Close House will once again take centre stage in junior golf in 2026 as it hosts both a qualifying event and the grand final of the PING Junior Masters.
The award winning Northumberland club, recently recognised as Junior Golf Programme of the Year, continues its long standing commitment to creating meaningful competitive opportunities for aspiring golfers.
The 2026 series is set to eclipse previous years. It will feature nine qualifying events across seven counties before culminating in a full tour experience final on Close House’s Championship Colt Course on 27 October 2026.
Each qualifying event will be played off nett scores. This ensures accessibility and gives a broader range of junior golfers the opportunity to progress to the grand final.
From every venue, two boys and one girl from the Under 12, Under 15 and Under 18 categories will earn their place in the final. The result will be a diverse and inclusive field representing clubs nationwide.
Backed by PING Europe and Lee Westwood
Originally launched in 2017 alongside the British Masters at Close House, the PING Junior Masters has grown into one of the UK’s most exciting and accessible junior series.
Backed by PING Europe and supported by former Ryder Cup star and Close House Attached Tour Professional Lee Westwood, the event offers young golfers a taste of elite competition in a professional tournament setting.
“Since we launched the Junior Masters in 2017 alongside the British Masters at Close House the programme has gone from strength to strength,” said Westwood.
“I am immensely proud of how it has evolved, providing young golfers the chance to compete at some fantastic courses across the UK whilst gaining invaluable competitive experience. Congratulations PING and Close House for the award winning initiative.”
“The Junior Masters is a cornerstone of our junior pathway,” said Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Close House.
“It provides a competitive platform for talented young players while also supporting our wider grassroots initiatives. Our goal is not only to host great tournaments but to help create long term engagement with the sport.”
Dave Fanning, European Marketing Director at PING Europe, added: “The Junior Masters perfectly reflects what junior golf should be about, opportunity, development and enjoyment.
“We’re proud to support a series that continues to grow and create memorable experiences for young golfers.”
Grassroots impact beyond competition
Beyond competition, the initiative continues to have a significant community impact.
Through the Junior Masters programme, the Close House PGA Teaching Team delivers free coaching to more than 1,000 schoolchildren annually. The aim is to introduce golf to new audiences and strengthen the sport at grassroots level.
The PING Junior Masters Final will take place at Close House on 28 October 2026.
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