THE CHERVÒ EXPERIENCE
The Masters Tournament is one of the most prestigious events in the golf world, with top players from around the globe competing for the coveted green jacket. As fans and players alike gear up for this year's Masters Week, we wanted to delve deeper into the behind-the-scenes preparations that go into playing at such a high level.
To gain insight into the world of professional golf and the preparation needed for this tournament, we interviewed former pro golfer and current pro coach, Hernan Rey. With years of experience both as a player and a coach, Hernan has a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to prepare for such a high-pressure event.Hernan fell in love with the game of golf at the young age of 8 years old in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Introduced to it by his father, he had the opportunity to play a lot with Roberto De Vicenzo (1967 Open Champion). By age 15 he was a scratch golfer and won the South American Junior Team Championship.
While completing his MBA he worked as an assistant coach for JSU, eventually turning pro for 13 years and in over 50 countries.Playing mainly on the European Tour, Challenge Tour, PGA Tour Latin America, Hernan retired from playing professionally in 2013 to pursue his true passion, coaching. Fast forward to 2023, Hernan's player will be competing at the Master's this week. This will be his second player that has qualified into the most prestigious tournament in the world.
In this blog, we'll share the insider tips and tricks that Hernan revealed to us, including the mental and physical preparation required for players to perform at their best during Masters Week. From best viewing location to course strategy, we'll explore everything that goes into getting ready for this prestigious event.
Q: Hernan, give us a behind the scenes insight to what happens on the days leading up to the Masters?
A: The Behind the Scenes prep leading up to the Masters is actually very cool and exciting! Every player that is qualified gets 5 rounds to practice on the course beforehand. This course is not an easy one, it’s very strategic - just like a chess match. So it’s crucial that the players know what places to avoid and what places to be extra aggressive in for maximum preparation. The day I took my student for his practice rounds, we got to play alongside Tom Brady and Rory Mcllroy and had lunch right next to Scottie Schieffler, so that was a fun experience.
Q: Give us a little background about your player who is competing in the Masters?
A: My player is 22 year old Mateo Fernandes De Oliveira and he is a senior at University of Arkansas, who is currently in the top 30 amateurs in the world. Mateo won the Latin American Amateur Championship shooting 23 under in Puerto Rico, qualifying himself into the Masters. He is originally from Argentina, just like me, so it makes this experience all the more special.
Q: What are your “Masters Must Do’s” - Is there a particular viewing spot that is your favorite?
A: If this is your first Masters experience in Augusta, I would highly recommend scoping out the courses beforehand. The Masters is so special and unlike any other tournament because it holds tradition - it’s the only tournament that repeats the same exact course every year. So it’s extra special to go out and explore the course alone and get to see the iconic holes where the best players in the world made history such as Tiger Woods. For me, the best place to watch the action is from the iconic par 3 behind the tee box, you can see the second shot on 11 and see the tee shot on the par 3-12. Another absolute MUST at the Masters is getting the pimento cheese sandwich, it’s amazing!
Q: What are your top 3 strategies you focus on with your player to get him prepared for the big week?
A: As you know, the playing in the Masters takes an enormous amount of preparation, here are my top three strategies I focus on with my players beforehand .Number one, is to make sure that the players can successfully make the shots that each course requires - each one is unique and special so it’s important they know how and where to shoot on each one depending on their levels and curves. Then, we focus on their strategies for every single hole and how they’re going to play depending on the pin position and the wind. Lastly but most importantly, I focus on mentality. I can’t stress this enough; your mentality in the game is everything. I help my players visualize their success entirely to help with their confidence and calm down the nerves to get a good night's sleep before the big day.
Q: What are your fashion must-haves for the Masters?
A: You know I am not wearing anything but my Chervò gear to the masters. The tournament is all about the glamor and looking your best but don’t forget to prioritize comfort - which is why Chervò is the perfect match for the Masters. Since it’s just the beginning of Spring, I’d recommend having fun with bold and bright colors. Be sure to pack some sweaters just in case, Augusta could be a bit chilly in the mornings, and of course comfortable Thank you to Hernan for giving us the ultimate guide to navigating the Masters held in Augusta, Georgia. Now you’re ready to experience the most prestigious golf tournament in the world, with tips and tricks from a pro.
