I have been exposed to golf most of my life. My most special men, my husband, son, father and brother love the game as do so many of my friends both male and female. I've tried it a couple of times and deduced that I have no talent for it and may be a little too ADD to chase a little ball around for five hours. I do, however, understand what all the fuss about and will sit down to watch it on TV.
I must admit my passion has intensified since Tiger came on the scene and my guys have been Phil fans for as many years. I've touched on before my extreme disappointment with Tiger and we all know why and my pride in Phil for holding his head high through difficult personal times.
Today I had the fabulous opportunity to attend the opening round of the 2010 Masters which will always be remembered as the one where Tiger came back. At this writing it is not known if he will pull off the grand prize. Of course, this is the heavily guarded, well mannered event of all time so there were no anti-Tiger jabs from the crowd. A plane with a banner that read "Tiger Practices Bootyism" flew over head.
This story is about the beauty of Augusta National. I am very disappointed that we were there and do not have a picture as proof. But, I do understand. So while it is all still fresh in my mind here are the wonderful things about this incredible event.
Augusta National Golf course is surrounded by businesses such as a CVS or a Fresh Market. You walk through the heavily guarded gates and are greeted by people who are entertaining and truly love their jobs. On the way there are hundreds trying to sell you something to commemorate your day. Once you finally enter it is like going into Shangra la. The course and surroundings are like the landscape architect's quest for a perfect resume.
When you attend any sporting event you expect to pay $4 for a bottle of water or a Diet Coke. You try to eat before going in as to not break the bank and actually buy food. Our lunch bill was $12 which included three sandwiches, (choices of tuna, egg salad, ham and cheese on rye and others made by local church groups), 2 bags of chips and 2 16 oz soft drinks. We could have gotten fruit, candy and ice cream at rock bottom prices. Bottles of water were a dollar.
Souvenirs were another matter as we spent $200 in this spot on $29 t-shirts, etc. How could you go to the Master's and not buy a souvenir? You have no pictures as cameras and cell phones are not allowed and you need something to show you were there. T-Shirts and golf hats go for $25+, beautiful neck Tye's were $69. Every thing there was high quality and expensive. Wanted the brass Christmas ornament of the clubhouse but it was $46. In retrospect, wish I had bought it.
I went into the bathrooms which were as clean as the ones I have at home. There might have been a slight wait but there was a woman there to guide you to the next available stall. Toilet paper, soap and paper towels, not a problem. The walls were made of stone tile. Porta Potties outside the gates accommodated two people, with TP and a sink to wash up. Again, with someone there to direct you to the next spot.
The beer flowed freely from about 9:30 am on. I never saw anyone drunk or unruly. Nor did I see sagging pants, tattoos, or extreme cleavage. The dress code is preppy, comfortable. And when is the last time you were anywhere for six hours that you didn't see someone use a cell phone?
I am honored that I was able to attended such a dignified event. Long live The Masters.
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