Four-times champion Arnold Palmer launched the 71st Masters at Augusta National Golf Club by hitting the ceremonial first shot at the par-four opening hole.

The 77-year-old American, a crowd favourite at Augusta since his debut in 1955, pulled his drive into the left rough on a bright, clear morning.

"Just as long as I didn't go right, I knew I was okay," Palmer told reporters with a smile.

The seven-times major champion, who made his 50th and final competitive appearance here in 2004, is performing the role as honourary starter at the Masters for the first time.

Moments later, fellow American Billy Mayfair struck the tournament's first competitive shot by teeing off at the first.

Mayfair was followed by his playing partner Ian Poulter of Britain.

World number four Phil Mickelson, who won his third major title by two strokes at Augusta National a year ago, was scheduled to launch his defence at 1056 local (1456 GMT).

Mickelson has been grouped with Australia's Adam Scott and US amateur champion Richie Ramsay of Britain for the first two rounds.

World number one and tournament favourite Tiger Woods, aiming for a fifth green jacket and 13th major title, tees off third from last at 1352 local in a group with Briton Paul Casey and Australian Aaron Baddeley.

Former champion Vijay Singh, who along with Woods is the only twice winner on the 2007 PGA Tour this year, plays in the penultimate group.

The pine tree-lined Augusta layout is expected to run firm and fast during the tournament with cool, dry weather forecast for all four rounds.

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