Reporter’s Notebook: Pimento cheese sandwiches, public phones and lush greens mark golf’s premier event

AUGUSTA, Ga. – The 86th version of the Masters Event teed off Thursday morning, highlighted by Tiger Woods’ long-awaited comeback, however followers have been gathering at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership since Monday to participate in golf’s premier occasion, and its quirky traditions. 

The most typical suggestion you’ll get after telling somebody you’re going to the Masters is to attempt the pimento cheese sandwich. When you’re from the south, it is a acquainted dish, but when not – it is a shocking choice, particularly contemplating it is provided at some of the prestigious golf golf equipment on the planet.

This easy unfold is sandwiched between two slices of untoasted white bread, wrapped in a inexperienced bag, and stacked on large cabinets with a whole bunch of its form. It is underwhelming however on the identical time completely satisfying. 

MASTERS 2022: ORIGINS OF GOLF’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS TOURNAMENT

Maybe the most effective half is the value: $1.50. 

In reality, all of the menu gadgets on the Masters are surprisingly reasonably priced. Imported beers for $5, a cup of espresso for $1.50, a Georgia peach ice cream sandwich for $2 – simply to call a number of. 

An in depth view of Masters meals merchandise costs at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership on April 10, 2019, in Augusta, Georgia.
(Andrew Redington/Getty Photographs)

The overall sentiment is that the Masters is an occasion for the folks and the experiences. That is highlighted by the truth that Augusta maintains a strict no-phone coverage. Followers, or patrons as they’re referred to, can herald private cameras – there have been a number of disposable cameras noticed on the grounds – however no cellphones. 

In case of emergency, there are a number of public telephones positioned all through the course followers can use.

Patrons make cellphone calls throughout a apply spherical earlier than the eightieth Masters on April 6, 2016, in Augusta, Georgia.
(Nicholas Kamm/AFP through Getty Photographs)

The second suggestion is to put on comfy footwear, very comfy. The 18-hole course sits on 365-acres of rolling hills. Photos could be deceiving however standing by the ninth gap reveals simply how hilly the course is. 

Comfy clothes is a should within the humid and wet Georgia climate however in the event you’re out of luck, the golf store at Augusta has infinite choices. The strains are lengthy, however the course of is environment friendly. 

Tiger Woods walks onto the sixth gap as patrons collect in the course of the Masters at Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership on April 14, 2019. 
(Kevin C. Cox/Getty Photographs)

Tuesday’s apply spherical was lower brief due to the climate, however patrons gathered on the apply space to look at a number of gamers, together with 20-time PGA Tour winner Rory McIlroy, after the horn sounded.

It was fascinating to listen to lifelong followers speak about their favourite gamers with a way of familiarity. 

Patrons look on as Dustin Johnson putts on the ninth inexperienced in the course of the Masters on Nov. 12, 2020, in Augusta, Georgia. 
(Jamie Squire/Getty Photographs)

“Rory seems to be match, seems to be like he’s been figuring out,” one spectator famous. 

The traditions and quirks of the Masters are infinite and in the event you’re ever fortunate sufficient to expertise it firsthand, you’d have a brand new appreciation for Jim Nantz’s catchphrase for it, “a convention in contrast to every other.”