Bandurak does it again to reach second Powerade final

John Bandurak and Stuart Boyle had another battle royale at the PGA Assistants’ Championship Midland qualifier at Henley Golf & Country Club.

Last year Bandurak, of Great Barr Golf Club, pipped Boyle, of The Belfry, by one shot in the same event.

But this time they could not be separated as they tied for top spot after carding two over par rounds of 75 in bad weather.

They finished one shot ahead of Ryan Burton, of Solihull’s Ladbrook Park Golf Club.

And now they - along with 14 other qualifiers from the event - will play in the Assistants’ £32,000 FootJoy-supported final, which will be held on August 7-9 at Coventry Golf Club.

Bandurak returns to the final and wants to stage a stronger bid this time after failing to make the cut last year.

He said: “Stuart provided a really good challenge again just like last year.

“Twelve months ago, we were playing together and I narrowly beat him.

“We weren’t together this time but it was no surprise to see him up there on the same score.

“I’m pleased for him as he’s a nice bloke.

“But I didn’t prepare for last year’s final as I would’ve liked.

“This time though, the venue is only half an hour away so I’m going to get down there and have a good look at it this time.”

Bandurak was also third in last year’s national PGA Fourball Championship.

He added: “The form from last season still seems to be there so that’s good.

“I’m not disappointed with my score as the rain and wind were horrendous and made life very difficult.

“So I’m not surprised no-one went under par on the day.