B.C. Open Winner Played Graphite Design International Shaft Models

Press Release

Posted 2006-07-26

Graphite Design International ("GDI") - maker of some of the most widely played graphite driver shaft models on the PGA TOUR - today announces the winner of the B.C. Open Presented by Turning Stone Resort used GDI shaft models in his driver and 3-wood, according to the Darrell Survey.

The winner claimed his second PGA TOUR victory with a 19-under-par total and final-round 64. Using GDI's YS Power 75 model in his driver, the winner averaged nearly 300 yards on his tee shots, positioning him to lead the field in birdies. He became the second consecutive TOUR winner using GDI models, joining last week's John Deere Classic champion. In all, four top-six finishers at the B.C. Open played GDI shaft models.

"We congratulate the B.C. Open winner on his outstanding performance, and we're proud that GDI shafts played a role in his victory," said Akio Karashima, CEO of GDI. "PGA TOUR winners and standouts consistently turn to GDI shafts to provide the ultimate in distance and accuracy - a combination that everyday golfers can achieve as well by putting GDI shafts in their clubs."

On the Japan Tour, GDI led the graphite shaft brand count with 181 shafts in play at the Sega Sammy Cup, 74 more than the nearest competitor.

Last year, GDI shafts were used by 18 winners on the PGA TOUR and 42 winners worldwide, helping them amass more than $75 million in earnings. They were also played by PGA TOUR leaders in Total Driving (distance plus accuracy), five of the top-10 players in Driving Accuracy Percentage, four of the top-10 money winners, and top-10 players in the World Golf Rankings.

On the Japan Tour, GDI shafts were victorious 16 times in 2005 and have been the most-played brand for a staggering 119 straight tournaments, an unprecedented streak dating back to 2002.