Kim Takes Early Lead in Hawaii With 65
A Lim Kim carded a bogey-free 7-under 65 at Hoakalei Country Club to lead the LOTTE Championship after round one. Ina Yoon and Yu Liu are one stroke back after 66s, while Auston Kim and Jeeno Thitikul headline a group at 5-under. Kim, the 2024 champion, birdied three straight holes from the 15th in wet and breezy weather.
A Lim Kim began the LOTTE Championship in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, with a clean 65, good for seven under and a one-stroke edge. The 2024 winner made three birdies in a row starting at No. 15, then parred the closing par five. Rain and wind made Hoakalei challenging.
Ina Yoon and Yu Liu each posted 66 and trail by one. Auston Kim used an eagle at the 10th in her 67, joining Jeeno Thitikul, Polly Mack, Michelle Zhang, Maja Stark and Chanettee Wannasaen at five under. Hawaii's Allisen Corpuz began with a 68.
This early lead could boost attention for the LPGA’s Hawaii stop and its international field, including players from South Korea, China, and the United States. Fans and young golfers may see more evidence that women’s professional golf offers compelling competition in difficult weather. Local businesses around Ewa Beach might benefit if interest grows, though one round rarely determines a tournament’s broader reach.