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Courtesy of Naples Daily News
Naples, Fla. - Naples resident Rocco Mediate is the first commitment for this year's Franklin Templeton Shootout.
The tournament is Dec. 10-14 at Tiburón Golf Club and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. This marks the 20th anniversary of The Franklin Templeton Shootout.
"What a great way to kick off The Franklin Templeton Shootout season with the announcement that one of Naples' own will be joining us," tournament director Taylor Ives said. "Given Rocco's ties to the community and successful 2008 season, I am certain that he will be a popular choice with our galleries in December."
 Mediate, partnered with Lee Janzen, captured the 2002 Shootout title with a birdie on the 54th hole. |
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Mediate and Tiger Woods captured the attention of millions during their play in the U.S. Open in June with a head-to-head battle that will long be remembered as one of golf's greatest moments. Following a Monday playoff, Woods emerged victorious after 19 holes were needed to decide a champion.
Mediate's outgoing personality endeared him to fans, and his popularity soared after battling Woods.
Mediate partnered with former college teammate Lee Janzen to win the 2002 Franklin Templeton Shootout at Tiburón. This December's Shootout will be Mediate's fifth.
Host Greg Norman will be in Naples on Oct. 13 to announce many of the 24 players who will be a part of the 12-team field looking to challenge defending champions Woody Austin and Mark Calcavecchia.
A Taste of WCI ticket package is currently on sale.
For the fifth straight year, golf fans have the opportunity to purchase this special package for $110. It includes one weekly grounds ticket and more than 50 golf vouchers allowing play on 12 championship courses for cart fee only. For more information, visit www.thesharkshootout.com or call 888-66-SHARK or 239-254-9770 to reserve.
The week of the Shootout also will include a CEO Golf Challenge on Tuesday, Dec. 9. The top two performers will accompany Norman to the pro-am pairings party and play in the two pro-am rounds Dec. 10-11.
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