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Writer's pictureKevin Clontz

Behind the Greens: The Unsung Heroes of the Master’s Tournament




As the gentle breezes of spring begin to waft through the air, the annual phenomenon affectionately known as “the pollening” is upon us. This time of year often brings a mix of beauty and discomfort, with many grappling with the all-too-familiar symptoms of seasonal allergies like runny noses, stuffy sinuses, and relentless sneezing fits. Yet, amidst this seasonal shift, there’s a silver lining for enthusiasts like myself — the onset of the Master’s Tournament, a pinnacle event in the golfing calendar.


The Master’s Tournament is a tradition unlike any other, a time when the sport’s greats and its dedicated followers converge in a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sometimes, surprising outcomes. It’s a week where legends can be made in the blink of an eye, and even the mightiest can experience unexpected setbacks (a nod to the great Jordan Spieth’s misfortunes).


Every aficionado of the sport harbors cherished memories from the tournament. Iconic moments like Jack Nicklaus’s triumphant putt in 1986, Tiger Woods’s legendary chip in 2005, Phil Mickelson’s daring shot from the pine straw in 2010, Bubba Watson’s remarkable hook shot in the 2012 playoff, and Tiger Woods’s redemptive victory in 2019, are etched in the annals of golf history. These moments not only showcase the talent of the players but also highlight the intense drama and emotion that the tournament evokes.


However, the spectacle of the Master’s Tournament isn’t just about the players; it’s also a testament to the unsung heroes who operate behind the scenes. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure the event runs seamlessly, providing an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators. Managing such a colossal event is an immense challenge. Reflecting on my visit to Augusta National in 2012, I was profoundly impacted by the words of Jim James, Senior Director of Club and Hospitality Operations. He shared that his team dedicates 51 weeks each year to enhancing the tournament experience, striving to surpass the previous year’s achievements.


The logistical endeavor of hosting over 40,000 attendees daily at a sprawling 365-acre venue is monumental. It involves a meticulously coordinated supply chain operation, including a fleet of semitrailers, delivery drivers in Mercedes Benz Transit vans, and numerous carts, all working in concert to service cabins, hospitality tents, satellite bars, and concession stands scattered throughout the venue. While specific details about the Master’s concessions and merchandise sales remain closely guarded, the scale of consumption can be appreciated by comparing it to events like the Waste Management Open, where an astonishing 1.1 million beers are consumed during the week, alongside the use of 225,000 pounds of ice per day.


The tournament’s success hinges on the dedication of countless individuals, from bartenders and drink runners to ice runners, food servers, and buffet captains, many of whom endure 12 to 18-hour shifts daily. Their commitment ensures that patrons can immerse themselves in the thrill of the tournament, unencumbered by logistical concerns.


So, the next time you savor a beer on the lush greens of the course, or relax with a chilled

beverage at your local Member Guest event, take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the hardworking individuals who form the backbone of these experiences. Their unwavering dedication keeps the drinks flowing and the spirits high, enabling us to fully engage with the passion and excitement of the game.

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Guest
Apr 09
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Well said! Praise be the makeup artist that makes the actor look their best for the part...

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