Kennedy has a point to prove again at Mizuno Open

Australia's Brad Kennedy does seem like a player with still plenty of gas left in his tank. However, he has indicated that he could call time on his illustrious JGTO career in the next "couple of years".

But when the 47-year-old eventually does it, it has to be on his own terms, which includes adding more wins to his title collection.

Such is the case for Kennedy that he is motivated to do well at this week's Gateway to The Open Mizuno Open. His relentless pursuit of a fourth title rather than a start in the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews is something the Australian is targeting this week.

Kennedy intends to keep knocking on the door after falling short on several occasions, including at last week's Golf Partner Pro-Am Tournament, after squandering a two-shot lead after the penultimate round to finish fourth.

Kennedy showed that he's out to redeem himself after firing a five-under 67 to tie for fifth place, three shots back of opening round leader Todd Baek of the United States.

"For me, (ticket to the Open) it's not really what I'm here for this week. I just want to prove to myself that I can get close to winning again. All the extra bonuses that come with that will be great," said Kennedy, who mixed six birdies with one bogey at the JFE Setonaikai Golf Club.

"I want to finish my time in Japan, whenever it may be, maybe in the next couple of years, just want to make sure I can give myself as many opportunities to try to win.

"That's my goal at the moment. Keep pushing myself to get into those position and see what happens after that."

Kennedy hopes to capitalise on playing in his happy hunting ground and try to reclaim the title he last won in 2012.

He also finished fifth in 2011.

"I've been in contention here twice. I sort of like know what it takes (to contend here)," he said.

" I love the golf course, and it's one of my favourite courses that we play in Japan on a regular season. 

"This gives me a real sense of comfort when I get there. I feel like I can play the course how I want to. 

"I have a lot of great memories there, so it's nice to be walking around and try to replicate that."