Australian Wins In Japan

Promising young Australian, Greg Norman, 22, made his first appearance in Japan this week and captured a two-stroke victory in the 36-hole Kuzuha International. This was Norman's second tournament title since turning professional a year ago.

He sprung onto the Australian scene with a spectacular victory in the 1976 West Lakes Classic. He also finished third in last year's Australian Open.

Played at the Kuzuha Public Golf Course in Osaka, Norman emerged from a three-way tie after the opening round. He posted a 66 on the second day and coasted to a comfortable victory, thanks in large part to a five-birdie 31 on the front nine.

Norman held off Japan's Kikuo Ara, who had another stellar performance finishing second on 137. Kenji Arai Mori and Australian Billy Dunk shared third another shot back.

The total prize money was 10 million Japanese Yen. Norman put two million in his pocket for the victory. The proceeds were paid in cash and Norman recalled, "I remember sitting on a bed with my roommate Guy Wolstesnhogme in this hotel room with like a zillion yen all over the place. I thought I'd never need to work another day."