Gatlin Brothers come to Augusta for Crenshaw

The Gatlin Brothers spent all Thursday night in a bus, as the country music group made a 393-mile trek from Nashville, Tenn., to Augusta National Golf Club.

They weren’t going to miss Ben Crenshaw’s final round.

The friendship between Crenshaw and the Gatlin Brothers – Larry, Steve and Rudy – spans more than three decades and involves a unique tie to the Masters Tournament.

“When Ben won in 1984, me and Larry were staying in his house,” Steve Gatlin said. “We were his house guests. That was one of the greatest weeks of my life. In all seriousness, it actually felt like I won the Masters.”

Steve Gatlin first came to the Masters in 1983 and has rarely missed the tournament since.

But it’s his second Masters visit that stands out.

“It’s the greatest sports memory of my life,” Steve said of staying with Crenshaw in 1984. “Ben’s a Texas guy, and these Texans we’ve known forever.”

The youngest brother, Rudy Gatlin, took a spring skiing vacation during the 1984 Masters, Steve said Friday while standing outside the Augusta National clubhouse.

“It’s his miss, not mine,” said Steve, laughing. “In Rudy’s defense, though, he had no idea Ben was going to win the green jacket. If he did, I’m sure he would’ve been here.”

This evening, after Crenshaw’s final round, the Gatlin Brothers are scheduled to perform at a dinner ceremony for the two-time Masters winner.

“There’s a get-together for Ben and we’re gonna perform a few songs,” Steve said. “We’re so excited and honored to be part of this experience.”

1984: Ben Crenshaw earns first Masters title

1995: Ben Crenshaw wins emotional Masters

Ben Crenshaw expects emotional final run at Masters

Ben Crenshaw plays final practice round with Jordan Spieth, Tiger Woods

Crenshaw fans see him off on final Masters appearance