Welcoming course conditions yet to translate into low scores

A sunny morning with mild temperatures and little wind greeted golfers as the 76th Masters Tournament opened Thursday. But the welcoming conditions have yet to translate into low scores at Augusta National Golf Club.

With two-thirds of the 96-man field on the course, only 12 were under par as the clock struck noon. Henrik Stenson led at 3-under through six holes, with Martin Kaymer and Stewart Cink tied for second at 2-under. Kaymer carded a 34 on the front nine and is approaching Amen Corner.

Stenson eagled the par-5 second hole and birdied the par-4 fifth to take the early lead.

The course has surrendered four eagles so far, all on par-5s. In addition to Stenson, Padraig Harrington eagled No. 2, Adam Scott carded a 3 on the eighth, and Paul Lawrie eagled the 13th to move to 1-under.