Shiho Kuwaki, Nasa Hataoka share 2-stroke lead in Japan

Shiho Kuwaki continued her phenomenal performance at the Toto Japan Classic in Omitama, Japan, carding her second consecutive 7-under-par 65 on Friday. This brilliant round allowed Kuwaki to claim a share of the lead, alongside fellow Japanese golfer Nasa Hataoka, who shot a 66 on Friday. Both players are tied at 14-under, two strokes ahead of China’s Xiyu Lin (66), Japan’s Mone Inami (68), and first-round leader Akie Iwai (69) at the Taiheiyo Club, Minori Course.

Kuwaki demonstrated remarkable consistency with her shots, securing seven birdies, including the final two holes, without any bogeys. Reflecting on her performance, Kuwaki expressed satisfaction with her steady play and numerous birdie opportunities. She attributed her success to a positive feeling she experienced during the previous round, which she managed to maintain throughout.

Meanwhile, Hataoka showcased her skills with five out of her seven birdies on the front nine. Although she faced a setback with a bogey on the 10th hole, Hataoka quickly recovered with birdies on the 12th and 17th holes, positioning herself for her third overnight lead or co-lead of the 2023 season. While pleased with her putting, Hataoka acknowledged the need to improve her long game and expressed gratitude for the familiarity of the Taiheiyo Club and the support from her home crowd.

Despite some shoulder discomfort, Lin managed to achieve her second bogey-free round of the tournament and eighth of the season. Surprised by her performance due to the initial struggles during practice, Lin commended the improvement in her shoulder throughout the day and emphasized the quality of her shots.

Inami also impressed with her second bogey-free round of the tournament. Sora Kamiya of Japan sits alone in sixth place, one shot behind the leading pack at 11-under. Defending champion Gemma Dryburgh of Scotland currently resides in a tie for 22nd place after shooting a 69.