Masters Par 3 Contest Brings 4 Generations to Augusta

While most sports struggle to capture attention across age groups, golf proved it still knows how to bring generations together at Augusta National's beloved Par 3 Contest.

Three-time Masters champion Gary Player turned heads on Wednesday, high-kicking around the course at nearly 91 years old. Meanwhile, two-week-old Remy Scheffler rode in a baby carrier as his dad, world number one Scottie, prepared for the tournament.

The Par 3 Contest has become the Masters' most wholesome tradition, where the world's best golfers switch off before the pressure-packed tournament begins. Instead of stressing over championship shots, they beam with joy playing pitch and putt alongside their families dressed in miniature Augusta caddie suits.

Nine-year-old Frankie Fleetwood became this year's breakout star. The youngster made it his personal mission to clear the water on the ninth hole after falling short last year.

"When I go on to the range I just think about this every single day," Frankie told television cameras, showing the same determination that makes his father Tommy one of golf's top players. His first attempt went wide right, and despite the crowd singing for another chance, his second still ended in the water.

England's Aaron Rai won the contest with help from his wife Gaurika, a professional golfer herself, who read his putts. "A lot of people just enjoy this tournament for what it means for spending time with the family," Rai said after finishing six under par.

Four golfers thrilled the crowds with holes-in-one, including Keegan Bradley becoming the first player in the event's 66-year history to land aces in consecutive years. Tommy Fleetwood also got one, giving the galleries plenty to cheer about.

Sunny's Take

In a world where screens increasingly separate families, watching Gary Player lift young fans into his arms after sinking putts created a beautiful contrast with Frankie Fleetwood's fierce focus. Five-time father Jason Day jokingly called it "a circus" watching toddlers slide down bunkers and babies crawl across greens, but the joy was undeniable.

Rory McIlroy summed it up perfectly when discussing the age span from Player to baby Remy. "I just think about the time span. That's why our game is so incredible," the defending champion said.

Augusta chairman Fred Ridley spoke earlier about balancing "respecting tradition and innovating" as the Masters ensures golf remains relevant for future generations. The Par 3 Contest proves the tournament is succeeding, creating memories that span from great-grandparents to newborns in a single afternoon.