Fox Chapel freshman showing skills in Drive, Chip & Putt competition

By: Josh Rizzo
Saturday, August 31, 2024 | 11:01 AM

London Bitar learned that the regional qualifiers of the Drive, Chip & Putt competition were a step up in pomp and circumstance from the circuit she fought through to get there. When Bitar reached that level a few years ago, she was battling many distractions.

When the Fox Chapel freshman competes in the event again this year in the 14-15 age division on Sept. 21 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, she won’t be as caught up in the goings-on.

The regional qualifier winners in each age group will advance to the national finals at Augusta National.

“I don’t want to get too worked up,” Bitar said. “I saw a camera guy and thought everything was getting broadcast. I just want to focus on golf.”

Bitar is accustomed to always having golf on her mind. Her older brother, Scott, played golf at Miami (Ohio). All four siblings play golf, and she competes with her twin brother.

Bitar’s parents also have a spot inside the house where everyone can practice. A net is set up to hit the ball and a mirror to help monitor their swings.

Bitar also belongs to the Fox Chapel Golf Club, where she regularly practices.

“Having my brother to help me with my swing has been really helpful,” Bitar said.

Bitar said she got into the Drive, Chip & Putt competition because her older siblings did it as well. While Bitar said she is best at the chipping part of the competition, her putting helped carry her through the subregional qualifier at Nemacolin.

Bitar scored 105 points to outlast Venetia’s Betty Glyptis by 12 points to win the competition. Sixty-five of Bitar’s points came from putting, 32 from chipping and nine from driving.

Bitar said that she has been working on the best method to continue practicing her skills.

“There’s an area I got where I drive where I try to hit the ball between two flags,” Bitar said. “My dad will help me set up different measurements, and I will keep putting until I hit that distance.”

Bitar would like all her skills to add up to a trip to Georgia.

She’s never been to the course famous for hosting the Masters. Competing in the Drive, Chip & Putt competition has been fun for her over the past five years.

“I see a lot of girls from around the area and have great competition,” Bitar said. “You have to be consistent and precise.”

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