Vilardi Finishes Second in Nation

HOPEWELL JUNCTION – Fourth-grade student Mario Vilardi, age 10, of Fishkill Plains Elementary School, has achieved an extraordinary milestone in junior golf, earning a finalist position and finishing 2nd overall at the 2026 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals.

The prestigious competition, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, begins with thousands of young golfers across the country competing in local and regional qualifiers. Only 80 finalists nationwide-just 10 boys and 10 girls in each age division-advance to the national stage, making it one of the most selective and respected youth golf events in the United States.

Competing in the Boys 10-11 division, Mario delivered an outstanding performance broadcast live on the Golf Channel. He finished 2nd overall-just one point shy of the national title-and secured 1st place in the chipping category, demonstrating exceptional precision and skill around the green.

The National Finals take place the Sunday before The Masters Tournament, giving participants the rare opportunity to compete on one of the most iconic courses in the world alongside some of golf’s biggest names.

Mario’s accomplishment reflects his dedication, talent, and hard work, and marks an incredible achievement on a national stage.