For an eight-year-old, Canon Mullen has an impressive collection of trophies and medals, but earning an invite to Augusta National Golf Club and the 2018 Masters would be extra special.
Mullen’s road to the Augusta National Golf Club began in early June, when he placed in the top three of his age group at the Drive, Chip, and Putt local qualifier hosted at The Landing at Reynolds Lake Oconee. This advancement presented Canon with the opportunity to compete in the sub-regional qualifier of the National Drive, Chip and Putt Championships at The Landings Club in Savannah, GA.
Along side six junior golfers from Reynolds, including four in the girls division – Kallyn Black, Lilly Kent Rainey, Kelli Scheck and Jane Monachello – and two in the boys division –Collin Garofalo and Max DuPree – Canon prevailed, finishing second overall in his age group with a total score of 92, just a few points shy of the qualifier’s winning score.
“His combination of athleticism and dedication resulted in him being able to advance this far,” says Jose Lopez, PGA Professional at Reynolds and the coach of Canon. “Canon has taken the Georgia junior circuit by storm this year. It’s not only a thrill to watch him exceed, but it’s an honor to help him achieve his dreams.”
What’s next stop for young Mullen? The Regional qualifier on September 16th at the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. If Mullen is successful, then he will advance to the Championship Finals, which will be hosted at the 2018 Masters tournament at Augusta National.
