Riki Kawamoto set the clubhouse pace after signing for a first-round seven-under-par 63 at the Fujisankei Classic with South Africa’s Shaun Norris, also returning early to trail Kawamoto by a single shot at the Fujizakura Country Club on Thursday.
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Play was suspended at 4.30pm (local time) due to inclement weather with 38 players yet to complete their opening round. It was resume at 7.30am (local time) on Friday.
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Kawamoto, a two-time JGTO winner, birdied the par-three 11 before dropping his only shot of the day on the next hole, after starting his campaign on the back-nine 10. After making another par on 13, the 24-year-old made his move with three birdies in next five holes to turn in 31.
He then parred his next three holes before firing three successive birdies starting from the par-three four to move to six-under. Kawamoto then birdied the eighth hole before signing for an inward 32.
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“I’ve been hitting a lot of good shots and I’m really satisfied with myself. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way. Also, my physical condition is so much better now and I feel my game is getting sharper,” said Kawamoto.
With the possibility of a looming typhoon threatening to shorten the event, Kawamoto said: “There is a possibility of a shortened tournament, but I am mentally prepared to play all four rounds. It’s important to get a good start but I’m staying focused and ready.”
Norris, who finished tied-third last week, continued to show his good form. Like Kawamoto, the South African also started on the back-nine 10 and birdied 11. His only blemish came on the 15th hole before four birdies and an eagle-three on the eighth hole saw him returning with a 64.
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“I started off slowly in my front-nine but I remained patient and was rewarded after I made the turn. I managed to create more opportunities for myself then. Overall, it was a good day.
“I had a good break and was pleased with my finish last week. I hope to continue playing well,” said the 42-year-old.
