Augusta National to help renovate beloved city-owned muni

Less than five miles down the road from historic Augusta National is the other Augusta, Augusta Municipal Golf Course.

Established in 1928, Augusta Municipal, affectionately nicknamed “The Patch,” is a beloved pillar of the local golf community. Rounds are ultra-affordable. Players can walk 18 holes for $20 or ride for $28.

Good stuff, and it’s about to get better.

On Wednesday, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley announced the club’s support of a new initiative that will further strengthen Augusta Municipal’s community ties.

In a new partnership, Augusta Technical College’s golf course management and workforce program, Augusta Municipal and the First Tee of Augusta will work together in an effort to grow the game among young players of all backgrounds by providing a pathway to employment for students interested in working in golf as well as access to an affordable, top-notch facility. Augusta National has committed to both support and assist in the planning and execution of this multiphase vision.

Ridley said the project will also include master planning and renovation of both The Patch and The First Tee facility.

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“This initiative offers a unique opportunity to contribute to two areas of utmost importance to Augusta National’s mission, our community and golf development,” Ridley said in a press release. “While in its early stages, this partnership can help produce the next generation of golf’s workforce and make the game more accessible and inviting to youth and residents throughout the community. I commend Augusta Technical College, The Patch, The First Tee of Augusta and all leaders involved in this project, and we look forward to supporting their partnership and this exciting new chapter for public golf here in our city.”

Augusta Tech is currently planning on assuming ownership of Augusta Municipal from the City of Augusta by 2025. The transition will also entail the relocation of Augusta Tech’s golf course management program to Augusta Municipal.

Ridley’s announcement marks the latest example of Augusta National’s investment into the local community. In 2020, Augusta National, along with partners IBM, AT&T and Bank Of America, pledged $10 million to bring two new community centers to the nearby Harrisburg and Laney Walker neighborhoods.

Augusta National and the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area collaborate annually to support local charities through proceeds from the Masters.