(Podcast length 4:40 mins)
While golf seems so unapproachable with uptight rules and golf claps, the Masters has some fun quirks. Here’s what to say, what not to do and why a green blazer is a coveted fashion statement.
Transcript
1. The Masters is the only one of the four Major tournaments in the PGA (Professional Golfers Association) that doesn't change locations - it's always at Augusta National Golf Course. Becoming a member of this iconic course is somewhat of a mystery. There are no criteria listed for membership, and the list of members is not public. Ron Townsend was named the first Black member in 1990, and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice became the first woman member in 2012. (There are now only six women members). TEEING OFF
2. A longtime broadcast partner of the tournament, CBS, admitted they edit in melodic bird sounds during the telecast to enhance the programming and make it feel more like a "natural paradise," even though spectators have noted the lack of birds on the course. This year's tournament coverage is split between CBS and ESPN, so tune in to see if the networks are consistent with their nature sounds. TWEET TWEET
3. The famed Champions Dinner happens on Tuesday evening before the tournament. It's tradition for the previous winner to select the menu for the celebrated feast between all the former Masters winners. The menu selected by last year's winner and the first Japanese player to ever win The Masters, Hideki Matsuyama, will make you hungry. The menu included sushi, miso glazed black cod, Miyazaki Wagyu and a Japanese strawberry shortcake. Still, it has nothing on the Masters' cheap concessions of $1.50 pimento cheese sandwiches and a $5 beer. Sadly for everyone at Augusta, supply chain shortages mean no famed Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwiches will be available this year. GREAT FOOD, GREAT COMPANY
4. The biggest story to watch on the course is who's there and who's not. After suffering devastating injuries from a car crash, Tiger Woods is back, shocking everyone. Woods said he’s ready to play for his sixth green jacket and no, he will not be using a golf cart. Three-time champion Phil Mickelson will miss The Masters for the first time since 1994 due to his controversial comments about Saudi Arabia and the Saudi-based golf league. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT
5. The famed green jacket became a tradition in 1949. Members of the club decided on the color green so fans in attendance at the tournament could spot them if they had questions. The Masters winner also receives a green jacket. The winner is allowed to have the green jacket for one calendar year. After that year, they're only permitted to wear it when they're on the grounds of Augusta. NO TAKE-BACKS
Sports Curious, presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or networking event switches to sports.
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