Perhaps many are wondering why The Masters Golf Tournament is played at Augusta National in Augusta, Georgia. Well it is simple because no other golf course in the world can compare with the beauty and prestige of Augusta National. In addition, it is also one of the exclusive golf clubs that comes with a very challenging golf course with an unofficial rating of 76.2.

This historic golf club was founded by Bobby Jones on the site of a former tree nursery and was opened in 1933. Since 1934, it has been the venue for The Masters Golf Tournament which is one of the four major championships in the area of professional golf.

To the avid fans of The Masters, Augusta National is like a second home. The golf course itself boasts of botanic beauty which brings one closer with nature. The surroundings of Augusta National come alive especially during the first weekend following the first full week in April when The Masters take place. It is also during this time that the flowers of the trees and shrubs bordering the course are in full bloom.

The Augusta National hosts several natural features. “The Big Oak Tree” is about 145-150 years old and is located on the golf course side of the clubhouse. Meanwhile, the Eisenhower Tree which is actually a loblolly pine is found on the 17^th hole and is named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower who was an Augusta National member.

Other natural features found in the golf course include the Ike’s Pond and Rae’s Creek. Ike’s Pond was actually the site where President Eisenhower suggested a dam should be constructed. It is found on the eastern part of the grounds. On the other hand, Rae’s Creek cuts across the southeastern corner of the Augusta National property. It got its name from Augusta National’s former property owner, John Rae who passed away in 1789.

Furthermore, even the golf holes in this exclusive golf club are named after flowering, aromatic trees and shrubs. For instance, the first hole is named Tee Olive while the second hole got its name from Pink Dogwood. Flowering Peach, Flowering Crab Apple, and Magnolia make up holes numbers three to five. Jumper, Pampas, Yellow Jasmine and Carolina Cherry follow them respectively.

Camellia, White Dogwood, Golden Bell, Azalea, Chinese Fire, Firethorn, Redbud, Nandina, and Holly are holes numbers 10-18 which make up the In-Par 36 with a total of 3,710 yards.

The natural beauty of Augusta National indeed makes it the best place for the annual Masters Golf Tournament. It has a Course Rating of 76.2 and a Slope Rating of 148, which pose a challenge to those who want to get The Masters title. 

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