No, I am not the most seasoned Masters attendee, as a matter of fact I am probably one of the few patrons who has the opportunity to attend every year (for me since 2000) and have actually missed twice including last year. Sometimes things just don’t work out and work, family etc gets in the way of even the holiest of pilgrimages. Yes, I take the Masters for granted. Why you ask? As a member of The PGA of America, one of the perks we have is access to all golf tournaments including The Masters. Just be a member in good standing( paying your yearly dues is 75% of that battle) stand in line patiently at the proper gate and no complaining about the wait, say yes sir and yes ma’am to the gate attendees, think “Soup Nazi” online standards from Seinfeld, don’t breach that etiquette and your in the cathedral of golf. It’s not hard just don’t screw around, I’ve seen people get turned away for being wiseguys or noticeably intoxicated. But I digress on to things I know about The Masters that you may not know split into two different categories, those that have been and those that have not.
Things I know………………
Have not attended
The 10th hole is as steep as a ski slope, television does not do the elevation justice at Augusta.
Have attended
You have fallen on your ass at least once walking down the 10th hole at Augusta if you have been there more than 3 times.
Have not attended
You have a better chance of smuggling a bomb on airplane than getting a cell phone thru security at Augusta.
Have attended
There are several phone banks throughout the property where you can yak it up for free, including international calls. Nice touch
Have not attended
The concession prices for food and drink are the lowest in sports and comparable to any local fast food chain.
Have attended
There are’nt any napkins at the concession stands, can’t take a chance of any of that litter blowing around the property.
Have not attended
The bathroom between the 5th green and 6th tee is used by almost everybody playing and caddying, sorry not patrons! Tiger always stops there.
Have attended
The rope is always clear by that restroom and because of the pitch of the hill the players and caddies hug that rope as they walk by on the way to the 6th tee where everybody else is…………if you want to know what kind of deodorant Tiger is wearing, this is the spot for you, it’s that close.
Have not attended
Washington Road the main drag bordering Augusta National is as honky tonk as anyplace in America, but try finding a drink after 11pm and your options are severely limited.
Have attended
After walking up and down those steep slopes all day on the course , after a couple of drinks and dinner you are ready for bed. Lights out at 10pm is not unusual for even the biggest party animals.
Just a few tidbits for those in the know and those that want to know from a semi-seasoned attendee at Augusta National. We will have more to come in the next couple of weeks and I hope to see you between the 5th green and 6th tee with a knowing look on your face.
Cheers!
Bob Seganti, PGA
Go on a Myrtle Beach Golf Vacation!