AUGUSTA, Ga. – Farewell, Gentle Ben.
Ben Crenshaw closed out his Masters career with two rounds he would prefer to forget, but a lifetime of memories from his 44 appearances at Augusta National.
Crenshaw, a two-time Masters champion, was greeted by his longtime caddie, Carl Jackson, when he came off the green for the final time after making another bogey at the 18th hole.
Jackson wasn’t in good enough health to carry the clubs for 36 holes, so he turned over the duties to his younger brother Bud, a longtime caddie at Augusta National. But Carl donned the white coveralls, with Crenshaw’s name on the back, and walked slowly on the green to hug the golfer after he tapped out for a 13-over 85.
The 63-year-old Crenshaw finished last in the field with a 176 – 32 over par.
Defending Master champion Bubba Watson, having just finished his round about a half-hour earlier, was among those who came out to watch Crenshaw close out his playing career. His wife, three daughters, and other family members were also there for the emotional scene.