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How to Watch the Masters Par 3 Contest

ByMichael Reeves

← Major Golf Events & Tournaments | The Four Majors


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Quick Answer

  • The Masters Par 3 Contest typically airs on the Wednesday before the main tournament kicks off.
  • Your best bets for live viewing are ESPN, Masters.com, and the ESPN app.
  • Always double-check the official schedule for the exact start time in your neck of the woods.

Who This Is For

  • Golf fanatics eager to catch a unique, laid-back event that builds hype for the Masters.
  • Anyone keen to see players and their families in a more relaxed atmosphere, a cool tradition before the serious golf begins.

What to Check First: Par 3 Contest Viewing

  • The Date and Time: This is critical. Don’t just assume it’s the Wednesday before. Verify the official Masters schedule for the current year.
  • Your ESPN Access: Confirm your ESPN subscription is active and you can log in. This is usually the primary broadcast channel.
  • Streaming Platforms: Make sure Masters.com and the ESPN app are ready to go on your devices. Check if you need a specific subscription tier.
  • Your Local Time Zone: Seriously, convert the broadcast time to your local zone. A 1 PM Eastern start means something different if you’re on the West Coast.

Step-by-Step Plan: How to Watch the Masters Par 3 Contest

1. Action: Pinpoint the official broadcast date and time.

  • What to look for: The official Masters Tournament schedule, which is usually released well in advance. Also, check ESPN’s programming guide.
  • Mistake: Assuming the contest always takes place on the same day and time each year. Schedules can shift slightly, and you don’t want to miss it because you were off by a few hours.

2. Action: Access live coverage via ESPN.

  • What to look for: The live broadcast on the ESPN channel if you have cable, or the ESPN+ streaming service.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to log in with your cable provider credentials or realizing your ESPN+ subscription has lapsed. I once spent ten minutes scrambling to log in while the first tee shot was already in the air. Not ideal.

3. Action: Navigate to Masters.com for streaming.

  • What to look for: A dedicated live video stream section for the Par 3 Contest. It’s usually clearly marked.
  • Mistake: Searching for the contest on the main Masters tournament coverage page before it officially begins. The Par 3 Contest often has its own streaming portal.

4. Action: Utilize the ESPN App.

  • What to look for: The live stream option within the ESPN app. This is great for watching on the go or on a tablet.
  • Mistake: Not having the app downloaded and updated on your smartphone or tablet, or not being logged into your account.

5. Action: Verify local broadcast times.

  • What to look for: Confirmation of the start time specifically for your region or time zone.
  • Mistake: Relying on a general start time without checking your local listings, which can lead to confusion or tuning in too early or too late.

How to Watch the Par 3 Contest: Understanding the Tradition

The Masters Par 3 Contest is more than just a warm-up; it’s a beloved tradition that offers a unique glimpse into the Masters experience. It’s held annually on the Wednesday before the first round of the Masters Tournament, adding a festive and relaxed atmosphere to Augusta National. This event allows players to unwind, often with their families or close friends serving as caddies, creating memorable moments and showcasing a different side of the competitors before the intense pressure of the championship begins. For golf enthusiasts, understanding exactly how to watch this special event ensures you don’t miss out on the fun, the camaraderie, and the occasional hole-in-one that makes it so popular.

Common Mistakes When Watching the Par 3 Contest

  • Mistake: Failing to check the current year’s schedule.
  • Why it matters: The date and time can shift slightly year to year, or you might simply forget. Missing this unique event because you assumed the timing was the same as last year is a real bummer.
  • Fix: Always consult the official Masters Tournament website or reliable sports news outlets for the confirmed schedule for the specific year you plan to watch.
  • Mistake: Looking for the contest on the main Masters tournament channel.
  • Why it matters: The Par 3 Contest is often broadcast on a separate channel or streaming feed than the main tournament coverage. You might be searching in the wrong place entirely.
  • Fix: Specifically search for “Masters Par 3 Contest” in your TV guide or streaming service’s lineup. It’s usually clearly labeled.
  • Mistake: Underestimating time zone differences.
  • Why it matters: A 1:00 PM Eastern start time is significantly different from a 1:00 PM Pacific time. If you’re not in the Eastern Time Zone, you need to do the math.
  • Fix: Always convert the official start time to your local time zone. A quick online search or checking your phone’s clock settings can easily sort this out.
  • Mistake: Assuming free access to all content.
  • Why it matters: While some Masters content might be publicly available, live coverage of the Par 3 Contest typically requires a subscription to ESPN or ESPN+.
  • Fix: Verify your subscription status for ESPN+ or ensure your cable login is active and compatible with the ESPN app or website before the contest begins.
  • Mistake: Waiting until the last minute to test your streaming setup.
  • Why it matters: Technical glitches happen. Your login might be outdated, your internet connection might be spotty, or your streaming device might need an update. Discovering this when the contest is live is frustrating.
  • Fix: Test your streaming access and log in a day or two before the event. Ensure your devices are updated and your internet is stable. This avoids last-minute panic.
  • Mistake: Missing out on player interactions and family moments.
  • Why it matters: A huge part of the Par 3 Contest’s charm is seeing the players in a relaxed state, often with their children or spouses caddying. This offers a humanizing element often missed during the main tournament.
  • Fix: Pay attention to the broadcast’s commentary and on-screen graphics, as they often highlight these family interactions and lighthearted moments. Masters.com coverage is usually good for capturing these.

FAQ

  • When is the Masters Par 3 Contest usually held?

It’s traditionally held on the Wednesday immediately preceding the start of the Masters Tournament. This provides a relaxed prelude to the main event.

  • What channel is the Par 3 Contest on?

You can typically watch the live broadcast of the Masters Par 3 Contest on ESPN. Check your local listings for exact channel information.

  • Can I stream the Par 3 Contest online?

Yes, absolutely. Live streaming is usually available on Masters.com and through the ESPN app, often requiring an ESPN+ subscription or a cable login.

  • Is the Par 3 Contest free to watch?

Live coverage of the Par 3 Contest generally requires a subscription. This could be through ESPN+ or by logging into your cable provider account on the ESPN app or website.

  • Does the Par 3 Contest count towards the main tournament?

No, it is a separate, informal event. It’s more about tradition and fun than competitive scoring for the Masters championship itself. Players often have family members caddy for them, adding to the unique atmosphere.

  • What is the typical atmosphere like during the Par 3 Contest?

The atmosphere is significantly more relaxed and festive compared to the main tournament. Players are often seen joking, interacting with the crowd, and enjoying a less intense day on the course. It’s a great way to see their personalities shine.

  • Are there any special betting opportunities for the Par 3 Contest?

While some sportsbooks might offer odds on the Par 3 Contest, it’s generally not considered a major betting event. The focus is more on the tradition and the players’ enjoyment rather than serious competition.

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