Chinese group thrilled to experience Masters

They flew more than 8,000 miles and took time away from work and family just to walk across the grounds.

For years, Ronald Lee and Patrick Li of China watched on television as the professionals played Augusta National Golf Club. They dreamed of experiencing the Masters in person.

"Actually, it's a dream for many golfers," Li said. "Like Islam people go to Mecca, most golfers would like to be one time in Augusta."

Nine Chinese residents made the pilgrimage to Augusta this year through a contest exclusively for Mercedes-Benz owners. Their names were pulled from a pool of nearly 500 people for an all-expenses-paid trip to the tournament, Lee said.

The group arrived for the first day of practice rounds Monday and stayed to see the first day of the tournament Thursday.

"It is the top, first-class golf game in the world, so I'm lucky to be here," Lee said.

When they left, they took more than souvenirs with them.

"I have flown all over the world, but will never have a memory like this," Lee said.

Reach Tracey McManus at (706) 823-3424 ortracey.mcmanus@augustachronicle.com.