KOCHI, Japan, Nov 24 (Reuters) -- Japan's Shingo Katayama secured his third straight money title on the Japanese tour after making the cut at the Casio World Open on Friday.

Katayama, instantly recognisable with his trademark cowboy hat, won three tournaments on the men's JGTO Tour this year and has earned 169 million yen (US$1.45 million).

"It's amazing to win it again," the 33-year-old told reporters. "It's been a difficult season with a knee injury and what with a bit of a slump in the summer."

Katayama fired a 68 in Friday's second round on Japan's Shikoku island to go into the weekend four off the lead at six under par.

Copyright 2006 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.