The drive chip and putt 2026 schedule is officially underway, giving thousands of young golfers across the United States a clear path from local courses to one of the most iconic stages in sports—Augusta National. With registration open and events already rolling out nationwide, families and aspiring junior players are closely tracking every milestone in this year’s competition cycle.
The program continues to grow in scale and visibility, offering a structured, merit-based route for boys and girls ages 7–15 to compete in one of golf’s most prestigious youth events.
If you’re planning to participate or simply follow the action, now is the time to understand the full timeline and what each stage of the schedule means.
Stay ahead of every key date and qualifying window—bookmark this guide so you don’t miss your chance to compete.
Table of Contents
What Is Drive, Chip and Putt?
Drive, Chip and Putt is a nationwide junior golf development initiative focused on three fundamental skills: driving, chipping, and putting. The competition is free to enter and open to boys and girls in four age divisions.
The program is backed by leading golf organizations and culminates in the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club, held just before the Masters Tournament begins.
Each year, the competition follows a multi-stage format:
- Local Qualifiers
- Sub-Regional Qualifiers
- Regional Qualifiers
- National Finals
This tiered system ensures that only the top performers advance, creating a highly competitive yet accessible pathway.
Drive Chip and Putt 2026 Schedule: Full Timeline
The 2026 season follows a structured progression that begins in spring and concludes in early April 2026.
1. Local Qualifiers (May – July 2026)
The first stage of the drive chip and putt 2026 schedule begins on May 2, 2026, with more than 350 local qualifying events held across all 50 states.
Examples of confirmed local dates include:
- May 3, 2026 – Orting, Washington
- May 9, 2026 – Salem, Oregon
- June 13, 2026 – Tacoma, Washington
- June through July – Multiple sites nationwide
These events serve as the entry point for all participants. Each site selects top performers from every age and gender division to advance.
Competitors are evaluated based on precision and consistency across:
- Driving distance and accuracy
- Chipping control
- Putting performance
Because of the large number of events, families have multiple opportunities to find a nearby location.
2. Sub-Regional Qualifiers (July – August 2026)
Players who advance from local qualifiers move on to sub-regional competitions held during July and August 2026.
Approximately 64 sub-regional events take place nationwide.
This stage significantly raises the level of competition, as only the top finishers from each local event participate. Players must deliver consistent performances across all three skills to advance.
3. Regional Qualifiers (September – October 2026)
The next phase includes 10 regional qualifiers, typically scheduled between September and October 2026.
Regional events are held at premier golf venues and represent the final step before Augusta.
Only one winner per age and gender division advances from each regional site, making this stage highly competitive. By this point, participants are among the best junior golfers in their respective regions.
4. National Finals (April 5, 2026)
The season culminates at Augusta National Golf Club on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
This marks the 12th annual National Finals, featuring 80 finalists from across the country.
The event takes place just before the Masters Tournament and is broadcast nationally, offering young golfers a rare opportunity to perform on one of the most famous courses in the world.
Participants compete in:
- Driving accuracy and distance challenges
- Short-game chipping contests
- Precision putting drills
A new addition in 2026 includes a pace-of-play bonus, rewarding players who complete shots within a designated time limit.
How the Qualification Process Works
Understanding the progression is key for families planning participation.
Here’s how players move through the system:
- Register Online
Registration opens early in the year and is required before entering any local event. - Compete Locally
Perform well enough to win your division at a local qualifier. - Advance to Sub-Regionals
Compete against stronger fields and continue progressing. - Reach Regionals
Only the top players remain, competing for a spot at Augusta. - Earn a National Finals Invitation
Winners from each regional division secure their place at Augusta National.
This step-by-step pathway ensures fairness and equal opportunity for participants nationwide.
Eligibility and Age Divisions
The competition is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 15, divided into four age categories:
- 7–9
- 10–11
- 12–13
- 14–15
Each division is judged separately, ensuring fair competition among similar age groups.
Participants must meet age requirements as of the National Finals date in April 2026.
What Makes the 2026 Season Unique
The 2026 schedule introduces subtle updates that reflect the program’s continued evolution.
Pace-of-Play Bonus
A new scoring element rewards players who complete shots within a set time limit. This change emphasizes efficiency and mirrors real tournament conditions.
Expanded National Reach
With more than 350 local qualifiers, access to the program remains widespread, making it easier for families across the U.S. to participate.
Continued Growth in Participation
The event continues to attract thousands of young golfers annually, reinforcing its role as one of the premier junior golf competitions in the country.
Why Families Are Paying Attention
Drive, Chip and Putt offers more than competition—it provides a structured introduction to golf at a high level.
Key benefits include:
- Free participation
- Nationwide accessibility
- Equal opportunity across regions
- Exposure to elite golf environments
For many young players, the experience serves as a stepping stone toward competitive golf careers.
Tips for Preparing for the 2026 Qualifiers
Success in the competition requires focused preparation.
1. Master the Fundamentals
Since scoring is based on three core skills, players should dedicate time to:
- Driving accuracy drills
- Short-game consistency
- Putting precision
2. Practice Under Pressure
Simulating competition conditions can help players stay composed during events.
3. Understand Scoring
Each skill is scored separately, so balanced performance is essential.
4. Arrive Early and Prepared
Being familiar with the venue and schedule can make a significant difference.
Key Dates to Remember
Here’s a quick snapshot of the drive chip and putt 2026 schedule:
- Registration Opens: January 2026
- Local Qualifiers Begin: May 2, 2026
- Sub-Regionals: July – August 2026
- Regionals: September – October 2026
- National Finals: April 5, 2026
These dates form the backbone of the competition year.
The Road to Augusta
For many participants, the ultimate goal is reaching Augusta National.
The journey requires:
- Winning at multiple levels
- Maintaining consistency across all skills
- Performing under increasing pressure
Only 80 players nationwide earn the opportunity to compete at the National Finals, making it one of the most selective junior events in golf.
Growing Impact of the Program
Since its inception, Drive, Chip and Putt has played a major role in expanding youth participation in golf.
The program emphasizes:
- Inclusivity
- Skill development
- Sportsmanship
By removing financial barriers and offering nationwide access, it continues to attract a diverse range of young athletes.
Final Thoughts on the 2026 Schedule
The drive chip and putt 2026 schedule delivers a clear and structured path for young golfers aiming to compete at the highest level of junior competition.
With local events beginning in May and the National Finals set for April 5 at Augusta, the season offers months of competitive opportunities leading to one unforgettable stage.
Keep following the schedule, track your nearest qualifier, and get ready—your journey to Augusta could start this season.
