Charlie Woods Takes on Pre-Qualifier for PGA Tour’s Cognizant Classic
In a striking move that has the golf world abuzz, Charlie Woods, the 15-year-old progeny of golf legend Tiger Woods, is set to embark on his journey towards securing a spot in a PGA Tour event, setting his sights on the upcoming Cognizant Classic. The young Woods will tee off this Thursday at the Lost Lake Golf Club in Hobe Sound, Florida, which serves as one of the four gateways for hopefuls aiming to make it to the preeminent golf stage through pre-qualifying rounds.
This week’s competition is just the beginning for Charlie, as he aims to be among the top 25 players and ties at his site, which would catapult him into the final qualifying showdown on Monday. Success there would see him join the elite ranks at the Cognizant Classic, set against the scenic backdrop of PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, from February 29 to March 3.
Should he advance to the Cognizant Classic, previously known as the Honda Classic, Charlie would not only make his PGA Tour debut but also set a new benchmark by doing so at a younger age than his father, Tiger Woods, who made his first tour start at 16. Charlie’s journey in golf, although in its early stages, has already seen him share the spotlight with his father in four PNC Championships, achieve a notable finish at the Notah Begay III Junior Golf National Championship, and contribute to his high school team’s state championship victory.
Joining Charlie in the quest for qualification are Cameron Kuchar, the 17-year-old son of PGA Tour veteran Matt Kuchar, and Austin Lemieux, the 27-year-old offspring of hockey icon Mario Lemieux. The 2024 Cognizant Classic promises to be a high-stakes affair with a $9 million purse and a winner’s share of $1.62 million, drawing commitments from golf luminaries like Rory McIlroy, Tom Kim, and Shane Lowry, alongside defending champion Chris Kirk.