Parry decides to join Asian Tour

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ORLANDO, Florida -- Australian Craig Parry will switch from playing golf tournaments in the United States to Asia next year and he is willing to take a pay cut to do it.

"It's a decision more about lifestyle than prize money," Parry said at the Funai Classic, where he shot a modest three-over 75 in the first round on Thursday.

The 40-year-old Parry, who lives in Sydney, said he was giving up his membership after 15 years on the PGA Tour, in pursuit of a better quality of life.

"I'm a little sick of the jet lag," said Parry, who wants to be closer to his Sydney home. "It's about getting to a place and feeling healthy and ready to play.

"I've had a good time in the States but it's time to go home. I'm looking forward to playing in Japan.

" I'll be able to leave home Tuesday night, arrive Wednesday morning and be ready to play on Thursday."

Parry's hand has been forced because his 10-year exemption for winning the 1997 Japan Open runs out next year, so he could not afford to wait any longer.

Also, his exempt status on the PGA Tour expires this year, and he has no interest in attending qualifying school.

"I've always said if I'm not good enough to make the top 125 (on the money list) in 15 events, I shouldn't be here," he said.

Parry has earned more than $8 million in prize money on the PGA Tour, along with two victories, both significant for different reasons.

Stellar field

He beat a stellar field including Tiger Woods to win the 2002 World Golf Championships NEC Invitational, and also triumphed at the 2004 Ford Championship at Doral, where he holed out with a six-iron from 176 yards at the first extra hole to beat Scott Verplank.

"I played better at the NEC, but to finish like I did at Doral, that would be the highlight of my career," he said.

His biggest disappointment was the 1992 Masters, where he led by one stroke into the final round, only to fade to finish tied 13th as Fred Couples powered to victory.

Parry still plans to play occasionally in the United States whenever he is exempt for the majors and other big tournaments, and he will keep his Orlando home for the foreseeable future, renting it out to another Australian, Nick O'Hern.

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