Kiwi Michael Long has won the Australian PGA Seniors Championship in dramatic fashion, chipping in for birdie on the final hole to pip Peter Senior by one stroke at Richmond Golf Club outside Sydney.
In only his second event on the Ladbrokes Legends Tour, Long has now claimed the two biggest titles after last week’s Lincoln Place New South Wales Senior Open. It’s the first time in Long’s 30-year career he has recorded victories in consecutive weeks
Long recorded rounds of 65, 65 and 68 to finish at 12-under the card, one shot ahead of Senior at 11-under. A brilliant birdie on the 72nd hole from Long the only thing separating the pair.
“I am honoured to win the Australian PGA Seniors title, it’s pretty neat to win your association’s national title,” Long said.
It’s the second week in a row Long and Senior have duelled it out with Long prevailing by a single shot on both occasions.
“Everyone is competitive out here. I was a bit nervous with Peter chasing me but that’s what it’s all about. Competing against legends like Peter Senior is a dream, I actually can’t think of too many things better than that.”
Long now heads to the USA for the PGA Tour Champions Qualifying School as he attempts to obtain a card for the 2019 season.
US regular David McKenzie finished outright third on eight-under the card with Michael Harwood rounding out the top four on seven-under.
After an extremely successful tournament, the Australian PGA Seniors Championship will return to Richmond Golf Club in 2019 with the PGA of Australia and the Richmond club committed to ensuring the tournament has a regular home in the ensuing years.