Hendriksen poised for Play-Off return

Paul Hendriksen has targeted a PGA Play-Off place as his final ambition this summer as he attempts to consolidate a top-three placing in the Marston’s Order of Merit next week.

As winner of the West Region Championship he lies second to double Welsh Professional champion Sion Bebb (Morlais Castle) as the pair go head-to-head for top spot in the Finale at The Point at Polzeath from September 24-25.

He has just returned from his honeymoon to win his first Devon PGA event at Okehampton, so remains in top form.

“I have qualified for the Play Offs in four of the last five seasons and nothing would please me more than to reach this year’s finals in Turkey,” he said.

“The incentive for the players who do well is enormous and there is no greater thrill than teeing up in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth as I did last year. That is everyone’s incentive.”

Hendriksen (Ivybridge) played in a Challenge Tour event in Scotland this year and turned down another invitation to Ireland as the dates clashed with the West championship.

Bebb experienced the European Tour until 2010 and would welcome another shot at the age of 50 although trying to qualify for the Seniors Tour this winter is his main objective. He last won the OOM 17 years ago.

David Dixon (Enmore Park) is always a formidable opponent, has been on top form on several different stages this summer and lies third. New Welsh Professional champion Toby Hunt (St Mellons), who has enjoyed an outstanding season, follows.

The next three spots are filled by former Europro champion Kevin Harper (East Devon), who has won twice in the last two weeks, 2004 PGA champion Scott Drummond and defending OOM champion Ashley Mansell (Clevedon).

Regional manager Robert Moss said: “The challenge for the three top places promises to make it one of the most exciting finales for several years.”