Itty Bitty Open youth event is Jan. 14 in Chandler
Posted
In its 35th year, the Junior Golf Association of Arizona hosts the 2023 Itty Bitty Open on Saturday, Jan. 14, at Espee Park in Chandler and 20 other locations in the Valley.
This beginners' youth golf event is presented free of charge for all children ages 3 to 5.
The event offers golf clinics — three per location at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Young golfers and their parents learn basics skills taught by qualified PGA and LPGA professionals.
Children then participate in fun-filled, non-competitive golf games and tournaments. Each golfer receives a set of plastic golf clubs (right-handed only), balls, a bag, and a visor. Participants are asked to leave their own clubs at home.
An adult “caddie” must accompany each golfer.
“For 35 years, the Itty Bitty Open is a great way for parents to introduce their children to the game of golf,” said Scott McNevin, executive director of the JGAA. “In fact, adults who attended decades ago are now bringing their kids, so the second generation is already here.”
A special contest with prizes will be held at each session for the “best-dressed golfer and caddie team.”
Anything goes as far as clothing: classic golf fashion; contemporary golf fashion; or any unique golf duds that may come to mind. All winners will receive a congratulatory letter, a trophy, and two tickets for the R.S. Hoyt, Jr. Dream Day Activities at the 2023 Waste Management Phoenix Open (kids are already allowed to attend it at no charge, so the tickets are for parents or other adults).
Register online here. Space is limited. Sign up before Monday, Jan. 9. RSVP to 602-944-6168 or visit JGAA.org and click on "Itty Bitty Open" to learn more.
The Junior Golf Association of Arizona is a 501(c)(3) organization with the mission to educate, motivate and inspire Arizona’s youth through golf and all of the valuable lessons and life skills inherent to the game.
2023 Itty Bitty Open Locations
Avondale: Friendship Park, 12325 W McDowell Rd, Avondale
Chandler: Espee Park, 450 E. Knox Road
Gilbert: McQueen Park, 510 N Horne St, Gilbert
Glendale: Legend at Arrowhead Golf Club, 21027 North 67th Ave, Glendale
Goodyear: Falcon Park, 15050 W Indian School Rd, Goodyear
Maricopa: Copper Sky Multigenerational Center, 44345 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Maricopa
Mesa: Jefferson Park, 306 S Jefferson Ave, Mesa
Peoria: Rio Vista Community Center, 8866 W Thunderbird Rd, Peoria
Phoenix
Beuf Community Center, 3435 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix
Cashman Park, 22222 N 44th Pl, Phoenix
Deer Valley Park, 19602 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix
Desert West Sports Complex, 6602 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix
El Reposo Park, 502 E Alta Vista Rd, Phoenix
Los Olivos Park, 2802 E Devonshire Ave, Phoenix
Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 W Culver St, Phoenix
Pecos Park, 17010 S 48th St, Phoenix
Rose Mofford Sports Complex, 9833 N 25th Ave, Phoenix
Verde Park, 916 E Van Buren St, Phoenix
Scottsdale: Scottsdale Ranch Park, 10400 E Via Linda, Scottsdale
Surprise: Surprise Stadium, 15930 N Bullard Ave, Surprise