The Masters Par-3 Contest is a beloved tradition that takes place on Wednesday during Masters week.
This fun, relaxed competition precedes the Masters Tournament and offers both players and patrons an opportunity to have some fun and enjoy the game in a more informal setting.
It’s not uncommon to see family (including kids) as caddies, 80 year old former champions, and little kids running around the course having the time of their lives.
First held in 1960, the Par-3 Contest was won by three-time Masters champion Sam Snead and has since grown into a popular event amongst golf fans and players alike.
The idea for this competition is credited to Clifford Roberts, the co-founder and former chairman of Augusta National.
The Par-3 Contest showcases the beauty and charm of the club’s Par-3 Course, which was built in 1958, and allows families and friends to gather and engage in a more playful side of professional golf.
The event takes place over a single round on a nine-hole, par-27 course designed in the northeast corner of the club’s grounds.
Related: 19 Facts About the Masters That You Probably Didn’t Know
Memorable Hole-in-Ones
Unsurprisingly, there have been numerous hole-in-ones during the Par 3 contest.
Gary Player
In 2016, 80 year old Gary Player, became the oldest to make a hole in one at the Par 3 contest:
Jack Nicklaus’s Grandson
Another unforgettable hole-in-one occurred in 2018 when Jack Nicklaus’ grandson, GT, aced the ninth hole as a caddie.
This special moment went viral, showcasing the family aspect and tradition of the Masters Par 3 Contest:
Notable Past Winners
Padraig Harrington holds the record for most wins with three: 2003, 2004, and 2012.
Two time Par 3 Contest winners include:
- Sam Snead: 1960, 1974
- Isao Aoki: 1975, 1981
- Jay Haas: 1976, 1996
- Sandy Lyle: 1997, 1998
- David Toms: 2001, 2003
- Tom Watson: 1982, 2018 (at age 68!)
Related: The Masters Trivia: Test Your Knowledge of Golf’s Most Iconic Tournament
Traditions and Customs
Family Caddies
The Masters Par 3 Contest is a cherished time when family members often take on the role of caddies for the players.
This lighthearted event promotes camaraderie and allows the golfers to enjoy some downtime with their loved ones before the stress of the main tournament begins.
Players have been known to share the course with their children, spouses, and other relatives who proudly wear the iconic white jumpsuits and assist in carrying golf clubs.
The Par 3 Contest includes not only that years Masters participants, but also many previous Masters champions who have long since stopped playing the main event.
This is one aspect of the event that makes it extra special for those participating and those watching.
The true legends of the game can be seen playing, laughing, and thoroughly enjoying themselves.
Related: Swingin’ Sixties: The Most Iconic Golfers Who Defined the Golden Era of Golf
Course Layout
The Masters Par 3 Contest is held on the Par 3 Course at Augusta National, which was designed by George W. Cobb and opened in 1958.
This picturesque course stretches over 1,060 yards and boasts a stunning setting with unique challenges.
One of the defining characteristics of the Par 3 Course is its incorporation of water hazards.
Several holes are designed around water elements, which often come into play and add an extra element of excitement.
Best Moments In Par 3 History
The Par 3 Jinx
One interesting aspect of the Masters Par 3 Contest is the so-called “jinx” that has become a prominent part of its history.
The jinx?
No player who has won the Par 3 Contest has gone on to win the Masters in the same year.
This fact is well-known amongst the golfing community and has even prompted some contenders to take the contest less seriously to avoid the dreaded jinx.
The closest any player has come to breaking this curse was Ray Floyd in 1990 when he lost in a sudden-death playoff after winning the Par 3 Contest.
Will 2023 be the year the curse is broken?