A man who was present at every Masters since the tournament began in 1934 has died at the age of 82.
Phil Harison was well-known to players and fans as the starter on the first tee at Augusta, where his understated announcements of the world''s top golfers and distinctive Southern American accent became synonymous with the event.
Described as "the face of the Masters to many patrons" by tournament chairman Billy Payne, Mr Harison grew up in a house near the first green at Augusta and recovered from a car accident to continue with his starter role in 2007.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Phil Harison," Mr Payne stated.
"Phil was a cherished member who made significant contributions to the Masters."
Mr Harison became a member of Augusta National aged 21 and spent 60 years as the first tee starter.
This year''s Masters was won by the South African Trevor Immelman, who beat Tiger Woods by three shots at Augusta to clinch his first Major victory.
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