How Augusta National is working to grow the game of golf
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Augusta National Golf Club Chairman Fred Ridley has always made growing the game a priority.
And we’ve seen it play out in real time – the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and Drive, Chip and Putt, as well as special Masters invitations to international players.
It’s all in an effort to grow the game both here in Augusta and around the world.
As this generation of the game’s greatest players gathers on one of golf’s greatest stages, the next generation looks on with dreams of following in their footsteps.
And it starts right here in Augusta.
Each year, the club announces a new project in the community.
The latest is a partnership with Tiger Woods’ foundation to create a golf learning lab for kids in Richmond County.
“It’s amazing once you start giving, what happens and how many more opportunities are presented,” Ridley said Wednesday.
Opportunities for both future and current players.
The Augusta National Women’s Amateur had its strongest field yet, with 47 of the top 50 ranked amateurs in the world coming here to Augusta.
One of the criteria to make the Masters Tournament is by special invitation from the club.
Nicolai Højgaard got one this year – and found out he’d be teeing it up with his twin brother.
The news came at a good time.
“I was actually sick at that time. I was in bed feeling ill, and it was a good way to get the mood a little bit up,” he said.
Over the past three years, the club has given out seven special invitations.
Six of them went to international players in an effort to expand the game’s global reach, building the foundation to make sure the future of golf is in good hands.
Another way the club is reaching a wider audience is through its social media and digital channels.
You may have seen the videos on Instagram or Twitter.
The club has also added five hours of live coverage for the final two rounds, giving even more people a chance to watch the tournament.
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