The Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals is an annual junior golf competition that provides an incredible opportunity for young golfers to showcase their skills on the prestigious grounds of Augusta National Golf Club.
Founded in 2013 as a joint initiative between the Masters Tournament, United States Golf Association, and The PGA of America, this event offers a free developmental platform for aspiring golfers aged 7-15 to learn, practice, and compete in the game of golf.
Each year, 80 talented young golfers are invited to participate in the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals, which tests their skills in driving the ball, chipping accurately, and putting to the hole.
The 2023 finals will take place on April 2 at Augusta National Golf Club, offering an unforgettable experience to the competitors and a thrilling spectacle to the audience.
With an emphasis on fun, learning, and sportsmanship, the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals is not only an important event for the future of golf but also an inspiring showcase of the dedication and talent of these young golfers.
As they step onto the fairways and greens of Augusta National, these competitors demonstrate that the future of the sport is indeed bright and full of potential.
Event Overview
Participants in the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship compete in three skills challenges: drive, chip, and putt.
Points are earned in each challenge, and the winners are determined based on the cumulative scores from all three activities.
The National Finals comprises 40 boys and 40 girls, split across four age groups, who have advanced through local, sub-regional, and regional qualifiers to reach the final stage at Augusta National Golf Club.
The 2023 National Finals take place on April 2, and fans can tune in to watch live coverage of the event from 8 am to 1 pm EST on Golf Channel or NBC Sports digital platforms to witness the players in action and celebrate the future of the sport.
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Qualifying Process
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship has a structured path for participants to progress from grassroots competitions to the National Finals, which includes:
- Local Qualifiers: 342 local qualifiers held across the United States
- Sub-Regional Qualifiers: 60 sub-regional qualifiers
- Regional Qualifiers: 10 regional qualifiers
Age Groups
The competition is designed for boys and girls ages 7-15 and is divided into four age groups:
- 7-9 years old
- 10-11 years old
- 12-13 years old
- 14-15 years old
Each age group has separate competitions for boys and girls, making a total of eight divisions in which participants can compete.
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Scoring System
The Drive, Chip, and Putt Finals consists of three main components:
- Drive: longest usable drive
- Chip: best cumulative score of two chips
- Putt: best cumulative score of two putts
Participants in each division compete in all three components, with their scores combined for a cumulative total.
The participant with the highest overall score in each division is declared the winner.
In case of a tie, a playoff is held using the same three-component format until the winner is determined.
Augusta National: A Historic Venue
Augusta National Golf Club is the most prestigious golf course in the world.
Designed by renowned golf course architect Alister MacKenzie and golf legend Bobby Jones, the course has been home to the Masters Tournament since 1934.
What sets Augusta National apart from other golf courses is not just its challenging layout but also its iconic features.
Players and fans alike are captivated by the beauty and history of Amen Corner, Magnolia Lane, and the famous azaleas in full bloom during the spring season.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship Finals provide a unique opportunity for talented young golfers aged 7 to 15 to showcase their skills at this prestigious venue.
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Impact and Significance of the Event
The Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals is an important event in the world of junior golf, providing an excellent opportunity for young golfers to showcase their skills and talents.
This event plays a vital role in developing young golfers and promoting junior golf.
Fostering a strong foundation in golf among young players is crucial for the growth of the sport.
The Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals are jointly organized by the Masters Tournament, United States Golf Association, and The PGA of America, which reflects their collaborative effort to create a pathway for young golfers to develop their game.
Participating in an event at Augusta National Golf Club not only gives these young golfers a taste of top-level competition, but it also helps them develop essential skills in multiple aspects of the game.
Moreover, the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals have a broader impact on the spectators and the golfing community as a whole.
By showcasing the potential and dedication of young golfers, this event inspires a new generation of players to pick up the sport and strive for excellence.
The championship also encourages family participation and bonding, as parents and siblings often travel and support their young golfers at the competition.
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