SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
With so much on the line at Drive, Chip and Putt regional qualifying, players had to manage their nerves to make it to Augusta National.
SILVIS, Ill. – Drive, Chip and Putt competition can produce butterflies the size of pterodactyls in young stomachs. After the action is complete, the butterflies are often replaced by smiles or sniffles.
Smiles as wide as the fairways at TPC Deere Run graced the faces of the eight National Finalists on Sunday. The sniffles, and a few tears, belonged to those whose dreams of competing at Augusta National were deferred, sometimes by a single point. Hugs from parents helped wash those tears away.
Sometimes, success is even more heartfelt, especially by the parents. Sunday’s regional qualifier at the home of the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic, complete with the tournament’s iconic tee markers, brought that home.
While 9-year-old Madison Pyatt of Eureka, Mo., was positively beaming after capturing the Girls 7-9 age division, her proud father Travis was explaining that life hasn’t always been sweetness and light for her.
“She has chronic migraines and is hospitalized because of it often,” he explained. “She knows her triggers and sometimes has to run out of class to take her medicine. It’s neat that she’s able to battle through it and go straight to the golf course.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A tee box from the John Deere Classic tournament on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A ball on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A tee box from the John Deere Classic tournament on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the chip competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant hands his score card to a volunteer during the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 14-15 division overall winner McKenna Nelson reacts after a putt during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 12-13 division third place Kirsten Nuss looks on during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Family members of girls 12-13 division overall winner Naryn Kim look on as she is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madison Pyatt is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Weston Law takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Madison Pyatt takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Boys 14-15 division third place Dawson Freeman, first place Caden Fehr, and second place Nolan Murphy pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 14-15 division overall winner Caden Fehr poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Boys 10-11 division third place Briar Megee, first place Texas Terry, and second place Luke Patel pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A general view as participants warm up on the putting green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Boys 12-13 division third place William Comiskey, first place Jackson Fogelson, and second place Niyam Upadhyay pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 10-11 division overall winner Taytum Oswald poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: An overall winner's medal and the John Deere Classic tournament trophy during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Girls 14-15 division second place Ainsley Wilson, first place McKenna Nelson, and third place Katie Betsworth pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 10-11 overall winner Texas Terry poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Weston Law takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Girls 12-13 division third place Kirsten Nuss, first place Naryn Kim, and second place Sarah Scott pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Boys 7-9 division third place Eli Domin, first place Emory Munoz, and second place RAYAN PATEL pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 7-9 overall winner Madison Pyatt poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 7-9 division overall winner Emory Munoz poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 12-13 division overall winner Naryn Kim poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 10-11 overall winner Texas Terry poses is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 10-11 division overall winner Taytum Oswald poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 14-15 division overall winner McKenna Nelson poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Girls 7-9 division third place Lilly Vitkus, first place Madison Pyatt, and second place Sophie Altis pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 10-11 division third place Nitya Shah and first place Taytum Oswald pose for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Andrew Lehman, tournament director of the John Deere Classic, presents an award to Girls 7-9 overall winner Madison Pyatt during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 14-15 division overall winner Caden Fehr poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Madison Pyatt putts on the practice green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Parents check scores during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A general view during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 12-13 division overall winner Jackson Fogelson poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A general view of the awards table during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Lucy Melchiori takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Lucy Melchiori takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A tee box from the John Deere Classic tournament on the drive course during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Andrew Lehman, tournament director of the John Deere Classic, presents an award during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Madison Pyatt takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Madison Pyatt takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A tee box from the John Deere Classic tournament on the drive course during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant reacts as she takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant reacts during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant lines up a putt on the green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant chips onto the green during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the drive competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Girls 12-13 division overall winner Naryn Kim is interviewed during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship - TPC Deere Run
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: A participant takes part in the putting competition during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
1
of
68
Pyatt picked up golf at age 4 and counts it as her favorite of the several sports she plays. She was perhaps the only competitor at Deere Run who has also competed in regional versions of the Punt, Pass and Kick contest and the Pitch, Hit and Run showcase.
“I was nervous at first, but I eased into it after I hit a few shots,” Madison said. “I was stressed, but I put as much power as I could into it.”
Her drives sailed down TPC Deere Run’s 10th fairway, allowing the pressure to be replaced by confidence, and she raced to an 11-point victory over Sophie Altis of Sussex, Wis.
Jitters are common in a regional qualifier given the stakes. After all, victory brings a trip to Augusta National for the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals on April 7, 2024. Jackson Fogelson of Bemidji, Minn., who captured the Boys 12-13 competition, put it well when he said, “It’s really hard not to be nervous. I was most nervous hitting that first drive down the middle. I just try to take the nervousness and it’ll make me play better.”
That worked to calm Fogelson, whose precise chipping and putting accounted for 120 of his 170 points and went a long way in earning him a win in his second regional qualifying appearance.
“I was a lot more positive (than before),” Fogelson said. “I didn’t worry about my score as much. I just worried about hitting better shots.”
I stayed strong, that is all I can describe. I was hungry to win this tournament. I have been waiting for a long time to get this far, and I am really proud of myself.
Ruba Jampa
McKenna Nelson of Beaver Dam, Wis., won the Girls 14-15 age group for her second National Finals berth. Nelson won the 10-11 age group in the fall of 2019, but her trip to Augusta National was delayed a year to the spring of 2021 by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It was crazy,” Nelson recalled. “Getting the news (of the delay) was the worst part. I really, really wanted to get back to know what the full experience was.”
Nelson took up golf at the tender age of 4, which isn’t unusual among elite juniors. In that regard, 11-year-old Texas Terry of Manor, Texas, is practically a newcomer to the sport. He started with an outing at Topgolf when he was 6. His parents haven’t been able to get a club out of his hands since.
Terry won the day’s closest competition with a one-point victory in the Boys 10-11 division over Luke Patel of North Aurora, Ill., who took second for the second time in three years.
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 10-11 overall winner Texas Terry poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
“I’m feeling proud of all the hard work I did, and I’m grateful for my parents and coaches for letting this opportunity come,” Terry said. “I’m looking forward to the environment (at Augusta National). To be able to step on the grass, it’s just going to be amazing.”
So might meeting idol Scottie Scheffler, a former Texas Longhorn, to whom he already knows what he’ll say: “I’m thankful for you going to UT, and I’m proud of what you’ve done. And hook ’em.”
Taytum Oswald of Beloit, Wis., a big fan of Nelly Korda, captured the Girls 10-11 age group. She tried to emulate Korda’s mental outlook and credits that for the victory in her second regional qualifying appearance.
“I was really focused, and I think that helps a lot for me,” Oswald said. “I think I’ve improved a lot. I think Nelly’s positive attitude is really good. She’s always so focused and she’s really good.”
SILVIS, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 01: Boys 14-15 division overall winner Caden Fehr poses for a photo during the 2023 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier at TPC Deere Run on October 01, 2023 in Silvis, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt)
Patrick McDermott/Getty Images for Drive, Chip & Putt
Naryn Kim of Lincoln, Neb., won the Girls 12-13 division with big drives and splendid putting, making the most of her fourth Drive, Chip and Putt appearance.
“I’d worked on my short game, because that’s what was missing,” Kim said.
The Boys 14-15 winner, Caden Fehr of Wildwood, Mo., has played since he was three and has been a Jordan Spieth fan for just about as long. He hopes to cross paths with the 2015 Masters winner at Augusta.
“I’ve watched him since I was a kid,” Fehr, 14, said, “including when he was really dominant in 2015. I like him because of that. It would be surreal to meet him.”
Finally, the one repeat National Finalist from last year, 8-year-old Emory Munoz of Lockport, Ill., introduced a new phrase into golf’s colorful lexicon. He knew that in last year’s regional qualifier at Medinah Country Club, Martha Kuwahara of Northbrook, Ill., repeated and made the most of her second appearance at Augusta National, winning the Girls 14-15 division in the spring after finishing ninth the year before.
Munoz finished ninth at Augusta this past spring and has drawn inspiration from Kuwahara’s feat.
“I’ve been saying to everyone, I want to pull a Martha,” Munoz said.
Madison Pyatt, 9, Eureka, Mo., has also won Punt, Pass and Kick and Pitch, Hit and Run competitions. In the Drive, Chip and Putt regional at TPC Deere Run, a pair of drives approaching 200 yards gave Pyatt, who tied for the second-most points in putting, a lead that couldn’t be surmounted.
“Jon Rahm is my favorite professional golfer because I swing like him,” Pyatt said. “I go back only so far. But I put as much power into it as I can.”
***
Taytum Oswald, 11, of Beloit, Wis., said her dad Tim and older brother Trey, a member of the Eastern Illinois men’s golf team, might play to see who caddies for her at Augusta National. Winning the chipping and putting skills played a big role in Taytum Oswald’s age-group win.
“It’ll be pretty exciting,” Oswald said of qualifying for Augusta National on her fourth try. “I’m going to be excited no matter how I do there.”
***
The fourth time was a charm for Naryn Kim, 12, of Lincoln, Neb. Kim bashed her best drive over 250 yards and sank two of three putts to post a 12-point victory over Sarah Scott of Lemont, Ill.
“I think it’ll be like a dream,” Kim said of going to Augusta National. “I’m most interested in seeing the practice round of the players. That’ll be exciting.”
***
McKenna Nelson, 14, of Beaver Dam., Wis., credits watching Drive, Chip and Putt for igniting her love of golf at age 4. Nelson’s two drives over 280 yards and two final chips that settled inside 4 feet from the hole helped her to a seven-point victory over Ainsley Wilson of Iowa City, Iowa.
“Drive, Chip and Putt has done so much for me,” Nelson said. “It’s given me the motivation, always made me work for what I wanted. Augusta National’s obviously the end goal. I think that’s made me what I am.”
***
Emory Munoz, 8, of Lockport, Ill., also won his age group at last year’s regional qualifier at Medinah Country Club, then finished ninth at the National Finals at Augusta National. To repeat, Munoz had to overcome the 25-point lead that Rayan Patel of Bloomingdale, Ill., had built after the driving and chipping skills. Munoz sunk his first putt and came within a foot of the hole on his last two putts.
“The thing that didn’t go right last year was my chipping,” Munoz said. “I didn’t know there was a slope on the back. Now I know I’ve got to land it a little shorter.”
***
Texas Terry, 11, of Manor, Texas, took second in a Topgolf competition at age six and has played competitively since. At the regional qualifier, a pair of drives of nearly 230 yards helped Terry edge Luke Patel of North Aurora, Ill., 120-119, despite Patel’s superior chipping and putting.
Terry said of his first name, “They (his parents) liked the name Austin and (all) that, but all their friends took them, so they said, ‘We’ll go bigger.’ I get kidded sometimes, but I say, ‘Everything’s biggest in Texas.’”
***
Jackson Fogelson, 11, of Bemidji, Minn., outscored his age-group competitors in chipping, then holed his first two putts en route to scoring a total of 170 points and winning by a 23-point margin.
“I’ll probably start practicing every day,” Fogelson said. “It’s kind of hard to practice in Minnesota (in the winter), but I’ll probably go into the simulator and practice. I’ll be practicing that downhill (second putt) a lot.”
***
Caden Fehr, 14, of Wildwood, Mo., wants to be an investment advisor like his father if his dream of pro golf doesn’t work out. Fehr came from five points behind Nolan Murphy of Carthage, Ill., after the driving portion of the competition, outscoring him by five points in both the chipping and putting skills. The ultimate difference was his final putt from 30 feet, which finished within a foot of the cup while Murphy’s was about two feet away.
“I’m excited because I’ll be at Augusta National, which is kind of crazy, but I’m nervous because I’ll be on national TV,” Fehr said.
