Duel in the Desert tees off today

MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake Golf Club is hosting the Duel in the Desert golf tournament, beginning today and continuing Saturday.

Cindy Wilson, the club's director of marketing, said up to 132 players are expected for this year's event. Duel in the Desert began several years ago under the direction of the Grant County Economic Development Council.

Four-person teams will take part in a practice round beginning at noon on Friday. The tournament, which will be conducted in a best-ball format, gets underway Saturday at 11:30 a.m.

"It's a good solid tournament, lots of participation," Wilson said. "It usually fills up and there's no extra room for anyone."

Sponsorships ranging from $600 to $5,000 were required for entrance into the event. Entries for next year's event, Aug. 1-2, 2008, are already being accepted and can be obtained by calling 509-764-6579.

A junior clinic and barbecue took place Friday morning, with golf fanatic John Malay in attendance. Malay, who has been named Golf Nut of the Year by the Golf Nut Society and has played over 300 rounds in one year, will also be around for Saturday's activities.