CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. – Nine years of golfing seems to be paying off for one Calvert County middle school student. Luke Gladfelter, of Chesapeake Beach, is one of 80 golfers from 31 states who will be teeing off at Augusta National, just days before the 88th Masters Tournament.
Gladfelter will compete in the 10th annual Drive, Chip, and Putt National Tournament in Augusta, GA. It’s held in conjunction with the USGA, the Masters Tournament, and the PGA of America for golfers ages 7 to 15.
“Excited” and “thrilled” are the two words he uses to describe how he’s feeling about this opportunity.
“I am most excited to putt on the 18th green of Augusta National. It is one of the most famous greens in golf, ” Gladfelter told The BayNet.
Gladfelter started golfing at the age of four when his dad introduced him to the game. Five years later, he started playing competitively. His mom and dad say they couldn’t be more proud.
“Luke’s dedication and commitment to golf and his love of the game are inspiring. It is a dream come true that he is going to Augusta National. Our family is so proud of him,” says Beckie Gladfelter, Luke’s mom.
“This is one of the biggest prizes in junior golf because this event is held at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club and hosted by the three governing bodies, The Masters, United States Golf Association, and the PGA of America. It is an honor to be part of the history and the 10th anniversary of Drive Chip and Putt National Finals. The level of hospitality for the families involved has been unbelievable,” says Mark Gladfelter, Luke’s dad.
Gladfelter’s road to the Masters started in June 2023 when he qualified at the University of Maryland. In August, he finished second with 142 points at River Bend Club in Great Falls, Va., and advanced to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament at Aronimink Golf Course near Philadelphia. He scored 156 points and took first place.
Sean Bannon has been coaching Gladfelter for the last three years.
“Where Luke started, to where he has gotten to is quite an accomplishment! But taking his talents to the holy grail of golf courses, Augusta, is certainly one of the coolest achievements anyone can ever achieve, considering how many players you have to beat in order to get to the finals.”
Bannon says Luke has what it takes to bring home the coveted Drive, Chip, and Putt Championship.
“No matter what happens this weekend, all of Southern Maryland is pulling for him,” says Bannon.
You can learn more about Luke and his golf journey here.
The National Drive, Chip & Putt Tournament is this Sunday, April 7th and will be broadcast live on the Golf Channel. Gladfelter’s group will begin at 8:45am. The Masters begin on April 11th.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
Good Luck, Will be watching! Stay loose and do your best!