The national reaction to the Augusta National Golf Club finally allowing female members has been mostly positive. People like PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem as well as noted golfers Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam all came out with praise for Augusta for finally permitting women to join.
Finchem released a statement complimenting Augusta chairman Billy Paine.
At a time when women represent one of the fastest growing segments in both playing and following the game of golf, this sends a positive and inclusive message for our sport.
Woods, who knows new member Condoleeza Rice via the Stanford University grapevine, released a statement to the Associated Press.
I think the decision by the Augusta National membership is important to golf. The [c]lub continues to demonstrate its commitment to impacting the game in positive ways. I would like to congratulate both new members, especially my friend Condi Rice.
Sorenstam released a statement on her website.
I was delighted to hear the news this morning that Augusta National has allowed two female members into their club. The women invited, Condoleezza Rice and Darla Moore, are highly respected women and business leaders. They will be great representatives for women in the game.
However, not all of the reaction has been positive. There has been a lot of sarcasm from those on Twitter, including one in particular by Rick Reilly. Gord Miller of TSN had an equally sarcastic response to Augusta's decision, only with less political implications.
Augusta National announces addition of first female members, now considering ordering calendars where the year starts with a "2".
— Gord Miller (@GMillerTSN) August 20, 2012
Joe Kepner, sports anchor at Orlando's WFTV, also appeared to be unimpressed, considering what women have done prior to being admitted at Augusta.
Hard to believe women went into space, fought in battle, and ran entire countries before they were allowed membership at Augusta National.
— Joe Kepner (@JoeKepner) August 20, 2012
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