The Masters annual Par 3 Contest provided family-friendly entertainment this week.
Tommy Fleetwood’s son Frankie proved to be one of the stars of the show on Wednesday.
The presence of two people at the opposite ends of human lifespan showed the event is not just providing wholesome, family-friendly entertainment.
It also showed how golf has the capacity to bring generations together like few others.
Family Fun at Augusta
Remy Scheffler, the new-born son of Scottie Scheffler, was ferried around the course by his mother Meredith in a baby carrier.
Gary Player, who turns 91 later this year, was still high-kicking his way around Augusta.
He lapped up another chance to play in front of the patrons.
The sight of Player holing birdie putts, celebrating by lifting one young fan into his arms, contrasted superbly with nine-year-old Frankie Fleetwood’s focus and determination to clear the water and hit the ninth green.
According to Rory McIlroy, there are few weeks in the season which heighten the senses more than the Masters.
Fleetwood’s Son Takes the Spotlight
The shortform spectacle demonstrated once again that the annual pilgrimage to Augusta National is not all about stressing over fairway lies and pin positions.
It’s about seeing the stars switch off on the eve of what could be the biggest week of their careers, beaming from ear to ear as they play a glamorous version of pitch and putt, with partners and children by their side dressed in Augusta caddie boiler suits.
Rai Wins Par 3 Contest
England’s Aaron Rai said it felt “phenomenal” to top the leaderboard.
Nobody has ever won the event and gone on to claim the main prize at the weekend.
“I’m not sure if it’s a good omen or not,” smiled Rai, who credited his wife Gaurika for helping him win by reading his putts.
“A lot of people just enjoy this tournament for what it means for spending time with the family.”
Rai won the Par 3 Contest with a six-under-par score of 21.
Last year, McIlroy’s daughter Poppy stole the show by knocking in a 30-foot putt.
This year, it was Tommy Fleetwood’s son Frankie who took the spotlight.
The youngster had the galleries chanting his name as he tried to fulfil a vow made 12 months ago – to clear the water with his tee shot on the final ninth hole.
A year older, bigger and stronger – and armed with a bespoke club – he
For the world’s leading golfers, there are few weeks in the season which heighten the senses more than the Masters.