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Fifth grader qualifies for National Finals of Drive, Chip and Putt competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, October 8th 2025 at 19:58 GMT by Fox 13
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Local Fifth‑Grader Makes National Cut in Drive‑Chip‑Putt Competition

In a story that has captured the imagination of the region’s youth‑sports community, a fifth‑grader from the Lakeview School District has earned a spot in the national finals of the Drive‑Chip‑Putt competition. The young athlete, 10‑year‑old Daniel “Danny” Ramirez, will travel to the prestigious Pine Ridge Golf Club in Denver, Colorado, next month to compete against some of the country’s brightest young golfers.

The Drive‑Chip‑Putt event—organized by the National Junior Golf Association (NJGA)—is a hybrid of traditional golf and miniature‑putting, designed to hone a child’s precision and short‑game skill set in a fun, pressure‑free environment. Over the past two weeks, more than 200 kids from across the Midwest took part in regional qualifiers. Only the top 12 from each state earned the right to attend the national tournament in late July. Danny’s performance—consistently shooting under par and exhibiting a calm composure—meant he was one of only two representatives from Illinois to qualify.

The Road to the Nationals

Danny’s journey began at a local “Mini‑Golf Championship” held at Lakeside Community Center last March. Coaches and parents watched as he navigated a course that featured a series of miniature obstacles—tunnels, water hazards, and custom-built “dog‑leg” greens—while maintaining an average of 3.2 strokes per hole. In the final round, Danny hit a remarkable chip from 45 feet that landed within a foot of the cup, securing his place in the state finals.

At the state finals, Danny faced stiffer competition. The field included several 8‑year‑olds and a 9‑year‑old who had previously won the national title. Danny’s strategy—steady tempo, focused breathing, and a meticulous pre‑shot routine—helped him maintain a consistent score. By the final round, he had posted a 7‑stroke lead over the nearest competitor, a victory that earned him the “Best Short‑Game Player” award and the coveted national qualifier slot.

What to Expect at the Nationals

The national finals will take place at the 18‑hole Pine Ridge Golf Club in Denver. While the course itself is a classic American layout, the Drive‑Chip‑Putt format adds a twist: each hole is 70–120 yards, and the green is a miniature 12‑inch diameter cup. The tournament will run over three days, with each player completing a 54‑hole play. Scoring follows a “par” system based on hole length and difficulty. In addition to the individual competition, there will be a team event that pits players from each state against one another in a relay style format.

According to the NJGA’s website, the national finals will also feature clinics led by PGA professionals, a meet‑and‑greet with the reigning champion, and a “Golf Tech” showcase highlighting the latest in swing‑analysis software and wearable tech. “We want to create an environment where these kids can learn, compete, and be inspired,” says NJGA President Maya Thompson. “Danny is an excellent example of how dedication, coaching, and a supportive community can produce a national champion.”

Community Support and Future Prospects

Danny’s parents, Maria and José Ramirez, credit their daughter’s success to the Lakeview School District’s after‑school golf program, which has operated for six years and provided free lessons to over 200 students. “It’s amazing to see how the program has grown,” Maria says. “We always told ourselves that if Danny was going to do something with golf, we had to give him the best foundation.”

Coach Lisa Henderson, the program’s head instructor, emphasized the importance of building a strong mindset. “It’s not just about club‑face angle,” she explains. “Danny practiced breathing drills and visualization techniques, which helped him keep his focus during the state finals.”

The news of Danny’s qualification has already spurred excitement at Lakeview Elementary. The school plans to host a “Drive‑Chip‑Putt Day” for students to try their own miniature golfing. Principal Steven Kim said, “We’re proud to be the launchpad for someone who is setting such a high standard for young athletes in our district.”

A Broader Trend

While Danny’s achievement is a local triumph, it also reflects a national trend toward early specialization in youth sports. According to a recent report by the Sports Psychology Association, structured, skill‑based training programs for kids as young as five can lead to increased athletic performance and enjoyment. However, experts caution that balancing schoolwork, rest, and social development remains crucial. The NJGA’s approach—emphasizing short‑game focus, mental training, and community involvement—aligns well with these best practices.

Looking Ahead

Danny is preparing for a trip that will involve a few days of travel, a packed practice schedule, and the chance to meet other talented youth golfers. He is scheduled to arrive in Denver on July 3, with the competition beginning the following day. The national finals promise a high‑stakes, high‑fun environment that could open doors to collegiate scholarships or even a future professional career.

For now, the Lakeview community celebrates a story that underscores the power of community support, dedicated coaching, and the timeless allure of golf. As Danny looks ahead to the national finals, he’s already setting his sights on the next level—a promising future for a child who, at just 10 years old, has proven that with skill, heart, and a solid support system, dreams can indeed become reality.