Woods, Mickelson get in early work at National

Preparations for the 77th Masters Tournament are in full swing today at Augusta National Golf Club, and plenty of big-name golfers are on site.

Tiger Woods teed off shortly after 2 p.m. He will be in the spotlight as the favorite this week as he seeks a fifth green jacket. Woods' last win at the Masters came in 2005, but this season he has won three times already.

Three-time winner Phil Mickelson played a practice round with new Augusta National member Condoleezza Rice. The former secretary of state sank a lengthy putt on the 18th green, and then exchanged congratulations with Mickelson.

A mix of amateurs, first-timers and veterans descended on Augusta National to get in some work before official practice rounds begin Monday. The tournament gets under way Thursday morning with the honorary starters ceremony featuring Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player.