Masters Tips: Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip
Tuesday 11 April 2023
Last week our Sports & Travel Specialist, Simon, had the absolute privilege of attending the 2023 US Masters at Augusta National Golf Club. Here are his thoughts of the event.
The US Masters is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the world of sport – never mind golf! – and to walk on the hallowed turf as so many of the greats truly was an honour.
The Tournament lived up to expectation with the Spaniard John Rahm holding his nerve and taking the famous Green Jacket on Sunday, holding off Brooks Koepka and a remarkable late charge by Phil Mickleson.
The Masters was an event like I have never been too. So, here are my top tips for anybody who is looking to visit – especially for the first time. Believe me, this is one you have to tick off that list!
There are numerous locations where you can base yourself for visiting Augusta during the Masters. The neighbouring cities of Columbia and Athens are more affordable options. However, this does incur a significant journey daily into the Masters and traffic can be heavy.
Now, Augusta itself isn’t renowned for its array of uber luxury five-star hotels. However, there are certainly good options if you’re looking to stay closer to the famous golf grounds when going to the Masters. The Partridge Inn, Augusta is a beautiful property and just ten minutes away from the course with lots of events nearby if you want to continue on into the evening.
For those discerning clients who want to live the life of luxury, look no further than the Ritz Carlton Lake Oconee – a golfer’s paradise. This superb five-star property on the banks of Lake Oconee is situated just an hour away from Augusta, blending its world-famous elegance with the area's natural beauty and southern charm. Here, there are four championship golf courses to choose from if you didn’t quite get that golf fix! And, to relax after, an award-winning spa awaits!
I was lucky enough to visit on both days – the Par 3 Tournament on the Wednesday and the opening day on Thursday.
The Par 3 Wednesday practice day is a fantastic day to attend the Masters. There is a fantastic family atmosphere here and this is one of the days you’re allowed to take in a camera (tournament days not permitted). Here you’ll see the world’s best in a more relaxed mood as they get their final practice in before the tournament.
On the Wednesday you also have the famous Par 3 tournament (during which I witnessed two hole in ones!). The Par 3 tournament is a long-standing tradition where the players play on a smaller nine-hole course, yet their families caddie for them! It’s great to see the players sharing this experience with their partners and children and accounts for the more relaxed atmosphere.
The tournament days are very much business end of the golf play; the atmosphere really is electric and people will queue from the early hours for the best spots on the course.
There is rich tradition around the famous green Masters chairs. You can purchase one inside the grounds for circa $35 or take your own folding chair with you (although no arm rests allowed!).
You’re allowed to perch your chair anywhere on the golf course and the general rule is, anyone can sit in that chair until the owner returns. All chairs are tagged with names at the back, so people remember where they put theirs – a great system!
At the Masters, you can put your chair almost anywhere on the course.
As you can imagine, it is busy – very busy! If you wanted to ensure you have that sought-after spot for your chair on the 18th, or prime position on Amen Corner, then get there early (pre-7am)! You’ll need to get in line and get your chair located in your prime spot – though remember, no running at any time!
Since returning, the main question I have had is “where is the best location to watch the golf from?”. Honestly, it is personal preference.
I loved just walking the course, taking in how undulating the grounds are and how pristine every blade of grass is kept. I loved watching from the 16th hole as you’re able to take in not only the famous par 3, but you also have a view of the 15th green and 17th tee if you’re in the right spot.
The 10th fairway was also a favourite of mine and I still can’t believe just how steep it is! Watching on TV does not do this justice! Behind the 12th tee was also a great spot; you can see players putt out on 11, play the 12th, and then tee-off on the 13th. Granted, it's not the most original idea, so it does get crowded.
The areas around the par-3 6th provide some nice views, too, as do the stands on the par-5 15th green. Make sure you grab a seat higher up in the grandstands there if you can, that way you can catch some action from the nearby 16th tee.
Amen Corner is also quite simply breathtaking and this really is a must for an hour or two. It’s known as one of the most difficult portions of an already-tough course and many players make or break their round on Amen Corner.
Think of Disneyland, for golfers!
Golfers from all around the world will flock to Augusta not only for the golf, but for the opportunity to purchase memorabilia with the famous yellow Masters logo.
The shop takes in over $1 million an hour during Masters week and you can see why! In the daytime the queue can stretch for hours so I really do recommend getting this out of your way early first thing in the day, so you can spend the rest of your day on the course.
One fantastic option here however is that, once you’ve purchased, you then have the option to store your items, or even better send them home for free! Normally they’ll even beat you there!
Another thing to look out for is the ‘Masters Gnome’, a sought after item for patrons! However only one purchase per customer (don’t ask!)
The second question I’ve been asked most since returning is the old favourite “how much did a pint set you back!?”
Augusta National has kept its food prices significantly low. The famous and must-try Pimento sandwich sets you back just $1.50, with a cold local ale an additional $5 on top.
There’s an array of food and beverage stalls all serving cold drinks, sandwiches, breakfast items and snacks which you can take around the course with you.
One of the key rules at Augusta is that phones are not permitted. Although this does make it hard to follow the live scores from other holes, I can’t stress how refreshing this was!
Patrons were able to enjoy the spectacle without distractions and it really is a welcome change from other events around the world. Should you need to contact home (or just rub it in to your best friends that you’re at the Masters!) there are free phones dotted around the grounds that you can use. And yes... it will come up with “Augusta National” on the recipients phone!
Getting your own tickets for the Masters involved a lottery process during June, during which you can apply for the tickets you’d like – though you won’t know if you’ve secured them for a few weeks.
At Spectate, we can secure your tickets for you and get working on tailoring your whole stay in Augusta – so you can relax and really make the most of enjoying the world’s most iconic golf tournament.
Make your next trip to the Masters with Spectate in 2024!
Packages are now on sale – including tickets, hospitality and our expert hosts to assist at all times.
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