The Masters, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, it’s one of the most famous tournaments in golf. Co-founded and designed by Bobby Jones, one of the most influential individuals in the history of golf.
A Successful Amateur Career
Born in 1902, Bobby Jones was the most successful amateur golfer to ever play. At the age of 21, he began a seven-year streak that was arguably the most impressive that the sport has ever seen. Jones consistently competed against and beat the most well-known professionals of his time, including Walter Hagen and Gene Sarazen. His success brought about tremendous popularity but he never golfed professionally. Instead, he made his living as a lawyer, golfing competitively on a part-time basis.
Jones retired at the young age of 28 but not before leaving an important mark on the game. Jones won a “Grand Slam” winning the four major golf tournaments at the time – the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, the U.S. Amateur, and the British Amateur. Jones won 13 of the 31 majors he played in during his career.
A Continuing Impact After His Playing Career
At the height of his career and retirement, Jones saw a tremendous amount of fame and publicity. Due to the constant attention, Jones desired to create a private golf club where he could golf in peace. As a result, Augusta National was designed by Jones and Alister MacKenzie opening in 1933. He founded the Masters shortly thereafter which was played a year after the course opened. Jones came out of retirement to play alongside the best players in the world during the Masters inaugural year. The Masters quickly became a media sensation and a big hit and has since evolved into one of the most respected tournaments in the world.
Jones was diagnosed with syringomyelia in 1948, preventing him from ever golfing again. The disease initially caused a crippling pain and eventually lead to paralysis which restricted Jones to a wheelchair during the later years of his life.
Jones was posthumously inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1974, three years after his death.
Inspired by Bobby Jones?
If you’d like to be surrounded by other golfers who share your respect for the beauty and etiquette of the game, consider joining the distinguished Men’s Club at Westlake Golf Course. Established in 1968, it is for regular, serious players who wish to establish and maintain a handicap while remaining active in tournaments and other club events. Visit the Men’s Club Website today to learn more.