Augusta, Georgia: Fred Couples is old enough to play on the 50-and-over circuit, but he's not ready for the old folks home just yet. In fact, he could be on the verge of major golf championship history.
The 50-year-old American birdied four of the last seven holes to fire a six-under par 66 on Thursday and seize a one-stroke lead after the opening round of the 74th Masters, leading an impressive showing from the oldies but goodies.
"I'm not surprised, but I'm thrilled," Couples said.
"I thought I could come here and play well, because I have been playing well."
Couples could become the oldest winner in major golf history, breaking the mark of Julius Boros, who was 48 when he won the 1968 PGA Championship, and the oldest Masters winner, surpassing Jack Nicklaus at age 46 in 1986.
Maintaining the loose-limbed form that has swept him to victories in his last three starts on the seniors tour, Couples birdied four of the last seven holes to break clear of the field.
On a gripping day featuring sudden weather changes and electric displays by several former champions, 60-year-old Tom Watson defied his age to share second place on 67 with fellow American Phil Mickelson, Britain's Lee Westwood and South Koreans Yang Yong-eun and KJ Choi.
American Anthony Kim birdied the last three holes for a 68, finishing level with compatriots Woods, Nick Watney and Ricky Barnes, and British world No 7 Ian Poulter.
The main focus amid the Georgian pines and heavily contoured layout was on four-times champion Woods who looked composed as he started one of the most eagerly anticipated rounds of all time.
Despite not having competed since winning the Australian Masters on November 15 following stunning revelations about his extra-marital affairs, he raced to the turn in three-under following two birdies, a bogey and an eagle at the eighth where he coaxed in a curling eight-footer.
"It felt really good just to get out there, get into the rhythm of the round and... go about my business," Woods said.
"Unfortunately I didn't putt very well today otherwise it would have been a pretty special round."
