Classic in good shape

Envirocare Utah Classic executive director Evan Byers wasn't too fazed by Wednesday's announcement that Envirocare owner Khosrow Semnani had sold the radioactive-waste disposal company to a New York investment firm and a Utah businessman.

Byers said he didn't know if the new ownership would continue its association with the tournament, which is played in the late summer at Willow Creek Country Club. But he also doesn't seem worried.

"I think the tournament is healthier than it's ever been," Byers said. He said the tournament will have an exciting announcement next month that will bolster the event in the long term.

The PGA Nationwide Tour golf tournament had been on shaky ground for a couple of years until Envirocare of Utah became the title sponsor in June of 2003 by committing some $200,000 to the event. It renewed its sponsorship for this year's tournament.

The Utah Classic is already on next year's Nationwide Tour schedule with dates of Sept. 5-11. Last year the tournament was held in late August, which Byers had pushed for, but he's happy with next year's dates.

"I kind of like those dates better," Byers said. "It gives us a chance to get into the schools and do assemblies with the kids. I think it helps us grow our fan base."

The Utah Classic was first held in 1990 as part of the Ben Hogan Tour. It lasted until 1996 and was taken off the schedule before coming back in 1999 as part of the Nike Tour. Byers took over the tournament the next year and struggled with getting a title sponsorship before securing Envirocare in time for the 2003 event.

Envirocare was the title sponsor again for the 2004 tournament, but was committed only on a year-to-year basis, according to Byers.

---

E-mail: sor@desnews.com