Longtime Masters starter, Augusta National member Harison dies at 82

by C&RB Staff (editor@clubandresortbusiness.com)
May 2008
 

Phil Harison, who introduced everyone from Ben Hogan to Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods during his 60 years as the starter on the first tee of the Masters, has died of natural causes, Augusta National Golf Club said to the Associated Press. He was 82.

Harison was one of two people to attend every Masters since it began in 1934, and he became a familiar voice to the many fans who grew accustomed to his Southern drawl and understated manner of announcing each player.

Harison grew up in a house that was beyond the first green at Augusta National and has since been torn down. He joined his father and brother as a member when he was 21, and was a good golfer.