Augusta loses an icon
Augusta National officials have confirmed that the legendary Eisenhower Tree has been removed.
Perhaps the most famous tree in golf suffered during a recent ice storm where it lost most of its branches. It had to be pulled down over the weekend.
“The loss of the Eisenhower Tree is difficult news to accept,” said Augusta chairman Billy Payne.
“We obtained opinions from the best arborists available and, unfortunately, were advised that no recovery was possible.
“We have begun deliberations of the best way to address the future of the 17th hole and to pay tribute to his iconic symbol of our history. Rest assured, we will do both appropriately.
“I can report that the golf course sustained no major damage otherwise. We are now open for member play and we will be unaffected in our preparations for the 2014 Masters tournament.”
The iconic pine was located on the left of 17th fairway around 210 yards from the tee box. Its towering trunk and leafy branches forced golfers to shape their tee shot around the tree or run the risk of a difficult recovery shot from its shade.
The tree is named after former US president, Dwight D Eisenhower. Ironically, Eisenhower campaigned to have the tree cut down in 1956 after hitting it on many occasions. He was an Augusta member for 21 years.
Meanwhile, even golfing legend Jack Nicklaus had his reservations about the pine, though he admitted it was sad to see it go.
“The Eisenhower Tree is such an iconic fixture and symbol of tradition at Augusta National,” said the 18-time Major winner.
“It was such an integral part of the game and one that will be sorely missed.
“Over the years, it’s come into play many, many times on the 17th hole. When I stood on the 17th tee, my first thought, always, was to stay away from Ike’s Tree.
“I hit it so many times over the years that I don’t care to comment on the names I called myself and the names I might have called the tree. Ike’s Tree was a kind choice. But looking back, Ike’s Tree will be greatly missed,” concluded Nicklaus.
Latest
-
European TourViktor Hovland goes back-to-back in the Bahamas with Hero World Challenge win
The Norwegian held off Scottie Scheffler to win by two shots.
-
European TourHome favourite Thriston Lawrence survives late scare to win South African Open
The South African beat Clement Sordet by one stroke.
-
European TourAdrian Meronk wins Australian Open as playing partner Adam Scott misses out
Home favourite Scott held a one-shot lead going into the final round at Victoria GC but Meronk shot 66 to win by five strokes.
-
European TourPoland’s Adrian Meronk eclipses Adam Scott to win Australian Open
Despite taking the lead into Sunday, Scott was ultimately unable to repel Meronk’s challenge.
-
European TourThriston Lawrence and Clement Sordet set for final-day battle at South African Open
Thriston Lawrence leads his playing partner by two shots.
-
European TourAdam Scott leads Australian Open ahead of Adrian Meronk
Scott moved to 11 under on Saturday, one stroke better than Meronk at the summit.
-
European TourAdam Scott equals course record to share halfway lead at Australian Open
Scott carded five birdies and an eagle on the 18th at Victoria Golf Club.
-
European TourHole-in-one helps Tom McKibbin make strong start in South Africa
The 19-year-old holed out with a five iron from 232 yards on the 11th hole.
-
NewsA nice birdie-fest – Tiger Woods expecting low scoring Hero World Challenge
Woods withdrew on Monday due to plantar fasciitis in his right foot.
-
NewsAdam Scott relishing chance to experience a career first at the Australian Open
The tournament sees men, women and golfers with disabilities competing on the same course at the same time.