Augusta National Golf Club is probably the most famous golf course in the world. The only course to annually host a major championship, the exclusive layout is thrust into the spotlight for the Masters every April. Despite being very private with a restricted membership list, many golf fans know the Augusta National track as well as their local home course.
Players will once again attempt to make their way around the famed layout at this week's Masters. The course was lengthened significantly, and quite publicly, and it remains a challenging test for the best in the world. While it's undergone significant change to ensure it remains a challenge, Augusta National is never going to be confused with a U.S. Open level setup. Low scores can be had and rounds in the 60s will likely be prevalent. Those scores won't come easy, however, as the track requires precise and consistent play. It can bite quickly and severely if things aren't going well.
For the most part, Augusta National is the same course it was last year. Although there haven't been drastic changes, there will be a couple differences, including the absence of one notable course landmark.
No. 1 Tee Olive - 455-yard Par-4
Take a quick look at the opening hole at Augusta National and it appears to be a relatively soft landing to start the round. Looks can be deceiving and No. 1 is traditionally one of the harder holes on the course. The slight dogleg doesn't provide much of a challenge, but the uphill layout and undulating green do. Longer hitters may attempt to drive through the dogleg, but will need to carry their drive roughly 300 yards to clear the fairway bunker on the right. Whether it's with a wedge or a high-iron, players will need to be delicate with their approach shot into the green. The green on No. 1 is full of slope. Put your approach in the wrong spot and you'll be lucky to come away with a two-putt.