The Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals on April 7th, prior to the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, featured our very own John Guerra in the Boys 12-13 Division. John qualified with 130 points at a local qualifier at The Legends Country Club, 124 points at a Sub-Regional at Fox Run Golf Club and then tallied 132 points at a Regional Qualifier at Bellerive Country Club, the host of the 100th PGA Championship. John is the sixth Gateway PGA representative at the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals; Brooke Biermann (2018), Momo Kikuchi (2017), Quinn Thomas (2017), Siena Minor (2016) & Chase Venn (2016).
Q&A with John Guerra prior to the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals…
Q: What is the most exciting thing, for you, about competing in the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals?
A: I am excited to drive down Magnolia Lane and putt on the 18th green at Augusta National just like the pros.
What was your reaction to punching your ticket to the Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals?
We were excited, it took a little while to sink in. It was really cool to win in my home town where I just watched the 100th PGA Championship take place.
What age did you begin playing golf?
I started playing golf in kindergarten when I was 5 years old.
What’s your favorite golf memory?
My personal favorite golf memory is playing golf with Patrick Martin of Vanderbilt at Ross Bridge in Hoover, AL in the summer of 2017. My favorite golf memory as a fan was watching Tiger Woods birdie 18 on Sunday at the 100th PGA at Bellerive live from the grandstands with my dad.
How often do you play/practice?
During the summer, I play almost everyday with my friends—Tyler, Nick and Spencer. During the school year, I try to practice at least twice a week and play whenever the weather is nice.
Have you worked with any Gateway PGA professionals?
My first instructor was Brandon Smith, PGA professional of Old Warson Country Club. I am currently working with Bryan McMurray PGA professional of Boone Valley Golf Club.
What goals do you have for your golf game?
My short term goals are to continue to get better and have fun.
Who are your golf heroes?
Dustin Johnson and Tiger Woods