Katayama Continues to Rise at Phoenix Open

Shingo Katayama has overcome self-doubt and a strong field to take a six-shot lead into the final round of the Dunlop Phoenix Open in Miyazaki, Japan.

Katayama shot a 5-under-par 66 to extend his lead over American Bob May (66) and Scotland’s Andrew Coltart (68), who each reside in second place at 10-under-par. Northern Ireland’s Darren Clarke is tied for fourth, seven shots back, while American Edward Fryatt is eight off the lead entering the final round.

Katayama, who wears a cowboy hat on the course, shot down the flagsticks on Saturday. The Japanese player carded six birdies in the third round. He said the key to his round was an 18-foot par save at the 6th, which settled him down and promptly led to three straight birdies.

‘I think I gained momentum when I sank a five-meter putt on the 6th hole,’ said Katayama, who played alongside Clarke and Coltart on Saturday. ‘You have to control yourself under pressure when you are playing for the title, and I can not get rid of this pressure. I’ll be very happy if I can become only a third Japanese champion here, but it’s not easy.’

Katayama is trying to join Jumbo Ozaki (three times) and Tommy Nakajima as the only Japanese players to win their country’s biggest event. The 27-year-old entered the third round with a four-shot advantage, but said he expected to fade over the weekend. He’s now just 18 holes from proving himself wrong.