Resort’s vibrant short-course gathering raises funds to help the next generation access golf
PINEHURST, N.C. – Few places at Pinehurst bring people together quite like The Cradle, especially when the Cradle Knockout is in full swing.
On any Cradle Knockout night, juniors, parents, resort guests, community residents, and golfers of all skill levels gather around the short course for an evening of competition, laughter, and community. In the elimination-style contest, players test their skills in a fast-paced single-shot format until only a winner remains. It’s golf at its most approachable and most social.
That spirit is one reason Pinehurst Resort has named Youth on Course as the charitable beneficiary of the 2026 Cradle Knockout series.
The announcement was made during October’s Cradle Knockout event, which included participation from Youth on Course members and representatives. The series will present a donation later this fall in support of Youth on Course’s mission to make golf more affordable and accessible for young people.
“The Cradle is golf at its best. It brings people together and breaks down barriers that keep people from the game. Using a fun community event like the Cradle Knockout to support Youth on Course makes perfect sense,” says Tom Pashley, President of Pinehurst Resort.
Pinehurst’s relationship with Youth on Course dates back to 2018. Since then, Youth on Course members have played thousands of rounds across Pinehurst courses, creating meaningful opportunities for juniors and families to experience golf at the Cradle of American Golf. In 2026 alone, Youth on Course members have played more than 2,300 rounds at Pinehurst, bringing the lifetime total to more than 15,000 rounds since the partnership began.
“The Cradle Knockout is everything we love about golf: kids, parents and lifelong golfers sharing the same tee, cheering each other on,” said Adam Heieck, Youth on Course CEO. “We’re grateful to Pinehurst Resort and the Carolinas Golf Association, whose support over the years has welcomed thousands of youth into golf. This donation will continue to fuel our mission, helping more kids play for $5 or less. That affordable access opens the doors to the friendships, mentors and opportunities that can positively impact a young person’s life.”
The announcement comes just days after Pinehurst hosted the Carolinas Golf Association’s 100-Hole Hike on The Cradle, a fundraising event benefiting Youth on Course and its mission of expanding access to the game.
“Pinehurst is a tremendous partner in our mission to grow the game,” said Andy Priest, Carolinas Golf Association Executive Director. “Their continued support through events like this directly fuels our ability to remove financial barriers and create opportunities for kids across the Carolinas.”
Together, the Cradle Knockout and the recent 100-Hole Hike highlight a shared commitment among Pinehurst, Youth on Course and the Carolinas Golf Association to creating more opportunities for young people to experience the game. As Pinehurst continues its support of Youth on Course, both organizations remain focused on ensuring the next generation can discover golf’s community, lessons, and lifelong enjoyment.