Rookies and veterans lured by Augusta's mystique

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

AUGUSTA, Georgia (Reuters) - Augusta National Golf Club, the spiritual home of American golf, retains a very special aura for U.S. Masters debutants and veterans alike.

First-timer Anthony Kim was blown away when he drove through the club gates earlier this week and 2003 champion Mike Weir still felt nostalgic about the venue while preparing for his 10th appearance in the year's opening major.

"I've waited a long time to get a tee time here and to finally be able to walk on the grounds was pretty special," American Kim, 23, told reporters in the build-up to Thursday's first round.

"I'm so excited and TV doesn't do it justice. It was really special going through those gates. My parents were in the car, and also my best friend."

Left-hander Weir, who became the first Canadian to win a major with his playoff victory over American Len Mattiace, loves coming back to the permanent home of the Masters.

"There is definitely a different and very special feel about Augusta with its mystique and aura," the 38-year-old told Reuters.

"Being the only major championship that is played at the same venue, there's that sense of nostalgia you get around here with all of its great history and the holes you get used to seeing year after year."

With its spectacular setting amid Georgian pines and blooming azaleas, the rolling par-72 layout at Augusta National is one of the most beautiful places in the world.