Backstage Country

LISTEN LIVE

80 Young Golfers Win Spots in 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt Finals at Augusta National

Eighty young golfers have received invitations to the 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt Finals, including twelve returning competitors.

Eighty young golfers have received invitations to the 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt Finals, including twelve returning competitors.

Kipp Madison, boys 12-13, sets his ball on the green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier on September 24, 2023. (Photo by Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)

Photo by Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt

Young golf stars from across North America will soon walk the storied grounds of Augusta National Golf Club. The 12th Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals in 2026 brings together 80 skilled players from 34 states and one Canadian province.

Kipp Madison of Evans, Georgia, aims to defend his Boys 12-13 crown from 2024. His stellar 150-point showing at TPC Sawgrass earned him another shot at glory. "I'm just excited to go down Magnolia Lane again," Madison said, according to the DriveChip&Putt release.

The competition tests three core skills that make up the game. Kids ages 7-15 compete in four groups, with no cost to join this nationwide program.

Twelve past contestants will return to the famous course, including Dawson Dial, Callen Cronin, Caroline Cui, Karis Reid, and Texas Terry.

The road to Augusta started in May. Top players advanced through summer contests, with final spots won at 10 major courses during fall qualifiers.

Golf Channel will broadcast the finals live, just days before the 90th Masters starts.