The Masters Par 3 contest is an annual highlight that precedes the prestigious Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, marking a unique blend of family involvement and professional golf. This cherished event, which takes place on the Wednesday before the tournament, is renowned for allowing golfers to have family members caddy and even participate in the contest itself.
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The origins of the Par 3 contest date back to 1960 when it was first won by the legendary Sam Snead. The tradition has continued to thrive, becoming a staple of the Masters experience. Interestingly, despite numerous champions from the Par 3 event, none have ever gone on to win the main tournament in the same year—a statistic that only adds to the contest’s unique character. After gaining television exposure for the first time in 2008, the contest has captivated audiences, both on-site and through broadcasts.
Among the standout moments in recent years, the 2025 edition of the contest was particularly memorable thanks to Rory McIlroy and his daughter Poppy. Poppy captured the attention of spectators and viewers alike when she successfully made an impressive putt. The pride on McIlroy’s face was undeniable as he celebrated with his daughter in front of cheering fans. This heartwarming display showcased the event’s character—creating beautiful memories as families come together around the sport.
In the spirit of camaraderie, the contest has allowed players’ children to engage with the game, exemplifying their fathers’ joy in the sport. Tommy Fleetwood’s son Franklin has had his fair share of amusing moments, particularly when he made headlines in 2024 with a cheeky remark about his golf performance. Fleetwood and Franklin shared a heartwarming handshake at the ninth green, and a year later, Franklin’s honesty about his golf endeavours brought smiles to viewers.
Kevin Kisner added to the entertainment in 2023 when his son, Steven, mimicked his father’s frustration after a missed hole-in-one opportunity. Steven’s impersonation—throwing his plastic golf club on the ground in exasperation—had commentators and audiences chuckling at the comedic resemblance to his father’s temperament.
The event also often highlights unexpected antics from the children, as demonstrated by Jordan Spieth’s daughter Sophie in 2025. Caught attempting to eat grass during the contest, her father’s playful intervention turned the moment into yet another memorable snippet of family fun that resonates with the event’s overarching theme of joy and togetherness.
Further endearing moments emerged with Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns, who have long been friends on the professional circuit. Their sons, Bear and Bennett, who are close in age, were photographed enjoying a playful moment with golf balls during the 2025 contest. Capturing life’s simple joys, Burns expressed how these moments transform the routine of adult lives into something filled with laughter and family interaction.
Another hilarious instance came from Harold Varner III’s son Liam, who, perhaps a bit too enthusiastically, attempted to grab a live golf ball during the 2023 contest. The playful chaos was swiftly curtailed by his father, reflecting the balance between competitive spirit and nurturing familial love that characterises the Masters Par 3 contest.
Brooks Koepka also had his share of shining moments with his son, Crew, who made his Par 3 contest debut in 2024. Their bond was highlighted when Koepka celebrated a hole-in-one in 2025, hoisting Crew into the air in pure joy. The emotional weight of such moments extends beyond just sport; they create lasting memories for families involved.
The Masters Par 3 contest continues to be more than just a precursor to the main event. It encapsulates the essence of golf—a sport where family values and community shine through. Sweet interactions and candid moments leave a lasting impression on both players and spectators, reminding everyone that amid the competitive spirit, it is the bond between families that colours the tournament experience.
As golf continues to evolve, the Masters Par 3 contest will undoubtedly endure, delighting fans and bringing families together on the greens of Augusta National for generations to come.