The first day is in the books at the 2026 Masters golf tournament. ‘A tradition like no other’ seems to fit the bill this year as 91 golfers vie for the Green Jacket. There are some past champions like Freddie Couples (one of my all time favorites), Vijay Singh, Mike Weir, and José María Olazábal are playing one of their favourite courses. There are many young guns who I do not recognize, but the top players in the world are still showing that consistency is key to playing at Augusta. This is one of my must see events through the year and my top pick, defending champion Rory McIlroy, is a co-leader after day one. With great weather forecasted for the weekend, what do the players chasing the top of the leaderboard have to do in order to be in Butler’s Cabin on Sunday?

During the first round, it was easy to see how Augusta National was ready for this prestigious event. The course looked to be in amazing shape and most of the commentary supported this statement. I marvel at this course every year because of its beauty and majestic demeanour. And how the course played is exactly as expected for the first round of this Major.

The players who rose to the top of the leaderboard played consistent golf. They it fairways and greens for the most part. Rory McIlroy indicated that he started slow, but went 5 under for the last 11 holes. That is consistent play I am talking about. Yes, he made a couple of putts, but for the most part he stayed out of trouble and responded with a great shot when required. Overall, Rory’s approach to winning golf after completing his career grand slam last year is a good one.

Let us not forget the Honorary Starters. I enjoy watching the friendship and history of how the Masters is started each year:

Here is a quick recap of some of the action:

So, now what? Friday is a tough day for many players and at the Masters it is even more stressful. The projected cut is around plus 3. Therefore, many of the players withing 3 strokes at the start of their round will be watching the cut line. This is where the fun begins. Some players will start to take unnecessary risks in order to register a birdie or two. Unfortunately, this strategy is folly. Augusta National is a golf tournament, in my opinion, where consistent play is the key to success. If a players starts on the cut line of plus three today, 18 pars will be enough to make it to moving day and Sunday. Playing steady golf is the key.

I realize there is nothing exciting about how to play at the Masters today. However, as we watch, we know there will be some exciting shots, disappointing shots, unlikely bounces and missed short putts. It is the nature of any golf tournament, but more so at this Major. Regardless of what happens, it is going to be exciting to watch.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!