Last week's winner, Kodai Ichihara has done a 5-stroke deficit victory at the Phoenix. This week he sits again on 5 strokes behind the leader at the night before the final round.

When Kodai started on 10th today, wind was calming down. He started out great on the moving Saturday with 3 birdies in a row from 12th hole. He also continued his charge on his back nine and scored 66.
"My shots and putts were great. I was dead to the pin and made any chances."

His A game is on a good wave since last week's win at the Phoenix. Last year, Kodai cried over missing his tour card at this tournament. This year he is looking for a chance of consecutive victory.
"What a difference a year can make. It a somewhat weird feeling." Says Kodai.

Every year, this tournament becomes the stage for the players on the bubble.
"Last year was tough, but year 2012 was pretty cruel too."
He sat at 71st on the Money List and missed the chance by only 60,000 yen.
That time, "smiley Kodai" lost his smiles.

"A lot of mixed feelings goes through my mind when I stand on this course. But I am very appreciative that I am able to play in the position I am playing. I will concentrate on each and every shot tomorrow. I will not forget to be grateful for what I accomplished."

Kodai stays humble even at his greatest moments. This character must be the key to his strength.