The Masters Golf Tournament is a sporting event unlike any other. Generations of people have followed the excitement of the Masters Tournament, but very few have actually walked golf’s most hallowed grounds.
Tickets to the event are offered exclusively to members of a list that first closed in 1978 and reopened for a short period in 2000.
Excellent television coverage provides golf fans with a front-row seat, yet falls short of capturing the true atmosphere experienced when attending the event.
The Masters, like golf, is deeply rooted in tradition. Perhaps the most obvious example of this is the terminology unique to the tournament. For example, those who attend the Masters are referred to as patrons, not fans. Instead of tickets, the patrons are issued badges. The grass surrounding the fairway is not called the “rough,” instead it is referred to as the “second cut.”
Not only are patrons expected to use this language, but the requirement is also extended to television broadcasters. Announcers who fail to follow these guidelines have been removed in years past.
The Masters Tournament has a reputation of being the most spectator-friendly sporting event on the planet.
Upon arrival, patrons are allowed to park, free of charge, in one of many convenient parking lots surrounding the grounds. A security check, like that in any airport, ensures that no weapons or electronic devices are brought onto the property. Phones, cameras and other gadgets are strictly forbidden. Violation of this rule results in removal from the grounds and loss of credentials for future tournaments.
At first, such a rule can seem like an inconvenience, but this policy is vital in maintaining the relaxing atmosphere and traditional experience of the Masters.
Augusta National Golf Course is considered to be one of the best-kept golf courses in the world. The grass is the greenest you have ever seen, and the feel of it can best be described as a fine carpet. Dogwoods, pine trees and azaleas line each hole. Several water features add to the beauty of the grounds. A revitalizing fragrance of pine and fresh, ocean air could be smelled with every breath.
Every fairway is roped off, requiring patrons to strategically plan their movements around the course. With big name players such as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, a wall of people surrounded the entire length of a hole.
Several amenities are offered to patrons while they are on the course. Marble-tiled bathrooms with elegant bleached wood ceilings are scattered around the property. Each facility had several staff members who would help direct patrons to an available room and offer towels after patrons had washed your hands.
Concessions were also available at multiple locations around the course. Each offered a light fare of sandwiches and beverages. Gourmet turkey, barbeque beef and pimento cheese sandwiches are examples of just a few of the menu items that could be purchased for around a dollar. In fact, Augusta National is notorious for offering quality concessions at very reasonable prices.
Spectacular golf will always remain at the heart of the Masters experience. Exceptional performances by golf’s best create memories that last a lifetime.
The legends are paired against golfers who have yet to make a name for themselves, and results are never guaranteed.
In a world where uncertainties are being eliminated, the Masters provides an opportunity to see skill and chance in their
purest form.