As Masters weekend has come and gone, and “Georgia On My Mind” is likely stuck in your head, our TVs have most likely been stuck on a constant image of golfing greens and people in high- end clothing watching the game from the sidelines. The almost 100 year tradition of the prestigious game has been held in Augusta, Georgia since 1934 and people all across the US, golfers or not, are drawn to the tournament. Whether it sparks a newfound love for the sport, the urge to bet on the game, or a get-together with friends, golf is so much more than a weekend in April. For most, golf provides a lifestyle of socializing, connections, and tradition. After watching the masters, you should be reminded about how much is behind the polos and visors, and how the players live their whole lives in hopes of making it to Augusta.
Getting to the Masters is not easy. This year, there are 95 total players partaking in the tournament, and to be a part of the select group you must win various championships including the US Open, the British Ameture, the PGA Championship, ect. Aside from winning these tournaments, if you have previously won the masters you are invited to play again. The talent and time that goes into making it to a four day tournament takes years for a player to do, as the youngest winner was the 21 year old Tiger Woods.
For those who qualify and accept their invitation, they play 72 holes throughout four days and compete for the green jacket. The green jacket is a strong symbol in the sport of golf and is the gift given to the player who wins the tournament. Aside from this jacket, winning provides a lot more than fame and clothing. The winner receives $3.6 million dollars, a membership to the Augusta National Golf Club and a lifetime exemption to the tournament, and their name engraved on the Masters trophy. The hard work pays off in extreme ways and the reward for practice and perfection is a life of wealth and recognition. These rewards for golf goes beyond winning the Masters. Whether you play at a local course or belong to a country club, golfing is a way to benefit your physical and mental health. While being active, you can also engage in conversations and form connections, growing who you know and what you know. As mentioned previously, golfing is a lifestyle that can get you further in life, even if that doesn’t mean attending championships and winning national titles.
Although the Masters has come to a close, and Rory McIlroy will go home with the trophy and green jacket, maybe it is the year for you to encourage some friends or family members to start golfing and officially understand the effort and time behind making it to the masters, and watching with full interest in 2026.