Golf: Masters course closed as storm nears

AUGUSTA: An approaching severe thunderstorm prompted officials to close Augusta National Golf Club during Monday's opening official practice round for the 81st Masters and asked spectators to evacuate the course.

Dark clouds loomed over the famed layout as players were scattered across the course and practice areas when the alert was raised.

Thousands of people had turned out despite earlier heavy rains to watch the world's top players ahead of Thursday's opening round in the year's first major men's golf championship.