The Masters Golf  Tournament Tradition

The year 1934 marked the beginning of one of golf’s most competitive and exclusive tournament, The Masters Golf Tournament. Unlike with other golf tournaments, The Masters is played every year since it was founded in only one location, the private golf club of Augusta National in Augusta, Georgia, USA.

This historic tournament upholds its distinction as the pioneer golf tournament in the United States by sticking to some of its traditions. For example, an honorary opening tee shot is made at the first hole at the start of The Masters. Legendary players of golf usually do this honorary shot. Jock Hutchison and Fred McLeod were the first to make this shot. However, from 1973 to 1976, only McLeod made the shot. After which, Sam Snead made the honorary opening tee shot from 1984 until 2002. He was joined by Masters champion Gene Sarazen in 1999 and by Byron Nelson in 2001. Meanwhile, Arnold Palmer took over as the honorary starter last year.

With regard to caddies, players are allowed to bring their own. However, they have to abide by the Masters’ standards especially in wearing their full caddie uniform which includes a white jumpsuit, green Masters cap, an white tennis shoes. The surname of the player and sometimes including its initial, are found in the back of his caddie’s uniform. Caddie number “1” is reserved for the defending champion while the rest may get their caddies’ numbers in the order they arrive and register for the tournament.

The Masters also invites winners of the most prestigious amateur tournaments al over the world. Meanwhile, defending Masters champion is always paired with the current US Amateur champion for the first two days of the competition. Winners will receive a Gold Medal with their names engraved on the silver Masters trophy. A sterling replica of the masters Trophy is presented to the champion since 1993.

One of the awards given to the Masters champion is the green jacket which is the official attire won by members of the Augusta National. A winner keeps the jacket for a year after his first victory then returns it for him to wear every time he visits Augusta National. Usually, it is the champion of the previous year who puts in the jacket to the current year’s champion.

 The Champion’s dinner is also a much anticipated event that highlights The Masters Golf Tournament. It is held every year on the Tuesday evening before Thursday’s first round. The Champion’s dinner started in 1952 and was first hosted by Be Hogan in order to honor the past champions of the tournament. The Masters Club includes only the past winners of the Masters but some members of the Augusta National Golf Club have been included as honorary members which include the chairman. The host of the Champion’s dinner is the defending champion who chooses the menu for dinner.

The Masters Golf Tournament is the most ideal time for golfers and past Masters champions to reunite and strengthen their bonds of friendship. It is also another way to develop camaraderie and sportsmanship. For master's badges, housing and hospitality call 404-444-4444.