The Masters begins Thursday, and South Carolina-based financier Darla Moore called her invitation to become one of the first two female members of Augusta National "humbling" and a "lifetime honor." Moore was invited to join the club last year along with former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, ending Augusta National's infamous ban of female members. But MSNBC’s Craig Melvin said of Moore, "Do not expect her to make waves for women at her new golf club.” Melvin asked Moore, “Are you going to push for more female members?” Moore: “I wouldn’t think that would be something I would do.” Melvin interjected and said, “That surprises me coming from you.” Moore: “I’m very happy and very honored to one of the first members. That wouldn’t be my role there. I’m a member. I’m not an advocate” (GOLFCHANNEL.com, 4/7).
FEELING GREEN: Golf Channel’s Steve Sands noted Rice was at Augusta National yesterday and played a practice round with Phil Mickelson and his manager. Following the round, Rice “was on the practice facility wearing the green jacket … we believe for the very first time in public” (“Golf Central Pregame,” Golf Channel, 4/7). Mickelson indicated Rice asked "questions about the course while he was more interested in asking her about countries and business.” Golf Channel's Holly Sonders said Mickelson “had high praise for her golf game, saying that she is a ‘phenomenal putter’” (“Morning Drive,” Golf Channel, 4/8).
