In front of a huge crowd, the ‘Big Three’ of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player launched the 80th Masters yesterday. On a glorious morning of bright sunshine at Augusta National, three-times winner Player and Nicklaus, who won a record six Green Jackets, hit the ceremonial first shots at the par-four opening hole while a frail Palmer, 86, looked on. The 80-year-old Player was thrilled to outdrive Nicklaus by some 15 yards after striking a solid blow right up the middle, his ball ending up below the crest of the hill as a packed gallery cheered loudly. Picture shows Nicklaus (left), Palmer (centre) and Player posing for photographers before the first tee.