Masters Par 3 Contest

What is the Par 3 Contest?
The Par 3 Contest has become a Wednesday tradition at the Masters and has become wildly popular with the fans. The contest takes place on The Par 3 course built in 1958 by architects George Cobb and Clifford Roberts. Tournament participants, non-competing past champions, and Honorary Invitees are invited to participate in the Contest. The nine-hole course is par 27, 1,060 yards and played over DeSoto Springs Pond and Ike's Pond.


Real Competition or Just Fun?
The Par 3 Tournament generally resembles a Romper Room more than a serious golf competition. Many of the participants let their children caddie for them and some even allow the youngsters to putt. Many players feel that it's the final "stress free" moment before the real competition begins on Thursday.

There's always a relaxed atmosphere surrounding the Par 3 Tournament. There's more player-to-fan interaction during Wednesday's competition making it a real fan favorite. The players often joke around with each other, take mulligans when a shot goes in the water, take pictures with fans and sign autographs. This is a must-see event.


Insider Tips to Get the Most Out of the Par 3 Competition

1. Bring a Chair. A golf chair is a must if you would like to reserve a good seat at the tournament or the par 3 contest. If you don't have one, you can get an official Masters golf chair at the Augusta Golf Shop for $29. Once you place your chair, that seat is yours for the rest of the day. You can roam the course as you wish and when you return, that seat is yours.

2. Get There Early. The par 3 competition starts at around 1:00 PM on Wednesday. If you would like a good seat close to the tee or green plan on getting there before noon. If you have a chair, get there as soon as they open the course especially if you plan on getting some autographs.

3. Bring a Camera! Camera's are not allowed during tournament days. In fact, if you are caught with one Thu-Sun, you will be removed from the tournament! Monday-Wednesday is a whole other story. The Par 3 Course is very photogenic and there are ample opportunities to get great shots of the players as they walk the course, play with their children, pose with fans and sign autographs. If this is your first time at the Masters, try to get a ticket during a practice round and take as many pictures as you can.

4. Getting Autographs. If you would like to get some autographs while out at the Masters your best bet is on Wednesday. Here are some tips and tricks to getting autographs at Augusta National.

Go to Wednesday's Par 3 Contest. While players will sign on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday's Par 3 Contest is your best chance at getting autographs.

Get an official Masters tee flag for $22 at the golf shop. This is an ideal piece of memorabilia for autographs and is easily framed.

Sit at the tee box. Players generally sign at the tee box while they are waiting for the next group to hit. You will have the best luck here. I was able to get about 35 signatures while sitting at the 6th tee box (near the 5th green).

Know your players! If you are not an avid golf enthusiast you may not recognize some of the players. Check the list of golfers participating in the Masters and study up! It is much easier to get their autograph if you know all of their names.

Keep track of who has signed and who hasn't. Use the player pairing sheet as a check list. It is also a good idea to use a blank sheet of paper as a "legend" so you know who singed where. After pro signs it, write it down on the "legend" in the same spot. A lot of the signatures are not very legible and after about 40 signatures, you may not remember who signed where unless you have been keeping track.


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How To Get Tickets
TickCo Premium Seating sells tickets to every day of the tournament including Wednesday's Par 3 Competition. Tickets for practice rounds and the Par 3 competition cost much less than tournament badges. For those on a budget, attending the event Mon-Wed is a great alternative to paying for regular tournament badges. Tickets for all days can be ordered online or over the phone at 800-279-4444.

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