Patricia Hannigan on The Masters

She’s been to The Masters and she knows her golf. Patricia Hannigan tracks the sport with a hawk’s eye and has a discerning view on how the tournament is played at The Augusta National. In this interview she shares the winner-bets, the best dressed and the iconic status of The Masters

[Q] Who has the best chances this Masters? [/Q]

[A] My guess is that it’ll be someone past successes at the Masters. It didn’t surprise me to see Adam Scott and Bubba Watson up at the top of the leader board after the first round. Bill Haas, first round leader came in 20th last year. So he to is comfortable on the course at Augusta National. That said, there’s a lot of golf left, and at this point the possibilities are many. I think Rory McIlroy is a good possibility butI’d LOVE to see Miguel-Angel Jimenez win. [/A]

[Q] What’s key to playing this tournament? Often a dark horse takes away the green jacket? [/Q]

[A] The ability to handle unexpected, uneven lies. I did an interview with past Masters Champion, Zach Johnson who said that practically every shot between the tee box and the putting green is going to need to be hit from a crazy lie. Also, the bunkers and water hazards create a course where strategy is key… and only the most studied balance of restraint and daring will win. [/A]

[Q] Since you have attended The Masters, what makes the atmosphere so electrifying? [/Q]

[A] The stellar field, The beauty of the course and the exclusivity of the event all combing to create the unique atmosphere of the Masters. I was impressed in a huge way during my visit (2011) by the complete absence of any kind of marketing/advertising: there are no sponsor/brand logos anywhere which is extremely rare today. Then there’s the architecture of the course that really lends itself to a resounding and dramatic finish. [/A]

[Q] How important is the presence of spouses, girlfriends on the course? [/Q]

[A] In addition to the support they (hopefully) provide for their men, the “WAGs” are part of the narrative that allows the more casual fan to connect with a particular player. At the Masters, this storyline that endears fans to a player is all the more compelling due to the prestige of the prize.

The Masters has this family feel to it as it hosts several side programs for children of players, the family during the Par 3 tournament and so on.

The Masters Par 3 tournament is by far the cutest, most enchanting event in golf. It lends a lightness and magic to Masters Week that’s appreciated by players and spectators alike.