With the lead up to the first major of the year, there are those in the media who like to take a bit of a swipe at The Masters, in particular it’s relevance with the weakest field, but also the par 3 event. So let me elaborate on why the Masters is so great.
The main Masters scoreboard beside the 1st fairway
Sure it isn’t the strongest field available compared to the other majors, but it certainly is the most anticipated. Such high anticipation and excitement might partially be due to it being the first major of the year, but I think it goes beyond this.
For a start:
a. It is played at the same course every year, so we know what to expect. There are no surprises. Being played at the same course every year, patrons and viewers can easily recall events from previous years. With the other majors the course has a rotation and won’t return usually for 5 or so years. On top of that the course is actually great
b. History of the tournament. Sure it is the youngest, but it has grown its own traditions. The champions dinner, par 3 tournament, skipping the ball over the pond on 16, Amen corner
c. The buy in from the public. This has become not just a major, but an exclusive event, which everyone wants to get into. They accept all the eccentricities of the event, but this is what sets it apart. Where else could you leave your chair in the one spot without it dissappearing?
d. Innovation from the tournament. This event has lead to many ideas which have been incorporated in other golf events, including the scoring system of under and over, painting the hole white to allow better viewing, using green rope holding back patrons allowing it to blend in with the background. Simple but yet effective
e. The Augusta National Golf Club itself. They have done an impeccable job in creating and promoting the event. With the growing advent of social media, the club has also allowed the public to see some behind the scenes aspects such as the Champions Dinner
As for the par 3 event, this is a great opportunity for the players to celebrate being at Augusta with their family, but also allowing the fans to get close and interact. I couldn’t imagine this being taken away. If a player finds it too distracting, they don’t enter. Simple solution.
So don’t be so negative with one of the greatest Major events about to start.
To see what its like to attend The Masters, have a look at my 2011 visit or to see the course in more detail.
