In the illustrious history of the Masters Tournament, few moments have been as iconic as Arnold Palmer’s triumph in 1958. It was the year that marked the rise of a golfing legend and the birth of Amen Corner, a term coined by renowned Sports Illustrated golf writer Herbert Warren Wind. Let us delve into the details and relive this historic occasion at Augusta National.
An Eventful Year at the Masters Tournament
The 1958 Masters Tournament was filled with notable events that added to its significance. Two bridges were dedicated across Rae’s Creek, paying tribute to the exceptional feats of Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson. Excitement was in the air as a young and promising professional named Arnold Palmer emerged victorious, claiming his first-ever Masters title.
The Vital Role of Amen Corner
Amen Corner, comprising holes 11, 12, and 13, had already established its presence for a quarter-century before receiving its catchy nickname. However, it was Herbert Warren Wind who immortalized these three holes with his evocative term in 1958. Nestled where Rae’s Creek converges with the National, this unforgettable stretch played a pivotal role in shaping the early years of the Masters Tournament.
Bridges and Their Stories
Within Amen Corner, two bridges hold a special place in Masters history. The Nelson Bridge stands as a testament to Byron Nelson’s remarkable charge in 1937 when he secured a birdie on the 12th hole and an awe-inspiring eagle on the 13th, ultimately clinching victory. The Hogan Bridge, on the other hand, commemorates Ben Hogan’s historic 72-hole score of 274 in 1953, which remained as the lowest in Masters history at the time.
Arnold Palmer’s Triumph and the Controversy
The 1958 tournament proved to be a turning point in Arnold Palmer’s career. Amidst a rules controversy, Palmer found himself playing with two balls on the 12th hole during the final round. Undeterred, he went on to make a remarkable eagle on the par-5 13th, securing his victory by a narrow margin of one shot over Doug Ford and Fred Hawkins. This triumph marked the beginning of Palmer’s illustrious four Masters wins.
The Birth of “Amen Corner”
At the heart of Wind’s creative genius was his love for both golf and jazz. Drawing inspiration from a jazz recording titled “Shoutin’ in That Amen Corner,” Wind adopted the term to describe the dramatic action that unfolded within Amen Corner during the Masters Tournament. It is worth noting that the recording was incorrectly attributed to Milton Mezzrow, dispelling a longstanding research misconception.
The Legacy of Herbert Warren Wind
Herbert Warren Wind, a luminary among golf writers, left an indelible mark on the Masters Tournament and the world of golf as a whole. Though Wind passed away in 2005 at the age of 88, his extensive essays and literary contributions continue to captivate golf enthusiasts. His profound understanding of the game and his ability to craft compelling narratives have made him a revered figure in golf journalism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Amen Corner?
Amen Corner is a term coined by Herbert Warren Wind to describe holes 11, 12, and 13 at Augusta National, where Rae’s Creek meets the National. It played a significant role in the early years of the Masters Tournament and continues to be a thrilling stretch of holes to this day.
Why were bridges dedicated at Amen Corner?
Two bridges were dedicated to honor the remarkable achievements of golfing legends Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan. The Nelson Bridge commemorates Nelson’s birdie and eagle during the 1937 Masters, while the Hogan Bridge pays tribute to Hogan’s historic 72-hole score in 1953.
How did Arnold Palmer’s victory impact the Masters Tournament?
Arnold Palmer’s victory in 1958 marked the beginning of an extraordinary career at the Masters. It was the first of his four Masters titles, establishing him as one of the most iconic figures in golfing history and signaling the rise of a new era in the sport.
Who was Herbert Warren Wind?
Herbert Warren Wind was a revered golf writer who wrote extensively about the Masters Tournament and its participants. Known for his distinct storytelling style, Wind’s writings continue to captivate golf fans, ensuring his lasting legacy in the realm of golf journalism.
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