|
Champions Tour Approves Modifications To Eligibility Effective In 2004 Contact Jeff Adams PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. / DEARBORN, Mich. (July 9, 2003) - The Champions Tour has approved changes to eligibility and the size of fields for open, full-field Champions Tour events, it was announced today by PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. The changes, effective beginning with the 2004 season are as follows: Starting fields will be 78 players (vs. 81 this year) 1. Top 30 available from Prior Year Money (vs. 31 this year) 2. Top 30 available from All-Time Money, not exempt in #1 (vs. 31 this year) 3. Top 4 available in PGA TOUR Career Victory Category (vs. 2 this year); Duration two years, ages 50 and 51 4. Top 7 available from National Qualifying Tournament (vs. 8 this year), plus 8 conditional spots (same as this year) 5. 2 from Open Qualifying (vs. 4 this year) 6. 5 Invited by Tournament (same as this year) as follows: "The new eligibility achieves the Policy Board's objective of creating more playing opportunities for past PGA TOUR champions while maintaining access for players who have achieved on other levels and are very capable of competing on the Champions Tour," said Commissioner Finchem. "Spectators and viewers at home are attracted to players whom they have come to know as a result of their PGA TOUR careers," said Champions Tour president Rick George. "As we continue to reach out to golf fans and promote our fan-friendly elements, it is important that these players are encouraged to compete on the Champions Tour. The Board feels these changes will enhance both the competition and marketability of the Champions Tour." |