The Masters Initiatives in Promoting Golf to the Youth

Who says that golf is only for adults is obviously mistaken. Golf is a very popular sport played by people everywhere. Because of its popularity and appeal to the public, several golf tournaments are held every year in different parts of the world. Of course, none can compare with the prestige and challenge brought about by The Masters Golf Tournament.

The Masters was founded not merely for fame and competition but also comes with the sincere desire to promote the game of golf to the youth. In order to address this goal, the 2008 Masters Tournament committee came up with two great initiatives for this year’s golf tournament in Augusta National.

Golf is one of the most popular sports children are very familiar with. As a matter of fact, golf fans and golfers from different parts of the world would often bring with them their children to watch golf tournaments especially one as exciting and challenging as the Masters Golf Tournament.

The chairman of the Masters Tournament and Augusta National Golf Club President, Mr. Billy Payne announced last December 6, 2007 their first two initiatives of a multi-year, multifaceted program to utilize the Masters brand and resources to promote the game of golf around the world.

The first of these initiatives employs the Masters Golf Tournament’s most coveted item which is a ticket to the Masters.

Starting this year’s Masters Golf Tournament, a youngster age 8 to 16 will be admitted for free during the Tournament days which are scheduled Thursday through Sunday. However he or she must be accompanied by an accredited patron in order to avail of this special freebie. Accredited patron refers to someone attending the Masters who is also the individual named on a series badge application.

According to Payne, They are offering this kind of initiative starting the 2008 Masters because of their serious desire to help expose children to the wholesome game of golf and the world famous The Masters Golf Tournament.

Beside exposure to how the game of golf it is played, it is also an excellent opportunity for children to visit the exclusive private golf club of Augusta National in Augusta, Georgia. Children will also get to see famous golfers like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, and Phil Mickelson.

Meanwhile, Payne also announced that ESPN will also cover the par 3 contest on April 9 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. The par 3 contest is considered as one of the exciting events in the Masters, which the whole family will surely enjoy. It is also a special game which was first conducted in 1960 and is played over a nine hole, par 27 1,060 yard course.  In addition, it is a rare opportunity for both players and patrons to enjoy golf as families.

These two initiatives are important steps in promoting golf especially among children. Furthermore, The Masters Golf Tournament will also gain popularity in the younger generation through these initiatives. For master's badges, housing and hospitality call 404-444-4444.