Junior classic tees up China’s young golf talent for future success

Li Jiahang finished runner-up at 211, while second-round leader Lu Suying claimed third place with a total of 213.

Girls’ winner Jiang Yuyuan, runner-up Li Jiahang and boys’ contender Zhang Chenhan earned exemptions into the AP Invitational Junior presented by Ninja, an AJGA tournament which will be hosted by Lin, an LPGA Tour contender, from July 20-24 at the Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Florida.

Three other outstanding boys — Wang Dibo, Zheng Luorui and Xu Yanqiao — received invitations to compete in the 2026 AJGA SSEF Junior Championship, organized by THE SPIN Sports Education Foundation,which takes place from July 27-30 at The Ridge Golf Course in California.

These opportunities represent important pathways for talented young players seeking to further their development through international competition.

To better support the long-term growth of junior golfers, the 2026 Junior Charity Classic also introduced several innovative initiatives that extend well beyond the fairway, such as elite-level instruction provided by accomplished pros, including co-founder Lin, 2016 US Masters entry Jin Cheng and Asian Tour regular Isaac Lam of Hong Kong, China.

After the first round, the professionals worked directly with juniors on the driving range and practice greens, offering hands-on guidance covering distance, accuracy, iron play, shot shaping, chipping and putting.

The final round also featured professional-level broadcasting that elevated the junior tournament’s exposure. A dedicated on-site broadcast studio was established, featuring commentary from Ai Ke, editor-in-chief of Golf Digest China, alongside action film star and golfer Ashton Chen, better known as Shi Xiaolong.

Organizers of the tournament also hosted a special forum titled “The Road Ahead: Future Pathways for Junior Golfers”, where co-founder Xu, pro golfers Jin Cheng, Feng Simin and Jin Bo shared insights with juniors and their parents on topics including college admission, NCAA recruitment, scholarship opportunities and academic and athletic planning.

Reflecting on the tournament’s successful debut, co-founder Lin emphasized the long-term vision of the mission.

“The Junior Charity Classic was created to provide young golfers in China with a high-level platform where they can compete, learn from one another and enjoy the game,” said Lin, known as Janet by her international fans.

“Establishing a long-term partnership with Enhance Anting Golf Club will help ensure the healthy and sustainable growth of the championship for years to come,” said the three-time Olympian, who’s posted nearly 30 top-10 finishes on the LPGA Tour since making her debut on the premier women’s circuit in 2014.