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This Day in Sports History: Jack Nicklaus Wins His First Masters

The hallowed azalea-lined greens at the Masters have witnessed some of golf's greatest moments, turning champions into legends. Jack Nicklaus sits atop that list as the most decorated Masters winner, a run of greatness that started 57 years ago today with his first victory on April 7, 1963.

Nicklaus had only been competing as a pro for 15 months when he arrived in Augusta for the 27th Masters. He finished the first round tied for 16th place after shooting 74 but turned things around in the second to begin his dominant quest for his first green jacket.

Nicklaus shot a 66 with six birdies and 12 pars that Friday afternoon in what Sports Illustrated called "one of the finest single rounds ever played at Augusta National.