Augusta National’s Par 3 Contest is the best family day in golf, period! While the Masters may be all about pressure-packed putts and career-defining moments, Wednesday’s Par 3 Contest delivers something far more precious—unforgettable family memories against the backdrop of golf’s most beautiful setting.
The 2025 edition was packed with heartwarming scenes as pros traded their game faces for dad duties, and the kids stole the show in those adorable white caddie jumpsuits. Sure, Nicolas Echavarria took home the crystal bowl after winning a playoff against J.J. Spaun, but let’s be honest—nobody remembers who wins the Par 3 Contest that much. We remember those magical family moments that remind us why we love this sport.
So while you were busy tracking Bubba’s near-ace or debating whether the “Par 3 curse” will strike again (no Par 3 winner has ever won the Masters that same year), here are five absolutely heartwarming moments you might have missed.
1. Sammy Spieth’s majestic drive outshines dad’s playing partners
Three-year-old Sammy Spieth, Jordan Spieth‘s son, stole the show with a cross-handed grip drive that traveled 30 yards straight down the fairway on the second hole. His shot remarkably outperformed dad’s playing partners Justin Thomas and Max Homa, who both found the bunker with their wedge shots.
Let it rip, Sammy Spieth. #themasters pic.twitter.com/oqTqIp2uSC
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 9, 2025
Spieth skipped his own shot, busy managing his caddie team of Sammy, one-year-old Sophie, and wife Annie (expecting their third child in July). When the announcer called “Spieth on the tee,” young Sammy stepped up confidently and let it rip to thunderous applause. Jordan’s beaming smile confirmed that some moments transcend tournament preparation.
2. Poppy McIlroy’s one-handed putting masterclass
Four-year-old Poppy McIlroy, Rory McIlroy‘s daughter, delivered the Par 3 Contest’s signature moment with a stunning display of putting prowess on the ninth green. After watching Iris Lowry sink a ten-footer, Poppy casually rolled in a majestic downhill putt, one-handed, sending the gallery into a frenzy.
The massive crowd reaction overwhelmed young Poppy, who burst into tears and sought comfort in her father’s arms. McIlroy consoled her with the perfect dad line: “Shall we get you an ice cream… and then watch your highlights?” The moment created core memories that will undoubtedly feature in family highlights for decades to come.
3. Iris Lowry’s clutch birdie that inspired Poppy
Shane Lowry’s daughter, Iris, displayed genetic putting talent when she drained a smooth 10-footer for birdie just before Poppy’s famous putt. Her focused expression during setup revealed serious determination beyond mere playtime at Augusta.
What it’s all about @TheMasters pic.twitter.com/AKUf6OzvtE
— Shane Lowry (@ShaneLowryGolf) April 9, 2025
Lowry erupted with a celebration rivaling his Open Championship victory at Royal Portrush when the ball disappeared into the cup. He swept Iris into his arms with a triumphant roar as Augusta’s patrons applauded enthusiastically. This friendly competition between golf’s youngest generation sparked Poppy’s subsequent effort, creating magical rivalries that make the Par 3 Contest so special.
4. Keegan Bradley’s ace family celebration
U.S. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley sparked the day’s most joyful celebration when his tee shot on the 140-yard sixth hole caught the perfect ridge and trickled into the cup. Bradley immediately hoisted each young son skyward in pure elation, creating an unforgettable family moment.
Four-year-old Cooper Bradley sprinted to the hole upon reaching the green, peered inside wide-eyed, and clapped excitedly before retrieving the ball with a triumphant gesture. Bradley later described it as “up there with my favorite moments of my golf career, maybe even my life. I’ll never forget that ever.” This statement from a major champion and Ryder Cup hero perfectly captures the Par 3 Contest’s true significance.
5. Scottie Scheffler’s one-armed birdie putt while cradling baby Bennett
Scottie Scheffler demonstrated remarkable multitasking by calmly rolling in a 3-foot birdie putt on the first hole while holding 11-month-old son Bennett in one arm. The defending champion balanced fatherhood and golf with equal precision, never breaking concentration despite his precious cargo.
Wife Meredith caddied for Scheffler throughout the afternoon, completing the family portrait. Bennett, born after last year’s Masters victory, experienced Augusta National alongside his champion father, transforming Scheffler’s relationship with the course from individual competitor to proud parent sharing golf’s most hallowed ground with his son.
The 2025 Masters Par 3 Contest reminds us why this Wednesday tradition has become such a beloved part of tournament week. Yes, the Masters proper will bring us heart-stopping moments and career-defining achievements, but these wholesome family scenes touch us in a different, perhaps even more meaningful, way.
From Sammy Spieth’s perfect drive to Poppy’s tearful putting triumph, these moments showcase golf’s unique ability to connect generations. What was your favorite Par 3 Contest moment this year? Let us know in the comments below!
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