LPGA LOTTE Championship Power Rankings (Video)
The LPGA goes back to work this week at the 6th edition of the LOTTE Championship, and what a lovely office the field will have to ply their trade. All of us should be so fortunate as to labor for a few days at the Ko Olina Golf Club in Oahu, Hawaii and then wrap it all up with a hula!
This week, however, even with daytime temperatures in the low 80s and light winds, the field needs to pack their rain gear. Still, it’s Hawaii where the sun always shines, so if you’re stuck somewhere not quite so idyllic take a break and enjoy the view from the Ko Olina webcam.
The resort track features broad landing areas, greens with dynamic variation, and some spectacular views. Generally rated as the best golf course in the island state, Ko Olina will play 6397 yards this week.
Defending champion Minjee Lee will face the usual cast of challengers. The young Aussie delivered a red hot final round 64 last year to claw her way up the board, overcome a 5-shot deficit, and edge out Katie Burnett and In Gee Chun for the privilege of dancing the celebratory hula.
There’s no doubt Minjee Lee would like to make it back-to-back wins this week, but the LOTTE Championship field is a strong one. I have her ranked at the top of the field, but she’s wobbled a bit during the early-season events.
Let’s take a look at her competition this week, starting with a trio of dark horses.