The stage is officially set at El Dorado Park Golf Course now that the grueling qualifying round of the 2026 Long Beach Golf Festival is in the books. After 18 holes of highly competitive stroke play, the top 64 players have earned their place in the brackets, advancing to the head-to-head match play phase of one of Southern California's most storied amateur competitions.
Lee Grabs Medalist Honors
Leading the charge into the weekend was Enzo Lee, who turned in a spectacular performance. Lee carded an impressive 5-under par 67 to claim solo medalist honors. His dominant opening round set a blistering pace in a field that was otherwise locked in a tight, multi-player leaderboard battle.
He didn't outrun the field by much, however, as a highly talented chasing pack kept the pressure on:
-
Ramiz Jamal secured the solo second spot with a steady 2-under par 70.
-
A dangerous four-way tie at 1-under par 71 includes Michael Padilla, Jonathan Saunders, Ralph Duarte, and Alex Lee, underscoring the deep field of talent moving on to the brackets.
From there, the leaderboard became an absolute logjam. A massive portion of the field finished clustered within just a few strokes of the cut line, with several players successfully squeezing into the top 64 at even par or just over. On a day like today, every single putt mattered.
The Format That Changes Everything
Now, the strategy completely shifts as the tournament transitions into Match Play.
Unlike standard stroke play—where players protect a cumulative score over 18 holes—match play brings golfers head-to-head, turning every single hole into its own isolated battle.
Total scores go out the window. Momentum, composure, and timing become the only metrics that matter, and a single hole can completely swing a match.
With the field officially cut down to the final 64, the Long Beach Golf Festival enters its most dynamic, high-stakes, and unpredictable phase. It is a true test of mental toughness, where underdogs can catch fire and anyone can be sent packing at any moment.
Stay Tuned to the Action
Green Side News and LBGN.com were on the ground at El Dorado Park throughout the entire qualifying round. We will continue to bring you live coverage, bracket updates, highlight reels, and the player stories that define this historic local championship.
Check back daily for updated brackets and tee times as the field narrows down to the ultimate champion.