Augusta, GA
Tiger Woods Back at Augusta National, First Time Since Achiles Injury
Tiger Woods has shown several signs of a successful recovery from his ruptured Achilles tendon. He was recently spotted twice following his son, Charlie, during golf tournaments, and this Friday he visited the Augusta National Golf Club.
This marks Woods’ first return to the Masters Tournament venue since his injury. In fact, that incident prevented him from attending the infamous Champions Dinner at the most recent edition of the event.
Woods’ purpose in visiting was to see firsthand the construction of the 9-hole course designed by his firm, TGR Design, next to the Augusta Municipal Golf Course, near the renowned Augusta National. Fred Ridley, chairman of the Masters Tournament, accompanied Woods on his visit.
Currently known as “The Patch,” the 9-hole course is part of a project by Woods that includes a TGR Learning Lab. The course is expected to open in 2026, and the lab is scheduled to open in 2028.
It will be the fourth TGR Learning Lab, joining those currently operating in Anaheim and Philadelphia, and the one that will be open next year in Los Angeles. These STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) institutions are designed to promote and facilitate the development of different branches of knowledge.
This collaboration between Woods and Augusta National was announced at the 2025 Masters Tournament. At the time, Ridley emphasized the importance of the future course for both the community and the legendary player:
“I know that this whole concept of a short course is something that’s near and dear to Tiger’s heart,” Ridley said, according to the Augusta Chronicle.
“I know he’s stated that he grew up playing on short courses. So I’m sure they’re going to make it really interesting for these people, for everybody -the young people and everybody else that are playing it.”
Andrew Redington/Getty Images
In early March, Tiger Woods announced that he had ruptured his Achilles tendon while preparing for the Players Championship. The event would have marked the start of his 2025 PGA Tour season.
The 15-time major champion underwent immediate surgery, and the prognosis was favorable. However, due to the severity of the injury, it is unlikely that Woods will return to competitive golf until at least 2026.
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Augusta, GA
Augusta nonprofit hosts family financial literacy day
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Lane Bryant to close Augusta Mall store this weekend
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
Augusta, GA
Willie James Tanksley Obituary April 16, 2026 – G.L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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