Chris Smith Accepts Exemption to Play in HP Byron Nelson Championship
Irving, Texas, Apr. 15, 2010 – Chris Smith has officially accepted an exemption to play in the 2010 HP Byron Nelson Championship.
Chris has claimed five victories on the Nationwide Tour and also won the 2002 Buick Classic on the PGA TOUR. This will be his 10th appearance at the Nelson.
Chris’ wife, Beth, was killed in a car accident in June 2009, which brought his season to a halt. Their two children, Abigail and Cameron, were also critically injured.
In August 2009, the Beth Smith Memorial Golf Tournament was held in Indiana to raise money for the Smith family. The tournament consisted of 288 players and raised approximately $150,000.
In early 2010, a number of players on the TOUR also agreed to donate half of their Wednesday pro-am earnings to the foundations of Chris and Ken Green, who also lost a close family member in a car accident in 2009.
“We are proud to offer Chris Smith an exemption,” said tournament chairman George Conant. “As a tournament that donates all its net proceeds to children and families, Chris’ story struck a chord with all of us. We certainly hope that 2010 brings peace for the Smith family, and we are excited to see him compete in May.”
Rounding out the list of HP Byron Nelson exemptions are Chris DiMarco, Tim Herron, Colt Knost, Jordan Spieth and Matt Weibring.
The 2010 HP Byron Nelson Championship will be played May 17-23 at the TPC Four Seasons Resort and Club Las Colinas in Irving.
About the HP Byron Nelson Championship
The HP Byron Nelson Championship has been a premier event on the PGA TOUR since 1968. Dallas’ biggest sports attraction and most anticipated social event of the spring is also the most financially successful charity event on the PGA TOUR, raising over $112 million for children and families served by Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers. Join the great time in 2010 – May 17-23 at the Four Seasons Resort Las Colinas in Irving, Texas. A Great Time. A Greater Cause. Learn more at hpbnc.org.
