‘Why Do They Do This?’: Golf World Reacts to Massive Augusta National News

One of the famed Augusta Masters’ holes is getting a new look. The 13th hole at the iconic course, Azalea, has reportedly been extended. The re-design ends years of speculation about the plans to increase the hole’s yardage, which should be in full capacity at the next year’s Masters Tournament.

Increased yardage in store at the Augusta Masters

The wheels were spun to action in 2017 when Augusta National, which holds the Masters Tournament, purchased land from the neighboring Augusta National Country Club. There were multiple reports of an increase in yardage at the course, including the Azalea. The reason? An upsurge in range hitters on the course.

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The iconic venue has become a victim of golfers’ ability to reach distances like never before. With technological advancements alongside a strict eye toward fitness, an old venue like Augusta stood in need of renovation.

Work remained stalled, however, with Masters chairman Fred Ridley claiming there was “no timetable” to extend the hole. “At some point in time, it’s something that we likely will do. We just don’t have anything to say about it right now,” he said in April.

However, there was a renewed sense of optimism when the 11th and 15th holes were lengthened. The new holes were ready by the time Masters 2022 rolled in. In June this year, the course was closed during summer with an image showing work in progress on the Azalea.

The recent photo has all but confirmed the presence of an extended tee box at the hole, which has caught the eye of golf enthusiasts all over the world. Many were relieved by the latest developments, but some felt the changes didn’t adhere to the course’s historic roots. Here’s a section of those tweets.

Was Azalea in need of a makeover?

For many, the hole required a significant revamp. Historically, the Azalea has been one of the easiest holes at the Augusta, averaging 4.77 at the par-5 hole. It favors the big hitters, who opt against the long irons to drive over the trees to cut the corner and give them an advantage.

However, it has made little progress over the years. The hole measured 480 yards back in its inaugural year in 1934. But the recent upliftment will surely come as a boost to the course’s challenges.

But what will be the increased yardage at the hole? Will it be enough to prevent disparity among golfers? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

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