Win, or no Masters for Ernie Els this week

It's simple for Ernie Els this weekend at the Shell Houston Open. Win, or he will miss The Masters for the first time since 1993.

The 'Big Easy' had himself in prime position last week at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay
Hill, to punch his ticket to Augusta -- A solo third finish, he was in.

However, a bogey on No. 17 would cost him.

That dropped shot, would turn out to be a very valuable stroke. He would finish fourth.

“Obviously, you go into a week, a fourth place - you’d probably take it." Said Els after his
round. "But it was a bit of bittersweet there again. I had a lot of chances today and kind of blew it a little bit.”

So now, Els heads to Houston and the Shell Houston Open, needing a win to secure a spot in the 2012 Masters.

Els has not fared well that often in Houston, however.

He's played in the event only four times since 2003. Finishing no better than T14 in 2009.

Other years saw him finish T51 last year, a T44 in 2010 and a T17 in 2003.

Of course in most years, Els didn't need to enter this event. As he was securely going to
Augusta.

So as many still relish in Tiger Woods first win since 2009. Els will head to Houston, knowing
his fate for Augusta is much like teams in March Madness.

Win or go home.