Last year, under serious pandemic situation, all of the players were transported out from prior week's venue Shizuoka Prefecture to Miyazaki Prefecture by charted airplane. This year as it always used to be, a big welcoming cerebration was held at Miyazaki Airport for defending champion Takumi Kanaya. So many of the famous past winners have received this special welcome.

When Takumi landed at the Miyazaki Airport, he walked on the red carpet with his face blushing with shyness. Last year, within 2 months since he has turned professional in October, he has won his 1st victory as professional at Dunlop Phoenix.

"Thanks to that victory, Miyazaki is very special place for me. I am glad that we will be having spectators this year. I want to play well so I could receive the cheers and applauds that we missed last year."

Takumi's solo 2nd finish last week at SMBC VISA Taiheiyo Master made him jump up as No.1 on the Money Rankings. His World Ranking also rose to 58th and, ticket to The Masters provided to Top 50 players are getting closer.

"I will of course aim to defend my champion title. I want to capture the Order of Merit title too, so in order to make that happen, I want to win at the tournament which suits me so well."

1st Round will be dedicated to medical and health care workers.

"We are thankful for all of the medical and health care workers for their support and efforts. We are able to play safely on the tournaments because of all of their work. I want to show my deepest gratitude by playing my best and give back at least some power of support."