Went Thursday and played golf at Sage Valley on Friday. Great experience EXCEPT getting out of Augusta on Friday afternoon. Flight delays were terrible, and ended up getting back about 24 hours late into Houston. I'm sure it isn't typical, but would probably fly into Columbia SC next time.
Was able to watch the honorary tee with Jack/Arnie/Gary. Definitely worth getting up early for, and you can get right on top of them at the tee for great views. Bubba and Rickie Fowler (with girlfriend) were there as well to watch.
Highlight of my trip to the tourney was hanging in Berckman's Place and being able to chat with Condoleeza Rice for a while putting on the greens surrounding the club. She was very engaging and genuine. Evidently they always have members walking around and greeting folks, but she didn't come off as just checking a box and shaking hands. Berckman's Place is amazing, and even more amazing they only use it for a week a year.
The gift shop is a sight to behold. I bought a couple of shirts, coozies and hat, and still managed to spend about $400. Nothing is overpriced, it just seems to add up. I'd be interested to know how much they sell per SF in that place during Master's week.
I haven't followed the golfers a lot, or seen many tournaments. I will say the most impressive thing to me about the tournament is the absolute expectation of perfection the organizers have, and the attention to detail to make it so. It has inspired me to be more aggressive in my professional life in that regards as well. From the staff, the grounds, parking, restrooms, concessions, and on and on. Nothing that hasn't been thought of or fine tuned.
Sage Valley was a great course to play. You walk and it's with a caddy (first for me). It's only about 30 minutes from Augusta.