Nozomi Kawahara claims maiden Japan Tour title

BY Bruce Young | Japan Tour | 2003 Georgia Tokai Classic | Wrap | 12 Oct 2003

Nozomi Kawahara today won his first event on the Japan Golf Tour when he held on for a narrow one shot victory over Tsuyoshi Yoneyama and Japan Golf Tour star, Shingo Katayama. Although this was his maiden win he had finished second here at the Miyoshi Golf Club near Nagoya in 2002 and was fourth in 2001 suggesting it is very much a golf course that suits his game.

Kawahara had taken a one shot lead over Daisuke Maruyama, Ricki Kawagishi and Katayama into the final round and, although caught early in his round by Katayama, he was able to draw clear with three late birdies to edge out Katayama and Yoneyama, who closed with a 68.

Kawahara had played well earlier in the season but his best finish in his last eleven starts had been 25th, so this was something of a turnaround in form. That he was able to hold off a player the calibre of Katayama was impressive, especially when his first win was on the line.

For Yoneyama it continues a solid but frustrating year as this was his third runner up placing. He is, however, still enjoying a very good season in 9th position on the money list. Katayama also continues his very good year which has included a win at the PGA Championship and he is now in 6th place on the money list.

The only Australasians to make it to the weekend were Richard Lee who closed in equal 45th with Craig Jones in 60th.

The money list is still comfortably led by American Todd Hamilton with Brendan Jones the leading Australian in 7th position.