61st The Crowns becoming 54-hole reduced race is facing a dramatic situation. 9 players were not able to finish the 2nd Round play, and at this point co-leaders are in 5-way tie, and two "old boys" who are great rivals have joined in. Katsumasa Miyamoto and Shingo Katayama, both 48 years old and from same Nippon University. Both having the chance to make record, if they win. Katsumasa is defending champion after the tournament being cancelled last year. If he defends, it will be since Jumbo Ozaki in 1997.
"Luckily or not, Shingo and I will play in the same group on Sunday. We are in the same group for all 3 rounds", grinned Katsumasa.

On the other hand, Shingo has won here in 2004 and 2006, so he will be looking for V3 at Wago.
"We are not going be making a dead heat battle, I hope both of us will play well and give great effect on each other. We the same age buddies will encourage each other to do well. It is really grateful that we could compete to win at age like us", smiled Shingo.

Katsumasa made an eagle on Par 4 8th on his 1st Round, and he went to make another one today and scored 64.
"I will give myself a score of 100. The very dependable club house caddy helped me win here 2 years ago has been supporting me again. She reads the line perfectly. With her help and getting to hole in so many putts, anyone could score great. Especially 3 straight birdies from 10th were 5-meter with left break, 5-meter to right break and 3-meter straight. I just listened to my caddy's advice and it all went in. But this tough wind makes Wago even more difficult. Since 11th hole is right next to 18th, I felt like going home at 11th. I am exhausted. Wago get tougher every year as I get older."

Then Shingo who has won here twice made a sinical remark.
"That's because Katsumasa only has won here once. Excuse me for reminding you but I have played here few dozens of times and those experiences helps me out."

Both "old boys" agrees it is suitable for them as the tournament got to 54-holes.
"We could have the chance to win among the young players since it became short term battle. Since there is a chance for win, I am looking very forward for tomorrow", said Shingo.

"Luckily or not, since it was shortened to 54-hole, the top of the leader board is quite crowded, but I will try to play focused as last 2 days and make the best of the chance I have", answered Katsumasa.