The Masters is finally here, and thousands will be descending upon the CSRA during the next week. For those who will be entering Augusta National Golf Club, club officials have a few things to keep in mind regarding what is and isn't acceptable on golf's hallowed ground.
Robert "Bobby" Jones, one of the club's founders, wrote in the club's "Conduct, Customs and Etiquette" that decorum is just as important in golf as the rules governing play, and that applauding or cheering misfortunes of a player won't be allowed.
"Such occurrences have been rare at The Masters, but we must eliminate them entirely if our patrons are to continue to merit their reputation as the most knowledgeable and considerate in the world," he wrote.
Spectators are asked to be quiet when silence is required, remain stationary while a shot is being executed and obey instructions by officials, according to the club's Etiquette Information. Excessive noise or shouting is not tolerated during the tournament and could result in dismissal of the spectator.
Augusta National enforces a "no autograph" policy on the golf course during the practice and tournament days. Autograph seeking is allowed only around the practice range and on the Par 3 course during the Par 3 contest.
Running inside the course is considered unacceptable behavior, and spectators are instructed to use only crosswalks and to never go "under the ropes" for any reason, according to the club.
Cameras are allowed for personal use on the golf course only during the practice rounds on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and are not allowed during tournament play.
Other electronic items including cellphones and tablets are not allowed, and should be checked in with concierges in hospitality areas. A violation could result in permanent badge forfeiture, removal from the course and "a substantial penalty" assessed against your hosting company, according to the rules.
Other prohibited items include alcoholic beverages; beverage containers and coolers; banners or signs; golf shoes with metal spikes; walkie talkies; bags, backpacks or purses larger than 10 inches in width, 10 inches in height and 12 inches in diameter; weapons of any kind, regardless of permit; ladders; periscopes; radios or televisions; tape recorders; and strollers.
Pets and animals are not allowed on the course except for trained service animals.
Each guest is allowed to bring one chair into the golf course, but folding armchairs and "rigid type" chairs are not allowed, according to the rules. The club will have chairs for sale on the course.
The club notes that all ticket holders consent to an inspection of their property before entering and during the tournament, and that refusing such inspection or possession of prohibited items can result in removal from the tournament.
Teddy Kulmala covers the crime and courts beat for the Aiken Standard and has been with the newspaper since August 2012. He is a native of Williston and majored in communication studies at Clemson University.