A simple bridge can transform a simple creek.
Set against the backdrop of a difficult Par 3 on a private golf course about 150 miles from Atlanta, Hogan Bridge is more than just a pathway spanning Rae's Creek.
The two are part of the stadium that makes up the middle hole of Amen Corner at Augusta National Golf Club. It is one of those places that transcend all the competitors and becomes a spectacle on its own.
It is what makes the Masters Tournament one of the most anticipated sporting events every year.
Tiger Woods entered this week as the clear favorite. His dominance of golf over the past six months has been close to unreal, winning eight of his last 10 tournaments and finishing second and fifth in the other two.
Experts and fans talked of Tiger completing a calendar-year grand slam. But as he continued to struggle throughout the weekend, Tiger was a part of the story, but not the entire story.
Augusta is bigger than Tiger.
The winner does not have to be a big name for the event to be special. The Masters still entrances sports fans regardless of their interest in golf.
Zach Johnson had one PGA Tour victory before conquering Tiger and Augusta in 2007, showing that if you stick to your game plan, you can succeed.
Phil Mickelson went from "The Best Player Never To Have Won A Major" to Masters champion in 2004 after sinking a birdie putt on the 18th hole. Lefty has since captured two more major championships, including a second Masters in 2006.
Mike Weir won a green jacket in 2003, gaining the adoration of fans from his home in Canada. Even though he has struggled with injuries since that victory, Weir's victory still resonates in the minds of Canadian sports fans.
And, of course, Tiger burst dramatically onto the scene with a 12-stroke victory in 1997, his first major on a long road to Jack Nicklaus' 18.
These are only recent examples of how a Masters win raises its champion.
Unlike many of the great sports championships, the Masters is played at the same course every year. It does not rotate sites like the other three golf majors.
2008 Woodie Awards
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