Kanaya, Ishikawa set sight on victory at their favorite hunting ground

Takumi Kanaya is counting on his course familiarity and impressive track record at scenic Taiheiyo Club to bolster his bid for a first DP World Tour title at this week's  ISPS Handa Championship.

The Gotemba Course has proven to be a happy hunting ground for the 25-year-old, as he has never finished outside top-five in all of his past four appearances at the Mitsui Sumitomo Visa Taiheiyo Masters.

Kanaya's fine streak began at the 2019 edition, where he secured his landmark maiden JGTO victory, remarkably as an amateur.

Although he has not replicated this success since, Kanaya has consistently impressed in subsequent visits, finishing tied-fifth in 2020, outright second in 2021, and tied-third last year.

Kanaya, who finished third in the JGTO Money Rankings last season, is undoubtedly one to keep an eye on, especially considering his outstanding recent form.

Following a tied-seventh finish at the Asian Tour's International Series Oman, he began the new JGTO season in the best possible fashion by clinching the Token Homemate Cup-  his sixth title on the JGTO circuit.

Ahead of Thursday's tee-off, Kanaya expressed his enthusiasm for facing off against his formidable European circuit counterparts in the tournament, jointly sanctioned by the JGTO and DP World Tour for only the second time ever.

"I’m excited to play on this enjoyable golf course. I believe everyone has an equal chance since the DP World Tour is being held in Japan, but I aim to maintain my usual game and strive to be in contention," said Kanaya.

Despite the prospect of earning an instant full card to compete on the DP World Tour, Kanaya believes it's crucial not to get carried away.

"Winning this event would certainly alter my circumstances, but my approach to the game remains the same—I want to focus on each hole," vowed Kanaya.

"I will only think about it only after I have won this event."

Echoing similar sentiments, Ryo Ishikawa, who has enjoyed his fair share of success at the Gotemba Course, is hopeful of contending again this week.

The 32-year-old, nicknamed the "Bashful Prince," boasts three victories at the venue, winning in 2010, 2012, and most recently in 2022.

"It is easier for me to play on a course where I’m familiar, rather than experiencing it for the first time. I have more information about that golf course, and I want to take advantage of it," said Ishikawa.

"As for the scores, they depend on my chipping and putting. I aim to adjust to those aspects. With the rain, the greens won't be too fast, so I believe I can afford to be aggressive."

The Japanese contingent can anticipate stiff competition from DP World Tour stars, including none other than ISPS Handa ambassadors Mathieu Pavon of France and Scotland's Ewen Ferguson.

Pavon, is currently riding on a strong momentum since he started the year with a bang by winning the Farmers Insurance Open in January.

He showcased his ability again at the Masters Tournament recently, finishing a creditable T12, a feat which propelled him to career-high No. 21 in the Official World Golf Ranking.

"Following the last tournament, I'm grateful to be back in Japan," said Pavon, who finished T35 at PGM Ishioka Golf Club last year.

"Lately, I've been performing well and feeling in good form. I've been really looking forward to coming to Japan. Last time I was here, I fell in love with this country.

"There's the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, but also the serenity of nature at the foot of Mount Fuji. The condition of the course is fantastic too.

"Despite the rain today, the drainage was excellent, and the course remained in splendid condition. I'm excited to play on this course."

Ferguson, who has two DP World Tour titles to his name, is out to make his sponsor proud in what is his first appearance in Japan.

"I haven't been playing in tournaments for the past three weeks, so I hope my form hasn't declined. I draw inspiration from other players, including Pavon. I want to give my best as a representative of ISPS," said Ferguson.

"This is my first time in Japan, and I'm having a great time so far. The food has been excellent, and Chairman Handa has been very kind to me.

"Since I won't be participating in the tournament in China next week, I plan to stay in Tokyo for a few days with her after this tournament."

Ends.