FAQ
Q: What is Mutual of Omaha and why does it sponsor the Drive, Chip & Putt series?
A: Mutual of Omaha is a nationally known and respected insurance and financial services company that was founded in 1909. Family-oriented sponsorships and activities have been a hallmark for the company. Along with Drive, Chip & Putt, the company sponsors six pro golfers including long-time successful PGA Tour veteran Fred Funk and LPGA star Cristie Kerr, the Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom television episodes, the Wild Kingdom Adventure Tour and USA Swimming.
Q: How do you sign up for a Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt event?
A: There are three different options to sign-up for an event. The first way can be accessed right here on the Golf Channel's Drive, Chip & Putt page. Just click on the upcoming events icon on the main page and follow the directions. The second method is to fill out a registration form at the host golf course in your area. Finally, interested participants can also sign up by contacting your local cable provider.
Q: I tried registering online, but it won't let me. What do I do?
A:.Online registration opens 6 weeks from the event date. Online registration closes 24 hours prior to the event. If you have trouble signing up online, don't worry. You are welcome to register on event day, at the golf course.
Q: How much does it cost to participate in the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt?
A: The events are free. There is no cost to participate in Drive, Chip & Putt.
Q: What time do competitors need to be at the event in order to participate?
A: Show up early if you’d like to warm up, however keep in mind that all competitive areas will be closed for the event. The event begins at the time that’s advertised.
Q: What is the age requirement to participate in Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt?
A: Any boy or girl between the ages of 7 and 14 can participate in the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt. Prizes will be awarded for individual skills as well as for the best overall score in four age groups: (7-8, 9-10, 11-12 and 13-14).
Q: In which age division will my child participate if he or she is a year younger in age during the local event and qualifies to compete in the regional championship, yet celebrates a birthday and turns an older age between the time of the local and the regional competitions?
A: If a child qualifies to compete at the regional championship, he or she will participate in the same age category he or she qualified during the local event. For example, if Erin Fitzsimmons is eight-years old on the day of the event, she will be placed in the 7-8 year-old age group during the local competition. If Erin then qualifies to compete in the regional championship and turns nine-years old between the date of the local competition and the regional championship, she will still participate at the age of qualifying during the local event.
Q: How many kids participate in the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip and Putt events?
A: There are usually between 200 and 250 kids participating during each event.
Q: Can you bring your own golf clubs?
A: Yes, you may use your own golf clubs. However, if you do not own golf clubs or do not choose to use your own, clubs will be provided to use only during the competition portion of the event.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: The event can continue during rainy conditions. However, if weather worsens or becomes dangerous (e.g. lightning, hail, ice, etc.), play will be modified and a shortened version of the event will occur. If weather is too severe, the event may be canceled entirely. Due to a very demanding event schedule, there will be no make-up dates.
Q: What do participants win?
A: During each local qualifying event, the top-five finishers in each skill, in each age group (7-8, 9-10, 11-12 and 13-14) will receive awards. The first, second, and third place overall finishers from each age group will be awarded trophies and will be invited to the Regional Championship. During each regional championship event, first, second and third place finishers will receive a plaque. The first-place finishers from each age-group at Regionals will earn an opportunity to compete in the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt National Championship in Orlando in the fall. The top players in each age group of the National Championship event will be awarded the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt National Champion trophy.
More important than awards, the mission of Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip and Putt is to teach kids about the game of golf and ensure that all participants have a great time!
Q: Is one child allowed to register for more than one Drive, Chip and Putt event?
A: You can register for as many local events as you want.
Q: What are the rules and scoring for Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt?
A: For the answer to this question please refer to the Rules Page.
Q: Why did you change the rules of the driving station?
A:.To speed the event day and create a more enjoyable atmosphere for all.
Q: Where will the Mutual of Omaha Drive, Chip & Putt National Championship take place?
A: This year's event will take place in the fall in Orlando, Fla. – the home of Golf Channel.
