Getting to Sunday at the Masters Tournament has always been special to players and fans alike. Having the final day of the tournament fall on Easter makes it more so, especially for those who say their faith affects not just their lives but also their play.

Mark O'Meara celebrated after sinking a birdie putt on the 18th hole to win the 1998 Masters. (File/Staff)

"Because I'm a Christian and it's a day our savior, Jesus Christ, rose from the dead, it's a special day in the year," said Australian golfer Aaron Baddeley. "I enjoy the chance to play on Easter Sunday."

Last year, Baddeley won the Verizon Heritage on Easter. His victory came after he was the speaker at a morning service. He gave his testimony about being saved at age 12 and not living up to others' expectations, and later won with a 7-foot putt that he has said he knocked in for Jesus.

"Last year was extra special, too, I say, because it was on Easter Sunday," he said. "It was pretty awesome."

This year Baddeley doesn't have any speaking engagements. Thanks to a 4-over-par performance Saturday, an 11:15 tee time today will likely keep him from making any services. He said he doubts he'll end up wearing the green jacket.

Someone will, though.

Golf greats such as Arnold Palmer (1958) and Gary Player (1974) have won the Masters on Easter Sunday. In 2004, the last time the tournament was played during the Easter Holy Week, Phil Mickelson claimed the title.

Phil Mickelson won the 2004 Masters - his first win in a major - which was also on Easter. (File/Staff)

This year, the 15th time the Masters has fallen on Easter, marks a loaded day for Stewart Cink.

"Being a Christian, it's the most significant day of the year," he said. "In my family, too, the youngest turns 10. ... It's a big day: Masters Sunday, 10-year birthday and Easter. It's a great day."

Finishing 3-over par Saturday, for a total of 11-over, Cink said he might not make one of the many Easter services, but that doesn't mean he won't have his faith on the course.

"It's the main influence over my life," he said. "If nothing else, it helps me stay calm out there when I go through a lot of trials, a lot of testing and people losing their patience. I know I have a lot in my life that I've been blessed with, you know. Sometimes you have to look at those things when you have a rough time of it, and sometimes it does help you right the ship out there."

Baddeley shares the sentiment.

"It is my whole life," he said. "From playing golf, to my marriage, to who I am - everything I do, revolves around Jesus and what the Bible says and studying that and carrying my relationship every single day."

It even follows to the final of the Masters, he said:

"On Easter, I guess I always hope that someone who follows Jesus does well or wins so they can tell people about Jesus."

Reach Kamille Bostick at (706) 823-3223 or kamille.bostick@augustachronicle.com.