Masters Insider

Where to go: Shopping

Experienced patrons know that the outdoor golf shops, or merchandise areas, are the place to be on Monday mornings. That’s where you can be sure to get the best selection of items.

Baseball-style caps and golf shirts emblazoned with the Masters logo are among the most popular items, but there is something for every budget and for those who don’t play golf.

Crystal glassware and leather goods are among the most expensive items; key chains, golf balls and towels are inexpensive.

Under the oak tree: Kevin Streelman

Kevin Streelman, 34, is making his second Masters Tournament appearance. He missed the cut in 2011 with rounds of 75 and 74. He won the Tampa Bay Championship last month to earn his invitation.

Q: What’s it like to be back in Augusta?

A: It’s really, really special to me. The first time I got in was through the FedEx Cup playoffs, but to come back as a winner is really gratifying. I feel like I belong. I flew in (Sunday) morning with my coach, wife and caddie. I took the last two weeks off so I can feel nice and rested.

Q: What did you work on today?

A: Getting familiar again with the slopes and speeds of the greens. They’re not by any means what they’re going to be like later in the week. I’m playing 18 with (two-time Masters winner) Bernhard Langer (on Monday), so I’m going to pick his brain about the course a lot.

Q: What is it about the tournament that gives first-timers such a hard time?

A: It’s one of those courses where you definitely need a basis of knowledge. But you can be a little crazy about it. At the same time you need to go play golf and trust your instincts. It’s a happy medium. There’s places you know you can’t miss it, but you can’t overthink it.

Q: What are your expectations this week?

A: I played really well three weeks ago. I’m here to contend.

History lesson: Amateurs

Amateurs have always held a special place at the Masters because tournament co-founder Bobby Jones is considered the greatest amateur of all time.

No amateur has ever won at Augusta National, but Frank Stranahan (T2, 1947), Ken Venturi (2, 1956) and Charlie Coe (T2, 1961) had close calls.

Billy Joe Patton finished one shot out of a playoff between Sam Snead and Ben Hogan in 1954.