Masters Preview 2023
It snowed last Friday. But it’s spring. It’s Masters week. Here at howiehottakes.com, there is not a week we look forward to more. There are so many wonderful things about the Masters.
The website and app are the best in the business, period. Not just the business of golf, the business of having a website and app. The grass is greener than anywhere else (I learned that Augusta uses ryegrass which is greener than most other grasses, so makes sense). I also learned that the property was home to the first Azalea bushes in the United States, pretty cool I suppose. For me, nostalgia plays a huge role. I watched the Masters on their wonderful website as a young middle schooler while I was supposed to be doing other things. I was hooked. Looking back on it I think I can thank the Masters for really sparking my interest in golf. As a kid there was nothing cooler than watching a sport on tv, then running outside after it was over to try that sport out myself. I did this as the seasons changed, and one spring there seemed to be a golf club in my hands more than anything else.
I’ve tried to learn more about the course heading into this year. What a fun rabbit hole. I think my favorite hole (as of now) is the par 5 13th. The list of iconic shots hit on this hole is extensive, as it finishes off the famed “Amen Corner” stretch of holes 11, 12, and 13. They moved the tee back this year which they’re saying adds about 40 yards off the tee. They also say this takes the dogleg out of it and all the boys are just going to be firing straight balls. From the old tees my power fade (banana slice) fits this hole like a penguin in a desert, but I’m not playing it anytime soon! It does have the feeling of being tucked back in a low corner of the property (which it is). It must be quieter there than other spots, a true opportunity for the golfer to have a manic conversation with themselves. The fairway slants dramatically causing a guaranteed uncomfy lie for the approach shot. Can’t wait to see the wide shot photos of everyone taking aim at the green.
The biggest story pre golf shots being hit is that the LIV boys will be around. It will be interesting to see if everyone is on good behavior. I presume they will. I did catch a photo of past Masters champion and noted loser Sergio Garcia on his phone whilst on the course, a big no no even for a role model like Sergio. Let's get him mic'd up before weeks end! Brooks Koepka comes in riding high off of a win at LIV Orlando. I do hope some of these guys do well. The storylines would be busting off the screen. Too bad Commissioner Greg couldn't swing an invite, guess he'll have to watch on the app like the rest of us plebeians.
I am really excited to watch Bryson Dechambeau play golf. I don’t think it is going to go well for him. I can confidently say that I have not seen him hit a televised shot in months. Which is not a bad thing. He is so annoying. But we’ll see how he fairs on the self proclaimed par 68 Augusta National. I almost hope he wins (he's got no chance), but if he does, do you think Tiger will text him?
My boy Sungjae is revving up for his 4th Masters appearance. He finished T-8 last year after leading the opening round. I have high hopes for him this week, like every week. This is also his first Masters as a married man! He got hitched in Seoul, South Korea this past December. Good luck Sungjae!
Of course, Tiger is teeing it up. +6000 to win? Sureeeeeeeee.
Viewing this tournament is the easiest thing in the world. Check out all the info here. If you don’t have some kind of tv package with live channels, stream it on their website all week. It is delightful.
I have 3 picks:
Gotta toss defending champ Scottie Scheffler in there. I love Scottie.
Tom Hoge. He’s a meat and wheat player with stats that catch your eye. Shock the world Tom.
Keith Mitchell. Cashmere Keith is the best dressed player on tour. That = a Masters win if you ask me. Can’t wait to see his outfits this week. (he's also pretty good at golf)
Enjoy the green grass and pretty flowers!
