Andrew Grigsby, 13, placed 8th in his age division at the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals held at Augusta National Golf Club. Photo Credit: Provided
Most 13-year-olds spend weekends juggling school, sports, and hanging out with friends. However, for Morgantown native Andrew Grigsby, a recent weekend involved competing at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia alongside some of the nation's top young golfers.
Grigsby earned a place in the Drive, Chip, and Putt National Finals, a youth skills competition that tests driving, chipping, and putting for boys and girls ages 7 to 15. More than 50,000 golfers entered qualifying events nationwide, with only a select group advancing to the finals at Augusta National.
Grigsby said reaching golf’s most famous final stage took discipline and a demanding routine that blends academics with athletics.
“I get up around 6:25 to go to school,” Grigsby said. “Then after school, if the weather’s nice, I come to practice golf. Sometimes I go to basketball practice after golfing. It’s really school, sports, and doing it all over again.”
His father, Mark Grigsby, said the family has watched years of hard work shape Andrew’s growth in the sport.
“It’s been awesome watching him grow within the sport of golf,” he said. “Watching him dedicate so much time, struggle at times, and also succeed through those struggles.”
The national finals featured 80 boys and girls ages 7 to 15 competing for eight national titles. Grigsby competed in the 12‑13 age division on Augusta National’s 18th hole.
He said the opportunity itself was unforgettable.
“I was super excited to have the chance to play there,” Grigsby said. “It was really cool knowing you’re going to Augusta National and competing against some of the best players in your age group in the country.”
After advancing through multiple qualifying rounds, Grigsby finished eighth in the nation in his division.
While the Augusta experience marked a major milestone, Grigsby said he remains focused on bigger goals. He hopes to earn a PGA Tour card and compete professionally one day. If not, he plans to pursue a career in orthodontics while continuing to play golf.
For now, he is back in Morgantown, balancing homework, practice and the next goal down the fairway.
This article was adapted from a television news story using AI. All reporting, facts, and quotes from sources are original. AI was only used to assist with formatting and style for a digital platform.