Here's what you can watch on TV on Wednesday

For spectators eager to see some action at Augusta National, Wednesday is the day the 2024 Masters unofficially begins.

While the first round of the tournament begins on Thursday with honorary starters teeing off, this ceremonial start is preceded by the annual Masters Par 3 Competition on Wednesday.

The par-3 competition field includes Masters competitors and non-participating past champions, all of whom complete an entertaining round on Augusta National's par-3 course, often featuring wives, girlfriends, children and grandchildren – many of whom are recruited to also carry the bag. In short: it is a spectacle not to be missed. Below, learn everything you need to know about the annual Masters Par 3 competition, including how to watch it.

What is the Masters Par 3 Competition?

The first Masters Par 3 competition was held in 1960 – the brainchild of Augusta National Chairman Clifford Roberts. Since then, it has been held every year on the Wednesday before the tournament begins and has become one of the tournament's most popular traditions.

What is Augusta National's par-3 course?

Augusta National's Par-3 Course is a nine-hole course that first opened in 1958 and hosted the first par-3 competition two years later. The par-3 course's holes range from 70 to 155 yards in length and have a total length of 1,055 yards.

When does the 2024 Masters Par 3 Competition begin?

This year, the 2024 Masters Par 3 Competition begins on Wednesday, April 10 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Who can take part in the Masters Par 3 Contest?

Every current Masters competitor and past champion is invited to participate in the Masters Par 3 competition.

What is the curse of the Masters par 3 competition?

Interesting fact: The winner of the Masters Par 3 Contest has never won the Masters in the same week, leading some superstitious players to choose not to complete a hot round to avoid receiving an official result.

Who are the caddies in the Masters Par 3 Contest?

Participants in the Masters Par 3 Contest may select anyone to carry their bag for the Masters Par 3 Contest. Traditionally, the Masters Par 3 competition is a family affair, and the role of caddie is filled by wives, girlfriends, children, grandchildren and other relatives who are often called upon to make shots or putts for their players.

Where can I find a caddy uniform like the ones I see on TV?

Check out these awesome Augusta inspired caddy jumpsuits for kids and adults.

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What does the winner of the Masters Par 3 Contest receive?

The winner of the Masters Par 3 Contest will receive an engraved crystal bowl.

How might holes-in-ones have been recorded in the Masters Par 3 Contest?

Since 1960, a total of 107 hole-in-ones have been made in the Masters Par 3 Contest.

What is the record score in the Masters Par 3 Contest?

Jimmy Walker holds the current record, posting a nine-hole score of 19 in 2016.

How do I watch the Masters Par 3 competition?

The 2023 Masters Par 3 Contest will air on ESPN from 3 to 5 p.m. ET. You can also stream coverage on Masters.com and the Masters app beginning at 2 p.m. ET.

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Golf.com Publisher

As a four-year member of Columbia's premier class of female varsity golfers, Jessica can outscore anyone on the masthead with a birdie. She can also outdo them in the office, where she's primarily responsible for producing print and online features and overseeing major special projects like GOLF's first style issue, which debuted in February 2018. Her original interview series, “A “Round With,” debuted in November 2015 and appeared in both magazine and video form on GOLF.com.