by: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B, M.C.I.
Medicus Certified Instructor, The Golfing Machine Authorized Instructor
Augusta Golf Instruction
The Masters....there is no tournament and no place on earth quite like it. Welcome to Augusta, GA in April, when Spring presents Bobby Jones' masterpiece in all of its glory. For those of your lucky enough to gain admittance to those hallowed grounds here are some tips on finding your way.
Arrival
Gates open at 8:00 a.m. and close approximately 6:30 p.m. If you are an early riser, you can beat some of the traffic and join the dew sweepers. You can also get an unobstructed view of the course and pick your spot to sit if you prefer to stay in one place. If you prefer to follow a group, get a pairing sheet and track your favorite golfers from the first tee.
Parking
Lot 1 will now be available only to the media, members and players and service vehicles but the club has added more than 6,000 parking spaces along Berckman Road. From here you will need to enter by walking across the street to Gate 6A.
As a spectator
Following the guidelines set down by Bobby Jones, guests are expected to follow golf etiquette and obey all tournament rules and signs. Running, protesting, jeering and other ill-mannered activities are forbidden. You are expected to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. This is the year's first major, so don't be afraid to display your finest golf attire.
Cell phones, beepers, weapons, radios, walkie-talkies, coolers, etc. are not allowed at any time.
Cameras are only permitted during practice rounds. Bags and pockets are subject to inspection for security purposes.
There is a no autograph policy except for the parking lot side of the clubhouse.
You will find almost every convenience that you may need once inside the gates. ATM's, first aid, concessions, spectator guides and more are all provided. Don't forget sunscreen, you don't want to be miserable for the rest of the week because you spent 10 hours on the course and got burned.
Entrance
Once you enter the property just follow the paths and signs until you get to the security checkpoint. Once you get past security....paradise awaits. As you come in on the right you will see the huge Pro Shop, expect to stand in line for admittance but it's worth it. If you don't want to wait there are several other mini pro shops around the property. You can also wait until the end of the day, usually there is more than enough inventory unless you just want to get it now.
Go straight ahead for the golf course, up the hill and to the left for the practice area and club house. Take a peak at Magnolia Lane or sit on the bleachers at the driving range and watch the pro's warm up. Walk the course and enjoy a barbecue sandwich. Imagine sunshine, lush green grass perfectly manicured, flowers in bloom, a slight crosswind across the first fairway, and the unmistakable sound of impact between ball and club.....all provided for you.
Good food, a bag of tournament souvenirs, the scenery, the crowd roars..... this is the Masters...... this is golf's Nirvana.
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Great Info;)
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