ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
Competitors at the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Sea Island Golf Club displayed equal parts ambition and a sheer love of the game.
ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. – All the skills are weighted equally.
That said, the drive, with a lower-case “d,” trumps all. Because even before eight champions emerged from the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Sea Island Golf Club on Sunday, each qualifying for the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club next April, they needed an uncommon inner drive and love of the game.
“She loves it to the point where, if anything, we’ve had to sometimes get her to tone it down,” said Lindsay Dickerson of Boca Raton, Fla., whose daughter, Madelyn, won the Girls 7-9 division. “I’ve never seen a kid work so hard. As long as it’s still fun, we’re all for it.”
Fun? Madelyn, 8, used to live in Colorado but now, with her family’s move to Florida last year, plays as much golf as she wants. She likes her hair done differently for each tournament and this time had her mother put in three braids, each signifying a different skill. She named her border collie No Double Bogeys, Bogey for short.
At Sea Island and nine other regional sites across the country, kids showed off their uncommon skills but at the same time reminded all of us that they’re just kids. They did cartwheels. They laughed. Some rolled push carts full of clubs and alignment sticks they could barely see over. They had fun.
They also had the drive.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Gavin Daino participates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 division second place, Kyndal Jones, first place, Madelyn Dickerson and third place Finley Gullion pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Spectators looks on during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Madelyn Dickerson smiles after putting during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A general view of the driving range during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 14-15 overall winner Jyden Sonnabend is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 14-15 overall winner Jyden Sonnabend poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 14-15 overall winner Jyden Sonnabend poses for a photo with his family during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 14-15 overall winner Jyden Sonnabend poses for a photo with his family during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 14-15 division first place, Jyden Sonnabend and third place Thaxton Cheyne pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant takes part in the chip competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins poses for a photo with her family during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 division second place, Amelie Zalsman, first place, Ariel Collins and third place Julia Hull pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Julia Hull smiles after winning third place in the Girls 14-15 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Kendall Black participates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Kendall Black participates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Spectators looks on during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 12-13 overall winner Jacob Thompson poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 12-13 division second place, Reece Goodson, and first place, Jacob Thompson pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 12-13 overall winner Jacob Thompson celebrates with his family during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant lines up her shot on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 12-13 overall winner Alyssa Sumulong is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 12-13 overall winner Alyssa Sumulong is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 12-13 overall winner Alyssa Sumulong poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 12-13 division second place, Nina Santiago, first place, Alyssa Sumulong and third place Mila Zalsman pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Alyssa Sumulong smiles after winning first place in the Girls 12-13 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Alyssa Sumulong smiles after winning first place in the Girls 12-13 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 12-13 division second place, Nina Santiago, first place, Alyssa Sumulong and third place Mila Zalsman pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Alyssa Sumulong smiles after winning first place in the Girls 12-13 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Alyssa Sumulong smiles after winning first place in the Girls 12-13 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Nina Santiago smiles after winning second place in the Girls 12-13 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant reacts on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant lines up her shot on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 10-11 overall winner Hudson Knapp is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 10-11 overall winner Hudson Knapp poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 10-11 division second place, Benny Ossi Lll, first place, Hudson Knapp and third place Preston Yu pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A family hugs during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Benny Ossi Lll waits in line for the Drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 10-11 overall winner Lily Wachter is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 10-11 overall winner Lily Wachter poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 10-11 division second place, Harper Kiss, first place, Lily Wachter and third place Iris Lee pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Lily Wachter smiles after winning first place in the Girls 10-11 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Lily Wachter smiles after winning first place in the Girls 10-11 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant takes part in the chip competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 7-9 overall winner Cameron Middleton is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 7-9 overall winner Cameron Middleton poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 7-9 division second place, Rivers Hood, first place, Cameron Middleton and third place Ryan Laird pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 7-9 overall winner Cameron Middleton celebrates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Cameron Middleton celebrates after winning first place in the Boys 7-9 division during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson celebrates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson receives her golden ticket during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson celebrates during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant reacts on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant lines up her shot on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson hi fives her mom during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madelyn Dickerson poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Madelyn Dickerson lines up her shot on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant chi during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A participant practices in the driving range prior to the start of the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Detail of the medals during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Detail of the medals during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Flags are seen during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Flags are seen during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A detail of a hat during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A worker marks the putting course prior to the start of the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Detail of the medals during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Detail of the medals during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A worker marks the putting course prior to the start of the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Sea Island Golf Club
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: A worker marks the putting course prior to the start of the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
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“He’s addicted,” Jeff Knapp said of his son, Hudson, who won the Boys 10-11 division. (He won the Boys 7-9 division at the 2022 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.) “His dream day, if I gave him a bucket of balls, would be to stay out here another four hours. I have to make him take breaks.”
Hudson, of Marietta, Ga., had disappeared down the driving range, but soon he reappeared.
“That’s the Brian Harman!” he said, pointing down the range toward the Open Championship winner and Sea Island resident, who was practicing. “And we got a picture with him!”
Hudson handed his father his first-place medal. “Can you hold this? I’m going to go hit balls.”
Jeff laughed. “You see what I mean?”
I spent a lot of time in the garage with a mat and a net, and she followed me in there, and the next thing you know we were buying her clubs.
Paul Sumulong
Cameron Middleton of Bonita Springs, Fla., won the Boys 7-9 division. Asked how he got into golf, he said it’s a mystery. Neither his mom, Gina, nor his dad, Marc, played the game, but there was a toy club lying around the house. At age 3, Cameron picked it up and hit a missile.
“We were like, OK, this is the sport,” Gina said.
Later, Cameron was on the tee of a par 3 when he had a premonition.
“Mom, you might want to get your phone out,” he said, which was how they got video of his hole-in-one. He learned trick shots during the COVID lockdown and built an Instagram following. At Sea Island, he and Marc wore matching pink-and-white shirts.
“I just had a good feeling about it,” Marc said. He was right.
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Boys 7-9 overall winner Cameron Middleton is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
Jyden Sonnabend of Windermere, Fla., who won the Boys 14-15 division, fell for golf early, if unconventionally. His father, Nolan, used to pitch him Wiffle balls only to watch Jyden let them fall and drive them off the ground with his toy bat. Nice swing, Nolan thought before pivoting to golf.
“He just had an early passion for it,” he said. “It was the only thing he wanted to do. I’d put on the Golf Channel, and he would sit still, which he wouldn’t do for even cartoons.”
Next April will mark the family’s second trip to Augusta National. They went for the Wednesday practice round in 2017, but thunderstorms limited them to only about 90 minutes at the course.
“Just very excited,” Jyden said. “Been trying so long - ever since I was 7. This is my last year.”
Ariel Collins of Locust Grove, Ga., who won the Girls 14-15 division, initially got into golf when she was three and tagged along to the course with her father, Anthony.
“Then one day, on the second hole, she said, ‘Dad, can I hit one?’” Anthony said. “From 40 yards she swung and put it on the green. I’ve still got the video; it’s on her website. I said to her mom, ‘We’ve got to get this one into golf.’ And now (Ariel) says, ‘Dad, can we go practice?’”
ST SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Girls 14-15 overall winner Ariel Collins is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Sea Island Resort on September 17, 2023 in St Simons Island, Georgia. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Mike Stobe/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
Lily Wachter of St. Augustine, Fla., who won the Girls 10-11 division for a return trip to the National Finals, was drawn to the game partly because her dad, Kevin, is a golf course builder. She has a little brother, Kevin Jr., who also plays, but his interest vacillates.
“He plays, but then he retires, then comes out of retirement,” Kevin Sr., said. “With Lily there’s no carrot to make her do anything. She loves playing and practicing.”
Jacob Thompson of Plantation, Fla., won the Boys 12-13 division. He and his twin brother, Amari, keep each other sharp – Jacob is a lefty, Amari a righty. Last year, Amari played No. 1 for their team at Indian Ridge Middle School in Broward County. This year, though, there’s no telling – their first match was at 4 p.m. on the Monday after the Sea Island regional. They play baseball, too, and had a game at 7 p.m., right after getting off the course.
“They compete against each other, and I think that’s the thing that drives them the most,” said Tanya, their mother, who was at Sea Island with her husband, Allan. “We stay out of it.”
Alyssa Sumulong, who won the Girls 12-13 division, enjoys musical theater (“Hamilton” is a favorite) and got into golf because her father played.
“We bonded over the game,” Paul, her dad, said. “I spent a lot of time in the garage with a mat and a net, and she followed me in there, and the next thing you know we were buying her clubs.”
Now she gets to go to the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals with her dad; her mom, Grace; her sister, Olivia; her grandmother, Aurora; and her dog, named – wait for it – Augusta.
Madelyn Dickerson of Boca Raton, Fla., who won the Girls 7-9 division, is getting used to trophy ceremonies. She also won her age group at the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship in Pinehurst, N.C. She’s a fan of Nelly Korda, whom she met at a PGA Tour Superstore in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and is looking forward to not only the Drive Chip and Putt National Finals but also watching the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.
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Cameron Middleton of Bonita Springs, Fla., who won the Boys 7-9 division, wore a Puma cap in honor of his favorite golfer Rickie Fowler. Middleton said he wants to win the Drive Chip and Putt National Finals so much he was already nervous. He’s an all-around athlete who also plays tennis and pickleball.
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Lily Wachter of St. Augustine, Fla., won the putting skill with 65 points to win the overall Girls 10-11 age group and book a return trip to Augusta National. She likes to draw flowers, and her favorite golfer is Nelly Korda. Wachter prevailed in a particularly strong age group. Iris Lee of Orlando came in first in her age group at the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and Under Armour World Championship, while Bella Simoes of Brazil played in the 36-hole U.S. Women’s Open sectional qualifier in Naples, Fla., in May – at age 9. She would have been the youngest to qualify – Lucy Li was 11 at the 2013 U.S. Women’s Open.
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Hudson Knapp of Marietta, Ga., won the Boys 10-11 division despite the fact that he’s only 9. He’ll turn 10 before the National Finals in April. Knapp was the Boys 7-9 Drive, Chip and Putt National Champion in 2022. “I can’t believe we’re going back,” said his father, Jeff.
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Alyssa Sumulong won the Girls 12-13 division with 138 points, just two more than runner-up Nina Santiago. It was the narrowest margin of victory at the Sea Island regional. Alyssa wants to be in musical theater when she grows up, and said, “I can’t even believe it. I’m so excited because my dog is named Augusta and I get to bring her.”
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Jacob Thompson, who won the Boys 12-13 division, plays pitcher and first base for his middle school baseball team, and one of his teammates is his twin brother, Amari. The two are close in ability in golf, too – Amari won their Drive Chip and Putt local qualifier – and trade bragging rights within the family.
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Ariel Collins of Locust Grove, Ga., won the Girls 14-15 age division with 158 points, which was the second-most total points of any boy or girl in the regional field. She wants to play on the LPGA tour and likes to hit drives at tournaments to help raise money for charities and foundations. Anthony, her father, got her into the game but said with a laugh, “I stopped playing when she turned 7 and I couldn’t beat her anymore.”
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Jyden Sonnabend of Windermere, Fla., who captured the Boys 14-15 division, scored the most points of any contestant at Sea Island, boy or girl, with 174. He started strong in the driving competition with 64 points and dominated the putting, where he holed his first and third putts and racked up 70 points.
