The Masters at Augusta National rings in the REAL beginning of the 2010 Golf Season

If it is true that the Masters Tournament doesn't really begin until the back-nine on Sunday, then it must also be true that the real golf season doesn't begin until the Par-3 Tournament at Augusta on Wednesday. It was a pleasant surprise to flip on the television and find the annual short-course event televised. The massive crowds lining Augusta's Par-3 Course, applauding all the great shots and laughing aloud with the players and their families at the not-so-great shots has to excite the most jaded fan.

The day was not for grinding out a tough par. The day was full of playfulness and thankfulness. This day was for autographs from living Legends and future Legends. a day where the crowd can award a mulligan to the King. It is a day that can turn back time to allow the fans to recall Palmer, Nicklaus and Player in their prime. The adoring fans still held their breath on #9 when Palmer's birdie putt seemed to roll forever before finding the hole some 50 feet away. The fist pump that followed was more reminiscent of the King in his prime than the 80-year-old Icon he is today.

The absense of Tiger Woods is no surprise. Tiger does not participate in the Par-3 Tournament. What a shame, especially given Tiger's current image troubles. He missed a good time but he was not missed.

The table is now officially set for the 2010 Masters Tournament. At 7:40 am EDT, The King and the Golden Bear, Palmer and Nicklaus will knock the ceremonial drives and the greatest golf tournament in the world will begin.