AUGUSTA - Typically, the Hooters on Washington Road would be a madhouse during Masters Week.
This is, of course, far from a typical Masters Week.
Coronavirus forced the annual event from its usual springtime date deep into the fall. With the virus still raging, though, the tournament is being held without fans.
“Traditionally a harbinger of spring, this year, the Masters ushers autumn,” the tournament, steeped in tradition but proficient at social media, posted to its Twitter account.
The Augusta National grounds are as famously lush and pristine as ever - a few azaleas blooms are gamely holding on. But drive around town, and you’d hardly guess there was anything happening.
The Partridge Inn Augusta on Walton Way was missing its usual tournament bustle. Rooms there could be had for $224 according to its booking site. Try finding any vacancy, much less an affordable one, during a normal Masters.
At the Washington Road Hooters, there was plenty of parking, since John Daly’s RV wasn’t there. Usually, the effervescent pro is there hawking merch and signing autographs.
Traffic inside the Hooters, always overflowing with golf fans during the tournament, was just a little steady. Golf played on TVs above the bar, but hardly anyone seemed to be watching.
Maxwell Simpson of AB Beverage Company hoped the mood would shift Thursday night once the suds start flowing from the portable bar he set up in Daly’s usual spot.
“We’re hopeful that any patrons that are in town will on Washington Road and will come watch the highlight reels and drink a few beers,” he said.
Augusta author Rachel Balducci and her family sometimes attend the tournament. Other years they check out adjacent festivities like concerts. Her high school and college-age sons have enjoyed working there in years past. None of that’s happening now.
“I’ve learned to navigate the crowds during Masters Week so that doesn’t bother me,” she said of the usual influx. "I do feel for all the people who use this week for extra income. So many people in a variety of industries make money this week and that has not been an option for them. Also, there is generally an air of excitement that is very much lacking.”
Credit: Ryon Horne
Credit: Ryon Horne
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