EAST MOLINE, Illinois – Feb. 7, 2005 – Zach Johnson, the Cedar Rapids (Ia.) native who grew up to be a budding star on the PGA Tour, has joined the John Deere Classic board of directors.

Johnson attended his first official board meeting via teleconference Jan. 25 and immediately made valuable contributions, according to John Deere Classic tournament director Clair Peterson.

"Zach was invited to become a member of the John Deere Classic executive board in order to make sure that the players' voices are heard as we continually try to think of ways to improve the tournament," Peterson said. "With Zach having grown up in Cedar Rapids and with his affection for and loyalty to the John Deere Classic, it made sense for us to invite to join the board. He is really going to help us."

Johnson, who will turn 29 on Feb. 25, plans to call in to the monthly board meetings where he will participate via teleconference with eight other executive committee members, who include former current and future volunteer chairmen and a representative of title sponsor John Deere. Like all board members, Johnson will serve a three-year term, which could be extended.

"It is truly an honor to be a member of the John Deere Classic board of directors," Johnson said. "I hope to be able to bring a player's perspective to the board's goal of continuing to improve what is already a great event. I appreciate everyone working around my [playing] schedule and I look forward to participating in meetings every month."

Now in his second year on the PGA Tour, Johnson recently was named by Golf Magazine one of "Five Young Americans To Watch" this season. As a rookie, Johnson won the Bell South Classic, made the cut in 24 of the 30 tournaments he entered, had five top 10 finishes - including a T-10 at the prestigious World Golf Championship event in Ireland - and earned $2.4 million in official tournament winnings. He currently is ranked No. 48 in the Official World Golf Rankings.

A product of Drake University in Des Moines, Johnson studied business management and marketing as an undergraduate. He recently was named to the PGA Tour's Player Advisory Council, which represents players' interests in discussions with Tour executives.

Johnson turned professional in 1998. In 2003, he earned Nationwide Tour Player of the Year honors after making the cut in 19 of 20 events - including the last 17 straight - and finishing first on the money list with a Nationwide Tour record $494,882.

Contact:
Barry Cronin
Cronin Communications, Inc.
847-698-1801