The Par 3 Contest: The Masters Family Edition
As one of the four big championships in men’s professional golf, the Masters Tournament can definitely send players’ nerves soaring in the days leading up to the event! But how do they deal with those pesky pre-event jitters? While there are a bunch of ways, one of the most heartwarming traditions is the annual Par 3 Contest. Let us introduce you to the most adorable event and share some of the cutest moments from recent years!
Jordan Spieth and son Sammy take a break in the shade during the Par 3 Contest in 2023 (Getty)
Who plays?
The beauty of the Par 3 Contest is the players’ families get to join them for an afternoon on the beautiful Augusta National Golf Course. The stylish golf significant others, cute kids, and more family members can be spotted enjoying serving as caddies for the players or occasionally helping with a swing of their own. Both players in the current tournament and non-competing past champions can join the competition (or just stroll around the course).
Scottie Scheffler and his wife Meredith enjoying their afternoon on the course together (Getty)
When Does it Occur?
This beloved tradition happens on the Wednesday of tournament week, just a day before the excitement begins! It's a special time for players to unwind and be reminded of the love and joy their families bring, no matter how they perform. This year's contest is set for April 9th at noon, and we can't wait to watch!
Rickie Fowler holding his daughter Maya’s hand as they walk through the course (PGA Tour)
What is the Layout?
The contest features nine holes (ranging from 90-155 yards) in a small section of the Augusta National grounds. If you know your Augusta National Golf Course geography, it’s played over DeSoto Springs Pond and Ike’s Pond in the northeast corner. Because the grounds and the weather are typically pristine and inviting, many of the participants and their families won’t actually compete but instead spend time as a family walking around and letting everyone, toddlers included, take a shot at the hole.
Kevin Kisner giving his son George a tender forehead kiss (USA TODAY Sports)
How do you Win?
The winner of the Par 3 Contest is the player with the best score after completing all nine holes. However, we believe that everyone who participates is a winner since they enjoy a great time doing what they love with their loved ones. It's also interesting to note that no winner of the Par 3 Contest has ever gone on to win the Masters in the same year. While we won't call it a curse, it does seem more than coincidental.
The Finau girls (Alayna, Neenee, Sienna-Vee) relax on the beautiful course in 2023 (Getty)
Previous Adorable Par 3 Contest Moments
Playtime on the Course
Last year, Maya Fowler and Sammy Spieth were spotted running around on the grass together ahead of their parents and just being little kids. The cuteness level is off the charts.
Golfer in the Making
Speaking of Sammy Spieth, he also got in on the action in 2023, getting help from his dad, Jordan, on a putt. The then 1-year-old could barely walk, but he sure was rocking his tiny jumpsuit.
Significant Others for the Win
It’s not just the kids who can steal the show during the Par 3 contest. Former college golfer and Golf Channel reporter Angela Garcia, married to Sergio Garcia, gets to show off her talent and play some golf during the competition. This heartwarming moment from 2022 captures Angela celebrating a successful putt while her husband proudly looks on.
Angela Garcia soaks in the joy of playing in the Par 3 Contest alongside her husband, Sergio (USA TODAY Sports)
Finau Family Fun
The Finau family is one of our favorite sporty families, and the Par 3 contest is their time to shine. After introducing us to the squad in this 2023 interview, Tony shared, “I love to have my family here with me. It’s just so fun and so cool; it’s like the calm before the storm”.
Girl Dads Unite
Although they may be against each other on the course, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry are besties AND girl dads together. This precious moment from 2022 shows how the Par 3 Contest is a chance for sweet family time and an opportunity for the players to connect as the people (and dads, husbands, brothers, etc.) behind the competitors.
Rory McIlroy and daughter Poppy (left) chat with Shane Lowry and daughter Ivy (right) in 2022 (AP)