MEDINAH, Ill. – The grounds of Medinah Country Club on Saturday featured 111 smiling youngsters and about twice as many nervous but cheerful parents, all of them hoping this wouldn’t be their last stop on the Drive, Chip and Putt trail.
For eight talented boys and girls, it was one more step. As the winners of their respective age divisions in regional qualifying, they will move on to the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club on April 3, 2022.
For both the winners and all participants at Saturday’s Medinah qualifier, the goal was to compete hard and have fun.
“You’ve got to make this game fun."
Michael Jorski, Boys 12-13 National Finalist
That goal, at least, was met.
The winners had a lot of fun. Take Michael Jorski of Clarendon Hills, Ill., the winner in the Boys 12-13 division. He’ll be making his second trip to Augusta National, having finished sixth in the Boys 7-9 division at the 2018 National Finals. Jorski advanced this time by outdriving and outchipping his competition.
“You’ve got to make this game fun,” Jorski said. “If it’s not fun, if you’re not doing well and you’re not liking it, it’s a totally different game. And you do it alone. It’s not like baseball or basketball. You get to blame yourself and do it for yourself. It’s more mental than physical. You’re mentally exhausted but not pouring sweat.”
Jorski’s chip-in on his third attempt proved to be the winning margin. It earned him 25 points, and he won his age division by two points. Absolutely fun.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A detailed view of a hole flag during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A competitor looks on during registration during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A competitor arrives for during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A competitor arrives for during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the Medinah Country Club club house during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A detail view of Titleist golf balls during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cam Mowry sits with his parents before the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Rocco Fimmen participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Rocco Fimmen participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kirke Riley participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A competitor places a ball on a tee in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cam Mowry participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cam Mowry participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cam Mowry participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kirke Riley participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kirke Riley participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kirke Riley participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kirke Riley participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Hank Graham participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Hank Graham participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Hank Graham participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Hayden Klein participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Gibson Blommers participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Carson Pitman participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Carson Pitman participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Carson Pitman lines up a putt in the putting competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Carson Pitman lines up a putt in the putting competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Carson Pitman lines up a putt in the putting competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A competitor participates in the chipping competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 7-9 overall top three (L-R), Luke Patel 2nd, Hayden Klein 1st, and Martin Liam 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 7-9 overall top three (L-R), Luke Patel 2nd, Hayden Klein 1st, and Martin Liam 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 7-9 overall winner Hayden Klein poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 7-9 overall winner Hayden Klein poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Chloe Lee participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Chloe Lee participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Taytum Oswald participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Taytum Oswald participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Lily Schrage participates in the driving skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Taytum Oswald participates in the putting skills competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 7-9 overall top three (L-R), Chloe Lee 2nd, Eloise Fetzer 1st, and Adalyn Lupton 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 7-9 overall top three (L-R), Chloe Lee 2nd, Eloise Fetzer 1st, and Adalyn Lupton 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Medinah Country Club
Girls 7-9 overall winner Eloise Fetzer poses with her medal during the regional qualifier for Drive, Chip and Putt at Medinah Country Club.
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 7-9 overall winner Eloise Fetzer poses with her medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Jack Rogers and Owen Wagie practice during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kylin Baker participates in the chipping competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Kylin Baker participates in the chipping competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 10-11 overall top three (L-R), Ayush Damodar 2nd, Ledius Felipe 1st, and Alan Yoda 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 10-11 overall top three (L-R), Ayush Damodar 2nd, Ledius Felipe 1st, and Alan Yoda 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 10-11 overall winner Ledius Felipe poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 10-11 overall winner Ledius Felipe is interviewed during a regional qualifier for Drive, Chip and Putt at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois.
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Brooklyn Haugen lines up a putt in the putting competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Ally Suhre practices during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Ally Suhre practices during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois.
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The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the putting green competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 10-11 overall top three (L-R), Emma Fiocchi 2nd, Liliana Graham 1st, and Katelyn Benda 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 10-11 overall top three (L-R), Emma Fiocchi 2nd, Liliana Graham 1st, and Katelyn Benda 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 10-11 overall winner Liliana Graham poses with her medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 10-11 overall winner Liliana Graham poses with her medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Owen Wagie participates in the chipping competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Owen Wagie participates in the chipping competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Owen Wagie participates in the putting competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 12-13 overall top three (L-R), Isaac Rumler 2nd, Michael Jorski 1st, and Owen Wagie 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 12-13 overall top three (L-R), Isaac Rumler 2nd, Michael Jorski 1st, and Owen Wagie 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 12-13 overall winner Michael Jorski 1poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Isabella Kongshaug participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Isabella Kongshaug participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Isabella Kongshaug participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Eva Brown participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Eva Brown reacts as she participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Eva Brown participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cody Guetzke participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cody Guetzke participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Jack Rogers and Cody Guetzke participate in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Frank Colbert participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Frank Colbert participates in the driving competition during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 12-13 overall top three (L-R), Eva Brown 2nd, Lisa Copeland 1st, and McKenna Nelson 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 12-13 overall top three (L-R), Eva Brown 2nd, Lisa Copeland 1st, and McKenna Nelson 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 12-13 overall winner Lisa Copeland poses with her medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 12-13 overall winner Lisa Copeland poses with her medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cody Guetzke participates in the driving competition during a playoff round during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Cody Guetzke participates in the driving competition during a playoff round during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Bennett Dolter participates in the driving competition during a playoff round during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Bennett Dolter participates in the driving competition during a playoff round during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Bennett Dolter participates in the putting competition during a playoff round during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at Medinah Country Club
Bennett Dolter (L) and Cody Guetzke (R) shake hands after a playoff round during a regional qualifier for Drive, Chip and Putt at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021.
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 14-15 overall top three (L-R), Bennett Dolter 2nd, Cody Guetzke 1st, and Tucker Johnson 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 14-15 overall winner Cody Guetzke poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Boys 14-15 overall winner Cody Guetzke poses with his medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 14-15 overall top three (L-R), Payton Haugen 2nd, Martha Kuwahara 1st, and Morgan Rupp 3rd, pose with their medals during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 14-15 overall winner Martha Kuwahara poses with her medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Medinah Country Club
MEDINAH, IL - SEPTEMBER 11: Girls 14-15 overall winner Martha Kuwahara poses with her medal during a regional qualifier for The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021 in Medinah, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
(Patrick McDermott // Getty Images on behalf of Drive, Chip and Putt)
Martha Kuwahara’s day was high on the fun meter as well. Her victory in the Girls 14-15 division came only three years after she began to play. Now, golf is about all the 13-year-old from Northbrook, Ill., does in the summer, having taken up the game at the advice of her brother.
“I practice two or three hours, then I play with my friends, then I practice another two or three hours,” Kuwahara said after outputting her rivals. “I’m probably at The Glen Club eight or 10 hours a day. A lot of my friends say I have an addiction to golf.”
It isn’t quite all golf and no play, she explained.
“I sometimes feel I’m hanging out on ‘childhood,’” Kuwahara said, using air quotes. “A lot of my friends are hanging out without me, but they still encourage me to play. I try my best, once a month, to take time off and spend as much time as possible with my friends – that one day.”
Inspired by her late grandfather, Yasuo Kuwahara, who also played golf, Martha took the title by outputting her competitors.
“He was a big role model for me, encouraged me to do a lot of things,” Martha said. “He still comes to mind when I win tournaments. He never got to see me golf. Sometimes I have lip-ins, and I say, ‘Maybe my grandfather helped me.’”
Lisa Copeland, a 13-year-old from Naperville, Ill., is also a second-time National Finalist, and like Jorski and Kuwahara, trying to balance fun and competition.
“I look at Drive, Chip and Putt as, it’s only nine shots,” Copeland said. “It’s not a big deal if you don’t go. Just make it if you can. It’s mostly just exciting. My dad would say you can hit a bad shot and it’s OK. It’s the bad decision-making or emotions. You want to be able to squash ’em down.”
Copeland squashed the Girls 12-13 field by 21 points, three more than her margin of victory at the 2016 regional, also played at Medinah.
Bennett Dolter (L) and Cody Guetzke (R) shake hands after a playoff round during a regional qualifier for Drive, Chip and Putt at Medinah Country Club on September 11, 2021.
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt
There was fun, joy and heartbreak in the Boys 14-15 division, where Cody Guetzke of Hartland, Wis., needed a playoff to subdue Bennett Dolter of Peosta, Iowa. They had tied with 148 points.
Dolter, the group’s best driver, pulled his playoff tee shot wide left. Guetzke, who finished fifth in putting, failed to keep his ball in the circle. In the end, Guetzke’s slightly better chip sent him to Augusta National.
“I was a little nervous,” Guetzke said. “I think it helped that I went first. It was very nerve-wracking, but it was a fun experience.”
Girls 7-9 overall winner Eloise Fetzer poses with her medal during the regional qualifier for Drive, Chip and Putt at Medinah Country Club.
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Even the youngest players understood what was on the line. Eloise Fetzer of La Grange, Ill., just turned 7, but when her dad Kevin told her, “Own the moment,” she stepped up. The Drive, Chip and Putt first-timer tied for ninth in driving, won the chipping skill and was sixth in putting in the Girls 7-9 division to score a 14-point victory over Chloe Lee of nearby Plainfield, Ill.
Eloise, a proud left-hander, also knows her game. Asked if she had thought of playing right-handed, she shook her head firmly and said, “No, thank you.” Said proud pop Kevin, “She thinks we play from the wrong side of the ball.”
Hayden Klein, an 8-year-old from Coon Rapids, Iowa, was the quietest winner, but spoke loudly with his putter. He sank his first putt and nearly holed the next two to stave off Luke Patel of North Aurora, Ill., in the Boys 7-9 division. That made the six-hour trip home all the more pleasant.
Boys 10-11 division winner Ledius Felipe of Poplar Grove, Ill., advanced to Augusta National on his fourth try, winning the drive and chip categories at Medinah. He was dead serious when he said, “If I just depended on my putting, it would really mess up my score.”
Liliana Graham of Bettendorf, Iowa, was “super excited” after capturing the Girls 10-11 division. She had to rally to do so, having missed the 40-yard-wide landing area with her first drive. But rally she did, piling up 50 points in both chipping and putting to win by two.
“It’s a big deal,” Graham said, grinning. It was not only big, but fun.
