Last year, Stephen Hennessey and I (Christopher Powers) were fortunate enough to win the Masters media lottery. This allowed us the opportunity to play Augusta National Golf Club one day after Jon Rahm’s triumph. We won’t delve into all of the specifics now, but if you’re interested in learning more about our experience, feel free to read about it here or listen here.
Although most individuals in the media participate, only six groups of four players (24 spots) are available. This is comparable to a coveted golden ticket that grants access to Willy Wonka’s factory; and much like the famous chocolate manufacturer, it lives up to all expectations – minus the disappointing absence of an actual chocolate river.
One member of the media abstains from participation for two compelling reasons. Esteemed broadcaster Mike Tirico, who recently provided commentary on the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and Drive, Chip and Putt tournaments, will be featured this week on SiriusXM PGA Tour radio. He’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Augusta but won’t have an opportunity to play his best round yet during post-Masters Monday.
Tirico clarified during The Loop podcast’s latest episode, “The reason I don’t participate [in the entry process] is that I’ve already been chosen several years ago. It would be unfair to someone else if I were selected again.”
Surprisingly, Steve and I are acquainted with several individuals who have won the lottery twice. While we wouldn’t mind becoming a part of that group ourselves, it’s been made clear to us that re-entry is prohibited for at least seven years. We certainly won’t be anxiously awaiting 2030.
Tirico is such a great person that he played it for the second time regardless.
On a subsequent occasion, I had the opportunity to play it once again. Let me share with you one noteworthy piece of information about Augusta National – despite my many attempts at golfing there, achieving a hole-in-one has eluded me thus far. Nonetheless, someday in the future an email will circulate declaring that after playing alongside me on any given course, people will no longer have nightmares about never witnessing my achievement; for I shall finally achieve this feat. In fact, on the sixth hole during my most recent visit came closest than ever before to attaining that elusive 1 shot.