CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin smiles after receiving her award during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
Many of the competitors moving on from the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Castle Pines Golf Club have already covered several hundred miles in their qualifying journey, but the real adventure awaits in April.
CASTLE ROCK, Colo. – The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Castle Pines Golf Club featured expansive views, with Pikes Peak clearly visible despite being more than 40 miles away. An observer didn’t have to look nearly that far to see where Jacob Eagan, winner of the Boys 7-9 age group, resides.
In fact, Eagan’s dad Jason noted that he could literally see the family’s home — located at Plum Creek Golf Club in Castle Rock — from Castle Pines.
“It’s very fun (to compete in regionals) close to home,” said Jacob, who had about 10 friends and family members supporting him on site. “There’s not a lot of traveling, so that’s good.”
It’s just amazing. It’s such a special place. Driving down Magnolia Lane has been the biggest dream so far in my life. It’s so cool to finally accomplish it.
Jacob Eagan
But Jacob might speak largely for himself in that regard. While one other Coloradan — Pueblo resident Brady Shaw in the Boys 10-11 division — also qualified for the televised 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals, set for April 2, 2023, at Augusta National Golf Club, many of the other six national qualifiers had adventuresome experiences en route to earning a much-coveted invitation to the home of the Masters.
For instance, Saydie Wagner of Alpine, Utah, winner of the Girls 14-15 division, didn’t arrive at Castle Pines Golf Club for the regional qualifier until about 20 minutes before her 1:20 p.m., tee time. She and her parents flew in from Utah on Sunday, then a meal stop left them cutting things a little close.
“They (her parents) got lunch and I got no warmup,” Wagner said with a smile afterward. “I was so nervous when we were starting. I was so mad at them. Why would you guys go to lunch?”
But Wagner didn’t seem any worse for the situation as she hit her longest drive ever while competing in the DCP — 300 yards at roughly 6,300 feet of elevation on the downhill first hole. She scored 68 of her 154 total points in the drive skill alone — her first of the day.
“I had to get it,” she said of her last year of Drive, Chip and Putt eligibility. The maximum allowable age for competitors is 15.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 overall winner Saydie Wagner is congratulated by George Solich after realizing she had won the overal competition for her age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 7-9 participant Jacob Eagan carries his awards after winning the overall competition in his group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin accepts an award from George Solich during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 7-9 participant Jacob Eagan looks on as results are tallied before winning the overall competition in his group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 7-9 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Rami Moin, Jacob Eagan, and Vincent Kopetka stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich congratulates girls 7-9 overall winner Anna Midyett during an award ceremony during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 7-9 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Madelyn Dickersin, Anna MIdyett, and Adelyn Kim stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Duffy Solich works with participants as a volunteer at the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich looks on during an award ceremony during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 7-9 participant Jacob Eagan laccepts his award from George Solich after winning the overall competition in his group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 7-9 Participant Adelyn Kim competes during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Anna Midyett stands for a photo after winning the girls 7-9 overall during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 7-9 Participant Madelyn Dickerson competes during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A participant warms up in a general view before the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Duffy Solich, right, works as a volunteer at the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands with girls 7-9 event participants for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 7-9 division winner Jacob Eagan stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich congratulates girls 7-9 overall winner Anna Midyett during an award ceremony during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 7-9 Participant Adelyn Kim competes during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands with the participants in the boys 7-9 division during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin accepts an award from George Solich during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw reacts after after realizing that he won the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) reacts before being recognized for winning the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view as spectators and event participants watch the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin smiles after receiving her award during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Tyler Nikkel, Brady Shaw, and Oliver Athen stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (center) reacts alongside competitors, including Leo Jurbala (R) after realizing that he won the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) is congratulated by George Solich for winning the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: A general view of event signage during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw celebrates after a made putt in the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw celebrates after a made putt in the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) is congratulated by a fellow participant for winning the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) reacts before being recognized for winning the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) reacts alongside competitor Leo Jurbala (L) after realizing that he won the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Brady Shaw is congratulated by his mother after winning the Boys 10-11 ooverall during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw celebrates after a made putt in the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands for a photograph with participants in the Boys 10-11 division during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall winner Natalie Martin stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 10-11 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Maisy Shewchuk, Natalie Martin, and Anabelle Butefish stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 12-13 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Kai Jorde, Charlie Haney, and Jeffrey Chen stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 participant Emree Cameron competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 participant Sander Ohe competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the putt portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands for a photo with the girls 12-13 division during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 division overall winner Reese Barry stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 12-13 division winner Charlie Haney is recognized for the overall division win during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry is congratulated by George Solich during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 overall winner Saydie Wagner stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry is helped by her father during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Abigail Labrador tees off in a general view of the drive portion of the event, during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 12-13 overall winner Charlie Haney stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 participant Emree Cameron competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the putt portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Abigail Labrador, Reese Barry, and Landry Frost stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich looks on during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 overall winner Saydie Wagner stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 overall winner Saydie Wagner stands with her parents after realizing she had won the overal competition for her age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 participant Sander Ohe competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 division overall winner Reese Barry stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 12-13 participant Reese Barry competes in the putt portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 12-13 division winner Charlie Haney is congratulated by George Solich for the overall division win during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 participant Emree Cameron competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Benjamin Sander, Sander Ohe, and Riley Christensen stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands for a photo with the participants in the boys 14-15 division during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich looks at a flag signed by each participant in the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall winner Sander Ohe is congratulated by George Solich after winning the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich stands for a photo with the girls 14-15 division participants during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: George Solich looks on during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 division winner Sander Ohe stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 13-14 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Siyu Wu, Saydie Wagner, and Brynn Balliet stand for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Benjamin Sander, Sander Ohe, and Riley Christensen congratulate one another after standing for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall winner Sander Ohe stands by his father after reallizing that he had won the overall award for the division during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall winner Sander Ohe stands near his father (R) after winning the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 division winner Sander Ohe stands for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall winner Sander Ohe is congratulated by George Solich after winning the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 overall winner Saydie Wagner is congratulated by George Sorich after realizing she had won the overal competition for her age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 competitor Lake Elling studies the green as he competes in the putting portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 overall first through third place participants, (L-R) Benjamin Sander, Sander Ohe, and Riley Christensen congratulate one another after standing for a photo during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - Castle Pines Golf Club
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Girls 14-15 overall winner Saydie Wagner is congratulated by George Solich as her father takes a video of the moment after she won the overal competition for her age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
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Then there was the case of Sander Ohe of Edina, Minn., who also runs on his high school cross country team.
“I actually had a cross country race on Saturday in Iowa,” the 14-year-old said. “Right after that we had a 5 p.m. flight from Des Moines to Denver.”
Yet Ohe seemed to compete at ease in two sports within 24 hours at sites separated by roughly 700 miles. His 179-point total was the high score of the day across all divisions and good for a 24-point victory in the Boys 14-15 age group.
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 14-15 participant Sander Ohe competes in the drive portion of the event during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
Even though Minnesota is a trek from Castle Pines — close to 1,000 miles each way for some competitors — “The Land of 10,000 Lakes” ended up claiming three National Finalists at the regional, more than any other state. Joining Ohe were Reese Barry of Medina, who won the Girls 12-13 division, and Natalie Martin of Park Rapids, the Girls 10-11 winner who earned a return trip to Augusta National after competing in the National Finals last spring.
“It’s kind of a fun feeling because I get to go there and know people,” Barry said in looking forward to the trip to Augusta.
“It’s amazing that three people could represent Minnesota at Augusta,” Ohe said. “For me, I’ve been doing Drive, Chip and Putt since I was, like, 7. I made it to regionals once before, but this time I got through (to the National Finals), finally. It’s amazing. I think it’s definitely the biggest thing I’ve done in golf so far. I don’t think anything is really close to this.”
Shaw and Eagan, meanwhile, became the 11th and 12th different Coloradans to qualify for the National Finals since the inaugural event in 2014. The Centennial State sent a record four players to the National Finals earlier this year.
“That feels awesome” to join that elite group from Colorado, said Shaw, who traveled with his dad roughly 90 miles to Castle Pines early Sunday morning. “If my family comes (to Augusta National), I’ll be really glad to see them come and support me.”
CASTLE ROCK, CO - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys 10-11 overall winner Brady Shaw (R) reacts before being recognized for winning the overall for his age group during the Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifyer event at Castle Pines Golf Club on September 18, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
Dustin Bradford/Getty Images
Sunday marked the third time Colorado has hosted a Drive, Chip and Putt regional, but it was Castle Pines Golf Club’s debut in the role. Castle Pines hosted the PGA Tour’s International from 1986 through 2006 and is slated to host the BMW Championship in 2024.
Officials at the Jack Nicklaus-designed course went all in for Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifying, hosting a barbecue for competitors and their families on Saturday evening before about 30 members volunteered for Sunday’s competition.
“Everybody was pretty excited about showing up,” said George Solich, the chairman and president of Castle Pines Golf Club for nearly five years. “They love watching the kids’ golf swings and attitude, how they’re lining up putts and lining up drives. It’s pretty special. Our membership is about 60 percent national, 40 percent local. We have mostly locals here today, but we have a few national members who are in town and really wanted to be here.
“Castle Pines Golf Club is honored to host this event and our membership is thrilled. Our club is all about the game of golf and the history of the game of golf. We care about it deeply and we want to be part of something very special that Augusta National and the PGA of America and the USGA have come together and collaborated on. And I think the kids and their parents are really having a great time here.”
Anna Midyett won the Girls 7-9 division by three points and prevailed in the putting competition. Her supporters drove more than eight hours each way from their home in Bennington, Neb. Midyett has only been playing golf about a year, but the 9-year-old surprised herself by landing a spot in the National Finals.
“My dad would play (golf) with his friends sometimes just for fun, then he started taking me,” she said, explaining her start in the game. “I always put my ball like 10 feet from the hole and I’d say, ‘This is a good putt,’ and I’d make it. So I was like, ‘This is fun.’”
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Jacob Eagan of Castle Rock, Colo., won the chipping portion of the competition with a remarkable 60 points, and also captured the putting title on his way to medaling in the Boys 7-9 division.
He can’t wait to visit Augusta National Golf Club.
“I’m feeling so excited,” the 9-year-old said. “It’s just amazing. It’s such a special place. Driving down Magnolia Lane has been the biggest dream so far in my life. It’s so cool to finally accomplish it.”
Eagan said he’s played golf “about since I could walk — probably 10 months old.”
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Natalie Martin of Park Rapids, Minn., topped the driving and chipping competitions in winning the Girls 10-11 division. It will be Martin’s second consecutive trip to compete in the National Finals after she finished 10th in the same age group last spring at Augusta National.
Martin also qualified for the National Finals from a Colorado regional last year and scored the same number of total points, 114, both years.
Asked if last year or this one is more exciting for her, Martin said, “I think this year it’s more exciting, just because I can’t believe I made it back. I was not expecting to make it back.
“I’m feeling really good and I can’t wait to get back. I learned (last year) not to be as nervous. But then you always get more nervous because I think you feel a little more pressure because you want to go back.”
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Brady Shaw of Pueblo, Colo., won all three disciplines in the Boys 10-11 division and racked up a personal-best 159 points for a 32-point overall victory.
“I had a lot of confidence going into it,” the 11-year-old said of the regional qualifier. “My game has been getting a lot better. And my mental side was really good today.
“It feels really good (to go to the National Finals). But I’m just happy that everybody competed. You don’t have to come first to win. If you just compete, you win.”
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Reese Barry of Medina, Minn., didn’t win any of the individual disciplines outright in the Girls 12-13 division, but she was strong in each category to win by two points overall. The top five competitors in the division were separated by just six points.
Barry, 12, sometimes competes with Natalie Martin, now a two-time National Finalist, and has talked with her fellow Minnesotan about what it was like to compete at Augusta National in the spring.
“She said it’s such a cool experience,” Barry said. “So I’m really excited.
“It means a lot (to qualify) because I’ve thought about it for a long time and now I actually get to do it.”
Barry had never made it past Drive, Chip and Putt local qualifying before this year. “I would get in my own head and get nervous,” she said.
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Charlie Haney of Manhattan, Kan., won a relatively close overall competition in the Boys 12-13 division despite not prevailing in any individual discipline. He chalked up 154 total points, including 63 in driving. Haney, playing his first regional qualifier, made the 960-mile round trip to Castle Pines with his parents and sister. “Our whole family has had a great time here,” he said. “It was awesome. I love the experience.”
Like many people, Haney’s favorite professional golfer is Tiger Woods, but the 12-year-old feels he has a closer bond to Woods than most. After all, he shares a birthday with him on Dec. 30 and Woods’ son is also named Charlie. Woods’ father, Earl, is buried in Haney’s hometown, too.
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Saydie Wagner of Alpine, Utah, used a personal-best 300-yard poke to win the drive portion of the Girls 14-15 division and also prevailed in chipping.
Wagner resides in the same area as PGA Tour standout Tony Finau, and is a member at the same course, Alpine Country Club. She’s met the four-time PGA Tour winner a few times but said her favorite professional golfer is Nelly Korda.
“Tony is awesome because he’s from Utah, where you have to have a little more drive in the wintertime to practice. And I like Nelly because it’s cool that they have a sister bond (with Jessica),” said Wagner, who also has a sister. “She’s super tall and super strong and she practices hard.”
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Sander Ohe of Edina, Minn., scored 69 points in driving and 65 in putting – which included holed putts from 6 and 15 feet – to post a 24-point victory in Boys 14-15 division. His 179-point total was a personal best and the highest score of the day across all divisions
“It’s crazy, it’s unbelievable,” the 14-year-old said of qualifying for the National Finals. “I look forward to just being there. It’s just going to be amazing. And this is a beautiful place they held (regionals) at.
“I did feel like I had a good chance to win today. It’s good to put it all together.”
