The Masters is known for its immense pressure. But for Jason Day, a pre-tournament tradition at Augusta offers a welcome escape, and a chance to spend some quality time with family.

The Par 3 Contest creates space for players, and for World No. 41, "It's good. It's a good change because we don't get this in the majors, and obviously, the players as well."

"Typically, everyone is kind of making their last-minute adjustments on a Wednesday. And we're out here with our families enjoying it, which is great," Jason Day said during the press conference on Wednesday.

The Par 3 Contest takes place every Wednesday before the Masters Tournament begins, offering a different setting at Augusta National Golf Club. It was introduced by chairman Clifford Roberts as a separate pre-tournament event, giving players a break from the competitive build-up.

Children, spouses, and friends often step in as caddies, wearing the traditional white jumpsuits and sometimes taking a shot themselves, making it a unique family-friendly event.

“I've signed up with Bubba for many, many years playing the par-3. So we've got a really good friendship. We used to obviously bus together when he was on the Tour. Yeah, no. I mean, all the patrons come out and enjoy themselves, and it's just a fun event,” added the 13-time PGA Tour winner.

During the 2026 Masters Par 3 Contest, Jason Day and Bubba Watson were grouped alongside amateur Brandon Holtz, sharing the course ahead of the main event. Both players posted steady scores.

Meanwhile, Aaron Rai closed the contest at six under par to secure the win on the day, finishing one shot ahead of Jacob Bridgeman.

Aaron Rai’s Win and Sam Snead’s View of the Masters Par 3 Contest

Sam Snead, who won the first edition in 1960, noted that it helps players settle in by giving them a chance to hit greens and make putts before the main rounds begin.

Past champions also return for the event, allowing different generations to share the course.

No player who has won the Par 3 Contest has gone on to win the Masters in the same year. Because of this, some players choose not to complete their round, often letting a family member take a shot instead.

Following this year’s result, Aaron Rai will attempt to become the first to win both events in the same week. Meanwhile, the 2011 runner-up Jason Day will look to improve on his T8 finish in 2025.

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Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi