Japan's major champion Hinako Shibuno declared she is ready to contend for the inaugural USD$750,000 Simone Asia Pacific Cup title after rediscovering her form at the recent Women's British Open.
The 23-year-old, nicknamed the ‘Smiling Cinderella’, put a disappointing run of results behind her by finishing outright third in the major event that launched her stardom three years ago.
Before that, Hinako had missed five cuts in her last seven tournaments.
With her confidence boosted, Hinako is eager to carry the momentum into Pondok Indah Golf Course this week where she is set to do battle with fellow major winners Lydia Ko of New Zealand, Hyo Joo Kim and So Yeon Ryu of South Korea in the 44-woman contest.
"I think it's fair to say that that I've gotten back some of my form," said Hinako.
"I was able to put together four good rounds (at the British) Open, that's pleasing indeed.
"But what's important is to stabilise my form by getting a good run of results. I'm still trying to get my mental game to click well with my performance on the course. "
Hinako, a winner of six Japan LPGA Tour titles, is also excited about competing in the Ladies Asian Tour (LAT) Series for the first time.
"I agreed with the concept of supporting the growth of women's golf in this region and decided to participate. I'm really happy to be part of this week's tournament," said Hinako.
Hinako will have an added motivation to do well this week as she will be joining forces with her younger sister Kiriko, 19, for the first time where they look to mount a serious challenge for the team title.
Kiriko is still an amateur and plays collegiate golf in Japan.
"I'm so looking forward to it. It's going to be interesting how we're going to fare as a team. Individually, I will try my best not to lose to her!" laughed Hinako.
Kiriko described her maiden experience of playing alongside her elder sister as "refreshing".
"It's really refreshing. When I entered the golf scene as a junior, we never get to compete together because of our age gap," said Kiriko.
"Being four years apart means we didn't get to compete in the same division."
The 54-hole event, which tees off from August 18-20 at the Pondok Indah Golf Course, offers a competitive total prize fund of USD $750,000 that will be enjoyed by all 37 professionals from the 44-player field as it is a no-cut event.
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