Stephen Sanders, Jr., an 11-year-old junior golfer from Grand Prairie, Texas, has earned an invitation to compete at the Drive, Chip, & Putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
The Drive, Chip, & Putt competition, founded by The Masters Tournament, The PGA of America, and the USGA, will be broadcast live on the Golf Channel beginning at approximately 7 a.m. CT.
Stephen, who goes by the nickname SJ, is excited about competing in the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals at Augusta National. A few weeks ago, we caught up with SJ as he prepared for the competition.
“What makes me excited about going to Augusta is competing with my best friend Ethan [Li], who is going to be playing, and being with my dad and my family,” he said.
Much of his journey has been shaped by the connection he has with his dad, who introduced him to golf. His father will be his caddie during the competition, a role that holds great significance for SJ…