Augusta National Golf Club, located in Augusta, Georgia, is renowned for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament every year. While the course itself is a masterpiece, a hidden gem within the club is the Crow’s Nest, a unique and historical accommodation for amateur players participating in the Masters. Let’s delve into all you need to know about the Crow’s Nest at Augusta National.
What is the Crow’s Nest?
The Crow’s Nest is an exclusive lodging facility situated on the second floor of the Augusta National Golf Club clubhouse. It has been a part of the club since its inception in 1931, making it an iconic part of golf history. The Crow’s Nest serves as a home away from home for the amateur participants during Masters week.
Accommodations
- Dormitory-Style Rooms: The Crow’s Nest offers modest accommodations. It consists of three small bedrooms, each furnished with two twin beds and a shared bathroom. The rooms are cozy and provide basic amenities to ensure the comfort of the amateur players.
Tradition
- Amateur Tradition: The Crow’s Nest is reserved exclusively for the amateur participants of the Masters Tournament. It upholds the tradition of amateur golf and is a nod to the tournament’s roots.
- Evening Gatherings: Each evening during Masters week, the amateurs staying in the Crow’s Nest are invited to gather in the common area. This fosters camaraderie among the players and provides an opportunity to relax and reflect on their Masters experience.
Historical Significance
- Rich History: Over the years, many legendary golfers have slept in the Crow’s Nest during their amateur days at the Masters, including Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, and Tiger Woods. These walls have witnessed the beginnings of illustrious careers.
- Jack Nicklaus’ Story: Jack Nicklaus has a particularly famous story associated with the Crow’s Nest. In 1961, he slept there as an amateur and later won the tournament six times.
Exclusive Access
- Restricted Entry: Access to the Crow’s Nest is extremely exclusive. Only amateur participants in the Masters are allowed to stay there. This adds to the mystique and allure of the place.
Amenities
- Common Area: In addition to the bedrooms, there is a common area with a small kitchenette, where players can relax and share stories.
- View of Augusta National: One of the most appealing features is the view. The Crow’s Nest overlooks the beautiful Augusta National Golf Club, providing an unmatched perspective of the course.
Special Privileges
- Honorary Starter: The tradition of the honorary starters hitting the ceremonial first tee shot at the Masters is closely linked to the Crow’s Nest. Many former Crow’s Nest residents have gone on to become honorary starters, symbolizing the link between the past and present.
- Green Jacket Ceremony: The green jacket ceremony, which is a significant part of the Masters, also has ties to the Crow’s Nest. Former residents have the privilege of presenting the green jacket to the newly crowned champion.
The Crow’s Nest: An Experience Like No Other
How to Stay in the Crow’s Nest
- Qualification: To have the honor of staying in the Crow’s Nest, an amateur player must qualify for the Masters Tournament, which is no small feat in itself. Qualification typically occurs through winning prestigious amateur tournaments or receiving special invitations.
- Invitation: Once a player qualifies, they receive an invitation to stay in the Crow’s Nest during Masters week. This invitation is highly coveted and marks the beginning of an unforgettable experience.
A Week in the Crow’s Nest
- Masters Week Routine: The week in the Crow’s Nest is marked by a unique routine. Players wake up early, enjoy breakfast together, and then head out to the course for practice rounds and preparation.
- Evening Bonding: Evenings are spent bonding with fellow amateur players, sharing stories, and soaking in the atmosphere of Augusta National. It’s a time to relax and appreciate the history and tradition of the tournament.
- Tournament Days: As the tournament begins, players leave the Crow’s Nest to compete on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National. They return in the evening to rest and prepare for the next day’s challenges.
The Legacy of the Crow’s Nest
- Inspiration for Aspiring Golfers: The Crow’s Nest serves as an inspiration for young, aspiring golfers. The dream of staying in this historic place motivates many amateur players to excel in their careers.
- The Passing of the Torch: When a player who has stayed in the Crow’s Nest as an amateur later wins the Masters Tournament, it becomes a heartwarming moment. It symbolizes the journey from the Crow’s Nest to the pinnacle of golf.
The Crow’s Nest in Popular Culture
- Books and Films: The Crow’s Nest has made its way into golf literature and films. It’s a symbol of the Masters Tournament’s allure and exclusivity, making it a captivating subject for storytelling.
- Masters Tradition: Mention of the Crow’s Nest is a cherished part of the Masters broadcast. Commentators often share anecdotes about the amateurs staying there and the tradition it represents.
Crow’s Nest Amenities
| Amenities | Description | Capacity | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bedrooms | Cozy sleeping quarters | 5 | Year-round | Shared by Masters players |
| Bathrooms | Private facilities | 2 | Year-round | |
| Lounge Area | Relaxation and TV | 1 | Year-round | |
| Kitchenette | Light cooking facilities | 1 | Year-round | Stocked with snacks |
| Wi-Fi Access | Internet for guests | 24/7 | Year-round |
Crow’s Nest History
| Year Established | Notable Guests | Remarkable Events | Renovation History | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player | Tradition of hosting past champions | 1995 – Modernization | Unique panoramic views |
| 1982 | Tom Watson, Seve Ballesteros, Lee Trevino | Growing popularity among players | 2012 – Technology upgrades | Access to the clubhouse |
| 2000 | Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els | Historic gatherings of golfing legends | 2018 – New furnishings and decor | Complimentary golf simulator |
| 2015 | Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, Jason Day | Continued tradition of Masters champions | 2021 – Enhanced security measures | Bird’s-eye view of Amen Corner |
| 2021 | Dustin Johnson, Justin Thomas, Bryson DeChambeau | Hosting the latest Masters champions | Future renovations in planning | Contemporary design and comfort |
Crow’s Nest Rules
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Players Only | Limited to past Masters champions |
| No Smoking | Strict no-smoking policy inside the Nest |
| No Guests Allowed | Only registered players can stay in the Nest |
| Quiet Hours | Respectful hours enforced for peaceful sleep |
| Security Protocols | Stringent security measures for player safety |
Crow’s Nest Legends
| Player | Year Stayed | Notable Achievements while staying at the Crow’s Nest |
|---|---|---|
| Jack Nicklaus | 1965 | Won the Masters in 1966, becoming a legend at Augusta National |
| Tiger Woods | 2000 | Secured his second Green Jacket and cemented his Masters legacy |
| Phil Mickelson | 2000 | Finished third, marking his first top-three finish at the Masters |
| Jordan Spieth | 2015 | Won the Masters, tying the tournament record with a score of -18 |
| Dustin Johnson | 2021 | Set a Masters scoring record with a dominant victory at -20 |
Crow’s Nest Memories
| Guest | Memorable Moments |
|---|---|
| Gary Player | Sharing stories with fellow champions in the lounge area |
| Arnold Palmer | Enjoying a home-cooked meal in the Nest’s kitchenette |
| Rory McIlroy | Taking in the breathtaking views of Augusta National |
| Justin Thomas | Playing friendly rounds of golf on the simulator |
| Bryson DeChambeau | Reflecting on his Masters triumph in the Crow’s Nest |
| Lee Trevino | Recalling his past Masters experiences with friends |
| Jason Day | Bonding with fellow champions over a game of billiards |
| Ernie Els | Watching classic Masters moments on the Nest’s TV |
| Tom Watson | Reliving his iconic chip-in at the 17th hole at Augusta |
| Seve Ballesteros | Signing the Crow’s Nest guestbook with gratitude |
Conclusion
The Crow’s Nest at Augusta National is not just a place to stay; it’s a living piece of golf history. It embodies the spirit of amateur golf and the tradition of the Masters Tournament. For amateur players, spending a week in the Crow’s Nest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects them to the legends who have walked the same halls and fairways before them. It’s a testament to the unique and storied legacy of Augusta National and the Masters.
