Masters spectators face severe punishments for carrying a mobile phone around the course at Augusta National Golf Club. Phones and other electronic devices are one of many items strictly prohibited during the tournament.
Augusta’s website features a lengthy ‘dos and don’ts’ page which tells those planning to attend the Masters what they can do. Some of the rules are obvious – such as not carrying weapons – but others are a little more niche. Those attending for the first time may be unaware that mobile phones are prohibited around the 18 holes and can be handed over at free check stands.
That ban is slightly relaxed for players and media, who are only banned from taking their phones onto the course. Fans are subjected to metal detectors and security to ensure phones aren’t snuck in.
Anyone found to be carrying a phone will be removed from the grounds and will be permanently banned from buying tickets. The ban also includes other electronic devices such as cameras and tablets. It is why fans are never seen recording or taking photos of the action at the Masters.
“I think that’s something that does set us apart,” Augusta National CEO Fred Ridley said of the policy in 2019.
“I think our patrons appreciate our cellphone policy. I know that we have now become an outlier, if not the only outlier in golf. I don’t believe that’s a policy that anyone should expect is going to change in the near future. I can’t speak for future chairmen, but speaking for myself, I think we got that right.”
Cameras are only allowed during practice rounds.
Other banned items include bags, backpacks, purses and packages larger than 10 x 10 inches, alcohol, beverage containers, golf shoes with metal spikes, flags, banners, signs, ladders, selfie sticks, radios, strollers, and walkie-talkies.
Chairs cannot have armrests and must be collapsible. Tickets cannot be sold within 2,700 feet of the grounds and anyone found guilty of doing this faces being arrested.
While alcohol purchased from outside the ground is banned, alcoholic beverages are sold to fans inside for around £3.92 ($5). Spectators cannot buy alcohol after 4pm however.
Ninety-five golfers are set to start the Masters on Thursday. It comes after veteran Vijay Singh pulled out yesterday. The 62-year-old, who won the tournament in 2000, has withdrawn due to an unspecified injury.
Singh had been due to make his 32nd start in the Masters. This will be the first year in which the starting field has not featured Singh since 1994.
