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Masters Par 3 tournament abandoned after severe weather at Augusta

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The Masters Par 3 tournament had to be abandoned after less than an hour's play due to severe weather at Augusta National

The Masters Par 3 tournament has been abandoned after less than an hour's play due to severe weather at Augusta National.

Wednesday morning's practice was suspended and the course evacuated at 10am local time due to the threat of severe weather, but players and spectators were allowed back in time for the contest to go ahead as planned at 12.30pm.

The threat of further storms saw play halted for a second time just 50 minutes later, with the ground evacuated and gates closed for the remainder of the day due to the severity of the forecast.

Play is suspended due to inclement weather during a practice round prior to the start of the 2017 Masters
Image: The practice sessions have been impacted by severe weather

Thunderstorms were forecast to bring further heavy rain as well as hail and lightning, while a tornado warning was issued for the area.

Augusta National chairman Billy Payne said in a statement: "The safety of everyone on our grounds was the determining factor in our decision to close the course and cancel the par-three contest.

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Jack Nicklaus has told the players to expect a challenging start at Augusta

"We share in the disappointment of our patrons, but the safety of everyone on our grounds is always our primary concern."

Masters officials warned on Tuesday that the final practice day was likely to be affected by weather, with Rory McIlroy teeing off early on Wednesday morning to get in as much preparation as possible.

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AUGUSTA, GA - APRIL 05:  Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays a shot on the 15th tee during a practice round prior to the start of the 2017 Masters Tourn
Image: McIlroy is looking to complete a career Grand Slam this week

Monday's practice was also impacted, with a delay for torrential rain during the day before a tornado warning was issued during the afternoon.

Storms aren't expected to cause any issues once the tournament officially begins on Thursday, although gusts of up to 40 miles per hour are expected during the opening round.

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The cool and breezy conditions are also forecast for Friday, before the weather turns warmer and calmer over the weekend.

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