Iwai Akie (岩井明愛) claimed her first win of the season at the Stanley Ladies Honda, finishing at a tournament-record 16 under par. She held on with a final-round 67 featuring 6 birdies and 1 bogey, securing her 7th career win on the domestic tour, her first in 2 years.
Iwai Akie (岩井明愛) won the JLPGA Tour's Stanley Ladies Honda Golf Tournament. Her 16-under-par victory improved the tournament record by 1 stroke and marked her 7th win on the domestic tour.
She began the final round with a 1-stroke lead and played while holding off the chasing players. She shot a 67 with 6 birdies and 1 bogey, then sank a birdie putt from about 3 metres on the 18th hole to win by 2 strokes.
For Iwai (岩井), who primarily competes on the U.S. women's tour, the result fulfilled her desire to perform well at an event specially sponsored by Honda, her affiliated company. She maintained an attacking approach through to the end and turned it into her first title of the season.
In comments after her victory, she looked back on having expected a tough battle and staying focused throughout the final round, expressing satisfaction at finishing with a good birdie.