Its Moving Day at the Masters

On The Course at the Start

This is the day when the players are doing their best to move up the leaderboard and to be in, or near, contention on Sunday. Keep in mind, Rory McIlroy starts the day with a six-shot lead; however, golf has a way of rearing its ugly head at the most inopportune times, and the other players are not just going to hand him the title. I predict a fight and some drama. After all, this is Augusta, and it historically produces gut-wrenching drama on the weekend. Why should this weekend be any different? By the way, here is what is at stake monetarily.

This is the prize money by order of finish: CLICK HERE

Curtis and Othello

As usual, I go on my morning walkabout to get the vibe of the crowd and to make some new friends. So, I station myself at the 150 mark on hole 1 and just observe the crowd. After a while, I turn around to look in the other direction, and this young man yells out my name. Only then do I realize that I have been standing near Othello and Curtis from Omaha. It turns out they had connections for tickets and made the trip for their first visit to the Masters.

We talked about viewing and walking strategy to maximize their time at the course. I have taken the liberty of providing some background on these young men from Omaha—where I also live.

Curtis Marshall

Involved in a marketing company, he was Nebraska’s Mr. Basketball of 1991. Curtis is the fifth-leading scorer in Class A history and was Nebraska’s Gatorade Circle of Champions Player of the Year. He accepted a scholarship from North Carolina State, where he started for the Wolfpack his last three years, surpassing the 1,000-point mark and finishing in the school’s top ten in assists and three-point baskets. Curtis also played professionally in Germany.

Othello Meadows

Managing Director, Places at Blue Meridian Partners, and former President and CEO of Seventy Five North, a nonprofit organization proudly rooted in the historic Highlander neighborhood of North Omaha, one of the city’s oldest communities. Since its founding in 2011, it has been dedicated to working to overcome the impacts of redlining and disinvestment. It is a member of the Purpose-Built Community Network, a national coalition of communities driving neighborhood revitalization. Warren Buffett, also an Omahan, was a major investor in this project. My understanding is that Mr. Buffett is a member of Augusta National.

GOLF IS THE ULTIMATE NETWORKING TOOL

Keita and Rad

Keita Cline is in financial services  from Florida and Rad Burns is a firefighter  from Bozeman, Montana. They are also first-time attendees to the Masters and was soaking it up watching players in the putting area warm up before their tee time. They also obtained tickets from “A Friend”.  I asked for their description of the course and the experience. Their responses, Surreal, Meticulous ,Traditional, Etiquette. Their advice was to take in as much as you can.

Even Martha Stewart is in the house

On The Course at the End of the Day

As I stated yesterday, either the field catches Rory or he comes back. Today was little of both. He shot a 1 over 73 to give his fellow competitors an opportunity. So, I am guessing that the winner will be one of these 7 players

• Rory and Cameron Young are tied for the lead
• Sam Burns is just 1 back
• Shane Lowry is 2 back
• Jason Day and Justin Rose are 3 back
• Scottie Schefffler is 4 back

Rory was scheduled to conduct a press conference this evening. I and others went to the interview room ready to ask a few questions only to be informed that he would not be coming. Instead,  he headed to the practice area to work on some mechanics. He is doing what he thinks needs to be done to  get ready for this dogfight tomorrow. Will it be enough? Tune in tomorrow.

Masters Hats of the Day

Heck of a day today. Tommorow is it, someone will be the 90^th Masters Champion. Who are you picking?      
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Special Thanks to the sponsors of this report who are supporting the magazine’s efforts in covering the activities at the  Augusta National Golf Course. DECISIVE MEDIA, EBONY GREENS, TOMMY BURNS GOLF CHALLENGE COINS, LLC

MASTERS DAILY REPORT SPONSORED BY:

It’s Friday, and I have so many thoughts running through my mind, so today will be a series of brief descriptions of my observations on and off the course.

Many players who had high hopes will be going home or heading to the next tournament after the end of play today.

Gary Woodland

I really really, really want to see Gary Woodland do well. He is so courageous and has been through so much. My admiration for him increases with every stroke. Woodland suffers from severe anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, having endured a series of personal trials and tragedies, including a brain lesion that was affecting his mental health. Despite having the growth removed in 2023, he still feels uneasy in crowds, leading him to keep a security detail on the course since he worries that somebody might try to hurt him.

I also like Xander Schauffele, Jason Day, and Justin Rose too. I actually interviewed Jason when he was playing on the Nationwide Tour now Korn Ferry Tour in Omaha, NE.

Miscellaneous

How will Rory do today? I asked him the following question yesterday: What will you focus on tomorrow?

RORY McILROY: “Getting the ball in the fairway a little bit more different, I think would be a good thing. I’m going to be playing later in the day when the greens are at their fastest and firmest. So again, just being very aware of hole locations and making sure that I’m trying to put the ball in the right spots on the greens.”

Are you folks even reading what I am writing ? I hope so because I am writing for you.
Can I stay away from the world’s best golf gift shop?

My Blessings

I am watching golf and being fed every day and yet there is so much strife, famine and hurt in the world. How blessed I am to do this work.

Who will I meet today and hopefully impact their life in some small way.

Here are the some of our people I met today. They all want to remain anonymous.

• Shuttle Driver – Brother from Indianapolis who is an attorney
• Spectator – Husband works in the Clubhouse
• Couple from Boston – First Time attendees received tickets from “A Friend”
• Couple from Augusta –  Educators, one had worked at Augusta National

KEVIN HART

Here is some addional information on Kevin Hart

Introducing my new caddie 🤝 pic.twitter.com/8OtBFH04LA

— Bryson DeChambeau (@brysondech) April 8, 2026

https://x.com/espn/status/2041966017606295877

The Crowd

I stand by my crowd estimate of 40,000 and add that maybe 1% yes 1% is African American

Masters Workforce

Workers are recruited locally and  nationally , apply for the  jobs, hired and come here to work just for Masters week. Many are  housed in motels and hotels in neighboring communities and  are shuttled here daily. I’m talking hundreds or workers

Rory

Rory McIlroy set a record today for the largest 36-hole lead in Masters history. He shot a sizzling 65 and is 6 shots clear in the lead over Sam Burns. In one stretch he had 6 birdies in 7 holes. I attended Rory’s  press conference this afternoon. I always find him to be very candid and honest. You can read the full comments here.  https://asaptext.com/asap_media/media/1079/1207/transcripts/166434.pdf

THE CUT

 54 players, including competitors from 15 different countries, made the 36-hole cut from a starting field of 91.      The cut fell at four-over-par 148. Notables missing the cut  including former Masters champions Bubba Watson, Mike Weir. Vjay Singh, Fred Couples, Jose Maria Olazabal and 2-time U S Open Champion, Bryson DeChambeau.

  The hats of the Masters

Now that half the field is gone, the question is “Will Rory add to his lead, will he loose it?”

I will be on the course tomorrow to watch him pull further away or as they say come back to the field. Of course, someone else can get hot and run him down for a Sunday showdown. I will see you tomorrow. Send  me your comments on the daily reports , [email protected] I want to know your thoughts. If your comment is selected you will a Masters cap. Please support the sponsors of the daily articles.

Once again thanks to my sponsors please support them. See you tomorrow.

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Special Thanks to the sponsors of this report who are supporting the magazine’s efforts in covering the activities at the  Augusta National Golf Course. DECISIVE MEDIA, EBONY GREENS, TOMMY BURNS GOLF CHALLENGE COINS, LLC

MASTERS DAILY REPORT SPONSORED BY:

The 2026 edition of The Masters Tournament once again showcased not only elite competition at Augusta National Golf Club, but also one of the most lucrative purses in the game. With a total prize fund of $22.5 million, the Masters continues to reflect the growth of professional golf while maintaining its tradition-rich identity.

Record Purse and Winner’s Share

At the top of the 2026 payout structure, champion Rory McIlroy earned a staggering $4.5 million, reinforcing how dramatically prize money has increased in recent years. The runner-up collected $2.43 million, while third place earned $1.53 million, with payouts steadily decreasing through the field.

Even players finishing outside the top 10 received substantial rewards, with 10th place earning $607,500. Those finishing between 20th and 30th place still took home six-figure checks, highlighting the depth of financial opportunity at Augusta.

Players who made the cut but finished outside the top 50 received payouts starting at $55,350, while professionals who did not qualify for the final 36 holes were awarded $25,000—a notable figure that reflects the prestige and financial strength of the event.

Full Payout Snapshot

• 1st: $4,500,000
• 2nd: $2,430,000
• 3rd: $1,530,000
• 5th: $900,000
• 10th: $607,500
• 20th: $292,500
• 30th: $153,000
• 40th: $96,750
• 50th: $56,700

This tiered structure ensures that nearly every professional in the field benefits financially, even if they are not in contention on Sunday.

A Look Back at Masters Prize Money History

The Masters purse has evolved dramatically since the tournament’s inception in 1934. In its early years, the total prize fund was modest by today’s standards, with the winner earning just a few thousand dollars. For example, when Sam Snead won in 1949, his prize was $2,500.

By comparison, legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer competed during an era when prize money was steadily increasing but still far from today’s levels. The financial landscape changed significantly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, especially during the dominance of Tiger Woods, when television rights, sponsorships, and global interest fueled exponential growth.

In 2001, the total purse was just over $5 million. By 2020, it had climbed past $11 million. The 2026 figure of $22.5 million represents more than a fourfold increase in just 25 years.

Tidbits and Traditions

Despite the rising prize money, the Masters remains unique among golf’s major championships. Unlike other tournaments, it is run by a private club, allowing Augusta National Golf Club to maintain strict control over its operations, traditions, and financial structure.

Interestingly, amateurs in the field do not receive prize money, even if they make the cut—a longstanding tradition that preserves the spirit of amateur competition at Augusta.

Another notable detail: while the financial rewards are significant, many players still regard the Green Jacket and lifetime invitation as more valuable than the paycheck itself. Winning the Masters secures a place in golf history, along with an annual return to Augusta as part of an exclusive group of champions.

The Bigger Picture

The 2026 Masters prize breakdown reflects both the growth of the sport and the enduring prestige of the tournament. While the numbers continue to rise, the essence of the Masters remains unchanged—a blend of history, competition, and tradition that transcends dollars and cents.

From the modest payouts of the 1930s to today’s multimillion-dollar rewards, the Masters has evolved into one of the most financially rewarding and culturally significant events in sports. And in 2026, that legacy continued—one check, one champion, and one Green Jacket at a time.

The 90^th Masters  begun today but not without a bit more of Masters ceremony and tradition – the honorary starters

Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Gary Player were the 2026 honorary starters. They are a well accomplished group . Here are some statistics for you that make the point

• 140 combined Masters appearances
• 11 Masters wins
• Jack has won 6 times
• Tom has won twice
• Gary has won 3 times

                                      MASTERS WINS BY YEAR

Tom Watson	1977	1981
Gary Player	1961	1974	1978
Jack Nicklaus	1963	1965	1966	1972	1975	1986

Oh, hold on there is more to their respective credentials. Look at their individual and combined professional wins.

NAME	TOTAL PROFESSIONAL WINS	TOTAL MAJOR WINS
TOM WATSON	78	8
GARY PLAYER	160	9
JACK NICKLAUS	126	18
TOTAL	364	35

Honorary Starters and Legendary Masters champions, Mr. Jack Nicklaus, Mr. Gary Player,
and Mr. Tom Watson.

UPDATE ON THE PLAYERS IN THE FIELD

There are 108 invitees and a starting field of 91players for the 2026 Masters. There are 22 first-time players, consisting of six amateurs and 16 professionals. On the first two days of play, each amateur is paired in a group with a Masters champion. In addition, 39 Honorary Non-Participating Invitees are expected in attendance.

My On Course Meetings

Cynthia and Natasha

Cynthia Austin of Aurora, Colorado, is retired from Ford Motor Company and is a member of the Greenseekers Golf Club. She and her friend Natasha Parks, who is from San Francisco, is retired from the San Francisco Fire Department and is a member of Sistas on the Links, were kind enough to spend a few moments with me. This is their first trip to the Masters. They secured their tickets through “a friend” and had specific players they planned to watch, in addition to visiting Amen Corner.

When I asked their opinion about the state of Blacks in golf, their response was, “We were on the up, but it seems like now we’re stuck.” I asked them to clarify, which they did by saying Tiger Woods brought much attention to the game, but since he stepped away, they don’t sense the same focus and attention. You be the judge.

The Greenseekers Golf Club, founded in the 1990s by a dedicated group of African American women, embodies the spirit of inclusivity and passion for the game. Established to increase opportunities for women in golf, the club has since flourished into a thriving and diverse community of golfers in Aurora, Colorado. It is one of 30 clubs sanctioned by the Western States Golf Association (WSGA). For more information visit Green https://www.cogreenseekers.com/about.

Sistas On The Links

Sistas On The Links (SOTL) stands as one of California’s oldest and largest African American women’s golf clubs, proudly uniting over 130 adult and 25+ youth members since our founding in 2008. We are more than a golf club—we are a supportive, inclusive sisterhood dedicated to introducing Black women and girls to the beautiful game of golf while creating a safe, accepting space where meaningful relationships flourish and shared experiences empower every member to thrive both on and off the course. For more information on Sistas On The Green visit https://www.sistasonthelinks.org/blank-1

Ryan Bedgood

While standing in line for my third trip to the gift shop (I will explain later), I struck up a conversation with the man in front of me after noticing the patron badge he had pinned to his cap. The badge is from 1986, the year of Jack Nicklaus’ last win here. He told me that his grandparents had been ticket holders since 1957, and now he receives them. He went on to tell me that his grandparents are actually buried right behind Amen Corner on a parcel of land belonging to the Augusta Country Club. Now, I cannot verify his story, but I do believe him. Folks, I can’t make this up!!

The Adams Family

Sandra Page Adams is originally from Sandersville, GA, but moved to Augusta. She is a 1982 magna cum laude graduate of Paine College, located in Augusta, where she majored in business and accounting. She retired from the Internal Revenue Service and is enjoying life with her husband, Eric.

She and her daughter, Erica Adams, who graduated from Spelman in 2006 and is an HR/compensation executive, were just taking in the ambience, as this was their first time, as well as Sandra’s birthday. They received tickets from “a friend.”

She summed up their day with a quote from Philippians 4:13, a popular Bible verse stating, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” You know they are also going to see Amen Corner.

Many players will need to say that  same prayer before the tournament is over.

The Gift Shop

OK, I made my third, yes, third—and hopefully last—trip to the gift shop today. The good news is that it was only a 15-minute wait. The bad news is that more people in the gift shop know my name now.

So, I have an offer for you, readers. Please send your comments about my Masters series. State what you like or dislike. Send them to me at [email protected]. On Sunday, I will select the best comment and share it with everyone. The person selected will receive a free Masters cap—OK, I am going to the gift shop for a fourth time.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

Rory is making an early statement that he would like to keep his  green jacket. He is leading the tournament at 5 under tied with  Sam Burns. As usual, Scottie Scheffler is just a few strokes back. No one is going to run away from the field. I expect some serious fireworks tomorrow.

Full results can be viewed herehttps://www.masters.com/en_US/scores/index.html

THE NO PHONE POLICY HERE IS SERIOUS

If you are lucky enough to receive a ticket to the Masters, I highly suggest you follow the rules. NO PHONES really means NO PHONES.  Read further and you will see why. Former professional, Mark Calcavecchia was booted from 90th Masters in Augusta for using a phone. The full article is here: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2026/04/08/mark-calcavecchia-ejected-masters-phone-use-augusta/89523955007/

Once again thanks to my sponsors please support them. See you tomorrow .

Support My Sponsors

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Special Thanks to the sponsors of this report who are supporting the magazine’s efforts in covering the activities at the  Augusta National Golf Course. DECISIVE MEDIA, EBONY GREENS, TOMMY BURNS GOLF CHALLENGE COINS, LLC

MASTERS DAILY REPORT SPONSORED BY:

If you thought the most entertaining thing at the Masters Par 3 Contest would be the golf… think again.

Enter Kevin Hart—yes, that Kevin Hart—looping as a caddie for Bryson DeChambeau. Because apparently Augusta decided, “You know what this needs? More cardio… from laughing.”

Picture this: DeChambeau, the scientist of golf, calculating wind speed, slope, and gravitational pull like he’s launching a NASA mission. Meanwhile, Kevin Hart is over there looking at the yardage book like it’s written in ancient hieroglyphics, probably asking, “So… we just hit it toward the hole, right?”

Hart, 46, never one to miss a moment, brought his full personality to the bag—talking, joking, and likely offering swing advice no one asked for. You just know at some point he told Bryson, “Listen, I would’ve gone with a 7-iron… but also, I’m 5’5”, so take that how you want.”

And let’s be honest—carrying DeChambeau’s bag is basically a full-body workout. Those clubs aren’t just clubs; they’re scientifically engineered, protein-shake-approved, gym memberships in stick form. Kevin didn’t sign up to caddie—he signed up for leg day.

The Par 3 Contest is already known for being the fun, relaxed cousin of the Masters, where families show up, kids putt, and pros loosen up. But adding Kevin Hart? That turned it into a full-on comedy special with a side of golf.

In the end, whether Bryson hit it close or not almost didn’t matter. The real win was watching one of golf’s most analytical players team up with one of entertainment’s most energetic comedians. Because nothing says “tradition unlike any other” quite like Kevin Hart trying to read a green at Augusta.

Kevin Hart is one of the most successful and recognizable comedians in the world, known for his high-energy performances, sharp storytelling, and relentless work ethic.

Born on July 6, 1979, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hart was raised by his mother, Nancy Hart, who played a major role in shaping his discipline and drive. He often draws from his upbringing, family life, and personal experiences in his comedy, turning everyday situations into hilarious, relatable stories.

Hart began his career performing stand-up in small clubs, where he initially struggled to find his voice. Over time, he developed a signature comedic style rooted in self-deprecation, animated delivery, and real-life humor. His breakthrough came with a series of successful stand-up specials, including I’m a Grown Little Man, Seriously Funny, Laugh at My Pain, and Let Me Explain, which helped catapult him to international fame.

Beyond stand-up, Hart has built an impressive film career, starring in major box office hits such as Ride Along, Central Intelligence, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, and its sequel. His on-screen charisma and comedic timing have made him a sought-after leading man in Hollywood.

In addition to acting and comedy, Hart is a savvy entrepreneur. He founded HartBeat, a global media company, and has partnered with major brands across fitness, entertainment, and lifestyle industries. He is also a bestselling author, with his memoir I Can’t Make This Up: Life Lessons offering insight into his journey and mindset.

Hart is known for his commitment to fitness, often sharing his workouts and promoting a healthy lifestyle. He has also been open about overcoming personal challenges, including a serious car accident in 2019, using those experiences to inspire others.

Through his work on stage, screen, and in business, Kevin Hart has become more than a comedian—he is a global entertainer, motivational figure, and cultural force whose influence continues to grow.

We are now just 1 day away from the start of the 90^th Masters, a tradition that began in 1934. The tournament was not played from 1943 to 1945, due to World War II.

Players are fine tuning their swings, putting, reading greens etc. today.  Starting tomorrow every stroke counts. This is the last day for fun and games.

Par 3

Speaking of fun, the most popular activity patrons are watching today is the Par 3 contest. This is a time when the players and their families play the 9-hole course at Augusta National. It is an event for everyone to enjoy. The contest was won by  Aaron  Rai which is good and bad. No player who has won the Par 3 has never won the Masters. Aaron Rai won with a score of six-under-par 21. Four holes-in-one were recorded: Justin Thomas (No. 2), Tommy Fleetwood (No. 4), Wyndham Clark (No. 7) and Keegan Bradley (No. 8). Since the inception of the Par 3 Contest in 1960, 119 total holes-in-one have been made. 

Full results can be viewed HERE

Chairman Fred Ridley

I attended  Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley’s Press Conference this morning  during which he covered a variety of  weighty subjects including the remake of the Augusta Municipal Golf Course aka, the Patch where the locals regularly play.  He weighed in on some tough topics as he so eloquently answered questions from a most inquisitive press. The one question he couldn’t answer was about the Gnomes. Listen for yourself.

Chairman Ridley’s full remarks can be viewed HERE

The Noonans

As I have been regularly meeting with Augusta National patrons, I had the opportunity to meet the Noonan’s from Columbus, Ohio. As fate would have it, their anniversary is April 12, as they were married during Masters Week in 1997, the year of Tiger’s first win here. They secured their tickets through the Augusta National Ticket Lottery. They are great golf fans  I salute them for celebrating their anniversary at the Masters. We talked about many subjects, and I was able to have them share their predictions on the eventual winner.

Mr. Noonan’s top two choices are Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick. Mrs. Noonan’s picks are Ludvig Åberg and J.J. Spaun.          

The Crowd

One cannot ignore the steady stream of humanity coming through the gates, but no one knows how many, so here is my estimate.  I have no source other than observation and attendance at other tournaments. Augusta National does not release attendance figures.

The throng of people is just impressive everywhere you look—people watching the players, people waiting in line at the gift shop, and people constantly moving in and out all day long. My best guess is that some 40,000 attend daily. We will never know.

Crowd Demeanor

There is no question that this is the most well-mannered crowd in golf. Simply amazing.

You won’t hear the infamous “Mashed Potatoes” shout after a player swings. Should some misguided person be stupid enough to ever shout those words or any phrase that could interrupt a player, that person would be removed immediately….. by the patrons. Then permanently disqualified from ever attending again by the security detail at Augusta National. Don’t even try it.

TEE TIMES FOR THURSDAY

Here is the tee time schedule for Thursday. Click on this link https://www.masters.com/en_US/players/pairings/index.html

WATCHING THE MASTERS

Here is the TV schedule for your options on viewing the best players in the word.

Click here to see the details: https://www.masters.com/en_US/news/articles/2026-03-25/how_to_watch_the_2026_masters_tournament.html

Support My Sponsors

Thanks to my sponsors listed below for supporting my efforts in Augusta this week. Please show your appreciation and support each of them

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Special Thanks to the sponsors of this report who are supporting the magazine’s efforts in covering the activities at the  Augusta National Golf Course. DECISIVE MEDIA, EBONY GREENS, TOMMY BURNS GOLF CHALLENGE COINS, LLC

MASTERS DAILY REPORT SPONSORED BY: