Daily BriefSeptember 23, 2026

Juniors

Ward, Spector Earn First AJGA Wins at NW Arkansas Junior in Bella Vista

Jonathan Ward of Waukee, Iowa, posted three rounds in the 60s to finish at 7-under 209 and win the boys division at the AJGA NW Arkansas Junior at Highlands Golf Course in Bella Vista, Ark. Anson Munzlinger and Reed Higgins tied for second at 6-under. On the girls side, Molly Spector of Atlanta ran away with the title at 5-under 211, finishing six shots clear of runners-up Gabriella Gu and Lois Lee. Both champions earned their first career AJGA victories.

Mid-Am

U.S. Mid-Amateur Draws Record 6,124 Entries as Sand Valley Debut Nears Saturday

The 45th U.S. Mid-Amateur drew a record 6,124 entries for the 264-player field teeing it up Saturday at Sand Valley Resort in Nekoosa, Wis. Two rounds of stroke play on The Lido and Sand Valley will trim the field to the low 64 for match play beginning Sept. 28, with the 36-hole final on Oct. 1. Defending champion Brandon Holtz returns after his win at Troon Country Club last fall. The winner earns an exemption into the 2027 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach and a likely invitation to the 2027 Masters.