Mark Hensby’s breakthrough victory on PGA Tour Champions
Hensby – photo Getty Images
Mark Hensby has today won his first title on the PGA Tour Champions with a playoff victory over the Korean Charlie Wi at the Invited Celebrity Classic in Dallas, the pair locked in battle over four extra holes with both finding water at various stages before Hensby’s par to seal victory at the 4th playoff hole.
For the Melbourne born, Tamworth raised but now US domiciled, Hensby, it was his first win anywhere since victory at the Scandinavian Masters in 2005, a season which also saw him as a member of the Presidents Cup side.
“I didn’t look at the board until 16 and then I saw I was tired for the lead, and to be honest I didn’t think I was anywhere near it.
“Then when I got on 18 and I probably hit the best shot of the day when I had to because I saw Charlie made birdie, it was an up-and-down day, and obviously six hours to play today, so it was pretty slow out there. But just tried to stay patient, and then once I knew I still had a chance, obviously the grind went back into place.”
Hensby earns US$300,000 for his win and moves to 3rd on the Charles Schwab money list behind David Toms and Steve Stricker.
“You know, obviously after last year I wasn’t going to play anymore, and then coming out and having a good start this year, it’s nice to obviously win on this Tour,” added the 51 year old. “I think when you win anywhere these days, it’s an accomplishment. Yeah, I’m happy. I mean, I’m tired today but happy. I didn’t have my best today, but overall it was exciting.
“Obviously now I can set a schedule. I know what I’m going to get in now. That’s obviously the best part of it.
“I think the harsh reality of this Tour in general is it’s hard for guys like me to get out here. You write to tournament directors and it’s pretty much an instant no or a no response, which is kind of a little sad, so to speak. Now at least I don’t have to worry about that and I can just go on with my business and make my schedule how I want and play where I want.”
Hensby was playing his 15th PGA Tour Champions but it has only been this season where he has enjoyed sufficient status to gain regular starts. This season he has been runner-up and third in two of his four previous starts so the win while not totally unexpected was reward for some very good play.
Hensby’s career and life story was beautifully captured in this recent article by PGA Tour contributor Doug Milne
A 3rd place at the US Senior Open last year was the catalyst for the status he now enjoys.
Richard Green finished in a share of 4th place and will pocket a cheque for US$106,000 and move him inside the top 20 on the Schwab points table. Green has made an encouraging start to his PGA Tour Champions career after leading the field at the Tour School last year. The Lefthander finished 3rd in his very first start as a cardholder in Morocco in January.
