Augusta, GA … A cool $US1m a yard and a total of some $US27m is what it is going to cost Augusta National to extend the 13th tee by 27 yards into the adjoining Augusta Country Club course.
It is the only real controversial topic of discussion at this year’s Masters as Augusta seemingly seeks to ‘Bubba Proof’ the par five 13th hole, and in recent years rated one of the easiest holes on the course.
The tee had been ‘Tiger Proofed’ in being put back 20-25 yards in 2002 while seven yards was added to the front of the 13th tee in 2010.
Masters Chairman Billy Payne ‘reaching out’ to the media at today’s media briefiing
Masters Champion Billy Payne responded to the rumours remarking: “As we do every year, and historically forever, we are always looking at options for numerous of our holes.
“We create plans looking into the future, when we believe that the shot value of certain second shots, principally, has been impacted by how far the ball is now travelling.
“As a consequence, 13 is one of those holes we are studying. We have made no decision whatsoever. Plans are under way to be considered, and as I said, that is one of many holes that we now have under consideration.”
In layman’s terms, that means Augusta National probably will be lengthening the 13th.
