Drone images of Augusta National Golf Club have surfaced online, revealing the destruction left by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane wreaked havoc across the Southeastern United States in late September, causing power outages, floods, and sadly, many lives were lost.
Augusta in Georgia was among the hardest hit areas. This is where Augusta National, home to The Masters tournament, stands. Pictures shared by @ed_bodenhamer on September 28th show fallen trees scattered across the famous golf course.
The damage is evident at Hole 16 and stretches across much of the course. “Hole 16 is wrecked,” reads a post on X. Other social media posts display significant damage around Augusta, including downed trees along Magnolia Lane and an overflowing Rae’s Creek near holes 11 and 12.
Widespread Devastation:
Drone footage from Eureka Earth also highlights severe damage to Augusta Country Club nearby. Many locals have shared firsthand accounts of what they witnessed during this disaster. Fans might wonder if Augusta will ever look the same again after such devastation.
Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National, acknowledged “a lot of damage” but assured that The Masters will proceed as planned next April. He stated at a championship event in Japan that efforts are underway to restore the course swiftly.
While it’s uncertain how much repairing everything will cost or take time-wise, Ridley emphasized that community recovery remains paramount over tournament preparations.
In response to this crisis, Augusta National has pledged $5 million towards local relief efforts alongside the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area. “I was in Augusta right after the storm,” Ridley mentioned. “Our people need immediate help.”
He expressed hope that their contribution would inspire others to support these critical relief missions too.
What do you think about all this?