The Masters : 10 Things - An Insiders Guide to The Masters.

Summary

The Masters Tournament, held annually at Augusta National, is a revered event with a rich history and numerous unique traditions. From patrons placing chairs around the 18th green to the secretive practice facilities, the Masters is shrouded in mystique. Little-known facts include the role of local Jeff Knox in playing with the first golfer out, the no-phone policy, and the challenges posed by Augusta's hilly course. The iconic Green Jacket isn't just for champions — it represents membership in Augusta National. The Masters is a test of skill, tradition, and unforgettable moments for both players and fans.

Takeaways

• 😀 Augusta National hosts a unique and prestigious golfing event, the Masters, which is played on the same course at the same time every year.
• 😀 Patrons arrive early at 8:00 a.m. to claim the best viewing spots around the 18th green, with no grandstands but just foldout chairs and courtesy to ensure fair access.
• 😀 The Masters driving range, used only during the tournament, includes a facility with its own observation stand and a split driving range to help players practice different shot types.
• 😀 The manufacturers’ tour trucks are located off-site, requiring players to walk across the busy Washington Road to fine-tune their equipment.
• 😀 When there is an uneven number of golfers making the cut, Augusta National’s reigning Club Champion plays alongside the last golfer, as seen with Jeff Knox challenging Rory McIlroy.
• 😀 The iconic Green Jacket is not only worn by Masters champions, but also by Augusta National members as part of their dress code, though only the chairman can speak on behalf of the club.
• 😀 The Masters features two popular drinks: the Arnold Palmer (iced tea and lemonade) and a cocktail called the Aelas (pink lemonade with vodka), both commonly consumed during the event.
• 😀 The collectible cups from the Masters serve as memorable souvenirs for patrons, who often keep them as keepsakes or use them in personal spaces like home bars.
• 😀 Phones are strictly prohibited at Augusta National, and cameras can only be used on practice days, ensuring that the event maintains its tradition and focus on the game.
• 😀 Official photos at Augusta National, like those in Founder Circle's flower bed, often require a wait of up to 45 minutes to an hour, as patrons patiently queue for their memories.

Q & A

What makes the Masters tournament unique compared to other sporting events?

The Masters stands out for its rich history, unique traditions, and the fact that it is played at the same course, Augusta National, year after year. This consistency contributes to its mystique and aura.

What is the process for securing the best seat at the Masters?

Patrons arrive at 8:00 a.m. to place their folding chairs around the 18th green. There are no grandstands at this finishing hole, only chairs that are left in place throughout the day with a name card reserved for the view.

What special feature does Augusta National's driving range have?

The driving range at Augusta National is unique because it has 18 acres beneath an iconic water tower, with a split by pine trees to allow players to practice fading and drawing shots as required around the course.

Why do manufacturers' tour trucks park off-site during the Masters?

Manufacturers' tour trucks are located off-site, across the busy Washington Road. This means players must walk back and forth if they need to fine-tune their equipment, often covering between 6 and 8 miles a day in the process.

Who plays with the first golfer when an uneven number of players make the cut?

When there is an uneven number of golfers making the cut, Augusta National’s reigning club champion, a local named Jeff Knox, plays alongside the first golfer out. He famously defeated Rory McIlroy, the golf superstar, by a shot.

What is the significance of the Green Jacket at the Masters?

The Green Jacket is not just for the Masters champion. It is the dress code for Augusta National’s members, and winning the Masters allows a player to join the club. However, the only Green Jacket-wearing member who can speak on behalf of Augusta National is the chairman.

What is the Arnold Palmer drink served at the Masters?

The Arnold Palmer is a popular drink at the Masters, made from iced tea and lemonade. There is also another drink named after Arnold Palmer, a cocktail made with pink lemonade and vodka, known as a 'Aelas.'

How do patrons use the collectible cups at Augusta National?

Patrons collect and reuse the Masters' cups as souvenirs. These cups often end up in homes, man caves, or bars, becoming a cherished piece of memorabilia.

Why are phones prohibited at the Masters?

Phones are prohibited at the Masters to preserve the purist nature of the event. Patrons and professionals must leave their phones at home, and cameras can only be used during practice days to maintain the event's etiquette and focus.

What is the process for getting an official photo at the Masters?

If you want an official photo at the Masters, particularly inside the flower bed at Founders Circle, be prepared for a long wait. The lines can last anywhere from 35 minutes to an hour, as these photos are highly coveted souvenirs.

What is unique about the elevation of Augusta National's golf course?

The elevation at Augusta National is a key challenge. The eighth hole climbs 61 feet, and the 10th hole slopes steeply by 116 feet. The elevated tee boxes make the course physically demanding, even for professional golfers.