Addie demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill across the three-day event, carding rounds of 77, 72, and 75 to finish 8 over par. Her performance was a testament to her dedication and prowess on the course, earning her recognition among the elite young golfers from around the globe.
The U.S. Kids Golf World Championships, held annually in the Pinehurst area, is the world’s largest junior golf tournament. It welcomes golfers ages 5-12 to compete on championship courses, providing a platform for the next generation of golf stars to shine. The event is a celebration of junior golf, featuring a Parade of Nations, a Parent-Child Tournament, Trackman Demo Days, three rounds of championship play, and a Closing Ceremony.
Addie’s golfing journey began in the summer of 2021, inspired by her father, Shannon Lupton, a passionate golfer. Despite not being a professional, Shannon’s love for the sport ignited Addie’s interest. Her parents, Shannon and Angie Lupton, have been unwavering in their support, fostering her development and love for the game.
In the summer of 2022, Addie was named the Wisconsin Junior Golf Foundation Future Tour Girls 11 & Under Player of the Year. Remarkably, while the top 2-10 girls on the list have graduation years of 2028 or 2029, Addie will graduate in 2031, highlighting her advanced skills and potential.
One of Addie’s most significant accomplishments came in April 2023 when she competed at Augusta National in the Drive, Chip, and Putt competition. To reach this prestigious event, she had to qualify through a series of local, sub-regional, and regional events, ultimately being one of only 80 golfers, aged 7-15, to compete. Addie placed 8th in the girls’ 7-9 age division, a notable achievement that underscores her talent and determination.
Throughout her young career, Addie has amassed an impressive list of achievements:
- Fall 2023: US Kids Charlotte Local Tour Girls 9-10 Tour Champion
- Winter 2023: US Kids Pinehurst Local Tour Girls 9-10 Tour Champion
- Spring 2024: US Kids Columbia Local Tour Girls 9-10 Tour Champion
- March 2024: US Kids Jekyll Island Cup Girls 10 – 4th Place
- May 2024: US Kids Carolinas State Runner-Up
- July 2024: US Kids Red, White, and Blue Invitational Girls 10 – 3rd Place
- July 2024: Peggy Kirk Bell Kentucky Regional Championship – 1st Place
Addie’s victory at the Peggy Kirk Bell Kentucky Regional Championship has qualified her to participate in the Notah Begay III National Championship in November, which will air on the Golf Channel, making her a national finalist in the Notah Begay III series.
Addie’s participation in the U.S. Kids Golf World Championships not only highlights her talent but also brings pride to the Tega Cay community. As she continues to hone her skills and compete at higher levels, her journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere.
With a bright future ahead, Addie Lupton is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of golf. Her performance at the U.S. Kids Golf World Championships marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful career in the sport.
