Tropical Storm Washes Out Saturday Play at LPGA Event in Japan

Torrential rains and strong winds force cancellation of third round at Toto Japan Classic

Shiga, Japan - Saturday's play at the Toto Japan Classic was washed out due to a tropical storm that brought torrential rains and strong winds to the Shiga Prefecture. The third round of the tournament was scheduled to begin at 6:45 a.m. local time, but was postponed at 5:45 a.m. due to the severe weather conditions.

Tournament officials said that the course was unplayable due to the standing water and high winds. The greens were also too wet to allow for putting, and the fairways were too waterlogged to allow for proper footing.

The cancellation of Saturday's play is a major setback for the tournament, which is one of the most prestigious events on the LPGA Tour. The tournament is now scheduled to resume on Sunday with the third and fourth rounds being played back-to-back.

LPGA officials say they are hopeful the tournament can be completed on Sunday

LPGA officials said that they are hopeful the tournament can be completed on Sunday, but that they will continue to monitor the weather conditions. If the weather does not improve, the tournament may be shortened to 54 holes.

The Toto Japan Classic is a 72-hole stroke play tournament that is played on the par-72 Shiga Golf Club. The tournament is co-sanctioned by the LPGA Tour and the Japan LPGA Tour.

Nasa Hataoka leads the tournament after two rounds

Nasa Hataoka of Japan leads the tournament after two rounds with a 6-under-par 138. Hataoka is one stroke ahead of Hinako Shibuno of Japan and two strokes ahead of Jiyai Shin of South Korea.

A number of top players are in contention for the title, including world No. 1 Jin Young Ko of South Korea, who is tied for fourth place at 3-under-par 141.