It’s fitting the LPGA Tour is competing with the Hollywood sign in view this week because the HUGEL-Air Premia LA Open leaderboard is filled with stars.
Six-time LPGA Tour champion Jessica Korda leads the way at 13-under overall, but Rolex Rankings Nos. 1 and 3, Jin Young Ko and Sei Young Kim, are lurking heading into the final two rounds at Wilshire Country Club. Ko is solo second and -10 for the tournament, while Kim sits third at -9.
Other competitors in the hunt include major champions Brooke Henderson and Angela Stanford in a tie for fourth, as well as another pair of major winners So Yeon Ryu and Hannah Green sharing sixth place.
“It’s very exciting for the next two rounds because a lot of good players are on top. I can’t wait to play,” said Kim, who carded a 5-under par 66 in the second round highlighted by six birdies. “I always push myself, but the good players make me more motivated and to push myself even harder. I think it’s going to be fun.”
In her 91st consecutive week at World No. 1, Ko managed seven birdies and only surrendered one bogey on No. 17 this afternoon to sign for a 6-under 65. The strong showing may have looked simple, but Ko is thankful for time to recharge the batteries before moving day in Hancock Park.
“My mind is like out, everything is like out,” said Ko, referring to fatigue setting in from a long day on the course in chilly temperatures (for Los Angeles). “I want to have hot water and take a rest. I had a great round today and there was lots of wind, so I had a lot of tough shots. I’m happy to be in my position.”
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