Ryo Ishikawa and Rikuya Hoshino went head-to-head today as they were having a "long drive contest" of their own during the tournament. This powerful battle gave Ryo a great momentum and made 7 birdies and 2 bogeys to score 66, gave him a boost to get himself in good position as 3T at total 11 under, 2 shots back of the leader going on to final Sunday.

Just before the starting time, Hideto Taniguchi WD, and it became Ryo and Rikuya pair. Rikuya has been one of the Representative for the Tokyo Olympics and is known for his distance.

"He may be younger than me, but I admire him always", said Ryo. He went on to having "long drive contest" with Rikuya during the round today.
"On Par 5s, we both made maximum swings. He drives further, but I was able to over drive him 2 or 3 times."

On 556 yards Par 5 18th, Ryo over drove Rikuya, and had 207 yards remaining.
"I think my tee shot was around 335 or 340 yards", recalled Ryo. He got to the green in two and finished with a birdie.

On 13th, where new bunker was placed on the right side.
"Since it was newly placed to make us challenge, I thought we should try. In order to fly over it, you need to carry 316 yards. My shot barely made it. I found my ball around 318 or 319 yards."
Ryo seemed to be very excited and joyful.

Ryo has been working on his swing change for about year and a half.
"I know that distance is not the only fact. It must gain distance and also remain in the targeted area. I think I got really good feeling today."

Having the "driving contest" with Rikuya has given Ryo many to learn and also a great position going into final Sunday.
"I am really looking forward for tomorrow. I am excited to see what will occur on my pursuit for the victory."
If Ryo wins, it will be his 2nd KBC Augusta victory, and will be his 18 th Tour victory (last won in 2019).