In a city known for spectacle and sophistication, an upcoming event is bringing a fresh, purposeful energy to the fairways. Golfing Queen, a growing lifestyle and networking brand for women, is set to host its “Corporate Ladies: An Intimate Experience” on April 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Las Vegas Golf Course, 4300 W. Washington Avenue.

Designed as more than just a social gathering, the event blends networking, golf, lifestyle, and wellness into a curated experience for professional women seeking meaningful connections in an elegant setting. With limited VIP seating, attendees can expect a more personal, high-touch environment—one that reflects the brand’s mission of empowering women through community and shared experiences.

At the center of this vision is Sheila Washington, the founder and driving force behind Golfing Queen Enterprises. Washington has built a reputation for creating spaces where women—particularly women of color—can connect, collaborate, and grow both personally and professionally through the game of golf.

A Vision Rooted in Empowerment

Sheila Washington’s journey into golf and entrepreneurship is rooted in a passion for inclusion and representation. Recognizing that golf has long been a space where access and opportunity were limited for many women, she set out to change that narrative. Through Golfing Queen, she has cultivated a platform that merges sport with lifestyle, encouraging women to step confidently onto the course while building valuable relationships.

Her brand extends beyond events, encompassing mentorship, branding, and community-building initiatives that position golf as a tool for advancement—not just recreation. Washington’s work reflects a broader movement to diversify the sport and make it more welcoming to new audiences.

More Than a Golf Event

The April 25 gathering in Las Vegas is a reflection of that mission. Attendees will not only enjoy a beautiful golf setting but also engage in intentional networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration among corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

The event’s focus on wellness and lifestyle further distinguishes it from traditional networking mixers. By combining elements of relaxation, inspiration, and sport, Golfing Queen creates an atmosphere where authentic connections can flourish.

Building Community, One Swing at a Time

From serving as a meeting point for ambitious women to promoting the cultural and social benefits of golf, Golfing Queen continues to grow as a dynamic force in the industry. Events like this one highlight the evolving face of golf—one that is inclusive, stylish, and community-driven.

As anticipation builds for the Las Vegas experience, one thing is clear: Sheila Washington and Golfing Queen are not just hosting events—they are shaping a movement.

For those looking to connect, unwind, and elevate their network, this intimate evening on the greens promises to be both impactful and unforgettable. Learn more about the Corporate Ladies golf experience by calling 833-388-GOLF (4653) or email [email protected]

I know Augusta is for the players, as getting here is not easy, and winning here is a life-changing event. I have been drawn to the patrons, as their visit here is also life-changing. I find their stories fascinating and extremely interesting, and I hope you do too. I have been trying to just let the stories unfold for me as each day progresses.

So today, I arrived at about 5 this morning and was the first one in the media center. I reflected on my approach for the day, had breakfast at 6, came back to my work area, and reviewed and sent some emails.

Tommy Fleetwood Press Conference (click to read)

I attended the 9:30 Fleetwood press conference, as I like him. He toiled on the tour, winless in 164 starts, until he won the PGA Tour Championship. He had to wonder if he would ever win, but win he did, along with the $10 million prize.

Carl Jackson

I ventured out on the course at about 10:30 and just let it flow. I saw a familiar face who was engaged in conversation with one of the members, so I waited my turn to go and talk with Carl Jackson. Mr. Jackson is iconic at Augusta National. I also consider him historic and venerable.

You see, Mr. Jackson was one of the Black caddies who worked at Augusta for years. According to the article written by CNN’s Jack Bannon, Black men—and only Black men—carried the bags from the inception of the Masters in 1934 until 1983, when players could bring their own caddies. Well, Carl was “on the bag.”

Bannon’s article also states that Jackson worked at the Augusta Country Club before graduating to Augusta National in 1958. In 1976, he paired with Ben Crenshaw for the first time. The soft-spoken Jackson was a green-reading extraordinaire. After finishing runner-up on their first outing, in 1984 Crenshaw clinched a two-shot victory over Watson to seal his maiden major title. Crenshaw and Jackson would celebrate a second green jacket in 1995.

Mr. Jackson has won two Masters. He is special, so I couldn’t wait to shake his hand and give him a bro-hug. His brother Jimmy was there, and we all embraced the moment and each other. We finished our conversation with a prayer and an autograph from Carl. I am grateful to know Carl Jackson.

The Gift Shop

OK, I gave in and went to the gift shop, as I was being bombarded by people to purchase caps, hats, etc. Thank goodness it was just a 45-minute journey via a long, meandering line to get into the shop. Believe me, I was not enthused about even getting in line, but I have to admit that the line did move and wasn’t as bad as I thought.

I did my shopping, paid, and left with just minor damage to my wallet. Of course, I was contacted again to secure more merchandise, and I decided to go back a second time—yes, a second time. All I can say is that being known by your first name at the Augusta gift shop can’t be good for your wallet.

Rory McIlroy Press Conference (click to read)

This was a very well attended presser, probably 200 media in attendance and you can read the full details here.

I thought since he is the defending champion and the latest member of the career grand slam club that I should attend. Rory was also another one I was pulling for to win the Masters last year. He conducted a great press conference.

Ben Davis

When I returned to the media center, I had a text from a young man I met on Saturday. We had discussed his career in IT and the opportunities in golf. I had encouraged him to go to the Make Golf Your Career website and view the opportunities and post his information.

Ben Davis, is a 28-year-old IT Professional by day and a musician by night, who also loves the game of golf. Born in Augusta, GA and raised in the Piedmont area of North Carolina. He is  based in Greensboro, NC, enjoys watching golf, solving technical issues, and playing jazz.

Here is his text. This really added to the great day I was already having at Augusta.

I finished my day polishing off this article and hope that I have done justice to the great day I enjoyed. Here is information about the fun par 3 contest on Wednesday,. Thanks to the  companies sponsoring my reporting from the Masters. Please look at their information and support them.

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:

Drive, Chip and Putt celebrates 12th playing of the National Finals

Monday, Monday, can’t trust that day! Is the line from the Mamas and the Papas singing group an American-Canadian folk rock vocal group that recorded and performed in the 60’s but can be applicable to the first day at the Masters as well.

Well, here we are and everything is coming up roses  (actually Azaleas) on the Monday of the Masters. The field of 85 are all equal, smiling, enjoying their practice rounds, pimento cheese sandwiches and everything else Augusta National has to offer.  Players now have 3 days to get in combat mode as these 18 hallowed holes wait to reward, ambush, anguish, agonize, punish, defeat, deflate and infuriate the worlds top players, veterans and amateurs alike. As I was once told by a wise and sage person, Golf Don’t Care! Only time will tell. So, enjoy the moment as it won’t last long.

Part 1 , My Morning Walkabout

I took a stroll this morning and just hung around hole 1 and the famous Master’s scoreboard. I had the privilege of:

1. Bumping into brother Fred Perpall, the 67th  president of the USGA. We exchanged pleasantries and vowed to get together for an update on the status of the industry.
   
2. Meeting a group of lovely ladies who are AKA’s. One lady had just come from the merchandise tent where she waited in line for 90 minutes to buy her Gnomes. She had two and a load of other goodies. Fortunately, her husband was the pack mule for the day, and he was doing it in style. Those AKA’s are a force to be sure.
   
3. Greeting a family of four whose leader and tour guide for the day was Mr. Christopher Handy, a graduate of South Carolina State University and a math and science teacher in the Augusta school system. He is also a 22-year veteran of touring Augusta National making him eminently qualified.  His mother, Catherine Handy won 4 tickets in the Augusta National ticket lottery, her second year in a row winning tickets. Mr. Shelton Farmer and his daughter Sheniyah, a sophomore at Augusta University majoring in graphic design and Catherine’s granddaughter rounded out this foursome.  They were on a mission to see all they could see and enjoy the day. Catherine and Sheniyah were particularly interested in the outstanding and  fashionable attire worn by  the ladies. A fashion show on grass!

Part 2 – On the Course

This is a day when the players are playing their practice rounds. Testing their skills for sure but also learning the nuances of each hole from tee to green. Augusta is not your normal course. As an example, some holes have severely undulating greens. Simply, put in order to make some putts you may need to start the ball on a line totally opposite of where you would on any other course.  I watched a few players for a few holes just to see how they hit certain shots from certain distances and angles. Watching these fellas play is a great learning tool. Click here to see the list of players invited to play and how they were selected.

Part 3 – Off the Course

Throughout the day, players are scheduled to participate in interviews in the media center, or outside in the Quick Quote area, Augusta National wants to make sure the public can and will hear thoughts and perspectives from the players. Although this is done live, transcripts are provided for the press to read through their various comments.  I have  provided links to the comments from Justin Rose, who was the 2025 Masters runner up  to Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele who has recorded 5 top ten finishes in the last 7 years at Augusta.

Part 4 – The Merchandise

Masters merchandise is among  some of the most prized  items in golf.  One can only purchase items at Augusta as they do not have an on-line retail presence – on purpose.

So, unless you know someone  attending or purchasing from a marked up third-party site, you cannot secure the merch. Now having said that, it is common for a person attending the Masters to purchase for their friends and family. Caps, Shirts, Ball Markers, Socks, ad infinitum. The lines can be long , in some cases as much as 90 minutes but people do wait. It is common for individual sales to run into the thousands of dollars. I have never seen merchandise literally fly of the shelf the way it does at Augusta. Simply Amazing!

Part 5 – The Food

I will simply say the sandwiches are $2 and beer is $5 and it has been that way for years. Need I say more!

Part 6 – The Duties of The Media

Good people, Monday night the media was invited to a special reception with the members of Augusta National. Take it easy on me now as very valuable contacts are made at these kind of gatherings, again showing the networking power of this $102 Billion industry.

Of course, I am eager and excited to attend and meet some of the most influential people in the sport, business and industry of golf. Yes I had a very enjoyable experience.

Let me end this article on that note. Golf is Business – do not get it twisted.

I again want to thank  my sponsors for their support. Please visit their websites and support their efforts. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s report.

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:

Well, today is a special day in the lives of 80 young people from 34 U.S. states and one Canadian province who have earned the right to play in the National Finals of Drive, Chip and Putt. According to the spectator guide, the finalists reached Augusta National following a months-long qualifying season that included hundreds of events nationwide and tens of thousands of participants.

This all began last April at 355 sites throughout the country. No more than three top scorers per venue, in each of the four age categories across separate boys’ and girls’ divisions, advanced to 64 subregional qualifiers in July and August.

The top finisher from each of the 10 regional qualifying sites’ eight age/gender divisions—a total of 80 finalists—earned a place in today’s National Finals.

This 12^th Drive, Chip and Putt National final is conducted in partnership between the Masters Tournament, the  PGA of America and the USGA. It is a nationwide youth golf development program open to boys and girls ages 7 -15 in four age categories.

The three-part competition tests the skills essential to playing the game -driving, chipping and putting.

Here is how it works:

Drive

Each player has two attempts to record his or her longest drive. The player in each age group with the longest drive receives 10 points and it goes down to 1 point

Chip

Each player will chip twice and the cumulative distance from the hole will be recorded. The player with the closest cumulative distance will receive 10 points and so on down the list.

Putt

Each player will attempt a putt from 15 feet and from 30 feet and the cumulative distance from the hole will be recorded. The player with the closest cumulative distance  after two putts will receive 10 points and so on.

Pace of Play Bonus

Players will be awarded with an extra half point for each shot they complete in 40 seconds or less.

So, as I mentioned, there are 80 players, and I have chosen to focus on the three I thought you, the readers, would be most interested in knowing more about. I went out to the competition area and scouted them as they were dressed in colors representing their region of competition. The East Region wore green, and the South Central Region wore orange, so they were not hard to find.

In each case, they were surrounded by family members who were more than eager to talk with me. I even asked each of them and their parents for their autographs to add a little more spice to the meeting.

I can only tell you it was so good to hear each youth and their parents talk about the commitment and passion required to get to the finals. We need more of this in our communities.

In talking with Zoe, she was focused, polite, and articulate. Her plans are to play high school and college golf. She also told me she loved to bake and offered to make me a cake. I politely, but reluctantly, declined. Her parents were so proud, and they shared the sacrifices it took to get Zoe to this level. I will be watching this young lady as she continues her path through golf. She has a presence about her that screams confidence. Her longest drive today was 157.8 yards.

Next was Chloe. She, too, did not lack for confidence, as she demonstrated by her third-place finish. As if that wasn’t enough, she also told Augusta National member, former Secretary of State, and Stanford faculty member, Condoleezza Rice, that she was planning to attend Stanford and play golf. Chutzpah, for sure, which this game—and life—demand from us. It is interesting to note that her dad and uncle were instrumental in introducing her to golf. In fact, her dad told me he would take her out to the driving range when she was two, as he would hit balls. Sound familiar? By the way, her longest drive today was 207 yards.

Last, but not least, was Stephen, who won his overall division. I could not confirm if he was the first African American to win a division title, but it is safe to say he would be one of a select few. He does not lack for confidence either, as his grandmother, Marlene, told me that at the qualifier he told his grandfather, Charles, and I quote, “Papi, I am taking you to the Masters.” Stephen’s longest drive today was 245.4 yards—goodness gracious!

Here are some observations I noticed  or learned about these three players

1. There was an abundance of family present to watch these players in the competition
2. Mom and Dad were clearly present and active in these young players lives
3. Mom and Dad admitted that this was a financial sacrifice
4. They had the support of all the family
5. Intergenerational and multigenerational influence was evident
6. Access to facilities for training was critical
7. They were mannerly and well spoken
8. Common values were evident
9. Each player wants to go further including college
10. Their goals in school and life are identified

Folks ,this was a great and historic day at a great and historic place. Full results on all 80 players can be viewed in a separate article in the magazine. I hope you will agree that these three deserved their own space. Once again my thanks to the sponsors of my time here at Augusta National. Please take a moment and click on their logos below and learn more about each of them. See you tomorrow.

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:

Hello Golf Patrons, that is what fans are called at the Augusta National Golf Club. I arrived on  Augusta National premises Saturday morning at 9:14 to start 9 days of coverage of events from this magical place. My office for the next few  days will be the newly renovated Augusta National Media Center which you can view HERE.

Today was the  final round of the 54 Hole  Augusta National Women’s Amateur which started on Thursday. The initial field of 72 was reduced to the top 30 and ties after the second round with the cut line at 143. The first 36 holes were played at Champions Retreat Golf Club in Augusta. Everyone played a practice round at Augusta National on Saturday including those not making the cut. The final 32 players teed it up today. The leader starting the round was Asterisk Talley from Stanford University who had a 1 shot lead over eventual winner Maria Jose Marin from the University of Arkansas. Talley started the day at 11 under and increased that to 14 under until she bogeyed hole 11 which is a 400-yard par 4 dropping her to 13 under. Meanwhile Marin had started her ascent getting to 13 under  at Hole 9.

So, from Hole 11 on it was on and popping!  Did I mention that  Hole 11 is the start of Amen Corner which has been the site of many problems, issues and meltdowns over the years for many golfers? Today was no different. Talley rung up a  whopping 7 on Hole 12 which is  145-yard par 3 over water, dropping 4 more strokes to go to 9 under. Marin parred the hole and took the outright  lead at 13 under. They both birdied Hole 13 and now Marin is 14 under and Talley is 4 back. Talley pars Hole 14, bogeys 15, doubles 16, birdies 17, and a par on 18, but the damage has been done as she finishes 8 under for the tournament. Marin pars 14 bogeys, 15 birdies 16, and finishes with pars on 17 and 18, finishing at 14 under good enough to win this tournament which started in 2019. The full  tournament results are listed here.

I should mention that Talley’s Stanford teammate, Andrea Revuelta, was also making her charge up the leaderboard as she started the day at 6 under and finished at 10 under for second place.

What a great day for  the Stanford University women’s golf team with players  finishing 2^nd, T-4 , T-4 and 9th at Augusta National. Could this be a sign of things to come at the NCAA Championships next month?

The other golfer of interest to me  was  Emily Odwin from  St. James Barbados who plays for Southern Methodist University. She made the cut; 40 golfers did not. She finished the tournament at T-27 at 2 over par. Her stats were as follows, Driving Distance, 269.4-yard average, ranking her 11^th in the field. She was 23 of 42 fairways Hit at 54.76% and 40 of 54 Greens in Regulation at 74.07% ranking her 7^th in that category.  She finished with 91 Putts over 54 holes which is a 1.69 Putting average ranking her 22^nd in that category.  So, a respectable outing but work to do for sure. However, listening to her interviews, she possesses great poise and confidence in her game. I am pulling for her to achieve more.

I also like to talk with patrons on the course and find out why they are attending Augusta National. Here are a few of the people I talked with about their experience:

Ben Davis,  an IT specialist from Greensboro, SC and a new golfer. He won  a ticket thru the Augusta National ticket lottery and drove up for the day. He has just started his golf career and has admittedly gotten golf fever. He even talked about looking for an IT job in Golf.

Atlanta’s Maynard Jackson High school golf coach, Charles Turner who was serving as a chaperone for a group of young ladies. He is passionate and avid as we talked about his desire to give back to the community including his coordinating the Veterans Coalition Foundation 5^th Annual Tournament, Friday June 26 at the Crystal Lake Golf Course in Hampton, GA.

Mr. White, who is with the City of Augusta and  has been coming to the Masters tournament for 44 years and likes to bring people to Augusta and introduce them to the game.

I had the pleasure of meeting several young ladies from the Her Shot golf program  based in Atlanta. They  were accompanied by program Founder Bria Janelle Townsend whose grandfather, Ron Townsend, was the first Black member of Augusta National and was Bria’s inspiration to start the program. They were eager to share their stories and career aspirations. Their enthusiasm, articulation and presence was indeed a pleasure.

Her Shot is a youth development program and leadership platform designed to prepare youth ages 11–18 for education, workforce participation, and long-term self-sufficiency through the game of golf. Her Shot upholds: accountability, work ethic, opportunity, and upward mobility. Her Shot is built on the belief that access paired with structure creates outcomes. The program focuses on providing youth with the tools, expectations, and exposure necessary to develop leadership skills, confidence, and readiness for real-world success—both on and off the golf course.

Special Thanks to the sponsors listed here 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:

I talked to many more people,  but I think you get a sense of the passion and excitement that we bring to this sport and  $102B industry. We have so many gifts to share, and I am grateful to meet just some of the people on course Saturday. Happy Easter to everyone and please continue to share your gifts and insights with the community. We are “Growing the Game.”

Be part of the excitement at the 2026 ShopRite LPGA powered by Wakefern, May 25–31 at Seaview Golf Club! Each year, hundreds of volunteers help bring the tournament to life—supporting areas like marshaling, scoring, transportation, hospitality, and more.

In 2026, we’re looking for 600+ volunteers to play a key role in tournament week. It’s a great chance to get behind the scenes, connect with the community, and be part of a premier LPGA event.

Scroll down to learn more, or click below to sign up!

Volunteer Package: $65 

• One Tournament branded polo
• One Tournament branded headwear 
• Two weekly grounds tickets for friends or family 
• Customized volunteer pin
• Volunteer credential (acts as weekly grounds + parking pass) 
• Food and beverages on days worked 

*Any volunteer who works 3 shifts or more will be able to play a round at Seaview’s Bay Course within a specified period of time*