Q. All right, joined here after the first round of the LOTTE Championship by Nasa. Great round today; 7-under. You played your second nine, Hoakalei's first nine, lights out; a lot birdies. Can you talk a bit about how you hit your stride in that second nine?
NASA HATAOKA: I'm not feeling great on the range this morning, but me and my caddie talks a lot about my -- about the course management, so it works good.
Back nine, back side I hitting great putts, so that's why I shoot low score today.
Q. Now that you have played a round on the course, obviously the pro-am and practice as well, what are you looking to do this week? Do you think it's a ball-strikers' course? Is putting really important? What sticks out about needing to excel?
NASA HATAOKA: I think ball's really need on this golf course, especially this windier situation. I just pick the right club and right swing, so...
And then also it's very strong grain on green, so I have to hit really well stroke on the green.
Q. You played with Rio and Miyu today, two really strong rookies, both pretty neck and neck for the Rookie of the Year Award. Can you talk a bit about what it was like playing with them and what it's like seeing some strong rookies from Japan?
NASA HATAOKA: Yeah, they are playing so good. They are good ball-strikers. They are consistent. So, yeah, it was really fun to play with them. I'm looking forward play tomorrow, too.
FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports