Golf

Family, captaincy, come first for Sutton

PONTE VEDRA BEACH -- Hal Sutton resigned from the PGA Tour policy board on Wednesday because his Ryder Cup captaincy and attention to his game and family were cutting into his time.

David Toms will replace Sutton on the nine-member board.

Sutton was named U.S. captain for the 2004 Ryder Cup and said it will take up much of his time and energy over the next 17 months.

"I don't feel I can do justice to that responsibility and also commit the time necessary to effectively represent the tour and the players as a member of the policy board," said Sutton, who has not won since the 2001 Houston Open.

"I also want to devote as much time as possible to my family and my golf game."

Sutton was serving his second term on the policy board, which includes four PGA Tour players, four businessmen and the PGA of America president.

Toms was chairman of the Players Advisory Council and was next in line to join the policy board. He will be replaced by Scott McCarron as PAC chairman.

WEST COAST CHAMPIONSHIP: Mary Ann Petrillo of Tierra Verde shot 2-over 74 for the first round lead at Palma Ciea. Kathy Hunt of Lutz, last year's winner, was tied with Clearwater's Mary Critchfield of the Bayou Club with 77. Today is the final round.

-- Times correspondent Dave Theall contributed to this report.

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