Drive, Chip, & Putt experience succeeds in growing the game

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The most prestigious golf tournament and golf address in the world has worked hard to be more inclusive. One of the big events leading up to the Masters tournament is the Drive, Chip, & Putt finals held the Sunday before Masters week.

Junior golfers from all over the country have a chance to earn a trip to Augusta through local and regional qualifying rounds.

Texas Longhorn sophomore Kaitlyn Papp is one of the top amateur golfers in the world and while she didn’t earn a trip to the finals, she did compete in the event..

“I think it’s a great way to grow the game for kids,” Papp said. “It’s a fun competition and eventually if you’re lucky enough, you can make it to the end at Augusta, so I think it’s a pretty cool motivator.”

While driving is an element, it also emphasises a part of the game sometimes ignored by young golfers—the short game.

“Short game is everying in golf. I think just practicing as much chipping and putting, as much as possible. My dad had me putting and chipping before I was allowed to hit so he definitely taught me short game early on.”

While Papp didn’t make it to Augusta National for the Drive, Chip, & Putt, she is going to be there for the first ever Augusta National Women’s Amateur Tournament.