Augusta, Georgia (AFP) - Japan's talented teenage golfer Ryo Ishikawa made one stroke under par 71 on Friday pm, in the 75th Masters first round only to hear the news of his homeland again rocked by an earthquake.
Nearly half an hour after "teed off" and half the world away from where he competed, SR 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocked the same region in Japan which was devastated by the earthquake and tsunami SR 9.0 scale last March that killed at least 12,500 people.
"I do not know about that. That's news to me. I think it's very serious. I was worried when it seemed we could not calm the situation. I am a little worried, "Ishikawa said shortly after completing the rotation.
In the first round, Ishikawa created the "birdies" on the par-3 fourth, scored more than one par on the par-4 seventh, but replied with "birdies" on 8 and 9 to make the round at 2 under par.
One birdies on the par-5 13th followed by a number of more than one par on the par-4 par-3 fourteenth and sixteenth to let him level with Tiger Woods among the other 71 or six pounds of lead.
"I understand if people, especially in Sendai, living like in hell, and I will be happy to demonstrate the energy and power of what can be brought golf," says Ishikawa who plan to return to Japan after the tournament.
Ishikawa (19) expect their business in this Masters tournament inspired the people of Japan and he donated the prize money tournaments throughout the year to help victims of disaster.
"I'd be delighted to give the spirit of the people, especially those who suffer in Japan," says Ishikawa.
"I hope this will contribute to these people so that they are brave and they can re-run in their hiudp. I believe in the power of sport can bring people affected by disaster. I will do my best to bring happiness to these people. "
Ishikawa goal is to send 200 million yen (2.4 million dollars) in prize money donations this year as 100,000 yen (1,200 dollars) for each "birdies".
"My emotions jumbled. But, at the same time as a professional golfer that's what I needed to do. I am happy that whatever I do will be to encourage people in Japan, "he said. (*)
