By: Randy Dodson, Fairways Media

Provo, Utah - Kicking off the 67th annual Gold's Gym Provo Open, past champions Steve Schneiter, Todd Tanner and Tommy Johnson joined Hall of Fame coach Karl Tucker at the Reserve at East Bay golf course driving range for a golf clinic with the Utah County Boys and Girls Club.

About a dozen youth were taught swing fundamentals as part of the Provo Open's charity efforts with the Coach Karl Tucker Foundation. The tournament's charity proceeds go to introducing the game of golf to Utah County youth and establishing scholarships for the Utah Valley State College golf team.

"We are trying to maximize the talents of our local youth through opportunity, sportsmanship and education. The Gold's Gym Provo Open is a great avenue to expose these kids to the great game of golf. Each child will walk away today with the beginnings of a new talent which hopefully will serve them well the rest of their lives," said Karl Wurzbach, marketing director of the Daily Herald and executive director of the foundation.

The 67th Provo Open, one of Utah's oldest and most respected tournaments will have a new champion crowned next Saturday. Defending Champion and two-time winner, Steve Schneiter, now competes nationally on the Nationwide Tour and will miss this year's tournament. However, tournament officials are pleased with the entries for this year's contest.

"We are excited about this year's event and continuing the history of this tournament, said title sponsor and Gold's Gym CEO, Scott Felsted. "Many of the Provo Open past champions have gone on to wonderful things in golf through the years, including current PGA TOUR star Dean Wilson and Champions Tour professional Bruce Summerhays.

The 67th Gold's Gym Provo Open officially begins May 31st with the Division Two amateurs playing an 18-hole stroke play championship. Utah's top amateurs and professionals then begin their 54-hole contest on Thursday, June 1st. After a 36-hole cut the following day, the finalists will compete for the championship trophy on Saturday, June 3rd.

For more information on this year's tournament contact the East Bay clubhouse at (801) 373-6262. The amateur portion of the tournament is full and has a waiting list while there are still entry spots available in the professional division.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Utah Golf Hall of Famer, Karl Tucker and youth from the Utah County Boys and Girls Club marvel at Provo Open Defending Champion, Steve Schneiter's ball striking skill.

Utah County Boys and Girls Club See how it's Done