Masters proceeding as scheduled despite coronavirus concerns

Plans for 84th Masters and related events will proceed as scheduled despite growing concerns over coronavirus outbreak, Augusta National Golf Club chairman Fred Ridley said Wednesday. In a letter released by club, Ridley said Augusta National is consulting with health experts and following situation with plans to take furr action as events require. Spectators from around world flock to Augusta annually for year's first major golf championship, scheduled for April 9-12 under famed Georgia pine trees down Maglia Lane.

Masters proceeding as scheduled

" safety, health and well-being of everyone is our top priority at Augusta National Golf Club," Ridley said.

"We are, refore, mindful of vel Coronavirus COVID-19, which has been widely reported and continues to spre in areas where it has been detected."

Or events that remain on schedule include Augusta National Women's Amateur, a 54-hole event that starts April 1 and concludes at Augusta National on April 4 and Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals youth event on April 5. "Augusta National is t only monitoring situation closely, but also consulting with relevant experts, including World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Georgia Department of Public Health and local authorities," Riley said. "As a result of this collaboration, and based upon our kwledge of situation at this time, we are proceeding as scheduled for Augusta National Women's Amateur, Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals and Masters tournament."

Changes in situation will be monitored by Augusta National and could result in later changes in plans as warranted.

"We will continue to review available facts and information with experts and authorities, establish precautions and take appropriate action to ensure safety of all involved," Ridley said.

"We are asking that everyone follow preventative actions vised by CDC to mitigate spre of any virus. In dition, we strongly encour all those traveling to Augusta, Georgia, to become kwledgeable of most recent travel protocols and restrictions."