Golf World Monday - March 28, 2011

3.28.2011

05masters qualifying

There was a tournament within a tournament at Bay Hill as players vied for victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, but many in the field also had the Masters on their minds, most notably Charles Howell III (pictured) and Vaughn Taylor, who have Augusta, Ga., roots. Qualification to the Masters via the World ranking is now closed (no one moved into the top 50 to gain qualification after the API). The only path left for outsiders is a win at the Shell Houston Open. This is fascinating theater. But a rerun will occur as the u.S. Open approaches. And then the British Open, followed by the PGA, Presidents Cup, ryder Cup, etc. We tend to forget that there is always something to play for—and on every stroke. “I’ve never quit on a shot in my life,” says former No. 1 David Duval. “If I save a stroke here, it might mean points, earnings, a top-25 or a top-10. Down the road it could be important.” Nevertheless, the Masters significantly raises the sweaty-palms meter, which is why the early-season jostling and jousting for a coveted berth provides some of the most entertaining and emotion-laden golf all year. As Paul Azinger noted accurately, “Guys only choke for two reasons: money and prestige.” —D.S.