NOTEBOOK From Augusta


Johnson lurking: Zach Johnson got another surprise at the Masters. This one wasn’t quite as good as last year’s; nothing tops getting your very own green jacket. But it’s a good bet no other player had the governor of his home state in the gallery, as the defending champion did Thursday when Iowa’s Chet Culver showed up. “I did not know he was going to be here,” Johnson said after shooting a 2-under 70 in the first round that left him tied for sixth. “To see his face, I was a little bit surprised. But looking back on it now, being from Iowa and knowing the people and knowing what it’s all about, certainly meeting Governor Culver and his family, the support is second to none. Granted, that’s where I’m from, so I’m a little biased.” The self-proclaimed “normal guy” from Iowa surprised just about everybody when he held off Tiger Woods to win the Masters last year. His victory was considered by many to be little more than a fluke of the weather. The blustery cold prevented others from going low and allowed him to play it safe — he didn’t go for a single par 5 all week — and his 1-over 289, tied for highest winning scorer in Masters history.

Play(er) it again: Gary Player’s latest triumph at Augusta National was 51 years in the making. The three-time champion is playing in his 51st Masters this week, topping the record for most played that he’d shared with Arnold Palmer. “It’s a thrill. It’s a thrill to know now I hold the record,” Player said. “Of course, all records are made to be broken, aren’t they? ... Somebody will come along and break 51 one day, I guess.” Raymond Floyd has the next-longest streak among active players, and he’s playing in his 44th Masters. Ben Crenshaw made his 37th start at Augusta National on Thursday.

Oberholser out: With a 1-under 71 Thursday, it would seem Arron Oberholser’s array of injuries are behind him. Not even close. Oberholser said he will take at least the next two months off after the Masters, and has already received a medical exemption for next season. He’s played only three other events this season. “I can’t be out there hitting balls or doing anything,” he said. “If I take two months completely off and then don’t hit a ball and try to come back in the middle of the summer, it’s going to take me a month to get my game back to where I want it to be, anyway.”

Associated Press

By using this site, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of use.

» Accept
» Learn More