Golf-Fans can't see Woods for the trees at Australian Masters

MELBOURNE, Nov 12 (Reuters) - While Tiger Woods offered spectators a master class in shot-making at the Australian Masters on Thursday, some fans risked life and limb just to catch a glimpse of the world number one on his first visit Down Under in 11 years.

More than 21,000 flocked to Melbourne's Kingston Heath course for the opening round on Thursday, but with galleries six deep following Woods many fans were left with little more than a fleeting glimpse between an elbow or sweaty armpit.

"You'd be crazy to try to follow the galleries around with Woods all day," said Ufouk Ill, a seafood dealer from Melbourne's northern suburbs, as he strained to see the American on the par-four second.

But follow Woods they did.

The bravest climbed scaffolding built for television cameras to get a better view, while others plunged into tangles of tea trees to steal a march to the next hole.

Despite the risky climbing and charging across fairways too early at times, Woods said the fans were well-behaved.

"People down here are just great. They're very knowledgeable about the game and very excited," he said.

The 14-times major winner bagged seven birdies and thrilled fans with some stunning approach shots on the way to a six-under 66 and a share of the lead with local hope James Nitties and South African Branden Grace.

After Woods holed out on the greens, many spectators elected to race off to the next hole to get a better vantage point for his tee-shot, rather than stick around to watch his Australian playing partners Rod Pampling and Craig Parry putt.