Yuta Ikeda who has continuously added his win for past 11 years is seeking to make it to 12 years with a great start on JT Cup 1R by scoring 64.
"I am glad that I was able to play well to start off the season ending tournament."

Rain from yesterday stopped, but no sunshine and the temperature were below 10 degrees Celsius.
"Freezing weather took away 20 yards from my distance, but I was able to sort out a good course management with my caddie and play smart."

On Par 5 6th, his 2nd shot from 215 yards darted to 2-meter of the pin for an eagle. Then again on Par 5 17th, from 201 yards with his 5I got to 3.5-meters and he nailed the left to right eagle putt to mark 6 under for 1R.

"I was worrying that I might not be able to make it into the field this year."
As Yuta recalled, only 5 tournaments were held this season due to the pandemic and, his first tournament Fuji Sankei Classic was not satisfying finish with 43rd. Then in Japan Open where he has won twice, he couldn't make the CUT. He did surface a little at VISA Taiheiyo Masters, but still it was 14th, and his Money Rankings stood at 30th.

He was on the bubble, but his 8th finish at the Dunlop Phoenix changed it all.
"I bet that birdie on 18th is the reason that I got my chance to be here this week."

His Money Rankings rose to 22nd and he was able to make his 12th continuous entry to JT Cup.

Yuta has become JGTO Players Association Executive Director in June this year and has been very busy off the course.
"During the stay home period, I had 6 remote conferences a day. I could only go to the course every 10days, it was really tough. I am happy that I was able to get my game back regardless of tough situations."

He was literary running around providing safety to the players as they chartered a plain to Miyazaki last month.
"I know it is costing me lots of time, but I can manage since I like doing this. I also feel that Ryo and myself as Vice Chairman must support Ryuoko Tokimatsu Chairman too."

Yuta is known to be a "big brother" to many, and his warm hospitality helped so many during the harsh times due to this pandemic.
"I am grateful that I have the chance to win and give back to the fans who always support me even we have so few tournaments this year. I will do my best to give back."

If Yuta wins, it will be 12th year in a row with at least 1 victory in a season.