THE MASTERS!

Observation of the Day!

Today the 2008 Masters begins. It is a sure sign that spring has arrived and a new golf season is descending on the colder climates. The Masters is one of the rich traditions in this tradition rich sport. Change is almost not in the vocabulary of the Masters. The membership at Augusta National is strictly male blue blood. There is no membership waiting list, you must be invited. They simply have told the feminist that someday there may be a woman invited to join, but Augusta National will decide when. Take that Martha Burke.

One of the friendships I have developed at the Coronado Golf Course is with Caesar Sanudo. Caesar played in the Masters both as a amateur and a PGA touring professional. One of his favorite stories is about staying in the crow's nest in the Augusta club house. It is a tradition that amateur players all stay in a dormer in the crow's nest of the club house. He tells of a gentleman who introduced himself as the person to take care of any needs of the young golfers. It turned out he was a member of Augusta National assigned to this concierge task. Caesar and his roommate wanted to go out to eat. The member was called, and they were driven to the restaurant. On the way Caesar asked what the man did for a living. He replied, " I am president of United States Steel."

As they like to say, the tournament begins on the back nine on Sunday. The Green Jacket will be awarded, helped by last year's winner, and the tradition continues.

I for one will be watching.

Have a nice day!

Sam