Terrain surprises first-timer Stephen Gallacher

After walking Augusta National Golf Club for the first time this week, Stephen Gallacher said he was shocked by the depth and size of the sloping terrain.

The Scot, who is playing in his first Masters Tournament, said his first impression was how physically and mentally demanding the course is for walking.

“It’s a tough walk,” the 39-year-old said. “The first hole looks flat when you watch on television, but it has massive depth. The inclines and slopes surprised me.”

Gallacher successfully defended his title at the 2014 Dubai Desert Classic on Feb. 2 by shooting a third-round 63 to take the lead, and he held on to win by one stroke.

He has a top-10 stateside finish under his belt this year by tying for sixth in the WGC-Cadillac Championship. He has three career European Tour victories.

Gallacher said his first drive down Magnolia Lane this week was special, and he has already visited the merchandise store. He jokingly said his credit card has “taken a hit.”

“It’s a great course, great event,” he said. “The mystique, everything about it, is what I expected.”