Tomohiro Ishizaka will take a two-shot lead into the weekend after the 25-year-old fired a flawless eight-under-par 63 to grab the second round lead at the Japan Players Championship by Satosyokuhin on Friday.
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Ishizaka, who is chasing his maiden win on the JGTO at Nishinasuno Country Club this week, compiled a two-day total of 14-under-par 128 to establish a slim advantage over Tasunori Shogenji who matched Ishizaka’s effort with a 63 of his own.
Kento Yamawaki (67), Takahiro Hataji (68), Naoyuki Kataoka (64) and Ren Yonezawa (68) are tied for third as the leading pack battle for top honours and the winner’s prize purse of JPY 10,000,000.
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“I’m glad I finally got it done. After yesterday’s rain, today’s sunny and hot conditions completely changed the course. I’ve played here many times – it’s a course where good scores are possible if you manage it well and stick to your game plan,” said Ishizaka.
Ishizaka started the round, two shots off the pace. He enjoyed a promising start with an opening birdie before picking up further gains on holes four, six and seven. After reaching the turn in 32, he stormed further ahead with three birdies in four holes, starting from the 10th. He then closed with an eighth birdie of the round on 17th.
“Honestly, I wasn’t really tracking my score. Especially on the back nine, it was more like, ‘Oh, I got a birdie here’ and everything just followed the plan. The putts dropped when needed. Before I knew it, the score added up.
“Being in this position, I’ll keep the pressure on and aim to build momentum. A first win here would mean a lot, but it’s still early. For now, I just want to keep playing my game,” said Ishizaka.
