Shugo Imahira has been finishing within top 10 at this tournament since 2016. Last year, he was 5 shots behind, but finished at solo 2nd. Shugo knows this Fujizakura suits his game and has shown it with his play today.

On his back nine Par 5 3rd, his 3rd shot from the deep rough on the left front side of the green was 30 yards.
"I couldn't see the undulation of the green and there was not much of the green over the pin, so I just wished it would get closer to the pin."
Shugo said it was lucky, but he made a chip in from 30 yards for an eagle.

Shugo is last season's Order of Merit Champion but now he stands at 4th. In order to defend his champion title, he really needs to win his first win of this season soon.

"I really would like to win soon, but I should work hard and be in contention in every tournament. If I could compete for the winner's seat in every game and give myself a chance to actually grab the victory. I better start to gear up more now."