(SAN DIEGO, California) – Riding the success of its popular YS-6 – the most-played driver shaft model on the PGA TOUR over the past two years -- Graphite Design International (“GDI”) today announces the availability of its premium, YS Hybrid+ graphite shaft series.

Features and Benefits

Mid-kickpoint offered in three flexes: R, S, X Weight ranges from 84.5 to 87 grams Low torque (2.6) with five-inch .370 parallel tips that fit seamlessly into the majority of OEM clubheads and allow maximum fitting options Proven YS series technology and constructed of GDI’s proprietary Ultra-High Modulus Materials MSRP $105

The YS Hybrid+ series is the second line of hybrid shafts introduced in U.S. by GDI this year. The company’s Tour AD Hybrid Shaft series, unveiled in April, met with immediate Tour and consumer approval and has since gone on to become one of the most popular hybrid shafts available in the U.S. and Japan. The YS Hybrid+ series draws upon the same advanced technological elements and high performance characteristics that have made GDI’s YS series, and particularly its YS-6 model, so popular with professional, amateur and recreational golfers.

“We are excited to add the YS Hybrid+ series to our growing family of utility club shafts,” says Akio Karashima, President of GDI. “The popularity of hybrids and utility clubs has grown exponentially over the past five years, and GDI continues to respond with high performance options that enable golfers of all skill levels to realize the full potential of their hybrid clubs.”

The YS Hybrid+ series and Tour AD Hybrid series are part of GDI’s recently introduced Tour AD family of shafts, which also includes the I-65, W-60 and W-70 graphite models for fairway woods and drivers. Tour AD has quickly assumed a position as the company’s flagship shaft line and serves as the umbrella brand for GDI’s YS, YS+ and YS Power series, as well as its Tour GAT 75, GAT, Purple Ice, and PM702 and PM902 models.

Further validating its mantra of “Ultimate Performance, Proven on Tour,” GDI is off to a fast start in 2005, capturing nine manufacturer counts for graphite shafts in fairway woods and drivers on the PGA TOUR, appearing in the fairway woods and drivers of 21 winners worldwide, and helping the world’s best players amass over $32 million in earnings.

The hot beginning to the new season builds upon the success of 2004 -- a banner year in which TOUR players earned over $60 million using GDI shafts. Putting GDI shafts in play each week were the winners of the 2004 Masters and PGA Championship, the No. 1 player in the World Golf Rankings, two of the top three money leaders on the PGA TOUR, two of the three winningest, active players, and the leader in driving accuracy percentage. On the Japan PGA TOUR, GDI has won the manufacturer and brand counts for a staggering 85 consecutive events dating back to 2002.

GDI’s supremacy validates that Tour players – with their careers and livelihoods on the lines – prefer GDI shafts because their technologically-advanced design and construction help them realize greater distance and accuracy from their golf shots.

About Graphite Design International

GDI, established in Japan in 1989 and in the U.S. in 1997, is one of the world's three largest golf-club shaft manufacturers. GDI made its mark manufacturing high-performance shafts for most of golf's major OEMs worldwide, including the top four companies by sales volume.

GDI's trademarks are revolutionary technology, design and sourcing the most advanced materials so GDI shafts are of highest quality and performance. GDI shafts specifically promote “Accuracy and Distance.”

The core components of the company’s “AD” logo, these key competitive advantages help professionals and amateurs optimize their game after switching to GDI shafts. The company’s popular YS series, new PM (Prototype Model) shafts, and new Tour AD shafts are taking this message to the next level.

For more information about GDI: 888.707.6132, info@gdintl.com , www.gdintl.com .

CONTACT:
Shane Sharp
Buffalo Communications
803.547.2118
ssharp@billycaspergolf.com