2018 season now has 13 first time winners, the latest will be 34 years old Tatsunori Nukaga. He has finally won on his 13th year in Japan Tour.

"I couldn't believe what was going on at first. I have tried so many times but failed to win. As for today, everything well. I did not look at the leader boards, I was able to concentrate. I had the feeling that if I could make this birdie, I will be in good position. But never thought I could really win."

The 2-meter birdie putt he made on the final 18th, was the winning putt. He got to 9 under and a club house leader. Shota Akiyoshi made a double bogey with his tee shot being OB, winner's jacket suddenly slid over to Tatsunori.

"I always get so nervous and miss the important putt or do OB. But today I was focused and played well until the very end. I really don't know why. I am surprised of myself for being so calm and focused."

Tastunori made a 30 yards chip-in-eagle on the 3rd hole. On the hardest hole, Par 4 (510 yards) 6th, he took a 5 Iron and shot to 3 meters to the pin and made the only birdie of today. Then on the "used to be Par 5" Par 4 15th, it was 300 yards today, he took a 3 Wood and perfectly made the green, 2 putted for easy birdie.

On practice round, Tatunori played with Hideki Matsuyama. With some conversation with Hideki, Tatsunori got his mind cleared and rebuild his game together. He also said that he did not like Gotemba Course much, but since it was renewed, it felt different.
"After the renewal, the holes where I could use the driver for tee shots increased. I also felt comfortable playing the course. I must thank Hideki for doing such a great renewal."

Tatsunori received an invite to this tournament. Before the tournament, his mind was filled about taking the QT Third next week. With this win, there is no need. He has to pay for the cancel fee but with the winner's prize, that's nothing!
"Now I don't have to worry about the Tour Card. This is really big to me."

Sudden victory couldn't give Tastunori a winning scene. Like crying for joy on the 18th green. But he was still very joyous when his loving sons rushed to him. The 8 years old will start to play SNAG Golf soon. 3 years old had a fever but was there for his dad cheering. Tatsunori, with no more worries about next year's Tour Card, can spend as much time with his family as he wants!

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