13th year professional Ryutaro Nagano is again reaching closer to his most wanted 1st victory. He made a good start by finishing solo 3rd, 1 shot behind the leader on 1R. He says, having spectators gave him really good motivation.

"I am from Kumamoto Prefecture, right next door, and I have many friends here in Miyazaki too, so I was happy to see them again."

Ryutaro made 3 straight birdies from 3rd hole and made 2 consecutive birdies on 7th & 8th and 13th &14th.

"When we have spectators at the course, he will be applauded for good shots and putts. That is what we professionals crave for."

He did face a trouble on 15th, where he shot into the right-side trees.

"I was afraid that it would turn out to be a bogey, but somehow I managed to save par."

In September, he was Top tie on the final round at Panasonic Open but lost against world's No.1 Amateur Keita Nakajima in the playoff. It is usual to be extra gentle to the player who loses, but that time was very special in negative way.

"I mean, it's sad but what could I do? Everybody was treating me like I was facing end of the world in front of me. I am not exaggerating. But gradually everybody seemed to forget about it and it was back to normal."

Ryutaro watched Keita Nakajima winning the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship and earing the ticket to The Masters next year.

"Keita is splendid. He has great vision and achieving them too."

Ryutaro is a "good spirited loser", and doesn't hesitate to praise 12 years younger amateur. No wonder all of his fans are wishing so much for his 1st victory.