Though he fielded numerous questions about the controversy over the club's men-only membership at a news conference today, Woods elaborated little on his already stated positions.

But in an event that arrived with the dual themes of golf and gender equity, the skirmishing over Augusta's men-only membership continued unabated today.

Each plans a demonstration, in some manner, that deals with the men-only membership of Augusta National Golf Club.

On the eve of the 67th Masters, Johnson, Augusta National Golf Club's chairman, reiterated that the club was very comfortable with its men-only membership, and it had no timetable on when to invite a woman to join.

CHIP SHOTS Despite the controversy about Augusta National's men-only membership, players have not noticed any difference in their routines so far, and they hoped that would not change.

Despite the controversy over Augusta National Golf Club's men-only membership, Woods has given every indication that he will arrive in Augusta in April not only prepared to play, but determined to win.

With all the commotion over the club's men-only membership, next year's Masters is almost certain to attract protesters.

The association, the most famous of the four clubs whose men-only membership policies were at issue before the Court, had agreed in 1986 to abide by a final Court decision on the matter, whatever the outcome.

The presence of Palmer and Nicklaus will be more interesting this year, considering the controversy regarding Augusta National's men-only membership.

As theater, it was eye-catching, but in fact, the last week underscored how little had changed after months in the debate over the men-only membership at Augusta National.