Every spring, as a young girl, my mother and I embarked on an annual pilgrimage to The Masters. These mama-daughter dates were cherished moments that we treasured. We would walk the hallowed grounds for hours, following the golfers with awe and reverence. The atmosphere was almost sacred, with perfectly manicured greens and gardens that seemed to breathe tranquility.
And then came lunchtime. We would find our way to one of the concession stands and pick up something truly special – the Egg Salad sandwiches. These humble creations, wrapped in vibrant green waxed paper, held a taste that surpassed their simple ingredients. Creamy diced eggs combined with luscious mayonnaise, nestled between slices of fluffy white bread, created a symphony of flavors that was truly unforgettable.
The Augusta National Golf Club
The Masters is inextricably linked with the Augusta National Golf Club. My mother used to share stories of cutting class in the late 50s and sneaking into the club to join Arnie’s Army, the passionate fans of the legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. My cousin, a member of my grandfather’s side of the family, worked at Augusta National. As a child, I couldn’t quite comprehend why he chose to mow grass instead of working in an office like my father’s friends. It turns out, he held a prestigious position as the Assistant Superintendent, effectively the VP of those famous greens.
Flowers at The Augusta National
The Augusta National Golf Club is a meticulously curated paradise of vibrant greens, interrupted only by bursts of red, white, pink, and coral azaleas. Augusta is synonymous with these beautiful flowers. Rumor has it that the groundskeepers go to great lengths, even employing ice or heat treatments, to ensure that the azaleas reach their peak bloom during The Masters. The level of detail is astonishing, from the carefully chosen shades of green for anything introduced into this world to the translucent green wax paper that lovingly envelops the sandwiches. Everything blends seamlessly, like golf camouflage, creating an exquisite experience for all patrons fortunate enough to secure a ticket.
Designed by Georgia native Bobby Jones, the Augusta National Golf Club occupies the land that was once a commercial nursery. Interestingly, it stands just around the corner from the cemetery where many of my relatives rest. I have passed those green fences countless times, never fully aware of the beauty that lay hidden within.
The Augusta National is renowned for its exceptional beauty, with majestic pines and vibrant dogwoods, redbuds, camellias, and banks of azaleas adorning the fairways and surrounding the emerald greens. Each hole bears the name of a plant or shrub, adding further charm to this golfer’s paradise. Notably, Hole Number 13, aptly named Azalea, has achieved legendary status.
Masters Egg Salad Sandwiches
Once upon a time, the famous Egg Salad Sandwiches were made offsite and brought to The Masters. However, the secret recipe is now guarded within the Augusta National itself. This iconic sandwich continues to be offered at a remarkably affordable price, not exceeding $2.00. The Masters’ Egg Salad Sandwich stands as a true legend, just like the greens themselves. Every time I take a bite of an egg salad sandwich, memories of my dear Mama and The Masters come flooding back.
Thank you for joining me on this journey down memory lane. If you’d like to explore more delightful EGG recipes, feel free to check them out here.
Bon Appétit Y’all!
Virginia Willis
