Payne issued a statement Sunday indicating the Eisenhower Tree – the iconic pine that framed the left side of the 17th hole – was removed because of extensive and irreparable damage from the ice storm.
The famed Eisenhower Tree is no longer after an ice storm damaged the tree beyond saving.
“Like so many of our family, friends and neighbors in this community, Augusta National Golf Club has been busy cleaning up after the historic ice storm last week,” said Payne.
“Everyone affected remains in our hearts and prayers, and we likewise hope for a speedy and complete recovery for all.
“The loss of the Eisenhower Tree is difficult news to accept.
“We obtained opinions from the best arborists available and, unfortunately, were advised that no recovery was possible. We have begun deliberations of the best way to address the future of the 17th hole and to pay tribute to this iconic symbol of our history – rest assured, we will do both appropriately.”
Long-time Masters reporter Dave Kindred posted the following on twitter: “RT @DaveKindred: Ike wanted the damned tree removed from the 17th at Augusta. Cliff Roberts refused. God has now done it.”
The tree was named after Dwight Eisenhower, the former U.S. president who was a member at Augusta from 1948-1969. The story goes that he hit the tree so often that he campaigned to have it removed.
Payne added that the course sustained “no major damage otherwise” and that “we will be unaffected in our preparations for the 2014 Masters tournament.
