Women join the Augusta club, for first time in 80 years

For the first time in its 80-year history, Augusta National Golf Club has female members.

The home of the US Masters, under increasing criticism over the last decade because of its all-male membership, invited former secretary of state Condoleezza Rice and South Carolina financier Darla Moore to become the first women in green jackets when the club opens for a new season in October. Both women accepted.

“This is a joyous occasion,” said Augusta National chairman Billy Payne.