Wind, Championship Courses, and Elite Competition Mark the Start of FCG’s 20th Season
The 2026 season officially got underway as Future Champions Golf opened its 20th season with a highly competitive season opener contested over two championship-caliber golf courses and played in difficult, windy conditions on both days.
From the College Prep divisions to the rising 13–14 age groups, players were tested by persistent wind, firm fairways, and demanding green complexes, creating a true championship environment where patience, course management, and mental toughness were at a premium. Scores reflected the challenge, and the event served as an excellent early-season measuring stick for junior golfers beginning their 2026 campaigns.
The Champion of each age division qualifies for the 2026 FCG Callaway World Junior Golf Championship! Check out the qualifying information updated earlier today.
Additionally this is week 1 of the new Odyssey Putters for College Prep Girls and Boys Champions! – Read Press Release
AJGA PBE Approved Boys & Girls for this Event
| Division | Placement | Stars |
|---|---|---|
| Boys College Prep | Champion | 4 |
| Top 10% | 1 | |
| Girls College Prep | Champion | 4 |
| Top 10% | 1 |
Boys College Prep Division
Charlie Eifrig (2027) – Newport Beach, CA captured the Boys College Prep title with a two-round total of -2 (142). After opening with a steady 72, Eifrig closed with a composed 2-under-par 70, separating himself in conditions where pars were valuable.
Tied for second at -1 (143) were Aidan Chroman (2027) of Valencia, CA, and Tyson Valk (2028) of North Vancouver, BC, each carding rounds of 72–71 and keeping pressure on the lead throughout the championship.
Girls College Prep Division
The Girls College Prep Division delivered one of the most compelling finishes of the event.
Joy Gan (2027) – Indian Wells, CA earned the victory at +1 (145), rebounding from an opening-round 75 with an outstanding 2-under-par 70 in the final round—one of the best rounds of the tournament given the conditions.
Tied for second at +2 (146) were Joanna Shin (2031) of Yorba Linda, CA, who posted rounds of 76–70, and Lindsay Shin (2027) of Fullerton, CA, who opened with a brilliant 5-under-par 67 before battling through the wind on day two. Their contrasting scorecards highlighted the difficulty of the setup and the premium placed on adaptability.
Boys 13–14 Division
The Boys 13–14 Division faced a demanding test, with steady winds challenging consistency across both rounds.
Kingsley Gao (2032) – Lake Forest, CA claimed the title at +6 (150), opening with an impressive even-par 72 before holding on with solid play in the final round.
Second place went to Charlie Guo (2031) of Irvine, CA at +9 (153), while Jack Zucker (2030) of Los Angeles, CA finished third at +10 (154), highlighted by a strong second-round 75 as conditions intensified.
Girls 13–14 Division
The Girls 13–14 Division showcased resilience and growth under championship conditions.
Alice Okuri (2031) – San Diego, CA captured the division title with rounds of 77–75, finishing at +8 (152) and separating herself with consistent play across both days.
Olivia (Jing Yuan) Li (2030) of Vancouver, BC finished second at +19 (163), while Rachael Myung (2032) of Irvine, CA placed third at +24 (168), gaining valuable experience in a challenging early-season event.
Championship Courses & Conditions
Across all divisions, players navigated:
- Strong, shifting winds both days
- Wet conditions from previous rain storms
- Two distinct course layouts requiring adaptability and strategic decision-making
The conditions elevated the competition and rewarded players who stayed patient, committed to smart targets, and managed their emotions under pressure.
Founder’s Perspective
“This event was a perfect way to begin our 20th season,” said Chris Smeal, Founder of Future Champions Golf.
“The conditions were tough, the competition was strong, and that’s exactly what we want for our players. Over the past 20 years, FCG has been about preparing junior golfers for what’s next—college golf, professional opportunities, and life beyond the game. The talent we saw this weekend and the way these players competed has us incredibly excited for what’s ahead in 2026.”
What’s Next: A Global Weekend of Competition
Momentum continues immediately as Future Champions Golf heads into another action-packed weekend with tournaments taking place across the globe, including:
- Southern California
- Northern California
- New Zealand
- Indonesia
With events happening simultaneously on multiple continents, the 20th season of FCG is off to a fast, international start—setting the tone for a year filled with elite competition, global opportunities, and meaningful pathways for junior golfers worldwide.