What Is 2013 LPGA of Japan Tour

Overview

The 2013 LPGA of Japan Tour was the 46th season of the Japan Women's Professional Golfers' Association (JLPGA) circuit, serving as the premier women's golf tour in Japan. It featured a full schedule of professional tournaments, attracting top Japanese players and international competitors from Asia and beyond.

Running from March to December 2013, the tour offered substantial prize money and ranking points, contributing to global golf standings. The season highlighted Japan's strong presence in women's golf and provided a platform for rising talent and seasoned professionals alike.

• 38 official tournaments were held during the 2013 season, making it one of the most active years in the tour's history.
• The season began with the Dunlop Phoenix Ladies Tournament on March 14, 2013, in Miyazaki Prefecture.
• Ayako Uehara claimed the Vare Trophy equivalent by leading the money list with ¥123,789,000 in earnings.
• Momoko Ueda won the most events in 2013 with 4 victories, showcasing consistent performance throughout the season.
• The tour included three overseas events, including tournaments in Thailand, Taiwan, and South Korea, expanding its regional influence.

How It Works

The LPGA of Japan Tour operates as a season-long competition where players earn points and prize money based on tournament finishes. The structure supports player rankings, qualification for major events, and international representation.

• Season Duration: The 2013 tour spanned 10 months, from March 14 to December 8, ensuring a rigorous and competitive schedule.
• Player Eligibility: Membership is open to professional female golfers, with priority given to JLPGA members and qualifying tournament performers.
• Prize Money Distribution: Total prize funds exceeded ¥5 billion across all events, with individual tournaments offering between ¥80 million and ¥150 million.
• Ranking System: The Official Money List determined season rankings, influencing sponsorships and international event qualifications.
• Tournament Format: Most events followed a 72-hole stroke play format, with cut rules reducing the field after 36 holes.
• International Access: Top performers earned entry into co-sanctioned events with the LPGA of Korea and the Ladies European Tour.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2013 LPGA of Japan Tour with other major women's golf tours during the same year:

The 2013 LPGA of Japan Tour stood out for its high number of events and strong domestic support, surpassing even the U.S. LPGA in tournament count. While prize money in yen was lower than U.S. dollar equivalents, the tour's depth and consistency made it a cornerstone of women's golf in Asia.

Why It Matters

The 2013 season underscored the strength and sustainability of women's professional golf in Japan, influencing player development and regional sports culture. Its success helped maintain Japan's status as a leader in women's golf.

• The tour provided a launching pad for Japanese players aiming to compete on the U.S.-based LPGA Tour, such as Ai Miyazato and Sakura Yokomine.
• Strong media coverage in Japan ensured visibility, with NHK and regional networks broadcasting key events live.
• Corporate sponsorships from Dunlop, Toyota, and Fujitsu demonstrated sustained commercial interest in women's sports.
• The season's structure allowed for player development, with rookie performers gaining experience against seasoned professionals.
• International events strengthened regional golf ties, promoting cross-border competition and cultural exchange.
• High participation rates encouraged grassroots growth, inspiring young girls to pursue golf professionally in Japan.

Overall, the 2013 LPGA of Japan Tour played a vital role in advancing women's sports in Japan and maintaining the country's competitive edge in global golf.