These eerie photos show deserted Augusta entering would-be Masters Week

As originally scheduled, Friday, April 3, would have been the practice round for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. The grounds of Augusta National would have been abuzz with activity: vendors, landscapers, sponsors, TV people all getting ready for the week-long bonanza.

Saturday would have marked the beginning of televised competition with the ANWA’s final round. Sunday would have meant the Drive, Chip and Putt. Hotels would have been filling up with golf industry people, spectators, players, families. Restaurants would be bustling.

The reality of the situation is far more grim, and not just for golf fans — so much of the Augusta economy is dependent on the weeks around the Masters that a lost year puts many local businesses in serious jeopardy. The closed gates of Augusta National represent lost wages, unsold merchandise, shuttered restaurants and empty hotel rooms. Among the many reasons to root for the staging of a fall Masters is to boost these businesses.

Instead, Atlanta-based photographer Kevin C. Cox captured the reality of the scene in Augusta. His photos are below — and here’s some dystopian Masters music to listen to as you make your way through them:

Guys, @Jhoust7 wrote this Masters (sad version) theme song and it'll really make you feel some type of way pic.twitter.com/WbnaGiWQjf

— Dylan Dethier (@dylan_dethier) April 2, 2020

TBonz Steakhouse is typically a hub of Masters Week activity. “Augusta Strong,” the sign reads instead. “We’re in this together.”

Rae’s Coastal Cafe has changed to curbside service only due to the coronavirus.

A view of Honey From the Rock Cafe on Washington Road.

Empty parking areas on Berckmans Road will remain empty over the coming days.

Even southern staple Waffle House is closed.

John Daly typically makes the Hooters parking lot home to his RV for the week. Instead, the restaurant is shut down — except for pickup orders — in accordance with mandatory closures.

All church activities have been suspended at Lake Park Baptist Church.

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