Aaron Rai won the Par 3 Contest held Wednesday with a score of six-under-par 21. Four holes-in-one were recorded: Justin Thomas (No. 2), Tommy Fleetwood (No. 4), Wyndham Clark (No. 7) and Keegan Bradley (No. 8). Since the inception of the Par 3 Contest in 1960, 119 total holes-in-one have been made.
The tradition, charm, and lighthearted spirit of the Masters Par 3 Contest once again set the tone for tournament week at Augusta National Golf Club, where fans were treated to an afternoon that blended golf, family, and unforgettable moments.
Held on the eve of the Masters, the Par 3 Contest remains one of the most beloved traditions in the game. The short course, nestled within Augusta National’s pristine landscape, offers a relaxed contrast to the intensity that defines the tournament itself. Players swap competitive focus for smiles, inviting family members, children, and special guests to join them inside the ropes.
The 2026 edition delivered exactly what patrons have come to expect—joy, laughter, and a few surprising highlights. From junior caddies taking swings of their own to pros pausing for photos and autographs, the event reminded everyone that even at the highest level, golf can still be playful.
One of the most talked-about moments came when Bryson DeChambeau arrived with an unexpected caddie—comedian Kevin Hart. The pairing drew crowds and constant laughter, as Hart brought his signature humor to the fairways, engaging with fans and adding a dose of entertainment to an already lively atmosphere. While DeChambeau focused on his shots, Hart kept things loose, proving that the Par 3 Contest is as much about personality as it is about performance.
As always, the presence of family added a heartfelt dimension. Children of players lined up putts, carried bags, and celebrated shots with pure excitement. These moments, often shared widely across social media, continue to define the event’s enduring appeal.
Despite its festive tone, the Par 3 Contest still showcased remarkable skill. Players demonstrated precision on the short course, with several near-aces thrilling the galleries. Each year, the possibility of a hole-in-one brings roars from patrons, and 2026 was no different, as the crowd reacted to shots that came within inches of dropping.
Yet, for all its highlights, the Par 3 Contest carries a curious bit of Masters lore—no player who has won the contest has ever gone on to win the Masters in the same year. As a result, some competitors embrace the fun while quietly avoiding the winner’s circle, preferring to save their best for the days ahead.
More than anything, the Par 3 Contest serves as a reminder of golf’s human side. It is a moment where legends, rising stars, and families come together, offering fans a glimpse of the personalities behind the competition.
As the sun set over Augusta National, the laughter and applause faded into anticipation. The serious business of the Masters still lay ahead, but for one afternoon, the game belonged to joy, tradition
Trophies are awarded to the winner and to the contestants who place their tee shot nearest the flagstick on each of the nine holes.
| Hole No. | Player | Distance From Flagstick |
| 1 | O’Meara | 44 inches |
| 2 | Thomas | Hole-in-one |
| 3 | Spaun | 7 inches |
| 4 | Fleetwood | Hole-in-one |
| 5 | D. Johnson | 26 inches |
| 6 | Burns | 3 inches |
| 7 | Clark | Hole-in-one |
| 8 | Bradley | Hole-in-one |
| 9 | O’Meara | 20 inches |
