Practice resumes with dry weather at the Masters

After a stormy beginning to the week, with more than an inch of rain falling on Augusta National Golf Club, players got back on the course for Tuesday-morning practice beneath high clouds and sun.

“I know we’re going to have good weather,” Hunter Mahan said. “But it’s probably not going to dry out completely except for the greens.”

The fans returned too, crowding around the driving range and watching groups that set out on practice rounds.

Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson and Jason Dufner were playing together. So were Rory McIlroy and U.S. amateur champion Matthew Fitzpatrick.

“I have a big day to practice today,” Fred Couples said, “and get going better than I’ve been.”

First-round play is scheduled for Thursday with a forecast that calls for dry weather and temperatures into the low 80s through the weekend.