For people hoping to play Torrey Pines and get a feel for the U.S. Open conditions before the South Course closes Wednesday to prepare for the championship, know this: The early golfer gets the tee time.

Dawn Patrol golfers became the Midnight Patrol as several groups showed up late Wednesday night to get in line to play yesterday morning. By 4:15 a.m., there were 25 bags perched on the deck of the Torrey clubhouse, and by 6 a.m., there were at least 50 people lined up in front of the starter's booth.

At 6 a.m., the first of 10 foursomes made it out before the first reserved tee times began at 7:30 a.m., said John Howard, who works in the starter's office. Dozens of golfers had to be turned away. Howard said one golfer who showed up at 6:30 was still waiting to play at 1 p.m.

Today, tomorrow and Sunday are the only remaining days that golfers can walk up to play Torrey. Howard said there is a shotgun start on the South on Monday and a full private buyout of the course Tuesday.

– TOD LEONARD