Shingo Katayama has won back in 2016 at this ABC Championship to make his 30th career victory. That was also his 4th victory at this tournament. He as great results on this tournament and finished within top 10 8 times. And today he jumped to 7T, just 2 strokes behind the leaders and drew his chance for V5 at this tournament closer.

After the practice round, he was saying this course is becoming tough for him, but he is in contention after 2 rounds.

"This course requires technic, having long distance won't solve. Greens are slick and pin positions are really difficult so, you need experience and technic. All I lack is youngness."

He is 48 years old, but still has well trained physical power so that his distance is not much different than the days he won Order of Merit titles 5 times (2000, 2004-2006 and 2008).

"My average distance is same as then, and I ranked in 20s and 30s. But with the same distance, I am now in 60s in rankings. There are so many players hitting really long. So, I may be down in rankings, but I am proud that I am capable of keeping my distance."

Shingo is paring up with legendary caddy, Shigenori Shimizu. They paired once back in JT Cup last year. This caddy is known to have supported both male and female professional to Order of Merit Champions. This legendary professional and caddy matchup is valuable scene to watch.

Shingo is 44th on Money Rankings and safely secured his Tour Seed for the next season.

"I don't need to worry about that now. But you never know what the outcome will be next year, or year after that. But I don't want to push myself too much being this age. I want to enjoy.  Won't be able to bear with this without having fun. It is a miracle that I am being able to play this long. I am blessed."