Local Residents Ready to Watch Golf’s Masters

Over the last 15-years, the first week of April has become a favorite of Joseph Burton. Budding trees, the welcoming of warmer weather and his latest hobby, watching The Masters Tournament on television.

It was 15-years ago Burton, 75, of Falls Church took up an interest in golf. Several thousand dollars later in golf fees and equipment, he’s hooked on the prestigious golf tournament.

“I really enjoy watching the legends and greats go at it,” said Burton, a retired mechanic. “I’m nowhere as good as those guys but I study the swings and short game those guys have and I always come away with new trick.”

Established in 1934 in Augusta, Ga., The Masters Tournament is one of golf’s four major championships. The elite golfers compete for a chance to win the coveted green blazer given to the tournament’s winner. This year’s field of golfers consists of 93 professional golfers and six amateurs. The tournament tees off Thursday morning and concludes Sunday.

Bob Collins, 68, of Arlington, said he too will be watching the golf tournament. He said he golfs twice a week when he can and in no way is good enough to ever compete in the tournament.

“I like watching those guys play,” Collins said outside a Falls Church supermarket on Monday. “I don’t even like telling my friends my handicap. I’d be the butt of all the jokes if I ever told them.”

Click here for more information on The Masters schedule and times.