PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Just days before nearby Bethpage Black was set to host the 2025 Ryder Cup matches, Ridgewood Country Club hosted the next generation’s dreams of golf greatness. One National Finalist from New England even shared Ryder Cup ties of his own.
PARAMUS, N.J. – The Ridgewood Country Club is no stranger to history.
The hallowed A.W. Tillinghast design has hosted many of golf’s most prestigious events, from the U.S. Amateur to the U.S. Senior Open to the Senior PGA Championship and, notably, the 1935 Ryder Cup.
Just days before Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, N.Y., is set to bring the Ryder Cup back to the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area, Ridgewood also had a place in the spotlight. On Saturday, nearly 90 years to the day of the 1935 matches and 46 miles to the west of Bethpage, 96 young golfers teed it up at Ridgewood for a Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier, hoping to capitalize on a chance to write their own history and punch their ticket to Augusta National for the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals next April.
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Mario Vilardi reacts after winning the Boys 10-11 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Kylee Miao reacts after winning the Girls 7-9 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot of a golf bag is seen during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Kylee Miao reacts after winning the Girls 7-9 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Kylee Miao reacts after winning the Girls 7-9 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Mario Vilardi reacts after winning the Boys 10-11 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Mario Vilardi reacts after winning the Boys 10-11 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Josh Katz reacts after winning the Boys 7-9 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Mario Vilardi reacts after winning the Boys 10-11 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Mario Vilardi reacts after winning the Boys 10-11 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Kylee Miao reacts after winning the Girls 7-9 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Josh Katz reacts after winning the Boys 7-9 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Josh Katz reacts after winning the Boys 7-9 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Charlotte Rollins reacts after winning the Girls 14-15 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot of the first place medal during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Charlotte Rollins reacts after winning the Girls 14-15 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Sohan Madane lines up a putt during the The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: The Ryder Cup trophy is seen during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after winning the Girls 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Charlotte Rollins reacts after winning the Girls 14-15 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after winning the Girls 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Sohan Madane reacts after winning the Boys 14-15 division during the The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Callen Cronin reacts after winning the Boys 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot of a signed flag by the particpants of The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Callen Cronin reacts after winning the Boys 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant poses with the Ryder Cup trophy during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot of signage at The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Naw Whar reacts after winning the Girls 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Sohan Madane reacts after winning the Boys 14-15 division during the The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Charlotte Rollins reacts after winning the Girls 14-15 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Callen Cronin reacts after winning the Boys 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Charlotte Rollins reacts after winning the Girls 14-15 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A detail shot of a signed flag by the particpants of The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant reacts while putting during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Callen Cronin reacts after winning the Boys 12-13 division during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant lines up his drive during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant watches his drive during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant watches his drive during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant lines up his drive during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: A participant watches his drive during The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier - The Ridgewood Country Club
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Sohan Madane holds his medal after winning the Boys 14-15 division during the The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
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“This is what the club is all about,” said David Reasoner, Ridgewood’s head golf professional, proudly pointing at the club’s wall of champions.
“For kids to come here from Virginia to Maine and compete a week before the Ryder Cup matches in our area is really exciting for our club.”
The competitors and their families echoed that sentiment.
“Oh, it’s really big,” said Boys 10-11 champion Mario Vilardi, the Hopewell Junction, N.Y., resident whose 110 points earned him a six-point victory in his age group. “Me and my grandpa talked about really wanting to go to Augusta National. Now we get to do it together, which makes it great.”
To completely feel the magnitude of the event, families didn’t have to look any farther than theputting green at Ridgewood. As the young competitors lined up their shots and tried to putt their way to the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals, they did so in the shadow of the 1935 Ryder Cup trophy, which was positioned just 10 yards from the putting competition.
“The trophy and all of the people watching was pressure, but I learned I can handle myself,” said Boys 14-15 champion Sohan Madane. “Hopefully that will help me when I get to the Finals at Augusta.”
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Sohan Madane reacts after winning the Boys 14-15 division during the The Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
Charlotte Rollins stayed mentally strong to handle the pressure of the day’s events. The Girls 14-15 champion from Boxford, Mass., aspires to be a neurologist when she grows up and knows how crucial a role the mind plays in the game of golf.
“I think the mental side of the game is probably the most important, and it’s something I’ve probably worked on the most over the years,” said the 14-year-old Rollins.
Not knowing where she stood when she reached the putting skill, Rollins held her nerve and rolled in a 30-foot putt on her final stroke of the day.
“I was just trying to get some points since I had gotten so far already,” she said. “I wasn't trying to make it, I was just trying to do the best I could, honestly.”
Callen Cronin, a 12-year-old from Bradford, Mass., will make a return trip to Augusta National after winning the Boys 12-13 division with 140 total points.
“I can’t believe they had the Ryder Cup trophy next to the green,” said Cronin, who finished fourth at the National Finals in 2024.
This is what the club is all about.
David Reasoner
Just like fellow New Englander Keegan Bradley, the U.S. Ryder Cup team captain, Cronin plans to make his region proud, and he’s already received a little help from the captain himself. Cronin met Bradley at Fenway Park in Boston two years ago, where Keegan advised the young player to practice a variety of different shots.
“It was super cool, and I actually impressed him with one of my chips,” Cronin said. “He’s a really nice guy. I’m excited to watch him captain the Ryder Cup and just like him, I’m really excited to show my stuff at Augusta from New England.”
Speaking of advice, the Chen family, from Brooklyn, N.Y., exchanged some on their way to the regional qualifier. Ava, 11, and her brother Ethan, 9, both competed at Ridgewood and helped each other prepare for the day.
PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 20: Ava Chen reacts after winning the Girls 10-11 division duringThe Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifier at Ridgewood Country Club on September 20, 2025 in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and Putt)
Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Drive, Chip and
“I told Ethan to always check the break on his chipping,” said Ava, who won the Girls 10-11 division with 135 points.
Even though Ethan ended up finishing third in the Boys 7-9 contest, he gets credit for the advice he gave his big sister before the regional.
“Yeah, he told me to just try my best … and it worked!”
That’s sound advice whether it’s given by an 8-year-old junior golfer, a seasoned professional at the Masters Tournament or a first-time Ryder Cup captain.
Boys 7-9 division winner Josh Katz said his favorite golfer is Tiger Woods.
The fourth grader from Guilford, Conn., channeled his inner Tiger on the putting green, totaling 60 points en route to a total score of 124and a six-point victory. He said the regional qualifier at Ridgewood became his new favorite golf memory, taking the place of the hole-in-one he made earlier this year.
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Nerves almost got the best of 8-year-old Kylee Miao. The fourth grader from Edgewater, N.J., woke up Saturday morning extremely nervous until her dad sat her down for a talk.
“My dad said it’s OK to be nervous,” Miao said. “He said if you're not nervous, it means you don't care.”
Miao was able to calm those nerves and score 121 total points to win the Girls 7-9 division. To celebrate, she plans on eating ramen and watching her favorite movie, “KPop Demon Hunters.”
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Mario Vilardi’s favorite golfer is Bryson DeChambeau. His favorite skill in the Drive, Chip and Putt competition? Vilardi said it’s driving the ball, but just like DeChambeau leaned on his putter to win the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst (N.C.) Resort, Vilardi used his to propel him to the National Finals.
The Hopewell Junction, N.Y., native sank a clutch putt to advance from his subregional in Connecticut and then rolled in two of his three putts at the regional qualifier to win the Boys 10-11 division and move on to Augusta National.
His inspiration? “My mom,” Vilardi said. “She inspires me by just being nice to me.”
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Consistency was the name of the game for Girls 10-11 age group winner Ava Chen. Despite not winning any single skill, Ava tallied 135 total points to advance to the National Finals.
The sixth grader from Brooklyn, N.Y., took up golf just three years ago. After three tries, she is now heading to Augusta National. So how does a Drive, Chip and Putt National Finalist celebrate?
Callen Cronin, winner of the Boys 12-13 age group, will make a return visit to Augusta National next spring. The 12-year-old from Bradford, Mass., qualified for the 2024 National Finals in the Boys 10-11 division and plans on using that learning experience to help him in 2026.
Cronin said he will focus on his putting warmup this time around. He was surprised by Augusta National’s speedy greens in 2024 and wants to make an adjustment so his putting is locked in at next spring’s National Finals.
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Naw Whar used the four-and-a-half-hour drive from Hampton, N.H., to Ridgewood to calm her nerves.
“I was extremely nervous,” says Whar, whose name means Ms. White Flower in Burmese.
Whar said she used meditation during the long car ride to calm herself, and it paid off. The 13-year-old totaled 117 points, including 50 points in the putting skill, to earn her first trip to the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.
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Sohan Madane proved that the third time at Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifying was indeed the charm. The 15-year-old from Long Valley, N.J., punched his ticket to Augusta National after coming up short in both 2022 and 2023.
Madane, whose favorite golfer is Justin Thomas, drove it just like JT en route to victory in the Boys 14-15 age group. After tallying 58 points with his driver at his subregional qualifier, Madane racked up 56 points with the big stick at Ridgewood to earn a trip to the National Finals that he called “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
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After coming up short in Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifying the past three years, Charlotte Rollins was victorious in the Girls 14-15 age group in her final try.
The 14-year-old from Boxford, Mass., remembers the car rides home from regionals with her parents the past few years and knows this year will be quite different. After staying in New York City with her mom and dad, Rollins plans on celebrating with a good steak and getting her first taste of “real” New York cheesecake.
