The 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals were hosted by the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, where eight new junior champions were crowned. This event was conducted on Sunday, April 5, and a live broadcast was provided by the Golf Channel. Consequently, a unique glimpse into the future of the sport was offered to viewers nationwide.
The Path to the National Stages
The Drive, Chip and Putt initiative was established as a nationwide development program for young golfers of all skill levels. It was launched through a partnership between the Masters Tournament, the USGA, and the PGA of America. Specifically, the three fundamental skills of driving, chipping, and putting are emphasized by this competition to inspire a lasting passion for the game.
The journey toward Georgia was initiated in the summer of 2025 at local qualifiers held across the country. Following these events, advancement was earned by top performers through various subregional and regional stages. Ultimately, a rigorous selection process was completed by 80 regional winners who were invited to compete in the National Finals at Augusta.
Scoring and Tournament Format
A specific point system is utilized to determine the victors in each of the four age categories. Points are awarded in three individual skill segments, with ten points being granted to the top performer in each category. Furthermore, an additional half-point is received for each shot that is successfully completed within a forty-second time limit.
Once all three skills have been tested, the overall winner is declared based on the highest point total accumulated. This format ensures that a well-rounded proficiency in the game is demonstrated by every champion. By focusing on these core elements, the program successfully identifies the most talented young players in the nation.
Recognizing the 2026 Victors
A diverse group of young athletes was celebrated during the final trophy ceremony. In the girls’ divisions, titles were secured by Riley Huang, Ava Chen, Lucy Cui, and Nirvika Koduru. Meanwhile, the boys’ trophies were earned by Roy Moon, Stephen Sanders, Texas Terry, and Arno Wehle. These winners represent a wide cross-section of the junior golf community.
Beyond the leaderboard, a celebration of the sport’s enduring appeal was witnessed by those in attendance. These promising careers will undoubtedly be watched with great interest as these future stars continue to develop. Congratulations are extended to all the 2026 champions for their remarkable achievements and dedication to the game.
(Photo Credit: Logan Whitton/Augusta National/Drive, Chip, & Putt)