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Monday, 08 May 2006 |
Billy Payne the new Masters boss rules out women members
Billy Payne the forthcoming chairman of Augusta National, the home of the Masters, has ruled out the possibility of women becoming members in the near future.
Augusta National has repeatedly turned down requests for female members under the chairmanship of Hootie Johnson, who leaves the post on 21 May.
"Membership matters are decided by club members and we have no timetable to discuss that issue," said Billy Payne, and he also said further lengthening of the Augusta National was unlikely.
The build-up to the 2003 Masters was overshadowed by a disagreement between Hootie Johnson and Martha Burk, the head of the National Council for Women's Organisations.
Hootie Johnson was asked whether he would appreciate a telephone call on the subject from Martha Burk and he replied: "I'm very aware of her position and I don't see at this time that any other dialogue would be meaningful and helpful."
Meanwhile, Billy Payne, 58, wouldn't rule out the possibility of a tournament golf ball for the Masters if he felt the governing bodies were not doing enough to limit gains in distance.
"While we would hope that a resolution would come as quickly as possible through the normal process, we would not take that option off the table," said Billy Payne.
And regarding the course itself, Billy Payne said: "I think we have it just about right now. We remain hopeful that some limitations will be placed on equipment that will diminish the gains in distance."
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Last Updated ( Friday, 12 May 2006 )
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