Par-3 Televised! Kids Free! Second Cut...Still Around

Mark Lamport-Stokes on the latest great news out of Augusta:

Youngsters aged between eight and 16 will be given free admission to next year's U.S. Masters if accompanied by an accredited patron.

"We want to inspire the next generation of golfers," Augusta National Golf Club chairman Billy Payne said in a statement on Thursday. "We're serious about exposing youngsters to golf and the Masters."

Really, shouldn't this just be the case at all PGA Tour and LPGA events. What do you think?

This is the best news, though I suspect we'll see some criticism in the coming days:

Payne also said the popular par-three contest, traditionally held on the eve of the Masters, would be televised for the first time next year by ESPN to reach a wider, younger audience.

"These initiatives are important first steps and a great kickoff to our ongoing mission of growing the game," he said.

"The par-three contest is fun and exciting for the entire family. It's an event everyone enjoys and we think it will demonstrate to kids just how fun golf can be."

On that note, I have just completed some market research that says the 18-34 demo loves the old tight grass look of Augusta National and believes the Masters would be a lot more fun without all that rough and tree planting.

Oh well, maybe next year.