March 18, 2002. Copyright, 2002, Graphic News. All rights reserved

AugustaÕs famous green jacket

LONDON, March 18, Graphic News:  The famous green jacket worn by members of the Augusta National Golf Club dates from 1937. Purchased from the Brooks Uniform Company in New York City, members were urged to buy and wear one of the jackets during the Masters Tournament so that patrons would be able to identify a reliable source of information. The warm Spring weather typical of GeorgiaÕs southern climate meant that members were not initially enthusiastic about wearing the warm, green coat but within several years, a lightweight, made-to-order jacket was available from the club shop. Sam Snead, winner of the Masters in 1949, became the first Masters champion to be awarded the Green Jacket. The single breasted, single vent jacket is ÒMasters GreenÓ in colour and adorned with the logo of the Augusta National Golf Club on the left chest pocket and on the brass buttons.

Traditionally, the champion keeps his jacket for one year, returning it to the club when he returns for the following yearÕs Masters tournament. The jacket is then stored at the club and made available whenever the champion visits.

As the Masters nears its conclusion, several jackets that might fit the possible winner are selected for use during the presentation ceremony. Afterwards the winner will have his measurements taken so that a custom-made Green Jacket can be tailored especially for him. Typically, unless his size drastically changes, a player who wins the Masters more than once will possess only one Green Jacket during his lifetime.
/ENDS

Source: Augusta National Golf Club