Masters Par 3 Tournament 2014

With the Master’s teeing off in Augusta tomorrow, that means the start of the Master Par 3 today, a semi-social contest on a Par 3 course on Augusta’s national grounds that has been played prior to the main tournament since 1960.

The scores of this content aren’t too much of a big deal, bringing a relaxed feel to the day, with some players not even keeping score. In fact, it may be better not to try and win, as no winner of this event has ever gone on to win the Masters in the same year. The superstitious amongst the players would be forgiven for taking it easy today and using it as a warm up, purposefully avoiding coming first.

But that’s not to say we won’t be entertained with some enjoyable golf in Augusta this afternoon. It’s a great chance to see some golfing legends relax with the club in their hands and enjoy their day, which often produces some thrilling shots. Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player are examples of those who have made a custom of playing this contest together, which is great viewing for those who remember watching these golfers in their prime.

Although Tiger Woods has dropped out of the Masters, and subsequently not the Par-3, there is plenty to see with today’s action. You might even see golfers using their celebrity pals or even their kids as caddies, with Rory McIlroy having announced that his tennis-star fiancé, Caroline Wozniacki, will carry the bag again for him this year.