Wichita Golfer Shines in Masters Debut

Sam Stevens makes history as first Wichita native at Augusta National in over 50 years.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:27am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a golfer mid-swing on the fairway of Augusta National Golf Club, with the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in a palette of emerald green, azalea pink, and bright white.A Wichita native's historic Masters debut brings a fresh perspective to one of golf's most revered stages.Wichita Today

Sam Stevens, a 2014 graduate of Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita, Kansas, made his debut at the prestigious Masters golf tournament at Augusta National. Stevens is the first golfer from Wichita to compete at the Masters since Grier Jones in 1973, ending a 53-year drought for the city.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of the most exclusive and prestigious golf tournaments in the world, and having a hometown player from Wichita compete at Augusta National is a major point of pride for the community. Stevens' appearance marks a significant milestone for golf in the Wichita region.

The details

Stevens, 30, qualified for the Masters by winning the 2025 Wichita Open, a PGA Tour event held annually in his hometown. He shot a respectable 2-under par 70 in his opening round, putting him in contention early on the historic course.

  • Sam Stevens graduated from Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita in 2014.
  • The last Wichita native to play in the Masters was Grier Jones in 1973.
  • Stevens qualified for the 2026 Masters by winning the 2025 Wichita Open.

The players

Sam Stevens

A 30-year-old professional golfer from Wichita, Kansas who is making his debut at the Masters tournament.

Grier Jones

A Wichita native who last competed in the Masters in 1973, prior to Stevens' appearance.

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What they’re saying

“It's a dream come true to be here at Augusta. I'm just trying to soak it all in and enjoy the experience.”

— Sam Stevens, Professional Golfer

What’s next

Stevens will look to continue his strong play over the next three rounds of the Masters as he aims to become the first Wichita native to make the cut at Augusta National.

The takeaway

Sam Stevens' Masters debut represents a significant milestone for golf in Wichita, Kansas, a city that has long been overshadowed by the sport's coastal hubs. His performance this week could inspire a new generation of young golfers from the heartland to pursue their dreams of competing on the game's biggest stage.