So finally, you have made your way to the Masters and it’s a first-time experience for you. While you eagerly anticipate your first step out onto the precisely manicured grounds of Augusta National to watch the Masters tournament, this can also be a quite intimidating time for you, too.
As you may have seen while watching this featured tournament on television, you are expected to behave in a particular manner while watching the top golfers in the world play up-close, right in front of you. It can be quite a daunting task, trying to keep all of that excitement and anticipation inside.
With the exception of native birds, twittering and soaring overhead, everything—and everyone else— displays a quite reserved attitude. Conversations are at whisper level and body language is staunchly conservative. Things are eerily similar to that of being at a First Sunday church service during communion. First, you will notice that all of the caddies are dressed in their white regalia and, second, many of the lady spectators on the course, well, they’re outfitted in their ‘Sunday best’, complete with matching hats, socks and shoes…there’s also plenty of silent praying going on.
With your credentials (i.e. your tickets) in hand here is What TO and What NOT TO do to have a grand time at the Masters:
1. CELL PHONE ETIQUETTE
On site at the Masters there is absolutely no tolerance for cell phones. So, be sure to leave your phone in your hotel room. This is the Masters and things are done differently here. Other Tour tournaments will permit such behavior, but not here. Best way to stay aware of the score is to view the mechanical scoreboards.
2. SEATING ARRANGEMENTS
At Augusta National there is an orderly way to do things (we cannot say this enough). There are particular spaces for fans and supporters with chairs, and, there are special areas that are roped off. Many ticket holders arrive bright and early in the mornings to ‘claim’ their spots. So, when you arrive at each hole do not be surprised to see lots of the best spaces already taken up with chairs and seated guests, because, they’ve been there quite a while. Over at the 12th tee one of the best areas at the Masters to view is just behind these bleachers. Over here you have a straight line of sight to see the 11th green, the part-3 12th and a whole lot of the par-5 13th, also called the “Amen Corner”.
3. NO GREEN BLAZER or DENIM
When you’re getting dressed, you will not want to wear a green blazer or denim. The green blazers are reserved for Augusta National members and for past Masters champions. Steer clear of causing any misunderstanding onsite by not wearing these garments. Should you wish to wear a blazer, then just pick something of another color or plaid—it always works.
4. CASH, CREDIT or DEBIT for SHOPPING
It’s all okay here, pay with cash, credit or debit card—and there is plenty of good stuff to bring back home. You’ll find an array of souvenirs that are either printed, engraved, embossed, embroidered, screened, or otherwise, that display the prestigious Master’s logo for patrons to purchase to show off their Masters experience to the world. The memorabilia here ain’t cheap, but some reasonably priced golf caps, visors, shot glasses, ball markers, and a few other items, help balance out the lower end of things.
5. CIGAR SMOKING
If you’re a cigar aficionado then this is heaven. On the grounds at the Masters you’ll witness just about everyone around you enjoying a variety of cigars. Golf legends have walked this course while chomping on big, rolled cigars and the tradition is still very much alive today. So, bust out your best cigars and bring them along.
6. SAVOR THE FOOD
At Augusta National you’ll need a full tank of energy to keep up with things. Among the food choices is the very popular mini moon pie. Chocolate covered outside, it’s filled with yummy white marshmallow and satisfies your sweet tooth. You’ll also find a variety of affordable sandwiches, potato chips, peanuts, trail mixes, beverages and other snacks to keep you energized.
7. WATCH THE CLOCK
You won’t want to miss a beat on things at the Masters, so be sure to set your clock to wake up early and arrive there. That overpriced hotel room and rental car are just to help you enjoy your overall experience. Don’t sleep in like you’re on vacation, or something. Washington Road, leading to the tournament, is packed full of vendors, food establishments and other terrific stops. So, get up early, inhale deeply, and get ready for a long day. Prepare to wind down late at night—just before the morning rooster crows, I suggest. Because being at the Masters is what it’s all about.
8. NO SHOUTING
This is the Masters and you must watch your manners. So, please, no shouting, yelping, whistling or other wildly expressive behavior. A simple, graceful clapping with your hands following a good golf shot is the proper response. However, (and this is a big however) should an awesome and impressive golf shot be made that defies reality, you may react appropriately and scream your lungs out! Think about Tiger’s shot a few years back….
9. PLEASE SIGN THIS…
Okay, we’re all kids at heart when at the Masters, right? It’s the top of the world for the greatest players in golf and they are all there. But, please, ladies and gentlemen, if you’ve passed the quarter-century mark (age 25) do not pester the players for an autograph….Let the young people indulge here.
10. EXPLORE THE AREA
Augusta is a fanciful city with much to see and do. Many recall it as the hometown of the late R&B entertainer James Brown. The Brown family still lives in the area and are often seen out and about. Take in some of the delightful pleasures of Augusta by visiting the Historic Lucy Craft Laney Museum that’s packed with artifacts that celebrate the African American community. Play in the Augusta GolfFEST tournament hosted by the African American Golfer’s Digest on April 10 at Metropolitan Golf Course. Take in a round of golf at River City golf course (just North of Augusta), or play in Aiken (S.C.) Golf Club (20 minutes away). The magnolias are blooming everywhere in Augusta during Masters Week, so make the most of it.
