Chizzy Iwai Shoots 63 to Take 2-Shot Lead in LA

Japanese player birdied 5 of first 7 holes, eagled par-5 16th in morning round

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:41pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the explosive energy and movement of a professional golfer mid-swing, with the golfer's face and details dissolving into unrecognizable brushstrokes.Chizzy Iwai's blistering start has her in prime position to capture her second LPGA title at the JM Eagle LA Championship.Los Angeles Today

Chizzy Iwai played a blistering front nine, going 7-under through her first 7 holes, including an eagle on the par-5 16th, to shoot a 9-under 63 and take a 2-shot lead after the first round of the JM Eagle LA Championship in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

Iwai's strong start puts her in prime position to capture her second career LPGA Tour victory, with the major Chevron Championship next on the schedule. The tournament is being played at the tree-lined El Caballero Country Club, subbing for the usual Wilshire Country Club venue.

The details

Iwai birdied 5 of her first 7 holes, capped by an eagle on the par-5 16th, to card a 9-under 63 and take a 2-shot lead. Former UCLA player Patty Tavatanakit, Sei Young Kim, and Suvichaya Vinijchaitham are tied for second at 7-under 65. Defending champion Ingrid Lindblad shot 69, while 2023 and 2024 Wilshire winner Hannah Green fired a 67.

  • Iwai played her first 7 holes in 7-under par.
  • Iwai eagled the par-5 16th hole.
  • Iwai's 63 matched the lowest score in the 2-year history at El Caballero Country Club.

The players

Chizzy Iwai

A 23-year-old Japanese player who won her first LPGA Tour event last year at the Mexico Riviera Maya Open.

Patty Tavatanakit

A former UCLA player who is tied for second after shooting a 7-under 65.

Sei Young Kim

A South Korean player who is also tied for second at 7-under 65.

Suvichaya Vinijchaitham

A player from Thailand who is tied for second at 7-under 65.

Ingrid Lindblad

The defending champion, who shot a 3-under 69 in the opening round.

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What they’re saying

“Good tee time in morning, so very peaceful and I feel comfortable. I had a feeling so relaxing. I had a good feeling.”

— Chizzy Iwai, LPGA Player

“My ball-striking felt really good. Just a solid day. Made a lot of putts.”

— Patty Tavatanakit, LPGA Player

“I just feel very comfortable when I'm back here in LA. Doesn't really matter if it's Wilshire.”

— Hannah Green, LPGA Player

What’s next

The tournament continues through the weekend, with the final round on Sunday. Iwai will look to hold onto her 2-shot lead and capture her second career LPGA title.

The takeaway

Chizzy Iwai's blistering start has put her in prime position to win the JM Eagle LA Championship, the final tune-up before the major Chevron Championship. With several top players in the mix, the weekend action at El Caballero Country Club should provide an exciting preview of the LPGA's upcoming major championship.