Over the years, GOLF has polled PGA Tour pros and our ultra-savvy readers about the quirks, extraordinary challenges and outright awesomeness of Augusta National. But when it comes to the Masters, there’s always more to learn. So, who better to school us than GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers in America? Their syllabus is below. Check back for more survey answers in the coming days!
What’s the best hole on the front nine at Augusta National?
“The very difficult 495-yard par-4 5th is a tough driving hole where you must avoid the severe bunkering left of the fairway. It’s 315 yards to carry or hit short or to the narrow fairway right. The hole gets even harder because of the false-front sloping green that is difficult to hit in regulation. Once on the green, there are few ‘easy’ putts!” — Ed Ibarguen
“The 495-yard 5th — ‘Magnolia’ — was lengthened by roughly 40 yards in 2018. Even with a very accurate bomb off the tee, players are still required to hit a longer club into the green — exactly what Bobby Jones wished for when he designed the hole almost 90 years ago.” — Carol Preisinger
“No. 1. A few things make this the best hole on the front. The anticipation and stress of the first tee shot of the day plays a big factor in scoring on that particular hole. For the right-handed player, shots that are hooked left go longer than shots that fade right. The design for the 1st hole does not setup to allow these misses.” — Mike Malizia
“No. 2. Amazing visual from the tee and with a solid drive you are sitting up at the top of the fairway with a chance of getting it there in two. It is also a great spectator hole for the second shot.” — Lou Guzzi