THE 16 Europeans in the Masters at Augusta were unable to enjoy one of the highlights of their week last night. A dinner traditionally attended by all non-American players was cancelled and replaced by a cocktail party.

According to the Augusta National Club the dinner began in the early years of the Masters when only a handful of overseas players participated. This year they comprise 29 of the 105-strong field.

Ian Woosnam said: "They're getting so many players now and it's hard to organise because you always had to have a member to go with every player. Maybe they're running out of members.

"There must have been nearly 70 people there last year. It was quite a big thing really. I know they've got plenty of money, but it is pretty expensive."

Bernhard Langer, another former champion, added: "It was always nice to see everyone from all around the world and I'm surprised they cancelled it."

South African Gary Player, the first overseas winner, acted as unofficial host and said: "I don't know why they are not going to have it.

"It was always a very enjoyable occasion. Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts (the two co-founders of the Masters) came up with it, so I thought a lot of it."

It would have been a particularly special memory for Swede Patrik Sjoland, Dane Thomas Bjorn and Spaniard Sergio Garcia, the reigning British amateur champion. They are all first-timers at the Masters.

Garcia will still be attending a dinner of amateur players and has also been given the rare distinction of a pre-tournament conference with the world's media tomorrow. The 19-year-old is expected to turn professional after the event.

Six of the Europeans - Langer, Woosnam, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle, Seve Ballesteros and Jose Maria Olazabal - also, of course, attend the past champions dinner hosted by holder Mark O'Meara in the clubhouse tonight.

O'Meara chooses the menu and has selected Japanese sushi and sashimi for starters, followed by Mexican fajitas.