Brantford, ON (My Sportsbook) - The Nationwide Tour combined with NHL great Wayne Gretzky to form a new event for the 2008 schedule, the Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic.

The event will be contested at The Georgian Bay Club and the Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay from June 26-29.

"The Ford Wayne Gretzky Classic is a terrific addition to the Nationwide Tour schedule," said Nationwide Tour President Bill Calfee. "It is exciting to have Canada's premiere sports legend partnering with the tour. Golf fans of Canada will get to watch PGA Tour stars of the future and have the unique opportunity to get close to Wayne and the many celebrities who will be participating."

The event will feature 160 players teaming with amateurs and celebrities over the first two rounds. The teams will rotate over the two courses for the first two days before the top 10 teams move on to the weekend where the final two rounds will take place at The Georgian Bay Club.

"I have always had tremendous respect for the Nationwide Tour and the platform it provides for aspiring golfers," Gretzky stated. "I am thrilled to host an event that will recognize the hard work and dedication these players put in week after week on tour."