Veteran Masters starter, 82, dies

Phil Harison, who spent 60 years as the starter on the first tee of the Masters, has died at the age of 82.

Harison was one of two people to attend every Masters since it began in 1934.

He became a familiar voice to fans who grew accustomed to his American Southern drawl and understated manner of announcing each player.

Harison recovered from a car accident to serve as the starter one last time in 2007, mustering enough strength to announce only the first two groups.

Masters chairman Billy Payne said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Phil Harison.

"Phil was a cherished member who made significant contributions to the Masters.

"As the starter on the first tee, he was the face of the Masters to many patrons. He did a wonderful job in that role."

Harison grew up in a house near the first green at Augusta National, which has since been knocked down.

He joined his father and brother as a member at the age of 21.

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