Tiger Woods, the immortal golfer and world-changer, just made a big golf announcement that has everybody buzzing. Jointly, they will develop an original design for a nine-hole short course called “The Loop at the Patch.” This new program will be first implemented in April 2024. It’s designed to be a welcoming service to the surrounding community and a tribute to the caddies who have converged on this space for decades. Woods, who is recuperating from recent surgery, shared his enthusiasm for this new partnership in a written statement.
Woods also became the youngest Masters champion ever, at the age of just 21 years in 1997. He became the second-oldest champion as well — 43 in 2019. His ties to Augusta National also run deep, and he hopes to build on that legacy through this latest endeavor. That notoriety recently reached a new high when the golf icon became the first golfer to make the Masters cut 24 years in a row. This recent accomplishment only further cements his legendary status in the golfing world.
Vision for “The Loop at the Patch”
The idea for “The Loop at the Patch” actually came from Woods. He pitched the idea of a local short course to Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley. This led to a rich discussion on the possible benefits that would come from a facility like this. We hope that this course will help provide that exciting environment for local golfers. It will additionally increase educational opportunities—we’re doing that jointly with educational initiatives funded through Woods’ nonprofit, the TGR Foundation.
“It was clear when I shared the concept that it sort of piqued his interest, and that was sort of the beginning of a conversation,” – Ridley
Ridley expressed enthusiasm for Woods’ vision. The partnership is about much more than connecting golf with education. That’s exactly what Woods wants. From a young child, he was always drawn to the love of golf and his education. This deep rooted passion is what makes this partnership so special.
“Partnering with Augusta National Golf Club to serve its surrounding community is truly special,” – Woods
Educational Opportunities through TGR Learning Lab
Augusta National Golf Club and Tiger Woods’ TGR Foundation are thrilled to announce the launch of a fourth TGR Learning Lab. This launch coincides with the creation of “The Loop at the Patch.” This new initiative is a great first step towards getting richer, more varied educational resources into the hands of our local youth. The labs provide creative, hands-on spaces that excite and empower students to be forces of innovation themselves.
“He then sort of moved into discussing the big idea of the TGR Learning Lab, which to me is just very exciting,” – Ridley
We’re excited for this collaboration to help further educational achievement while growing an appreciation and passion for the game of golf among Augusta’s youth. These concepts are crucial to ensuring the Learning Lab meets the needs of the community and serves as an invaluable resource to students.
Woods’ Continued Commitment
Woods has had to overcome recent adversity after having surgery for a completely torn Achilles tendon. Nevertheless, his genius remains focused on artistic pursuits and golf, evident in his continued philanthropy. He started TGR Design, a super-creative layout firm. This firm will be instrumental in casting the vision for what “The Loop at the Patch” can be. His dedication to philanthropy embodies his lifelong ties to Augusta National and the wider community.
“Tiger’s philanthropic legacy intertwined with his many magical moments at Augusta National will forever be celebrated in this community,” – Augusta Chairman Fred Ridley
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