April 15, 2004

WINSTON-SALEM, NC — Brian Long believes he can make his mark at this St. Pete's Classic despite admitting he is not the player he once was. He has been showing signs of a recovery after a dismal couple of years.

"I was tearing my hair out up until about two years ago wondering what happened to my game and could I get it back," he said. "It took me a while to realize that I was never going to get it back. I couldn't be what I once was, that's that."

But he has not thrown in the towel completely. "I'm more mature, have more interests away from the golf course and don't have the time or desire I once did to devote to practicing," he said. "I still think I can be competitive, but I know my chances of winning this week are much longer than they used to be."

Brian is scheduled to play 72 holes tuneup tournament over the next few days at Tanglewood Park.  He is playing with Jamie Myers, Greg Garrett, Jason Watson, and brother Greg.  "It's all about respect," said Ruthie.  "I want to get some respect this weekend."