Mississauga,Ontario – Akie Iwai continued her extraordinary form,surging to the top of the leaderboard at the CPKC Women’s Open on Thursday. This appearance comes just four days after securing a breakthrough win at the Portland Classic,showcasing her current dominance in the sport.

Iwai Sets the Pace with Remarkable Performance

Iwai concluded her afternoon round at the Mississaugua Golf and Country Club with consecutive birdies on the eighth and ninth holes, carding a 7-under 64. This performance establishes a two-stroke lead,signaling her intention to contend for another title. “Last week’s win is behind me,” Iwai stated, demonstrating a focused mindset.

A contender’s Field Emerges

Fifteen-year-old Canadian amateur Aphrodite Deng shares second place alongside top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul, alongside experienced players Leona Maguire, Gaby Lopez, and the 2023 champion Megan khang. This diverse mix of talent promises a captivating competition throughout the tournament.

Sisterly success and a First Canadian Experience

Iwai’s triumph in Oregon on Sunday marked a special occasion,as she joined her twin sister,Chisato,as a rookie LPGA Tour winner. The 23-year-old Japanese golfer previously achieved second-place finishes in Thailand and Los Angeles earlier this year. notably, this marks Iwai’s first time competing in Canada, a location she describes as strikingly similar to courses found in Japan.

chisato Iwai, however, faced a more challenging start, with bogies on the eighth and ninth holes resulting in a score of 75.

Rising Stars and Seasoned Veterans

Aphrodite Deng,a Calgary native who has lived in both Montreal and New Jersey,currently resides in Orlando,Florida,yet proudly maintains her canadian citizenship and actively participates in Golf Canada’s junior program. Deng’s approach focuses on consistent shot-making and strategic fairway placement.”Just trying to hit each shot and play in the fairway,” she explained.

Thitikul’s Debut as World number One

Jeeno Thitikul entered the tournament following her recent ascent to the world’s number one ranking, surpassing Nelly Korda. Thitikul approached the first round as a continuation of her routine, stating, “I think just like another day at work for me.” Korda, in turn, began with a solid 69.

Henderson Faces Challenges,Coughlin Defends

Canada’s brooke Henderson,a celebrated star,experienced a fluctuating round with four birdies and four bogeys,finishing at 71. The 2018 champion is seeking to reclaim her winning form, having last secured an LPGA Tour title in January 2023.Defending champion Lauren Coughlin carded a 74, aiming to replicate her success from last year’s event in Calgary.

Here’s a speedy look at the top five contenders:

Player Score Country
akie Iwai -7 (64) Japan
Aphrodite Deng -5 Canada
Jeeno Thitikul -5 Thailand
Leona Maguire -5 Ireland
Gaby Lopez -5 Mexico

Did you Know? Akie iwai is a six-time winner on the JLPGA Tour before making her mark on the LPGA circuit.

Pro Tip: A consistent short game is frequently enough the difference between a good round and a great one. Focus on precision putting and chipping for lower scores.

What are your predictions for the remainder of the CPKC Women’s Open? Do you think Iwai can maintain her lead, or will a challenger emerge?