Jose Manuel Lara was born on 21st May, 1977 in Valencia, Spain. He used to caddy for his father when he was just 10 years old. He was very good amateur representing Spain at boys, youth and senior levels. He turned pro in 1997 and is a good friend of Sergio Garcia.

Lara made three unsuccessful trips to Q-School before making it onto the European Tour in 2001. He then got injured but this time did make it through Q-School to earn his card for 2003. He made his breakthrough in 2006 winning the Hong Kong having led all through the tournament.