Masters Par 3 Contest: Elite Golfers Who Must Use Event to Build Momentum

For most players, the Masters Par 3 Contest represents a chance to enjoy a laid-back event the day before a major tournament. That's not true for everybody, however. Certain golfers will be looking to use it to build some momentum heading into the opening round.

Let's take a look at three stars who would like to have a strong showing on Wednesday that they hope to parlay into a green jacket on Sunday.

Rory McIlroy

McIlroy appeared well on his way to his first Masters title last year before an epic final-round meltdown that cost him the title. The Par 3 Contest gives him an opportunity to get that sour taste out of his mouth before teeing it up for real.

A terrific battle continues to shape up between McIlroy and a resurgent Tiger Woods, so the Northern Ireland sensation will be hoping to enter the tournament on a roll because every stroke will make a big difference once the weekend arrives.

He hasn't finished outside of the top five in any official event this season, giving him the confidence to succeed at Augusta. A good showing on Wednesday will provide another boost.

Lee Westwood

Westwood is one of the best players on the PGA Tour without a major championship under his belt. He's always had enough talent to get the job done, but has never been able to string four solid rounds together when it mattered most.

He's coming off a disappointing 73 in the fourth round at the Shell Houston Open, leaving room for improvement in the Par 3 Contest. Less pressure than previous years should help, but good play off the tee on Wednesday would do wonders.

Conquering Augusta comes down to precision. If he can find a rhythm on the short course, he should have no trouble carrying it over to Round 1 and beyond.

Steve Stricker

Another elite player without a major, Stricker has a game that matches the Par 3 Contest perfectly. He's always one of the strongest putters on tour, even though he's had a few rough patches this season, and doesn't have to worry about length off the tee.

He ranks third in greens in regulation and fourth in birdies this season. Those numbers would suggest he's a strong Masters contender, but having a good day on the greens today would give him the belief that he can hang with Woods, McIlroy and the rest.

When it comes to Stricker, the mental approach is often more important than the physical one since he can't keep up with the big hitters anyway.