This week Ryo Ishikawa has brought his new buddy on his bag. A new face who made debut last year as a Pro and his name is Ryo Katsumata.

Ryo Katsumata doesn't hold any credentials yet. He did try out for this week's tournament but couldn't make it by 1 stroke. Ryo and Ryo had played at Final Round of the Japan Open last October.
Ryo Ishikawa says, "He has a great potential, plays really high-level golf. I think he is a great player."

They are both from Saitama Prefecture, and became close friends during the off season.
"He couldn't make it into the field, but I think this will be a good experience for him, so I have asked him to carry my bag. I hope he will learn a lot this week."

One think that is making Ryo Ishikawa uncomfortable is the name.
"I never called someone else Ryo. He calls me Ryo-san with some respect. Ryo is an easy name to call out, but it feels strange for me. I hope things don't get mixed up."

Last week his younger sister caddied for Ryo, and unfortunately, he couldn't make the cut. He must make a coma back this week, on the tournament he has first won as a Pro.

Last year this event was cancelled, and the stage will be Arima Royal GC.
"The setting is very high, such a Kansai Open quality. Greens are so fact and tight. It will be resisted to stop on the green if you are hitting from the fairway on down wind. But it you hit a ball with enough spin, it will. The greens are set perfectly, and it is fun challenging it."

Ryo's younger sister is not here this week, but his younger brother Wataru is back to challenge the professional tournament as an amateur.

Double-Ryo and even Wataru might be ready to make the revenge from disappointing last week.