I went to the Masters, and it was unlike anything I've ever seen at a sporting event

The Masters you see on TV is a very pretty sight, but it's nothing compared to what it's like being there in person.

I was able to attend the Tuesday practice round of the Masters in 2014, thanks to a buddy who won the ticket lottery and had an extra ticket.

My buddy grew up in Augusta and had been to the tournament many times. It was great having a local tour guide.

Words and photos don't really do Augusta National justice, but I'll try my best to explain what it's like walking around there.

I'd been to a few golf tournaments before. In 2013, I went to the Thursday round of the U.S. Open at Merion. I also covered the Barclays in Jersey City for Business Insider.

Those are both nice events, but they're nothing like the Masters. It's a completely different experience, from the food to the crowds to - most important - the course. If you like golf at all, you owe it yourself to go there at least once.

Let me show you why …