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Chizzy Iwai shoots 63 to lead LA Championship

PUBLISHED Apr 16, 2026, 11:37 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 9

Center 100%

Sources: 9

Los Angeles. Chizzy Iwai opened the first round of the JM Eagle LA Championship at El Caballero Country Club with an extraordinary stretch, playing her first seven holes 7 under and capping the run with an eagle on the par-5 16th. She shot a 9-under 63 on Thursday to take a two-stroke lead in the tournament. El Caballero, a tree-lined layout, is subbing for Wilshire Country Club for the second straight year because of course renovations. The JM Eagle LA Championship serves as the final event on the schedule before the major Chevron Championship next week in Houston, giving players one last competitive appearance ahead of the Houston major.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

El Caballero serves as substitute host for Wilshire while renovations proceed.
Iwai opened her round with five consecutive birdies and an eagle to reach seven-under early.
Iwai finished the round with a nine-under 63, taking a two-stroke lead.
Tavatanakit, Sei Young Kim and Suvichaya Vinijchaitham finished at seven-under, tied for second.
Aditi Ashok carded a two-under 70 and was tied 59th, seven shots behind the leader.

News Intelligence

This isn't just about golf. It's about resilience and determination. Chizzy Iwai's performance shows us that even in the face of change (like a new course), excellence is possible. It's a reminder to embrace challenges, not shy away from them. If you're facing a change, take a leaf out of Iwai's book and tackle it head-on.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9

Who Benefited

Chizzy Iwai benefited from a nine-under 63 and two-stroke lead, gaining increased visibility, momentum and positioning ahead of the Chevron Championship.

Who Impacted

Several competitors, including Patty Tavatanakit, Sei Young Kim, Suvichaya Vinijchaitham and Aditi Ashok, faced deficits to the leader and must close the gap in subsequent rounds.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Chizzy Iwai benefited from a nine-under 63 and two-stroke lead, gaining increased visibility, momentum and positioning ahead of the Chevron Championship.

Who Impacted

Several competitors, including Patty Tavatanakit, Sei Young Kim, Suvichaya Vinijchaitham and Aditi Ashok, faced deficits to the leader and must close the gap in subsequent rounds.