Augusta National... The Dream
Fergal O'Leary gets the invite to play Augusta National
Zooming down the runway at Atlanta airport grasping a boarding pass with "Destination: Augusta" printed on the front, I knew my dream was beginning to become reality. Flying over the Georgia plains heading towards the Promised Land, I remember looking out the window hoping to catch an aerial glimpse of golfing Mecca. The smile on my face competed with the warmth being given off from the nearby sun. When the airplane safely touched down, my heart rate was immeasurable. As the sun set, we were met by our host at Augusta airport and driven in a luxury van down the local streets towards the club. The conversation was enthusiastic and each golfer had a look on their face like it was Christmas morning. When I first saw the sign " - Members Only", I knew that my drive up Magnolia Lane was just seconds away. The tunnel of ancient trees framed the most sought after invitation in the golfing world. In front of my eyes were the Founder's Circle and the clubhouse to Augusta National proudly displaying its might. There are some things in life which forever seem like a dream, and when they become a reality, it still feels like a dream.We were chauffeured to the Berckman's Cabin where we were met by the club staff to unload our luggage and show us to our individual suites. Our cabin was half way down the 10th fairway. Even in the dark of night, Augusta shines with such unique beauty and charm. New friends were getting acquainted as the first drinks were being poured. Bud, Brick & I exchanged golfing stories in the sitting room surrounded by framed images of Sarazen, Nelson, Hogan and Snead while the member attended to some business. After a while, I heard the bedroom door opening, and out came my first view of a green jacket. You've heard the phrase "time stood still", I think at that point my interpretation of time was thrown out the window and then some. I couldn't help but stare, and my mind raced with everything that this jacket represented. It was perfection before my eyes - and the leader of the pack was clearly established with supreme dominance. We gathered around him with eyes wide open. We entered the Augusta National dining room which had seven tables occupied with four individuals at each. The green jacket at each dinner table stood out like a black sheep. My eyes ran around the room trying to quickly identify who was sitting at each table. However, you couldn't help but admire the two paintings on either side of the room: Clifford Roberts and Bob Jones. The founders of so many dreams. After a delicious meal filled with laughter and introductions, we were escorted down to the wine cellar. Hand-written pencil inscriptions under the bottles alerted us to ownership "Not for Sale - Mr. Roberts". The cellar was over 50 years old and the wooden shelves have warped over time, but they continue to support one of the most unique collections of wine/champagne in existence.
Our host brought us on a tour of the Crow's Nest, the Masters Locker room, the entire clubhouse - and the more significant cabins on the property. All of the Cabins were open, and despite having golfers inside, accompanied guests were free to wander in and collectively explore some of the game's history. The Butler Cabin was a short walk from the dining room, where we went down to the basement level to see where the "Green Jacket Ceremony" takes places in April of every year. A Master has been identified. The Eisenhower Cabin was next door and offered tremendous history, art work and images that reminded us of wars & battles when the former President stood at the helm. The Tennessee Cabin reminded us of the many talented golfers to come from The Volunteer State – and offered an equal level of luxury to any visitor. Despite the short project timeline of just four months to complete a cabin, they each look like they have been there for centuries. Images of golfing masters populate the walls which golfing apprentices worship. My bed in the Berckman's Cabin was merely a place to lie down; the ability to sleep was impossible.
At 6.30am, I was about to undertake the best thing I've ever done on a golf course. I stood on the 1st tee and began to walk down the fairway. I remember looking back over my shoulder praying to God that my footprints would disappear from the morning dew. Oh well, here we go. I could see the changes in elevation and Georgia Pines throughout the picture-perfect property, and how they framed Mr. Jones's foresight. I strolled down the hill on the 2nd and could see the two bunkers which awaited the ball of the aggressive golfer going for the green in two shots. I cut across the 3rd fairway where I saw the most lethal pin-position available: Front Left. Looking down the hill to the par 3 4th green sent one thought through my mind "don't go into that front bunker!” I climbed the 5th fairway feeling like I had reached the first base camp on Mt. Everest. If you're lucky enough to miss the magnetic bunkers on the left side of the fairway, you then have to deal with one of the toughest approach shots around. The pin was tucked in the back left corner on a plateau the size of your coffee table and the false front looked like it had a huge appetite for Titleist products. The pin on 6 wasn't much friendlier either and I could already sense that we were in for a challenge once the checkered-flag dropped and we were let loose at 9am. The Masters tees on 7 and 8 are at least 130 yards behind the member’s tee-box. One would easily confuse them for tee-boxes used on the back nine. With wet turf and heavy December air, the 7400-yard golf course was not going to be easy. As the time approached 7am, I stood on the fairway of the 9th hole remembering images of disappointment as approach shots spun back off the front. There are no easy holes at Augusta National, and the name of the tournament it hosts is fitting.
The 10th hole from the Masters tee is a 495-yard par 4 monster. The Georgia Pines will welcome with open arms any tee shot which does not move from right to left through the southern air. My first full-on view of the MacKenzie bunker sent a distinct chill down my spine. Despite the 40°F weather at that time of the morning, the bunker in front of me was the catalyst for the shivers rippling around my body. Although I've seen competitors play the 10th hole countless times, it was still the hole that 'kept me up at night'. The 11th from the tips is almost unplayable as a par 4 with this weather and the soft conditions. The beginning of Amen Corner requires a catholic priest, rosary beads from Bethlehem and some sort of divine intervention from the man above. It's that tough. You can see why so many players bail out to the right of the 11th green, hoping to rely on the short game to make par. Larry Mize was a lucky man. Standing on the 12th tee box at Augusta National all by myself made me feel like the luckiest man alive. The Hogan Bridge, Rae's Creek and the beautiful Augusta flowerbeds capture your heart. I literally couldn't believe what was in front of my eyes. One of Augusta's special charms is that it continually redefines the word "dream". One is left wondering if there is any place to land the ball on a green which feels like it’s three paces deep.
| As I stood on the 13th fairway, I was faced with the question of: “If I have the chance, should I go for it?” I know I wasn't the only golfer faced with such a challenge. It is a glorious view down to that green, although I couldn't help but remember the torment which Norman faced as the 13th green brought him to his knees; and Augusta out-swam the Shark. Mother Nature was working overtime all those years ago, and she left us with what can only be described as a Masterpiece. I climbed up the hill to the 14th green and witnessed the contours which wreak havoc with hopeful Masters. The tee shot on 15 seems wide open, however, as you stroll down the fairway, you realize that you must be down the right-hand side in order to have a clear view of the green. There is a lot of space over the green, however your chipping will be put through a gauntlet if you plan on getting up and down. If there was one image which I will remember, it's standing on back of the 16th green wondering how a particular champion chipped his ball into the hole to the soundtrack of “Here it comes ... Oh, my goodness! ... OH, WOW!! IN YOUR LIFE, have you seen anything like that?” Enough said. Being on that part of the golf course all by myself without thousands upon thousands of spectators was truly mind-blowing. Augusta National was mine – just for a brief moment. |
|---|
As I walked past the Eisenhower Tree and left the 17th green congratulating Jack from 1986 with "Maybe ...YES, SIR!" it was time to study the 18th hole. Only the human eye can appreciate how narrow it is up to that perched fairway. The Sandy Lyle bunkers command attention all the way up. The approach shot from the fairway seems reasonable, however the elevation comes quickly into play as the final yellow flag rustles in the wind. It's a mighty finish. The history with that green alone makes time stand still. I had walked all 18 holes at Augusta National and it wasn't even breakfast time. I had a smile on my face as I enjoyed my southern-style grits with scrambled eggs, although I was still worried about my footprints. I had accomplished all this before 8am and hadn't even hit a ball. My stroll around the 18 holes at Augusta National will remain in my mind beyond eternity and nothing can take them away from me. Breakfast was finished and it was time to play the course. Buckle up.
After four magical hours, we exchanged heart-felt handshakes on the 18th green. We hopped in a cart and quickly visited the new Masters practice range and the famous Par 3 course. Due to a delayed start-time of 9.45am, we ran out of time and daylight and had to postpone playing the Par 3. My lungs were working hard, I kept taking deep breaths just thinking about the history, the champions, the masters, the caddymasters and Presidents who have graced this property and further developed its character. Reality was nowhere to be found – welcome to heaven. Having toured the property and experienced all that the Augusta National Golf Club has to offer, I couldn't complain. New friendships had been established and memories had been ingrained in our minds. We ate a bite of lunch and headed back to the Berckman Cabin to pack up. Once again, we were back in that luxury van driving down Magnolia Lane. I couldn't help but look out the back window… just to get one more glimpse.
Article by Fergal O'Leary
The Hidden Experience of Playing Augusta National - Golf's Most Exclusive Course For travelling golf enthusiasts who dream of playing the world's top 100 golf courses, Augusta National Golf Club represents the ultimate bucket list destination. While millions watch The Masters tournament each April, few will ever experience what lies beyond the famous gates on Washington Road. This insider guide reveals the authentic Augusta National experience that television cameras never capture. Finding the Entrance: Augusta National's Understated First Impression Despite hosting golf's most prestigious tournament, Augusta National's entrance remains remarkably understated. Located on busy Washington Road in Augusta, Georgia, many first-time visitors drive past the discreet gates multiple times before finding their way. Unlike other famous golf courses with prominent signage, Augusta National relies on its reputation rather than obvious markers. The exclusive nature of the club becomes immediately apparent—guests must arrive with a member host, as no visitors are permitted without member accompaniment. Security measures include mechanical barriers and police officers who verify names before granting access to Magnolia Lane. Once inside, the legendary service begins. Mysteriously, every staff member addresses guests by name from the moment of arrival. "Mr. Lewis, it's lovely to have you," they'll say to first-time visitors who haven't yet introduced themselves, recalls Connor T. Lewis, who has been fortunate enough to play Augusta multiple times. This attentive hospitality creates an immediate sense of belonging that distinguishes Augusta National from other top-ranked golf destinations. The Historic Augusta National Clubhouse Experience The Augusta National clubhouse represents a fascinating piece of American architectural history. As the oldest poured concrete building in the United States (dating to the 1800s), it offers a surprising contrast to the grand southern mansions typical of prestigious golf clubs. Originally slated for demolition when the club was founded, financial constraints preserved what would become one of golf's most iconic structures. Inside, golf history surrounds you. The Trophy Room features oil paintings of founders Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in their green jackets, alongside President Eisenhower. Most impressive are Bobby Jones' actual clubs used to win the Grand Slam, displayed in the left corner—a must-see for golf history enthusiasts. The clubhouse ambience remains refreshingly understated despite its prestige. "You think that everything's gonna be super fancy? And it's very understated. It's very relaxed," observes Connor T. Lewis, reflecting on his first impressions of the club. This understated elegance extends to the on-site accommodations, where guests stay in cabins named after golf legends, complete with Augusta National-branded amenities and panoramic views of the famous first hole. A Secret Nighttime Tradition at Augusta National While playing Augusta National ranks among golf's greatest thrills, the most magical moments often occur after sunset. After dinner in the clubhouse, knowledgeable guests participate in a special tradition—a moonlit walk to Amen Corner. "If you told me for the rest of my life that I could only go to Augusta National, not to play, but just to take that walk, I would accept that with pure happiness," confesses Connor T. Lewis about the moonlit tradition he now shares with other guests whenever possible. Under full moonlight, the fairways glow with an ethereal blue hue as guests make their way toward golf's most famous three-hole stretch. What few know is that Augusta National illuminates the 12th and 13th holes at night with special lighting. These spotlights transform Golden Bell and Azalea into theatrical stages, creating one of golf's most sublime spectacles. Many visitors report feeling the presence of golf legends like Hogan, Snead, and Jones during these nocturnal pilgrimages—a spiritual dimension to Augusta that television audiences never witness. Playing Augusta National: What Masters Broadcasts Don't Show Television coverage flattens Augusta National's dramatic topography. In reality, walking the course involves elevation changes equivalent to climbing approximately 20 stories throughout 18 holes. By the 18th fairway, even fit players feel the burn in their legs—a physical challenge entirely invisible to viewers. The optical illusions throughout Augusta National demonstrate designer Alister MacKenzie's genius. Having worked in military camouflage during World War II, MacKenzie created greens that deceive the eye. Putts that appear to break dramatically left often move right, making Augusta's legendary caddies invaluable guides through this visual trickery. Even accomplished golfers face psychological challenges at Augusta. Connor T. Lewis, a single-digit handicapper, recounts snap-hooking his first three drives at Augusta despite normally being consistent off the tee. "I go to the second hole, par five, and snap-hook another drive. Now on two, there are a lot of options. Snap-hook is not one of them," he jokes about his nerve-wracking start. The intimidation factor of playing where Palmer, Nicklaus, and Woods made history can transform good swings into momentary disasters. Among the most challenging shots at Augusta National: The intimidating tee shot on the 18th hole (even from member tees) The deceptive par-3 12th where swirling winds confound club selection The approach to the 14th green with its severe undulations The Essential Augusta National Mindset: Enjoying Golf's Greatest Experience The most valuable advice from Augusta National veterans transcends technique: forget your score. "You miss the point of Augusta National if you're trying to shoot your best round or break 80," advises Lewis. "Just take the time to float on the clouds for a little bit." This wisdom extends to any top 100 golf course experience. The greatest tragedy would be visiting golf's cathedral and remembering only your frustration over missed putts. "You never know when it's your last," explains Lewis. "Lightning could hit you tomorrow, and that might be the last opportunity you get to walk those storied links." For golfers lucky enough to receive an invitation to Augusta National—or any prestigious course—the ultimate advice from Connor T. Lewis distills to: "Don't let your golf game get in the way of playing golf." Experience the World's Top Golf Courses with the Right Perspective Augusta National exists in two realities: the immaculate tournament venue millions see on television, and the spiritual experience few will ever know—where fairways glow under moonlight, where history whispers from century-old walls, and where playing becomes a pilgrimage. While most golfers won't receive an invitation to Augusta National, this perspective applies to all bucket-list golf courses. Whether playing St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, Pine Valley, or Royal County Down, the scorecard matters less than absorbing the experience. As you plan your next golf adventure to top-ranked courses, remember that scores fade but experiences endure. Float on those clouds while you can, for you never know when such an opportunity might come again.
Mastering the Menu: A Taste of The Masters The Masters Tournament is not only a showcase of golfing excellence but also a culinary tradition, with its concession stand fare becoming almost as iconic as the golf played on the greens of Augusta National. Among these, the Pimento Cheese Sandwich stands out as a fan favourite, a simple yet delicious testament to Southern comfort food. Here's a fun look at The Masters' famous concession food, including a recipe for you to recreate the iconic Pimento Cheese Sandwich at home. Pimento Cheese Sandwich The Pimento Cheese Sandwich is a staple of The Masters, beloved for its creamy, tangy flavour wrapped in soft white bread. Here’s how you can make it at home: Ingredients: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup of mayonnaise 1 (4 oz.) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon of finely grated onion 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper A pinch of salt Slices of white bread Instructions: Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, black pepper, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pimento cheese mixture for at least an hour to allow the flavours to meld together. Prepare the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the pimento cheese mixture onto a slice of white bread, then top with another slice to form a sandwich. Serve: Cut the sandwiches into halves or quarters, plate, and serve. Enjoy a taste of The Masters at home! Egg Salad Sandwich Another crowd-pleaser at Augusta National is the Egg Salad Sandwich, known for its creamy texture and simple seasoning. Ingredients: 8 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and finely chopped. 1/2 cup of mayonnaise 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard Salt and pepper to taste Slices of white bread Instructions: Combine Eggs and Mayo: In a mixing bowl, gently mix the chopped hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill: Refrigerate the egg salad mixture to cool. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the egg salad on a slice of white bread, then cover with another slice. Serve: Cut into halves or quarters and serve chilled. Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich For something sweet, the Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich is a delightful treat that celebrates the state's famous fruit. Ingredients: Vanilla ice cream Fresh peach slices Sugar cookies or shortbread cookies Instructions: Prepare the Ice Cream: Soften the vanilla ice cream slightly and mix in finely chopped fresh peach slices. Assemble: Scoop the peach ice cream onto a sugar cookie, then top with another cookie to make a sandwich. Freeze: Place the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer until firm. Serve: Enjoy a cool, sweet taste of Georgia at home! Recreating these Masters' favourites allows fans to bring a piece of Augusta National into their homes, celebrating the tournament's culinary traditions alongside the golfing action. Whether it's the tangy zest of the Pimento Cheese Sandwich, the creamy goodness of the Egg Salad Sandwich, or the sweet delight of the Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich, these recipes offer a taste of The Masters any time of year. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips.
Golf courses near to the Augusta National Golf Club Augusta National Golf Club, home of the prestigious Masters Tournament, is a hallmark of golf's rich history and tradition. While this exclusive course in Augusta, Georgia, garners global attention, the surrounding area offers several other notable golf courses that present unique challenges and experiences for golf enthusiasts. Here's an in-depth look at some of the other golf courses near Augusta National, each offering its own unique flair and test for golfers of all skill levels. 1. Augusta Country Club Located just a stone's throw from Augusta National, Augusta Country Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in the United States, established in 1899. This private club offers a classic Donald Ross-designed course, which was later updated by Perry Maxwell. It provides a traditional and challenging experience with its narrow fairways and small, undulating greens. The course is known for its scenic beauty and strategic layout, demanding precise shot-making from players. 2. Forest Hills Golf Club Forest Hills Golf Club is a public golf course that dates back to 1926 and is part of Augusta University's history, serving as the home course for the Jaguars. The course was originally designed by Donald Ross and later renovated by Arnold Palmer in 2003. This blend of classic and modern design elements offers wide fairways and expansive greens, but its true test lies in the clever placement of bunkers and the subtle contours of the greens. Forest Hills provides an accessible yet challenging round for golfers of varying abilities. 3. The River Golf Club Situated in North Augusta, just across the Savannah River from Augusta, The River Golf Club offers a blend of natural beauty and challenging golf. Designed by internationally renowned golf course architect Jim Fazio, this semi-private course opened in 1998. It features MiniVerde Bermuda greens, numerous water hazards, and strategic bunkering, making it a test for precision and strategy. The course's layout along the riverbank provides stunning views and a serene golfing experience. 4. Jones Creek Golf Club Jones Creek Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Evans, Georgia, is another gem in the Augusta area. Designed by Rees Jones with later enhancements by Tom Fazio, the course offers a challenging yet fair test of golf. With its rolling hills, dense tree-lined fairways, and beautifully maintained greens, Jones Creek delivers a memorable golfing experience. The course is known for its elevation changes and the natural creeks that come into play on several holes, adding to the strategic challenge. 5. Mount Vintage Golf Club Mount Vintage Golf Club is a semi-private golf club located in North Augusta. The club features a 27-hole championship course designed by Tom Jackson, offering a mix of rolling terrain, beautiful natural landscapes, and challenging water features. The course layout is divided into three nines: the Chester, the Vintage, and the Independent, each with its own distinctive character and challenges. Mount Vintage is celebrated for its exceptional conditioning and the variety of shots it demands, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 6. Bartram Trail Golf Club Named after the naturalist William Bartram, Bartram Trail Golf Club is a public facility located in Evans. This course stands out for its commitment to preserving the natural environment, offering a tranquil setting for a round of golf. The Rick Robbins-designed course features Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens, providing excellent playing conditions year-round. With five sets of tees, Bartram Trail is accessible to golfers of all skill levels, offering a strategic challenge with its unique blend of natural beauty and architectural design. Each of these courses near Augusta National offers a unique golfing experience, from classic designs that hark back to the golden age of golf architecture to modern layouts that challenge today's golfer. Whether you're a local resident or visiting for the Masters, taking the time to explore these courses can provide a broader appreciation of the rich golfing landscape that Augusta and its surrounding areas have to offer. Find out more about travel to Augusta National Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive US Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
