ESPN on-air personality Mike Tirico is approaching the network's initial broadcast of the Masters Tournament's Par-3 Contest with the belief that the competition itself will color the commentary and guide the telecast's tone.

The Par 3 Course at the Augusta National Golf Club. (Chris Thelen/Staff)

"I've always believed the event dictates how it is broadcast," he said Monday. "The Par-3 is a deep breath before the tournament. I think the broadcast will communicate that, as well as the family atmosphere."

Par-3 competitors frequently look to their family members for assistance. It isn't unusual to see a golfer's child manning his bag -- at least figuratively -- and even taking some putts. Tirico said he sees that as one of the great rewards of ESPN being allowed to televise the event for the first time.

"I mean, when you see some of the biggest golfers out there with their kids, how can kids not respond?" he said. "How can they not become enthusiastic about the game?"

Tirico said his job today is simple: He wants to convey a sense of being at the course to viewers.

He was quick to say that although he might be ESPN's public face for the event, he's only a small part of a larger machine bringing the action to the audience.

"It just happens to be my voice," he said with a laugh.

Tirico (Annette M. Drowlette/Staff)

Tirico said the best part of the gig is the opportunity to return to Augusta National Golf Club.

"There's really nothing like it," he said.

"After five years being away, coming back through that gate this morning gave chills and made me smile. It's really something special."

Reach Steven Uhles at (706) 823-3626 or steven.uhles@augustachronicle.com.