Aaron Rai Wins Par 3 Contest; Fleetwood Sparks Headlines

Aaron Rai captured the Masters Par 3 Contest at Augusta National on Wednesday, delivering a feel‑good victory at the family-friendly exhibition that precedes the major. The relaxed event, played the day before the tournament proper, again mixed competitive play with light-hearted moments and plenty of fanfare.

Frankie Fleetwood was once more a focal point, generating social‑media buzz with a memorable moment during the short‑course contest. The Par 3 tradition routinely features players accompanied by family members, celebrities and club professionals, and it often produces viral highlights as much as golf shots.

Rory McIlroy begins his defence of the green jacket on Thursday as the first major of the year gets under way. Live coverage from Augusta National will run through the day, with the opening round broadcast live from 2pm on Thursday on Sky Sports Golf.

Wednesday’s Par 3 Contest remains a cherished Augusta ritual, and the clubhouse atmosphere after Rai’s win and Fleetwood’s headline‑grabbing moment set a buoyant tone for the week ahead. (Wednesday 8 April 2026)