Kim wins second tour title

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April 19, 2015

Sei-Young Kim became the first player to win a second LPGA Tour title this year when she defeated fellow South Korean Inbee Park in a play-off to win the Lotte Championship in Hawaii.

Kim won her maiden title at the Pure Silk-Bahamas in February, in what was just her second ever start as a tour member.

The 22-year-old made par on the 18th hole to match her compatriot’s score of 11-under and force a play-off.

“I tried to only focus on getting the ball to the hole because I didn’t have (much) of a chance,” Kim told AFP.

She was the recipient of some good fortune on the first play-off hole, as her second shot (from 154 yards out) bounced and landed dropped into the cup for an eagle, while Park only matched par.

“I don’t believe what happened there. It’s still unbelievable,” Kim said

The 22-year-old held a share of the lead at the halfway mark after scores of 67 in her opening two rounds, and started Sunday’s final round with a one shot lead after carding a two-under 70 in round three.

She had an inconsistent start to the final day, shooting a birdie, then a bogey and a double bogey on the first three holes.

Another two birdies and one bogey followed as she carded a one-over 73 and grab a share of the lead despite failing to break par.

Park had earlier shot three birdies and two bogeys for a one-under 71, after scores of 67, 70 and 69 in the first three rounds.

The victory caps off four days of domination by South Korean players at the Ko Olina Golf Club.

IK Kim carded a two over 74 in the final round to finish third, while Hyoo Joo Kim and Chella Choi finished tied for fourth after respective scores of 69 and 72 in the final round.

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