Whew! I just made my escape from the main merchandise building at the Masters. It was a close call but I made my way safely to the more quiet realms of the \u201cPatron Corridor.\u201d Man, was it a crowded and bustling marketplace. In terms of swirling activity, it reminded me of a feeding frenzy at dinnertime at Shark World. OK, I exaggerate (a little) because everything at the Masters is done in a cordial and orderly fashion. Anyway, in search of some \u201cbest buys,\u201d here\u2019s what caught my eye (but not necessarily my wallet) inside golf\u2019s ultimate shopping experience:<\/p>\n
Masters pin<\/strong>\u2014at $8, it\u2019s one the lowest cost items in the shop. Just wished it didn\u2019t have the year on it. But that\u2019s what makes it a collectible, I guess.<\/p>\n Hat clip with magnetic ball marker<\/strong>\u2014A smart buy at only $10 and it will last as long as you don\u2019t lose your hat.<\/p>\n Masters notecards<\/strong>\u2014I\u2019ve been buying this box of 12 notecards (and envelops) with scenic holes for a number of years. Nothing says \u201cthank you\u201d so well and for so little. $15.<\/p>\n 2-pack of can coolers (aka koozies)<\/strong>\u2014Told it was new logo item, I picked up several of them at a bargain price of $10 (or $5 each.) Later, I went online and learned a corporate price for customized koozies can be ordered for as little as 15 cents.<\/p>\n Teeshirts<\/strong>\u2014Hey, Masters competitor Jimmy Walker yesterday bought some Masters tees so that\u2019s a strong endorsement. Prices range from $25 to $45 for short and long sleeve models. Only downside again: most of the tees are logo\u2019ed with this year\u2019s tournament year.<\/p>\n Silk Tie<\/strong>\u2014When I first purchased a Masters tie more than 20 years ago, there were only a few colors and styles. Now there are over two dozen ties (and bow ties) to choose from. At $75, it\u2019s still a good buy because of its \u201cstaying power\u201d versus the fashionistas.<\/p>\n Cinch Bag<\/strong>\u2014A new item, this \u201cdrawstring” bag is softer and lighter than a backpack and cheaper at $22.<\/p>\n I-phone cover<\/strong>\u2014sharp item and reasonably priced at $25. Perfect for those addicted to golf, the Masters and hand-held devices.<\/p>\n Binoculars<\/strong>\u2014One of the \u201cmust have\u201d patron items here is a pair of binoculars to help watch the action, especially if you\u2019re seated in an observer stand. A quality product at only $29.<\/p>\n Umbrellas<\/strong>\u2014A very hot item yesterday morning before the severe weather hit thereby closing the shop and the golf course. Note: the optimum clime for umbrella commerce is a light steady rain without the chance of a \u201cwash out.\u201d Plenty left today at $45.<\/p>\n Money clip<\/strong>\u2014Another good and enduring item at $20.<\/p>\n Poster<\/strong>\u2014Again, something you\u2019ll have for years to come and modestly priced at $20<\/p>\n Vintage Masters Sign<\/strong>\u2014Love this new item akin to the \u201cGone to the Beach\u201d signage popular for cottages and summer homes. A little pricey at $95 but definitely a cool addition in the right home or office.<\/p>\n Holiday ornaments<\/strong>\u2014It\u2019s Christmas in April with this set of four different ornaments. $25.<\/p>\n Pet Collar<\/strong>\u2014Even your beloved Spot or Lady can proudly don the Masters logo at $15. Heck, I bought one and I don\u2019t even have a pet.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"