Home of the Masters since its inception, Augusta first played at 6,700 yards in 1934. In 1998 it played at 6,925.  Then the course changed its length to 7,445 yards for championship play.  Why is the course regularly altered and lengthened?  When the legendary Bobby Jones and the architect Alister Mackenzie designed the course, it was supposed to bring every aspect of golf into play: length off the tee, accuracy with the irons, short-game finesse and the ability to putt on treacherous greens.  With the advent of new club technology that allows players to hit the ball farther than ever before, there is a need to make sure that the course still provides the challenge that was originally intended.  Billy Payne, the newly anointed club chairman, states, "It’s up to us to preserve the challenges of the course from year to year.  We have to be vigilant and aware of how technology is changing the game”.

Whoever wins, Augusta’s recent changes are sure to figure prominently in the outcome. This year, Tiger Woods, who has dominated the PGA Tour since last summer, will be shooting for his third straight victory in a major championship, and the Augusta layout now seems perfectly tailored for him.  Mickelson will be trying to defend his Master’s title while still burdened by the memory of last year’s United States Open.  Whatever the outcome, it's sure to be an exciting match!