I look forward to this week all year long! The world’s best golfers converge on Augusta National Golf Club for the Masters.
Contrary to popular belief, this is NOT a “PGA” event. In fact, the PGA has always been a bit jealous of the standing that the Masters holds in the hearts and minds of golfers worldwide. The Masters, born from legend Bobby Jones-is an independent event of the USGA-and a profitable one at that!
Naturally, the focus is on Tiger Woods, playing in his first major tournament following a season-ending knee operation. This, of course occurred AFTER he won the U.S.Open in dramatic fashion last year with a bum leg.
Who knows if Tiger will be able to pull it off? At this writing, he is into his second round and is several strokes off the lead. If anyone can do it, he can. There are other stories worthy of attention.
Greg Norman at 54, qualifying after his 3rd place finish in the British Open last year-has endured his share of pain at Augusta National. Besides a couple of runner-up finishes, his lingering legacy (and one that may unfortunately define his career) may be the complete MELTDOWN he suffered in 1996. He entered the final round with a 6 stroke lead and proceeded to become completely unglued-losing to Nick Faldo. Along with new wife, former tennis great Chris Evert , Norman has his “mojo” back and could contend this week.
There’s Padraig Harrington, who won the last two majors, looking for the “Paddy Slam”. Add to the mix names like Phil Mickelson, defending champ Trevor Immelman-and even aging former title holders like Larry Mize, who scored well enough in the opening round Thursday to be just a few strokes behind.
Here’s a little Masters clip of the AMAZING Tiger Woods chip in 2005 on Hole 16 to get ya juiced!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qkBFGpNPC0
No matter the spread-and no matter who wins, there will be drama galore-and long after the hidden eggs have been found and the chocolate bunnies consumed, my Easter Sunday will be capped off with TV viewing of final round Masters action!
If you’d like my blog in your box, let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
FORE!
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