What will health and safety protocols be for 2021 Masters patrons? Here's what we know

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Seats once filled by patrons on the practice range at Augusta National Golf Club were nearly empty during the Nov. 10 practice round for the Masters Tournament. [MICHAEL HOLAHAN/THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE]

Augusta National Golf Club has revealed its COVID-19 health and safety protocols for patrons ahead of the 2021 Masters Tournament.

The Masters starts Thursday, April 8 at the Augusta National with practice rounds beginning Monday, April 5. The club announced in January that it would limit the number of patrons due to concerns about COVID-19. The 2020 Masters was delayed from its traditional April time slot until November due to the pandemic. It was played without fans in attendance.

The club is also holding the Augusta National Women's Amateur and Drive and Chip and Putt National finals on Saturday, April 3, and Sunday, April 4, respectively.

Photos: Scenic views of Augusta National Golf Club

Here's what the safety measures mean for those patrons attending the events:

COVID testing

Badge holders must have proof of a negative PCR, molecular or anitgen COVID-19 test 72 hours before admittance onto the grounds. This is regardless of whether the patron has been vaccinated; antibody tests will not be accepted.

The results must be on paper, dated within 72 hours prior and the name on the results must match the badge holder's photo ID. Anyone who has tested positive within 10 days prior to attending will not be allowed entry.

Patrons are asked to stay home if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms: fatigue, muscle or body aches, headaches, congestion or runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or the new loss of taste or smell.

Mask requirements

Face coverings will be required of all patrons and must be worn at all times, unless actively eating or drinking. Cloth, N95, KN95 and surgical masks are permitted, while neck gaiters, bandannas, masks with ventilators and face shields without permitted covering underneath are not.

Social distancing

The standard six feet of social distancing will also be enforced. In addition, patrons are asked to wash their hands regularly. Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the grounds.

Contactless pay

All facilities at Augusta National will be cashless to mitigate contact. The only accepted method of payment at concessions stands, merchandise shops and shipping locations will be credit cards.

More information can be found on the Masters website, under the "patron info" tab.