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Diet whiskey is good for your golf
The Backyard Golf Society
Dan celebrates with the staff at Blue Sky Bar.
The Backyard boys had a very enjoyable day out at our regular Emerald
venue last Friday, Jan. 4. With a couple of guests joining us we had a full
compliment but still managed to get around in about 4 hours, good for this
time of year.
Leading the way this week was Dan ‘the Diet Whiskey Man’, who showed us all
the benefit of consuming diet famous grouse in large volumes. His score of
43 points included 2 blobs on the back nine and we have reliable reports
from his playing partners that he threw out the anchor or as we call it “did
a Jimmy” on those 2 holes to protect his ridiculously generous handicap. A
big drop in his quota can be expected from the PSC this week, but as Dan is
the guy who enters the scores on-line we will have to check he has not been
naughty in that regard!
Obviously a weight has been lifted off Dan’s shoulders this week with a
cheque finally making it into his bank account. Runner-up in the stableford
was JJ who had every reason to think he was in with a shout with 38 points
but Dan’s big score knocked that for six.
The near-pin prize went to Irish John, apparently the only player to even
stay on the green. El Tel won last week’s roll-over skin and 4 more to boot;
Irish John also had 4 skins with 3 to ‘The Diet Whiskey Man’, 3 to JJ, 2 to
Golden Trowel’s boyfriend, 1 to the returning Kit and 1 rolled over to next
week.
Some notable items from the round and after game soiree down the road; Irish
John snapped the shaft on his 6 iron without even hitting the ground (don’t
make steel shafts like they used to!); Martyn, The Quiet Man, was observed
tipping above his standard 200B fee to his caddy; Second Hand Bob is still
trying to catch up with Apple in Blue Sky in the chest area and Army John
continues to spiral down the pecking order in Blue Sky and is currently only
at number 6.
The Backyard golf society is a multi-denominational society that accepts
anyone based on 3 members voting them in. We are even considering letting
Manchester United supports play but they must buy a round in advance for the
privilege. Slow play is outlawed, members are strongly encouraged to partake
in the after-game beverage consumption activities and listening to The Quiet
Man after he has had a few is just one of the occupational hazards that
comes with the club.
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Barry boots out the old, kicks in the new
PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society
Barry Copestake.
Sunday, Dec. 16, Green Valley -
Stableford
A Flight
1st Pat Regan (13) 40pts
2nd Dave Shelton (8) 39pts
3rd Yui Bietry (11) 39pts
B Flight
1st Keith McLachlan (21) 41pts
2nd Claude Harder (16) 38pts
3rd Jez Lees (20) 36pts
Near Pins: No 4 Thierry Petrement, No 9 Dave Boran, No 12 Colin
Davis, No 16 John Nicholas
The scribe eluded to the fact that the ‘Aussie Ace’ was a sizzling, and he
showed it again this Sunday at the Green Valley layout with a man of the
match 40 points and B Flight victory. Keith was followed by nice guy Claude
Harder of the resurgent order. Claude held off Jez ‘the Principal’ Lees with
a fine 38 points supporting a two point margin. It could have been slightly
different if Jez had scored a point or two on the last hole!
Irishman Pat Regan edged the tandem of Dave Shelton and the Pattaya belle
Yui Bietry in A Flight with a fine 40 points. The ladies before gentlemen
rule was cast aside as Dave’s maths counted up better on the inward nine to
capture the second spot.
Peter ‘the Diver’ Henshaw returned to the action with a torn knee ligament,
but sadly had to give up on the 13th hole - an excellent effort. Thierry
Petrement, Andy Keller, Jim Bell and Jan Erikssen divvied up the ‘2’s pot.
Peter Kelly.
Finally most of our regular readers must
have read about the exploits of one of our top players Peter Kelly; Peter
today won the very prestigious under 18’s Orange Bowl Junior Golf
Invitational tournament held in Florida USA with rounds of 65-68-66-66. This
was 13 shots clear of Jamie Lopez Rivarola from Argentina at 19 under. All
at Lewiinski’s wish Peter all the success for the future - absolutely
brilliant.
Monday, Dec. 31, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Barry Copestake (16) 39pts
2nd Pat Hanafin (13) 38pts
B Flight
1st Walter Beachli (17) 34pts
2nd Jorn Finnerup (28) 34pts
Barry ‘the boot’ Copestake, whose accomplishments have been lauded in this
column numerous times, made another marked move on his handicap as he kicked
out the old year with a best on the day 39 points and top spot in A Flight.
His effort overshadowed the fine showings of Irishman Pat ‘the big easy’
Hannifin’s 38 points while Aussie Jimmy ‘AK47’ Bell’s 37 points was good
only for the knowledge that he nearly made the podium.
The guys that are always there through thick and thin, the B Flighters, put
three players up for the two person podium places that had 34 points. The
Happiest was the always welcome, colourful and flamboyant Walter Beachli,
and the saddest Adrian Cook. Amidst it all was Jorn Finnerup who was neither
happy nor sad but simply had another Carlsberg.
Pat Hanafin and Gavin Culloty split the 2’s pot.
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Pattana C&A - Stableford
A Flight
1st JP Gasser (11) 40pts
2nd Max Scott (4) 40pts
3rd Nial Higgins (7) 40pts
B Flight
1st Frank Higgins (14) 34pts
2nd Jim Bell (15) 34pts
3rd Jerry McCarthy (14) 34pts
C Flight
1st Marlene Prudden (24) 35pts
2nd Mick Coughlan (23) 34pts
3rd Ian Higgins (22) 34pts
Well, as you can see, the new year started off with some exceptional scoring
and some quite remarkable statics for such a small golfing venue. First
there were 41 competitors including Higgins, Higgins and Higgins (no it’s
not a firm of barristers, it is a remarkable Irish family of society members
on holiday).
Let’s start with the father, Frank Higgins, who found himself in B Flight
despite being a very respectable 14 handicapper. Frank returned a rock solid
flight winning 37 points to start the ball rolling. This was two better than
Aussie Jimmy ‘AK47’ Bell and Jerry ‘the Irish Rover’ McCarthy; Jerry was
quickly shot down in the resulting count back.
Marlene, the better half of the Prudden partnership, overshadowed Brian who
was on the podium quite a bit last week with a steady flight winning 35
points. Right on Marlene’s well rounded heals were Mick Coughlan and wait
for it, Ian Higgins. Count back dictated that they climbed the podium in
that order and Ian was just happy to chip into the family kitty.
There was some top stuff in the premier flight as three men were stuck in a
logjam on 40 points. After the dust has settled it was J-P Gasser who
emerged the top man and Max Scott took the silver as the Higgins family made
it a winning trio as Ian filled the flight and duly chipped into the family
kitty.
Frank (it all helps) Higgins, and five other players shared the 2’s pot.
Friday, Jan. 4, Crystal Bay A&B - Stableford
A Flight
1st Tore Eliassen (15) 43pts
2nd Frank Higgins (14) 39pts
3rd Bob Watson (3) 38pts
B Flight
1st Barry Copestake (16) 38pts
2nd Jack Mouly (19) 34pts
3rd John Feehan (16) 33pts
C Flight
1st Joe Tynan (29) 38pts
2nd Mary Geogheoan (24) 31pts
3rd Barry Elphick (23) 31pts
The story of the day was Tore Eliassen and his A Flight 43 point lashing,
which topped Frank ‘it all helps’ Higgins (second trip to the pay window in
a week by the way) by 4 shots. Big hitting Aussie Bob Watson tided up the
flight with a near flawless 38 points. These three fine efforts made Aussie
Jimmy ‘AK47’ Bell and Max Scott’s excellent 37 point rounds look rather
ordinary.
Our title guy Barry ‘the Boot Copestake took the top spot in B Flight with a
fine 38 points; this was four clear of Jack Mouly. Irishman John Feehan and
Mike ‘the Welsh Wizard’ Jeffreys were a shot back with the luck of the Irish
prevailing.
Joe ‘sat nav’ Tynan was the big winner in C Flight with a excellent 37
points. This was six clear of a quartet made up of two guys and two ladies;
the pairing of Mary Geogheoan and Barry Elphick danced to the podium in that
order as Marlene Prudden and Jimmy ‘2 shots’ Elphick ran out of steam.
Nial ‘he had to be somewhere’ Higgins, Jon Haugen, Paul Heyworth and John
Feehan shared the 2’s pot
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya land Soi 1, Beach Rd Soi13/13 near
Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name
to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.
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Schramm shoots medal winning score at Eastern Star
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Rick Schramm, Wichai
and Chris Voller.
Monday, Dec. 24, Green Valley – Stableford
It was Christmas Eve and with nine groups booked
in we surprisingly got another eight names overnight and we hoped this would
not cause any problems when we got to the course. The car park was almost
full upon arrival and a few panic modes set in. Luckily the group in front
was 15 minutes ahead of schedule so this caused the efficient starters here
no problem at all with our start list.
There were three divisions out with the cut at 6-14, 15-19 and 20+ in
division 3. Playing off 6 and with a gross 39 on the front nine and 35 on
the back, Kari Kuparinen won Division 1 with 40 points. Well done Kari!
Simon Kendall off 7 was second with 37 points and Mike Chatt took third on
34.
Mauri Friman’s 35 points won Division 2, with Paul Butler beating Nick Pay
on a 19/18 back nine count back for second after they both came in with 33
points.
There were no count backs to worry about today for Burnie Sinclair as it was
Xmas and he topped the third division with 33 points. Iain Walsh was second
two points behind and Mike Fitzgerald placed third with 30.
Near pins went to Mike Chatt, Wilf Latham, Jerry Sweetnam, Kari Aarnio,
Mauri Friman, Erkki Pohja and Burnie Sinclair.
In the ‘2’s, Mike Chatt birdied the 16th to scoop the pot in Division 1 and
in Division 2 it was all to play for at Greenwood on Wednesday.
Joe Kubon, Rodney and Billy
Fitzgerald.
Wednesday, Dec. 26, Greenwood - Stableford
It was the morning after the night before and
obviously there were going to be a few no shows today which we expected and
we ended up with two divisions. We were allocated the C and A courses and
the equal cut was 9-18 and 19+.
The consensus after the round here today was more of the same please and we
will come back here in a few weeks time.
Teaching in China and with a few weeks holiday, the Aussie boy Chris Reed
won Division 2 with 40 points ahead of Mauri Friman in second five points
behind and the English lad, living in Holland with his Dutch lady Herma, was
third with 32 points, well done Mike Fitzgerald.
Kari Aarnio’s 35 points gave him Division 1 honours, with Jean Morel second
on 32 and Mike Combs beat Ger Lodge on a 16/16 and 13/11 back six count back
for third.
Near pin prizes were collected by Lindsay Phillips, Chris Voller and Ger
Lodge (2).
Roar Berger scored the only birdie ‘2’ of the day to scoop the pot in
Division 2.
Howard Stanley and Michael
Dige.
Friday, Dec. 28, Eastern star - Stableford
There were a few cancellations overnight and
several ‘no shows’ in the morning but in the end we still had eight groups
go out today.
In one of his twice yearly visits here after living up north in Chang Rai
most of the year, and playing off 5, Michael Dige won Division 1 with 36
points after beating Chris Voller on a back nine count back of 19/18. Karl
Flood came in third, beating Jerry Sweetnam on a 17/14 count back after they
both return scores of 32.
The Division 2 winner was Howard Stanley with 35 points while Joe Kubon was
second with 31 and it is too embarrassing to mention the third place winner
with 30 points. No names mentioned but an early contender on the 13th today
for nearest the pin walked off with a blob, we will say no more.
Near pins went to Mikael Andersson, Jerry Mc Carthy, Andy Baber, Roar
Berger, Joe Kubon and Nick Pay.
Michael Dige birdied the third to win the ‘2’s in Division 1 and there were
four rollovers in Division 2 to the following Friday at Eastern Star.
Monday, Dec. 31, Eastern Star – 2-person medal
scramble
One of our fun days of the month and there were
52players (26 teams) out in a two-person scramble, one person from Division
1 (1-16) and one from division 2 (17+) with many prizes up for grabs.
The course here still needs improvement on the 13th and 18th greens and we
have asked the management to install temporary greens on these holes.
It was a warm day with a gentle breeze coming from the east and not from the
coast. It was a 30% combined handicap allowance and each player had to
record 7 drives each.
Don and Nut Head won the competition with 62 points ahead of Marty Rock and
Nick Pay in second with 62.3, Cully and Josie Monks third with 63.2, Kari
Kuparinen and Mauri Friman fourth (63.8), Martin Grimoldby and Dave Thomas
in fifth (65.2) and taking sixth place was the pairing of Michael Healey and
Ger Lodge.
Individual nearest the pins went to (3rd) Miss Nut, Jim Connelly and Ger
Lodge, (6th) Kari Kuparinen and Rod Howett, (13th) Alan Pilkington and Bob
Poole, (17th) Pranee Bosset, Alan Pilkington and Dave Thomas.
Straightest drive awards on the 9th were won by Miss Nut, Billy Fitzgerald
and Ger Lodge and the longest drives on the 18th were recorded by Miss Nut
and Kari Kuparinen.
Team technical prizes were awarded as follows: 2nd hole nearest the pin in 2
shots - Paul Butler and Mike Fitzgerald; 8th hole nearest the pin in 3 shots
- Kari Kuparinen and Mauri Friman; 11th hole nearest the pin in 3 shots -
Alan Pilkington and Ken Priddy; 12th hole nearest the pin in 2 shots - Kari
Kuparinen and Mauri Friman.
Team ‘2’s were recorded by Karl Flood and Paul Chabot; Kari Kuparinen and
Mauri Friman; Michael Healey and Ger Lodge; Miss Nut and Don Head; David
Stewart and Burnie Sinclair; Josie and Cully Monks; Billy Fitzgerald and
Gordon Everingham; Martin Grimoldby and Dave Thomas; Alan Pilkington and Ken
Priddy.
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Eastern Star - IPGC Monthly
Medal
Two divisions today; a medal round in Division 1
(1-12) and for the rest of the field a stableford competition.
Playing off 8, Rick Schramm shot 78 to win division 1 with a net 70 to
finish ahead of Wichai Tannunsorn in second on net 76 and after no placing
on Monday, Chris Voller took third on net 77.
Joe Kubon took the top podium position in Division 2, beating Rodney Howett
on a 17/15 back nine count back after they both scored 32 points, and for
third place there were four scores of 31 and in a back nine count back of
20/17/17/15, Billy Fitzgerald beat Alan Flynn, Jerry Sweetnam and Paul
Butler.
The presentation and the buffet was held at Siam Cats in Jomtien and many
thanks to Jules for the food.
Friday, Jan. 4, Eastern Star - Stableford
Another good turnout with 13 groups, so there were
three divisions and the cut was 7-13, 14-18 and 19+.
The best score off the day came in Division 1 with Marty Rock winning with
38 points. Bill Bertram took second on 35 and Ted Lodge was third one point
behind.
Jerry McCarthy was the winner in Division 2 with 36 points and with his best
game since his return from the UK, Howard Stanley shot 35 to come second
while Nick Pay was third with 34.
Not so high scores in Division 3 with Iain Walsh beating Fred O Connor 11/8
on a back 6 count back for first place after they both came in with 31
points. In third place with 30 was Pepo Frick who beat Mike Corney on a
12/10 back six count back.
In the ladies contest Yuzza Reginiussen was the winner with 29 points.
Near pins went to John Chambers, Billy Fitzgerald, Ted Lodge, Pepo Frick,
Fred O’Connor and Jill Stanley.
Mikael Andersson birdied the 3rd and Ted Lodge the 17th to share the 1st
division ‘2’s pot while in division 2 there are 5 rollovers now to next
Friday.
At the presentation, after eight weeks in hospital and four weeks
convalescing at home being looked after his wife Nom, Ken Foster returned to
Siam Cats and there was applause all round. It’s bon voyage to David Taylor
who was flying back to Southampton to catch a six week cruise liner trip
around South America. Life’s a b**ch eh?
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New heroes to start the new year
The Pattaya Golf Society (IPGC) at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar
The Pattaya Golf Society began the new
year in fine style with a visit to Emerald on Friday, 4th January, to play a
stableford competition in two flights with the cut based at handicaps
sixteen and under. The course is looking good again after the replanting
around the greens and scores were generally good with a full field average
of thirty points.
In the top flight Rick Schramm took third place with a fine 35 points, being
edged out of the top spot by the pairing of Steve Evans and Alan Maxwell who
both recorded 36 points. For Alan it was his first round with the group in
almost two years.
In the second flight Henry Mah took third place with 34 points but was a
long way behind joint winners Ken Grimes and Masashi Iizumi both recording
40 points to begin the year on a real “high”.
There were birdie ‘2’s for Ken Grimes (hole seven) and Jim Proctor and Alan
Flynn both on hole fifteen. Rabbi’s beer draw was won by Dave Moriarty and
the Booby Bevy went to Alan Walker for his largest split figures of the day.
A successful start to the new season then with the PGS as it builds up to
its Annual Championship in two weeks time
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Another amazing year of fantastic golf
PSC golf from The Golf Club
Arlen Wardene, Rich Goad & Nick
Handscombe.
Steve Ellison
Monday, Dec. 31, Green Valley (White tees) – Stableford
1st Rich Goad (12) 43pts
2nd Arlen Wardene (26) 40pts
3rd Geoff Doody (24) 37pts
3rd Nick Handscombe (11) 37pts
Happy New Year to all Golf Clubbers the world over! We greatly appreciate
your support through the year and wish you and your families a healthy and
happy 2013.
A fine day of perfect weather and a great golf course saw us with a full
roster of players this morning. Rich Goad has joined us on several days out
and his best ever round of 43 points was a glorious way to end the year.
Well played Rich! Isn’t it nice when all of those 12 foot putts find the
hole!
Just coming back from his Monthly Medal win last week, Arlen Wardene
continued his fine play and took second with a glorious 40 point round.
Third place saw a tie with Geoff “Darkside” Doody and tricky Nicky
Handscombe at 37 points.
The course is still in very good condition so please join us every Monday
for our regular venue of Green Valley. It is our early start day and we
depart from The Golf Club at 08:15 on Mondays for our 09:25 tee time.
Happy New Year everyone!
Wednesday, Dec. 2, Treasure Hill (White
tees) – Stableford
1st Jayson Schembri (19) 38pts
2nd David Shelton (8) 37pts
3rd Pierre Cere (10) 36pts
3rd Grant Montgomery (12) 36pts
As Oscar Wilde once said, “One martini is just right, two are too many and
three are not enough” and a stiff drink is required before playing here.
This is one of the most challenging golf courses in the Pattaya area, and
keeping the ball in the fairway is vital. If you hit the ball straight you
will score well, but only 4 guys out of 24 shot their handicap or better
today.
It was Jayson Schembri’s turn to step up to the podium today and his 38
points was the best of the field. This is a tough course to score on and to
shoot 2 better than your handicap will usually be hard to beat at Treasure
Hill. The recently returned Dave Shelton was one shot off the pace but still
a great 37 for second place.
Canadians Pierre Cere and Grant Montgomery put in identical cards for a tie
for third place and headed off to the bar for a few après-golf libations, as
one does after such a strenuous day! Just what Oscar would have wanted them
to do!
Friday, Dec. 4, Pleasant Valley (White tees) –
Stableford
1st Pierre Cere (10) 41pts
2nd Rod Stevens (23) 40pts
2nd Nick Handscombe (11) 40pts
4th Grant Montgomery (12) 39pts
We finally had some great scoring today as the venue turned out to be the
kindest on the scorecard this week. It was a bit like Kapalua with winds
gusting to 25mph but at least the ball didn’t get blown off the tee.
Conditions were a bit rough with the greens just being sanded, but by the
time you read this they will probably be just fine.
There were many players here for the first time and had a very enjoyable day
out. This course doesn’t pretend to be the best in Pattaya, but it is a good
honest track that is very playable and great value. We play here with our
PSC vouchers for only a 700 baht green fee, which is tremendous value for
high season.
Thanks once again to all who joined The Golf Club this week and all the best
for 2013!
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We usually play on Monday,
Wednesday and Friday so come join us for a seriously fun day out. Just call
085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya.com and for more
information mail us:
[email protected] and see updates at
www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya.
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Maddox & Waite - the king pair
The Billabong Bar Golf Group
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Green Valley -
Stableford
Down to our regular day out at Green Valley and it
was a dreadfully slow round of golf, 5 hours, which doesn’t do much for
golfers who like to keep moving. Anyway, the course was in great shape as
usual.
Welcome to Richard Holmes playing with us for the first time as was Ian
Wilson straight from Scotland, here for the first time in Thailand, and to
Paul Sharples and Mike Gosden.
The only 2 of the day went to the aforementioned Mike Gosden also well done
as you were playing with Desmond the two’s specialist Tutu, alias Paul
Sharples.
The scores today apart from three really good ones were very ordinary. It
was great to see Chris Dodd hitting his straps as he has had a bad run of
recent times and his handicap has been going in the wrong direction but we
knew you could do it mate.
We had 2 division’s today 0 to 15 and 16 plus. The winner in the latter
division was Richard Holmes with 38 points on a count back over Chris Dodd -
a couple of great scores fellas, especially around Green Valley as it’s not
often this place lets the prisoner get away. In third was Greig Ritchie with
33 points.
Division one the winner was Martin Hayes with 37 points and coming second
was Mike Gosden with 33 points, one ahead of John Ryves in third.
Friday, Jan. 4, The Emerald - Stableford
We played at Emerald today and it was absolute
bedlam when we arrived - a very big thank you to Candy for her organising
skills as without her it would have been unfixable. The girl taking the
money just kept saying no carts and even though we told her there were 10
carts booked it was like talking to a brick wall, however I will repeat what
was said before, the management does not want to let Candy go she is their
best asset.
We played a 2-man scramble or 2-person scramble I should say as Karen
Craigie played with her partner Allan Beck. It was a great fun day out for
all and we will probably play this format once a month from now on by
popular request.
Brian Maddox and Phil Waite conquered the course with a fantastic 59.8
including an eagle on the last hole. Second were Bill Marsden and Darl White
with 64.8 and in third came Karen Craigie and Allan Beck with 65, their card
started with 3,3,3, then 5 then 3 again, what a start. Fourth place was
occupied by the team of Graham Beaumont and Jeff North with 68.6, narrowly
edging their playing partners Richard Steadman and Chris Dodd, with 68.8.
All in all a great day out and thanks once again to Candy, without her we
would have gone to the Navy.
Note: The Billabong Golf Bar is situated just off Siam Country Road looking
straight down the lake. Call in for a ‘coldy’ or ring Bob on 082 204 3411.
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Nicholas comes up trumps at Khao Kheow
PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Monday podium placers (from left): Bob Pearce,
Les Easton, John Fitzgerald and Tim Knight.
PARASUB: Monday, Dec. 31, Burapha - Stableford
For the final round of golf for 2012 at the
Outback, 41 players were to play the Burapha A and B courses from the blue
markers on a Monday holiday; a great roll-up at a very special rate. As it
was a holiday, Burapha was heavily booked with all four courses open for the
day and parking was at a premium; the pace up play was a bit stop/start with
hold-ups on most par 3’s but we still finished in under four and a half
hours so all players could get back to Pattaya in time for the New Years
Eve’s festivities and the traffic got too bad.
(From left): Sugar Ray, Dave Buchanan, Martin
Kingswood, Murray Hart and Tim Knight relax after Wednesday’s round at
Crystal Bay.
We said goodbye to Chopper (Kerry Rothman), Grant Airey,
Steve Reece, Bobby Driggs and Bill Bishop, all having their last game today,
and hello again to Noddy Moyle, Jim Smith, Bob Pearce & Les Easton, all of
whom we haven’t seen for a while and also welcome to Marcus Simmons having
his first game with the Outback.
The course was in great condition and the greens were flat and true with a
good pace. The weather was great for golf but there was a stiff breeze which
made many of the holes play a lot longer than normal. Burapha from the blues
is one of the longer courses that we play and is a great test of golf.
Three divisions plus the ‘2’s and the course was the winner on the day with
only John Fitzgerald managing to break par for the day. Division 3 was won
by Jimmy Little with only 33 points off his 19 handicap who beat David
Coller on a 22 handicap on a count back with third place going to Bob Pearce
with 31 points playing off 19, beating Tim Knight also on count back.
Division 2 was won by John Fitzgerald with the best score of the day, 38
points off his 17 handicap from Rick Kaban (15) with 34 points who beat John
O’Keefe (17) on a count back and in fourth was Les Easton (16) with 32
points.
Division 1 was won by Ron Dickie (9) with 35 points from Grant Airey (8) who
headed a three way count back with 34 points over Paul Bourke (11) and Capt’
Stephen.
There were three ‘2’s, all on B3, to Vince Butler, John O’Connor and David
Coller
Div A (0-12)
1st Ron Dickie (9) 35pts
2nd Grant Airey (8) 34pts
3rd Paul Bourke (11) 34pts
4th Stephen Mann (10) 34pts
Div B (13-17)
1st John Fitzgerald (17) 38pts
2nd Rick Kaban (15) 34pts
3rd John O’Keefe (17) 34pts
4th Les Easton (16) 32pts
Div C (18+)
1st Jimmy Little (19) 33pts
2nd David Coller (22) 33pts
3rd Bob Pearce (19) 31pts
4th Tim Knight (20) 31pts
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Crystal Bay – Stableford
A very busy Wednesday for the start of our new
season of golf and also our brand new tournament, the Race to Bangkok, based
on the European Tour’s “Race to Dubai”. With our allocation at Siam
Plantation being full again with 20 players, another 22 made their way to
Crystal Bay, a venue we haven’t visited for some time. Our thanks also to
another first, Tim Knight, who was running the competition today on behalf
of the Outback.
The course (A & B) was reported to be in good shape, the greens were fast
enough and the showers were working.
All the winners came from the same group; Murray Hart & Martin Kingswood
both with 39’s at the top of Div A and the Sugarman, one back with 38, to
win Div B. Tim found himself on the podium for the second time this week,
taking third place (Div B) with 32pts, whereas Bob Pearce just missed out on
the same feat, heading a trio, all on 31.
There were two ‘2’s from Tim Knight and Dave Buchanan.
Div A (0-16)
1st Murray Hart (16) 39pts
2nd Martin Kingswood (13) 39pts
3rd Dave Buchanan (0) 33pts
Div B (17+)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (18) 38pts
2nd Jarod Braithwaite (18) 36pts
3rd Tim Knight (20) 32pts
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Siam Plantation – Stableford
Another Full House of 20 players at this
excellent Siam Plantation venue for an early 8.36 tee off on the Tapioca and
Pineapple courses as Sugar Cane was undergoing some maintenance. From all
reports the course was in its usual great condition and even though it was a
little short from the whites, some players still struggled.
A great day for golf with perfect weather with little or no breeze and the
starter got us away on time splitting the groups with a two tee start so all
finishing virtually together.
Six places in one division plus the’2’s and of course the “Race to Bangkok”
points with the overall best score coming from Mike Bender with 40 points
off his 10 handicap, from Steve Poznanski with 39 points off his 12
handicap. Steve had 24 points on the Tapioca nine, good golf. Third was Ron
Dickie (9) with 38 points and fourth was John Fitzgerald (17), fresh from
his win on Monday at Burapha with 36 points.
Only one ‘2’ for the day by Steve Poznanski on Tapioca 3.
1st Mike Bender (10) 40pts
2nd Steve Poznanski (12) 39pts
3rd Ron Dickie (9) 38pts
4th John Fitzgerald (17) 36pts
Thursday, Jan. 3, Khao Kheow – Stableford
11 Outbackers travelled to Khao Kheow to B & A
off the yellow tees but the days have now gone allowing two people to a
cart, however all walkers are still welcome. The price for a cart per golfer
is 500 Baht which is not too bad.
The good news is that the course has come back to a good condition with
slick greens and the fairways dry at last.
Who said that golf balls never strike twice, especially by the same golfer?
Well it’s not true as my friend managed to hit me again; this time on the
side of my neck - after thinking about ducking & diving but unable to move.
It cost him a few beers later and after consuming them all the pain had
mysteriously gone.
Back to the golf, well John Nicholas (41pts) must have played a completely
different course to everybody else, in windy conditions he spread-eagled the
field winning by a massive 10 shot margin over Mike Bender & Paul Kaye.
There were no ‘2’s so Alex Graham got some respite from his poor form of
late, as the podium places went down to fourth place.
1st John Nicholas (10) 41pts
2nd Mike Bender (8) 31pts
3rd Paul Kaye (6) 31pts
Friday, Jan. 4, Green Valley – Stableford
A little later that originally planned, today was
Frank O’Neill’s 100 day plus event, sponsored by Laong who took care of him
up until his death. It was not to be a sad day but more a day of celebration
as 56 golfers took to Green Valley to play golf, probably other than the
Daily Telegraph crossword, Frank’s greatest hobby.
The course was in its usual good nick and busy but Capt’ Steve got everybody
away on time albeit the pace of play a little on the slow side. The overall
winner of the event, who unfortunately was not at the presentation, was John
Cunningham with a very fine 40pts just edging out Sel Wegner, who had to
settle for the Div B win on 39. Second in Div B was Murray Hart with 37pts
and with it he collected another 400 Race to Bangkok points to move into 2nd
place on 1000.
Capt’ Steve won Div A, heading off Ian Heddle & Ron Dickie in a three-way
count back, all on 36, whilst the returning Carl Luke, and welcome back,
took Div C with a modest 34, also getting the better of two other players on
count back and no strangers to the podium, Suzi & John O’Keefe.
Bob Lindborg won Div D on 36pts from KE Persson, who has taken to playing
from the new PSC silver tees only to be told today that he couldn’t but
proved he could play pretty good from the whites, with 33.
Back at the bar there was plenty of chatter and quaffing of the usual amber
nectars as well as a good spread of Farang & Thai food all courtesy of
Laong. She also sponsored the Near Pin vouchers which were won by Steve
Plant (4th), Dave Buchanan (9th), Suzi Lawton (12th) and Jack Butler (16th).
At the end of the Outback presentation of prizes etc, Nigel Cannon said a
few kind words in remembrance of Frank and on Laong’s behalf.
There were only three ‘2’s from Dave Buchanan, Eddie Smith & Laong
Gatepratum
Overall
1st John Cunningham (8) 40pts
Div A (0-11)
1st Stephen Mann (10) 36pts
2nd Ian Heddle (4) 36pts
3rd Ron Dickie (8) 36pts
Div B (12-16)
1st Sel Wegner (13) 39pts
2nd Murray Hart (15) 37pts
3rd Steve Plant (12) 36pts
Div C (17-19)
1st Carl Luke (18) 34pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (19) 34pts
3rd John O’Keefe (17) 34pts
Div D (20+)
1st Bob Lindborg (21) 36pts
2nd Kurt Eric Persson (31) 33pts
3rd Tim Knight (20) 32pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road
along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 087 941 2474.
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Carole scoops monthly title
Carole Kubicki (right) is
presented with the MBMG Golfer of the Month award by Dick Warberg.
Derek Brook
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Khao Kheow – Stableford
Carrying on with the ‘Festive Season’ we decided that the
Tuesday being New Years Day, and a holiday, most players would not be in
a mood to play golf, or more of a reason, in no fit state, so we decided
to go on the Wednesday when most were recovered.
Mike Gaussa.
Most of the courses are quite well used at this time of the year so it
was not a great surprise that the best time we could get was an hour
later than normal; still it gave us a bit of a lie in and the normal
group turned up to play this difficult, but usually fine course.
After one of Bert’s golfer’s breakfasts we loaded up
and got away. The trip down there is pain free these days, onto the ‘7’
and pretty much a motorway run. So it proved on this day and not even
Keith got lost. We arrived and as is normal here the book-in was quick
and we were soon onto the first tee, which proved to be C1 with the B
Nine to follow.
We actually got away a few minutes early, but soon caught up with the
groups ahead and were then travelling at a more sedate pace. Mind, for
some this was a relief as we had all just had a ‘hard’ week and it was
nice to smell the roses, so to speak.
The course itself is not in the best of condition at present, I suppose
that in a change of season we have had little rain lately, so the
fairways were quite dry and trying to find a lie with a bit of grass
under it was not that easy. The greens were as usual and the rough
although quite deep was very difficult to get the ball out of.
Soon around it was soon back to the changing room for a shower and then
up to the restaurant for a bite to eat before we set off back to Bert’s.
Due to the late start we hit all the traffic and so arrived back at
Bert’s very late, however Bert had laid on one of his curries for the
golfers special. It was big enough to feed two and I think in some cases
it did.
So into the presentation, and as we had played Silky Oaks on Boxing Day
we also made this day count for the MBMG Group Golfer of the Month for
December. In the A Flight, 0 to 18, the winner was Mike Gaussa with 35
points ahead of Brian Parish with 34 points in second and Mashi Kaneta
with 33 points in third.
In the B Flight the winner was Carole Kubicki with 36 points ahead of
Henry Wong in second with 33 points and Joel Flor in third with 32
points.
So to the MBMG Golfer of The Month, and the winner with a fine win on
the last day was Carole Kubicki. Well played Carole!
Near Pins: Paul Alford, Brian Parish, Torsten Bischoff, Richard
Kubicky
Long Putts: Joel Flor, Carole Kubicky
Friday, Jan. 4,
Treasure Hill – Stableford
This is a long way away, so for many years we did not play
the course. Now however the management here has come up with a realistic
rate and the drive there is much easier. One final point is that the
course is being worked on, and on this day it was seen that the ‘GUR’ we
have been having to put up with of late has turned into a nice smooth
approach to most of the greens. A bit too smooth for some golfers.
Indeed much work has been put into the course in many respects making
this almost too difficult for some players.
Mike O’Brien.
Whether all the changes are to the liking of the golfers is a point
worth discussing, however what cannot be argued is that most of the
golfers who play with us enjoy the course and we are now booking it more
often. On this day it was in fine condition, and really tough as well.
Back at Bert’s the results were declared and it was seen that not one
player had shot his handicap. In the A Flight, 0 to 16, the winner was
Rob Brown with 35 points ahead of Mashi Kaneta with 34 points and a
count back for third saw Mark West come out on top over Mike Gaussa.
In the B Flight the ‘cut’ allowed Mike O’Brien to win with 32 points
from Walter Beachli in second with 30 points and Torsten Bischoff in
third with 29 points. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Walter Baechli, Mike O’Brien, Mark West
Long Putts: Karen Brown
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Greig carries winning formula into 2013
PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch
Monday, Dec. 31, Eastern Star –
Stableford
Five groups of golfers today for our last game of 2012, and we made a
late change of venue to utilize a special offer from Eastern Star on this
public holiday. Although we were behind another large group of golfers, the
course was not overly busy (considering the crowds we encountered on the
previous public holiday), and we were able to make reasonable progress,
completing the round in just over 4 and a half hours.
Colin Greig (right) celebrates a winning start
to 2013 with Jack Robertson.
There have been continuous problems over the last few years with the greens
here, and today their scruffy appearance made them seem actually worse than
they really were. Colin Greig produced the best score of the day and was the
only player to better his handicap on this tricky course, to end the year on
a high note.
1st Colin Greig (12) 37pts
2nd Matt Shotton (20) 34pts
3rd Mashi Kaneta (13) 32pts
4th John Hughes (18) 32pts
Near Pins: Mike Corner, Jack Robertson and Paul Smith(2).
Wednesday, Jan 2, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
Just 4 groups of golfers made the trip to the treacherous
Mountain Shadow course to play the first game of the new year. The course
was in great shape, apart from the bunkers being untidy, and the greens were
as difficult as ever, particularly since the greenkeeper had decided to
start the new year with some very difficult pin positions.
Colin Greig continued where he left off last year, playing to his handicap
and making a winning start to 2013. Tony Scambler also had a good start to
the year, coming in 3rd place and taking 3 near pins.
1st Colin Greig (12) 36pts
2nd Michael Brett (17) 35pts
3rd Tony Scambler (7) 34pts
4th William Macey (19) 34pts
Near Pins: Tony Scambler (3)
Friday, Jan. 4, Greenwood C&A – Medal
A good turnout today for our visit to the popular Greenwood
course, giving us two flights for our first medal event of 2013. A feature
of this course is that the apron around the greens is always left as second
cut (a feature which some players feel detracts from an otherwise excellent
course) and today the grass was even longer than usual.
We welcomed back Keith Norman and Gerry Cooney after a 3 week break over
Christmas – surely that’s too long a layoff for any keen golfer.
Tony Robbins produced the best round of the day, managing to save par on the
difficult A9 hole (our 18th hole today) to take the honours by a single shot
ahead of Lars Strom and Mike Brett. Apart from the normal winner’s prize,
Tony also picked up the first KPK Food voucher of 2013 - many thanks to our
generous sponsor for their continuing support.
A Flight
1st Tony Robbins (12) net 72
2nd Keith Norman (12) net 74
3rd Jon Batty (11) net 75
B Flight
1st Lars Strom (23) net 73
2nd Mike Brett (19) net 73
3rd Mike Corner (19) net 75
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney and Ken Ellmore (2).
Note: The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf society, who now play
out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya 3rd Road (in front of the fire station, and
almost opposite the Buffalo Bar). We play three times per week on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Fridays, so if you enjoy a fun day out, and a friendly but
competitive golf competition why not come and join us.
We meet at The Ranch at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new
players are always welcome. Contact Buff on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663 for
all enquiries. You can find all the news, schedules and results on our
website at
http://www.bunkersociety.com.
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Pearson rises at Phoenix
Travellers Rest Golf Group
Andy Rich
So it was out with the old this week and in with the new as 2012
sailed off into the sunset and 2013 dawned full of promise. I am pleased to
report that the year started off very well for one of the TRGG regulars.
Donald Pearson.
Donald Pearson, a thirty five handicapper and a real trier finally rose to
the top of the leaderboard on Thursday at Phoenix. I hope he will forgive me
if I compare his golf swing to the proverbial man trying to kill a wasp
whilst standing in a phone box, it is certainly not a thing of rare beauty
and to see his forlorn face when another golf ball disappears into trouble
is a sad sight indeed. When Donald is on the tee everybody shouts DUCK
(apologies for that attempt at humour).
In fact I have to tell you that Donald is one of the unluckiest people I
know, he is that man who every time he loses a hundred baht he finds five
baht. So we were all really pleased for him when his year started well with
a fine win although again he only won with 36 points, playing to his
handicap only then to find that the cruel handicapper had cut him three
shots, that is typical of Donald’s luck.
On Monday 31st December, New Years Eve, the TRGG visited Treasure Hill and
Roger Wilkinson (14) finished the year in style by taking first place with
37pts, not easy on a tricky course. Mike Rushant (12) continued his good
form of late by taking the runners up spot with 35pts and Tasutu Nakajima
(14) showed last week’s win was no fluke by taking third place on 34pts.
Mike Rushant.
New Years Day, Tuesday 1st January saw a
moderate turnout sporting a few hangovers head off to tackle Khao Kheow (C
and B courses) and that well known teetotaler Fergus Brennan (10) (believe
that and you believe in fairies) strode off with first prize shooting 34pts,
just winning on count back from that very consistent striker of a golf ball
Billy Ostle (12). Mr Consistent himself Jeff Bunn (6) took third with 33pts.
As previously mentioned, Thursday 3rd January was the day Donald Pearson
came up smelling of roses at Phoenix (Lake and Ocean course). He finished on
36pts, taking first place on count back from Mike Rushant (12) with Seamus
Farrell (30) taking third spot with 34pts.
On Friday 4th January it was the turn of the Navy course at Plutaluang
(North and West courses) to play host to the TRGG. The course was in
excellent condition and is probably the best value price wise of any course
in Pattaya. Mike Rushant (12) finished off an excellent week, sinking putts
from everywhere, and taking first place with 38pts. Guy Fraser (11), heading
back home the following day, finished his visit in style by taking runners
up spot on 34pts after beating Billy Ostle (12) into third place on count
back.
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week!
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Alain & Bernie take the spoils
PSC Golf from The Growling Swan
Bernie McCart, Scott Leszynski
& Alain Taddei.
Peter Blackburn
Thursday, Jan. 3, Bangpakong - Stableford
This being our first outing of the year it was
terrific to see that we had a full field of 32, and in fact had to apologize
to several players who were too late in putting their names down which
resulted in them missing out. People seem to “come out of the woodwork” when
they see that we are playing the classy Bangpakong Riverside Golf Course and
surprisingly there are still some who do not make the journey as the trip is
“too long”, but for the true keen golfer it is well worth the extra few
minutes.
We were happy to welcome back my very good friend Frankie Sharratt from
Derbyshire, UK and also from the same county Colin Faraday playing with us
for the first time. Also playing with us for the first time but no stranger
to many of us were Carole & Richard Kubicki from Cyprus & UK, terrific to
have this nice couple with us.
Also playing again with us again and welcome back was the PSC Social
Chairman Nigel Cannon, who enjoys his occasional outing with our Growling
Swan crew, and last but not least were many visiting “Growling Swans
Delinquents” members who were as follows: Tony “Spaggoni” Olcorn from
Brisbane plus Tristan Freeman, Gary Williams, Robert Allen, Vince “Vinnie”
Romero, Shane “Jockey” Young, Ernie Picken & Russell Calcutt, all from
Melbourne, Australia.
Just about everyone was organized for the slightly earlier departure and we
managed to leave the GS in 3 very full mini vans at 8.23 am and headed off
up number 7. The traffic was quite sparse leaving Pattaya and once more we
made the journey in the excellent time of 60 minutes and after checking in
we arrived at the first tee to find no-one directly in front of us and the
golf course did not appear to be too busy, quite surprising for this venue
and the time of year.
The weather was fantastic, not too hot with a bit of wind and our first
four-ball teed off 3 minutes ahead of our booked time at 9.57 am. As usual
the course was pristine with lush fairways and beautifully maintained greens
and we proceeded at a very good pace with no necessity to take a drinks
break and our first nine was completed in a little under 2 hours.
This pace was maintained during the second nine and after eventually
catching up with the groups in front with four holes to go we still managed
to complete the round in the excellent time of three hours & fifty four
minutes. It was a fabulous day’s golf on a great course with terrific
company – “It doesn’t get much better than this”.
We were able to have 2 grades with six podium spots in each. A Grade was for
handicaps 0 to 23 and B Grade for 24 and over. We had nearest the pins on
all the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
Before presentations I wished everyone present a very Happy New Year & also
publicly thanked Mike “Hunter” Gosden for being acting Golf Manager the
previous Thursday while I was “doing it tough” at Amata Springs.
It was very tight at the top of A Grade with 5 golfers all having 39 points
so of course count backs were the go which resulted in the winner being
declared as Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei (23 point back nine). In
second spot was Ken “Let’s hear it for” Bernek (20 point back nine) with
Mike Allidi (19 point back nine & 71 gross) finishing third. In fourth place
was Jayson Schembri (17 point back nine & 12 points on the last 6 holes) and
finishing fifth was newcomer Colin Farady (17 point back nine & 11 points on
the last 6 holes).
With 2 golfers having 38 points yet another count back was needed to
determine sixth place which went to Frenchman Michael Catillon (18 point
back nine) and the unlucky Richard “Tricky Dicky” Kubicki just missed out.
Much easier to determine the winner of B Grade with Bernie McCart having 39
points, four points ahead of Fred Dineley (19 point back nine) with Vince
“Vinnie” Romeo (17 point back nine) finishing third. There were 3 players on
33 points so the count back decided that fourth place went to Sandy
“Leiperfrog” Leiper (23 point back nine) and Wendy Bernek (16 point back
nine) was fifth with Gary “Sportscene” Monley (14 point back nine) fifth.
A Flight (0-23)
1st Alain Taddei (17) 39pts
2nd Ken Bernek (15) 39pts
3rd Mike Allidi (2) 39pts
4th Jayson Schembri (19) 39pts
5th Colin Faraday (18) 39pts
6th Michael Catillon (18) 38pts
B Flight (24+)
1st Bernie McCart (30) 39pts
2nd Fred Dineley (29) 35pts
3rd Vince Romeo 35pts
4th Sandy Leiper (35) 33pts
5th Wendy Bernek (31) 33pts
6th Gary Monley 33pts
Near Pins: 4th – Tristan Freeman, 7th – Carole Kubicki, 13th – Gary
Williams, 16th – Andrew Allen
Long Putts: 9th – Richard Kubicki, 18th – Alain Taddei
The Growling Swan NAGA Award, (awarded to the golfer who has the worst score
on the day and discreetly their score is not made public) was well won by
Scott “Moneybags” Leszynski who whilst attempting to avoid the presentation
by sneaking outside for a smoke (reminds us of another American golfer in
Pattaya) was gracious in accepting the cap when hauled back into the
restaurant. His “sneaky” attempt at avoidance resulted in a double fine for
him but to his credit he had a big smile on his face the whole time.
Big Ken paraded Deefa the Dog and many donations were collected for the
needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan Crew. Back at The
Growling Swan the Aussie cold, low priced beer was flowing and with a big
crew back there the atmosphere was great.
Note: Growling Swan Golf welcomes golfers of any persuasion – low & high
handicappers alike, female golfers and beginners. We generally play Mondays
& Thursdays, meeting at The Growling Swan (formerly The Bunker Bar) in Soi
Chaiyapoon at 8.00 am with transport departing at 8.30 am. For bookings or
more information please contact Peter on 0806 351 386 or email to
[email protected].
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Santa rounds off the year at The Haven
IPGC golf from The Haven
Santa with the presents.
Due to the busy holiday golf schedule this year’s Baan
Jing Jai Santa Scramble was held even earlier than usual on the 7th of
December as the middle of December has become overcrowded with so many other
competitions, which has an effect on the total entries but this year the
entries increased compared to the last two years and resulted in a greater
sum raised from the golfing activities. No doubt the tougher world economic
situation contributed to a lower sum collected from the raffle but donations
were also up.
While waiting for Santa the
pool seems a good option.
This year the plan was again to raise enough money to buy
each of the 75 or so children, a Christmas present of their dreams with any
excess money being directed towards the funds for the New Home for 100 plus
children that is planned to be built on the outskirts of the city on land
that has already been purchased for that purpose.
The home that cares for orphaned and abandoned children between the ages of
1 year and 17 years has received the official status of a charitable trust
under the title of The Baan Jing Jai Foundation. This status still does not
mean that it will receive any monies from either central or local government
and will still therefore have to rely on donations from commercial and
private individuals and fund raising activities such as the day’s events
which are vital to its ongoing survival.
The children form a line for
Santa.
Last year’s wonderful sum of 200,000 baht was again
matched with the last minute addition of a final donation made by a famous
anonymous donor.
Whilst not wishing to exclude and also not mentioning any individual, many
who gave very generously either through the 50/50 draw or directly into the
fund with donation, it is right to give credit to those commercial sponsors
who helped to make this such a successful day. These were: Phoenix Golf and
Country Club, Pattaya Mail Media, Pattaya Sports Supply, and the Haven
Hotel.
Those that made the effort to support the day’s very worthy cause were
rewarded with a great day’s golfing enjoyment in the knowledge that they had
all helped towards making it a very happy Christmas for a lot of deserving
children.
“Is this for you?”
After the golfing activities the contestants returned to
The Haven where the usual sumptuous spread had be laid on and continued
until all were totally sated.
Lamyai Beard presented the prizes as husband Stephen emceed the prize
presentations and thanked all who had helped to make the day such a great
success from the prize donors, 50/50 sellers, donation collectors, buyers,
donors and golf organizers and the staff of the Haven for keeping everyone
topped up with food and drink in the evening.
There was also a sad moment of reflection in memory of Roy Thornton who had
been instrumental in starting the Santa Scramble on behalf of the Baan Jing
Jai in conjunction with The Haven four years earlier and he would have been
extremely happy to have seen the day’s total collected for the New Home.
Pianta & Lamyai.
Division 1
1st Ian Speirs, Neal Gamble, Tom Novak, Willie Van Heetvelde (9.0) net
55.0
2nd Wichai Tanasusorn, Jim Ferris, Richard Bannister, Peter Ditz, (6.1) net
56.9
3rd Mike Korney, Garry Warren, Kathleen Fetherston, Jack Fetherston (9.0)
net 57.0
Division 2
1st Mike Hill, Don Everett, Rodney Hayes, Alwyne Burley (9.5) net 58.5
2nd Matt Millar, Vance Millar, Dale Drader, Kenny Cooke, (12.3) net 59.7
3rd Sam McLellan, Larry Ang, David Plaiter, Grant Alexander (10.0) net 60.0
50/50 Draw
1st Malcolm Clare
2nd Lamyai Beard
3rd Norwegian Seaman’s Church ticket
Following on from the golfing and fund raising day, Sunday December 30 was
the first opportunity that the children could be presented with their
presents, as over the Christmas period they were very busy touring the city
giving carol concerts at many local establishments.
Second division winners at
the Santa Scramble: Don Everett, Rodney Hayes, Mike Hill and Alwyne Burley
with Lamyai Beard.
Some 75,000 baht of the amount raised was utilised to
purchase the presents and with all of the children having requested their
heart’s desire they already knew what Santa had in his sack for them. The
balance was put towards the fund that has been set up to build the new home
for the children.
The event was again held at The Haven Hotel, now becoming a regular haunt
for the children, where a very jolly Santa gave them all a special bag
followed by a special take-away meal box as they set off to enjoy the rest
of the day unwrapping and enjoying their presents.
Following the successful start to raise the finance for the new home when
over 6 million has been raised through various events and sponsors, there
was recent news of an international sponsor for the fund and it can now be
reported that the funds collected now stand at over 12 million baht and
following the completion of the boundary wall, immediate plans are being
presented to the local government departments with a view to start the
construction early in 2013 with a completion date of 2014.
Full financial details of the new home project can be found on the web site
at
www.baanjingjaifoundation.org.
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Keith Emerson shines
IPGC golf from The Haven
Wednesday, Jan. 2, Phoenix - Stableford
CSS 72
Division 1 (0-19)
1st Keith Emerson (13) 40pts
2nd Mick Lowe (19) 35pts
3rd Paul Taylor (19) 34pts
Division 2 (20+)
1st Kenny Priddy (25) 33pts
2nd Bob Pratt (28) 32pts
3rd Mike Hill (23) 31pts
Keith Emerson.
With no fixture on New Year’s Eve and the first day’s golf in the new year
scheduled for Phoenix, a good turnout meant the formation of two divisions
with the cut coming at a fairly high 19 in the first division.
Playing the Lake and Ocean courses from the white tees would be considered
the easiest option of the possible combinations normally played, but the day
turned out to be surprisingly difficult with only one player able to equal
or better their handicap the competition standard scratch for the day just
managed to remain at 72 by the narrowest of margins.
Kenny Priddy.
Keith Emerson was the only contestant to better his handicap and walked away
with the first division top place by five clear shots after having gone out
in one over handicap. He completed the back nine in five under which include
five pars and a birdie to round off a very good day.
Mick Lowe was almost very good but two holes with zero points made a big
difference but he held on over the inward half to take second spot at one
over handicap. This left Paul Taylor in third after he had finished very
strongly but a poorer outward nine where he dropped four to his handicap
cost him the chance of a better finish.
The second division saw a bit more of a scramble to accumulate some points
with Kenny Priddy coming out on top started with a very steady level
eighteen point half and just holding off the challengers, even after taking
a couple of one pointers to finish but a very good par on the sixteenth par
three sealed the win for the day.
Bob Pratt took second place with a strong finish that saw him home with 19
over the back nine after a quiet beginning that included a couple of blobs.
It proved to be just enough to consign Mike Hill into third spot as he had
ended the round with too many zeros and ones on his card - it was starting
to look like a computer programme but was a lot better than many others on
the day.
There were no 2’s in either division.
Before the presentations were made there were welcome backs for Terry
Hodgkiss and Marty Garnett.
Friday, Jan. 4, Pattaya Country Club - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Shane Heavey (19) 39pts
2nd Mick Lowe (19) 38pts
3rd Bob Pratt (28) 37pts
4th Adrian Cook (19) 37pts
5th Keith Emerson (13) 37pts
Shane Heavey.
With many poor reports of the condition of the back nine following the
extensive renovations to the course during the low season, many players did
not show up for the once a month trip to our most local course. But with the
judicious use of a local ‘lift and place’ rule through the green, the course
became very playable and afforded those that supported the course management
in their endeavours to improve the playability of the course with the reward
of a good day’s golf when scores could be made even over the maligned back
nine. In fact the scores returned for the day were equally good for both
nines with half the field having a better return over the last nine than the
first.
Shane Heavey took his first win for some time with a three under handicap
round that owed much to a very solid front and back nine with both including
a zero pointer but still amounting to 19 on the front and 20 on the back,
giving him a one point margin over second placed Mick Lowe. Mick had a bad
finish to the front nine with two zeros on the eighth and ninth holes but
then lit up his round and day with a stunning six under back nine that
included six three-pointers and one four-pointer and just failed to catch
his playing partner Shane for the top spot.
Bob Pratt, who was also playing in the same group, obviously took a few
pointers from the two top players as he returned his best score for some
time, which included a three under handicap back nine that was enough for
him to take the win in a count back for third place with 21 points as Adrian
Cook, in fourth with20 on the back nine, and the in-form Keith Emerson, in
fifth with 15, failed to keep up the pace after good starts to their rounds,
with Keith actually flopping badly after a four under outward half that even
included a blob.
Once again there were no 2’s in either division.
Prior to the presentations there were welcome backs for Phillip Cass, Lyle
Blaw, Alan Hanlon and Trevor Schirmer giving his knee its first test since
the operation.
Note: If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact mobile
082 219 0965 or call in to The Haven Hotel, at 185 Soi 13, between Beach
Road and 2nd Road. All transportation to the course is arranged and you do
not need to sign up prior to the day, but you should be there by 8.15 on
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on the days that you wish to play. A schedule
of courses to be played can be found on our web site at
www.thehaven-hotel.com.
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Treasure Hill starts off the golfing year
PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside
Brian Maddox & Phill Waite.
No game on Tuesday, this being New Year’s Day and it was
decided with all the holiday issues and late nights prior we would skip it.
So to Thursday, Jan. 3, with Treasure Hill our venue and as is the ML policy
of 2nd back tee, it was the Whites at a titch over 6700 yards. The course
was in great order and the weather was also top shelf, so really close to
ideal scoring conditions.
We had 2 flights today, as a few of our regulars brought along holidaying
friends. The “A” flight at 0 -17 needed a count back to separate Phill Waite
(14) & George Gamble (17) after both signed for 36 points. Phill getting the
nod 21/18, while struggling along in third spot after another count back was
Jeff Wylie (6) with 30 points. Martin was the unlucky golfer in the count
back after registering 13 points on the back 9.
Scores in the “B” Flight were closer, with Neil Harvey (18) leading the way
on 33 points, 2 clear of Brian Maddox (22), while our Silver Tee participant
K (27) got the bronze with 30 points.
Near Pins went to Martin & Phill on 2 & 17 respectively, while Samorn picked
up the other 2 on holes 6 & 13.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday, with ML
hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we
welcome ALL golfers, including ladies & seniors who have opted for the
“Silver” tee option. Call 089 094 1841 for scheduling or enquiries. Hope to
see you there, cheers & good golfing!
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Lobenwein tops the scoring
PSC golf from Café Kronborg
Thursday’s winners Scott
Lobenwein (left) and Leif Kirkgaard (right) flank Dave Richardson.
Thursday, Jan. 3, Khao Kheow B&C -
Stableford
It was the Khao Kheow Country Club today in
practice for the PSC club championship and after a swift check-in it was off
to the C1 tee 10 minutes early under sunny skies and a howling wind, which
is the norm for this time of the year.
The course on the day was in good condition with lots of roll downwind and
the greens were very good.
Back in the clubhouse after a quick round of 4 hours and 20 minutes,
welcomes went out to Scott Lobenwein from Gove in Australia, and Bjarne
Kjar, Svend and Susanne Gaarde, all from Denmark.
Two flights today with the cut at handicap 20 and Leif Kirkgaard won the A
Flight with 36 points ahead of Jan Lovgreen in second on a count back from
Don Hachey, while Kristin Helgason was fourth with 30 points.
Scott Lobenwein won the B Flight with the best score of the day, 39 points,
Mike Winfield took second on 33, while Dave Richardson was third on a count
back from Svend Gaarde in fourth, both with 32 points.
A Flight (0-20)
1st Leif Kirkgaard (16) 36pts
2nd Jan Lovgeen (20) 32pts
3rd Don Hachey (20) 32pts
4th Kristin Helgason (18) 30pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Scott Lobenwein (31) 39pts
2nd Mike Winfield (21) 33pts
3rd Dave Richardson (24) 32pts
4th Svend Gaarde (28) 32pts
Note: If you are looking for a game of golf in Pattaya, call Dave at
083 602 2117 or email
[email protected].
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Pattaya Boxing World Stadium sees out 2012 with top fight nights
A full stadium for the Thai Boxing Charity
Gala on Dec. 28.
Report & Photos by Khun Tom (Pattaya Boxing World)
Both Thai and international Muaythai fans had a great end to the year
when they were given the chance to attend two awesome nights of fight
action at the Pattaya Boxing World Stadium, located in front of Mini
Siam in north Pattaya.
On December 28, the venue hosted the Sitpholek International Thai Boxing
Charity Gala, which again filled the stadium with spectators looking for
top class fight action. The fans were not disappointed either, with some
fights ending in amazing knockouts and others lasting the full 5 rounds
and going to the judges’ decision.
Two days later, on December 30, the Pattaya Boxing World hosted “Muay
Thai Combat Mania” which proved to be another excellent and exciting
fight night and featured two legends in the sport; Yodsanklai Fairtex in
the blue corner, fighting Kem Sitsongpeenong from the red corner at the
71kg weight division. This main event fight had been much anticipated
and talked about by Muaythai fans around the world. The contest labeled
“Fight of the Year 2012” was true to its name, with local fighter
Yodsanklai knocking out Kem in the third round with an elbow.
Pattaya Boxing World Stadium hosts real Muaythai fight nights every
Wednesday and Friday evening at 8pm, along with Muaythai cultural shows
throughout the week. New to the stadium is wrestling every Saturday
evening, giving spectators and enthusiasts exciting and entertaining
nights of combat sports.
For more info about upcoming events, check out Pattaya Boxing World on
facebook.
Yodsanklai Fairtex
(center) celebrates his victory over Kem Sitsongpeenong.
Fans soak up the
atmosphere during ‘Muay Thai Combat Mania’, Dec. 30.
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Andre Axelrod - a new (swimming) star is born
Andre prepares for his marathon swim.
Peter Cummins
There he was - looking at a portrait of Royal Varuna Yacht
Club member and British swimmer Malcolm Humphreys who, earlier in
2012, had become the first hero to swim the Gulf between Royal
Varuna Yacht Club and the eastern shore of Koh Larn.
“So”, thought Andre Axelrod, the Swiss mountaineer and fellow - club
member, “I think I should do this also!”
It was not long before a monitoring team, composed of Martine
(Axelrod) and Royal Varuna committee man - and a world champion
sailor – Gareth Owen, mounted the escort craft as Andre hit the
water to start his swim.
The style of a champion.
“It was unbelievable”, said Andre, after his tremendous effort.
“At times, the pollution in the water was so bad, I thought I would
have to turn back to the Pattaya shore”, he said sadly. Then, being
a man of great erudition – though no religious affiliation - he
smiled, adding, “I think I know where Jesus learned to ‘walk on the
water’, it must have been Pattaya where one could almost walk the
odd nine kilometers to Koh Larn, across the pollution.”
But, back to the story: This very athletic tee-totaller, swam on …
and on, reaching the Loh larn shore in two hours and forty-nine
minutes. His time was exactly 10 minutes less than Malcolm’s a few
months before.
Success – a new record time.
There is a nice mathematical equation here: Andre is 10 years
younger than Malcolm and his cross-Gulf time was 10 minutes less.
So, it could be surmised that Malcolm lost one minute a year in the
elapsed time.
Andre came back to the Royal Varuna Club in the accompanying tender,
to an enthusiastic welcome for the new champ, even greetings from
the former title-holder, now in the UK.
I looked at a recent page in the Bangkok Post noticing an article
about an Australian swimmer who will attempt the 170-km crossing
from Havana, Cuba to Florida, USA. Ms. Chloe McCardel, a 27-year-old
Aussie lady who has swum the Channel between England and France
twice before. They breed them tough Down Under!
I have passed on this article to Andre who, right now, is extremely
busy mountain climbing and skiing in the Swiss Alps. I think I know
his response to trying to conquer either of these stretches of
water…!
Meantime, back at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, there is some
murmuring about inaugurating an annual trans–Gulf race where the
club members would plunge like lemmings – and like that breed, too,
only the toughest and fittest would beach on Koh Larn.
But, it must be realized, that this murmuring was around the very
lively Varuna sea-front bar.
Happy New Year 2013, to all – swimmers AND drinkers, alike!
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Trail warriors descend
on Horseshoe Point
Fun for all the family at the Columbia Trail
Masters.
The 4th edition of the Columbia Trail Masters will
be held in the beautiful settings of Horseshoe Point Resort on the outskirts
of Pattaya on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013.
The event will feature a 21.5km off road half marathon, a 10km trail run and
4km Fun Run/Walk for families and children that invites participation by
all. There will also be clowns, pony rides, bouncy castle, tree-top
adventure and archery games to entertain the young ones.
The Columbia Trail Masters Championship 2013 offers exciting routes that
travel along scenic trails exploring the mountains, farmlands and greenery
of eastern Thailand.
Age categories for the half marathon are: Men 16-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50 and
above, and Women 16-29, 30-39, 40 and above.
The 10km trail run is also subdivided into age groups as follows: Men 12-15,
16-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50 and above, and Women 12-29, 30-39, 40 and above.
The event gets underway at 6 a.m. in the morning and a post race lunch will
be served in a friendly and festive atmosphere following the trophy
presentation. There will also be a pre-race BBQ at Horseshoe Point on
Saturday evening, Jan. 12 with horse shows and activities for families.
Entry fee is 1,200 baht for the half marathon and 1000 baht for the 10km
race. The Fun Run is 150 baht for adults and is free for children 14 years
of age and below.
For more information call Active Management Asia on 02 718 9581-2 or visit
website: www.ama-events.com.
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Windsurfing Cup this weekend
The Pattaya International Windsurfing Cup will be held
off the “Surf Kitchen” Restaurant in Jomtien from 11-12 January, 2013.
Organized by the Windsurfing Association of Thailand and the Pattaya City
Windsurfing Club, the championship will feature male and female competitors
taking part in various race categories including IMCO, RS:X, Techno 293 and
Slalom (Shortboard).
The event is open to all sailors and entry is free of charge. Prize giving
will be held at the “Surf Kitchen” Restaurant at 6 p.m. on Saturday evening.
For more information, contact Mr. Pattana (Mr. Yai) on Tel. 081 429 9999.
Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League
Bowlers ready to start the new
season at PS Bowl.
Well the move has been completed from
Pattaya Plus Bowl, close to Big C on Second Road, to PS Bowl above Tops
Super Market. It has been confirmed, more or less, that Pattaya Plus Bowl
will be closing soon. Our bowlers have had several weeks to adjust to the
different conditions at PS Bowl and the new league got started at the end of
December.
Café Kronborg got off to a good start, led by Kran Nielson who bowled a 563
series, as they won four points from Green Tree. Sue Murphy bowled a 202
game from Kronborg.
Semper FI took four points from Canada with Tao making the difference with a
210 game and 558 series.
Pao Orawan led Bavaria to a three point win over Brother D with her 209 game
and 506 series.
Indiana took three points from VFW Post 9876 behind La Montgomery’s 522
series.
Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 529 series to lead Jack Tar to three point win over
the Blind team.
| Results & Standings Dec. 28
(week 1) |
| Pos. |
Team |
Score |
Standings |
| 1 |
Café Kronborg |
4 - 0 |
4 - 0 |
| 2 |
Semper FI |
4 - 0 |
4 - 0 |
| 3 |
Bavaria |
3 – 1 |
3-1 |
| 4 |
Indiana |
3 – 1 |
3-1 |
| 5 |
Jack Tar |
3 – 1 |
3-1 |
| 6 |
Blind |
1 – 3 |
1-3 |
| 7 |
Brother D |
1 – 3 |
1 – 3 |
| 8 |
VFW Post 9876 |
1 – 3 |
1-3 |
| 9 |
Canada |
0 - 4 |
0 - 4 |
| 10 |
Green Tree |
0 - 4 |
0 - 4 |
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Wednesday Quiz League
Results & Standings Jan. 2
| Pos. |
Team |
21-Nov |
12-Dec |
19-Dec |
2-Jan |
Total |
| 1 |
Palmers |
3 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
12 |
| 2 |
Rest Stop |
3 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
10 |
| 3 |
Cheers |
3 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
9 |
| 4 |
Offshore |
1 |
3 |
1 |
3 |
8 |
| 5 |
Nervous Wreck |
1 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
8 |
| 6 |
The Londoner |
3 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
7 |
| 7 |
Queen Victoria |
1 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
5 |
| 8 |
Shagwell Mansion |
1 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
5 |
| Results: The Londoner 102 v 102 Queen
Victoria, Nervous Wreck 104 v 102 Cheers, Rest Stop 102 v 104 Palmers,
Shagwell Mansion 88 v 96 Offshore |
Super Ball Pool League
Results & Standings Jan. 2 (week 2)
| Team |
Played |
Won |
Lost |
Draw |
Pts. |
| Cheers |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
| Buddy’s Bar |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
| Party Girls |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
| The Ranch |
2 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
| FCUK |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
| Queen Vic |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
| George n Dragon |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
| Simple Simon |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
| Legends |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
| Wet Bar |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
| Irish Rover |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
| Rioja |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
| Results: Cheers 13 v 7 FCUK, Irish Rover 9
v 11 George n Dragon, Rioja 7 v 13 Party Girls, Simple Simon 10 v 10 Wet
Bar, The Ranch 10 v 10 Legends, Buddy’s Bar 11 v 9 Queen Vic |
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