Shingo Katayama made his way into 5-way tie at 2nd with score of 66 on R1 at Japan PGA Championship, the title he holds for 2003 and 2008.

"I don't dislike playing in the rain. But still for an old guy like me, it's pretty tough just to walk in this rain. This Nikko CC has held Japan Open back in 2003, and this course need quite a technic to conquer. You can't just play your way through here easily. I think I am suited to play better in tough course conditions, and I get motivated naturally."

Shingo was mentioned by Hiroshi Iwata about the strong impression given to him when they first time met, which was 18 years ago in this Nikko CC. Shingo is one of the legendary players on the Tour now, but still, he is competitive among on the Regular Tour where young stars dominates nowadays.

For Shingo, Katsumasa Miyamoto is old buddy from same Nippon University, and they are more like friends admiring each other rather than rivals.
"I get to meet other professional sports players and business executives, and many of them who has been fighting in there world over 20 years are survivors. There are good times and bad times. I had plenty of bad times, I almost got thrown away from the golf world, but somehow, I managed to make my way back. So, Katsumasa and I always encourage one other for our efforts and are very thankful for being able to play still."

Shingo is obviously a legend himself, but today he was facing his admiring player, Akira Teranishi, a president of a company and also turned Pro at the age of 49, who became the Senior Tour Order of Merit Champion at the age of 54.
"I am thinking about the life after turning 50, and I always wanted to have the chance to speak with Akira and learn from him. I have met him before, but this was my first time to play with him. I was quite nervous today. Akira's golf was really superb. I acknowledge how great he was. I respect him from bottom of my heart. What is so great about him? You will know when you see him play. It's just so great."

Shingo will surely excited and appreciating another round with his admiring hero tomorrow.

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