Katsuyoshi Tomori

First Japanese professional to enter European Tour Qualifying School, graduated 1996. Moved up from 80th in Volvo Order of Merit to 47th in second season in Europe. Ended 1999 in 66th place, but came close to becoming the first Japanese golfer to win since Isao Aoki in the European Open at Sunningdale in 1983 when challenging for The Sarazen World Open. Eventually had to settle for share of second place behind Thomas Bjorn. Arrived with strong credentials as Japanese World Cup player and winner of 1994 Mitsubishi Galant Open and 1995 Japan Match Play title. Defeated Open champion Paul Lawrie in dramatic style in the Alfred Dunhill Cup at St.Andrews in 1999 - making a birdie three on the first extra hole after Lawrie had holed out for an eagle two at the 18th. . In his debut tournament on the Japan Senior Tour in 2004 he finished in second place. His best year was 1995, when he earned ¥86,693,831, which placed him 5th on the Japan Tour Money List.