Augusta National restrictions

I'm going to the Wednesday practice round next week and while this is my third trip there it is my first trip where I will be actively taking photos. In the past I've only had a point and shoot to use. Cameras are allowed during the practice rounds and in all of the parerwork I've received from Augusta National the only restrictions on sizes seems to be limited to carry in bags, purses and backpacks.
I wanted to carry in my 500mmf/4L with a Kirk shoulder strap. I plan on wearing a vest with my 70-200mmf/2.8 in a pocket and my 24-70mm on my Mk IV.
After reading a couple of other threads it sounds like the 500 might be banned due to the size. If anyone has any recent experience with this I'd sure appreciate your insight.
I was at the PGA last year and there were no restrictions on lens size however this is Augusta National and it is a special place.
Thanks
Ed

Ed:

I go to the Firestone / Bridgestone tournament and shoot during practice rounds. Two years ago, I learned my lesson when my backpack (Tamrac) wasn't allowed in. Cameras/lenses, no problem. Backpack? Take back to car!

This past tournament, I wore a pair of cargo shorts and loaded 2 short lenses in there and loaded the 70-200 f/2.8L on the 7D and my 135L on the 5D. No problem at all getting in with most of my gear. Was kind of a pain lugging it around during the August heat, though.

Not sure what the rules at Augusta Nat'l will be, but probably similar in that they don't allow cell phones, bags, umbrellas, and plenty of other items through the admission gates. Even on Wednesdays!

Good luck. Can't wait to see some shots.

dave

You've probably found this link already, and it may be too late to expect an answer, but just in case, here's a page where you can contact them:

http://www.augusta.com​/masters/stories/email​.shtml

And you've probably also seen this page of restricted items:

http://www.augusta.com …s/masters/dos_d​onts.shtml

If I had to guess, I'd say the 500 might not get in, because they are very protective against anything that might interfere with other patrons. The Masters is probably the best sporting event in the world for the ticket-holders. It's very organized, the staff is very polite, and they're not just in it for the money. Take a look at the concession price list in that second link; it looks like something out of the 1960's. It's cheaper than eating at Mickey D's, and you get to do it on one of the most stunning pieces of real estate around.

Thanks for the replies. I've sent an e-mail asking if it was allowed but have not heard back yet. They certainly do treat the patrons with a lot of respect and in turn I don't want to offend them. I'm probably not going to chance the 500mm but I will carry my 70-200 in a vest pocket and the 24-70 on the camera. I was there in 97 and 05. It may not be the home of golf but it sure is a little piece of golf heaven on earth.
Ed

There's another thread going on in the Lens section that says at the Masters there is a measuring box you have to put your lens/camera in. Doesn't sound like the 500 will get in.