Khan to defend London Open crown

Past BMW PGA Championship hero Simon Khan is just one of three European Tour winners set to contest this week’s London Open – the East region’s first Order of Merit tournament in 2017.

Khan will be aiming to defend the title he won at West Essex Golf Club 12 months ago when he beat Chase Davis (Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel) in a play-off.

The 2010 Wentworth winner will be joined at West Essex by Ray Russell (Centurion Club) and Mark Davis (Thorndon Park) – both of whom secured European Tour successes.

Adding further depth to the London Open will be seasoned European Tour campaigner Rob Coles and Andrew Marshall, runner-up in the 2006 Johnnie Walker Championship at Glenagles.

Gordon Campbell, PGA in England (East) regional secretary, said: “There is always a big buzz around the start of our Order of Merit series. To have such a strong field for the first event of 2017 just adds to the excitement.

“It’s great, too, that Simon Khan is able to defend his title. West Essex presented a really good test for the field last year and I am sure we are in for another thrilling renewal this week.”

As well as the individual tournament for leading professional, the London Open is being played under the same format as the Dunhill Links. Each professional has a partner and the respective pairs will be also contesting a better-ball event.