Akie Iwai Leads LOTTE Championship Against the Wind
HONOLULU – Akie Iwai demonstrated her composure against strong gusts of wind on Friday at the Hoakalei Country Club, securing the lead in the third round of the LOTTE Championship. With a solid performance, the Japanese golfer is positioned as the favorite, while the competition remains fierce. Iwai, 23 years old, who already tasted victory at the Portland Classic in August, achieving her first title on the LPGA Tour, completed the day with a score of 71 strokes, one under par. This led her to a total of 203 strokes, 13 under par, demonstrating her ability to adapt to the difficult course conditions.The leader of the second round, Youmin Hwang, couldn’t maintain her streak, delivering a card of 75 strokes after her impressive 62 on Thursday, falling into a tie for second place. In the same position are Minami Katsu, Hyo Joo Kim, Megan Khang, Peiyun Chien, Brooke Matthews, Pornanong Phatlum, and Jessica Porvasnik.I don’t change. I just keep moving forward. Smile and have fun.
Akie Iwai
Nelly Korda, ranked second, achieved a birdie on the 18th hole, finishing with 69 strokes and a total of 11 under par. Iwai remained steady after a bogey on the 12th hole, achieving an impressive “up-and-down” on the 13th hole, marking the beginning of six consecutive pars. Although he couldn’t extend his lead on the 18th hole, he demonstrated his determination.I’m sure there will be a lot of wind tomorrow too. Hopefully, I’ll just try to be patient.
Minami Katsu
In the 13th hole, Iwai avoided a second consecutive bogey, showing his ability to recover. He has demonstrated great consistency, hitting 46 of 54 greens in regulation in the three days.I will forget what happened today and prepare for tomorrow.
Akie Iwai
Iwai began the tournament with a round of 64 strokes on Wednesday, securing the lead, and then recorded 68 strokes on Thursday. After the event, the LPGA Tour heads to Asia for a series of tournaments for five consecutive weeks in Shanghai, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan.I would say I am a hit maker.
Akie Iwai
