Many golf fans dream of going to the annual Masters Tournament, but those who do have to follow a strict set of rules. It’s been taking place every year since 1934 at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, which opens its gates to the public once a year for the golf tournament every April.
Tickets are awarded through a lottery system and it’s estimated that around 40-thousand “patrons” - the term Augusta National prefers is used to refer to fans - attend every day, but official numbers aren’t released for the event. Those lucky enough to get to walk the fairways are required to follow these rules.
- There’s a strict dress code - Attendees aren’t allowed to wear golf shoes with metal spikes or footwear with pointed heels, in order to maintain the grounds. Backwards baseball caps are “considered a rude violation of etiquette,” going barefoot is banned, along with wearing shorts, denim, untucked shirts and five-pocket pants.
- There is a bag policy - Clear bags aren’t required like they are at most stadiums and arenas, so patrons can carry backpacks, purses and bags, but they can’t be bigger than 10-inches by 10-inches by 12-inches.
- Outside food and drink isn’t allowed - You can’t bring it in with you, but the Masters is known for cheap concessions, like their iconic $1.50 pimento cheese sandwiches. Buying one of everything on the menu would only set you back $77.
- Flags, banners and signs are a no-no - Anything that could interfere with a patron’s viewing experience is not allowed.
- Music and yelling are prohibited - Nothing that produces noise or music is allowed in the gates of Augusta National. Shouting, heckling and using profanity could get you kicked out.
- Cell phones and cameras are banned - You can’t use phones, selfie sticks, or even smart watches and fitness trackers used for “phone calls, emails, text message and other photo, video or data recording and/or transmission.”
- There are also rules about chairs - Patrons can bring chairs or stools, but they have to be collapsable and have no arms. Walking the 18 holes is nearly a four-mile stroll, and you’re not allowed to sit on the grass, so many attendees buy an official Masters chair from the gift shop.
- Don’t even think about taking souvenirs - Patrons aren’t allowed to take anything from Augusta National’s grounds, like signs, golf balls, flags and sand. A guy tried to fill a cup with sand from the course in 2012, but was arrested and it ended up costing him an estimated $20-thousand.
Source: People