Casey Martin found himself in need of a ride at the Augusta National Golf Club on Wednesday, and he found one. From a first-aid cart.

The disabled Nike Tour golfer was in town Wednesday to receive the Ben Hogan Award from the Golf Writers Association of America. Using a one-day grounds pass given to him by the association, Martin spent his afternoon admiring the course he continues to dream of playing.

``It's a pretty special place and I hope to play here some day,'' Martin said.

``I got a ride down to Amen Corner and checked it out, then kind of hung out around the clubhouse. I was doing my best to soak up all the atmosphere around.''

Born with a debilitating disorder known as Klippel Trenauney Webber Syndrome in his lower right leg, Martin successfully sued the PGA Tour for the right to use a cart in competition. The Hogan Award is given to an individual who has continued to be active in golf despite a physical handicap or illness.

In order to walk, Martin must wear a supportive stocking to minimize swelling in his right leg. He walks with a noticeable limp, and the pain in his leg increases with each step.

After receiving a standing ovation from the more than 400 writers and broadcasters at Bell Auditorium, Martin couldn't choke back his tears.

``I had something I had planned to say, but I don't think I'll be able to get through this,'' he said.

Also recognized Wednesday night at the annual banquet were Mark O'Meara, Se Ri Pak and Hale Irwin, the association's players of the year on their respective tours.

ABC commentator and Solheim Cup captain Judy Rankin won the Richardson Award for her contribution to golf. Masters participants Brad Faxon and Billy Andrade claimed the Bartlett Award for unselfish contributions for the betterment of society.

Masters organizers have indicated that if Martin does qualify for the Masters, it will comply with the federal court order issued last February and grant him the use of a cart in competition. His best finish in a PGA Tour event is a tie for 23rd at last year's U.S. Open.

Martin is slumping through his second season on the Nike Tour, a year after winning his first professional tournament in Lakeland, Fla., and finishing 29th on the money list.

With Martin's leg deteriorating, his window of Masters' opportunities shrinks with each day.

``I was definitely looking around to see what it would be like to play here, trying to envision me on the tees,'' Martin said. ``The 12th green is really tiny to look at it. It's a pretty intimidating shot.''