Tiger Woods will compete in Par-3 Contest for first time since 2004

Tiger Woods will play in the Masters Par 3 Contest on Wednesday for the first time in 11 years.

Woods’ friend and 1998 Masters champion Mark O’Meara told Golf Channel Tuesday that the four-time Masters winner will play on the short course for the first time since he played with Arnold Palmer in 2004.

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It’s expected Woods will play the course with his children Sam and Charlie alongside, perhaps caddying for him in what’s become a tradition in the pre-tournament contest. Woods will probably also have his children hit a few putts for him, making his score unofficial. That’s a good thing since no Par 3 Contest winner has ever gone on to win the Masters in the same week.

Woods explained his decision not to play in the annual contest in 2008, saying, “It’s changed over the years. It’s a little bit distracting to try to get ready for the tournament.”

However, Woods has been all smiles this week at Augusta National, rekindling old friendships — including one with O’Meara — and seemingly enjoying the experience. Perhaps this new, softer Tiger Woods is kind of guy who will feel comfortable enough to contend for a fifth Masters title.