Augusta National in Prime Shape After Hurricane Helene: Chairman Ridley Reports

Augusta National Makes Stunning Recovery After Hurricane Helene

Augusta National Golf Club is back in "spectacular condition" just months after Hurricane Helene ripped through the legendary course, taking down countless trees and threatening to disrupt the upcoming Masters Tournament.

The hurricane, which claimed 228 lives and devastated the Florida Bend region last October, left its mark on golf’s most famous address – including the iconic Magnolia Lane.

But you wouldn’t know it today.

"The golf course is in spectacular condition," Fred Ridley, Augusta National’s chairman, told reporters at a press conference in Argentina. "I don’t think you’re going to see any difference in the condition for the Masters this year."

The only visible change? There are "not quite as many trees as we did a year ago," Ridley admitted.

Drone footage in the immediate aftermath of Helene showed a dramatically different Augusta National, with fallen trees scattered across the pristine grounds that normally host golf’s first major championship each spring.

The club’s response was swift and comprehensive. Ground crews moved in as soon as the weather cleared, working tirelessly to restore the course to its legendary standards.

But it wasn’t just about getting the golf course ready.

Augusta National donated $5 million to hurricane relief efforts, recognizing that the surrounding community faced far bigger challenges than preparing for a golf tournament.

"Many of our people were out of their homes for a number of weeks. No electricity. The community didn’t have water for a while," Ridley explained. "I’m just really proud of how our entire organization responded to that."

The Masters is scheduled for April 10-13, 2025, and despite Mother Nature’s best efforts, golf’s most prestigious tournament appears ready to showcase its familiar beauty to the world once again.

The course’s remarkable recovery stands as a bright spot in a region still dealing with Helene’s aftermath, where thousands of homes and businesses continue to rebuild.