Shugo is back from NY to seek the chance for a win. which he captured 2 years ago at this event.
Unfortunately, he couldn't make the CUT for neither The Masters nor the PGA Championship this year. So, took the Saturday flight back to Japan, and got little more time to get adjusted and ready.
"Last time at The Masters, I'd stayed there until the very last minute to see the miraculous comeback victory of Tiger and it got really hectic getting back and be ready. So, I decided to come back earlier, and I was able to get my jet lag away."

Shugo wanted to be ready for this tournament for another reason. 2 years ago, his now engaged, then a kept secret girlfriend Nanae was caddying by his side. This paring gave Shugo the first ever victory in his carrer.

Last year he tried to defend his title but ended as 2nd runner-up.
"This tournament is special in many ways to me", says Shugo, referring to the memorial win with his beloved future wife.

"This year's venue, KOMA CC has large greens, which makes it difficult to see the actual yardages. So, the second shot to the green will be the key point."
Shugo took 2 days to complete his practice round to get a deep and close look at the course.

"Last week's Bethpage Black was too long for me."
Bethpage Black is known as one of the most difficult venue for the Major tournaments.

"But I was able to learn to save Par, even I don't get on the green in 2."
Major tournament experiences are growing strongly within.

Next Monday, the day right after this tournament, there will be a 36-hole final qualify tournemanet for the US Open will be held at Kuwana CC in Mie Prefecture. It will be a tough schedule to beat, but 2018 Order of Merit titleholder is eager to get his ticket for another Major.

"All of the top players play and travel around in tight schedules, if I want to be in there, I must get used to it."