A Beloved Masters Tradition Returns
The Masters Par 3 Contest returned this Wednesday, April 9, offering fans a much-loved warm-up before the main tournament begins. Held on the picturesque Par 3 Course at Augusta National Golf Club, the annual event brings together legendary past champions, current stars, and often their families in a relaxed, crowd-pleasing showcase.
This year’s edition didn’t disappoint—featuring hole-in-ones, adorable caddie cameos from players’ kids, and playful competitive energy.
What Time Did the 2025 Par 3 Contest Start?
Tee times for the 2025 Par 3 Contest began around 12 p.m. ET, with coverage airing throughout the afternoon. The entire event wrapped before sunset, staying true to tradition.
Though the contest is meant to be lighthearted, it still draws a competitive crowd and plenty of fanfare. For many players, it’s an opportunity to ease into the spotlight, test the greens, and enjoy the Augusta atmosphere before the pressure truly begins.
Notable Highlights and Moments
As always, the 2025 Par 3 Contest delivered on charm and excitement:
- Hole-in-Ones: A total of four aces were recorded, continuing the contest’s legacy of surprising drama.
- Family Caddies: Several players had their children and spouses act as caddies, a tradition that always delights the crowd. One toddler even took a swing of their own.
- Veteran Appearances: Legends like Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player made appearances, much to the crowd’s delight. Even though they weren’t competing seriously, their presence added to the event’s rich sense of history.
One of the emotional highlights included a touching moment when a first-time Masters participant handed his putter to his young son to finish out the hole—earning loud applause from fans around the green.
The Unwritten Curse
It’s a running joke—though taken surprisingly seriously by some—that no player who has ever won the Par 3 Contest has gone on to win the Masters in the same week. With that in mind, some top contenders strategically hold back, focusing instead on soaking up the moment with their families.
Even so, the leaderboard always grabs attention. This year’s winner carded an impressive 22 (-5), but whether that momentum carries into the main tournament remains to be seen.
How to Watch the Replay
If you missed the live broadcast, replays are typically available through golf coverage providers and sports streaming services. Many fans revisit the contest highlights just to relive the most entertaining shots and family moments leading into the Masters’ opening round.
Why the Par 3 Contest Matters
Beyond its charm, the Par 3 Contest offers fans a rare window into the human side of golf’s biggest stars. It’s a day where fun is prioritized over competition, where players lower their guard and celebrate their love of the game—and family.
For diehard golf fans, it’s also a strategic watch: how are players striking the ball? Who looks relaxed? Who’s dialed in? It’s a sneak peek into form and focus before the iconic green jacket chase begins
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