Ryo Ishikawa is getting close for making his 3rd victory at Fuji Sankei Classic by becoming a solo leader with 2 strokes cushion going into the final Sunday.

3R started after the reaming play of the 2R finished in the morning. But the start of the 3R was delayed for 90 minutes due to fog, and also play was stopped twice due to heavy rain. So, by the time Ryo holed out, it was just before 18:00.
"It was really long and tough day."

But even under tough conditions, Ryo's well-built body enabled him not to lose his balanced swing. Ryo's shot was precise from the start. From 2 putting for birdie on 3rd hole, he went on making 3 straight birdies. He had some troubles but succeeded in saving par. Then on 14th, he made miraculous 15-meter birdie putt.

He did 3 putted on 15th which did result as his only bogey of the day, but he scored 68 and became solo leader after the 3R.

"It was tough condition with thick fog and coldness. That takes away ball distance, making the long holes even longer to play. It was really difficult to battle this course."

But Ryo had a smile on during the round, and even with pouring rain he wore halve sleeves all the way.
"Wearing something over affects my swing, so I didn't put on a rain jacket. Also, my shirt is dry fit. I do have 2 shots lead, but there are still 18 more holes to play, and anything could happen. But I am looking forward to it anyway."

Ryo accomplished to defend his title 11 years ago.
"It was my 2nd year as a Pro and in my teens. I don't remember how I played and thought about golf. So many years passed by, of course I am totally different."

Indeed, Ryo has changed his swing, his built and also his mind set.
"My mind set towards each tournaments have really changed. I will try to perform the very best that I have tomorrow."
Ryo will turn 30 years old on September 17th. If he wins this week, it will be his last victory in his 20s.