Thrilling atmosphere surrounds the course, as Mikumu Horikawa makes unstoppable charge. He played his 1R with 64 and said after the round, "when you play so well, the next round tends to be a struggle". But his forecast was wrong, in great way as he scored 65 on his 2R, making bogey free round with 7 birdies. Total of 15 under after 2 rounds became the lowest record of this tournament.

Mikumu was having really tough 2 years with suffering from putting yips.

"I have decided to putt with the image I make with hitting draw and fade shots according to the line."

This new approach to his problem worked like magic. He also had a great help from his university buddy as his caddy who knows this Kochi Kuroshio CC inside out.

"He knows so well about the speed of the green and how the grain would effect. I am good at reading the lines, but he is so trustworthy, and when our image matches, I get very comfortable with confidence before I make the putt."

After R2, Mikumu has 4 shots lead and getting on the roll. For the players in the race for Order of Merit title, there is only 2 more tournaments left including this Casio World Open. Also, this week is live or die situations for the player on the bubble.

"Every player is so serious and filled with fighting spirit to gain their goals."

Mikumu is currently at 15th on the Money Rankings, it is not realistic for Mikumu to aim for Order of Merit Champion at this state. He also has safely attained his Tour Seed for next season, and he is also eligible to be part of JT Cup next week.

"So, I don't have any stress since I have accomplished the goals. My wish for this week is to play to show what I have accomplished this year with a satisfying performance. Best way will be winning my career 2nd victory here."