Get ready, golf fans! The LPGA Tour heads to the City of Angels from April 16th for the JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro.
All eyes are on Japan’s own Erika Hara, as she prepares to showcase her dynamic game against a world-class field.
Known for her powerful driving and charismatic presence, Hara continues her quest for global success. This week in LA will be a crucial test of her skill and ambition on the big stage.
Tournament Overview
- Tournament Name: JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro
- Dates: April 16 – April 19, 2026
- Venue: El Caballero Country Club (Tarzana, California)
- Title Sponsor: JM Eagle & Plastpro
- Total Purse: $3.75 Million
- Winner’s Share: $562,500
- Defending Champion: Ingrid Lindblad (2025)
The Venue: El Caballero Country Club
Located in the San Fernando Valley, El Caballero CC is a historic Robert Trent Jones Sr. design. The course is famous for its demanding layout, featuring narrow corridors and lightning-fast, undulating greens. For Erika Hara, the key to success will be balancing her aggressive long game with precision putting on these challenging surfaces.
Signature Holes of El Caballero Country Club
El Caballero Country Club, famously redesigned by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., is renowned for its highly strategic layout. Here are the standout “signature holes” that will test Erika Hara and the world’s best:
1. The 14th Hole (Par 4 / 385 Yards)
Often cited by golf media and players as the most memorable hole at “El Cab,” the 14th is a stunning yet demanding par 4.
- The Layout: This hole features a sharp dogleg right that requires extreme precision off the tee.
- The Strategy: Players must land their tee shot accurately between 225 and 250 yards to set up a challenging downhill approach. The green is heavily guarded by five bunkers, with a steep drop-off to the right, leaving zero room for error.
2. The 2nd Hole (Par 3 / 185 Yards)
A breathtaking par 3 that combines visual beauty with immense pressure.
- The Layout: Golfers must carry their shot over a deep canyon to reach a long, narrow green situated about 50 feet below the teeing ground.
- The Strategy: Surrounded by three massive bunkers and out-of-bounds areas, architect Ted Robinson designed this hole with a clear message: “Find the green or face the consequences.” It is a true test of nerves.
3. The 10th Hole (Par 4 / 456 Yards)
Known as the most difficult hole on the course, the 10th is a brute that can derail any scorecard.
- The Layout: Not only is it long, but it often plays directly into the prevailing wind.
- The Strategy: To clear the corner of the dogleg, a carry of over 240 yards is required. Anything less makes saving par nearly impossible. For the pros, walking away with a “4” here feels like a birdie.
Featured Japanese Players
Joining Erika Hara is a strong contingent of Japanese stars, including:
Mimu Yamashita Akie Iwai Chisato Iwai Minami Katsu Ayaka Furue Saki Baba Yuri Yoshida Yuka Sasou Kokona Sakurai Hinako Shibuno
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