A Tradition Unlike Any Other

Well it's spring once again. How do I know it? It doesn't matter what the temperature is. It doesn't matter that it's been in the high 80s earlier in the week, or that it will only be in the 50s late this week. Blooms on the Dogwoods and Bradford Pears could happen in mid-March, but it still wouldn't mean it's spring. Nope... the beginning of spring, for me, is when I first hear that legendary Dave Loggins instrumental tune simply entitled "Augusta". The Masters golf tournament, played every year in early April, signals the turn of the calendar from the cold winter months to the rebirth and renewal of the spring season.

Alright, now that I've waxed poetic for a few moments... yeah, it's time for the 2010 Masters. I'm excited. I absolutely love this golf tournament. Simply put, Augusta National Golf Club is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Period. If you disagree, you must have a bias against the game of golf. The lush green grass set against the vibrant reds, pinks, and whites of the azaleas are just visually stunning. The music is classic, calming, optimistic even. And of course, the golf is some of the best that you'll watch. I haven't been too happy with the winners the last few years, but regardless, it has made for some exciting viewing. Last year's final round dramatics where Kenny Perry let the Green Jacket slip through his hands was ultimately fun to watch, but so heartbreaking at the same time.

So now the big storyline this year, as it is almost ever year, is Tiger Woods. He's returning from therapy for his "sexual addiction" and promiscuity. His wife has apparently left him, and Tiger is trying to pick up the pieces from both his marriage and his career (especially his sponsorships). He hasn't played since November. Nobody knows how the crowd will respond to them, though most assume it will be positive. Still, there could be demons haunting him when he takes to the first tee tomorrow.

Honestly, I was a big fan of Tiger. I liked his competitiveness. I'm not an "underdog" kind of guy. I liked seeing him when tournaments, and by large margins. He didn't seem like the nicest guy in the world, but hey, I don't know him personally. All he has to do is entertain me when he's on TV. Now, was I mad at him for what he did? Yes. Cheating on your spouse is something the lowest of people do. Forgiveness does not and should not come easy. I wish Tiger hadn't done it, both for himself, his wife Elin, and myself, so I wouldn't feel so bad for still liking him. But like him I do. I want to see him win. I want to see him dominate. Then, I want him to cry at the press conference and show actual emotion while again begging his fans, and his family, for forgiveness.

That being said, my official prediction for the 2010 Masters Champion? Ernie Els. No specific reason why, but it seems like he deserves. My alternate pick is Ian Poulter. I wouldn't be happy, but it could happen. I will say Tiger finishes in the Top 10.