Competing in the Masters is an accomplishment for every competitor, but competing as an amateur is even more noteworthy. There are just a few avenues through which amateurs can qualify, and they each require outstanding play in the amateur ranks.
And once amateurs qualify, the week at Augusta National is different from all the professionals competing. From staying in the Crow’s Nest in the clubhouse to competing for low amateur honors, the week is a peak golf experience for those few amateurs lucky enough to earn the honor.
Masters amateurs have little chance of taking home the green jacket, but winning low amateur can springboard a talented player to becoming a household name. Tiger Woods earned low amateur honors in 1995 before winning the event two years later. If you can compete at Augusta National, you can compete anywhere.
This year, three amateurs have made the journey to Augusta to compete for one of the most coveted titles in amateur golf. Here’s what you need to know about the tk amateurs playing in the 2021 Masters.
1. Tyler Strafaci
Tyler Strafaci earned his spot in the 2021 Masters courtesy of his victory at the 2020 U.S. Amateur at Bandon Dunes. Strafaci plays collegiately for Georgia Tech where he has been selected to the All-ACC team three times and been named an All-American twice. Last year was a breakout season for the 22-year-old as he won the Palmetto Amateur and North & South Amateur in addition to the U.S. Amateur, and he was selected as a finalist for the Byron Nelson Award. This will be his first appearance in the Masters, and second appearance in a major championship (2018 U.S. Open).
2. Charles Osborne
Charles “Ollie” Osborne earned his spot in the field thanks to his runner-up finish at the 2020 U.S. Amateur. The SMU junior has two career amateur victories and is one of just 11 Mustang golfers to win multiple events in the same season since 1985. This will be his first major appearance.
3. Joe Long
Joe Long earned his spot in the 2021 Masters field with his victory at last summer’s Amateur Championship. Long defeated Joe Harvey in 33 holes of the final at Royal Birkdale, claiming his biggest win to date. He is currently ranked No. 48 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking and is making his first appearance in a major championship.
