Japan’s Azuma Yano put himself in contention to become Asia’s first major

Japan’s Azuma Yano put himself in contention to become Asia’s first major golf champion in just his second major event, firing a five-under par 65 second round Saturday at the US Open.

The 31-year-old standout who fired an opening-round 72 Friday at Bethpage Black took advantage of perfect conditions to share fourth on three-under 137 after 36 holes, five strokes behind US pace-setter Ricky Barnes.

Yano, who qualified for the event by finishing second on last year’s Japan Tour money list, has great confidence he can bring Asia a major breakthrough.

“Well, I have a big chance to win,” Yano said. “I feel like that. Even though I’m Asian, I can do it.

What is that supposed to mean? OF COURSE YOU CAN!

“And the feeling is very good. And my luck is coming out. I believe in it. I think I have a big chance to win, be the first Asian winner, and I keep on playing with this feeling,” added Yano, who has three career victories on the Japanese Tour.