Vantelin Tokai Classic's 1R leaders were all Tour's best long hitters. Chan Kim and Takahiro Hadachi are the 2 top players of 2019 Driving Distance Awards. The record Chan Kim made 2 years ago was 315.83 yards and the difference between Takahiro was just 0.53 yards.

Today, Chan Kim and Takahiro both scored 7 under, but Takahiro had some trouble but struggled hard to maintain 64, as Chan Kim made that same score bogey free.

"I chose not to use my 1W only on 3rd, 9th and 17th. My intension was to get the ball as close as possible to the green and aim with short irons."
His long drives easily fly over the traps set by the Miyoshi CC, which is know for tricky tough course.

On his back nine 7th, 490 yards Par 4, he had 178 yards left and with 8I he got it to 2.5-meters. Then on 230 yards Par 3 8th, his 7W tee shot got to 5-meters to gain consecutive birdies.

Chan went to PGA Championship in May, then passed the QT for US Open in June, went on to The Open in July, and added another tournament in EPGA.
"I learned that the key is to be patient. World top class players are able to cup in from anywhere."

Chan added new putter after he returned.
"It is the same model as Bryson DeChambeau. I am getting used to the green speed much easier. "

With Tour's top distance combined with reliable short game, Chan has nothing to worry about. He is locked on for making his season V2 following the JT Cup last December. He is also motivated to defend his title on the Driving Contest, which will be held on Saturday. His winning yardage was 346 yards back in 2019.
"I haven't received the offer to be in the contest, but if I am invited, I would love to join. My rival is Takahiro Hadachi."

Last time, Takahiro made a big mistake and ended up being wrost with only 147 yards.
"When you get too pumped up that could happen."
Chan lost the tournament to Shaun Norris last time, but Chan is eager to win both this time.