5 Reasons We Love the Masters

Yes, absolutely there are more than five reasons we have a love affair with the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club.

That said, one of the tournament’s consistent attractions is its uncompromising dedication to tradition. As daily life races by in a sea of emails, tweets and posts it’s comforting to know we can always rely on the Masters every spring to bring back some predictability and sanity to our lives.

Here are five reasons we love the Masters:

Ceremonial Tee Shots – A beloved tradition since 1963, this inspiring ritual is a poignant way to bring all generations of golfers together. For the past few years Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Players have hit the tee shots to officially open the Masters. Unfortunately, due to health issues, Palmer, 87, will not be on the tee in 2016.

Green Jacket – It’s funny, the only time a green sports jacket seems to be a popular fashion statement is during the Masters. The Green Jacket dates back to 1937 when the members started wearing them so patrons could easily identify them in a crowd to ask questions. Now, when you see the jacket, you always think Masters Champion. In recent years, Phil Mickelson wore his at a Krispy Kreme drive-thru and Jordan Spieth donned his for an appearance on The David Letterman Show.

Par 3 Contest – A joyous family celebration- where players are often accompanied by their kids and wives and girlfriends caddie- the Par 3 Contest has been around since 1960. It’s played on Wednesday and no player has won the 9-hole event and then gone on to win the Green Jacket in the same year.

Champion’s Dinner – Its been an annual tradition since 1952 when Ben Hogan suggested and hosted the first one. The previous year’s champion selects the menu (he also has to pick up the tab). Jordan Spieth, the 2015 Masters Champion, selected Texas BBQ for his entree selection this year. Notable menus include, Tiger Woods in 1998 (cheeseburgers and chicken sandwiches), Phil Mickelson in 2011 (seafood paella) and Mike Weir in 2004 (elk and wild boar).

Magnolia Lane – Numerous players have told stories about getting “goosebumps” every time they drive the 330 yard long road leading to the Augusta National clubhouse. Framed on each side by 61 magnolia trees, the road has a tunnel-life feel which even further enhances the dramatic effect.