Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 6 (week 13)

Division 1
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts.
Shoot Pool	12	11	1	52	0	33
Irish Rovers	11	7	4	19	0	21
Butchers Arms	11	6	5	8	1	19
Legends Pool	10	6	4	1	1	19
Links Bar	10	5	5	-2	1	16
Sweethearts Bar	11	5	6	-5	1	16
Pook’s Bar	12	5	7	-18	0	15
Biggy’z Rest	11	4	7	-10	2	14
Nicky’s Bar	11	4	7	-18	0	12
Dean’s Bar	13	3	10	-27	1	10
Results:  Legends Pool P-P Nicky’s Bar, Links Bar 9 v 10 Dean’s Bar, Sweethearts Bar 6 v 10 Butchers Arms
Division 2
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts.
Caddyshack	13	10	3	21	0	30
Smile Bar	12	8	4	23	1	25
Easy R-con Bar	12	8	4	21	0	24
Cheers Bar	10	8	2	10	0	24
Wet Bar	11	7	4	-1	0	21
Eor’s Bar	12	6	6	-6	1	19
Offshore Bar	12	5	7	-17	1	16
Mai’s Bar	9	4	5	-9	0	12
Rabbi’s Elephant	11	1	10	-42	0	3
Results:  Smile Bar 6 v 10 The Caddyshack

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings May 10 (week 9)

Division 1
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Shoot Pool	7	6	1	23	0	18
Links Bar	7	5	2	6	1	16
Pook’s Bar	8	5	3	8	0	15
The Butchers Arms	6	3	3	-1	1	10
Biggyz Rest ‘A’	8	3	5	-15	1	10
Mata Bar	7	3	4	-3	0	9
Sweethearts Bar	5	2	3	1	2	8
Nicky’s Bar	7	2	5	-8	0	6
Legends Pool	5	1	4	-11	1	4
Results:  Biggyz Rest ‘A’ 4 v 10 Pook’s Bar, Legends Pool W v L Bye, The Butchers Arms 10 v 9 Links Bar
Division 2
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Offshore Bar	8	6	2	18	0	18
Easy R-Con Bar	8	5	3	10	1	16
Old Thai Angle	8	5	3	16	0	15
Irish Rovers	9	4	5	-18	1	13
Dean’s Bar	8	4	4	-1	0	12
Tie’s R Us	8	4	4	-1	0	12
FCUK Inn	9	4	5	-12	0	12
Crazy Eddie’s	7	3	4	-2	1	10
Mai’s Bar	7	1	6	-10	3	6
Results:  Offshore Bar W v L Bye, Old Thai Angle P-P Mai’s Bar, Irish Rovers 5 v 10 FCUK Inn, Tie’s R Us P-P Easy R-Con Bar
Division 3
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Smile Bar	9	9	0	40	0	27
Biggy’z Rest ‘B’	7	6	1	19	0	18
Wet Bar	9	5	4	1	1	16
The Queen Vic	8	4	4	-4	1	13
The Ranch	7	4	3	-1	0	12
Buffalo Jacks	9	4	5	-6	0	12
Rabbi’s Elephant	8	3	5	-18	0	9
Connections	9	2	7	-31	0	6
Results:  Smile Bar 10 v 5 Buffalo Jacks, The Queen Vic W v L Bye, Wet Bar 10 v 4 Connections

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Tue and Dave.

Indiana moved into first place after winning three points from VFW Post 9876. Antero Ronkainen bowled a 532 series and La Montgomery scratched out a 503 series for Indiana. Aht Johansson had a 503 for VFW. VFW dropped from fifth to sixth place.
Tukata Thompson bowled a 513 series and Noodle Russell had a 512 to lead Green Tree to a four point win over Café Kronborg. Kran Nielsen rolled a 540 series for Café Kronborg. Kronborg dropped from first to second place and Green Tree moved up from seventh to fifth place.
David Shaw continues to bowl well as he posted a 225 game and 580 series to lead Canada to a two-two split against Semper FI. Tao bowled a 533 for Semper FI.
Brother D took three points from Bavaria sending Bavaria down from sixth to seventh place. Tue Pettae had a 202 game and 513 series for Brother D.
Jack Tar won three points from the Blind Team.

Results & Standings May 10 (week 19)
Pos.	Team	Score	Standings
1	Indiana	3-1	46 - 30
2	Café Kronborg	0 - 4	45 - 31
3	Semper FI	2 – 2	45 - 31
4	Canada	2-2	42 - 34
5	Green Tree	4 - 0	40.5 - 35.5
6	VFW Post 9876	1-3	40 - 36
7	Bavaria	1-3	38 - 38
8	Jack Tar	3-1	36.5 - 39.5
9	Brother D	3-1	33 - 43
10	Blind	1-3	14 - 62

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Results & Standings May 10 (week 16)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Taffy’s Bar ‘A’	14	14	0	11	78	28
Dang’s Bar	12	9	3	9	38	18
Legends Darts	13	9	4	8	21	18
Load Out Bar	16	6	10	8	-36	12
Jantha Coffee House	15	5	10	7	-21	10
Bye	16	0	16	0	-80	0
Results:  Legends Darts W v L Bye, Load Out Bar 8 v 1 Taffy’s Bar ‘A’

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Results & Standings May 6 (week 10)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Legends darts	10	10	0	10	68	20
Dang’s Bar	9	6	3	4	7	12
Double Top Bar	10	4	6	5	2	8
Load Out Bar	8	4	4	4	-8	8
Jantha Coffee House	9	2	7	1	-37	4
Irish Rovers	8	1	7	2	-32	2
Results:  Double Top Bar (4-1)-(5-0) v Dang’s Bar, Irish Rovers (0-0)-(9-1) v Legends Darts

 

Khao Noi Sports Bar Thursday Darts League

Results & Standings May 9 (week 9)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts.
Taffy’s	9	9	0	6	39	18
Khao Noi Sports Bar	9	6	3	5	23	12
PJ’S Pub ‘A’	9	5	4	3	7	10
C.S. Coffee	10	5	5	9	2	10
PJ’S Pub ‘B’	9	3	6	3	-21	6
Bye	10	0	10	0	-50	0
Results:  C.S. Coffee 6 v 0 PJ’s Pub ‘A’

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 8 (week 2)

Team	P	W	L	Diff.	Pts.
Meechew Sports Bar	2	2	0	16	4
Legends Darts	2	2	0	14	4
W. Tankies	2	2	0	6	4
I-Rovers	2	1	1	2	2
Yates Bar	2	1	1	-6	2
Scandalic	2	0	2	-10	0
Mai’s Bar	2	0	2	-10	0
Jantha Coffee House	2	0	2	-12	0
Results:  I-Rovers (4-0)-(5-1) Yates Bar, Jantha Coffee House (2-0)-(7-1) W. Tankies, Legends Darts (8-1)-(1-0) Mai’s Bar, Mee Chew Sports Bar (9-1)-(0-0) Scandalic

Golfnutter: Handicap Flaws?

Welcome to Golfnutter’s Blog – a weekly commentary highlighting contemporary golfing issues, in Pattaya and beyond. For more on matters golf, especially Pattaya golf, visit golfnutter.wordpress.com.

Many of Pattaya’s golfing venues may have experienced a strange occurrence over recent years – a marked increase in visitors from Australia occupying podium positions.
No, the number of Australian golfers visiting has not increased. Yes, the winners include returning Aussies who, on previous trips, have not featured anywhere near as prominently. These players are not just winning either. In some cases they have obliterated the field with stableford scores well into the forties. And they are doing it by playing the same old golf they have always played. So, what has happened over recent times that could account for this? And why should this be of concern to us?
If you don’t care about playing in an even field, where handicaps generally reflect ability, and you don’t give a toss about being competitive, don’t bother reading on. Simply continue paying your competition entry fee and regard it as a donation to the next Aussie visitor that happens along, complete with their USGA-based handicap.
Conversely, if you are concerned you’re in good company. Golf Australia (GA) is so concerned that they have decided to ditch their three-year experiment with the USGA Handicapping System. They are about to change to a scheme that relies on assessment of same-day scores, as was previously the case.
From March this year, Australian handicapping started the change to what they refer to as a DSR and Slope dependant scheme, to be known as the GA Handicapping System. DSR stands for Daily Scratch Rating. Sound familiar?
Why the change and what is the relevance to Farang who play golf in Pattaya?
The relevance should be significant to golf venues that accept handicaps issued by GA.
Also of interest will be the fact that Pattaya Sports Club (PSC) venues use the same handicapping system that GA no longer wish to use.
What if the reasons GA found the USGA Handicapping System inappropriate, also applied to PSC venues?
GA adopted the USGA Handicapping System in April 2010. It took barely six months before negative feedback from clubs reached significant levels. Concerns grew such that after 12 months GA commenced a major review of the USGA Handicapping System and the effect it was having on Australian golf. Amongst other things, the reviewers wanted to know why winning scores had markedly increased, and why higher handicappers were now dominating the winner’s podium in club competitions in every state. Put another way, why did a return of 36 points – often a winning score in the past – now not get a mention, and why were lower-markers struggling to get a look-in?
So why does the USGA Handicap System work for USGA but not for GA?
According to advice GA received from USGA experts, the problems had little to do with Slope – a mechanism giving golfers portability of handicap from one course to another. Rather, the problems were more to do with differences in golfing culture in the US compared to Australia. It stands to reason the research and development invested into the USGA Handicap System had been designed to cater for cultural factors predominant in American golf. When certain cultural factors differ, so too does the relevancy of the handicapping system, or so it appears.
As noted by USGA, the vast majority of golf played in the US is social golf, whereas in Australia the dominant form is competition golf played by medium to large fields. Australian golf is mostly about players competing in their club events, primarily individual stableford, stroke or par competitions. American golfers are far more likely to play a friendly (not part of a competition) four-ball better-ball match. From a handicapper’s perspective, this difference has consequences. Here are three big ones:
1. US players often do not putt out, as is normal in 4BBB Match.
2. US players’ clubs do not have oversight of their cards. Players will access their handicap records directly through the internet and enter their own scores.
3. The US system is not set up to require players to return scores on the day of play.
These three points warrant further explanation. The first point, concerning players not putting out, had the USGA regulate for Most Likely Score; a rule enabling players to submit a score for a hole when they don’t putt out. This makes good sense in a golfing culture dominated by small fields, net events, involving four-ball better-ball where the player and his/her partner are competing against just one other team. The contrast with competition golf, where the score of the individual is dependent upon him/her putting out, couldn’t be more marked.
Secondly, the act of players entering their own scores for handicapping, whilst acceptable in the US, is not acceptable in Australia. GA, along with golf administrators in Europe and Great Britain & Ireland – world golf’s other two main handicapping authorities, accept scores for handicapping from competition cards only, or social cards that have been pre-nominated to count for handicapping.
The third point is arguably the biggest. In the US, neither the handicapping system nor the players’ club have same-day access to all scores made at a course. Furthermore, if a player has played away from their home club, they will not be returning the score to the visited club. This prevents having same-day access to complete batches of scores needed to establish a daily course rating. This is one reason why US handicapping administrators needed a predetermined method of assessing course difficulty, thus the USGA Course Rating System.
This review, done in tandem with the USGA, resulted in GA committing to a handicapping system that would more accurately reflect a golfing culture dominated by individual competition play. Any new system, they stated, should be cognisant of:
§ Being primarily tailored for competition golf – as opposed to four-ball match play – and afford each player – whether high or low marker – a reasonable prospect of placing well if that player plays reasonably better than their handicap.
§ A player’s handicap should be reflective of their better performances. It should not increase substantially due to a temporary loss of form.
§ Handicaps should not be subject to the rapid increases nor the volatility experienced currently.
§ The calculation of handicap should take into account the degree of difficulty encountered on the day of play.
§ The calculation of a handicap should be sufficiently flexible to be consistently calculated, irrespective of the mix of handicaps held by players on a course on any given day. Amongst other things, this relates to the fact that high markers, when visiting tough courses, need an increase in handicap to be competitive. Thus the need for Slope – a method allowing equitable portability of handicap.
This then is the background to GA’s review of their handicapping system. Last month, they announced the first tranche of changes as they transition from the USGA Handicapping System to the GA Handicapping System.
Handicap Calculation
Under the USGA system a handicap is the average of the 10 differentials (differential = gross score less the Course Rating) of a player’s most recent 20 scores, the product of which is multiplied by 0.96. This differential system can be summarised as 10 of 20 x 0.96. GA, however, wanted to factor in the following:
· In general, players with higher handicaps are more inconsistent than players with lower handicaps.
· With the 10 of 20 x 0.96 settings, a low-marker’s consistency would be favoured against a high-marker in a field of two.
· If, however, the low-marker were to compete against twenty or more medium to high-markers, at least one if not more would enjoy their “day out” and could return scores of 45 stableford points – a score unachievable for the low-marker.
· As pointed out, most golf in the US is played amongst small groups (four-ball better-ball match). Australian golf typically involves larger fields where the focus is on individual scoring. This necessitates a different handicap calculation setting to that used in the US.
· As a result of the above, GA determined that the handicap calculation settings of 10 of 20 x 0.96 will be changed to 8 of 20 x 0.93.
Social Golf
The USGA Handicapping System recognises scores obtained from social golf. GA prefers to use scores from competition golf only. It will make the occasional exception, but only if the player’s home club permits.
Daily Scratch Rating (DSR)
Under the USGA system, Course Rating does not take into account unusual or extreme weather conditions encountered on the day, difficult pin placements, change in the speed and hardness of greens, nor the performance of other players. Any time a player’s net score is higher than the Course Rating (or totals fewer than 36 points), they will be deemed to have played worse than their handicap – even though they may have won the daily event with a highly skilled performance in dreadful wind and rain.
Under the previous Australian CCR, or present CONGU systems, you would expect a score of, say, net 73 to reduce a handicap, because everyone else played worse, resulting in a CCR – now read DSR – of perhaps 75. In effect, the score was better than handicap after allowing for course and weather, and should be treated accordingly.
The DSR System will establish:
· The average net score for a field.
· The average handicap of a field.
· The field size.
· The type of competition (Stableford, Par, or Stroke).
· The gender of the competitors.
· It will then recalculate a player’s handicap within 24 hours of the completion of the round. This is in marked contrast to the fortnightly review of handicaps done currently.
Anchoring
· The GA Handicapping System will prevent increases in handicap by any more than four strokes beyond their best GA Handicap from the previous 12-month rolling period.
· The Anchor eliminates the capacity for extreme outward movements of handicaps within short spaces of time – as is currently the case.
Conclusion
This is indeed a comprehensive review conducted by Golf Australia. They are to be applauded for their transparency and quick acknowledgement of what was going wrong. The thoroughness of this review and the speed with which they have brought about the relevant changes is also to be commended.
It will be interesting to watch the reaction of other golf authorities who signed up to the USGA Handicapping System, especially those whose members play predominately competition golf as opposed to four-ball match play. If these same authorities remain puzzled as to why those on the podium have winning scores and higher handicaps than previously, then wonder no more.
So don’t bar those lovely Aussie visitors from your comp just yet. Their podium-winning efforts will become a degree or two harder.
Happy golfing!
Golfnutter

Oh Henry

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Steve Ellison
Monday, May6, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford
1st Henry O’Brien (20) 38pts
2nd Mike Newbert (11) 37pts
2nd Ken Aihara (3) 37pts
2nd Jeff Cordeiro (14) 37pts

Ken Aihara & Henry O’Brien.

The huddled masses were all gathered ‘round the bar at O’ Dark Fifteen for our regular Monday expedition to everyone’s favourite golf course, Rayong Green Valley. Designed by Peter Thompson, the five time Open Championship winner has cut a great track through this former pineapple plantation. After recent sanding, the greens are almost back to perfect and played very well indeed.
Henry won again, and this time 2 strokes lighter playing off 20. Erroneously lower is legal and today he played off 20 but was actually a 21! Well done Hank, you are showing those low handicappers that anything is possible.
Mike Newbert and Ken Aihara have also been playing some great golf of late and that is all Jeff Cordeiro ever plays. When Jeff is in town he usually is in the queue for those handsome man vouchers Cap’t. Phil hands out for those chosen few at the top. Good job boyz!
Tuesday, May 7, Phoenix (white tees) – Stableford
1st Henry O’Brien (21) 36pts
2nd Ben Denham (3) 35pts
3rd Michael Whelan (13) 34pts
The pines and palms of the alluring Phoenix were on the agenda for today’s golf, and the lads were looking forward to it immensely. It is so nice to have just a 20 minute drive to a really nice track and right in your own backyard. The Mountain and Ocean 9’s were on today’s menu and they certainly looked appetizing. The course was in terrific condition and the greens were rolling quick and true.

The Golf Club Captain Phil Smedley with Mike Newbert & Ben Denham.

Jeez, this is getting boring. Henry “copy & paste” O’Brien took the top spot again and we all can’t wait until his handicap is adjusted lower. Such are the mathematical anomalies of any handicapping system and sometimes it just works in your favour. Fly like a bird for now Henry!
Young Ben Denham, off just a 3 (what we call a proper golfer), took second on the podium while Michael Whelan, representing the seniors, had a very respectable 34 points today. Michael has been turning in some strong scores lately and must be on the watch for a win in the future.
Thursday, May 9, Royal Lakeside (white tees) – Stableford
1st Mike Newbert (11) 37pts
2nd Ben Denham (3) 35pts
T3rd Peter Rogers (18) 34pts
T3rd Rusty Barfield (5) 34pts
Unlike Phoenix, this course is definitely not in our backyard, but we got here in just over 45 minutes today and it is well worth the drive. Royal Lakeside has always been in top condition and today was no exception.
“The Montauk Mauler” was bound and determined to get in one more win before the annual migration back to Long Island, N.Y. for a beautiful summer at the beach. Unlike Pattaya, the beaches there are actually clean (but at least we have the warm water here). And so Mike Newbert took the win for the day and gives the other guys a chance for once. Mike, a former firefighter in N.Y.C., has had a good run and has improved his game considerably - so have a good trip back buddy and see you next year!
Ben Denham has also been playing well, but you would expect that of a guy that plays off 3, he has to earn his Stableford points on every hole. Peter Rogers staged a comeback to tie for third with fellow Yank Rusty Barfield, a solid 5 handicapper and a heck of a nice guy.
Thanks to all of you guys for joining The Golf Club and for all your support. Let the good times roll!
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We try to schedule summer “Sports Days”, 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... all handicaps welcome!

Sensational Surap triumphs at Khao Kheow

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Tuesday, May 7, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Jon Haugen (10) 32pts
2nd Ian Henderson (15) 28pts
3rd Dave Richardson (24) 27pts
Crystal Bay was the game today and after a quick check-in teed off on C1 35 minutes ahead of our scheduled start time. Welcomes went out to Marie and Lionel Rowles from Sydney, Ian Henderson from Melbourne and the return of Tore Eliassen, Jon Haugen and Esra Duangsri.
Conditions today were sweltering and despite the course being in fine condition, the weather led to poor some scores. The course was fairly empty so we had a quick round of 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Jon Haugen was the winner with 32 points ahead of Ian Henderson in second and Dave Richardson
Thursday, May 9, Khao Kheow A&C – Stableford
1st Surap Korboon (10) 42pts
2nd Ed Wykoff (11) 41pts
3rd Ian Henderson (15) 38pts
4th Wanta Dacha (9) 35pts
It was off to Khao Kheow Country Club on Thursday to play the A and C loops and when we arrived the course was not busy so we got off 25 minutes early under still sunny and hot skies. A threatening thunderstorm with 3 holes left to play caused us to stop for a few minutes to let the storm pass with only a sprinkle of rain.
The course on the day was in good condition with the B loop closed for the returfing of several holes, probably not opening until the high season. Even with the storm threat we managed to get around in a little over 4 hours,
Welcomes went out today to Ed Wykoff and Surap Korboon and a goodbye to Ian Henderson, back to Aussie.
Surap Korboon was the winner with a whopping 42 points, while Ed Wykoff was just behind with 41. Ian henderson was third and Wanta Dacha completed the podium in fourth.

Makara & Hill have the winning formula

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Monday winner Greg Hill with John Player, Sel Wegner and Sel & Greg’s respective ladies.

Monday, May 6, Burapha – 2-Person Scramble
General Jack’s official birthday was on Saturday (4th May) but his two person-scramble was held here at Burapha on Monday 6th, attracting an amazing field of 72 players. What was even more amazing, for which everybody should give themselves at pat on the back, there were no “no-shows” and nobody was forgotten.
Although a holiday, the management once again extended their normal rates to the Outback and went one stage further by giving us the benefit of a two-tee start on the C & D nines. We were away early, which caught a couple of groups on the back foot and generally the pace of play was good but it did get a bit slow at the back of the groups which started on C; as one group lost over two holes and right at the back, the last group became totally detached.

Birthday boy Jack, with his wife, Mee.

The greens on C had recently been cored and hadn’t fully recovered, the surface was bumpy and slow whilst in complete contrast, the D greens were great and quick, probably in the aftermath of the recent Pro event.
The two-man scramble/ambrose Jack chose, was a little more generous to the higher handicappers than is usual here in Pattaya, giving the teams 25% of the combined handicap (instead of 20%), the usual six drives each, and the ball chosen each time must be played first and as it lies; except on the green, when players may putt in either order.
It was a swelteringly hot day with no rain and even with carts many commented about the intense heat with some players only just making it to the line and back at the bar. Copious amounts of various liquids were consumed by many; in some cases to replace the lost fluids and in other cases, that was just an excuse. For Jack, it was the last day of three days of celebration and judging by some of the pictures seen, it looked like it!

The Karratha visitors’ last game with the Outback (from the left): Sydney & Marie Coetzer with Yvonne Baker & Jeff Gill.

At presentation Jack thanked everybody for coming and explained a bit more about all the work and improvements that is currently ongoing at the Outback; which will include a “sail” to cover a new terrace area and new bar, as well as live band facilities and an air-conditioned restaurant. The work is expected to be complete by the end of June.
With prize money down to tenth place, Andy Makara & Greg Hill won the day with a net score of 65.8, just 0.2 ahead of Paul Greenaway and the Sugarman. Two of our visitors from Karratha, Yvonne Baker & Jeff Gill, were one point further back on 67 dead and they beat Barry Copestake & Paul Hack on count back.
There was the usual complimentary food, as is the custom for events like this; Nigel Cannon roused everybody to the words of Happy Birthday and Mee, Jack’s new wife, brought in his birthday cake.
There were four near pin prizes won by Dennis Persson, Dennis Pelly, Kathy Doody & Peter Jeucken.
Finally, thanks to Capt’ Steve who ran the day and processed all the scores, some of which were very difficult to read.
1st Andy Makara &Greg Hill, net 65.8
2nd Paul Greenaway & Sugar Ray Handford, net 66.0
3rd Yvonne Baker & Jeff Gill, net 67.0
4th Barry Copestake & Paul Hack, net 67.0
5th Steve Poznanski & Rosco Langoulant, net 67.5
6th Doug Shrader & Billy Gray, net 67.5
7th Pete Stonebridge & John Cunningham, net 67.8
8th Eddy Beilby & Peter LeNoury, net 68.5
9th Geoff Stimpson & Terry O’Connor, net 68.5
10th Martin O’Neill & Carl Luke, net 69.0
Tuesday, May 7, Laem Chabang B & C - Stableford
As Khao Kheow was hosting a tournament today, we switched the venue across to Laem Chabang, to take advantage of their “Sports Day” rate. 15 players turned out to play the B & C loops at the somewhat later than usual time of 11.16. The rain gave some trouble for a couple of holes, but the course soon dried out and play continued almost as though it had never rained.
The result was dominated by visitors, which was hardly surprising with only four local players in the field. Yvonne Baker was the winner with 36pts, ahead of Russ Rylance (33) and Jeff Gill (32) and one of Tim Knight’s visiting friends, Frank Nottle fourth on 31. The highest finishing PSC member was John O’Keefe in seventh with 28.
There were three ‘2’s from Yvonne Baker, Les Grimsditch & Peter Jeucken
1st Yvonne Baker (28) 36pts
2nd Russ Rylance (15) 33pts
3rd Jeff Gill (16) 32pts
4th Frank Nottle (9) 31pts
Wednesday, May 8, Greenwood - Stableford
The alternate venue this Wednesday, which was Greenwood, could only muster one group of four players, which was slightly disappointing, nevertheless a good day for Ken Davidson who took the win with a mere 27pts and scored the only ‘2’.
For the record they played the A & C nines.
1st Ken Davidson (21) 27pts
2nd Colin Jones (21) 25pts
3rd Pat Dennis (18) 24pts
4th Graham Laughlin (18) 21pts
Wednesday, May 8, Siam Plantation - Stableford
The low season is upon us here at Siam Plantation, one month behind all the other courses, except its sister course, Siam Old Course. The Sports Day here is a Tuesday, the same day as the Old Course, Green Valley & Laem Chabang but the Outback will continue on Wednesdays here whenever possible (i.e. subject to tournaments), throughout the low season at their exclusive promotional rate.
For the next two weeks (15th & 22nd), there is a BMW tournament here, when the Outback will be at Khao Kheow instead, whilst offering Laem Chabang on a Tuesday; from 29th May and throughout June, we are back to normal here every Wednesday.
As for the golf here on the B & C nines, a good turnout of 23 players, split into two divisions were headed by ‘Lumpy’ in Div A with the day’s best 37pts, followed home by New York Steve with 35, beating playing partner Paul Rodgers on count back. Paul had been going really well to the turn with probably his best ever 23pts (39 gross) until an unfortunate incident put him off his swing, as he came back with only 12.
Well done to Kent Griffith who won Div B with 34pts, from Max Bracegirdle (welcome back) on 33 and Waldo, third on 32.
There were no ‘2’s.
Div A (0-15)
1st Lumpy Russell (14) 37pts
2nd Steve Poznanski (12) 35pts
3rd Paul Rodgers (15) 35pts
4th Doug Shrader (9) 33pts
Div B (16+)
1st Kent Griffith (17) 34pts
2nd Max Bracegirdle (27) 33pts
3rd Stephen Blazsanyik (17) 32pts
4th Tony Bernhagen (16) 30pts
Friday, May 10, Green Valley – Stableford
By reason of a members’ tournament here at Green Valley, the Outbackers found themselves savouring the delights of St. Andrews, which was reported to be in good condition, although the greens were a little slow and bumpy, as they had recently been cored and sanded.
Nevertheless the 45 players scored well on the course, producing some outstanding scores, particularly in Div B covering a range of just three handicaps (14–16), where unfortunately for Barry & Joe, with 39 & 37pts respectively, neither of them earned a podium place. The win, and the best score of the day, went to “Race 2 Bkk” leader Murray Hart with an excellent 41pts, from Tony Berghagen (40) in second and Russ Rylance in third on 39.
Mike Missler, who hasn’t played with the Outback for some time, celebrated his return by winning Div A with 37pts from playing partner Kim Chung (36), who was having his first game with the Outback, so welcome to you Kim. Paul Greenaway filled the third place, also with 36, losing out on count back to Kim.
Familiar names headed the other divisions, namely the returning John Player who took second place in Div C with 38pts just one point behind winner Carl Luke and the Sugarman third on 37, and Div D was won by that man again, Andy Makara on 34pts, ahead on Tim Knight with 31. But at last Andy’s handicap has started to come down after enjoying a couple of months of success, which just be a little harder to come by, now he’s down to 27.
There were three ‘2’s from Barry Copestake (3rd), John Cunningham (10th) and Russ Rylance (17th).
Div A (0-13)
1st Mike Missler (6) 37pts
2nd Kim Chung (5) 36pts
3rd Paul Greenaway (7) 36pts
Div B (14-16)
1st Murray Hart (14) 41pts
2nd Tony Bernhagen (16) 40pts
3rd Russ Rylance (15) 39pts
Div C (17-18)
1st Carl Luke (17) 39pts
2nd John Player (18) 38pts
3rd Sugar Ray Handford (17) 37pts
Div D (19+)
1st Andy Makara (27) 34pts
2nd Tim Knight (21) 31pts
3rd John Dearden (21) 30pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

Top of the Gulf Regatta goes from strength to strength

International skippers to the fore at 2013 Top of the Gulf Regatta

The 2013 Top of the Gulf Regatta, sailed out of Ocean Marina in Jomtien from May 4-7 was another huge success with the large fleet enjoying superb sailing conditions throughout the 4 days of competition.

The 2013 Top of the Gulf Regatta, sailed out of Ocean Marina in Jomtien from May 4-7 saw four days of spectacular sailing off the coast of Pattaya with more than 250 boats and 500+ sailors from all corners of the globe taking part.
The international field was certainly well represented in the winners’ enclosure but all those taking part would have enjoyed the superb sailing conditions prevalent throughout the duration of the regatta, as well as the not insignificant hospitality proffered by hosts Ocean Marina Yacht Club.

Perfect sailing conditions greeted the sailors at this year’s Regatta.

In the IRC Racing Class 1, Singapore’s Foxy Lady, skippered by Bill Bremner, secured the overall class win ahead of local favourite Wan Marang helmed by Kevin Whitcraft, while David Ross’ KukuKERchu completed the podium in third place.
This ninth regatta saw a large contingent of sailors from ‘down under’ taking part headed by the likes of Sydney Hobart regular Matt Allen and his crew on Ichiban, which took the IRC Racing 2 line honours with six wins out of the seven races completed. Allen’s team finished well up on Sattahip based Royal Thai Navy 1, skippered by Cpl. Wiwat Poonpat, and Dean Rheault’s Souy 1, placing second and third respectively.
Singapore Management University had three teams racing in the regatta this year – two in the Platu class and one in IRC Racing 3 – and it was Hi Jinks, skippered by Peiquan Chung in the latter that finished the Regatta undefeated and were crowned class champions. Second place went to the all-Thai team on Sansiri Ooh la la, skippered by Patinyakorn Buranrom, and third to Tai Two, skippered by Sadunori Osada.

‘Easy Tiger’ races to the mark in the Coronation Cup.

Australia was well represented in the prestigious Coronation Cup for the one-design Platu craft this year with four boats from the southern continent, including defending champion Chris Way on Easy Tiger IV, lining up in the 16-strong fleet. As it transpired, two of the Aussie contenders would battle it out for the top honours on the final day of racing but Easy Tiger IV would not be one of them after losing ground in the early races and playing catch-up thereafter. Despite winning the eighth race of the series, Way’s team had too much to do in the defence of their crown and had to be content with a fourth place finish.

Australia’s ‘Black Betty’ was the toast of the Platu fleet.

With Hong Kong based Andrew Moore securing third position on Tigrana, it left the major honours to be decided between Black Betty, skippered by Gary McNally, and Problem Child, skippered by Brian McMaster, who battled down to the wire. In the end it was the consistency and four first place finishes by Black Betty that made the difference, with them being crowned 2013 Coronation Cup champions at the final prize-giving and Gala Dinner at Ocean Marina Yacht Club. A 1, 2 finish on the final day was not enough to secure the title for the crew on Problem Child, but they were worthy runners-up.

Fighting for position in the Monohull Dinghy class.

Meanwhile, a late surge by Sonic, skippered by Kirati Assakul proved to be too little too late to make a dent in the unassailable lead of David Liddell’s Miss Saigon in the Ocean Multihulls class while Scott Galle’s Black Swan completed the podium in third.
As reported in last week’s Pattaya Mail, there were no surprises on the final day of racing in the Open Beach Multihull class where Damrongsak and Sakda Vongtim remained undefeated over the eight race series to finish well ahead of the Grahame Southwick/ Khaipho and Teerapong Watiboonruang/ Passuree Sompalasin pairings who took second and third overall.

‘Foxy Lady’ leads the IRC-1 fleet over the start line.

Olympian Keerati Bualong easily won the Single-Handed Monohull Dinghy class to head second placed Natthawut Paenyaem by eight points and the Thai duo of Sittisart Ponpun and Peerapol Wisaka took three wins on the final day to win the Double-Handed Monohull Dinghy honours.
Strong winds on Day 2 of the regatta had left a depleted fleet on the final day of racing for the Formula 18 class where Pom Green and Apple, sailing the new Olympic Nacra 17, edged Michael Scantlebury and David Harris.

Lasers battle for honours on Day 1 of the Regatta,

The Thailand National Optimist Championship, this year sponsored by property developer Sansiri Group, saw a huge fleet of 128 youngsters battle it out in some of the fiercest competition of the week. 14-year old Thai junior Pongsapat Pumyam proved to be the most consistent sailor in the fleet and finished the event in style by winning the last race of the series to be crowned this year’s champion.
Finally, the RS:One windsurfing class, raced over two days, was part of the NeilPryde Racing Series and included 28 competitors from India, Myanmar and Thailand, including many youth sailors from the Windsurfing Association of Thailand’s (WATH) Youth Development Programme. After seven races it was a Thai clean sweep on the honours board with Thanatip Seubyubon winning the Youth Men’s division while compatriot Duangkamon Phongern took the Youth Women’s division. Navin Singsart claimed the series win in the Men’s division with Siripon Kaewduangngam taking the Women’s title.

The crew on ‘Ichiban’ race to another win in the IRC 2 class.

Final prizes in all the classes were awarded at a glitzy marina-side Gala Dinner on Tuesday, May 7. The ninth TOG Regatta had proved to be another outstanding success, with no small part played by the regatta sponsors, race officials, organizers and not least the Ocean Marina Yacht Club which had once again proved to be a fine host of this burgeoning event on the international sailing calendar.
(Source: Infinity Communications / Photos: Martin Bilsborrow)

Trevor Schirmer cleans up

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 6, Crystal Bay - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Trevor Schirmer (14) 41pts
2nd Darryl Kellett (16) 39pts
3rd Markku Tynell (25) 38pts
4th Takeshi Hakozaki (10) 36pts
A big change from the previous week’s Bank Holiday with the course almost empty by comparison and with the skies overcast and just a little wind, the conditions were almost perfect as the scores returned by the majority of the field evidenced. With everything to the player’s advantage it was no surprise to find that the CSS for the day went down to 71 as the competitors revelled in the great condition of the course, especially the greens which were flat and fast.

Trevor Schirmer.
Trevor Schirmer seems to be unstoppable since returning from his knee surgery and he put in yet another good score that ensured that his handicap will continue to drop like a stone. The Exceptional Scoring Handicap Reduction (ESR) added another half a shot to the normal reduction for the round, Trevor having returned two scores better than 4 below his handicap within ten consecutive rounds.
Trevor’s score of five under was good enough to see off the challenge of Darryl Kellett, who once again found him to be two shots better as has been the case on several occasions recently, even though he was three under on the day.
Markku Tynell slipped into third place with a very nice two under handicap, with Takeshi Hakozaki not able to match the leaders even with the advantage of members local knowledge although he did do well on the par threes.

Darryl Kellett.
Markku Tynell had the sole 2 in the second division whilst Victor Moshonkin had one and Takeshi Hakozaki had two in the second division.
Prior to the presentation of the prizes there was a welcome for new member Keith Wheeler and welcome backs for Lex McDonald, Victor Moshonkin and Brian Dunn.
Wednesday, May 8, Treasure Hill - Stableford
CSS 74
1st Lex McDonald (12) 33pts
2nd Jamie King (16) 31pts
3rd Allen Raaen (9) 30pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (14) 30pts
With the weather fine once more, if rather on the sweltering side, the players left for what is now a very quick trip up the 331 to one of the more popular courses, which is also offering very good value during the low season with an all-up price including a cart and caddy of 1,500 baht. This puts to shame some of the other courses that are demanding 1,800 baht plus just for the green fee when the group is less than 20 players. A harebrained scheme which will have a short life as the low season starts to bite the tills for those courses that have been led down such a dangerous economic path in these difficult times throughout the world.

Lex McDonald.
Treasure Hill is one of the toughest challenges on the circuit with its well laid out holes and the deceptive length and even in the pristine condition it was found in did not assist the hopefuls, with no-one able to match the criteria to stop the day becoming non-counting for handicap amendments.
Lex McDonald, having struggled with the previous course, got his head down and hit almost every fairway on his way to a maiden win out of Soi 13, albeit with a score that would not have been expected to be in the frame after Monday’s results. But win he did and by two clear from Jamie King who would have been even closer without the couple of blobs on the back nine when the heat got to him, so he had to settle for a well earned second place.
Allen Raaen took third after winning a count back over the ever-present Trevor Schirmer with a better 15 to 14.
There were no 2’s in the first division but Brian Dunn had one in the second division, after a recount, to sweep the pot.
Before the presentations were made there were welcome backs for Don Everett and Tom Wilson.
Friday, May 10, Pattana A & B (yellow tees) - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Trevor Schirmer (14) 39pts
2nd Darryl Kellett (16) 37pts
3rd Allen Raaen (9) 36pts
4th Markku Tynell (25) 33pts
5th Mike Hill (19) 32pts
It is always a pleasure to play one of the other courses set just off the 331, especially when the courses set for the day are the A and B layouts with a par of 73 as the front nine contains one of the few par sixes in the region. But with the group playing from the yellow tees this monster had been reduced to just 590 yards downhill and more than one of the contestants managed to reach in two, with one of them actually going through the back and sadly ending up with a bogey.
Once again it was Trevor Schirmer leading the way home with yet another stunning round that once again saw off the challenge of Darryl Kellett by two. It is rumoured that Darryl will be looking into the possibilities of having the same operation as Trevor had, possibly on both knees, when he returns to Oz in the hopes that he will become competitive with the Bionic Man when he next returns to Pattaya.
Allen Raaen took third place again although this time with a very respectable level handicap round one behind Darryl.
Markku Tynell slipped into fourth spot just a shot ahead of Mike Hill who is starting to come to terms with his new and lower handicap and showing signs that it will not be too long before another reduction will be seen.
There were no 2’s in either division.
Back at The Haven there was a welcome for new member Brain Johnson and a review of the Ashes replica urn in preparation for the upcoming Test Series when it will contested after a hiatus of two and a half years, much to the pleasure of the many Australian players assembled for the prize giving which resulted in a few predictions as to the possible outcome.
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.

‘Hacky’ wins again

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Fred Dineley & Peter Blackburn
Thursday, May 9, Crystal Bay C & A – Stableford
There were 18 starters for the day’s competition at the ever-popular Crystal Bay Golf Course and they assembled at The Growling Swan eager to hit the road. There was a very good contingent of Growling Swan Delinquents and in fact they had one of the two mini vans reserved specifically for themselves (it’s always better to keep them separate from our non-delinquent golfers!)

Ebrahim (left) & Paul Hack.

Departing the GS 5 minutes early at 8.25 am on a warm sunny morning there was only light traffic which made the journey just 45 minutes. The first four-ball got away 15 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.45 am and as usual the course was in tip top condition with the greens quite fast & tricky for some.
There were some pretty good scores posted but just 4 golfers managed to play better than their handicap. It was a humid day with a drop of rain before the start and later on thunder could be heard but no more rain eventuated.
As a result of the small field we had just the one grade with six podium places and 4 nearest the pins & longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
Continuing his winning form was Paul Hack who won the day with a fine 42 points, 2 points ahead of Ebrahim in second place. There was a count back for third & fourth with 2 golfers on 37 points resulting in Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper just pipping Fred Dineley. Sal Brizzi finished in fifth spot with 35 points, 1 point ahead of 6th place-getter Alain “Inspector Clouseau”.
1st Paul Hack (13) 42pts
2nd Ebrahim (15) 40pts
3rd Sandy Leiper (34) 37pts
4th Fred Dineley (27) 37pts
5th Sal Brizzi (7) 35pts
6th Alain Taddei (17) 34pts
Near Pins: C4 – Paul Hack, C7 – Alain Taddei, A8 – Fred Dineley.
Long Putts: C9 – Shane Young, A9 – Shane Young
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 once again won by Growling Swan Mine Host Peter Grey who naturally wore the NAGA Cap with distinction in the bar afterwards.
Note: Growling Swan Golf, the home of friendly golf in Pattaya 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].

Wegner on the warpath

The Billabong Golf Bar

Peter Shuttleworth, Sel Wegner & Chris Dodd.

Monday, May 6, Eastern Star - Stableford
Travelling down to Eastern Star the sky was looking just a little dark and stormy but nothing came of it until we were walking off the 18th hole we got a few spits of rain but that was it.

Kevin Wild & Greig Ritchie.
The course is in great condition at the moment but the greens were not the lightening fast ones you normally associate with this course - getting the ball to the hole was an effort in itself.
That didn’t stop Greig Ritchie and Kevin Wild from having good scores however, with Kev taking second spot on 36 points and Greig with 38 taking the line honours. Every other score was in the 30s so the greens cant have been that bad for everybody.
Wednesday, May 8, Green Valley - Stableford
Green Valley, our normal venue for Wednesday, and after a bit of a mix up we were off to an early start in hot, steamy weather, although it wasn’t the weather that got Rob Heenan. After he lost about 20 golf balls he reckoned it was time for the bar.

George Barrie, Lloyd Shuttleworth & Steve Croy.

The greens had just been sanded and were as slow as and a few three putts were had, but they didn’t bother Sell Wegner, who was the winner today with a magnificent 41 points, or Chris Dodd. Chris came second with 40 points and third was Peter Shuttleworth in a three-way count back over Owen Walkley and Bob Finley.
There were two ‘2’s, coming from Lloyd Shuttleworth with a 15-foot putt, and a magnificent chip in from Capt Bob.
Friday, May 10, Bangpra - Stableford
Another hot day today as we went to play Bangpra for the first time in ages. Rain threatened and finally caught up with us on the 17th - thank God there was a hut to hide in for the fifteen minutes of the storm, then it was back out for the last 2 holes.
Welcome today to Max and Geoff Bracegirdle and goodbye to Geoff and Chris Dodd as they headed home.
The day was won by Steve Croy, his first win ever, with 34 points. He got there on a count back over Lloyd Shuttleworth, also 34 points. In third was George Barrie on 32 points, eventually getting his prize after the Capt. inadvertently gave it to Greig Ritchie by mistake, sorry mate it won’t happen again.
Once again there were no ‘2’s - just a couple of should haves
Note: If you are looking for a game with some friendly golfers, give Bob a call on 082 204 3411 or call into the bar just off Siam Country Club Road looking straight down Lake Mabprachan.

Habgood gets the medal

PSC Golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Peter Habgood (left) wins the KPK voucher.

Monday, May 6, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Another public holiday today but we had a reasonable deal at Mountain Shadow, and arrived at the course to find it almost deserted. One has to wonder at the wisdom of courses increasing green fees by 50% or more on public holidays, when the cheap courses are packed and many residents simply take the option not to play on the more expensive courses.
Despite an ominous weather forecast on the BBC news this morning, the skies were bright and sunny, and remained so throughout the day, with the only complaints being about the heat.
It’s always a pleasure to play on an empty course and our first three-ball, led by the always impatient John Graham, flew round the course in under three and a half hours. The course was in reasonable shape and the greens were slower than they can be, so the scores were generally better than usual on this always tricky track.
John Graham took the overall honours on the day, with his two playing partners complaining that they had to trot down the fairways to keep up with him.
1st John Graham (12) 37pts
2nd Mashi Kaneta (15) 36pts
3rd Tony Robbins (14) 33pts
Near Pins: Tony Robbins, Lee Butler, Neil Griffin and PJ Redmond
Wednesday, May 8, Crystal Bay A & C – Medal
Just three groups today for our first medal competition of the month, once again sponsored by KPK Foods. We arrived at Crystal Bay under bright blue skies with a gentle breeze blowing in from the sea, so conditions were perfect for another round of millionaire’s golf.
After the first group were delayed when Reg Smart apparently lost his buggy, we sent “Speedy” Graham and partners off again with an empty course ahead of them - little wonder then that the group was back in the clubhouse for the second game running in under three and a half hours.
Peter “I hate medal competitions” Habgood once again produced the best score of the day, to win the honours by four clear strokes ahead of “Speedy” Graham, with Reg Smart coming in third. Peter has now won the last three medal competitions with two scores of net 65, and one slightly off day when he could only manage a 67 – some going for someone who is also in the running for this month’s booby prize for the lowest Stableford score!
Mark West deserves special mention for a kamikaze effort on the par-5 eighteenth hole, where he managed to score a 13 after refusing to take an unplayable lie in the bunker – full marks for effort and determination, but sometimes discretion is the better part of valour!
1st Peter Habgood (21) net 65
2nd John Graham (12) net 69
3rd Reg Smart (30) net 70
Near Pins: Geoff Parker, Jean Morel and Peter Habgood.
Friday, May 10, St. Andrews – Stableford
A great start to the day as Peter Habgood (who’s never been known to go near a kitchen – never mind to cook!) donated the KPK food voucher he’d won on Wednesday to provide sausage sandwiches to all the players prior to our departure from The Ranch.
Our original booking at Green Valley had to be changed due to a member’s competition being held there, but the management offered us the alternative of playing the St. Andrews course at the same rate (plus buggy of course).
It’s about a year since we last played here, so myself and several other regulars were looking forward to the opportunity of playing this testing track again. It was disappointing to find that all 18 greens had recently been scarified and sanded, and it has to said that the course was generally not up to its previous high standard but it was still an enjoyable day. The tee shot on the par-6 fourth hole (from the yellow tees) presents a daunting challenge to the shorter hitters with a 220 yards carry over water, and was the subject of much discussion in the clubhouse.
After playing two quick rounds earlier in the week, we had the misfortune to be sent out behind a slow five-ball, so even with the compulsory buggies we were forced to endure our first five hour round for quite some time.
The slow pace of the round didn’t put off the normally speedy John Graham, who recorded the best score of the day, with Peter Habgood taking second place on a count back ahead of Ken Davidson.
The shot of the day was produced by Neil Griffin, who elected to take a driver on the 175 yard, par 3 fifth hole. His playing partners watched in awe as the tee shot went screaming towards the water behind the green, before hitting a small tree and rebounding back to the green, rolling to about 6 feet from the pin – all part of the plan according to Neil!
1st John Graham (12) 34pts
2nd Peter Habgood (18) 32pts
3rd Ken Davidson (23) 32pts
Near Pins: Reg Smart and Neil Griffin
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 www. bunkersociety.com.

Spendley takes it on count-back

Golf from The Beaver Bar & Grill

Friday, May 10, saw 14 golfers arrive at Emerald Golf Resort to undertake another challenge of this trying course. The layout was in good condition and the greens are smoothing out nicely.
Quite a few of those challenging this course came home with scores matching their handicaps. David Spendley took high honors today, winning on count back over Roger Ison and Johnnie Williams as all had 36 stableford points. Roger Ison also won nearest to the pin.
After completing their golf, all retired to the Beaver Bar for lunch and cool drinks. Larry again expresses his appreciation for those attending.

Northern lights shine again

Golf from The Players Lounge

Tuesday, May 7, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Mark Wood (8) 35pts
2nd Gareth Gill (11) 32pts
3rd Mick Beresford (18) 25pts

Mark Wood.

The task at hand today was a trip to Bangpra to battle the lightning fast greens and the monkeys. The course was in excellent condition, however the heat and humidity was unbelievable.
Aberdeen’s Mark Wood did it best as he topped A Flight with a best on the day 35 points. Big Gareth Gill was three shots in arrears to take the silver leaving the flamboyant Mickey Beresford to close the flight.
Thursday, May 9, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Mark Wood (8) 39pts
2nd Bob Newell ( ) 37pts
3rd Gareth Gill ( ) 35pts
Our title guy Mark Wood has been on form as of late and certainly was on this day as his very creditable 39 points made it three wins out of three games. Mark put a two stroke gap between himself and ‘Broad more’ Bob. Bob then did the same to ‘Big’ Gareth Gill.
Saturday, May 11, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Mark Wood (7) 36pts
2nd Bob St Aubin (13) 35pts
3rd bob Newell (6) 31pts
A tidy group turned out for our Saturday knock-about at Green Valley. The course was, as always, in excellent condition with not too much sand in the bunkers.
The rest is about the same as Tuesday and Thursday, in fact one could be forgiven if one thought he was reading a duplicate article. Mark Wood again took the man of the match honours with a solid 36 points. Thinking about it, since the inception of the Players Lounge he is the only man of the match we have had. Sickening! Well that’s what the runner up Bob St Aubin did on the ninth hole aided by a few Leo’s. ‘Broad more’ Bob negotiated the greens (carrots, peas, potatoes) etc. to take the bronze with 31 points.
Note: The Players Lounge is situated on Soi Wat Sutthawas near to the Courtyard Pub, just off Soi Siam Country Club. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list otherwise give Bob a ring on 080 096 8232.

It’s Bob ‘Saint’ Aubin

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, May 5, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Bob St Aubin (14) 40pts
2nd Jon Haugen (10) 39pts
3rd Terry Mangan (13) 38pts
B Flight
1st Jim Yang (20) 38pts
2nd Colin Davis (17) 37pts
3rd Stuart Brown (25) 35pts
Near Pins: No 9 Jim Bell, No 12 Ronnie Portis, No 16 Pat Reagan.

Christy Knight.
Hey where’s the old title guy today? Well before the field could get too smug about keeping Mr. Freddy Star (trek) off the podium, it was pointed out that he had to take a rest day to let his golf shafts cool down. So that left Bob St Aubin an opportunity to vault to the top of the A Flight podium with a magnificent 40 points. Bob was followed by Jon Haugen with a sparkling 39 points. Co. Wicklow’s Terry ‘pork chop’ Mangan took the bronze with a solid 38 points.
Jim Lang led the United Nations B Flight as he finished ahead of the Donkey, who in-turn edged Stuart Brown.
Bob StAubin, Barry Copestake, Bob Watson and Jean LaRoche split the 2’ pot.
Bob StAubin could not get back to Lewiinski’s in time for the presentation as he was way laid in a soi somewhere, so Bob kindly donated his A Flight and 2’s winnings to the Bann Jing Jai Orphanage Building fund (hence the title of this week’s article).
Tuesday, May 7, Greenwood - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Hynard (12) 32pts
2nd Yves Moutier (11) 30pts
B Flight
1st Tom Gorey (22) 38pts
2nd Marlene Prudden (22) 33pts
Wily Tom Gorey was the only player to solve the Greenwood riddle on the day, as he stood as the lone competitor under par. In fact, Tom’s 38 points was five strokes clear of the Sheila from down under who showed who wears the pants in the Prudden family as she edged the old man off the podium steps.
The flagship flight was at half mast as Peter ‘the Right Honorable’ Hynard needed a mere 32 points for the top step. Yves Moutier stood shyly on the second step with 30 points.
No 2’s were recorded so it was a rollover to Wednesday.
Wednesday, May 8, Burapha A&B - Stableford
A Flight
1st Ed Wyckoff (11) 39pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (14) 36pts
3rd Gary Greene ((10) 36pts
B Flight
1st Martin Allard (23) 39pts
2nd Colin Davis (17) 32pts
3rd Jim Elphick (23) 31pts
A pair of 39 point efforts were knotted for the man of the match, as A Flight put forward Ed ‘our man in the White house’ Wyckoff and B Flight counted with the man riding a purple patch, Martin Allard.
The minor places in B Flight contained the management trio of the Donkey, Jimmy ‘two gloves’ and Don O’corleone Henshaw. A count back saw the Donkey prevail over Jimmy, while Peter was left propping up the bar sipping a drop of the black stuff (sipping?)
A count back was also required in the big boys flight with Pierre ‘the Magician’ pulling the old five card trick over Gary Greene.
The happiest player at the presentation was Ireland’s Pat Regan as he claimed the rollover 2’s pot.
Thursday, May 9, Phoenix – Stableford
A Flight
1st les Cobban (10) 36pts
2nd Paul Danietz (8) 36pts
3rd Jon Hagen (10) 34pts
B Flight
1st Christy Knight (23) 40pts
2nd Colin Davis (17) 35pts
3rd Martin Allard (23) 33pts
Christy ‘Good’ Knight’s’ cracking performance on this day may well have warranted him the title slot - but for Mr. St Aubin and his Sunday performance.
Christy, who is now putting a concerted effort into his game, is seeing inspiring results. His winning total was five points clear of his B Flight mate the Donkey and a further two clear of the inform Martin Allard.
Less Cobban racked up a first place in A Flight to go with his Wednesday top spot in B Flight, although Les did need the aid of a count back over the luckless Paul Danietz as both players were locked on even par rounds. The calculator was out again to sort out a three-way logjam between Jon Haugen, JP Maffrey and Irelands young Pat Regan, the scales tipping in Jon’s favour.
JP Maffray did get a 2 as a bit of compensation along with Thierry Petrement and Peter Hynard.
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 otherwise why not call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.

Chelo noses ahead

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society visited Emerald on Monday, 6th May, to play a stableford competition on the course which was well prepared, except for the greens which were ready for remedial maintenance and as a result were very slow. This had the effect of adding a few shots to everyone’s round and therefore scores were on the high side.
In third place was the form man, Robbie Taylor with 31 points, just one behind Mike Wilsher and his solid 32 point return. The winner was John Chelo, still recovering from a serious broken nose after a mysterious and sober fall on Second Road a week or so ago. John used all his concentration and “nouse” to wheedle out 33 points on a day when scoring was tough.
There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to Dave Plaiter who was two under par after thirteen holes only to fail to register another point during the closing five holes of his round. There will always be days like this in a golfer’s life and next time out the golf may not be so precise but the scores will nevertheless be better.
Hookey wins tough test
On Wednesday, 8th May the Pattaya Golf Society visited Mountain Shadow to play a stableford competition on the tough course, from the blue tees, on a day which was perfect for golf and on a course which was in excellent condition. An empty course saw the group tee off thirty minutes early and a tight contest was in prospect between a couple of very good in-form golfers.
So it was then that Wichai Tananusorn found himself in the frame again, his 32 taking third place with the best gross of the day. One ahead in second was Canadian John Chelo, well on the road to recovering his form after a recent accident, and his 33 points was almost enough to push the winner Garry Hookey all the way. As it turned out Garry’s score remained the best over the three remaining groups and he also had the pleasure of sharing the ‘2’s pot with Khun Wichai and Robbie Taylor.
Robbie also had the distinction of picking up a rare Booby Bevy after imploding on the back nine leaving him some eight shots in arrears after a level par opening nine.
The biggest question of the day is “How does Mountain Shadow hide its secret?” A course as welcoming as this and in as good condition should have Pattaya golfers queuing up for the experience of playing there.
Positive Plaiter
The week ended for the Pattaya Golf Society with a visit to Khao Kheow on Friday, 9th May, to play a stableford competition on the A and C nines, whilst the B nine is closed for substantial fairway renewals. The course was in top order and the greens were well paced. The day was very humid and the threat of a shower was ever present.
Throughout the field golfers were struggling to make an impact and eventually Sam McLellan returned a score of 28 which amazingly took third place. In second was John Chelo with 29 points and he ended the week in fine style with the group. The winner was Dave Plaiter with 31 points, helped in great part by his birdie two on C3.
When the golfers had all returned to the safety of the locker-room the inevitable happened and the heavens opened giving Khao Kheow the dousing it had threatened all day. Week over lads!

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 6 (week 11)

Division 1
Team	Played	Won	Lost	For	Agst	Diff.	Pts.
Phimai Geordie	11	11	0	123	42	81	33
San Snack Bar	11	9	2	104	61	43	29
Shoot Pool	10	8	2	86	64	22	26
Joy’s Paradise	11	7	4	85	80	5	25
Biggy’z Rest	11	6	5	92	73	19	23
Crazy Eddie’s	11	5	6	88	77	11	21
KiK Bar	11	4	7	77	88	-11	19
Connections	11	4	7	60	105	-45	19
Parrot Inn	10	3	7	58	92	-34	16
Buffalo Jack’s	9	3	6	62	73	-11	15
Mee Chew	11	2	9	72	93	-21	15
Rising Sun	11	2	9	53	112	-59	15
Results:  Joy’s Paradise 7 v 8 Shoot Pool, Biggy’z Rest 10 v 5 Crazy Eddie’s, KiK Bar 12 v 3 Connections, Buffalo Jack’s v Parrot Inn, Rising Sun 5 v 10 San Snack Bar, Mee Chew 6 v 9 Phimai Geordie

Scott secures top spot at Phoenix

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 7, Greenwood – Stableford
I personally had not been here for some time and found it interesting to visit and find out how it was progressing, especially as it is the ‘Low Season’. So, early in the morning at Bert’s we gathered and I realised it would be nice to get a lift as it is a long way. Whilst it never gets closer, we do get there a bit faster these days as the roads now permit a straighter travelling route. However it is still a long way to the course from the gate, we clocked it and it is 4.8km, a fair trip even when you think you are there.

Mashi Kaneta.
After arriving it was a quick book-in and out to the caddies, where we found we were to play the C & A Nines in that order. I am told that the B Nine is having extensive work done, especially on the greens and should be fine for the next High Season.
So to the course and not having played here for some time, I had a great day out. The fairways had grass on and the greens were fast and true. It is always difficult to talk of the rough here, because if you get in it, it can be anything from ‘rough’, to ‘really rough’, to ‘take a gun bearer with you’. The red ants are really tough also.

Max Scott & Bob Watson.
So a great day was had by all, not dampened by a downpour for several holes that brought a delay in the play. When we started again the ground was sodden, but the temperature had dropped and it was as good as it gets.
Back at Bert’s the results were announced and the winner with a fine 37 points was Mashi Kaneta ahead of Bob Watson and Mike Gaussa both on 35, with Bob talking second spot on count back. Completing the podium were Dick Warberg in fourth with 32 points Nigel Perry in fifth.
Near Pins: Mike Gaussa, Bob Watson, Brian Parrish
Friday, May 10, Phoenix – Stableford
There are some courses you play because they are great, and there are some you play because in this world financial drought they are a great deal, and then there are some you play because they are cheap and are better than stopping in bed. Now we get to Phoenix!

Andre Van Dyk.
I have played here for many years, but not of late. I go back to when the course first opened, and have seen its progression. Let me put it up front, essentially this is a good course with three really good nine-hole layouts. It is close to Pattaya and you can get there in no time. You can have a great time here. So why is it not played by more golfers (including me)?
Well, it is the same as being in Alcatraz. You arrive and they have boards all over the place there telling you what you cannot do. If you are blind there is obviously no problem!
And after finishing the round see how many players are in the restaurant, very few. This is very sad. What a great facility that to be brutally honest could do with someone to talk to the golfers and try to make them welcome. That is it, you do not feel as if you are as welcome as at some other venues.
Still on this day we slipped in and played - and the course was a pleasure to play, once you had made sure you had not infringed one of the rules. So it was a great day out overall.
Back at Bert’s were heard the results announced and discovered the Aussies had won everything, yes the whole lot including the near pins. From next week we will have 2 flights, Aussies and the rest.
The winner on the day was Max Scott with 38 points ahead of Bob Watson with 36. In third was Andre Van Dyk with 35 points and taking fourth was David Nicholson with 34. The only bright spot was that we are to lose an Aussie, however AVD did buy the beers all night as he is going back to home to Oz. But he can come back any time. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Bob Watson (2), Max Scott (2).

Another Browne bombshell

Phoenix Members Golf Society

Tuesday’s winners pose with staff at The Relax Bar.

Mike Gerrard
As was the same the previous week, we ended up with 9 players again on Friday, May 3, so it was three teams of three and a best two stableford scores added together to count from the three players.
The Ocean course has now been opened after some 6 to 7 weeks closure for maintenance work, so we decided to stay on the Mountain Lake course so as to give the Ocean a couple more weeks to get into playing condition. They always seem to open the courses too early and the greens especially are not up to good standard and speed.
So, we set off in very hot and humid conditions but with a nice breeze blowing. So much so that after a few holes the dreaded storm clouds started to gather. However, as in most times, they seem to skirt around the course and cling to the hills and mountains surrounding the course area. There was much lightning and thunder about, but all well away from our beloved fairways.
Our team of Clive Robinson, Kritinn Helgason and myself notched up a total of 73 points to win the team prize from the trio of Mukesh Thakker, Granville Swanton & Peter Harris with only 60 points, and the final group of Thierry Petrement, Thierry Temime & Gerrry Hughes managed only 57 points.
The winning score of 73 was quite low compared to other scores in previous weeks. With the soothsayer Clive Robinson proclaiming doom and gloom regarding the difficulty of the greens, we all had a good laugh, especially when we did three-putt.
The individual scores also indicated the difficulty of the course with Clive (the soothsayer) winning with 33 points and myself with 32 points claiming second place.
Near pins went to Kristinn Helgason & Thierry Petrement. 2 were not won and the prize for these went into the lucky draw. Winner of the massage donated by our hosts The Relax Bar was Mukesh Thakker and the free drink went to Peter Harris. This left 3 more lucky draw prizes to award and with only three more players left who had not won anything, everyone was a winner today.
On Tuesday, May 7 we did play the Ocean & Mountain combination - the Lake course now being closed. The Ocean course is most players’ favourite 9 holes here at Phoenix as every hole has its own distinctive character about it.
However, the work that has been done to the entrance to the club and around the Mountain 9th green and practice putting green has been carried out on the Ocean course as well. Many trees have been thinned out and lopped. It was amazing how much easier the nine holes appeared. I say appeared because every player today had a very good front nine on the Ocean course with a not so good back nine on the more difficult MOUNTAIN course.
The winner today (Patrick Browne) had the best evidence of this with 25 points on the front nine and only 17 on the back nine to total up to 42 points. Along with the first prize went the voucher for Ann’s Salon. This was greeted with great delight by everyone as we suggested that Patrick needed it!
In second place with only 39 points (also with a very good front nine) was Giorgio Baccioli. After a couple of years fighting to repair his injuries he finally seems the old Giorgio we knew so well. Third place went to the ever-smiling Granville Swanton who managed to play to his handicap and score 36 points. Fourth place went to John Bartley with 34 points. Seems his holiday worked to refresh him somewhat.
Again only two near pins were claimed today and they went to Granville Swanton and Mukesh Thakker. This meant more lucky draw prizes again and they were won by Bill Hewitt (free massage) Jim Neilson, Joris Goetschalckx (again), Gery Wedl & Richard Baldwin.
There are no major items to discuss regarding the new owners of Phoenix except to say that the course is now undergoing much tidying up and maintenance work. This can only mean a better future at phoenix. If you would like to join our society please call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565. We also organise monthly sea fishing trips.

Tewin teaches the guys a lesson

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
Well this week’s sports news has been dominated by the earth shattering reports that old beetroot nose Sir Alex Ferguson has decided to hang up his hair drier at Manchester United and head off into the sunset. Retirement of course comes to everybody eventually and I believe should be embraced and most of us retired golfers are doing our best to embrace all that Pattaya has to offer.

Tewin ‘Poopay’ Lamthong.

To my mind this week turned out to be even hotter than last week and the TRGG have decided to reduce the usual four outings a week down to three for the time being to allow everybody more recovery time from the oppressive heat.
The competition at Emerald on Monday 6th May was as fierce as the sun and resulted in the three leaders all finishing on the same score, 37 pts, and they were only separated after count back. My playing partner John Baxter continued his good form of the previous week and his back nine holes contained six pars which was good enough to take first place.
The Welsh Wizard Alun Webber (20) is back in town preparing for his retirement (?) and he successfully slipped into second place while the long time retired Fergus Brennan (12), who is working harder than ever, finished third.

Ted Senior.
On Wednesday 8th May it was a welcome return to Burapha (A and B courses) for the TRGG. Completely booked up during the high season it was at last possible to get a tee time to play this popular course and attracted the largest field of the week.
Tewin Poopay Lamthong (11) showed all the men a clean pair of heels, taking top spot on 36pts. Simon Tapster (17) finished in second place on 34pts and steady Teddy Senior (15) took third on 33.
Friday 10th May it was off to play Crystal Bay (C and A courses) for the few hardy souls who were still prepared to battle the extreme conditions. Ted Senior (15) proved to be the hardiest of the lot by shooting 35pts and taking first place on count back from that other acclimatized Aussie David Booth (14). Fergus Brennan (12) also proved the Irish are no shrinking violets by taking third place on 33pts.

Bristol boys bag the booty

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, May 6, Eastern Star - Stableford
A public holiday yet again today and we were at Eastern Star for an individual competition split into two divisions and combined with Friday’s results also for a 36-hole comp, with extra prizes on the second round courtesy of the rollover kitty.

Paul Hartley and Lindsay Phillips - pairs-multiplier winners at Emerald on Wednesday.
 

It was another extremely hot day as we teed off but after a few hole the coastal breeze came in and there was a slight cloud covering for the rest of the round, which surprised us all after the last week or so.
The keep it in the family Bristol boys took pole position in both divisions with the old man Bob Poole winning division 2 with 38 points ahead of the Cockney boy Rod Howett in second one point behind and Andy Oz was third with 32.
Bob’s son Jon, playing off 12, topped division 1 with 37 points while Duane Borgford came second on 34 and Ken Leadstone completed the podium on 30.
Near pins went to Duane Borgford, Mike Chatt, Paul Renall, Chris Reed and Iain Walsh.
There were no ‘2’s recorded in either division today.
Wednesday, May 8, The Emerald – Stableford & Pairs Multiplier
There were 11 teams out today in a pairs multiplier, with one person from division 1 (1-16) and one person from division 2 (17+), and an individual stableford competition as well.
After Monday’s 38 points it was a repeat performance by Bob Poole as he won division 2 with an identical score to finish ahead of Paul Hartley, just one point behind, and Chris Reed in third on 34 after he beat Kari Aarnio 19/18 on the back nine count back.
Lindsay Phillips’ 36 points won division 1, with Don Head second one point behind and Martin Grimoldby came third with 34.
Near pins were won by Martin Grimoldby, Lindsay Phillips, Jerry Sweetnam, Chris Voller, Kari Aarnio, Rod Howett, Colin James and Bob Poole.
In form today, Lindsay Phillips birdied the 15th hole to take a rollover ‘2’s pot in in division 1 and there were no ‘2’s again in the second division.
We had some extra near pin technical prizes today funded by the kitty and these were claimed by Jon Poole, Colin James, Allan Hansen, David Phillips, Don Head, Kari Aarnio, and Martin Grimoldby.
In the pairs multiplier, the winning score was 74 points for Lindsay Phillips and Paul Hartley who finished ahead of Martin Grimoldby and Chris Reed on 73, Don Head and Miss Nut came third with 68 and in fourth place on 64 were the Bristol boys of Bob and Jon Poole.
Friday, May 10, Eastern Star - Stableford
Today was another very hot day with a very slight breeze coming off the coast on only a few of the holes. There were 26 out today and 36 points was the best score, recorded by Iain Walsh, to win division 2 by seven points over second placed Rod Howett. In third place was Roger DeJongh with 27 points.
35 points was enough to win division 1 for Chris Voller and and now playing off 12, Jon Poole beat Don Head on an 18/14 count back for second after they both came in with 34 points.
Near pins went to Karl Flood, Don Head, Marty Rock, Steve Ironside, and Iain Walsh.
Just one ‘2’ today and it came in division 2 from Iain Walsh.
In the two-day competition carried over from Monday, Chris Voller came in fourth with 64, Rod Howett was third on 66, Iain Walsh second with 67, and the winner on 71 points was Jon Poole.

Players struggle in Treasure Hill deluge

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Brian Maddox & Paul Smith.

Tuesday, May 7, Treasure Hill - Stableford
Tuesday was our monthly trip up the 331 to visit Treasure Hill, where we played from the White tees at around 6,700 yards. The course was in good nick, however a big storm rolled through creating a bit of havoc for a while as greens were awash.
Sufficient numbers for 2 flights today, with the line being 0–16 & 17+. Paul Smith (3) was the best of the day with 35 points, followed in by Tom Murray (10) with 30 points, while Owen Walkley (9) got third spot with 29 points.
The higher flight group did not fare too well in the scores, with Brian Maddox (21) leading the way with 29 points, while Iain Painter (19) was next best at 27 points & Chris Gee (22) filling out the podium with 26.
Near pins were spread around between Tom, Chris & Mam.
Thursday, May 9, Pleasant Valley - Stableford
Thursday saw us visit Pleasant Valley, somewhat in preparation for those expecting to play the PSC Monthly the following Friday. The course was looking good, with fairways nicely grassed, however the greens are definitely on the long side, running slow & encouraging a lot of grain which results in them not rolling truly.
Scores were an improvement on Tuesday, with a count back required to separate 1st & 2nd, with Jeff Wylie (7) getting the nod over Clive Hoseason (20) 20/17, after both signed for 36 points. Third spot went to Colin Quinlan (9) with 35 points, after he edged Jonathan Pratt (15) 19/15 on count back.
Near pins went to Colin, Graham, Owen & Clive.
Note: Rendezvous Resort, Restaurant & Bar plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday, with the bar 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!

Pattaya hosts Asia’s largest golf familiarisation trip

Golf tour operators and caddies pose for a photo during the recent familiarisation trip.

Over 160 leading golf tour operators supported by 160 Thai caddies recently took part in the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) Cup hosted by Laem Chabang and Burapha Golf Clubs in Pattaya Thailand.
This event, part of the Asian Golf Tourism Convention 2013, was the largest number of golf tour operators ever to play together in one tournament in Asia.
The Eastern Seaboard Golf Management Association (EGA) hosted over 500 delegates from Asia, USA, the Middle East and Europe, at the 2013 Asian Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC), held in Pattaya over a period of seven days.
The AGTC was the biggest and most important golf tourism event held in Asia with golf resorts, golf courses, hotels, inbound operators and tourist boards here to do business with buyers. IAGTO members account for over 80% of all golfing holidays worldwide, and Thailand is the 5th fastest golfing destination in the world with over 1.5 million golf tourists in 2012.
Pattaya has now become a major golf destination hosting many international tournaments and attracting over 500,000 golfers in 2012. Several local courses already host major golf tournaments including the Thailand Golf Championship at Amata Springs, the Honda LPGA Thailand Open at Siam Country Club’s Old Course and the Pattaya Open at Burapha Golf Club.
Peter Walton, President for IAGTO was quoted as saying, “AGTC 2013 went beyond our expectations with the host destination of Pattaya putting on a series of spectacular functions, which augmented the 12 hours of tightly-scheduled business appointments. Our members held over 4,000 meetings between buyers and sellers during AGTC 2013.
“With over 20 courses in the region, Pattaya was an ideal selection to host AGTC this year. It underlined why it was selected as winner of the Golf Destination of the Year for Asia and Australasia in 2012. Delegates have had the chance to explore the area and see what it has got to offer besides doing business. Everyone was very impressed with the variety of clubs, the condition of the courses, the excellent hospitality and not forgetting those wonderful smiling Thai caddies.”
Pattaya Mayor, Ittipol Khunpluem, also commented: “During the convention we managed successfully to showcase our superb golf courses, and entertained all the delegates at numerous functions including gala dinners with traditional entertainment to fun beach parties. All government sectors including the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and EGA worked extremely hard to make sure everything ran smoothly, and I am confident AGTC 2013 will impact massively on the number of future golf vacationers in this region and Thailand as a whole.”
Mike Mesommonta, President of the EGA added, “Our members organized over 2,300 rounds of golf for the delegates during the convention. The tour operators were able to see for themselves some truly excellent courses designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Gary Player, Robert Trent Jones Jr and Nick Faldo. This whole event is a dream come true for Thailand as a golf destination. It has really put Thailand on the map.”
IAGTO Thailand now has over 85 member companies, making it the biggest and most representative trade organization for golf tourism in Thailand. Pattaya’s golf portal www.playpattaya.com provides full information on the region.

Inaugural AFG Golf Day a great success

Prize winners and team participants pose for a group photo following the Inaugural AFG Golf Day.

With 40 players and 10 teams, the inaugural Automotive Focus Group (AFG) Golf Day at the Pattana golf course even surprised the organizers with the depth of support for this event.
Not only was the event oversubscribed with enthusiastic golfers, most of whom were AFG members, but also the sponsorship purse far exceeded expectations, with companies such as Hemaraj Land and Development even offering 10,000 baht for a hole in one. The excellent level of sponsorship also meant that there was more money for the charity raffle.
Sponsors for the tournament includes CES (Kevin Fisher, shirts), Marriott (3D/2N JW Marriott), Hemaraj Land and Development (nearest pin and longest drive), Amari (brunches at Mantra), Cromwell Tools (power drill and golf bags), AB World Foods (“Curry for a Year”).
The best team score on the day came from the Triumph Motorcycles (Thailand) Ltd. quartet of Jamie Looker, Russ Daleman, David Mills and David Sutherland.
Runners-up were the team comprising Sean Goonan (AB World Foods Asia Ltd.), Brendan Daly (Amari Hotel), Richard Jackson (RLC Co. Ltd.) and Branislav Balaz (KONE Public Co. Ltd.)
The Longest Drive award went to Peter Hamilton (Nestle) and the Nearest the Pin prize to Bic Gohil from the Ford Thailand Manufacturing Assembly Plant (FTM).
The big winner in the charity raffle was Manita Boontham (CES) who won a 3-days/ 2-nights stay at the JW Marriott Kao Lak.

No Turkish delight for City

Bangkok Casuals Football League 2013

Paul Frain
Pattaya City FC traveled to play Anatolia in Bangkok last weekend, having already lost 2-1 to the Turkish team earlier in the season, so City were out for revenge.
The game started well for the visitors and they took an early one-nil lead when center-forward Nop turned on a sixpence after being fed by Vorontsov to blast the ball past the diving Anatolia keeper.
Nop soon after returned the favour to Vorontsov with a clever through-ball but the latter scuffed his shot with just the keeper to beat.
It proved to be a costly miss as Anatolia finally woke up and began to exert some pressure of their own. After their forward missed an open goal from eight yards out the warning signs were already there for City and it wasn’t long before the Turkish forward Freeboy ran through a static City defense to equalize and make it 1-1.
Against the run of play Vorontsov had a chance to restore City’s lead but was unlucky to see his shot strike the Anatolia woodwork and be cleared to safety.
The momentum was certainly with the home team by this stage and it was no surprise when they took the lead as Freeboy latched onto a wonderful defence splitting pass to lob the ball over the advancing City keeper. Things got worse for City soon after as Anatolia extended their advantage through Tatissons to be leading 3-1 at the interval.
The home team carried the momentum into the second half and put the City defense under almost constant pressure. City’s keeper pulled off a brilliant save to deny Freeboy his hat-trick but Anatolia continued pounding the City goal and eventually they got their reward when Dominik tapped home following some slick passing to make the score 4-1.
In the dying seconds of the match the home team were awarded a penalty kick after a City player handled the ball in his own area, but the Pattaya keeper pulled off a great save to keep the score at 4-1 to Anatolia at the final whistle.

Stuvik secures double F3 podium in Portugal

Sandy Stuvik (right) stands on the podium with Santiago Urritia (left) and Ed Jones.

After last Saturday’s 2nd place podium finish in the first race at the Portimao Circuit, Thai driver Sandy Stuvik started the Sunday morning qualifying session on a very positive note. However, just after Stuvik put on the his new tires for the fastest lap times, the session saw two cars coming together in a massive crash in one of the blind downhill sectors of the circuit and the session was red flagged.
On the restart, Stuvik again pushed hard, but could only manage a sixth place starting position for the afternoon race. The fastest car was that of Britain’s Hector Hurst, with a time of 1:40.453.
In race 2 Stuvik had a very good start and through the first few corners moved up 2 places to 4th, chasing after the lead trio of Hurst, Jones and Urrutia. By midway in the race both Urrutia and Stuvik managed to find their ways past Hurst and started the chase to catch up to Jones. In the process they would keep setting fastest laps while closing down on the leader. In fact Stuvik claimed the fastest lap of the race, as the two RP Motorsport cars closed the gap down to only 1 second. But in the end they ran out of laps and the race was won by UAE’s Ed Jones, with Uruguay’s Urrutia in second and Thailand’s Stuvik in third.

Stuvik steers his RP Motorsport F3 car to second place in Race 1 at the Portimao Circuit in Portugal, Saturday, May 11.

Sandy Stuvik claimed 2 podium finishes in Portugal and extended his championship to 72 points, a full 28 points in front of his team mate Santiago Urritia with 44 points.
Saturday’s race had seen the Thai racer qualify in P3, a mere 0.119 seconds behind pole sitter and team mate Alex Toril. The Spanish driver was again only a fraction ahead of the south-American superstar, Santiago Urritia. For Stuvik this was the first all dry race weekend in almost a year, as virtually all his resent racing events have been on wet circuits.
The subsequent race saw the trio of Uruguay’s Urritia, Spain’s Toril and Thailand’s Stuvik start to open a gap on the pursuing 28 Formula 3 cars. On the last lap of the race, Stuvik slipstreamed Toril down the Portimao main straight and at speed of 250 kph, managed to overtake the Spaniard and move into second. In the end the three RP Motorsport teammates finished in that order to lockout the podium. Stuvik again set the fastest lap of the race on the last lap.
The championship now moves on to Germany, where the 3rd round will be hosted at Nurburgring in another 2 weeks time from 1-2 June.
Stuvik, who had to miss one of his graduation exams to race in Portugal, commented after the race weekend: “The team did an awesome job of quickly getting both me and the car up to speed, even though we had to miss most of Thursday’s practice. A double podium and huge extension of my championship lead here in Portugal was much more then I had hoped for. I feel the Italian RP Motorsport Team and myself now are really starting to gel and they know how to make the car work really well for me. I am excited moving on towards the next circuit in Germany, which I know well and am hoping to be even more competitive at.”

Ji-Soo solo effort sees ‘Dolphins’ win at last

Pattaya United take on Suphanburi FC at the Suphanburi Municipality Stadium, Sunday, May 12. (Photo by Pattaya United/ Offside)

Pattaya United finally ended their disastrous eight-game losing streak with a surprise 2-1 victory at high-flying Suphanburi last Sunday evening.
It looked likely to be another long trip home for the Dolphins after the fell behind in the 30th minute of the game to a goal from the hosts’ Ivorian striker Bireme Diouf, but United hit back soon after the break when Suchon Sanuangdee equalized in the 49th minute and then against the run of play, Pattaya’s Korean forward Jung Ji-Soo went on a mazy dribble past three Suphanburi defenders before turning the ball past the keeper to score a late winner.
It was just United’s second win of the season but was enough to see them move out of the bottom three for the first time in over a month and hopefully gives the team a springboard to progress further up the table. United’s next game is a home match at the Nongprue Stadium this coming Saturday, May 18, against Bangkok Glass. Kick-off is at 6 p.m.
At the top of the table, Chonburi kept up the pressure on the leaders with a fine 2-1 away win at Chainat. The league is starting to take on a familiar shape at the top with Chonburi, Buriram and Muang Thong United looking like they will fight it out once again for the championship. Chonburi’s next game is this coming Sunday, at home to Sisaket.

Team	P	W	D	L	+/-	Pts.
Muang Thong United	10	8	1	1	12	25
Buriram United	9	7	2	0	15	23
Chonburi	10	7	2	1	10	23
TOT	10	5	3	2	2	18
BEC Tero Sasana	9	4	4	1	4	16
Suphanburi	10	4	4	2	4	16
Army United	9	4	2	3	9	14
Songkhla United	10	3	4	3	-5	13
Chainat	10	2	6	2	1	12
Bangkok Glass	10	3	2	5	-2	11
Ratchaburi	10	2	4	4	-3	10
Police United	9	2	4	3	-4	10
Osotspa	9	2	3	4	-6	9
Pattaya United	10	2	0	8	-12	6
Chiangrai United	9	0	5	4	-5	5
Samut Songkhram	9	0	5	4	-5	5
Bangkok United	10	1	2	7	-11	5
Sisaket	3	0	1	2	-4	1
Results:  Buriram United 4 - 1 Osotspa, Chainat 1 - 2 Chonburi, Muang Thong United 2 - 0 Police United, TOT 3 - 1 Bangkok United, Songkhla United 0 - 0 BEC Tero Sasana, Sisaket PSTP Army United, Suphanburi 1 - 2 Pattaya United, Bangkok Glass 1 - 0 Ratchaburi, Chiangrai United 0 - 0 Samut Songkhram.

Thailand Windsurfing Championships draw entrants from 8 countries

Competition winners pose for a photo with Pol. Maj. Gen. Attakrit Thareechat (standing center), the director of the Government Lottery Office.

Thanachot Anuwan
Competitors from eight countries took to the ocean for the Thailand Windsurfing Championships at Jomtien Beach last weekend.
Teens and adults from Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand battled it out May 10-12 in eight divisions, including Techno 293 for under-17 boys and girls.
Capt. Weerayuth Dissayasrin, president of the Royal Aeronautic Sports Association Of Thailand, presided over the opening ceremonies for the event, which was part of the month-long Air, Sea, Land Games.
Pattaya Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome said the competition was made possible through a 5 million baht donation from Government Lottery Office (GLO). It also was a key opportunity for windsurfers to tune up their skills before the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Myanmar in December.

Sailors compete at the 2013 Thailand Windsurfing Championships held at Jomtien Beach, Pattaya.

Barbarians defend Cup title at 2013 Pattaya Rugby Festival

Brendan Daly, General Manager of the Amari Orchid Resort Pattaya (center) presents the Cup to the captain of the Thai Barbarians (2nd left) at the conclusion of the 2013 Amari Orchid Pattaya Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament at Horseshoe Point, Sunday, May 5.

Report by Jim Howard / Photos by Harpic Bryant
The waiting was finally over for the 2013 Amari Orchid Pattaya Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament and we hoped that we had planned for every eventuality. Hot weather was forecast for the weekend of May 4-5 and all the signs were good.
The competing teams gathered at The Tavern by the Sea on Pattaya Beach Road for the registration on Friday night and were royally entertained by the Panthers advance guard and Brendan Daly, the General Manager of the Amari, who has become a very keen supporter of local rugby.

The 2-day tournament provided a feast of top class rugby.

Saturday dawned bright and sunny and the upgraded facilities at Horseshoe Point were in perfect condition, tents had been erected around the playing area creating an amphitheatre like atmosphere ready for the battles that were to come. The facilities around the ground were ready to cater to the expected hordes of players and spectators alike and there was even a children’s area complete with bouncy castle to keep the little ones occupied whilst mummy and daddy enjoyed the rugby.
The facilities provided by the Amari and Horseshoe Point were further supplemented by The British Pies provided by the famous Pieman from Kao Lak, Steve Mines. We were also delighted to have obtained the services of Jon Prichard, “The voice of rugby in Thailand”, who we were sure would add to the enjoyment of the weekend with his adroit commentary on the happenings both on and off the field.
16 rugby teams from all over Thailand and other parts of the world had arrived in Pattaya to contest what has become one of the principal 10-a-side tournaments in the region. There were many familiar faces returning to try and capture some of the silverware and a very welcome appearance from some new clubs - proof that rugby is gaining in popularity in the Kingdom. It was particularly pleasing to see two completely new teams that were graduates from our youth tournament, Elephant Brutal and the Nawamin Old Boys along with Bargunchong, which is a club developing from Bangkok University graduates.
As usual we had received good support from Hong Kong, as we also welcomed The Hong Kong Scottish who have devolved from another famous touring team from Hong Kong the Nomads, whilst The Valley Barbarians were once again to the fore, led by the indomitable Boris. An eclectic bunch from various backgrounds united in their love of the game and their quest for the Chris Kays Cup.
Proceedings were to be controlled by Davis Viccars and his band of merry referees, which this year created a first in fielding a lady referee from Cambodia, Ms. Sophoan Peou, who was soon exerting her authority and performed admirably in the heat.

A smiling skipper from the Bangkok Japanese (2nd left) collects the tournament Plate.

There were 8 all-Thai teams lining up in the draw with several Thai national players in their ranks and of course many Thai players in the other squads. The Thai National team had just completed participating in the HSBC Asian 5 Nations tournament and so they were very fit and raring to go.
The Thai Barbarians, last year’s champions, had a very strong squad and were favoured to go all the way again. Some of the new Thai teams were relatively unknown quantities but all were expected to give their more well-known cousins a run for their money.

Amari Orchid General Manager, Brendan Daly (center), presents the Bowl to the Mosquitoes.

As usual there was strong representation from the expatriate teams in Bangkok; The Southerners were favourites from this group as they had found a group of new talent and those wary old campaigners the Bangkok Bangers had also found some young Bangers and they were expected to be in and around at the final showdown under the leadership of “Mr. Almost Happy”. Perennial crowd favourites the Bangkok Japanese have also found some new blood and they were expected to make a strong showing.

Nawamin Old Boys were the winners of the Shield.

We also welcomed back The Chiang Mai Suas, who have undergone a recent revival and were hoping to go one better than their previous best performance of being losing Cup finalists. There was also a welcome return from the Thai military with a team from the Armed Forces Preparatory Academy in Nakorn Nayok entering. The field was rounded out with the hosts Pattaya Panthers, who felt that at full strength they also stood a good chance of getting amongst the trophies.
This year saw a changing of the guard as Mark Coombs stepped in as Tournament Director and new arrival to Pattaya, Jeff Powers, was shanghaied into the post of statistician on Friday night in the Tavern. Then a messiah in the massive shape of Peter “Stitch” Hutton appeared with his custom-designed tournament management software programme and so for the first time in it’s history the Pattaya 10’s was Macoocooed!
The teams were divided into 4 groups and Saturday’s games were played in a round-robin format to determine the ranking for the various knockout tournaments. In the rather warm conditions hard and fast running rugby was the order of the day for the Thais and rucking and mauling for the larger and more mature foreign players.
Most games went to form as expected and there were strong performances from all of the Thai teams, especially the Thai legends and the Chiang Mai “Suas” who both won all of their group games without anybody scoring against them.
The Thai Barbarians and the Southerners were the other group winners and both lost only one score against. The host team stunned everybody, including themselves, by playing out of their skins and actually finished second in their group with 2 victories, losing only to the Thai Barbarians and thus qualifying for the Cup competition. Elephant Brutal Surin, Bangkok Bangers and the Bangkok Japanese made up the quarter final lineup for the Cup competition.
The Thai Mosquitoes and the Hong Kong Scottish led the way into the Plate competition while the participants in the Bowl and Shield would only be decided after later rounds.
Following the departure of the mature rugby players it was the turn of the youth, this year’s tournament was for the under-16’s age group, and was sponsored by the Kingdom Property Group. It was very gratifying to see the return of many of the boys who had played last year at under-15’s and the improvement in their fitness and technique was a delight to see.
It was also a special moment for the host club as there was a Pattaya youth side appearing after a number of years absence. The Pattaya Rams, basically formed from students at Regents School, were playing in their first ever tournament and a number of the boys were actually playing the game for the first time. They played very creditably and easily beat their much more illustrious rivals the Bangkok Lions.
Sunday dawned and after the youngsters had shown their paces and produced some outstanding rugby it was on to the main tournament. Many teams had obviously taken large quantities of the local soothing balms the previous night and looked much the worse for wear. Amazingly The Panthers, who had surpassed all expectations in qualifying for the Cup, were there early and with a full complement of fit players!
Tired limbs were anointed and strapped and the knockout phase commenced with few complaints and the quest for Cup, Plate, Bowl and Shield got under way. Many first time losers were surprised to find that they had to play more games than if they had won as the trickle down system took effect. Again there were some superb performances and some very close encounters with not a few surprises.
The Thai Barbarians led the way into the Cup semi finals, with Chiang Mai Suas, Southerners and the Thai Legends filling the other spots. In the Plate we saw some fine performances from the Bangkok Japanese, who beat the hosts in a very tight game, whilst newcomers Bargunchong accounted for the Bangkok Bangers and Elephant Brutal Surin surprisingly beat a favoured Mosquitoes team and sent them to the Bowl.
Hong Kong Scottish were making good progress in the Bowl whilst the Taverners and Valley Barbarians were beginning to experience the effects of their exertions and as the Valley Barbarians had booked an early flight they accepted early elimination, which meant that the Shield final would be contested between two of the newcomers to the Pattaya 10’s - Nawamin Old Boys and the Bangpoo RFC.
The Shield Final was an exciting affair as the teams gave their all in pursuit of their first trophy and it was decided in the end by the greater experience of the Nawamin Old Boys as they ran out comfortable winners 14-7.
The competition for the Bowl was by contrast a bagful of surprises. Bangkok Bangers had beaten the Taverners to reach the semi final and then had an epic battle against the Mosquitoes and despite an exceptional effort the age barrier finally told and the younger and fitter Mosquitoes finally prevailed 22-5 to progress to the final against the Hong Kong Scottish, who had accounted for the young Armed Forces Preparatory Academy 14-7 in their semi final. In a hotly contested final, the Mosquitoes finally prevailed 21-5 as they seemed to have more left in the tank.
In the Plate it promised to be just as exciting and hard fought as several of the favourites had failed to fulfill their promise to make the Cup and it was hoped that the hosts, who had dropped down from the Cup would be able to reproduce their form of the previous day and finally get among the silverware. It did look like a home victory could be possible but the Panthers imploded on the final day and ended up empty handed. The hosts lost a very tight semi final to our old friends the Bangkok Japanese whilst one of the surprise teams of the tournament newcomers Bargunchong accounted for a strong Elephant Brutal team who were attempting to win the Plate after 2 successes in the Bowl.
The final was a bit of an anti-climax as the new look Japanese side took control and eventually ran out fairly comfortable winners 21-5. The Bangkok Japanese victory was a very popular one as they have been trying so hard for so many years and finally they have got their hands on some silverware.
So the stage was set for the Cup final between the reigning champions Thai Barbarians and The Thai Legends, who were former champions and probably the greatest rivals of the Barbarians. It was an absolutely cracking final in which no quarter was given. The Thai boys displayed total commitment, great handling, it was very tight end to end rugby with some great running and handling and some fearsome tackling in defence.
At full time the score was tied with both sides having scored a converted try. For the first time in the history of the tournament the final went into extra time and the first score would be the winner. After a further 3 minutes of absolutely nail biting stuff the Baa Baas winger was put away and there was no way that he was going to be caught and denied that “golden score”. The Thai Barbarians had eventually triumphed and retained their title in style, winning a hotly contested final in extra time 12-7.
After the final whistle everybody crashed into the pool and the presentations were made to all trophy winners by Brendan Daly, the General Manager of the Amari Orchid Resort Pattaya. Jim Howard, the Chaiman of the Pattaya Panthers, then presented the prestigious Chris Kays Award, for the person contributing most to the tournament on and off the field, to the Valley Barbarians Boris Niethammer, who was too ill (from over indulgence?) to receive his award. The player of the tournament was Khun Nay from the Mosquitoes.
A vote of thanks is due to all the organizers supporters and sponsors without whom a tournament like this could not happen. Amari Orchid Resort once again made a great difference and Kingdom Property, the sponsors of the youth tournament, Cranes and Equipment Asia Ltd., AusGroup Corporation, Construction Cost Consultants, Jardine Shipping, Hemaraj Land, Societe Generale de Surviellance, Lord Edward Devereux, Icebreaker, Outrigger Hotels and Phoenix Pacific Inc.
Also a big vote of thanks to Contract Resources Asia, who provided all the shade and Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for the first aid and medical attention, of course Horseshoe Point for providing a perfect venue and Mr. and Mrs Rock and Roll, who again provided the sounds and music without understanding what those crazy guys were doing on that pitch.
A mention should also be made of the girls and boys from the Regents School Gap Students, who provided the ball persons and scorers for the weekend, they did an amazing job and the referees with Commissar David Viccars back in command kept the games running smoothly with his team of Thai and foreign referees. Thanks also to Tournament Director Mark Coombs, Statistician Jeff Powers and IT guru Peter “Stitch” Hutton, (please check the website www.macoocoo.com for all the results from the tournament).
Finally we would like to thank all of the supporters and spectators that made the trek out to Horseshoe Point. We hope that you enjoyed it and that you will come back next year!

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Khao Noi Sports Bar Thursday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

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Barbarians defend Cup title at 2013 Pattaya Rugby Festival