One of the places I have always wanted to visit is the Augusta National Golf Club. I love golf, but I do not want to play golf there. Just walk around the course to soak up the beautiful location.
Nestled in Augusta, Georgia, Augusta National Golf Club is one of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world. Known for hosting the annual Masters Tournament, this iconic club has a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a reputation for excellence in the sport.
The Origins of Augusta National.
Founded in 1932 by legendary golfer Bobby Jones and investment banker Clifford Roberts, Augusta National was designed by Alister MacKenzie, a renowned golf course architect. The course was built on the site of a former nursery, Fruitland, which influenced the tradition of naming each hole after a plant or tree found on the property.
The Masters Tournament.
Since 1934, Augusta National has been home to the Masters Tournament, one of golf’s four major championships. The tournament is famous for its Green Jacket, awarded to the winner, and its challenging course layout, including the legendary Amen Corner—a stretch of holes 11, 12, and 13 that has tested the skills of the greatest golfers in history.
Course Design and Features.
Augusta National is known for its immaculate fairways, fast greens, and stunning scenery. The course spans 7,510 yards with a par of 72. Some of its most famous landmarks include:
- Rae’s Creek: A water hazard that runs through Amen Corner.
- Eisenhower Tree: A loblolly pine that once stood on the 17th hole (removed in 2014).
- Butler Cabin: Where the Masters champion is interviewed after their victory.
The club has undergone several renovations over the years, with architects like Perry Maxwell, Robert Trent Jones, and Tom Fazio making adjustments to enhance the course’s challenge and beauty.
Exclusivity and Tradition.
Augusta National is a private club, and membership is by invitation only. The club does not disclose its membership list, financial details, or ticket sales, adding to its mystique. Despite its exclusivity, Augusta National has made strides toward inclusivity, admitting its first female members in 2012.
A Golfing Legacy.
Augusta National Golf Club remains a symbol of tradition, excellence, and prestige in the world of golf. Whether you're a player, a fan, or simply an admirer of the sport, the club’s history and beauty make it a truly legendary destination.
My wish to visit Augusta.
I have watched the Masters golf tournament on television for many years, and when I view a camera positioned on the course that shows off its slopes and hills, I am always amazed at how anyone can control a golf ball around the course. The greens look very different from the flat greens I have played worldwide.
Ideally, my bucket list dream for the course would be to walk the course with a putter and then, from 50 yards off of each green, throw a golf ball onto the green and putt it out. Even doing this, I would be fortunate to get a par on any of the holes. My golfing hero, Tiger Woods, could walk around with me, giving me tips on reading the greens.