‘Lightning fast’: At just 12, this Ontario golfer stepped onto one of golf’s biggest stages

12-year-old Audrey from Woodbridge recounts her experience competing in the Drive, Chip, Putt challenge at Augusta National.

For 12-year-old Audrey Lu, stepping onto Augusta National’s famed greens was as challenging as it was unforgettable.

“It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, being able to hit a putt on the 18th hole at Augusta, and the course is in great shape,” the Woodbridge, Ont., native said during an interview with CP24 Breakfast.

Lu competed this week in the Girls 12–13 division at the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, a nationwide junior development competition run by the Masters Tournament Foundation, PGA of America and the U.S. Golf Association (USGA). Finalists advance through multiple qualifying stages for a chance to perform on golf’s biggest stage during Masters week.

While Augusta is known for its beauty, Lu said it was the speed of the greens that stood out most.

“I would definitely say the greens are really, really fast. I definitely had an experience on the 18th hole. The greens are lightning fast, and the course is just so beautiful,” she said.

She also had a chance to take in the course ahead of the competition.

“I went to the practice round on Monday with my friends, and I walked the course. Everything is so nice there.”

In a media release, Golf Canada said Lu “showed flashes of the putting confidence that helped her reach Augusta,” holding her own against an elite field.

While none of the four Canadian competitors reached the podium, all left with what the organization described as valuable experience and confidence.

Practice, routine and a bigger goal

Behind the Augusta appearance is a rigorous routine, Lu explains.

“On the weekdays, I actually practice every day. So after school, I go to my academy, it’s from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m... I practice for three hours every day.”

On weekends, she shifts to on-course play.

“And then the weekends, I go to my home course, the Thornhill Club, and I play usually around 18 holes to just get swings out and enjoy golf.”

Lu said her putting routine centres on reading the green and visualizing the shot.

“I have a pre-shot routine, so first I would go behind the ball, and then I would look at the slope… And usually I would just line up the ball to the hole.”

Her long-term goal is already set.

“I really hope that next time I see Augusta National, it’s in the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Super excited.”

Local season tees off in Toronto

Lu’s rise comes as golf participation continues to grow across Toronto.

The city officially opened its five public courses Friday — Dentonia Park, Don Valley, Humber Valley, Scarlett Woods and Tam O’Shanter — marking the start of the 2026 season.

City data shows roughly 250,000 rounds were played in 2025, a record high, with more than 15,000 rounds by junior members alone.

Officials say expanded programming this year includes free clinics, youth camps and discounted green fees aimed at making the sport more accessible.