The 2001 Masters

Masters Day 2001 dawned stormy and wet, continuing the pattern of the night that led into it. Steady rain alternated with torrential downpours as the Obringer National (O.N.) grounds crew watched and worried. Meanwhile, in the clubhouse (and at player locations around the globe), the tasty treats which would sustain this year's competitors were being carefully prepared. Fortunately, an early arriving contestant, Adam T., was of great assistance to O.N. Chairman Dave O. and, with some engineering input from Bob O., new courts were laid out, set-up, and named as morning turned to afternoon.

Upper Dogwood, Upper Cedar, and Upper Upper Cedar (aka Arbor) all debuted in the woods above the Parking area, while the parking area itself was part of two new courts, collectively named City Court (and known during play as City North and City South.)

Thus, despite the nearly two hour delay in the start of play, and the presence of 10 rather than 8 doubles teams, the six courts in play enabled the 2001 Masters to be completed nearly on schedule. Unfortunately for most of the contestants, that was not the only similarity to past events, as three-time Champion Bruce Mason added an unprecedented fourth Green Jacket to his wardrobe. This year Bruce did it the hard way, coming from the Losers bracket in the newly-unveiled single game, double elimination format. The final victim was a familiar one, last year's runner up and two time Champion Rob Dembinski. Meanwhile, Eric Poklar, present after a two-year layoff, rode a 3rd round victory over 4 seed Brian Funaki and a 4th round victory over eventual Champion Mason to the finals of the Winners bracket and a first-ever third place finish. O.N. Chairman Dave O. overcame an early upset at the hands of his sister Jenny OP to finish strong on the Losers side and collect the final piece of hardware in his fifth straight final four appearance.

The 2001 event featured many occurrences not seen in the prior five tournaments, and not just because of the new format (featuring a single game, double elimination format, and the introduction of handicapping of the players via varying foul lines). The first recorded "leaner on a leaner" (scored as off-setting leaners by the Chairman) came in a hotly contested match between Erika B. and Holly A., while long-distance traveler Josh F. became the first player in memory to effectively "roll-in" a pipe. The first ever appearances by CKT III and Turd, combined with the re-emergence of Hutch, only added to the festivities.

Erika B. and Holly A. and their unprecedented leaner-on-a-leaner!

As always, Bob O did a magnificent job of handling the grill, beginning with his handling of its selection and purchase, and was ably assisted by Brian F., back after a one year hiatus.

All in all, the roster of players at this year's event may have comprised the strongest field ever for The Masters, and all seemingly enjoyed the excitement, suspense, and challenge of the new format.

Congratulations once again to this year's Champion, Bruce Mason. Dave and Lee Ann look forward to another exciting event in 2002 -- Mark your calendars now for the Saturday before Memorial Day!

Hootie!

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