Lilia Vu Balances Competition and Community in LA

By Emily Cho

TARZANA, Calif. – It’s good to be home — or at least close to it. Lilia Vu is excited for something of a home game, competing just 2 hours away from her hometown of Fountain Valley.

While she’s never played at this course before, Vu isn’t going in blind. Her caddie grew up in the area so she plans to trust his judgment calls this week.

Being near home has given Vu the time to reflect on the devastating LA fires.

“Not being too far from the fires…to see all the homes and the animals that couldn't get out is really depressing and sad,” she said. “But LA is resilient and I think having this tournament here is going to bring everyone out here together and just kind of heal together.”

Vu even had the opportunity to play with JM Eagle CEO Walter Wang and Plastpro CEO Shirley Wang, who are the generous sponsors of this tournament.

“I played with him [Walter Wang] three years ago,” Vu said. “He’s such a down-to-earth guy and really wanted to help us out. Then he got involved with the LPGA, and then with all the stuff that’s doing for the LA fires has been amazing…it’s so impactful, and it makes the community stronger.”

Vu is always thrilled to compete near home and hopes for the chance to also play in the 2028 Olympics here in LA.

“It’s been a long time coming, right…I think that would be great for the game of golf and the Olympics, and it’s in the heart [of] LA.”

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