Junior Golfers from The First Tee Take on the Iconic Course
Augusta National Golf Club…the iconic course where legendary players like Nicklaus, Palmer and Woods solidified their legacies.
Did you ever think you or your child’s participation in The First Tee may be what allows you to head down Magnolia Lane and into this very exclusive club? For several junior golfers of The First Tee, this dream is becoming a reality.
This year, several young people (ages 7-15) from The First Tee are making their way to Augusta by participating in the inaugural Drive, Chip and Putt competition.
With each carefully planned golf swing, these young golfers became eligible to play in the national championship. And this year, those finals will be held for the very first time on the same course where they award a green jacket to the winner.
You can watch this year’s finals live on the Golf Channel beginning at 8AM Eastern, on Sunday April 6. Find out about some of these junior golfers as they prepare to play on one of the most prestigious golf courses!
Jeremy Chen—The First Tee of Greater Philadelphia
Number of years with The First Tee: 1
Favorite core value: Honesty
Favorite activity outside of golf: Football
Jeremy’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “I am so so so glad to play in the drive, chip and putt final at the best course in the world, Augusta National.”
Serena Chen—The First Tee of Greater Trenton
Number of years with The First Tee: 5
Favorite core value: Confidence
Favorite activity outside of golf: Cooking and reading
Serena and her family’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “We are so blessed and honored to have the opportunity to go to Augusta!”
Lauren Clark – The First Tee of Richmond & Chesterfield
Number of years with The First Tee: 5
Favorite core value: Integrity
Favorite activity outside of golf: basketball, swimming and reading
Lauren’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “This has been such a fantastic experience. I can’t wait to putt on the 18th at Augusta!”
Amanda Gartrell – The First Tee of Lakeland
Number of years with The First Tee: 6
Favorite core value: Respect
Favorite activity outside of golf: Basketball
Amanda’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “Hard work can pay off in amazing ways!”
Aiden Goldstein – The First Tee of Southern Nevada
Number of years with The First Tee: 3
Favorite core value: Perseverance
Favorite activity outside of golf: Flag football
Aiden’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “Quality over quantity.”
Samuel Kodak – The First Tee of Naples/Collier
Number of years with The First Tee: 4
Favorite core value: Courtesy
Favorite activity outside of golf: Basketball
Sam’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “Slow and steady wins the race!”
Ashley Menne – The First Tee of Phoenix
Number of years with The First Tee: 1
Favorite core value: Perseverance
Favorite activity outside of golf: Swimming, inline skating, violin, pottery
Ashley’s father’s thoughts about his daughter qualifying for the championship: “Thank you, USGA, Masters & PGA for organizing this competition & fulfilling the dreams of these young junior golfers! Ashley can’t wait to get to the Augusta!”
Tia Walker – The First Tee of Clearwater
Number of years with The First Tee: 2
Favorite core value: Sportsmanship
Favorite activity outside of golf: Reading, Birding and Piano
Tia’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “I’m thrilled to go to Augusta National Golf Club. I can’t wait to see the beautiful flowers & birds.”
Zell Wilson – The First Tee of Hammond
Number of years with The First Tee: 4
Favorite core value: Confidence
Favorite activity outside of golf: Soccer
Zell’s thoughts about qualifying for the championship: “I’m excited to compete at the National Drive, Chip and Putt Championship in Augusta! I will be able to see the course and challenging greens.”