TRAVERSE CITY – Before the pros take center stage at Augusta National, juniors from across the country will take over the famed course this weekend for the fourth annual Drive, Chip and Putt Championship.
Founded in 2013 by the Masters Tournament, The PGA of America and United States Golf Association, the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship features 80 junior boys and girls golfers, competing in four age groups from 7-15.
Traverse City’s Anika Dy, 14, is one of two northern Michigan golfers competing this weekend.
Dy, who finished sixth in the 12-13 division a year ago, says the experience is one that will last a lifetime.
"I was on the 18th green, and I was putting, and I was like ‘this is where the pros putt,’ and I’m here too,” Dy said. “I just felt so special in that moment. I probably won’t be as nervous, because I know what to expect, and my nerves won’t be an issue. It’s just executing those shots, and we’ll see how it goes."
Dy is also putting the finishing touches on her freshman year at Traverse City West. In the fall, Dy led the Titans to their first MHSAA Division 1 state championship while also securing medalist honors at the regional.
Dy will be joined from Traverse City by Kyla Layman. Making her first appearance at the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, Layman will compete in the 7-9 division after winning a regional at Medinah Country Club in Illinois.
The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship begins Sunday at 9 a.m.
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