Patrons snap up Masters merchandise

As the line to enter Augusta National’s merchandise shop lengthened to a 45-minute wait, Robin Sanger from Murfreesboro, Tenn., sifted through the different dog collars carrying the Masters Tournament logo.

The collars ranged from white and green stripes to solid green. She purchased a $17 collar for her Labrador and Jack Russell terrier mix. She said it was her second time at the shop.

Photos: Tuesday Masters Patrons 

On her first visit to the store earlier in the day, she purchased visors to add to her collection, which she’s had for five years.

“I’ve got one from the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship and from a lot of the big golf tournaments,” Sanger said. “I have about 20 total.” 

Cathy Devries, a Michigan native, bought 18 shirts, five hats and a tumbler totaling $1,500 – and nothing for herself.

“I’m one of their top sellers,” Devries said while laughing and struggling to carry her bag.

She had a detailed list of everything to buy for 14 friends and family members. The first thing that caught her eye was a light-green collared shirt with blue and white stripes. When she saw the matching hat, Devries knew she’d be buying both for everyone.

“He’s getting most of it,” Devries said of her husband.

Lisa Decker, of Annapolis, Md., shopped with a friend and walked out with the $25 Christmas ornament that features the clubhouse.

“Every time I travel, everywhere I go, I try and get a Christmas ornament for myself,” she said.

Evan Thie, 25, waited for his friends to come out of the shop while four full bags of merchandise rested below the bench he was sitting on. His favorite thing to buy is the Masters polo, and he likes to surprise friends, family and his girlfriend with Masters gifts.

Dewey Brunson from Myrtle Beach, S.C., said he made sure to leave Augusta National with gifts for his co-workers.

“I bought stuff so I can play golf with it, and some of it is for my office,” said Brunson, 30. “I’ve got a couple of managers at the office that need some shirts, so I’m looking out for them.”