Tom Watson, who won the Masters twice, offers five bits of advice for surviving Amen Corner.
Stay dry
There’s a way to play each hole. Don’t hit it in the water at No. 11. Don’t hit it in the water at No. 12. Don’t hit it in the water at No. 13.
Stay left on No. 11
I usually hit a hybrid or a 3-wood off the tee, and I know where to aim it. I try to miss the green on the right side, and I’m very happy with a par on that hole.
Pick the right spot on No. 12
The main thing is to hit a solid shot and make sure you clear the water. To hit it the right distance, especially if the wind is blowing, is a monumental task, especially with the lead.
No. 13: Play it safe?
You can play it safe like Ben Crenshaw or Mike Weir did when they won. You play it to the right and lay up. It seems like you’ll always have a putt for a birdie.
No. 13: Go for it?
You can take the right and try to make an eagle, like the longer hitters do. I’m starting more and more to play the hole by laying up. As I’ve gotten old my longer shots are going in there a little flatter and don’t hold that green.
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