Janet Lin partners with Smile Xuto launch the AJGA Charity Classic

The 2026 AJGA Charity Classic also serves as a qualifier for two prestigious AJGA open junior championships:

• AP Invitational Junior presented by Ninja2026 AJGA SSEF Junior Championship

The AP Invitational Junior, hosted by Janet Lin, will be held from July 20–24, 2026 at the renowned Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida. The AJGA SSEF Junior Championship, hosted by The Spin Sports Education Fund, will take place from July 27–30, 2026 at The Ridge Golf Course in Auburn, California. Top performers at the AJGA Charity Classic will earn entry into these premier tournaments.“For me, partnering with Smile and The Spin Sports Education Fund to create the AJGA Charity Classic is about building a bridge,” said Lin, an 11-year LPGA veteran, three-time Olympic representative, and Olympic medalist. “I hope more young golfers in China will have the opportunity to step onto bigger stages—especially within the U.S. junior golf system—where they can be seen, recognized, and gain greater opportunities for their future. This event is about helping them take that first step.”Smile Xu, founder of Miles Group and The Spin Sports Education Fund, added: “Janet Lin is not only a top athlete I deeply admire but also a close friend. Through this collaboration, we aim to deliver a world-class tournament experience for junior players, held to professional standards. Special thanks to Mr. Ling of Enhance Anting Golf Club for his generous support, which allows us to waive green fees for participating juniors.”Olive Lee, Chairlady of The Spin Sports Education Fund, commented:“We are delighted to partner with the CJ Wang Foundation, as we share the same mission—supporting youth in pursuing their dreams and reaching higher levels. Through this collaboration, we aim to expand participation and visibility, and we welcome more partners to join us in supporting youth development.”The AJGA Charity Classic will be operated to professional tournament standards at Enhance Anting Golf Club, a venue with a history of hosting major professional events.Mr. Ozzie Ling, Executive Director of the club, stated:“After hosting the 2025 China Men’s and Women’s National Opens, we reflected on what a truly great championship course should contribute to the sport. For us, the answer is clear: not only delivering top-tier events, but also creating lasting value for golf’s future. That future begins with the younger generation. Our partnership with the AJGA Charity Classic reflects our long-term vision—investing in junior golf and growing the game.”Cheng Jin, a top Chinese professional golfer, former USC standout, and 2015 Asia-Pacific Amateur Champion, is deeply involved in tournament operations. He commented:“It’s great to see a platform in China where junior players can earn AJGA playing rights at home. This event creates a viable pathway for juniors in the region to compete against top players from around the world, which is highly meaningful.”

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