GOLF: CONNELL SAYS FAREWELL TO CAPE GIRARDEAU C.C. AFTER 20 YEARS

Opportunity knocked and presented an offer Cape Girardeau Country Club pro Jack Connell just couldn't refuse.

After 20 years on the job, Connell vacated his position on Friday to assume the role of director of golf at Prestwick Plantation, a 27-hole golf course currently under construction in Cape Girardeau.

Connell's emotions were a mixture of bogeys and birdies when contacted on Friday.

"I'm sorry to leave the people and friendships I've built up over 20 years," said Connell. "But I'm looking forward to a new challenge and exciting situation at Prestwick Plantation."

As director of golf, Connell will be concerning himself primarily with marketing activities such as enrolling memberships and keeping the public informed on the opening date.

Prestwick Plantation's first 18 holes is scheduled to open in the spring of 2002.

Connell described himself as feeling "kind of like a kid" as he watches Prestwick Plantation take shape. The course architect is Gary Nicklaus, the son of Jack Nicklaus, and course construction is being performed by Ryangolf.

Connell joined Cape Girardeau C.C. in November of 1980 after serving as the head golf pro at Egyptian Country Club in Mounds, Ill., for five years.

"This is the position most golf pros strive for as their careers go on," said Connell.

"We hate to lose him," said Mike Kohlfeld, the president of the Board of Governors at Cape Girardeau C.C. "Jack's a great guy. He's been a good pro and a friend to everyone. He's been here a long time and has been just like part of the landscape. But he has a chance to branch out and move up. You have to be happy for him."

Kohlfeld also said the timing was in keeping with the professional character Connell displayed. It allows the club plenty of time to find a new professional before next spring.

The search is currently under way.

"It's hard to replace someone like Jack," Kohlfeld said. "You just don't pick up a phone book."