Kasumigaseki Golf Club

Last night went out to a great Japanese Steak House. Modeled after Bennihana, but much better we all had a great dinner.

Friday saw us out at Kasumigaseki GC which is right next to Tokyo GC.  Kasumigaseki is no longer on the Top 100 list, but it should be. The four of us thought that it was a great course with very interesting fairway bunkers, like Tokyo GC, and elevated and well protected greens. The greens today were VERY fast as there was a member tournament being played while we were on the course.

One of the interesting features of both the Tokyo courses is the caddies.

Most of the caddies are women and they drive these electric handcarts that hold all four bags. They speak very little English, but are very hard working and very friendly. Despite having to take care of all four bags, they kept us moving right along. Both of the two rounds took only slightly longer than 4 hours, plus the stop for lunch. Custom in Japan is to stop for about 45 minutes after nine holes for a nice lunch. Very civilized!

Weather was much cooler today and we all started out with either sweaters or a vest.

Once again, the matches were hard fought with the following results:

• Durham: 2/0/1
• Cecil: 1/1/1
• Rathbone: 1/1/1
• Slater: 0/2/1

Cumulative results after two rounds:

• Durham:  4/0/2
• Cecil: 2/2/2
• Rathbone: 1/3/2
• Slater: 1/3/2

The par three's were again very interesting.

This one had a large tree in the center that was almost falling into the pond, and would have were it not for the extensive framework that kept it upright (sort of)!

We had a long trip after golf to Osaka; 2 hours in the van to Tokyo train station followed by a 2.5 hour bullet train ride to Osaka. Apparently the Bullet Trains are not designed for passengers with luggage and golf clubs. We had quite a time getting everything on and off the train. Finally made it to the hotel and a light, late dinner. Tomorrow morning we're off to Nauro GC reputed to be one of the toughest courses not just in Japan, but in the world! Not only is it tight and long, it is very hilly so we should all be exhausted when we're done. Fortunately no travel tomorrow as we have another night in Osaka.

All for tonight!