I was sorry to miss last week's program with Clayton Keck. I am sure it was both fun and informative. I have no first-hand notes to update with but here are some things I found on good ol' Google!
The Masters Tournament, which takes place at Augusta National Golf Club, is a respected golf event packed with tradition. It was started by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts back in 1934 and is known for its unique customs, like the green jacket for the champ and the Champions Dinner.
A bit of history:
Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts created the Masters to showcase golf. At first, it was called the Augusta National Invitation Tournament, but in 1939, they changed the name to the Masters.
Horton Smith was the first winner in 1934.
Even though it’s not labeled a championship for any specific title, the Masters is considered one of the four big golf tournaments, along with the U.S. Open, The Open (British Open), and the PGA Championship.
Some cool traditions of the Masters:
The famous green jacket is given to the winner, who gets to wear it for a year before returning it to the clubhouse.
There's a special dinner hosted by the previous year's champ, where past winners come together for a fun night. Past winners also start the tournament by hitting ceremonial tee shots.
During practice rounds, golfers try to skip balls across the pond on the par-3 16th hole.
Pimento Cheese Sandwiches are a local favorite and a must-try at the tournament.
There's a Par 3 Contest that happens on the Wednesday before the tournament, featuring nine holes.
Fans at the tournament are called patrons, which is a term the organizers use. Patrons can bring their own chairs and claim a spot to catch all the action, which adds to the unique vibe.
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