McConnell Golf Presents ROAD TO AUGUSTA with Ward Clayton: Augusta Native PGA Tour Caddie William Lanier on Masters Walking, Yardage Books & Augusta National SecretsIn this episode of McConnell Golf presents Road to Augusta, host Ward Clayton sits down with Augusta native and PGA Tour caddie William Lanier for a rare inside look at Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament.A fourth-generation Augustan, Lanier shares his journey from LSU golf and the mini-tours to walking inside the ropes as a PGA Tour caddie, including experiences at The Masters. He explains why caddying is far more than carrying a bag—breaking down strategy, preparation, and the physical demands of Augusta, including 26,000-step practice rounds.Lanier also reveals key insights into playing Augusta National:• The pressure of the first tee at the Masters• Critical approach shots like No. 3• The mental and physical test of Amen Corner (11, 12, 13)• How to read the swirling winds at No. 12• The truth behind “everything breaks to Rae’s Creek”Plus, a deep dive into yardage books—how they’re created, why they matter, and how Lanier designs detailed books used by college (ACC/SEC) and professional players.The episode also explores:• Augusta’s evolution and Masters traditions• Local Augusta courses, food, and culture• Behind-the-scenes look at Masters yardage books and caddie gearThis is a must-watch for golf fans, players, and anyone who wants to understand what makes Augusta National the most unique course in the world.⛳ CHAPTERS00:00 Augusta Roots00:44 Meet William Lanier01:49 Learning Golf Young03:09 From LSU to Mini Tours03:42 Turning Pro to Caddying06:30 Masters Memories07:37 Caddying Resume09:42 Walking Augusta Hills12:52 First Tee Pressure15:02 Amen Corner Stress18:29 Reading Winds at 1219:30 Yardage Books Secrets22:34 Sketching the Course23:16 Making Yardage Books24:21 From Hobby to Clients25:37 Origins of Yardage Books27:09 Augusta Book Details29:33 Everything Breaks to Rae31:40 How Augusta Has Changed35:00 Quickfire Masters Favorites37:24 Best Local Spots40:07 Caddying Life Lessons41:27 Show and Tell Gear44:35 Masters SendoffWelcome to the North Carolina Sports NetworkYour home for everything in the BOLD NORTH STATE and beyond—covering the Masters, PGA TOUR, ACC athletics, and the stories behind the game.🎥 Stories. 🎙️ Podcasts. 📊 Analysis.👇 Subscribe & follow:🌐 ncsportsnetwork.com🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple & more📲 @TheNCSportsNetWelcome to the North Carolina Sports Network!Your home for all things sports in the Bold North State — from the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, PGA TOUR, and NASCAR to the heart of ACC and college athletics.🎥 Stories. 🎙️ Podcasts. 📊 Analysis.Covering the legends, the rising stars, and everything in between.👇 Subscribe & follow:🌐 ncsportsnetwork.com🎧 Podcasts: Spotify, Apple & more📲 @TheNCSportsNet on all platforms#NCsports #BoldNorthState