Boo Weekley also won the Heritage Classic title last year

Boo Weekley successfully defended the Heritage Classic at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, winning by three shots.

The 34-year-old American held a three shot lead overnight and closed with a level-par 71 to secure the title.

Weekley posted a 15-under total of 269 to become the first player to win consecutive titles at Hilton Head since Davis Love III in 1992.

Fellow American Anthony Kim shared second place with the 2006 winner, Australian Aaron Baddeley.

"I slept good last night but protecting the lead I didn't hit it very well today," Weekley said.

"I actually made some good key putts and I got it up and down a couple of times. I just struggled.

"Luckily I got it in and I reckon everybody else must have struggled a little bit today."

Englishman Nick Dougherty lost his chance of a career-best finish on American soil when a family illness led to him pulling out before Sunday's final round.

It followed the earlier withdrawal of fellow Englishman Justin Rose with back trouble.