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Mabprachan Pool Team Knock-Out

Results & Standings May 16 (week 4)

Team Pts. For Against Diff.
Smarty’s 10 31 17 14
Barking Frog 8 29 14 15
Outback 8 26 22 4
Pats Bar 7 25 23 2
Ice Bar  6 25 23 2
Panita’s 5 23 25 -2
Brasshouse 5 19 24 -5
Lucky Bar 3 19 24 -5
Mulligans 1 18 30 -12
Sweet Dream 0 15 28 -13
Results:  Smarty’s 8 v 4 Panita’s, Pats Bar 6 v 6 Ice Bar, Brasshouse 7 v 5 Mulligans, Outback 7 v 5 Sweet Dreams, Lucky Bar 2 v 10 Barking Frog


Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 13 (week 14)

Division 1
Team P W L +/- BP Pts.
Shoot Pool 14 13 1 65 0 39
Irish Rovers 12 8 4 23 0 24
Legends Pool 11 7 4 2 1 22
The Butchers Arms 12 6 6 4 1 19
Links Bar 11 6 5 3 1 19
Sweethearts Bar 12 5 7 -12 1 16
Pook’s Bar 14 5 9 -25 1 16
Nicky’s Bar 12 5 7 -16 0 15
Biggy’z Rest 12 4 8 -15 2 14
Dean’s Bar 14 3 11 -29 1 10
Results:  Biggy’z Rest 5 v 10 Links Bar, Dean’s Bar 8 v 10 Nicky’s Bar, Legends Pool 10 v 9 Pook’s Bar, Shoot Pool 10 v 3 Sweethearts Bar, Irish Rovers 10 v 6 The Butchers Arms
Division 2
Team P W L +/- BP Pts.
Caddyshack 14 11 3 22 0 33
Smile Bar 13 9 4 23 1 28
Easy R-con Bar 13 9 4 23 0 27
Cheers Bar 11 9 2 16 0 27
Wet Bar 12 7 5 -2 1 22
Eor’s Bar 13 6 7 -12 1 19
Offshore Bar 13 5 8 -19 1 16
Mai’s Bar 10 5 5 -3 0 15
Rabbi’s Elephant 12 1 11 -48 0 3
Results:  Cheers Bar 10 v 4 Rabbi’s Elephant, Easy R-Con Bar 10 v 8 Offshore Bar, Eor’s Bar 4 v 10 Mai’s Bar, (Bye) L v W Smile Bar, Wet Bar 9 v 10 The Caddyshack


Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Results & Standings May 17 (week 17)

Team P W L B/L +/- Pts
Taffy’s Bar ‘A’ 15 15 0 12 87 30
Dang’s Bar 13 10 3 10 43 20
Legends Darts 13 9 4 8 21 18
Load Out Bar 16 6 10 8 -36 12
Jantha Coffee House 16 5 11 7 -30 10
Bye 17 0 17 0 -85 0
Results:  Dang’s Bar W v L (Bye, Taffy’s Bar ‘A’ (9-1)-(0-0) v Jantha Coffee


Khao Noi Sports Bar Thursday Darts League

Results & Standings May 16 (week 10)

Team P W L B/L  +/- Pts.
Taffy’s 10 10 0 7 48 20
Khao Noi Sports Bar 10 6 4 5 14 12
PJ’s Pub ‘A’ 10 6 4 3 8 12
C.S. Coffee 10 5 5 9 2 10
PJ’s Pub ‘B’ 10 3 7 4 -22 6
Bye 10 0 10 0 -50 0
Results:  (Bye) L v W Taffy’s, (Bye) L v W Khao Noi Sports Bar, Khao Noi Sports Bar (0-0)-(9-1) v Taffy’s, PJ’s Pub ‘A’ (5-0)-(4-1) v PJ’s Pub ‘B’


The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Results & Standings May 13 (week 11)

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 11 5 6 5 3 10
Load Out Bar 8 4 4 4 -8 8
Jantha Coffee House 9 2 7 1 -37 4
Irish Rovers 9 1 8 3 -33 2
Results:  Double Top Bar (5-0)-(4-1) v Irish Rovers


Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 15 (week 3)

Team P W L Diff. Pts.
Legends Darts 3 3 0 23 6
W. Tankies 3 3 0 11 6
Mee Chew Sports Bar 3 2 1 11 4
Yates Bar 3 2 1 -1 4
Scandalic 3 1 2 -5 2
Irish Rovers 3 1 2 -7 2
Mai’s Bar 3 0 3 -15 0
Jantha Coffee House 3 0 3 -17 0
Results:  Legends Darts (9-1)-(0-0) v Irish Rovers, Scandalic (7-1)-(2-0) v Jantha Coffee House, W. Tankies (7-1)-(2-0) v Mee Chew Sports Bar, Yates Bar (7-1)-(2-0) v Mai’s Bar


British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings May 17 (week 10)

Division 1
Team P W L +/- BP Pts
Shoot Pool 9 8 1 32 0 24
Links Bar 7 5 2 6 1 16
Pook’s Bar 8 5 3 8 0 15
The Butchers Arms 7 4 3 4 1 13
Biggyz Rest ‘A’ 8 3 5 -15 1 10
Mata Bar 8 3 5 -8 0 9
Sweethearts Bar 5 2 3 1 2 8
Nicky’s Bar 8 2 6 -14 0 6
Legends Pool 6 1 5 -14 1 4
Results:  Legends Pool 7 v 10 Shoot Pool, Mata Bar 5 v 10 The Butchers Arms, Pook’s Bar W v L (Bye)
Division 2
Team P W L +/- BP Pts
Old Thai Angle 9 6 3 18 0 18
Offshore Bar 9 6 3 16 0 18
Easy R-Con Bar 8 5 3 10 1 16
Irish Rovers 10 5 5 -11 1 16
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 8 1 7 -17 3 6
Results:  Dean’s Bar W v L (Bye), Mai’s Bar 3 v 10 Irish Rovers, Offshore Bar 8 v 10 Old Thai Angle
Division 3
Team P W L +/- BP Pts
Smile Bar 10 10 0 49 0 30
Biggy’z Rest ‘B’ 8 7 1 19 0 21
Wet Bar 10 5 5 -7 1 16
Rabbi’s Elephant 10 5 5 -10 0 15
The QueenVic 8 4 4 -4 1 13
The Ranch 7 4 3 -1 0 12
Buffalo Jacks 9 4 5 -6 0 12
Connections 10 2 8 -40 0 6
Results:  Biggy’z Rest ‘B’ W v L (Bye), Buffalo Jacks W v L (Bye), Connections 1 v 10 Smile Bar, Rabbi’s Elephant 10 v 2 Wet Bar


Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 13 (week 12)

Division 1
Team Played Won Lost For Agst Diff. Pts.
Phimai Geordie 12 11 1 127 53 74 34
San Snack Bar 11 9 2 104 61 43 29
Shoot Pool 11 9 2 97 68 29 29
Biggy’z Rest 12 7 5 101 79 22 26
Joy’s Paradise 12 7 5 91 89 2 26
Crazy Eddie’s 12 5 7 91 89 2 22
KiK Bar 12 5 7 89 91 -2 22
Connections 12 4 8 64 116 -52 20
Buffalo Jack’s 10 4 6 73 77 -4 18
Rising Sun 12 3 9 63 117 -54 18
Parrot Inn 11 3 8 63 102 -39 17
Mee Chew 11 2 9 72 93 -21 15
Results:  Shoot Pool 11 v 4 Phimai Geordie, Mee Chew P v P San Snack Bar, Rising Sun 10 v 5 Parrot Inn, Buffalo Jack’s 11 v 4 Connections, KiK Bar 12 v 3 Crazy Eddie’s, Biggy’z Rest 9 v 6 Joy’s Paradise


‘The Rajah’ is awarded the Medal

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, May 12, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A Flight

1st Chaten Patel (13) net 68
2nd Paul Hack (13) net 69
3rd Mark Wood (8) net 70
B Flight
1st Mick Beresford (18) net 69
2nd John Deardon (22) net 69
3rd Jim Bell (16) net 71
Near Pins: No 4 Steve Newman, No 9 Mark Wood, No 12 Terry Mangan, No 16 Lou Szigligeti.
Monthly medal winner Chaten Patel (right) shares a drop of the good stuff with Colin Davis.

Chaten ‘the Rajah’ Patel is recognized as a player who can shoot as well as he wants and that potential was realized again on Sunday with a monthly medal winning net 68 off a 13 handicap. Chaten received a bottle of Jameson’s Irish whiskey, a lead crystal engraved whiskey glass, an invitation to play in the year end gold comp, and of course his name will be etched on the Lewiinski’s wall of shame for May 2013.
Chaten was one stroke better than his A Flight playing mate Aussie Paul Hack, and the B Flight pair of Mickey ‘nine holes’ Beresford and John ‘the bar steward’ Deardon; the count back result falling in Mickey’s favour. The B Flight bronze went to a three-way count back between the Aussie pair Jimmy ‘AK-47’ Bell and fellow compatriot Lou Zigzag, with Freddy Star Trek making up the trio as Jimmy got the nod.
Aberdeen’s man on fire Mark Wood filled the remaining senior flight bronze spot.
Terry Mangan, Claude Harder, Mick Mathee and Colin Davis shared the 2’s pot.
Tuesday, May 14, Khao Kheow A&C - Stableford
A Flight

1st Paul Hack (13) 37pts
2nd Peter Hynard (13) 34pts
3rd Terry Mangan (23) 33pts
B Flight
1st Christy Knight (23) 32pts
2nd Lou Szigligeti (18) 32pts
3rd Jim Elphick (26) 29pts
Man of the match Aussie Paul Hack was showing signs of coming into form this day with an excellent 37 points. Paul was the only man to better his handicap and his fine effort was three strokes clear of Peter ‘fluent in Thai ‘Hynard and a further stroke clear of one of our dearest friends from the old sod (and we have many) Terry ‘pork chop’ Mangan and Monsieur Thierry Petrement, the luck of the Irish prevailed in the following count back.
Irishman Christy ‘good’ Knight topped out B Flight as he had the count back better of “the pied piper of Oz” Lou Zig Zag. Jim Elphick was the only one left with lucre in his pocket as he had the count back better over Jim ‘just call me lonesome’ Reid, Thierry Danzas and the Co. Kilkenny man Tom Gorey.
Paul Hack and Thierry Petrement split the 2’s pot.
Wednesday, May 15, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight

1st Thierry Petrement (10) 37pts
2nd Chaten Patel (13) 35pts
3rd Tore Eliassen (15) 34pts
B Flight
1st Charles Cunningham (19) 38pts
2nd Lew Szigligeti (18) 36pts
3rd Colm O’Donovan (19) 32pts
A perennial favourite Bangpra was the site of Wednesdays outing. B Flight’s Charles Cunningham was man of the match as he made his 38 points stand up for victory. Lou ‘the pied piper of Oz’ Zig Zag took the silver with a solid even to par round as Colm O’Donovan closed the flight with 32 points.
In A Flight the action was equally fierce as Mr. Nice Guy monsieur Thierry Petrement stood atop the podium with a solid 37 pts. Moving on to the balance of A Flight we found the title guy Chaten ‘the Rajah’ Patel gripping the silver. A trio of players were in a tangle for the remaining flight spot and the happiest was Tore Eliassen, while the Irish pair of Pat Regan and Terry Power were neither happy nor sad, they simply had another drop of the black stuff.
Chaten Patel, Terry Power and JP Maffray shared the 2’s pot.
Note: Freddy Starbeck will be holding his 43rd birthday bash from the Ferdinand Bar on Soi Diana at the Royal Thai Navy Plutaluang G.C. on the 26th of June. Entrance fee is 1.200 Baht which includes free T-shirt, goodie bag, a chance to win a new motor bike, near pins and near to the box prizes, wine and buffet sponsored by Lewiinski’s. The field is restricted to 36 players only entry closes 19th June. If interested, give Colin a call on 0898260764.
Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Colin on the above number. Transport is provided.


Graham top scores for the week

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Monday, May 13,Royal Lakeside – Stableford
A quick phone call was necessary before leaving The Ranch, when we discovered that today was designated as an official holiday for Royal Ploughing Day (not on the PSC calendar). Fortunately the course confirmed our normal price was O.K., although we did receive reports later, that some local courses seized the opportunity to charge weekend rates.

Tom Jones - back on the tee after a 3 month layoff.

The traffic on the Chonburi by-pass was light and we arrived at the course on time and were able to tee off with an empty course ahead of us. Unfortunately the course wasn’t at its best as all the greens had been recently cored and sanded, so bumpy putts were the order of the day.
A thunder storm threatened early in the round but fortunately never reached the course, and the weather conditions were very pleasant throughout the round. Tore Eliassen was suffering a little from the heat, but didn’t let it distract him from his mission, and he came home in first place one point ahead of Geoff Parker. Tony Robbins snatched third place from the resurgent Reg Smart, on a countback after both players finished on 32 points.
1st Tore Eliassen (15) 34pts
2nd Geoff Parker (15) 33pts
3rd Tony Robbins (14) 32pts
Near Pins: Tore Eliassen, John Graham and Reg Smart.
Wednesday, May 15,Bangpra – Stableford
A good turnout today for our visit to the always popular Bangpra course, which is currently in great condition, and is surely one of the most naturally beautiful courses in the area.
The friendly starter urged our three groups to dash off the first tee in order to get away before another local society, who were scheduled behind us, but had arrived early. Unfortunately the haste off the first tee didn’t last long as we found we were behind one of the slowest four-balls it has been our misfortune to encounter. The group was oblivious to the fact that they were steadily losing holes behind the group in front of them, and even our requests to the marshal were ineffective in trying to speed them up.
The slow pace of play combined with the hot weather ground a few players down as we were forced to wait on virtually every shot. Geoff Parker survived an early set back on the third hole, where he played the wrong ball hence incurring a two stroke penalty, and eventually triumphed over playing partner William Macey, sinking a great putt on the 18th green to win by a single point.
We welcomed back Tom Jones today following medical treatment in the U.K., but unfortunately he wasn’t able to make a winning start after his three month layoff – but good to see you back on the course Tom.
1st Geoff Parker (15) 34pts
2nd William Macey (19) 33pts
3rd Ken Davidson (24) 31pts
Near Pins: Steve Durey, Tony Robbins and William Macey.
Friday, May 17,Plutuluang E&S – Stableford
We decided over breakfast at The Ranch that we’d prefer to play the West and North courses today, but when we arrived at the course there was a Navy tournament being held on those nines so we headed off to the East course instead. The course was generally in good shape, although the bunkers have been somewhat neglected, and the greens were running at their normal slow pace.
Once again it was a slow round as we were out behind a six-ball, but the weather was fine with the hint of a breeze coming from the sea, providing a welcome relief from the heat over the last few weeks.
John Graham had another good day, scoring 22 points on the front nine, and coming home 5 points clear of Neil Griffin in second place. Ken Davidson, playing his last game before returning to U.K., took third place, beating Geoff Cox on a count back.
Neil Griffin took two of the near pin prizes and is fast making a reputation as a par three specialist, bringing his total to 4 in his last 3 games (sometimes even without using his driver!)
1st John Graham (12) 38pts
2nd Neil Griffin (23) 33pts
3rd Ken Davidson (24) 32pts
Near Pins: Ken Davidson and Neil Griffin (2).
Note: The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf society, who now play out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya 3rd Road (in front of the fire station, and almost opposite the Buffalo Bar). We play three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, so if you enjoy a fun day out, and a friendly but competitive golf competition why not come and join us.
We meet at The Ranch at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new players are always welcome. Contact “Buff” on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663 for all enquiries. You can find all the news, schedules and results on our website at www.bunkersociety.com


Joe & Nuan find the winning formula

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Bob Lindborg presents the winning pairs trophy to Joe Mooneyham, with the runners up Mark Riggall (left) and Scotty Qua (right).

Monday, May 13, Burapha – Pairs Better-Ball
From Jack’s birthday 2-man scramble last Monday, to Bob Lindborg’s birthday better ball pairs this week at Burapha. An excellent turnout of 40 players (20 teams) for this popular format but the condition of the C & D nine’s greens was very disappointing, however it was a good day out and the complaints about them (the greens) were minimal.
There were some fantastic scores returned with more than half the teams scoring 40 points or more, with the winners for day, Joe Mooneyham playing with Nuan, a Burapha caddie, taking the top spot with 46pts. Nuan, playing off a handicap of 14, was one of two Burapha caddies playing, the other one being Rak, who played with the Birthday Boy himself, Bob Lindborg.
Scotty Qua and Mark Riggall came in second on 45pts, with Colin Jones and Ken Davidson beating John O’Keefe & Mark Kembrey on count back, both with 44.

Ken Davidson.

After the presentation back at the Outback, Bob sponsored the food for all the participants as well as sponsoring four near pins, which were won by Greg Hill, Clem Nottle, John O’Keefe & Steve Milne.
There were six ‘2’s from Mark Riggall, Steve Milne, Ivan Plunkett, John O’Keefe and Clem Nottle had two.
1st Joe Mooneyham & Nuan 46pts
2nd Scotty Qua & Mark Riggall 45pts
3rd Colin Jones &Ken Davidson 44pts
4th John O’Keefe &Mark Kembrey 44pts
5th Tim Knight & John Player 43pts
6th Frank Nottle &Clem Nottle 43pts
Tuesday, May 14, Laem Chabang – Stableford
We have one more week here at Laem Chabang before normal service is resumed, with Khao Kheow returning to its Tuesday slot and Siam Plantation returning to its Wednesday slot.
Today, there were 11 players, to play the C & B loops from the white tees. Nobody managed to beat their handicap and the best score of the day was 35pts, scored by Ken Davidson, who was having his last round with us before returning home, before coming back later in the year.
We also said goodbye to the boys from Cooroy Golf Club, Queensland, who have been with us for the last week or so, led by Russ Rylance. Kissy Buchanan, took second place with 33pts beating the day’s organiser, Tim Knight on count back.
There were two ‘2’s from Ken Davidson and Russ Rylance, both on B8.
1st Ken Davidson (24) 35pts
2nd Keith Buchanan (15) 33pts
3rd Tim Knight (21) 33pts
Wednesday, May 15, Khao Kheow - Stableford
11 players up at Khao Kheow today to play the A & C loops, as the B loop remains closed for course improvements.
Suzi organised the day on behalf of the Outback but found herself demoted to third place as the two shot rule here at Khao Kheow kicked in; she lost two shots off her handicap as the red tees are rated considerably easier than the yellows (68.0 compared with 70.4). Nevertheless, she did enough to secure third place on a favourite course, scoring 34pts off 17 and she got the only ‘2’.
Second place was occupied by John O’Keefe securing a good score round here of 36, with the win going to Barry Copestake with a fine 39pts.

Greg Hill, Sel Wegner and John Player.

1st Barry Copestake (15) 39pts
2nd John O’Keefe (16) 36pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (17) 34pts
Friday, May 17, Green Valley – Stableford
Less players than usual here at Green Valley this week with only 20 Outbackers playing in two divisions; most probably as a result of the absence of tour groups just at the moment and the monthly event at Pleasant Valley being hosted by the PSC.
Jack Butler displayed a welcome return to form with the day’s top score of 41pts to win Div A from Greg Hill (38), Sel Wegner (36) & John Player (35) and Jimmy Little likewise, with his 37pts being enough to take Div B. Jimmy came out of the traps firing on all cylinders to amass 22pts on the front nine before losing his way a ‘little’ on the back nine.
Tim Knight, who organised the day on behalf of the Outback, was second with 34, beating Rob Earle (33) and Suzi on 32.
There were no ‘2’s.
Div A (0-18)
1st Jack Butler (13) 41pts
2nd Greg Hill (18) 38pts
3rd Sel Wegner (12) 36pts
4th John Player (17) 35pts
Div B (19+)
1st Jimmy Little (20) 37pts
2nd Tim Knight (21) 34pts
3rd Rob Earle (23) 33pts
4th Suzi Lawton (19) 32pts
Saturday, May 19,St. Andrews – Stableford
A Saturday bonus this week as the 8 players were shifted across to St. Andrews. Murray Hart made the most of the small field to comfortably take the win with 32pts, picking up 600 ‘Race2Bkk’ points along the way. Bob St. Aubin was second with 29, beating Lee Grace (welcome back mate) on count back.
Welcome also to Eric, whose full name we didn’t get and was having his first knock with the Outback. Eric came along with Greg Hirst and good to see you out there playing at last Greg, as we know you’re working hard in the week.
There were no ‘2’s
1st Murray Hart (13) 32pts
2nd Bob St. Aubin (13) 29pts
3rd Lee Grace (13) 29pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.


Mike Newbert is here to stay

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Steve Ellison
Monday, May 13, St. Andrews 2000 (white tees) – Stableford -.
1st Mike Newbert (11) 41pts
2nd Kevin Moraghan (15) 38pts
3rd Peter Rogers (20) 36pts
4th Nigel Flanagan (13) 36pts
Raves about the fairways and a big disappointment with the greens were the comments coming off the 18th green as we finished our round at the wonderful and magical St. Andrews 2000. All the greens we faced today were verticut, so if you play here in the next few weeks then be warned.

Mike ‘Cheese Steak’ Newbert

I am sure after that the course will be in spectacular condition by next week so enjoy this course over the low season sports days and play one of the absolute best golf courses in Pattaya. We will be back here on Wednesday the 19th of June so send us an email to get you signed up for a great day of golf.
Rayong Green Valley is our usual Monday golf destination, so for us to play St. Andrews for a holiday rate of 2,200 baht was a treat. This Desmond Muirhead course is certainly one of the best that Pattaya has to offer and is a favourite with the locals.
“The rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated,” as the great American author and humorist Mark Twain once said. “The rumors of my departure are completely untrue!” as Mike Newbert reported to me last week. I had received some misinformation and wrote that Mike was off back to the States, when in fact he is now here full time and is with us for the foreseeable future. Sorry Mike! Anyway, Newbert once again proved he is The Montauk Mauler and swept to victory for another notch on his holster with a terrific 41 points.

Kevin Morgahan, Mike Newbert and Peter Rogers après golf.

It was good to see our old pal Kevin Moraghan recovering from a blow from Cupid’s bow to post a strong 38 points at St. Andrews, a course that can eat you alive sometimes. Peter Rogers was back on track with a 36 and joined by “Mr. Plaids and Stripes” Nigel Flanagan, looking rather dapper in his best Nike clobber. Sure beats Afghanistan!
Wednesday, may 15, Bangpra (white tees) - Stableford
1st Mike Newbert (11) 38pts
2nd Ken Aihara (4) 34pts
3rd Rob Hunt (21) 32pts
A short week for scheduled golf as the PSC Monthly was taking place on Friday the 17th. Today we had the very popular Bangpra on our schedule and it was certainly looking good. No surprise that everyone suffered from several multi-putt greens, hey, this is Bangpra we’re talking about! They were all quick and dry as to be expected from this golf course, so get there early and do some practice putting before your round and save a few strokes. Remember our Boy Scout motto -”Be Prepared”!
Today saw another win for Mike Newbert as he has elevated his game to another level. He is playing some seriously good golf, and a lot of it. Steady Kenny Aihara was second and turned in a 34 point card while visiting Rob Hunt walked off with third for just 32 points. At Bangpra, that score can sometimes be a blessing! Thanks for joining us this week for golf with The Golf Club!
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!


Another Silky Oak extravaganza

The Pattaya Golf Society (IPGC) at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

Excellent Sports Day “vfm”, 99% course vacancy rate, superb course conditions ... Silky Oak represents most of what Pattaya’s more discerning golfers are looking for this low season and the Pattaya Golf Society paid its second visit of the season to the course on Monday, 13th May, to play a stableford event.
Once again there was an air of “millionaires’” golf as the groups left the tee on an empty course and focused golfers soon found their game. Sam McLellan posted 36 points for third place, just one behind course debutant Alan Flynn who completed the card with 37 well crafted points for second place. The group’s most consistent golfer of late is Canadian John Chelo and he performed well once again returning 39 points for a well deserved win.
There were no birdie ‘2’s on the tough par threes.
With many favourable post-round comments the group are keenly looking forward to the next visit in June. Sadly, after the “man of the match”, John Chelo has returned to Canada!
Canada Club at Burapha
On Wednesday, 15th May, the Pattaya Golf Society travelled to Burapha to play a stableford competition on the East combination - the C and D nines. The course was in fine condition except for the greens on D which were cored and sanded but good lies abounded on the fairways. The heat continued to be a problem and good scores were hard to come by.
Taking third place with 32 points was Canadian John Chelo, only one point in arrears of Billy Fitzgerald with 33 but the winner was another Canadian, Gordon Everingham, with 34 points.
The ‘2’s pot was shared by Johnny Larsson, Sam McLellan and Ken Grimes and the Booby Bevy found its way into Garry Hookey’s hands for his 13-18 split; ironically performing better on the poorer greens. Golf is full of such imponderables!


A triple crown for Barrie

The Billabong Bar Golf Society

Monday, May 13,Crystal Bay - Stableford
There wasjust a small field today playing Crystal Bay with the course empty but in grand condition. We had lightning, thunder and rain all around but thankfully not one drop fell anywhere near us. The greens were quick in some places and a little slow in others but all in all it was a great day out was had by all.

George Barrie holds up his 46-point scorecard from Crystal Bay.

There was one exceptional performance today coming from a man by the name of George Barrie who had the round of his life. Playing off his 28 handicap (not for much longer) he posted 22 points on the A side but bettered that on the B side by 2 points, scoring 24. Just in case you can’t add up that equates to a 46 stableford points total.
Standing on the 18th tee George said to one of his playing partners, “I have been trying to break 100 and I think today is the day. I have had 85 off the stick to here and with one par four left I would have to break a leg not to do it.” Unfortunately he bogied the last to score 90 and it would have been fantastic to see him break the 90 mark, but still a magnificent game George and congratulation’s from all.
Obviously George won the day and took all the prizes. Again there were no ‘2’s recorded.
Wednesday, May 15, St. Andrews - Stableford
A pleasant change today from Green Valley as we were sent to play St Andrew’s instead as there was a large tournament on the Green Valley course. Not having played here for a year or two it was pleasure. The green’s had been recently scarified and were not good to putt on but were just great today according to Paul Greenaway who played there the previous Friday.
The day was not as hot as we have had lately and with a gentle breeze blowing it was perfect weather conditions for golf.
There were some good scores and a few that will not be mentioned in dispatches, however the winner for today was the same guy who shot the lights out on Monday, George Barrie, and even with a melt down on the 18th he still scored 36 points to take line honours. Coming in second on a count back was Mark Riggall on 35 points to edge Jeff North on the same score into third.
Once again there were no ‘2’s recorded.
Friday, May 17,Treasure Hill - Stabelford
It’s a long road to Treasure Hill but worth the effort to get there as the course is in magnificent condition, even after all the storms they have endured over the last week or two.
George Barrie, playing with one of his sons and a friend who had just flown in from Indonesia after doing a 100km charity walk, found the course to his liking as he won the day again today. That’s his record day Monday with 46 points, his win at St Andrew’s on Wednesday, and victory again today with 31 points. That takes the cake mate! The boy’s are asking when are you going back to work so they can have a chance of winning? In second today was Willie Dunlop with 26 points.
It was another barren day on the par 3’s with again no ‘2’s recorded.
Note: If you are looking for a game of with some friendly golfers give Bob a call on 082 204 3411 or call into the Billabong Bar and put your name on the sheet. We are located just off Siam Country Club Road, looking straight down Lake Mabprachan.


Golfers salute an old friend at ‘Papa’ Ray Memorial Scramble

The winning 4-ball with organizer Dave Richardson (left).

Derek Brook
Thursday, May 18, Plutaluang N&W – 4-Man Scramble
The legend continues and gains strength as the years go by. When Ray Rogers went to the ‘great golf course in the sky’, his nephew Gary declared that he would keep the annual golf day going as long as he could, or at least until when Ray would have been 100 years old. That is in two years time.
Fully supported by his friends, this will continue to go forward from strength to strength. Gary was not there on this day, as amongst other things to be done at home in U.S.A. he had to remove the tree from Liberace’s Rolls Royce, but he sent his very best to all his friends, and promised that in two years, when Ray would have turned 100, that it will be a big day - and sadly maybe the last!

Tournament runners-up with Dave.

Dave Richardson continues to be the strength of the ‘organisation’ side, supported by his team, and by the scribe, the ever faithful recorder. The friends of ‘Papa’ Ray and Gary rally round, and many old faces come out of hiding. Particular thanks go to Bjarne and his family from The Cafe Kronberg who provided the buffet food which went down particularly well this year with the hungry golfers, and the absence of the airborne menace of previous years.
Gary is the major sponsor of this event and every year he throws himself into the day by providing his house for the après-golf party, sponsoring the many prizes, and being the ever respectful host. I am certain his Uncle Ray would be most proud of him. From all who take part and fondly remember Ray, our thanks go to Gary for his continuing commitment.

A depleted third placed team pick up their prizes.

Onto the day, and Dave Richardson had slaved away as he usually does to get together a number of groups and zoomed about raising additional bits and pieces to make the day a success. An event such as this does not just happen and Dave was out and about for some time previously. On this day, with towels for all the golfers and fine prizes, Gary and Dave surpassed themselves.

PSC Charity Chairman William Macey (center) thanks all the golfers.

So we all turned up at Plutaluang, which offers a great deal at present, and playing off either the North or West nines we had a two-tee start. This 18-hole combination is, as all who play there know, a really difficult test of golf.
The course as such was in very good condition, and while these 18 holes are maybe not the most esthetically pleasing to the eye, there offer a real challenge for your average golfer. I must also say that these days it is very well maintained and the fairways and greens are well manicured and looked after. All commentated on how good the course looked as we drove past it.
The restaurant at Plutaluang is probably the best value of any course in the area. It has inherent advantages in that it is on a military base, but it has to be said the food is usually very good and well priced and the views are exceptional. Well worth a visit. Mind, with the food at Gary’s beckoning most sat and had a beer until the results were in and then a quick drive back.

Café Kronborg’s Bjarne provided a great spread for the players.

You can always tell where the house is due to the cars parked all down the road, and through the gates the tables were set out and the beer was flowing. The buffet was laid out and the tables were full of hungry golfers filling up on cold beer and good food.
Then it was time for the presentation and Emcee Dave was soon underway. Firstly he thanked all who helped him, and paid particular attention to Gary who gave up his house for the day and so heavily sponsored the event. Then it was into the golf results. Firstly Dave gave out the technical prizes, reported below and then onto the team winners.

The work never stops for the organizers.

In third place with a net 57.7 were Tom Thompson, John Helm, Kenny Price and Ed Behr. Occupying second spot with a net 57.1 were quartet of Clive Robinson, Loresch, Bob Rasmussen and Herb Pastor. And so to the winners; and with a net 56.9 the champions this year were Larry Deverdenne, Tony Huxtable, Rich Murphy and Tom Yahnke. Well done and a great score!
With the presentations over it was time for Dave’s ‘lucky draws’ and all went home with something. Then the pickup was emptied and all went home till next year. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Tony Huxtable (2), William Macey, Mark West
Long Putts: Tony Huxtable, Tom Thompson

Happy golfers enjoy the moment.


Markku Tynell leaves them trailing

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 13, Khao Kheow A & C - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Darryl Kellett (16) 30pts
2nd Mike Hill (19) 29pts
3rd Terry Hodgkiss (23) 27pts
4th Rodney Nabbe (10) 26pts
Khao Kheow is one of the courses that will be featured by the Haven groups during the low season as a combination of great layout, good condition and very reasonable prices combine to give the player a great day’s golf. It seems the management here have not been led down the slippery slope of attempting to drive up the prices for groups of less than twenty green fees, unlike some other courses in the area.

Darryl Kellett.
It is to be hoped that some of those courses that have taken this policy as standard will soon understand the situation that the world economy is experiencing at the present time and get back to reality.
Having run second twice the previous week, Darryl Kellett at last took the top step of the podium today even though his score was not one that he would be writing home about. It was however on the day a very good round, given the difficulty of the course and the conditions. With the wind blowing seemingly in all directions at once, keeping the ball on the short stuff was more than most could achieve as the returned cards bore testament. Darryl’s secret weapon “The Caddy Masterer” played its part in his win with its only weakness, the inability to tell the depth of water.
Mike Hill kept at it, taking just one blob during a round that he struggled to keep on course and might have spoilt Darryl’s day albeit for a slip up on the last hole, but he had done enough to earn second place ahead of Terry Hodgkiss in third and Rodney Nabbe in fourth.

Allen Raaen.

Even though the course was playing at possibly its toughest, both of the 2’s pools were taken with the second division being swept by Terry Hodgkiss while Lex McDonald and Darryl Kellett shared the first division.
Before the presentations were made there were welcome backs for Rodney Nabbe, now known as “Gentleman Rod” due his habit of opening doors for everyone, and Allan Heavey, who was sporting a new set of clubs, woods, putter and bag, purchased at a local sale in Darwin before leaving home, unfortunately they had sold out of swings which caused a few problems during the workout with them on this occasion.
There was also a farewell and good wishes for Mike Hill, who was returning to Blighty, among other things, to assist with the coaching of the England cricket team in preparation for their upcoming games with New Zealand and Australia via his Twitter account.
Wednesday, May 15, Bangpra - Stableford
CSS 74
1st Allen Raaen (9) 35pts
2nd Terry Hodgkiss (23) 35pts
3rd Darryl Kellett (16) 33pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (12) 33pts
5th Markku Tynell (25) 31pts
It is always a pleasure to play Bangpra, as long as one keeps an eye out for the scavenging monkeys who will have anything out of an unguarded golf cart in the hopes that it might be food, but the caddies are generally well versed at keep them at bay while the player concentrates on knobbling it around them.

Markku Tynell.
The conditions had softened two days after Monday’s tribulations and although the greens were slow, due no doubt to the recent wet weather and lack of mowing, the rest of the course was in good condition, although there was very little run on the fairways.
Allen Raaen’s fine round to win the day was a lesson in application, with his card not including a six or more on any hole and then he won the count back with a better 13 to 10 to deny the improving Terry Hodgkiss a long awaited win. But Terry’s card showed that it surely will not be too long before he closes out a few wins and the handicap starts to drop once again as he finished with four 3-pointers and no zeros.
Darryl Kellett again showed strongly with a return that for a change beat out Trevor Schirmer on a count back by a margin of 16 to 15, with Markku Tynell in fifth place a couple more adrift.
As happens quite frequently at Bangpra there were no 2’s in either division, no doubt due on this occasion to the positioning of the tees on the par 3s which were about as far back as they could possibly be. The second on the A nine was playing around 186 yards, into a stiff breeze, from just in front of the blues as a point in case.
Friday, May 17, The Emerald - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Markku Tynell (25) 39pts
2nd Hal Hart (22) 37pts
3rd Rodney Nabbe (10) 35pts
4th Terry Hodgkiss (23) 34pts
5th Darryl Kellett (16) 34pts
Clear skies and light winds greeted the hopefuls as they prepared to take on the tricky Emerald layout, designed mostly by Sir Nick Faldo, strewn with his signature bunkers and featuring more that the usual number of small greens, but always fun to play with its challenging stances that can be found even in the center of the fairways.
Markku Tynell was at last repaid for the hours spent on the practice range as he returned his best score for more than a year. That was good enough by two win ahead of Hal Hart, who whilst not featuring amongst the mentions always seems to be at the receiving end of his wagers. Markku’s win came in spite of the fact that his card showed a couple of zero pointers but also included a couple of fours and six threes, five of which were on the back nine with one of the zeros being on the last.
Hal also had a couple of four-pointers in his score and surely he will soon be featuring higher up the winning lists if his play continues to improve.
Rodney Nabbe found the course more to his length as he put in his best of the week in the hopes that next week’s scores may well be better with a possible win in sight. He took third place ahead of Terry Hodgkiss who had to win a count back over the week’s podium ever-present Darryl Kellett, which he did with a better 18 to 15 to continue Darryl’s underperforming record in count backs recently.
After a solid start that saw him playing to a new handicap that had been reduced by two strokes, Trevor Schirmer had lost the will to live after a run of nine holes when he scored just seven points up to the 12th hole and then closed out the last four holes with just two points for his worst return since returning from Oz.
Back at The Haven there was a welcome back for Roar Berger.
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.


Briggs doesn’t monkey around

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Tuesday, May 14, Bangpra - Stableford
Tuesday was a long awaited return to Bangpra, a course that is not readily accessible throughout the high season. The course was in good condition, with the greens running truly and noticeably more receptive to the well struck shot than previous years. The heat was oppressive, so let’s hope for a bit of breeze to come in over the next few weeks.

Colin Quinlan.

Graham Briggs (26) playing the course for the first time, shot a day’s best of 36 points, ahead of Jeff Wylie (7) who signed for 34points, with Colin Quinlan (9) rounding out the podium with 33 points. Near pins went to Colin, Jeff, Dave & Owen.
Thursday, May 16, Pattana - Stableford
Pattana was our venue for Thursday’s game, with the B & A combination our test, again in the heat, with little or no breeze for relief. The course was in good condition with smooth well grassed fairways, while the greens were running fast and true.
Scores were generally pretty close, with Colin Quinlan (9) just edging Owen Walkley (9) on count back 19/18 after both signed for a solid 34 points. Colin and Owen hogged the prizes today, with the 2 of them sharing the near pins between them also.
We had a group attend the PSC monthly tournament at Pleasant Valley on Friday, with mixed results. Joel Flor (20) got third spot in D Flight with 40 points, and Clive Hoseason (20) was on a good thing after 25 points on the front 9, but he faded badly, to just miss the prizes. Same could be said for A Flighter Jeff Wylie, who was playing well but had a brain fade mid round to shoot himself out of contention. Jeff and Joel each got a technical prize, Jeff with a near pin, while Joel got the long drive.
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!


Wayco & Reverend on top

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Dick Braimbridge, Gerry Crilly & Kevin Waycott.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, May 13, Bangpakong – Stableford
A relatively small field of 16 golfers were signed up for the day’s competition at Bangpakong Riverside Golf Club and we assembled at the Growling Swan ready for the longer than usual journey. We welcomed back yours truly from Perth Australia, Wanta Dacha & Suparp Korboon from Bangkok, Ted Morris and his mate John Davis and of course the colourful Walter Baechli recently returned from an overseas holiday.
We had just the one minivan thanks to people with cars helping out (notably Wendy & Alain) and as everyone was reasonably early we departed the GS 10 minutes ahead of schedule at 8.20 am. The traffic was fairly light exiting Pattaya and we had a very good run and arrived at the golf course just 64 minutes later.
The course was not too busy and for a change whilst playing here we managed to send our first four-ball away right on schedule at 10.00 am. It was extremely hot & humid and fairly overcast at first with no breeze at all so fluid intake was going to be the order of the day but thankfully a breeze did eventuate but unfortunately did not last too long.

Mike Gosden & Peter Long.

This usually pristine course is suffering a bit at the minute with many dry fairways and course renovation in process but as usual the greens were in tip top shape. The “no carts on the fairway” rule on the day was quite puzzling and tended to make the going slow particularly as we had groups in front that were certainly in no hurry. It was still an enjoyable outing on this lovely course and we managed to complete the full round in the slow time of four hours & forty five minutes.
We were able to have 2 Grades with three podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 17 and B Grade for 18 and over. Due to the smallish field we had nearest the pins on two of the par threes and longest first putt on the 18th green.
Kevin “Wayco” Waycott thrived in the oppressive conditions and took out the A grade section with a fine 42 points, two points ahead of Suparp “Anna” Korboon in second place and Takeshi Hakozaki finished third with 36 points. The B grade was won by Dick “Reverend” Braimbridge with 34 points and John Davis was second on 33 points with Max “Corsets” Bracegirdle finishing third with 31 points.
A Flight (0-17)
1st Kevin Waycott (11) 42pts
2nd Suparp Korboon (10) 40pts
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki (11) 36pts
B Flight (18+)
1st Dick Braimbridge (36) 34pts
2nd John Davis (24) 33pts
3rd Max Bracegirdle (28) 31pts
Near Pins: 7th – Wanta Dacha, 16th – Kevin Waycott
Long Putts: 18th – Dick Braimbridge
The Growling Swan NAGA Award, (awarded to the golfer who has the worst score on the day and discreetly their score is not made public) was well won by Geri Crilly who naturally accepted the “honour” in good spirit and wore the cap for a short while.
Thursday, May 16, Bangpra – Stableford
The venue for the day was the popular Bangpra and we had fourteen golfers ready to play after 2 late withdrawals due to sickness. We assembled at the Growling Swan and were happy to welcome back for a short visit Peter Long from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Once again we managed with just the one minivan thanks to help from Alain & Ebrahim who were happy to take the “overflow” and we departed the GS five minutes earlier than scheduled at 8.25 a.m.
We arrived at the course just 42 minutes later and as it was not too busy there was ample time for a few practice putts where the putting green reminded us of what was to come. The first of our 2 three-balls hit off 18 minutes before our booked time and the weather was terrific although we knew we were in for yet another hot one.
The golf course was in great shape and of course the greens as slick as ever but unusually no-one spotted any monkeys so I guess it was even too hot for them. It was necessary to stop for drinks several times due to the heat and we managed to complete the round in four hours & fifteen minutes. Once again a very pleasurable day on an excellent golf course with quality company.
As a result of the small field we had just the one grade with six podium places. There were also rewards for nearest the pins on two of the par threes and longest first putt on the eighteenth green.
Mike “Hunter” Gosden was a clear winner on the day with 38 points, 5 points ahead of Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei in second place and Gary Monley (18 point back nine) was third with 32 points, just beating Wanta Dacha (13 point back nine) on a count back. Another count back was required to sort out fifth & sixth with Suparp “Anna” Korboon (15 point back nine) edging out yours truly, Peter Blackburn (13 point back nine) with both scoring 31 points.
1st Mike Gosden (11) 38pts
2nd Alain Taddei (17) 33pts
3rd Gary Monley (36) 32pts
4th Wanta Dacha (9) 32pts
5th Suparp Korboon (10) 31pts
6th Peter Blackburn (11) 31pts
Near Pins: 8th – Walter Baechli, 17th – Frank Donnelly
Long Putts: 18th – Russell Calcutt
The Growling Swan NAGA Award was won by the visiting Peter Long who naturally wore the NAGA Cap with distinction in the bar afterwards. Many thanks to Shane “Jockey” Young who took Deefa the Dog for his customary walk & collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from the generous Growling Swan crew.
Note: Growling Swan 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 a.m. with transport departing at 8.30 a.m. For bookings or more information please contact Peter on 0806 351 386 or email to [email protected].


Smets takes the win at Emerald

Golf from the Beaver Bar & Grill

Paul Smets.

Friday, 17 May, found the Beaver Bar golf players arrive at the Emerald Golf Club for the weekly attempt at overcoming the challenge of a good score at this course. The course was in good condition and the greens O.K. except for a few ridges left over from sanding.
First place in the stableford competition was secured by Paul Smets with 39 points, with 3 other players coming home with 37 and 36 points as the course was tamed a little. Nearest to the pin on hole #7 was claimed by Roger Coe who made his birdie at the hole.
All returned to the Beaver Bar and Grill for lunch and cold beverages. Thanks to all those who attended and continue to support our weekly golf outings.


Mickey ‘putts’ the lights out

Golf from the Players Lounge

Tuesday, May 14, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Mick Beresford (18) 35pts
2nd Mark Wood (7) 34pts
3rd Bob Newell (6) 31pts
Mick Beresford found himself a little short of cash on Tuesday and was torn between visiting the ATM or playing a little golf. The line was too long at the ATM so he joined us for a great day on the most challenging Bangpra layout and came away with 35 points and first place, despite a concerted effort by last week’s three time winner Mark Wood.

Mick Beresford.

‘Broad more’ Bob, suffering from a mild case of concussion, stuck his nose in there again with 31 points for third. This now moves Bob into the lead of the career earning list of golfers who win money but do not play to their handicap, surpassing Jez ‘Lord Lucan’ Lees.
Tuesday and Saturdays game were cancelled due to the PSC Monthly Medal held on Friday.
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 or call Bob on 080 096 8232.


Max beats the heat at Bangpra

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 14, Bangpra – Stableford
Well it really does seem the low season is here as people depart and very few arrive. So it was a much lower number that turned up at Bert’s last Tuesday and got underway down (or up) to Bangpra. Getting there early we were able to get to the first tee and away on time.

Max Bracegirdle.

For most of the players this is a really first rate course, except for the monkeys, sneaky little devils. Leave anything loose around here and it has a good chance of disappearing. So we ploughed on in hot temperatures. The course was as you would expect at Bangpra, which is famous for its fast greens. Get above the pin and you are left praying for your first putt to stop somewhere near the hole.
Bangpra is also a great test of golf and on this day, with heat, it was to prove to be a lot more than most could handle. As the end came in sight most were flagging, oh for a cold shower. We were soon back in the changing rooms and then back to Bert’s.
The winner today was Max Bracegirdle with an even par 36 points. I played with him and he played really well. In second was Mike Gaussa with 33 points ahead of yours truly in third with 32, proving that someone who is in the B Flight can be lucky.
Near Pins: Max Bracegirdle (2), Mike Gaussa


Jerry gets that sweet, winning feeling

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

The Hua Hin road-trippers pose for a group photo.

Monday, May 13, Black Mountain, Hua Hin - Stableford
This was our 16th annual trip here and we arrived in Hua Hin on Saturday after a six hour journey in a 40-seater coach, with the discussions immediately afterwards suggesting that we should to the return trip home in mini buses.
There was a 72-hole competition over four days this week with an individual contest each for two divisions. The equal cut on Monday with 26 players was 5-18 and 19+ in division 2. The course as always was in great condition and we played off the 6,500 tee markers.
Don Head returned the best score of the day, winning division 1 with 37 points. Jeff Cordeiro was second one point behind and Kari Aarnio took third with 35.
In division 2 Andy Oz won with 36 points, Rod Howett was second on 34 and Bryan Priestley placed third on 32.
Near pins were spread around between Chuck Anderson, Jeff Cordeiro, Lindsay Phillips, Jerry Sweetnam, Glyn Evans, Rod Howett, Andy Oz and David Taylor.
Jerry Sweetnam birdied the 8th and and Chuck Anderson the 11th to share the ‘2’s pot in division 1 and a rollover ensued in division 2 to the Banyan.
Tuesday, May 14, The Banyan - Stableford
We were told earlier that the fairways had been holitized so we implemented a ‘pick and place’ ruling on the fairways and fringes from the first tee onwards, but nobody told us that the mud pellets were still on the fairways and the fringe on every green and they had not been picked up by the course lawnmowers and machinery and this was a nightmare today. We also had problems here last year in early May with 50% of each green being cored so the consensus now is to give this course a miss next year in the low season.
There are three 37’s in division 1, with Jerry Sweetnam on the top podium position after winning with a 20/19/18 back nine count back over Jon Poole and Jeff Cordeiro. In division 2, Colin James came in first with 35 points ahead of Bob Poole in second on 34 and Countback Burnie third with 30.
Near pins went to Don Head , Lindsay Phillips, Jon Poole (2), Tim Hake, Steve Ironside, Paul Renall and Burnie Sinclair.
There were no ‘2’s today so a rollover in both divisions to Sea Pines on Thursday.
After two rounds Jeff Cordeiro led the way with 73 points, Jerry Sweetnam was second on 71 and Don Head and Jon Poole joint third with 70s.
Thursday, May 16, Sea Pines - Stableford
This was only our second round here after everyone enjoyed playing the course last year. The final four holes are fascinating as they overlook the beach and the sea and this layout is a true test of golf.
The organizer Glyn Evans, with 15 points on the front nine and 22 on the back (his best round for many months) topped the division 2 standings today with 37 points. Andy Oz came in second six points behind and Rod Howett was third with a meagre 28 points.
Bob’s son Jon Poole won division 1 with 37 points ahead of Paul Renall who took second on count back over Martin Grimoldby after they both came in with 35 points each.
Near pins prizes were won by Jeff Cordeiro (2), Martin Grimoldby, Don Head, Kari Aarnio, Steve Ironside and Paul Renall.
Jeff Cordeiro birdied the 14th for the only ‘2’ in division 1 and there was yet another rollover in division 2 to Majestic.
Friday, May 17, Majestic Creek - Stableford
Our final round of the week and with the first six places very close it was all up for grabs.
There had been few late nights (or should I say early morning departures) from the bars back to the hotel for some of the younger players, no names mentioned, and this was reflected in the scores. 36 points was the best score of the day, winning division 2 for Colin James. Bob Poole was second with 34, Glyn Evans third one point behind and Andy Oz came in fourth with 32.
Three 35’s topped the standings in division 1 with the count back split of 22/18/17 seeing Paul Renall in first, Jerry Sweetnam second and Lindsay Phillips taking third.
Near pins went to Chuck Anderson, Jeff Cordeiro (2), Lindsay Phillips, Kari Aarnio, Glyn Evans, Colin James and Bryan Priestley.
Chuck Anderson birdied the 12th and Jerry Sweetnam the 17th to share the ‘2’s pot in division 1 and Bryan Priestley recorded the first ‘2’ of the week in division 2 to claim the very healthy rollover prize.
The worst shot of the week came on the 5th at Majestic where a drive on the stroke index 1 hole saw the ball go 50 yards into the air and land 1 foot forward of the white where it had just played from. No names mentioned, we’ll just call him Steve.
In the overall competition over four days, Jeff Cordeiro was in fourth place after losing out to Chuck Anderson on count back, both scoring 133. Jon Poole took second place with 136 points and the winner with 139 was Jerry Sweetnam. Well done Jerry!
The presentation was held at our normal restaurant on the pier which we visit every year and everybody enjoyed the golf and the company. It was a fantastic week and one of the best for quite a few years. Thanks everybody.


The first Noel

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
Noel Pittard is one of our Aussie regulars and boy did he have a good week on the golf courses of Pattaya. Without ever playing to his handicap he managed to win three of the four competitions organized by the TRGG last week. While the rest of us were trying to keep things together in the ever increasing heat and failing miserably, Noel was out there cool as a cucumber taking the competition apart. Well done to him.

Noel Pittard.

On Monday 13th May Bangpra was the venue and the first of Noel’s successes. Playing off his usual (7) handicap he shot 34pts which was equalled by another regular winner of late, John Baxter (15). However Noel had a better back nine and won on count back. Jim Sykes (9) took third spot with 33pts.
Tuesday 14th May and the Noel Pittard show moved on to Khao Kheow (A and B courses) and this time just 33pts was good enough for him to finish ahead of the rest. Jim Sykes (9) went one better than the day before by finishing second on 32 and Tony Molloy (15) was third on 30.
On Thursday 16th May at Phoenix (Mountain/Ocean courses) something went terribly wrong. Noel Pittard again shot 33pts but suddenly his clean sweep for the week went for a Burton when other golfers very inconsiderately returned with 40 plus points. As already mentioned the previous regular winner John Baxter (15), obviously very put out by the recent turn of events, went out and shot 41pts to return to the winner’s podium. Derek Thorogood (17) took over the Aussie challenge from Noel and finished second on 40pts. Good old Jeff Wilcox (24) continued his good scoring of late by finishing third on 38.
Friday 17th May and it was off on a first visit for many to Silky Oaks. Our hero of the week Noel Pittard, still playing off 7-handicap, shot his best score of the week, 35pts, which was good enough to return him to the winner’s enclosure. Fergus Brennan (12) decided it was time to get back in on the act and finished second on 33, whilst recently returning Rod Ewan (12) also shot 33pts but lost out on second place on count back.
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week!


Golfnutter: The Pace of Play

Welcome to Golfnutter’s Blog – a weekly commentary highlighting contemporary golfing issues, in Pattaya and beyond. For more on matters golf, go to www.golfnutter. wordpress.com.
Freddie the Farang of Pattaya loves his golf. He takes it seriously too. He’s always watching the pros on TV, seeing if he can’t build something else into his pre-shot routine. Freddie, handicap 25, often copies other player’s routines, especially if they are low-markers.
According to the US National Golf Foundation, the number of rounds played in the US each year, in the ten year period ending 2011, went from 518,000,000 down to 463,000,000. The main reason given was pace of play.
There’s nothing wrong with a 25-handicapper trying to emulate a 5-handicapper’s pre-shot routine, unless that routine is abnormally long. Similarly, average golfers imitating pros, in terms of pre-shot deliberations, need also be aware of the cost in time. The problem arises when the long-marker believes he is no slower than the short-marker simply because they have an identical pre-shot routine. What this assumption ignores is the 20 plus additional shots the long-marker will play. Aggregate time spent playing 18 holes is the issue here. The difference time-wise can be huge. This factor is often overlooked when pointing the slow-play finger.
Another reason for slow play, and it’s one we can do nothing about, is playing behind five or six-balls. Leaving aside the fact this is only an occasional event, and that some Thai five-balls are faster than many Farang four-balls, the truth of the matter is that this is not the main reason for slow play. The real culprit lies within our own ranks. It is us, or at least those of us who for whatever reason are slow.
Having lost ground to the field, what can a four-ball do to pick up its pace? The trick here is to recommend actions that do not impact on existing pre-shot routines, so it’s not a big deal, yet. This is phase one. Phase two is best done over a beer.
· If playing stableford, have players pick-up when their score on any one hole exceeds net one-over-par. At this point their stableford score for that hole will be zero.
· Introduce “ready golf”; a common term used to encourage whoever is ready to go ahead and play their shot, whether it’s their turn or not.
· As soon as the first player putts out, have them proceed to the next hole and tee off, immediately.
· Encourage players not to mark their cards when it’s their honour. Have them tee-off first.
· While waiting on the tee, or at any point through the green, work out what club you are going to play, and how. When it comes to your turn, you should be good to go.
· If you need to read your putt from the other side of the hole, do so while waiting your turn.
· Pay attention to the line of tee shots, not just your own.
· If doubt exists over whether a ball is in play, or may be difficult to find, always play a provisional ball. Please note if your ball is believed to be in a hazard, the Rules do not permit the playing of a provisional ball. If you’re playing with a PSC group, however, your Local Rules state you must play a provisional ball, regardless.
· If carting on a day when they are restricted to cart paths, please, please take more than one club with you when unsure of your lie or distance.
· People sharing golf carts should use them as a way to play faster, not as a way to be lazy and selfish. If four guys are playing in two carts, it is not necessary to drive to everyone’s ball. The player playing second can grab a few clubs a walk rather than wait.
Realise this, you could be a scratch or 30-handicapper, it matters not. In the minds of many golfers it is how long they perceive you take when it is your shot that will form their view – notwithstanding aggregate time taken. But also realise that a golfer has every right to a routine, even a meticulous one, if it means he increases the chance of keeping his ball in play. The same tolerance need not be applied around the greens.
Appreciate that the new golfer in your group may never have received tuition on pace of play. If this appears the case, then it is beholden upon the experienced golfer to pass on appropriate guidance.
As for Freddie, he can employ whatever pre-shot routine he likes, so long as he realises the total time that routine requires to play a hundred shots.
One great tip for saving time on putting greens – watch the world’s number two-ranked golfer next time he is on TV and copy his putting routine, his practise putting stroke in particular.


Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

 
200 Bowlers: Ooy and Wade.
 
This league is a merry-go-round with the first place team changing almost every week. Café Kronborg once again captured first place after winning three points from last week’s first place team Indiana. Kran Nielsen led Kronborg with a 516 series.
Joe Ferral bowled a 530 series and Tao had a 516 to lead Semper FI to a three point win over Bavaria. Semper FI moved up to second place.
Canada won three points from the Blind Team and remains in fourth place. Wade Meyers bowled a 213 game for Canada.
Noodle Russell bowled a 549 series and Tukata Thompson had a 505 to lead Green Tree to a four point win over VFW Post 9876.
Jack Tar won two points from Brother D with Ooy Pluemkamon leading the way for Jack Tar with a 218 game and 556 series. Tue Pettae was best for Brother D with a 528 series.
 
Results & Standings May 17 (week 20)
Pos. Team Score Standings
1 Café Kronborg 3-1 48 - 32
2 Semper FI 3-1 48 - 32
3 Indiana 1-3 47 - 33
4 Canada 3-1 45 - 35
5 Green Tree 4 - 0 44.5 - 35.5
6 VFW Post 9876 0 - 4 40 - 40
7 Bavaria 1-3 39 - 41
8 Jack Tar 2-2 38.5 - 41.5
9 Brother D 2-2 35 - 45
10 Blind 1-3 15 - 65

Thakkar hacking it again

Phoenix Members Golf Society

Jim Neilson and his lovely wife hold up the 1st prize KPK Foods voucher.

Mike Gerrard
We are now back playing the Ocean course again at Phoenix whilst the Lake course is closed for a few weeks for maintenance work. A lot of work has been done to thin the trees down a little and thus some of the more difficult shots have now become partly manageable (that’s if you hit the ball straight). The most notable change is at the 9th Ocean hole where there is now a beautiful scenic view from the tee box. It is amazing how the tree tops were hiding such a magnificent view.
On Tuesday, May 14 we battled for the KPK Food Services voucher. Jim Neilson has struggled for some time since he joined our group some months ago, but in true Scottish style he has battled on and at last his true form is starting to show through. Jim scored a good 37 points today to win the first prize plus the KPK Food voucher. In second place was Patrick Browne with another super score of 36 points. This was after having his handicap cut due to a 42 points the previous week.
Taking third place was ‘Mr. consistency’ Mukesh Thakkar with 35 points. The amazing thing about this score was that Mukesh only scored 11 points on the front nine with 24 on the back - chipping in from off the green on both the 17th and 18th hole for consecutive birdies and earning a massive 7 points on the last two holes. Not bad for a (T)Hakkar.
Near pins went to Patrick Browne, Richard Baldwin & Mukesh Thakkar. The lucky draw massage was awarded to Patrick Browne with the other lucky draw winners of Kristinn Helgason, Gerry Hughes and myself winning the free drink. Sods law, I was only drinking soda water!
We had a normal stableford format game on Friday, May 17 and our winner was again Mukesh Thakkar as he managed to score 37 points to claim first prize. In second place was the banana man, Granville Swanton, with 35 points and in third was myself, Mike Gerrard, also with 35 but with an inferior back nine to Granville.
Near pins went to Mike Gerrard, Granville Swanton, Richard Baldwin & Mukesh Thakkar.
Richard Baldwin was the first name out of the hat to win the free massage, and Bill Hewitt the free drink. Both these prizes are donated by our hosts The Relax Bar every time we play. The other lucky draw winner was, need I say, Joris Goetschalckx.
All in all the week ended up with nearly everyone winning something and surviving another episode of life in paradise.
If anyone is interested in playing golf with our group or partaking in one of our sea fishing trips, please call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565 for further information.


WKD Tuesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 14 (week 1)

Team P W L B/legs Pts.
Londoner 1 1 0 1 2
Mee Chew Sports Bar 1 1 0 1 2
Scandalic 1 1 0 1 2
Shoot Pool Roxy 1 1 0 1 2
W. Tankies 1 1 0 1 2
Irish Rovers 1 1 0 0 2
Jantha Coffee House 1 1 0 0 2
Buffalo Jack’s 1 0 1 1 0
Crazy Eddies 1 0 1 1 0
Cum On Inn 1 0 1 0 0
Mai’s Bar 1 0 1 0 0
Nervous Wreck 1 0 1 0 0
Shoot Pool 1 0 1 0 0
Yates Bar 1 0 1 0 0
Results:  Irish Rovers 7 v 6 Crazy Eddies, Jantha Coffee House 5 v 2 Buffalo Jack’s, Londoner 7 v 3 Shoot Pool, Mai’s Bar 3 v 4 Scandalic, Mee Chew Sports Bar 5v 2 Cum On Inn, Shoot Pool Roxy 6 v 5 Yates Bar, W. Tankies 9 v 3 Nervous Wreck


Morris is the man for May

Words by Nigel Cannon / Photos by William Macey
On this fine Friday morning May 17, there were 96 members competing including 15 ladies and a number of new faces assembled at Pleasant Valley Golf Course for the May PSC monthly tournament. They received the usual warm welcome from PSC Golf Chairman Joe Mooneyham and Social Chairman Nigel Cannon.

Ted Morris - winner of ‘B’ Flight.
The course was in a reasonable condition with a competitive pricing structure for both green fee and carts. It was a 2-tee start which went smoothly despite some local infiltrators which meant some rounds were over the 4 hour mark. The weather was hot and sunny.

As the cards were checked it was clear that a good score was necessary to get a podium place. The low gross winner was Steve Snelgrove (6) with a 76 gross, winning on count back from Bob Newell. It was the same Bob Newell (6) who won ‘A’ Flight with a net 70 from the blue tees.

‘C’ Flight winner Lewis Szigligeti with Colin.

‘B’ Flight saw the return of Ted Morris (13) taking top spot with the best of the day – 45 points. In ‘C’ flight 44 points from Lewis Szigligeti (18) gave him the win, and John Sheppard (25) with 41 points took ‘D’ Flight honours. Jim Elphick (23) was the Senior winner with 36 points.
With 15 ladies the prizes went to the top 3 in their division with Anna Korboon (10) taking first place with a fine 43 points.
The presentation this month was at the ever-popular Lewiinski’s where Colin Davis and his team provided a truly international buffet which saw many going back for ‘seconds’ that together with excellent drinks service rounded off a great day.

Dunt - Longest drive.
Once all were satisfied Nigel called order, welcomed all and introduced Joe Mooneyham who expressed his appreciation for the support for the day’s tournament and the help from Nigel and William. He also expressed his thanks to the PSC office staff who now assist in the preparatory work prior to the day. Also thanks to Noi Emmerson who sold the draw tickets.
Nigel called the winning names and Joe presented the prizes, with William taking the photos. The lucky draw followed and then the traditional 50/50 draw.
The next PSC monthly is at Eastern Star on Friday 21st June – sign-up at the PSC office.

Low gross winner Steve Snelgrove.

Bob Newell - winner ‘A’ Flight.

A happy 50/50 winner with PSC Golf Chairman Joe Mooneyham.

Ladies winner Anna with her playing partner.


Top Asian racers line-up for Samui Regatta 2013

A strong line-up of sailors from around Asia and beyond are set to compete at the 2013 Samui Regatta.

The line-up of boats for the 2013 Samui Regatta, which is set to take place May 25th to June 1st off Chaweng Beach on the tropical Island of Koh Samui, is looking strong with a mix of top international racers and regional regatta veterans set to compete. Organised by Regattas Asia, a leading regatta and marine-based sporting event management company in Asia, Samui Regatta is celebrating its 12th year.
Familiar faces on the Asian regatta scene Frank Pong (HKG) and Geoff Hill (HKG) will be leading the charge with the two largest boats in the fleet – Jelik (75ft) and Antipodes (72ft), respectively. Battling it out with them in IRC Zero will be Sam Chan’s TP52 Freefire (HKG), a team from the Royal Malaysian Navy sailing their DK47 Uranus and the Aquila Reichel Pugh 45 Katsu (AUS) skippered by owner Ben Copley.
In the ever-growing 40-foot fleet, the top contenders are converging at Samui Regatta to battle it out for the glory in this the final event of the prestigious 2012/13 Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship. Competing in IRC One, EFG Bank Mandrake (HKG), skippered by Nick Burns is back to defend their title on the well campaigned Mills 40. After losing the title on the last day of last year’s regatta, Bill Bremner and crew on Foxy Lady VI (SIN/CAN) are back to make amends and will be up against Walawala 2 (SIN), WindSikher (SIN), Rikki Tikki Tavi (SIN), Elektra (HKG), Siren (HKG), El Coyote (AUS) and Dynamite (AUS).
“It’s great to see such a competitive fleet of boats lining up for the Samui Regatta. Indeed, across all the classes there are some very evenly matched boats and crews and I’m sure all will enjoy the five days of racing we have planned for them,” said Simon James, Race Director.
Having lost out on the IRC Two title by a single point last year, Lennart Fahlgren is back with Amanda (SWE) and will be racing against Souay 1 (CAN), Moon Shadow (THA), local favourite Royal Thai Navy 1, and Rolex Sydney Hobart veteran Matt Allen on his Adams 10 Ichiban (AUS). With victories at the Phuket King’s Cup and Top of the Gulf regattas in the last 12 months, Ichiban looks the one to beat.
A battle of the Sun Odyssey’s is set for the Charter class with the Sun Odyssey 43 DS Paprika II (THA) up against two Sun Odyssey 409 2.10 – The Waugh Ship (Ti-Punch) (AUS), skippered by Barry Waugh and Andaman Sea Pilot (THA), skippered by local regatta veteran Andy Dowden.
With last year’s winner of the Multihull class Fantasia unable to defend their title this year, a new winner is set to be crowned from a line-up of some of the region’s best multihull sailors. Largest in the class is the Crowther 42 Sonic (THA), skippered by Kirati Assakul who will be up against the well-travelled Corsair 38 Miss Saigon (GBR), skippered by David Liddell, Radab Kanjanavanit and his all-Thai crew on Cedar Swan (THA), and locally-built Crazy Horse (THA), skippered by Kunta.
If the winds are blowing, one to watch out for in the Multihulls is Henry Kaye’s Seacart 26 Sweet Chariot (THA), which favours the strong winds Samui Regatta is famed for.
“Samui Regatta has become well known for its top quality racing and professional on-water race management, and again this year the ISAF International Race Officer Ross Chisholm will be calling the shots on-the-water,” commented James.
The Regatta is equally well known for its onshore social scene and the beachfront Regatta Tavern which becomes the focal point early evening as the sailors come ashore. The five days of racing is combined with six nights of parties, including the offsite Beach Republic Party – a mid-week highlight – and the closing Gala Dinner and presentations hosted by Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui under the stars – a fitting finale to the ‘Tropical Island Regatta’.
The 2013 Samui Regatta is organised by leading regatta services provider, Regattas Asia, with strong support from Samui businesses and staff.
(Source: Infinity Communications)


Winners emerge from Spring bowls season

Spy Classic Sunday winners.

Last week saw the conclusion of the Spring bowls leagues and an added Spy Classic Sunday at Coco Club Resort. The Friday triples league was won with a week in hand by Brian’s Team with wife Pin and Lek but the runners-up spots were prolonged to the last bowls of a seven-week season, with Thanom, hubbie Harvey and Ian just getting the better of Dave’s Pro Team with Kelvin and Coco’s Sue by just two bowls.
The Wednesday pairs result was a reverse with Dave and Ian having it sewn up very early, but again the runners-up places were fought for until the end and this time it was Joe and Thanom who came out of a three-way tie ahead of Brian and Pin.
Sunday’s out of the hat pairs shows who can play with anyone and Ken almost held on to his early lead but Bank came from behind to sneak it by a point from Ken, with Alex taking third place.
Sunday the 12th May had an extra event with Spy Classic weighing in with some very pleasant bonuses and a 2000 baht special winners prize which was well appreciated by the ladies, as seen in the picture. This was won by Joe and Thanom from Brian and Lek, with Muk and Kelvin taking third and Ken and Bert in fourth.
New players always welcome with a mini bus pick up from Pattaya and Bang Chang - call Sue on 087 135 8357.


Trail runners heading to Pattaya

Columbia Trail Masters coming to Khao Mai Keaw, Sunday, June 16.

The Columbia Trail Masters 2013 will take place at Khao Mai Keaw in East Pattaya on Sunday, June 16.
The 5th edition of the Thailand Trail Running Championship is open to all and will offer 4 distances as follows: 50km trail run ultra, 25km trail run, 10km trail run and 3.5km fun run/walk for children and families. These fun runs are designed to be a part of the local communities in the event and to promote sports, fair play and camaraderie amongst children. This initiative has proven very popular in other AMA events.
Trail running is a new and very fast growing sport that integrates physical and mental endurance, the great outdoors and adventure. When people think of running, they most often picture running on the road or running on a track. But, a lot of runners opt to run on hiking trails in natural settings. Trail running combines the beautiful outdoor scenery of hiking with the physical challenges of running. If you are the type that loves being in beautiful, outdoor settings, then trail running is something for you.
In addition to the running events, an Expo village will be set up for sponsors to display and sell their products and services and this will sit alongside a kid’s corner to keep the younger ones entertained. A post-race lunch will also be served in a friendly and festive atmosphere.
There is no age limit to take part in this event and prize money and trophies will be allocated in several age and gender based categories. Entrance fees are 1250 baht for the 50km race, 900 baht for the 25km race, 750 baht for the 10km race and 150 baht (Adults pay only) for the 3.5km fun run/walk. Entrance fees include a souvenir official race T-shirt for 50, 25 and 10km runners, a souvenir medal for all, and lunch for all.
To register, go to website www.ama-events.com or contact Active Management Asia: [email protected] Tel: 02-7189581.


Local riders take top honors at Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge

MTB riders line up at the start for the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge on Sunday May 12.

Vittaya Yoondorn
Cyclists from Chonburi and Rayong took the top honors as riders from Thailand’s 77 provinces competed for cash and trophies in the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge.
Thonghcai Biadnok of the Infinite Rayong Bicycle team placed first in the 45-49 age bracket, earning the HRH Princess Chulabhorn Cup from Manoj Nongyai, president of the Pattaya Bicycle Club, which co-sponsored the May 11-12 event. 1MSgt Surat Nanthapanjaporn of Thai Airways International placed second and Bunjan Phenpinij of the Peter Bike Team took third.
In the General Public category, Chinapat Sukhsaen of the Chonburi Forest Sub-district municipal office took home the HRH Princess Chulabhorn Cup and cash. Sujit Wirojwong of the Pattaya Bike Club placed second and Somrak Mabprakorb of the RB Thai Racing Bike team took third.

Thongchai Biadnok from the Infinite Rayong Bicycle was the winner of the 45-49 age category.

Carried out in partnership with the Royal Aeronautic Sports Association of Thailand and Burapha University, the competition was aimed at making mountain bikes more popular with Thai youths, leading to good health and productive use of their spare time. The event was part of the 2013 Air Sea Land Games being held throughout May in Thailand.
Contestants were split into 18 categories to take on the 6.5km track on Pratumnak Hill, filled with obstacles and challenges. More than 20 teams competed and rider’s scores were based on the cumulative times of five runs each.
Winners in other brackets received prizes from other competition sponsors and guests. Fireworks marked the final day of competition and the contest also featured an exhibition of SN Bikes, including booths selling bicycle parts and accessories.

Riders tackle the challenging 6.5km mix-terrain course on Pratamnak Hill.

Chinapat Sukhsaen from Chonburi Forest Municipality office shows off his HRH Princess Chulabhorn trophy after winning the General Public category.


Former world heavyweight champ Bowe to make Thailand ring debut

American Riddick Bowe, the former undisputed world heavyweight boxing champion has come out of retirement to try his hand at Muay Thai and will make his ring debut in the classic Asian combat sport at the World Thai Superfight extravaganza, scheduled to be held at the Indoor Stadium Huamark in Bangkok on Friday, June 14.
The 45-year old Bowe, famous for his thrilling trilogy of fights with Evander Holyfield two decades ago, hasn’t fought since he defeated Gene Pukall by unanimous decision in December 2008 on the Wladimir Klitschko-Hasim Rahman undercard. In Bangkok, Bowe will face off against Russian Levgen Golovin for the WBC & WMC Muay Thai super-heavyweight crowns.
The former champ is currently in Thailand preparing for the bout under the tutelage of local Muay Thai boxing gurus and is trying to get up to speed on the nuances and techniques of the sport. Bowe has previously trained in the discipline under Kru Airr Phan-thip and Kru Chan in Las Vegas. The fight was originally listed to take place this month in Pattaya but was postponed after Bowe suffered an ankle injury in training and has now been switched to the Bangkok venue.
“After my retirement (from boxing), I have tried many fighting sports but none is as good as Muay Thai,” Bowe told reporters on his arrival in Thailand on May 14. “I have recovered from an ankle injury and I’m ready for the fight.”
Whether Bowe can make the transition over to Muay Thai remains to be seen. The boxer was often criticized during his career for his lack of conditioning and weight problems between bouts, so it will be interesting to see in what shape he steps into the ring here in Thailand.
One man who has no doubts about the validity of Bowe’s mission to switch disciplines though is Sakol Wannapong, deputy governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand. “He (Bowe) might not be as competitive as he once was but he is still good enough to attract fans. With such a big name in the event, it is a great opportunity to promote Muay Thai,” he told reporters.
And Bowe might not be the only big name boxer to enter the fighting arena in Thailand this year. The promoters of this event are keen to persuade Mike Tyson to end his ring exile and perform at a Muay Thai event later in the year. Tyson has previously displayed a keen interest in the sport and a fight here in Thailand featuring the former champ might not be as far-fetched as it sounds.
“I think there is a 70 percent chance that he will be here,” says promoter Somsak Sunatvanichkul.


Dolphins left deflated by late Bangkok winner

Pattaya United’s horrendous home form at the Nongprue Stadium continued against Bangkok Glass last Saturday when they lost to a late goal by Peerapong Pichitchotirat.
The visitors took the lead in the 29th minute through midfielder Suphasek Kaikaew who tapped home a right-wing cross after some poor defending by Pattaya. The Dolphins got back on level terms though on the stroke of halftime as Dyachenko took advantage of some slack marking in the Bangkok area to bundle home a corner kick.
The match looked to be heading towards a respectable draw for both teams until Pichitchotirat fired in a superb free-kick from the edge of the Dolphins area in the 81st minute that left the Pattaya keeper rooted to the spot.
United have now failed to garner a single point from any of their home matches this season and have once more dropped back into the bottom three. The Pattaya team faces a difficult trip to Chainat this coming Sunday, May 26, with kick-off scheduled for 6 p.m.

Thai Premier League Results & Standings May 19
Team P W D L +/- Pts.
Muang Thong United 11 9 1 1 13 28
Buriram United 10 7 3 0 15 24
Chonburi 10 7 2 1 10 23
Suphanburi 11 5 4 2 5 19
TOT 11 5 3 3 1 18
BEC Tero Sasana 10 4 5 1 4 17
Army United 10 4 3 3 9 15
Chainat 11 3 6 2 2 15
Bangkok Glass 11 4 2 5 -1 14
Songkhla United 11 3 5 3 -5 14
Ratchaburi 11 2 4 5 -4 10
Police United 10 2 4 4 -5 10
Osotspa 10 2 3 5 -7 9
Chiangrai United 10 1 5 4 -4 8
Samut Songkhram 10 1 5 4 -4 8
Pattaya United 11 2 0 9 -13 6
Bangkok United 11 1 2 8 -12 5
Sisaket 3 0 1 2 -4 1
Results:  TOT 1 v 2 Muang Thong United, Bangkok United 1 v 2 Suphanburi, Pattaya United 1 v 2 Bangkok Glass, Ratchaburi 2 v 3 Chainat, Army United 1 v 1 Songkhla United, Osotspa 0 v 1 Chiangrai United, Samut Songkhram 2 v 1 Police United


HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]

Mabprachan Pool Team Knock-Out

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Khao Noi Sports Bar Thursday Darts League

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

‘The Rajah’ is awarded the Medal

Graham top scores for the week

Joe & Nuan find the winning formula

Mike Newbert is here to stay

Another Silky Oak extravaganza

A triple crown for Barrie

Golfers salute an old friend at ‘Papa’ Ray Memorial Scramble

Markku Tynell leaves them trailing

Briggs doesn’t monkey around

Wayco & Reverend on top

Smets takes the win at Emerald

Mickey ‘putts’ the lights out

Max beats the heat at Bangpra

Jerry gets that sweet, winning feeling

The first Noel

Golfnutter: The Pace of Play

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Thakkar hacking it again

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Morris is the man for May

Top Asian racers line-up for Samui Regatta 2013

Winners emerge from Spring bowls season

Trail runners heading to Pattaya

Local riders take top honors at Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge

Former world heavyweight champ Bowe to make Thailand ring debut

Dolphins left deflated by late Bangkok winner

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