An 18-year-old high school senior is set for a dream debut at the Masters, after being grouped with defending champion Rory McIlroy and Cameron Young. Mason Howell, still in his final year of school, earned his place by winning the US Amateur Championship, a feat previously achieved by golfing greats such as Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Phil Mickelson.
Howell will play the opening two rounds alongside his idol McIlroy, who gave him a golf ball at the 2016 Tour Championship. “I’ll be super excited but at the same time I’ll be super nervous,” Howell said. “Rory was one of my idols growing up, so it’ll be a super special moment for me. I can’t ogle at his game too much. I got to focus on myself. It’ll be fun.”
The teenager, who is committed to the University of Georgia, aims to control his emotions and stick to his game plan. “Just putting four good rounds together. That’s kind of a good goal for me, and I think soaking it all in and putting a smile on my face,” he added.
Howell tees off at 3.31pm UK time on Thursday. Elsewhere, tournament favourite Scottie Scheffler is in the penultimate group alongside Robert MacIntyre and Gary Woodland. Ceremonial starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson will begin the day’s play before the first competitive group.
