Source: Washington Post -- Read Full Story

Four times champion Arnold Palmer hit the ceremonial first shot at the par-four opening hole before lingering fog delayed the start of the 72nd Masters by an hour at Augusta National Golf Club on Thursday. The 78-year-old American, a crowd favorite at Augusta since his debut in 1955, struck his drive straight down the middle before his ball disappeared in the fog. "I've hit it out of sight," the seven times major winner said with a smile. Palmer had been formally introduced on the first tee by Augusta National chairman Billy Payne. "It is my distinct honor and pleasure to introduce to you this morning a man who is synonymous with the game of golf and the Masters," Payne said. "Ladies and gentlemen, on the tee a man respected around the world, Mister Arnold Palmer." One hour later, after the fog was burned off by early morning sunshine, American Ben Curtis struck the tournament's first competitive shot by teeing off at the first. Curtis was followed by his compatriot and playing partner Shaun Micheel.