Allenby to defend PGA title

Victorian Robert Allenby has set his sights on a fifth Australian PGA Championship crown after agreeing to return and defend his title at Coolum in December.

The world No.17, who won the event 12 months ago and dedicated his victory to the memory of his late mother Sylvia, who had lost her battle with cancer earlier in 2009, is looking forward to trying to claim the Joe Kirkwood Cup yet again.

"I really enjoy getting back to the Hyatt Regency Coolum and this year has the added bonus of defending my Australian PGA title," said Allenby who hadn't originally entered last year's field but was able to do so with the help of a sponsor's invite.

"Obviously last year's win was an emotional one for me and one that will hold significance for a long time to come."

"Despite my current injury, my form so far this year has been really good and I hope that I can have a good run of events leading into this year's PGA."

"I can always find room at home for my fifth Joe Kirkwood Cup!"

The 39-year-old is recovering from injury after he recently slipped on the deck of his boat during a fishing trip in the Bahamas and had to undergo knee surgery, forcing him out of the US PGA Championship.

The injury wasn't the first that Allenby has suffered this year while aboard his boat, having also hurt his left wrist and forearm when he was holding the wheel and the craft ran aground.

Apart from last year, when he prevailed by four shots thanks to a superb five-under 66 on the final day, Allenby has also won the PGA title in 2000 and 2001 at Royal Queensland as well as 2005 at Coolum, which will host this year's event from December 9-12.