Masters Par 3 Contest Brings Generations Together

The annual Par 3 event at Augusta National transcends golf, uniting young and old in a celebration of family and tradition.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:03am

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A cubist-style painting depicting the Masters Par 3 Contest, with overlapping geometric shapes and planes representing the various elements of the event, including golfers, families, and the iconic Augusta National landscape.The Masters Par 3 Contest, a celebration of golf's power to unite generations and create lasting memories at Augusta National.Augusta Today

The Masters Par 3 Contest is a beloved tradition that showcases the intergenerational appeal of golf. This year's event featured a mix of seasoned veterans like three-time champion Gary Player and eager newcomers like nine-year-old Frankie Fleetwood, son of pro golfer Tommy Fleetwood. The contest is about more than just winning - it's a chance for players to relax with their loved ones and enjoy the game in a festive, relaxed setting.

Why it matters

The Par 3 Contest highlights golf's unique ability to bring people together across generations. It's a microcosm of the broader Masters experience, where the chaos and cordiality of the main event coexist. The event also underscores the tournament's ongoing challenge to balance respecting tradition and innovating to remain relevant for future generations.

The details

In this year's Par 3 Contest, golfing legend Gary Player exuded youthful energy, high-kicking around the course and celebrating with young fans. Meanwhile, nine-year-old Frankie Fleetwood focused intently on clearing the water and hitting the ninth green, embodying the spirit of determination and ambition. The event featured a festive atmosphere, with celebrity caddies like Kevin Hart and former NFL star Jason Kelce adding to the fun.

  • The Masters Par 3 Contest takes place annually during Masters week at Augusta National Golf Club.
  • This year's event was held on April 10, 2026.

The players

Gary Player

A three-time Masters champion and golfing legend who still participated in the Par 3 Contest with youthful energy.

Frankie Fleetwood

The nine-year-old son of pro golfer Tommy Fleetwood, who focused intently on his play in the Par 3 Contest.

Rory McIlroy

The defending Masters champion, who noted that the Par 3 Contest allows golfers to switch off and enjoy the game with their loved ones.

Aaron Rai

The golfer who topped the leaderboard in the Par 3 Contest, emphasizing that the event is about more than just winning.

Jason Day

A father of five who humorously described the Par 3 Contest as being like a circus.

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What they’re saying

“The Masters week heightens the senses, and the Par 3 Contest is a glamorous version of pitch and putt, allowing golfers to switch off and enjoy the game with their loved ones.”

— Rory McIlroy, Defending Masters Champion

“It's a lot of fun.”

— Wyndham Clark, PGA Tour Golfer

“The occasion is like a circus.”

— Jason Day, Father of Five

What’s next

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley is expected to continue discussions on balancing tradition and innovation at the Masters, with the Par 3 Contest serving as a prime example of the tournament's ability to bring people together.

The takeaway

The Masters Par 3 Contest is a testament to golf's timeless appeal and its power to unite people across generations. The event's unique blend of family fun and competitive spirit highlights the sport's ability to create lasting memories and foster a sense of community.