Same name must have given Taihei Sato a good luck. He has marked 65 with 8 birdies and a bogey, especially scoring 30 on his back nine, to finish as one of the co-leader for R1.

This is his second time to finish as a co-leader. His name familiarity with the special sponsor is not the only factor that is motivating him. He and Koki Shiomi won at the doubles match last year also sponsored by Sato Shokuhin.
"I want to give back to Sato Shokuhin for giving us the chance. I also want to show that I am capable to play well on the Regular Tour too."

"I really want to win by August. I have a big goal lying ahead. If I could be within top 15 on the Money Rankings, I might gain the chance to challenge the QT of EPGA Tour. 3 players who desires with in the top 15 achieved that chance. I want to go and train myself."

Taihei is 1 grade junior of Hideki Matsuyama and they have been close since college days. They have spoken right after Hideki won The Masters.
"Hideki always tells me to go to US PGA. He says, let's enjoy practicing and having meals together. He says we are a bit spoiled at Japan Tour so I should get beaten up a little at EPGA first, then try out for US PGA. I am glad that he is looking out for me and encouraging me."

Taihei could get closer to his ultimate goal by winning this week.
"Since I was able to start as co-leader, I want to challenge for the victory."