Miles Bennett
Golf fans are generally referred to as fans. However, spectators at the Masters Tournament, held at the Augusta National Golf Club, are called patrons. This tradition was started by Clifford Roberts, Augusta National's co-founder, who wanted to distinguish spectators at the Masters because he saw them as consumers of an experience. The Masters Tournament is the first major golf tournament of the year and is attended by around 170,000 golf fans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of golf fans at The Masters Tournament | Patrons |
| Name of golf fans at other tournaments | Fans/Crowds |
| Name of Arnold Palmer's fans | Arnie's Army |
| Number of golf fans expected to attend The Open at Royal Troon | 170,000 |
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What You'll Learn
Golf fans are called 'patrons' at Augusta National
Golf fans are generally referred to as fans or spectators. However, at Augusta National, they are referred to as "patrons". Augusta National, sometimes referred to as Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, or the National, is a golf club in Augusta, Georgia, United States. It is known for hosting the annual Masters Tournament, one of the four major golf championships.
The term "patron" was coined by Clifford Roberts, Augusta National's co-founder, who wanted to distinguish spectators at the Masters. He saw them as more than just spectators but as consumers of an experience, similar to patrons of a restaurant or an opera. Roberts believed that the spectators were what made the Masters possible, and hence, the use of the term "patrons".
The Masters Tournament, often called the Masters or the U.S. Masters outside of North America, is held annually during the first week of April. It is a four-day, 72-hole stroke-play competition with a smaller field of 90-100 players compared to other large tournaments. Augusta National is renowned for its well-maintained appearance and strict rules for employees, club members, and visitors (or "patrons").
The use of the term "patrons" at Augusta National is a unique tradition that sets the Masters apart from other golf tournaments. While some people may disagree with the use of the term, it has become widely accepted and helped maintain the exclusive and well-mannered standards that the event is known for.
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Arnold Palmer's fans were known as 'Arnie's Army'
Golf fans are generally referred to as "fans", although spectators at the Masters are referred to as "patrons". This tradition was started by Clifford Roberts, Augusta National's co-founder, who wanted to distinguish spectators at the Masters as consumers of an experience, rather than just passive watchers.
Arnold Palmer was a legendary golfer who had a unique go-for-broke style of golf that attracted a large following of fans in the 1960s. These fans became known as "Arnie's Army", a term coined by the press. The origin of the term dates back to 1959 when Arnold Palmer was the defending champion at the Masters. Many soldiers from the nearby Camp Gordon (now Fort Gordon) were working the scoreboards and joined his gallery when they found out he was the defending champion. This prompted one of the GIs working a back-nine scoreboard to announce the arrival of "Arnie's Army", referring to the large number of uniformed soldiers surrounding him. The phrase was later picked up by a reporter from The Augusta Chronicle, Johnny Hendricks, who ran the headline "Arnie's Army" for the first time, and it stuck.
Arnold Palmer himself recalled this event, saying:
> "I can’t remember another time, other than my stint in the Coast Guard, when so many uniformed soldiers surrounded me. A year later, when I won my second Masters title, I thanked the “army” of supporters who came out to follow me."
Today, "Arnie's Army" continues to champion the legacy of Arnold and his wife, Winnie Palmer, through grant-making and initiatives that support youth development, encourage strong character, and help children facing health challenges.
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Golf fans at The Open wear fancy dress
While there is no official dress code for golf fans, some choose to wear fancy dress to golf tournaments, including The Open. Typically, golf fans are expected to wear semi-casual attire, such as short-sleeved shirts or polos, and trousers or shorts. However, some fans take their outfits to the next level by donning fancy dress and costumes.
Golf fans are often passionate about the sport and express their enthusiasm through their attire. At The Open, the lack of a strict dress code gives fans the freedom to be creative and have fun with their outfits. While some fans may simply wear golf-appropriate clothing, others go the extra mile to stand out and showcase their unique personalities.
Fancy dress at The Open can take various forms. Some fans might wear costumes that are golf-themed, such as dressing up as famous golfers or incorporating golf props into their outfits. Others may choose more whimsical or humorous outfits that are unrelated to the sport. Creative costumes can add to the festive atmosphere and make the event more enjoyable for both the fans and the golfers themselves.
It's important to note that while fancy dress is encouraged, there are still certain restrictions in place at The Open. For example, fans are prohibited from bringing foldable chairs, pets (except service animals), and oversized backpacks. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid clothing with indecent, inappropriate, or offensive prints.
Overall, the combination of golf fans and fancy dress creates a unique and entertaining spectacle at The Open. Fans embrace the opportunity to express their creativity and passion for the sport through their outfits, contributing to the excitement and enjoyment of the tournament. So, if you're planning to attend The Open, don't be surprised to see a variety of creative and whimsical costumes alongside the traditional golf attire.
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Golf fans at The Open check their GPS watches
Fans of golf, or golf fans, are expected to attend The Open in large numbers, with around 170,000 in attendance at the Open Championship at Royal Troon. These fans are often referred to as 'patrons' at the Masters, held at Augusta National Golf Club, where the tournament organisers see them as more than just spectators, but consumers of an experience. This is not the case at other tournaments, where crowds are referred to simply as 'fans'.
Golf fans at The Open will often be checking their GPS watches to see how far away the bunkers are, and some will be showing their support for their favourite players with costumes, placards, wigs, and cigars. These fans are dedicated, with some even being referred to as 'Arnie's Army', the legion of fans of the charismatic player Arnold Palmer, who won over the hearts of fans with his exciting style of play.
Golf fans are a dedicated bunch, and their passion for the sport is evident at The Open, where they come out in force to support their favourite players and enjoy the experience of the tournament. They are knowledgeable about the game, and many will be checking their GPS watches to gain an even greater understanding of the course and the challenges the players face.
The Open attracts a wide range of golf fans, from those who are simply there to enjoy the atmosphere to those who are die-hard fans, dressed head to toe in orange or with a Miguel Angel Jimenez wig, shouting about their extensive knowledge of the game from the stands. These fans are a key part of the tournament, and their presence adds to the excitement and spectacle of The Open.
With so many fans in attendance, The Open is a highlight of the golf calendar, and the dedication and passion of these fans are testament to the enduring popularity of the sport. As they check their GPS watches, don their costumes, and cheer on their favourite players, these fans are an integral part of the unique atmosphere of The Open.
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Golf journalists refer to fans as ''fans' or 'patrons'
Golf journalists and writers often refer to fans as simply that: fans. However, at the Masters Tournament, hosted by the Augusta National Golf Club, the term "patron" is used to refer to spectators. This tradition is said to have been started by Clifford Roberts, the co-founder of Augusta National, who wanted to distinguish spectators at the Masters as consumers of an experience, akin to patrons of a restaurant or an opera.
While some journalists choose to use the term "patron" when referring to spectators at the Masters out of tradition and respect for the event, others opt to stick with the term "fan" regardless of the tournament. This discrepancy may be due to the fact that the Masters Tournament is an invitational event with a smaller audience, creating a more intimate and exclusive experience for spectators.
Outside of the Masters, golf tournaments tend to attract large crowds of enthusiastic fans. These fans often have favourite players and may express their support through costumes, placards, and other creative means. Some fans take their passion for golf and its history very seriously, while others are more casual observers who enjoy the social aspect of attending tournaments.
Golf, as a sport, has a wide range of fans with varying levels of interest and engagement. Some fans are content to watch the game from a distance, while others immerse themselves in the sport, learning yardages, studying winners of past tournaments, and even checking bunker distances with GPS watches. The variety of fans and their unique behaviours contribute to the overall experience and culture of golf as a sport.
While the term "patron" is specifically associated with the Masters Tournament, it is worth noting that golf, as a sport, has a dedicated and diverse fan base that adds to the excitement and popularity of the game. These fans, or patrons, play a crucial role in the golf community and its traditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Golf fans are typically referred to as 'fans'. However, spectators at the Masters Tournament, held at Augusta National Golf Club, are often referred to as 'patrons'.
Augusta National's co-founder, Clifford Roberts, wanted to distinguish spectators at the Masters. He saw them as more than just spectators but consumers of an experience.
Golf fans can be quite expressive and passionate about the sport. They often have favourite players and may show their support through costumes, placards, and other creative means. Some fans are very knowledgeable about the game and like to showcase their understanding of the course, yardages, and hole difficulties.
Arnold Palmer, a charismatic golfer who gained popularity in the late 1950s and early 1960s, had a legion of fans called "Arnie's Army".
