But the team had still finished second in the Premiership, ahead of Manchester United for the first time since long before Houllier's arrival on Merseyside.

BBC: Profile: Gerard Houllier

It was believed to be the first time an American president has greeted a world dignitary on arrival at Andrews.

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The Plastiki's arrival in Sydney will not, however, be the 60-foot catamaran's first time to reach Australian soil.

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Casey was one of the first golfers to talk to Tiger Woods on the practice range since the four-time Masters winner's arrival at the Augusta National.

BBC: Paul Casey aims to be English winner at Masters