The Masters Preview

The Masters is always the most anticipated tournament of the year. This year it feels even more so than any other in recent memory. There are so many story lines and star power in the field but it all starts with Tiger Woods. As the Vegas favorite, will he finally find the winners circle again? Augusta National is a par 72 that measures out to 7,435 yards. The putting surface is bent grass greens which measure around 6,500 square feet. There is no rough on the course but you will find plenty of trees, pine straws, 41 bunkers, and 6 water hazards. The best part about the Masters is how its the same holes every year. Come Sunday afternoon, there will be nothing better than watching the back 9 at Augusta.

Notable Holes To Watch:

Hole 1 Tea Olive

This hole goes up hill with a slight dogleg right. The tricky part of the hole is the undulating green. Just ask Ernie Els when he started the tournament with a 7 putt on the 1st hole in 2016.

Hole 2 Pink Dogwood

A reachable par 5 in 2 but well guarded by 2 giant bunkers. Hit the ball in the right spot and it is an easy birdie but if you miss the results can be disastrous.

Hole 11 White Dogwood

This par 4 is the start of Amen Corner and quite possibly the toughest par 4 on the course. Water guards the left portion of the hole. There are very few holes on tour where you see pros leave the ball short and right. This is one of them.

Hole 12 Golden Bell

Many Masters titles have ended on this hole. The hole is daunting because of the swirling wind and Ray's creek protecting the green.

Hole 15 Firethorn

When the winds are favorable, this is a golfer's last good chance for an eagle. However, trouble lies beyond the green as well in front so pin point accuracy is a must.

Notable Players To Watch:

Justin Thomas

He is arguably the hottest golfer in the last 12 months. Thomas is a fun player to follow who should be ready to go after a much needed week off last week.

Joaquinn Niemann

He is waiting until after the Masters to turn pro but definitely the top amateur to keep an eye on this year. Joaquinn Niemann won 7 times last year which is impressive on any tour.

Matt Parziale

This 31 year old is living everyone's dream. He is a firefighter by day who qualified for the Masters this year with a win at last years Mid-Amateur Championship.

Alex Noren

He is the 15th ranked golfer in the world right now. This is his 1st full season on the PGA tour and Noren has already found himself near the top of several leader boards.

Bryson DeChambeau

The mad scientist is always a fun watch. Everything he does is so different from anyone else on tour.

For those trying to pick the winner of the Masters, here is one interesting note to leave you with.The past 20 champions have made the cut the year before.The last person to win and not make the cut the year before? Tiger Woods.