Today starts the 2011 Masters in all of its glory and pageantry. From the all white caddy jumpsuits to the green jackets, from Amen Corner to the Butler Cabin, the Masters is more steeped in history and tradition then almost any tournament in the world, and it all begins once again. This is SBNBA's complete preview of the Masters tournament, as well as Augusta National itself, the players, and predictions of who will be victorious.
The Course: The 7435, par 72 course was founded by the legendary Bobby Jones and designed by Allister MacKenzie in 1933 and has hosted the Masters tournament since 1934.
The Field: The 99 player field consists of players from 22 different countries. 6 of the players are amateur invitees who qualified for the tournament.
Players to Watch:
Phil Mickelson- Coming off his win last week at the Shell Houston and his three green jackets the last few years, Phil is almost always a top pick to win at Augusta National. Look for him to be agressive again this week defending his championship.
Tiger Woods- Superman has fallen from grace, but he still has 5 green jackets. People used to watch to see Tiger win, now they watch to see if this will be the week he returns to form. I think it could be.
Martin Kaymer- The current #1 golfer in the world has never made a cut at the Masters before, but since his PGA Championship last August, he's been lights out. I expect him to have a very good week.
Rory Mcllroy- The youngster from Northern Ireland is an up-and-coming fan favorite who is still looking to break out with his first major victory. His best finish is a T20 in 2009, I think he will do improve on that in 2011.
Anthony Kim- Another incredibly talented youngster, Kim set the record for most birdies in a round at Augusta with 11 in 2009. He finsihed third here in 2010, and I see him as a real contender for the green jacket this year.
Rickie Fowler- the 2010 PGA Rookie of the Year will be playing in his first Masters this year, and has the talent to make a big splash this weekend, I just hope it's not in Ray's Creek.
Predictions:
Winning Score: -5
2011 Winner: Tiger Woods
Dark Horse: Nick Watney