The Secrets of Augusta National: Uncovering the Mysteries of the Famous Golf Course
Augusta National, one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, has a secret side that few people know about. From the lush green grass to a grumpy resident who refused to move out of the Augusta grounds, there are plenty of untold tales about the legendary course. The Express takes a closer look at the mysteries surrounding Augusta National, providing an insight into the home of the Masters.
The Secret to the Verdant Green Grass
One of the most striking sights when watching the Masters is the vibrant green grass that covers the course. The Express can reveal that the secret behind the greenest of green looks lies in the type of grass used. According to sources, Bermuda grass tees and fairways are overseeded with perennial ryegrass to achieve the desired colour. This unique combination is just one of the reasons why Augusta National’s grass is considered some of the greenest in the sporting world. As reported by the Express, "The lucid greenery leaps through the television screen, and for those lucky enough to visit Augusta National – or even play on it – the grass is described as some of the greenest in the sporting world."
The Angry Gran Who Refused to Move Out
When Augusta National’s chiefs were looking to expand their car parking options, the club spent a reported £155million ($200m) buying homes in an area just outside the course. However, they were met with one refusal – that of Elizabeth Thacker, who lived at 1112 Stanley Drive. The Express previously reported that the couple had built the house themselves back in the 1950s and, despite tax increases in the area, refused to move. Even after her husband Herman passed away in 2019, Elizabeth remained steadfast about her refusal. Interestingly, Elizabeth is also the grandmother of PGA player Scott Brown, who, rather ironically, has never featured as a player at the Masters.
£108m Practice Facilities
Augusta National has spared no expense in upgrading its practice facilities to among the best in the world. The Express can confirm that the club has invested over £100m ($140m) in the 18-acre practice facilities, which were opened in 2010. Designed by legendary golf course architect Tom Fazio, these facilities are strictly reserved for players competing in the Masters, Women’s Amateur or Drive, Chip & Putt Contest. Located on the grounds of an old car park, the facilities are a testament to Augusta National’s commitment to providing the best for its players.
Hidden Green Not Even Players Can Use
Not all areas of Augusta National are open to competing players. The Express has learned that a hidden practice green, located parallel to the 10th fairway, is only available to lodgers staying at an on-course cottage surrounded by a dense pocket of trees. According to Golf Digest, even professional golfers will struggle to gain access to this hidden gem.
Augusta Pond: The Site of Co-Founder’s Death
Clifford Roberts, co-founder of Augusta National, has a deep connection to the course. Tragically, Roberts took his own life on the banks of Ike’s Pond at the course, a year after stepping down as chairman. The Express previously reported that Roberts had been struggling with ill-health. A bronze plaque was later unveiled to commemorate Roberts’ life at the entrance to Augusta National. This poignant reminder of the course’s history serves as a testament to the complex and sometimes tragic story of Augusta National.
Conclusion
Augusta National, the home of the Masters, is a course shrouded in mystery and intrigue. From the secret to its lush green grass to the stories of its residents, there is more to this iconic course than meets the eye. As the Express has revealed, even the most seemingly insignificant details hold a deeper significance, adding to the allure and mystique of this world-famous golf course. With its commitment to excellence and its complex history, Augusta National remains one of the most fascinating and respected courses in the golfing world.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/golf/2039728/inside-augustas-masters-secrets-including
