NOTEBOOK | Masters

Remembering Virginia Tech community: With his school’s logo on his shirt, cap and golf bag, Drew Weaver looks a lot like all those other college kids who’ve been lucky enough to earn a spot at the Masters over the years. Except Weaver plays for Virginia Tech, and proudly representing his school has taken on a whole new meaning in the last year. “With everything that’s happened, I’m more than happy to wear the logo and try to put a positive reputation for the university out there,” he said Monday. “Every time that I go out with a Virginia Tech logo on my bag or my shirt or my hat, I’m going to be playing for all of our students and our faculty and everybody involved with the university. Obviously, those who passed on April 16 last year are going to be right in the forefront of who I’ll be playing for.” He wore the Virginia Tech logo and colors last summer, when he played in the British Open after a surprising victory at the British Amateur. Weaver was the first U.S. player to win the British Amateur since Jay Sigel in 1979. No American had even made the final since 1983. As the British Amateur champion, he also earned a spot at Augusta.

International invites: Prayad Marksaeng has a big group of fans this week — his entire country. Marksaeng is the third Thai-born golfer to play in the Masters, receiving one of the exemptions given to foreign players who wouldn’t otherwise qualify. Liang Wen-Chong of China and India’s Jeev Milka Singh also got exemptions, which are designed to help broaden golf’s appeal around the world. “I am representing my country this week, and it will energize golf,” said Prayad, 42. “Everyone will be watching the Masters.”

Special visit: Stephen Ames came up to Augusta National three weeks ago for a practice round, and he brought some company. Ames invited a teenager from his junior golf program in Trinidad, 17-year-old Ben Martin. “He’s still calling to say thank you,” Ames said. “He’s a good kid, a good player, and I’m glad I did it. He got to play eight holes, including Amen Corner, which he probably wasn’t supposed to do. It was lot of fun. This can open his eyes, let him see things he wouldn’t normally see, and picture where he wants to be someday.”

TV coverage: Thursday and Friday, 4-7 p.m. on ESPN; Saturday (third round), 3:30-7 p.m., CBS; Sunday (final round), 2:30-7 p.m., CBS

Associated Press