The Masters tournament at Augusta is following the example of the Open Championship by giving youngsters free admittance when accompanied by an adult.

Starting next April children aged eight to 16 will be allowed in provided they are with someone with a ticket into Augusta National.

"We want to inspire the next generation of golfers now," said club chairman Billy Payne. "We're serious about exposing youngsters to golf and the Masters."

In a further effort to reach a broader audience, Payne also announced that the Masters will allow television coverage of the Wednesday par-three contest.

"It 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," he commented.

The par three was first held in 1960 and is played over a nine-hole, par 27 1,060 yard course close to the 10th hole of the championship lay-out.

Since the event's inception there have been 63 holes in one, including five in 2002.

"The par-three contest is a lot of fun, one of the real highlights of every year," said two-time Masters winner Phil Mickelson. "It's been a wonderful experience to have my daughters caddie the last two years.

"It's special because it's a rare opportunity for both players and patrons to enjoy the game as families."