Masters proceeding as scheduled despite coronavirus concerns

Plans for the 84th Masters and related events will proceed as scheduled despite growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, Augusta National Golf Club chairman Fred Ridley said Wednesday.

In a letter released by the club, Ridley said Augusta National is consulting with health experts and following the situation with plans to take further action as events require.

Spectators from around the world flock to Augusta annually for the year's first major golf championship, scheduled for April 9-12 under the famed Georgia pine trees down Magnolia Lane.

"The safety, health and well-being of everyone is our top priority at Augusta National Golf Club," Ridley said.

"We are, therefore, mindful of the Novel Coronavirus COVID-19, which has been widely reported and continues to spread in areas where it has been detected."
"As a result of this collaboration, and based upon our knowledge of the situation at this time, we are proceeding as scheduled for the Augusta National Women's Amateur, the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals and the Masters tournament."