MIN-JEE LEADS BY THREE AT JAPAN CLASSIC

SHIGA: Lee Min-jee (pic) shot an eight-under 64 to take a three-shot lead after the second round of the Japan Classic.

Min-jee seeking her second LPGA title this year, had eight birdies in a bogey-free round yesterday at the Seta Golf Club to improve to 13-under 131. She is three strokes ahead of local favourite Sakura Koiwai, who had seven birdies and a lone bogey for a 66.

The 22-year-old Min-jee from Perth, Australia, started with a birdie at the par-five first hole and took advantage of the day’s prime scoring conditions with three straight birdies on Nos. 13-15.

“I’m probably hitting more fairways and giving myself more opportunities to hit it closer to the pin,” Min-jee said.

“I think my putting has definitely improved this year. Overall it just comes down to everything being a little bit better.”

The 20-year old Koiwai, in just her second season on the JLPGA Tour, finds herself as the leading Japanese contender and playing in today’s final group.

“Everyone has a chance to win because you are looking at many birdies here. Anyone can come from behind,” said Koiwai.

“I just have to concentrate on my golf and I have to make as many birdies as possible.”

Nasa Hataoka, also of Japan, shot a 69 and was tied for third with Shin Ji-yai (69) of South Korea.

Overnight leader Ryu So-yeon struggled with her game and shot a 73 that included three bogeys and a pair of birdies.

Nelly Korda, who won last week’s Taiwan Championship, had a 69 and was tied for 18th place.

The LPGA stop in Japan is the fourth of five consecutive tournaments across Asia.