Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals Return to Augusta

Top youth golfers compete on eve of 90th Masters Tournament

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:44pm

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The annual Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals will take place at Augusta National Golf Club on Easter Sunday, the day before the start of the 90th Masters Tournament. The competition showcases the skills of top junior golfers from across the United States, giving them the opportunity to compete on the iconic course ahead of the prestigious Masters event.

Why it matters

The Drive, Chip and Putt competition is a key initiative by the Masters Tournament, the USGA, and the PGA of America to grow the game of golf by engaging youth and providing them a platform to showcase their talents. It has become a highly anticipated tradition that kicks off Masters week and highlights the future stars of the sport.

The details

The Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals feature boys and girls ages 7-15 competing in three skills challenges - driving, chipping, and putting. Participants advance through local and regional qualifiers to earn a spot in the national finals held at Augusta National. The competition tests the players' accuracy and distance in each discipline, with winners crowned in each age and gender category.

  • The 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals will take place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • The 90th Masters Tournament will begin the following day, Monday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Augusta National Golf Club

The iconic golf course that hosts the annual Masters Tournament, and has been the site of the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals since the competition's inception.

The Masters Tournament

One of golf's four major championships, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club since 1934.

USGA

The United States Golf Association, one of the governing bodies of golf that co-sponsors the Drive, Chip and Putt competition.

PGA of America

The membership organization of golf professionals in the United States, which also co-sponsors the Drive, Chip and Putt competition.

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What they’re saying

“The Drive, Chip and Putt competition is an incredible opportunity for junior golfers to experience Augusta National and showcase their skills on the eve of the Masters Tournament.”

— Fred Ridley, Chairman, Augusta National Golf Club

“We're thrilled to welcome the next generation of golfers to Augusta National and be a part of inspiring their dreams through this special event.”

— Seth Waugh, CEO, PGA of America

What’s next

The 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals will be televised live on Golf Channel, allowing golf fans around the world to tune in and watch the future stars of the sport compete on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National.

The takeaway

The Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals have become a cherished tradition that kicks off Masters week, providing a platform for talented junior golfers to showcase their skills and inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams in the sport.