Ryuko Tokimatsu aka "Gen-chan" was in same group with Ryo Ishikawa for R1 and was able to show his first ever record. Gen-chan ended both nine holes with an eagle. To mark 2 eagles on 1 round was first ever in his 8 years of professional career.

The first one on Par 5 18 was his 3rd shot from 30 yards with 58 degrees wedge, it struck the pin and bounced straight down and fell into the cup. Gen-chan praised himself with his both arms up in the air, Ryo congratulated by giving a high five.

The second one was on 9th, where Gen-chan shot his second from 260 yards with cleek to 2.5 meters, and successfully made the eagle putt.

"I didn't have any eagles so far this season. I was wondering if I could, then suddenly 2 eagles came at once today."

These 2 eagles helped him to finish with 5 under, 3T for Round 1. He is now in good position to make his second win at this tournament. His 2nd career victory was at this Bridgestone Open back in 2017, but it was shortened to 36 holes due to the bad weather by typhoon.

This year, Sodegaura CC in Chiba Prefecture went through very heavy damages from giant Typhoon few weeks ago. Over 1200 trees in the course fell down.
"Sodegaura CC lost so many trees, I hope there will be no more damage this week."

As Gen-chan mentioned, another giant Typhoon is coming to Kanto area on the weekends. But as long as the play goes on, Gen-chan wants to be positive and wants to welcome the fans to have fun at the course.

"I will be with Ryo again tomorrow, so please come and see us play. I will try to play my best to make the game exciting."