One random thought...do you think ANGC doesn't allow early Thursday and Friday coverage to shield the past champions (and/or the young amateurs) for being on tv and embarrassing themselves? They go there and get to enjoy themselves but don't have to get posted all over the world hitting poor shots and hitting 10 over par. Perhaps I am way off base, but maybe not.
No, I believe that Augusta National is an anachronism. They are elitist, control freaks who because of their finances can do what they want, including their history of discrimination. Tiger is a perfect fit, although quite ironic for obvious reasons.
Any golf organization that is so in control that traps must be called bunkers or you're gone is simply out of control. Never mind bikini wax. Oh yes, no spectators, only patrons. Remember Jim Mckay at Baltusrol in 1980 calling the exuberant gallery 'the huddled masses'? Oh well, he would be gone too.
One may not watch the tournament with any expectation of journalism. Just tow the Augusta National line and all is fine. Never mention their elitism. Never mention their discriminatory history or for that matter current practices. Hello Martha Burke (although certainly not the best woman to push the issue). Great tournament. Great course. Frankly a club that epitomizes the public's view of golf. And that is unfortunate. When a course is proposed in your community and there is vehement opposition, think why. and then thank Augusta National as one reason that people have biases against golf.