Mark Hensby shares 4th place at US Senior Open
Despite a disappointing final day, it was not all doom for Hensby as his birdie putt on the 7th indicates – image USGA
Mark Hensby’s bid for the most significant title in his professional career has fallen short after a final round of 73 at the US Senior Open saw him finish in a share of 4th place and six shots behind the eventual winner Padraig Harrington.
Hensby started the final round tied with Harrington and Stewart Cink, but a bogey at the very first hole today saw him fall two behind immediately when Harrington birdied and although he made the turn in even par 36, he was three shots from the lead and the horse had essentially bolted.
Bogeys at the 11th and 12th were more cause for concern, especially with others making a bid from behind, but a series of pars over the closing six holes including an impressive par from an awkward lie in the fairway bunker at the last were enough for the now 54 year old (his birthday was today) to record an impressive share of 4th place with Thomas Bjorn.
“Yeah, I’m going to be honest, today I just got off to a bad start,” said Hensby. “We just hit a few clubs that probably weren’t the right clubs and hit it in some bad spots where it’s hard to two-putt. Just couldn’t get any momentum going. Just couldn’t get the putter right today.
“As I said last night in the media tent, when you play with two — one Hall of Famer, and Stewart Cink obviously a very accomplished player, it’s always fun. You always learn something from them, what they do.
“I felt comfortable, I must admit. Obviously, we all get nervous, but I just didn’t get off to the start I needed to really contend. Overall, I’m happy for the week. I had a good week.”
Hensby’s cheque for the week was US$165,000.
Steve Alker finished alone in 7th place, and Cameron Percy continued his recent good form with a share of 9th place following his final round of 66.
As for Harrington (pictured below), he adds a second US Senior Open title to his three regular tour major titles (two Open Championships and one PGA Championship) and brings his total of professional wins worldwide to 42.
The winner – Padraig Harrington – image USGA
