Patron notes

John Miles, 25, was among the first to the Augusta National practice area early Thursday morning. He helped his grandfather setup a chair directly in front of a green line that separated patrons from tournament players.

"It's exactly what I imagined," the first-time patron said as he helped his grandfather into the chair. "It's a botanical garden."

The Columbia, Mo., resident accompanied his grandfather, Steve Spray, who was making his 15th Masters visit. The 76-year-old reflected on the time he said he played with Gary Player at the club. Spray was a three-time Masters competitor between 1961 and 1969. 

MORE: See Steve Spray's score from the 1969 Masters Tournament

"I've talked about it a lot and just had to come back to see it," he said.

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Expectations were heightened for Ann Marie Lee, 59, who traveled from Chester County, Pa., for the tournament for the second time in five years.

She hoped for the "resurgence" of Tiger Woods.

"I think it would be kind of neat. He does seem to draw people in," she said.

But she felt Jordan Spieth would win this year.

PHOTOS: Patrons at Thursday's round of the Masters

"He's my favorite," she said.

This was not the case for Dani Williams, 37, and her husband, Van, 41, both of Sanford, N.C. The couple were pulling for Phil Mickelson.

"We're definitely Phil Mickelson fans," Dani said. "We'd like to see him do well."

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Junior Patron of the Day

Name: Audrey Graceholder

Age: 15

Home: Rocky Face, Ga.

Favorite golfer: Bubba Watson

Favorite sandwich: Barbecue sandwich

Thoughts on new Augusta National Women's Amateur Championship: "I think it is good. It's kind of like a goal for me to set to meet that potential," she said. "I don't know of any female golfers who inspire me, so this tournament will offer that."