Only At The Masters.......

[10ClarionSt]

....are the fans called "Patrons". Anywhere else where there is a sporting event we have fans, spectators, supporters, crowds but at snotty Augusta they call them "Patrons". Dashed bad form I tell you. Bad form, I say! Snotty gits!

[Ken4155]

Are they the only course to use the term 'first' and 'last' nine, instead of 'front' and 'back'?
As to the term 'Patrons', you can blame co-founder Clifford Roberts who "sought to distinguish spectators at the Masters because he saw them as more than butts in seats." Some broadcasters are share holders and are required to use the term 'Patrons' and that's how they have been referred to for decades. Isn't Uncle Google wonderful? :-)

[10ClarionSt]

Thanks for that Ken. I used to work with a Cliff Roberts. Weird!
Anyway, as a "down-to-earth" golfer, I dislike that kind of thing. It's borne out of arrogance and snobbishness. Totally unnecessary.

[Ken4155]

Do you know the answer to my question, 10C? Genuinely interested.

[bobbinwales]

Ha. And yet you rubbished my comments about golf being seen as elitist/ more upper class than for unemployed poor peopel

[grumpy01]

Are poor peopel any different to other people?

[margarettom]

What is wrong with a long held tradition? Wimbledon still insist players wear white. Both golf and tennis are somewhat elitist sports, but both The Masters and Wimbledon are watched and enjoyed by many. Augusta is one of the most beautiful and easily recognised golf courses in the world and the organisers have a right to do as they want. At least the ‘patrons’ behave well unlike at other tournaments in America, where they continually shout ‘in the hole’!

[10ClarionSt]

Oh gawd!!!!! Thanks for the replies. I just love this website!! :o)