As one of the best golfers on this planet collect in Augusta, Georgia, this week for the Masters match, some gamers are already noticing a big change within the iconic panorama. These adjustments will probably be detected as effectively by roughly 40,000 followers who go to Augusta to absorb the match from Thursday to Sunday.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership with a noticeable change in its lush greenery.
The Class 4 storm hit in September, ripping by way of the Southeast and taking lots of of bushes down at Augusta Nationwide.
On the time, Augusta Nationwide chair Fred Ridley stated in a press launch that the membership’s focus was on guaranteeing the protection of the group.
“Our Augusta group has suffered catastrophic and historic influence from Hurricane Helene,” stated Ridley.
Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership in Augusta, Georgia, misplaced lots of of bushes (not pictured) following the destruction of Hurricane Helene final fall. (Joe Raedle/Getty Photos)
Gamers in pursuit of the coveted inexperienced jacket have seen that some holes have been thinned out, probably presenting new assault plans.
The par-four tenth gap has sparked probably the most conversations, with golfers noting the lack of bushes on the left aspect of the green, The Related Press (AP) reported.
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“In case you are feeling extraordinarily harmful, there’s a bit hole on the left aspect of the bushes the place you’ll be able to sort of hit it by way of,” Xander Schauffele stated, based on AP.
Schauffele added, “It is a bit dangerous, however previously your ball would hit a tree there and fall 90 ft from the tee field … However for probably the most half, I feel the course goes to play the very same as earlier than.”
Hurricane destruction has altered Augusta Nationwide Golf Membership in Augusta, Georgia, with gamers commenting on the bushes which have gone lacking. (Jamie Squire/Getty Photos)
“I used to be taking a look at bushes. It nearly felt like I used to be enjoying the again 9 for the primary time,” stated the nine-time PGA Tour winner.
Schauffele additionally stated “it is fairly loopy and unhappy” to see what number of bushes have been eliminated on account of the storm.
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Augusta Nationwide is famend for its magnificent magnolia bushes, which lend their identify to the enduring “Magnolia Lane” on the membership’s entrance.
Many holes on the course are named after bushes or flowers in proximity, such because the second “Pink Dogwood” and the thirteenth gap “Azalea.”
Seen right here is the thirteenth gap at Augusta, referred to as “Azalea.” (Augusta Nationwide/Getty Photos)
Jon Rahm additionally shared that he is heard conversations about attainable new routes on the tenth tee.
“Anyone did inform me you’ll be able to hit a excessive reduce over the cabins on 10. I do not consider it,” Rahm stated, based on AP.
The 2023 Masters champion stated that he’s a bit skeptical of adjustments in play over the lack of the bushes.
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“I do not see there’s an opportunity the place so many bushes fell the place that is a risk,” he stated.
“I’ve heard from members which you can inform there is a distinction. Whenever you’re wanting down the property, you’ll be able to see a bit bit additional down.”
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Rahm did say there’s a “visible change” to the opening.
Rory McIlroy commented on the lacking bushes on ten, apparently making the tee shot much less intimidating — and that there’s a little extra room on the par-four third proper aspect given the lacking overhanging bushes.
Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters champion, stated there’s a “visible change” to the opening. (Katie Goodale-Imagn Photos)
“However actually, other than that, I feel it is just about the identical … Undoubtedly a few tee photographs look a bit bit totally different,” stated McIlroy, based on AP.
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Fox Information Digital reached out to Augusta Nationwide and the PGA Tour for additional remark.
The Related Press contributed to this report.