Bangor Amateur Golfer Wins $4 Bet with Jack Nicklaus at Masters

Garth McGimpsey's 1986 Masters debut nearly ended in controversy before his resilience shone through.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:42pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the 12th hole at Augusta National Golf Club, with sharp, overlapping planes representing the intense focus and determination of an amateur golfer preparing to take on the Masters tournament.An amateur golfer's determined preparation for the Masters is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the iconic 12th hole at Augusta National.Bangor Today

In 1986, amateur golfer Garth McGimpsey from Bangor, Maine, made headlines when he won a $4 bet against legendary Jack Nicklaus by sinking a hole-in-one on the 12th hole at Augusta National during Masters week. However, McGimpsey's Masters debut was nearly derailed when he got into a heated argument with tournament officials over his practice routine, nearly leading to his expulsion from the tournament before officials relented and allowed him to continue competing.

Why it matters

McGimpsey's story highlights the fine line between triumph and adversity that amateur golfers face when competing at the highest levels. His ability to overcome the controversy and make the most of his Masters debut showcases the resilience and determination required to succeed in the sport.

The details

In the weeks leading up to the 1986 Masters, McGimpsey challenged Nicklaus to a $4 bet that he could sink a hole-in-one on the par-3 12th hole at Augusta. To Nicklaus' surprise, McGimpsey pulled off the feat, winning the wager. However, during the Par-Three contest, McGimpsey's intense practice on the 12th tee led to a heated argument with tournament officials, who accused him of disrupting the event and threatened to expel him from the tournament. After recognizing McGimpsey's exceptional talent and the unique circumstances, the officials ultimately allowed him to continue competing, and he went on to have a successful Masters debut.

  • In the weeks leading up to the 1986 Masters, McGimpsey made the $4 bet with Nicklaus.
  • During the 1986 Masters Par-Three contest, McGimpsey's practice on the 12th tee led to the confrontation with tournament officials.

The players

Garth McGimpsey

An amateur golfer from Bangor, Maine, who was the reigning Amateur champion and making his debut at the 1986 Masters.

Jack Nicklaus

The legendary professional golfer who lost a $4 bet to McGimpsey when the amateur sank a hole-in-one on the 12th hole at Augusta National.

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What they’re saying

“We must allow players the opportunity to prepare, even if it means bending the rules a bit. Garth's talent and dedication deserve that chance.”

— Augusta National Official

What’s next

McGimpsey went on to have a successful Masters debut, navigating the challenges of the course and the pressure of the tournament.

The takeaway

McGimpsey's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, perseverance and a unique perspective can lead to remarkable outcomes in the world of golf.