The ultimate dream of all golfers, pro or amateur, is to visit Augusta National for the Masters Tournament in April. Most of us, if we're very lucky, get to spend just one day at the Masters Tournament. There's nowhere on earth quite like it - the course, the characters or the atmosphere. Better yet, if you have time, you can spend some time in and around Augusta and maybe play one or more of the local golf courses.
The grass is greener here than you can possibly imagine, the greens themselves are like the finest of carpets, the players - great names that are already a part of golfing legend - are friendly, upbeat and accessible.
On a beautiful spring day when the azaleas are in full bloom, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the magnitude of the occasion. In years past I've attended some 12 British Open Championships - I saw Watson make that incredible 7 iron shot to the 18th green at Turnberry to beat Nicklaus by one shot. I followed Greg Norman around that same course - 1977 - he was just a kid back then, but amazing just the same. I watched Jack win at St. Andrews, Sevy at Royal Lythem and St. Annes - all incredible experiences, but none came even close to the amazing experience that is Augusta National and the Masters.
Over this, and the next 14 pages, I hope to give you a glimpse of what it's like - the incredible vistas, the characters and the crowds.
What you see here is THE iconic image of Augusta National - The 13th green at Amen Corner. Yes, it really is one of the most stunning views in all of golf.
