With thousands of fans ringing the first tee, Arnold Palmer started the 71st Masters Tournament with the ceremonial tee shot. Palmer, a four-time Masters winner, accepted the invitation of Augusta National and Masters Chairman Billy Payne to become the honorary starter. He didn't disappoint.With a familiar swing, Palmer launched his tee shot with a slight draw. The patrons, many who had been in line since before dawn to get a good spot, roared their approval."It's a great thrill for me and an honor," Palmer said afterwards. "I didn't want to top it. I actually hit it
pretty good."

Honorary starters have been part of the Masters tradition since 1963 when Jock Hutchinson and Fred McLeod started it. The tee shot on the first hole signaled that golf's first major of the year is under way. The tradition has
gained popularity in the early 1980s when Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson and Sam Snead became regular starters. Arnold Palmer said he put off assuming the role of ceremonial starter at the Masters until the time was right. Three years removed from his final appearance as a contestant, Arnold Palmer
returned to the first tee at Augusta National, as the honorary starter. With a wide smile on his tan face, golf's recognized King got the 71st Masters Tournament off to a rousing and respectful start.

· Signed Jack Nicklaus
1986 Masters Flag