Shunsuke Sonoda, a rookie on the Japan Golf Tour Association (JGTA) and a long-time student of the Nicklaus Golf Center at Omori, Tokyo, Japan, recently won the Gateway to The Open Mizuno Open Yomuiri Classic. Playing in only his fifth event as a professional, the 20-year-old Sonoda fired a closing 6-under par to win by 3-shots. By winning the Mizuno Open, Sonoda qualified to play in the Open Championship this week at St. Andrews.

Shun began golfing at the age of three and started working with Todd Baker, Lead Instruction at the Nicklaus Golf Center at Omori, at the age of ten - the same year Shun entered his first tournament. Since then, Sonoda has won over 12 events, placed in the Top 10 in many others, and is currently leading the JGTA in eagles and birdies per round, is 4th in Total Driving, is ranked 7th on the Tour, and is the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year. Sonoda is only the 4th rookie to win on the JPGA putting his name beside Massy Kuramoto, Tommy Nakajima and Ryo Ishikawa - a former high-school golf teammate.

Nicklaus Academies congratulates Shun on his achievements and his bright future. Nicklaus Academies also wants to recognize Todd Baker and the entire staff at the Nicklaus Golf Center Omori for their commitment to excellence.

For additional information, contact:
Ted Simons
Nicklaus Academies
ted.simons@nicklausacademies.com
+ 435.640.0839