S12, Ep19 Part 1: Inside Augusta National: Masters Preview with Tim Simpson & Donnie Hammond

This week on Next on the Tee, is a Special Masters Preview edition of the show. I’m taking you inside the ropes and into the heart of Augusta National with four incredible guests who’ve lived The Masters—from competing in the tournament a combined 18 times to calling the action for CBS Sports.

In Part 1, is one of the all-time great ball strikers in PGA Tour history and a local Georgia golf legend, Tim Simpson. Making his ninth appearance on the show, Tim shares what it was like playing in The Masters six times, with his best finish coming in 1985 when he tied for 18th. A proud Atlanta native and UGA alum, Tim opens up about both the highs and the struggles he faced at Augusta, particularly on those famously challenging greens.

Next, I’m joined by a longtime friend of the show Donnie Hammond. Donnie played in The Masters four times, beginning in 1986—the year he found himself in the second-to-last group on Sunday, paired with none other than Bernhard Langer. Donnie reflects on the excitement of that final round and the intensity of hearing the roars from all over the course as Jack Nicklaus made his legendary charge. He also takes us back to 1975 when he worked at Augusta during another unforgettable Masters, won by Jack in a dramatic finish over Tom Weiskopf and Johnny Miller. Donnie shares stories about being on the grounds both as a player and a fan, giving us a rich, inside look at one of golf’s most iconic events.