Last month, Hideto Tanihara won his 15th career victory just 2 days after he turned 43 years old. Then just 21 days later he won another one for the year, and it was the most prestigious tournament of the season.

"I was able to win at 42 years old and again in 43. It is greatest Christmas and Happy New Year present for me", smiled wearing winner's red jacket.

This was his 13th challenge to JT Cup, and finally he has accomplished to win this Major.

"With this win, I have gained a confidence that I could go against the young guns. "

Hideto's caddy is 2-time Tour winner professional golfer, Tatuya Taniguchi.

"I have played for such long time and earned 2 wins, Hideto did it in just 1 month. He is so smart and clever in making his game. He is also so determined. When he is locked on, he will not miss."

Hideto started out as solo leader with 1 stroke margin, but he stumbled with 3-putt bogey at the beginning.

"My shot was back to a bit better than worse. I couldn't read the lines correctly and couldn't make birdies. I was fighting hard to keep my patience. When Tomoyo Ikemura was getting on the roll, I was thinking it is his day and not mine."

But Hideto got back on his feet as he made 8-meter hook line on 13th. Then he went on making another 8-meter, this time slice line and became leader again. His real potential and experience were shown on 17th, where he made miss shot on his 2nd but played with smart management and took away the birdie.

He faced the final 18th with 2 shots lead. The Par 3 where he 3-putted for bogey and lost last year.

"I knew it is better to make approach shot from the apron, so I didn't go for the green. I chose the club that wouldn't reach the green. My plan was a success."

Hideto made the winning par putt and showed his fist pump.

Last week, he took the whole week off to treat his back ache.

"My body and swing got better as days go by. Everything aspect was working on my side."

Hideto is planning to challenge the EPGA Tour again.

"I know it is lot easier playing on Japan Tour, but I want to improve among the top-class players, even I will suffer again. My son gets upset when I don't win, but when I do win, he says Daddy is cool, so I want to tell my son how it is important to work hard. I hope the next season will be more exciting with 20s, 30s, and 40s all making great performances."