Posted April 8, 2013, 3:07 pm
BY

Staff Writer

Patrons stock up on Masters merchandise

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A patron holds a two-pack of Masters-branded can coolers, which are new this year.
Article Photos

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Performance hats, made of thinner material, are among the hit sellers.

Meghan Waites had a good eye for must-have items at Augusta National Golf Club’s main merchandise shop Monday morning.

Her shopping bag was filled with Masters Tournament souvenirs, including an insulated drink can cooler offered at the tournament for the first time.

“We’ve been waiting for the koozie,” said Waites, who shopped with a friend. “It’s the first thing we grabbed when we came in.”

Waites, of Fort Valley, Ga., purchased five sets of the green can coolers, which feature an official Masters logo. A pair sold for $10.

She also bought a colorful iPhone case, another hot item.

“As soon as I get in the car, it will be on my phone,” she said.

Other popular items were men’s baseball caps made from lightweight materials designed for high-performance sport activities.

“I was definitely interested in the hats because of the thin materials so it breathes easier on your head,” said Barry Walpert, of Venice, Fla.

After browsing the large selection of hats, he chose a breathable design for himself and a traditional baseball cap for his son, who lives in Boston.

Throngs of patrons crowded the women’s clothing counters to buy bright shirts, scarves and pullover sweaters.

“I like the bright colors. They stand out better,” said Alison Rogers, of Fort Collins, Colo. “Everyone just wants Augusta merchandise.”

Merchandise specific to Wednesday’s Par-3 Contest will be sold on Wednesday only. Items will include keepsake flags and hats.

From AugustaChronicle.com »