(Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, golf journalist) ○… “Win alone”.
Juvic Pagunsan (Philippines) made headlines by winning without a caddy at the Japan Professional Golf Tour Organization (JGTO) Mizuno Open (total prize money 80 million yen) held on the 30th at Setonakai Golf Course in Okayama, Japan (par 72). He shot 4 under par on the final day to secure an imposing victory in 3 shots (17 under par, 199 strokes). At 43 years old, this is his first victory in 10 years since joining the JGTO. He won a winner’s prize of 12 million yen (122 million KRW) and secured a place in the grand Open Championship to be held in England in July.
Pagunsan was carrying only 11 golf clubs. Due to COVID-19 prevention guidelines, he was not allowed to use a caddy and carried his golf bag himself throughout the three rounds. To minimize weight, he packed a driver, a utility club, 5, 7 and 9 irons, four wedges (pitch, 50°, 52°, 58°) and a putter. Interestingly, on the 16th hole (par 3), he traveled 198 yards, usually the distance for a 6-iron, and made birdie with a 7-iron. He applauded: “I played adjusting the strength several times.”
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