Rick Allen: “Last week, in Augusta, Georgia, we celebrated a tradition that is truly unlike any other. The first full week of April…”

“Last week, in Augusta, Georgia, we celebrated a tradition that is truly unlike any other. The first full week of April is always one filled with excitement and stellar competition as we watch the most talented golfers in the world take on the famed Augusta National Golf Course. For 1 week each year, the world gets a glimpse into Georgia 12 and the wonderful people who live and work there, the district I have the great honor of representing. From the world famous azaleas to the delicious pimento cheese sandwiches, the tradition that encompasses the Masters is truly something special. We also heard a historic announcement from Chairman Fred Ridley that the final round of a new competition, the Augusta National Women's Amateur tournament, will be played at the Augusta National, furthering the Masters tradition and the future of golf. I would like to congratulate Chairman Ridley for his leadership in making this important decision. I would also like to congratulate this year's Masters champion and Augusta University graduate, Patrick Reed, for his outstanding performance under the greatest pressure experienced in any competition: the back nine at Augusta. It is my great privilege to welcome people from around the globe to the world's greatest sporting event as we count down the days until Masters 2019. ____________________”