James Kingston successfully defended his South African Senior Open title on Friday as he held off Chris Williams to claim the title for the second time in his career.

Kingston, who also won the South African Open Championship title in 2007, was full of smiles as he finished as the leader of the pack on the final day at Plettenberg Bay Country Club. Winning the SA Senior Open for the second time meant a great deal to him: “It was gratifying after working so hard at my game, which I can feel is taking shape. It’s also special to see old friends again and players who I’ve have known for many years.”

Kingston defended his title five shots ahead of runner up Williams, who has finished second to James in the last two SA Senior Opens.

Kingston closed with a three-under-par 69, while Williams carded a closing 67, which was not enough to rein in the eventual winner. Grant Muller’s 75 gave him third place, one ahead of Doug McGuigan, who signed for a 73.