30 years and his 10th year on Tour, Tomoharu Otsuki caught up with 21 years old young star Tomohiro Ishizaki with 7 birdies and 2 bogeys. Scored 66 and became co-leaders heading into final Sunday at 12 under total.

"I have playing really good golf for past 3 days. I am really confident on my game."

Last week at SMBC VISA Taiheiyo Masters, he started off as a leader on R1 then finished the tournament as 7th. Tomoharu seems to be in good condition, but he has bigger reason for his successful performance on his 3rd challenge on Dunlop Phoenix. He has learned how to deal with this tough course by his mentor's advices.

He was invited to his mentor, Toru Taniguchi's winter practice camp at Phoenix CC last February. Toru's team gathers at Phoenix CC on his birthday week. They all celebrate Toru's 52nd birthday on February 10th at the club house.

"During the round, Toru wants to play it seriously just like a tournament. His passion for golf is really hot. So, even on private rounds, he wants to play as if it was a tournament. But after the rounds, he is so kind and takes really good care of us and teaches us on short games and putting technics. We learn so much from just observing how he plays. I cannot appreciate enough for what he has done for me."

If Tomoharu could win this week, that will be the best way to send his appreciation to his mentor.
"There are so many big names on tournament winner's list. If I could become one of them, that would be excellent. This is one tournament that every professional golfer dreams of winning."

It will be his first time to play in the final group for Tomohiro.
"I know I will be very nervous, so I will try to keep my game under that pressure."

The tough mentality that is taught by his mentor Toru Taniguchi will absolutely back him up tomorrow.