Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Tue, Jang, David, Ooy, Sue, & Kran.

The lanes at PS Bowl must have been more receptive than normal this week as no less than six bowlers had 200 plus games and three of them had two 200 plus games each.
Café Kronborg remains in first place after winning three points from VFW Post 9876. Kran Nielsen was the power for Kronborg with games of 202, 204 and 178 for a 584 series.
In the battle between the numbers two and three teams Semper FI came out on top with a three to one win over Indiana. Dave Dolle bowled a 504 series for Semper FI and La Montgomery had a 515 series for Indiana.
Fourth place Canada won all four points from Green Tree. David Shaw had a 201 game, 539 series and Wade Meyers had a 507 for Canada. Brand bowling as a Pacer had a 542 series.
Bavaria won all four points from Jack Tar with Jang Shaw leading the way with games of 173, 205 and 224 for a 602 series. Ooy Pluemkamon did her best for Jack Tar with a 210 and 200 game and a 576 series but it was not enough.
Brother D won all four points from the Blind team. Sue Murphy bowled a 219 game and 575 series and Tue Pettae had a 200 game and 540 series for Brother D.

Results & Standings may 31 (week 22)
Pos.	Team	Score	Standings
1	Café Kronborg	3-1	54 - 34
2	Semper FI	3 – 1	53 - 35
3	Indiana	1 – 3	51 - 37
4	Canada	4 - 0	50 - 38
5	Bavaria	4 - 0	47 - 41
6	Green Tree	0 - 4	45.5 - 42.5
7	VFW Post 9876	1-3	43 - 45
8	Brother D	4 - 0	42 - 46
9	Jack Tar	0 - 4	39.5 - 48.5
10	Blind	0 - 4	15 - 73

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Results & Standings May 31 (week 19)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Taffy’s bar ‘A’	17	17	0	14	97	34
Dang’s Bar	14	11	3	11	52	22
Legends Darts	16	11	5	10	22	22
Load Out Bar	18	7	11	9	-32	14
Jantha Coffee House	19	6	13	8	-39	12
Results:  Bye (0-0)-(5-1) v Load Out Bar, Legends Darts (7-1)-(2-0) v Jantha Coffee

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings May 31 (week 11)

Division 1
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Shoot Pool	9	8	1	32	0	24
Pook’s Bar	9	6	3	13	0	18
Links Bar	8	5	3	1	1	16
Butchers Arms	8	4	4	-1	1	13
Biggyz Rest ‘A’	9	4	5	-11	1	13
Nicky’s Bar	10	4	6	-2	0	12
Mata Bar	10	4	6	-6	0	12
Sweethearts Bar	8	2	6	-14	2	8
Legends Pool	7	2	5	-12	1	7
Results:  Biggyz Rest ‘A’ 10 v 6 Mata Bar, Legends Pool 10 v 8 Sweethearts Bar, Pook’s Bar 10 v 5 Links Bar, Shoot Pool W v L Bye, The Butchers Arms 5 v 10 Nicky’s Bar
Division 2
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Offshore Bar	10	7	3	21	0	21
Easy R-Con Bar	9	6	3	12	1	19
Old Thai Angle	9	6	3	18	0	18
Irish Rovers	11	5	6	-16	1	16
FCUK Inn	10	5	5	-9	0	15
Tie’s R Us	8	4	4	-1	0	12
Dean’s Bar	9	4	5	-3	0	12
Crazy Eddie’s	8	3	5	-5	1	10
Mai’s Bar	8	1	7	-17	3	6
Results:  Crazy Eddie’s 7 v 10 FCUK Inn, Dean’s Bar 8 v 10 Easy R-Con Bar, Old Thai Angle W v L Bye, Irish Rovers 5 v 10 Offshore Bar, Tie’s R Us P v P Mai’s Bar
Division 3
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Smile Bar	11	11	0	57	0	33
Biggy’z Rest ‘B’	9	7	2	18	1	22
Wet Bar	11	6	5	-6	1	19
The Queen Vic	9	5	4	-4	1	16
Buffalo Jacks	10	5	5	-1	0	15
Rabbi’s Elephant	11	5	6	-18	0	15
The Ranch	7	4	3	-1	0	12
Connections	11	2	9	-45	0	6
Results:  Buffalo Jacks 10 v 5 Connections, Smile Bar 10 v 2 Rabbi’s Elephant, Team Pulled Out L v W The Queen Vic, The Ranch W v L Bye, Wet Bar 10 v 9 Biggy’z Rest ‘B’

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 27 (week 16)

Division 1
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts.
Shoot Pool	15	14	1	66	0	42
Legends Pool	12	8	4	6	1	25
Irish Rovers	13	8	5	19	0	24
Links Bar	12	7	5	7	1	22
Butchers Arms	13	6	7	3	2	20
Pook’s Bar	15	6	9	-20	1	19
Nicky’s Bar	13	6	7	-12	0	18
Sweethearts Bar	13	5	8	-16	1	16
Biggy’z Rest	13	4	9	-19	2	14
Dean’s Bar	15	3	12	-34	1	10
Results:  Legends Pool 10 v 6 Sweethearts Bar, Links Bar 10 v 6 The Irish Rovers, Nicky’s Bar 10 v 6 Biggy’z Rest, Pook’s Bar 10 v 5 Dean’s Bar, The Butchers Arms 9 v 10 Shoot Pool
Division 2
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts.
The Caddyshack	15	12	3	22	0	36
Cheers Bar	13	10	3	17	1	31
Easy R-con Bar	14	10	4	29	0	30
Smile Bar	14	9	5	21	1	28
Wet Bar	14	8	6	-3	1	25
Eor’s Bar	13	6	7	-12	1	19
Mai’s Bar	11	6	5	-1	0	18
Offshore Bar	13	5	8	-19	1	16
Rabbi’s Elephant	13	1	12	-54	0	3
Results:  Mai’s Bar 10 v 8 Wet Bar, Offshore Bar P v P Eor’s, Rabbi’s Elephant 4 v 10 Easy R-Con Bar, Smile Bar 8 v 10 Cheers Bar, The Caddyshack W v L Team Pulled Out

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Results & Standings May 27 (week 13)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Legends Darts	13	12	1	13	81	24
Dang’s Bar	12	9	3	6	14	18
Load Out Bar	14	7	7	6	-6	14
Double Top Bar	13	6	7	6	7	12
Irish Rovers	13	3	10	5	-37	6
Jantha Coffee House	13	2	11	1	-59	4
Results:  Jantha Coffee (2-0)-(7-1) v Double Top Bar, Legends Darts (4-1)-(5-0) v Dang’s Bar, Load Out Bar (7-1)-(2-0) v The Irish Rovers

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 28 (week 3)

Team	P	W	L	B/legs	Pts.
W. Tankies	3	3	0	3	6
Mee Chew Sports Bar	3	3	0	2	6
I-Rovers	3	3	0	2	6
Shoot Pool Roxy	3	3	0	2	6
Jantha Coffee House	3	2	1	2	4
Londoner	3	2	1	2	4
Crazy Eddies	3	1	2	1	2
Scandalic	3	1	2	1	2
Yates Bar	3	1	2	1	2
Cum On Inn	3	1	2	1	2
Buffalo Jack’s	3	1	2	1	2
Nervous Wreck	3	0	3	2	0
Mai’s Bar	3	0	3	1	0
Shoot Pool	3	0	3	0	0
Results:  Buffalo Jack’s (7-0)-(2-1) v Nervous Wreck, I-Rovers (9-1)-(4-0) v Yates Bar, Jantha Coffee House (6-1)-(5-0) v Shoot Pool, Londoner (7-1)-(3-0) v Scandalic, Mai’s Bar (2-0)-(5-1) v Mee Chew Sports Bar, Shoot Pool Roxy (5-0)-(1-1) v Cum On Inn, W. Tankies (8-1)-(4-0) v Crazy Eddies

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 29 (week 5)

Team	P	W	L	Bonus	Diff.	Pts.
Legends Sports Bar	5	4	1	3	29	8
Mee Chew Sports Bar	5	4	1	4	21	8
W. Tankies	5	4	1	3	19	8
Yates Bar	5	3	2	4	-5	6
Scandalic	5	2	3	3	1	4
I-Rovers	5	2	3	2	-15	4
Mai’s bar	5	1	4	1	-21	2
Jantha Coffee House	5	0	5	0	-29	0
Results:  Jantha Coffee House (3-0)-(6-1) v Yates Bar, Legends Sports Bar (4-0)-(5-1) v Mee Chew Sports Bar, Scandalic (3-0)-(6-1) v Mai’s Bar, W. Tankies (4-0)-(5-1) v I-Rovers

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 27 (week 13)

Division 1
Team	Played	Won	Lost	For	Agst	Diff.	Pts.
Phimai Geordie	13	11	2	131	64	67	35
San Snack Bar	12	10	2	115	65	50	32
Shoot Pool	12	10	2	107	73	34	32
Joy’s Paradise	13	8	5	99	96	3	29
Biggy’z Rest	13	7	6	106	89	17	27
Crazy Eddie’s	13	6	7	104	91	13	25
KiK Bar	13	5	8	96	99	-3	23
Connections	13	5	8	72	123	-51	23
Parrot Inn	12	3	8	72	108	-36	20
Buffalo Jack’s	11	4	7	75	90	-15	19
Rising Sun	13	3	10	70	125	-55	19
Mee Chew	12	2	10	78	102	-24	16
Results:  Biggy’z Rest 5 v 10 Shoot Pool, Joy’s Paradise 8 v 7 KiK Bar, Crazy Eddie’s 13 v 2 Buffalo Jack’s, Connections 8 v 7 Rising Sun, Parrot Inn 9 v 6 Mee Chew, San Snack Bar 11 v 4 Phimai Geordie

Wayco wins Growling Swan Monthly Mug

PSC golf from The Growling Swan

Max Bracegirdle, Wes Starr, Peter Grey, Kev Waycott & Paul Hack.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, May 27, Treasure Hill – Stableford
We had a good “low season” group of 20 signed up for the day’s event at Treasure Hill and we assembled at The Growling Swan in readiness for the trip to play this challenging layout.
We welcomed back Paul Sharples from Oman, Russell Goldsworthy From Perth, Western Australia, Michael Healey from Ireland and regular visitor Bob Akapita from Gove in the Northern Territory of Australia.
Sadly it was time to say farewell to two of our “permanents”, Ken & Wendy Bernek who are returning home to Detroit, Michigan due to domestic issues. They will be sorely missed as they have hardly missed a game since we started and Ken’s assistance has been invaluable to me in the time he has been with us. They promise to return in the future so Bon Voyage dear friends and thanks again.
Everyone was on time which enabled our 2 minivans to depart five minutes early at 8.25 am and we headed off in the Monday morning traffic with a reasonably good run up 331. We arrived at the golf course 51 minutes later where there were hardly any cars in the car park which indicated a fairly prompt start to our round after checking in & preparation.

Sal Brizzi, Sandy Leiper & Geri Crilly.

We were, as expected, invited to tee off at our leisure with no-one to be seen ahead and we sent our first four-ball away 15 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.45 a.m. in hot and steamy conditions. It must be said that this golf course is in superb condition including the well prepared greens although the fairway grass is different to most courses and some of the short rough demands respect.
We took our time in the oppressive heat and regularly stocked up with drinks, as you can on this course with plenty of drink stations and after enjoying the round and the company we completed the round in fours and twenty minutes.
We were able to have 2 Grades with three podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 12 and B Grade for 13 and over. There were rewards for nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
As usual the golf course got the better of most but despite being “taken by the crocodile” it was Sal Brizzi who had the best round of the day by far and won the A Grade section with a fine 39 points. In second place came your writer, Peter Blackburn with a modest 34 points and Mike Allidi finished third with 33 points.
Irishman Geri Crilly got the shock of his life when announced as the winner of B Grade with 32 points, 2 points ahead of Ken Hole in second place and Ebrahim’s 28 points was good enough to secure third spot.
A Flight (0-12)
1st Sal Brizzi (7) 39pts
2nd Peter Blackburn (11) 34pts
3rd Mike Allidi (2) 33pts
B Flight (13+)
1st Geri Crilly (27) 32pts
2nd Ken Hole (16) 30pts
3rd Ebrahim (14) 28pts
Near Pins: 2nd – Paul Sharples, 6th – Sal Brizzi, 13th – Russell Goldsworthy, 17th – Ken Hole
Long Putts: 9th – Wendy Bernek, 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 won by Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper who naturally accepted the award in fine spirit. Big Ken “let’s hear it for” Bernek was kind enough to parade Deefa the Dog for one last time for a while and collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya.
Back at the bar afterwards the beer was Aussie cold as ever and we once again discussed the upcoming Growling Swan First Anniversary tournament at Crystal Bay on Monday, June 10th. It will be a four-ball Stableford event with a random draw pairing an A Grade golfer with a B Grade golfer, the draw to be done at the course prior to commencement of play. The entry fee is 500 baht which will include terrific prizes and a sumptuous meal back at The Growling Swan where the presentations will be held. The sign-up sheet is on the board at The Growling Swan and although we have initially 32 spots we can accommodate more if required.
Thursday, May 30, Khao Kheow A & C –Monthly Mug/Stroke
As the saying goes “it’s that time of the month again” and the popular Khao Kheow was the venue for our 12th Monthly Mug where we get to count all our shots as we compete for this coveted award. Several late withdrawals were understandable as one of our regular visitors, Tony Alcorn, suffered a heart attack in the early hours of the morning and was taken by friends to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya where he currently is (Friday morning) and at the time of writing is doing OK. Our prayers are with him and we are all wishing him a speedy recovery.
It left 21 starters for the event and as we assembled at the GS we welcomed back Peter Starr & his son Wesley from Cairns in Queensland, Australia, Ian Masterson from Ireland and local resident Mark West playing with us for the first time. It was once more time to farewell Bob Akapita who is returning to work in Gove in the Northern Territory of Australia.
With everyone punctual we headed off in 2 minivans right on time at 8.30 a.m. and arrived at Khao Kheow just 42 minutes later to find a reasonable amount of activity. With the B nine currently closed for renovations it was A & B to be played and our first four-ball got away 15 minutes ahead of our scheduled 10.00 a.m. tee time and in hot & steamy conditions we proceeded with regular glances upwards as the dark rain clouds were hovering and we were convinced that we were going to be interrupted by the weather very soon.
“Oh ye of little faith” I pronounced & sure enough, after 17 drops of rain the weather cleared and we continued, although the humidity was extremely high making the going tough for some (myself in particular). An unfortunate incident on the fairway of A9 caused me to have a change of caddy at the half way mark after she was hit in the knee by an errant golf ball from one of our group and reinforced the need for players to keep behind the golfer who is playing the shot. I should have known better!
We slowed down somewhat during the second nine and, mainly due to the conditions and the fact that we were playing stroke and the round was completed in the much slower than normal time of four hours & forty five minutes. It had been an eventful and enjoyable round of golf with good company on a golf course that is in excellent condition.
In addition to the Monthly Mug Winner we were able to have 2 Grades with three podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 18 and B Grade for 19 and over. We had nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the A9 & C9 greens.
Kev Waycott has been playing with us more frequently over the past few weeks so it was great to see him take out this month’s Mug with a fine score of net 69. The winner of A Grade was last month’s Mug winner Paul “Hacky” Hack who had a net 71 with Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei finishing second with net 74. Newcomer Mark West rounded off the A Grade podium with his net 76.
Max “Corsets” Bracegirdle was a clear winner in the B Grade with a creditable net 72, a huge 8 shots better than Geri Crilly in second spot and the flabbergasted Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper humbly accepted his reward for third place after his net 86.
Monthly Mug
1st Kevin Waycott (10) net 69
A Flight (0-18)
1st Paul Hack (11) net 71
2nd Alain Taddei (16) net 744
3rd Mark West (15) net 76
B Flight (19+)
1st Max Bracegirdle (27) net 72
2nd Geri Crilly (27) net 800
3rd Sandy Leiper (34) net 86
Near Pins: A3 – Peter Blackburn, A5 – Takeshi Hakozaki, C3 – Paul Hack, C8 – Kevin Waycott
Long Putts: A9 – Paul Hack, C9 – Kevin Waycott
The Growling Swan NAGA Award was won by the Wes Starr who humbly accepted the honour and wore the cap briefly in the bar. Max Bracegirdle kindly took Deefa for the usual walk and collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan golfers.
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].  

Heddle hits the heights at Plantation

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

General Jack (2nd left) presents the winning monthly trophy to Sel Wegner (left), with Paul Bourke and Steve Milne looking on.

Monday, May 27, Burapha - Stableford
At Burapha today there was 23 golfers playing off the Blues on A & B. The weather was ideal, with a gentle breeze to keep us cool, and many were expectant of a decent score.
For me it was a nice change to play at Burapha as I usually play at Khao Kheow and I was impressed with the condition of the course; my only criticism was that the sand in the bunkers was too soft and the ball would often plug – I guess I should have stayed out of them!
Sel is at last sorting out his game and it will be no surprise if his handicap starts to come tumbling down. He’s very useful off a 13 mark and demonstrated it today with the top score of 38pts to win Div A by one from NY Steve, with playing partner Rosco back in third on 35.

Ian Heddle – gross 69 at Emerald.

Div B players didn’t score so well, maybe the length from the blue tees getting the better of them, but the leader of the pack was Jimmy Little with 34pts who only beat a relative newcomer to the game, Chris Smart, on count back. That was Chris’s last game before heading off to work for a month but that performance is sure to stay in his mind until he returns. Well done Chris!
I was absolutely delighted to make the third spot, particularly as I rarely play here.
There were two ‘2’s from Ian Heddle (A6) and Paul Bourke (B8).
Div A (0-16)
1st Sel Wegner (13) 38pts
2nd Steve Poznanski (12) 37pts
3rd Rosco Langoulant (14) 35pts
Div B (17+)
1st Jimmy Little (19) 34pts
2nd Chris Smart (36) 34pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (22) 32pts

Wednesday, May 29, Siam Plantation – Stableford

Back at Siam Plantation after an absence of a couple of weeks due to the BMW qualifying tournament being hosted here. Only a small field of nine turned out and those who played with Ian Heddle were treated to a wonderful display of golf with Ian making the turn with a gross 32, yes that’s right 4 under par. He birdied the 10th to go 5 under, before parring the 11th, 12th, 13th & 14th then unfortunately dropped shots at the par-three 15th & par-four 17th to finish with 69. Great round Ian!
Rosco showed his delight to be back here with a fine 39pts to take second, with Joe taking the final podium place with 31.
Finally, welcome to Mana Yuanjit, Bill Watkins & Peter Daff; for the record we played the A & C nines and there were two ‘2’s from Ian Heddle & Joe Mooneyham.
1st Ian Heddle (2) 41pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (14) 39pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (15) 31pts

Wednesday, May 29, The Emerald - Stableford

It is difficult to comprehend the number of times one can try to book this course, say for 10 a.m., and get told that the first available time is 10.24, then your players arrive at around 9.30 and there’s nobody on the course. However, despite the wait, the 10 guys here had a good day out, particularly for Andy Makara who won the day with 39pts and got the only ‘2’ (7th hole). John O’Keefe was second with 37 and Ken Hole, who went to Green Valley first by mistake, came in third with 36.
1st Andy Makara (26) 39pts
2nd John O’Keefe (16) 37pts
3rd Ken Hole (16) 36pts

Friday, May 31, Green Valley - Stableford

The last day of the month, so it was monthly medal time with a field of 25 at the regular Friday course, which was once again in fine condition and was bound to attract some good scoring.
The start sheet showed a perfect 24 players giving us six four-balls until an unshaven Dennis Pelly turned up - he hadn’t put his name down but blamed Sugar and Muzza for not doing it for him; pretty typical for Dennis! So he was sent to the back to make up a five-ball and sincere apologies to the other four players. Five-balls are not our policy but it was too late to re-jig everybody.
Sel Wegner started this week with a win at Burapha and completed it with a fine win here, a net 66, to lift the monthly trophy, this month sponsored by the Outback. He (Sel) was one over gross after 10 holes, then a nasty 9 on the par 5 eleventh kind of spoilt the card but he held his nerve to finish strongly.
Jack Butler was second with a net 68, beating low gross winner Paul Bourke on count back, and the other three podium places were filled by Steve Milne, ‘Race2Bkk’ leader Murray Hart and Tim Knight all on 71.
There were only two ‘2’s from Sugar Ray (9th) and Paul Greenaway (12th).
1st Sel Wegner (13) net 66
2nd Jack Butler (12) net 68
3rd Paul Bourke (9) net 68
4th Steve Milne (15) net 71
5th Murray Hart (14) net 71
6th Tim Knight (22) net 71
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

Max takes monthly honours on count back

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook

Tuesday, May 28, Green Valley – Stableford

This is one of the courses that is at the top of the pyramid. I know there are golfing venues that cost more, even at this outlet, but for a fine day out this course is as good as any.
I have played it since the present 6th hole was the first, and we used to clip-clop down the road from the old clubhouse in real spikes. How things change and now the old first that used to be lined with, I believe lemon grass, is halfway around, or so. I also miss the old par 5 that is now the par 4 second hole. That was a monster and a real test over water for the good players.

Dick Warberg (right) presents the MBMG Group Golfer Of The Month award to Max Bracegirdle.

Still, the course beckoned and we started off with a full seven groups, many for this time of the year, and were underway on time. The course was well presented and the weather was not too bad except that we had a bit of wind. The fairways were in quite condition and the greens fast and true.
We got around in good time however some of the later groups tended to struggle in the heat. Still, back in the changing room it was a pleasure to partake of a nice shower. Refreshed, it was then time to try out one of the fine restaurants that are in this venue.
Back at Bert’s not only were the players awaiting the winner but it was also time for the MBMG Group Golfer of the Month, and the scores were as usual close and the day’s results would determine the result.
In the A Flight, Dick Warberg triumphed with a fine 39 points ahead of a count back on 37 points that saw Max Scott in second and Mark West in third. In the B Flight we had a count back for the winner on 38 points which was won by Max Bracegirdle ahead of Derek Brook. In third was Barry Elphick with 37 points.
The winning of the B Flight count back proved to be the final domino falling and Max Bracegirdle, by the count back, became the MBMG Golfer of the Month. Well done Max!
Near Pins: John Hackett, Bryan Parish, Mashi, Max Scott, Ray White, T.E. Oreton, John Costello.

Friday, May 31, Mountain Shadow – Stableford

We had a good turnout for a Friday, which was not surprising as most of our group like playing this course. It once had a ferocious reputation and I can remember taking groups here when the winning score was less than 30 points, but I think that the slowing down of the greens have made the course much more playable. Plus of course they have quite a good rate here at the present. This probably is why the course always seems to be full on the days we go.

Bob Watson and Mike O’Brien.

On this day, standing on the first tee, all looked fair and the groups immediately in front of us were playing off the white tees, so we expected to get around quite quickly. However, with six-balls and five-balls in front of us the day turned into a bit of a crawl with constant hold-ups. On most par 3’s we had two or three groups waiting. Still, it gave us time to have a break at the rest stops and smell the roses as we went around. Apart that is that there were no roses.
The course itself is in quite good condition, if a bit bare, so the ball ran well on the fairways and in the rough it was usually possible to get your club on the ball. The greens, as said, have been slowed down but are still very tricky and difficult to read a line on. Also some of the holes were very ragged and had obviously not been changed for some time. But all in all it was a very enjoyable round, even if I couldn’t hit the ball.
As a sister course to Crystal Bay, the layout here and clubhouse have seen better days, but the food in the restaurant is not too bad, and remarkably well priced. On the table is a sign for four specials all well priced and very good value, also very tasty. A couple of us tried the special and found it excellent.
Back at Bert’s it was soon time for the results and the normal suspects were well to the fore. In the A Flight the winner with 35 points was the ‘Golfer’ Bob Watson with one of his fine rounds and 35 points, a tough day. In second place was Mark West with 34 points and in third was Ted Morris with 32 points.
In the B Flight we had the best score when Mike O’Brien won with 37 points, good round Mike. In second was Dick Warberg playing good golf again with 32 points on count back over Barry Oats in third.
Great day and of course the ‘cold ones’ flowed. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Mike O’Brien, Ted Morris, Ray White, Steve Little

Ed and John share the spoils

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, May 26, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Ed Wyckoff (11) 40pts
2nd Andy Kellaher (9) 39pts
3rd Mark West (15) 38pts
B Flight
1st John O’Keefe (16) 40pts
2nd Lou Szigligeti (17) 39pts
3rd Jean LaRoche (18) 39pts
Near Pins: No 4 Thierry Petrement, No 9 Thierry Petrement, No 12 Ian Halfpenny, No 16 Ed Wyckoff.
Ed ‘our man in the White house’ Wyckoff and John O’Keefe were co-men of the match as they both posted joint best scores of the day 40 points in A Flight and B Flight respectively. Ed was followed in the senior flight by the Andy ‘red hot’ Kellaher who came in with a very respectful 39 points. Mark West was a further stroke back as he picked up the bronze.

Sunday winners Ed Wyckoff and John O’Keefe.

John was followed in by a trio of players all with solid 39 point hauls, headed by the Lou the pied piper of Oz, Jean LaRoche and Peter ‘Don O’corleone’ Henshaw. Peter decided to sit this one out.
Back at the Ranch, The Donkey thought that he had carded the only ‘2’ of the day, but that changed with the arrival to the presentation of Mr. Gerry Roche after a second look at the score cards the Donkey had to present Gerry with half the ‘2’s loot, much to the amusement of the lads.
Tuesday, May 28, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Terry Mangan (14) 41pts
2nd JP Maffray (14) 40pts
3rd Yui Bietry (14) 38pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (18) 34pts
2nd John Heaney (19) 34pts
3rd Colm O’Donovan (19) 33pts
It was a tough day for the junior flight at Green Valley today, as the competitors could do no better than the Donkey’s 34 points. Irishman John Heaney did match the Donkey’s output but, like so many before him, he failed in the resulting count back. The calculator was needed again as Ireland’s Colm O’Donovan, Pierre ‘the comic’ Bietry and Lou ‘the pied piper of oz’ went to a three way count back the luck of the Irish prevailing. Pierre and Lou were left at the bar telling each other jokes.
The guys who can actually play the game, the A Flighters, put two players on the podium that had 40 points or more. Terry ‘pork chop’ Mangan brought home the bacon with a man of the match 41 points. John Haney picked up the silver a point adrift as Yui Bietry took third a further two back.
JP Maffray (a brace), Peter Hynard, Alan Wilkinson, Thierry Petrement and Danny Senko shared the 2’s pot.

Wednesday, May 29, Burapha A & B - Stableford
A Flight
1st Lou Szigligeti (17) 46pts
2nd Freddy Starbeck (15) 41pts
3rd Danny Senko ((6) 36pts
B Flight
1st Brian Cooper (25) 37pts
2nd Rod Brown (19) 37pts
3rd Jim Reid (26) 34pts
It was back to Burapha were once again the unlikely pairing of A & B were the task at hand. Lou ‘the pied piper of Oz showed that girth wasn’t a requirement as playing off his old 17 handicap he used his supple power and innate talent to edge Freddy Star trek by five points. The balance of the podium was filled by Danny Senko with a steady even par round.
In a contrast of fortunes, Brian ‘mini’ Copper saw a gap as he put a successful count back on Rod Brown to take the top place in B Flight as both had very useful 37 point hauls. Jim ‘how’s the world treating you’ Ried edged a resurgent Esara Duangsri on a count back to fill the flight, both locked on 34 points.
Lou Zig Zag and Danny Senko split the 2’s pot.

Friday, May 31, Greenwood – Stableford

Today’s game was abandoned after torrential rain hit the course after approximately one and a half hours play. There were murmurings in the drinks stop that a little rain never hurt anybody but that changed when a lightning bolt hit the drinks stop. Fair play to the Greenwood management as rain checks was issued including the use of golf carts.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya land Soi 1, Beach Rd Soi13/13 near Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.

‘Dabber’ takes out 2nd Annual Hoser Memorial

Winner Mike Dabanovich (left) with runner-up Mark Campbell.

On Friday May 31, the Eastern Star Country Club & Resort hosted the 2nd Annual Hoser Memorial Golf Tournament. Fifteen players showed up to play this modified stableford competition where each player started off with a zero handicap and was awarded 1 stroke for every beer or mixed drink consumed during the round.
As the refreshment cart made the rounds to each group, re-stocking the players with handicaps, a message came to Matt Millar from Hoser’s dad Art, back home in Canada, wishing us all the best and thanking us for keeping the Hoser Memorial tradition going.

Best dressed golfers Scar and Mats are flanked by Ray and Ken.

As the handicaps grew, play continued on at a good pace with some very fine shots from Bobby Taylor and Ray Lepard on the par-3 holes, then with 4 holes left to play the rains came to slow things down.
Once all the players were finished and the score cards checked, this year’s winner was declared as Mike “Dabber” Dabanovich with 29 points playing off an 8 handicap, with Mark Campbell coming in second with 25 points off a 1 handicap for the day. The “best dressed” players of the day award went to Bobby “Scar” Taylor and Mats Mueller.
Most of the players and non-players then headed back to The Haven for the trophy presentation, a fine meal and the famous Hoser Shake, or in some cases more than one Hoser Shake.
Thanks to Eastern Star and The Haven for hosting this year’s tournament and also to Wild Bill for his help at the course.

Ray Lepard celebrates his bridie putt.

Burnie wins back-to-back

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, May 27, Plutaluang - Stableford

Every two or three rounds here we switch to the East and South courses here, which we were scheduled to play today, but with a 12.00 a.m. shotgun start already arranged for 86 persons we teed off at 9.30 on the West course. A reasonable turnouts for this time of the year with 27 players out today with the equal cut at 6-20, 13 cards and 21 plus, 14 cards in division 2.

Kari Kuparinen & Burnie Sinclair.

The weather over the past two weeks has been ridiculously hot and humid and it remained the same today with a slight cloud covering over a few of the holes and yet again there were some very weary players returning to the clubhouse.
Mr. Grumpy, alias Bryan Rought returned the best score of the day to win division 1 with 39 points after scoring 23 on the front nine and 16 on the North. Pete Sumner on 35 was in second and Billy Fitzgerald took third after beating Lindsay Phillips, Kari Aarnio, and William Chang on a 19/18/18/15 back-nine count back, all on 34 points.
After two months in the doldrums ‘Countback’ Burnie’s scores have been improving over the past week or so and he came in with 36 points today to win division 2, beating Gordon Everingham and Lee Casey on a 19/16/14 count back.
Near pins went to Billy Fitzgerald, Lindsay Phillips, Pete Sumner (2), Kari Aarnio, Mark Conway, Glenn King and Burnie Sinclair.
Lindsay Phillips birdied the 6th on the North course for the only ‘2’ in division 1 while a rollover ensued in division 2 to Crystal Bay on Wednesday.

Wednesday, May 29, Crystal Bay - Stableford

The same number of players as of Monday with a different cut in the two divisions and as we arrived we were allocated the C and A courses. There was a strong cloud coverage but the heat still remained here for all eighteen holes.
Playing off 6, Kari Kuparinen was laughing all the way to the bank as he won with 41 points and there were tears in the eyes of Marty Rock who came in second with 39, while Jerry Sweetnam beat Pete Sumner into third place on a 18/16 count back, both on 38.
After his doldrums update which I mentioned on Monday, Burnie Sinclair won division 2 again today, this time with 40 points. Russell Benson the microlight flier came in second on 39 points after beating Gordon Everingham on a 23 /18 back-nine count back.
Near pins were claimed by Kari Kuparinen (2), Neville Sccurell, Chris Voller, Kari Aarnio, Russell Benson, Colin James and Richard Kings.
Chris Voller birdied C4 and Marty Rock C7 to split the ‘2’s pot in division 1 while Kari Aarnio and Russell Benson both got ‘2’s on the 8th on the A course to share the purse.

Friday, May 31, Eastern Star - Stableford

There were heavy clouds overlooking the coast as we drove down to Eastern Star and with the rain here lately in Jomtien who knew what the day would bring?
Division 1 today was for handicaps 5-14 and Bill Bertram returned the best score of the day, winning with 36 points. Chris Voller took second place three points behind after winning a count back over Pete Sumner 11/10 on the back, and Jerry Sweetnam lost out after only scoring 15 on the last nine holes.
In the frame yet again, Rod Howett topped division 2 with 35 points and it was great to see the return of Ya Riley (she is still playing off the white tees) and today she came in second with 31 points, beating the Irish boy Frank Kelly on a 17/13 back-nine count back.
There was a heavy shower after nine holes but this only lasted 15 or 20 minutes with a light drizzle for the next ten minutes but no problems.
Four four-balls in front of our first group were so slow we recorded a round of four and three quarter hours which is unheard of on a Friday here.
Near pins went to Sandy Lundie (2), Jerry Sweetnam, Chris Voller, Frank Kelly, Richard Kings and Ian Plummer.
Sandy Lundie, Jerry Sweetnam and Chris Voller birdied the 3rd and the 13th to divide the ‘2’s purse in division 1, while in division 2 with his last game with us before he returning to Ireland for 3 months, Frank Kelly notched the only ‘2’ on the 3rd hole to win a rollover pot.
It was bon voyage to Kari Aarnio and Kai for their trip back to Finland.

Fernandez has a field day at Burapha

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
There are some weeks when life tends to kick you where it hurts and believe me I have just had one of those weeks. A multitude of things have gone wrong this past week, starting on Monday when I went to change a large sum of currency and then found out three days later the exchange rate had improved by two baht, the biggest rise all year. Then by the end of the week my golf game had completely deserted me to the point where it may never recover and left me feeling desperate. If I owned a cat I would probably have gone home and kicked it. Luckily for some people they had a good week.

Ted Senior.

On Monday 27th May at Bangpra, Ted Senior (15) got his week off to the best of starts by shooting 39pts and winning the competition by four shots. Roger Wilkinson (15) trailed in those four shots behind which was still good enough to take second place. Fergus Brennan (12), whose own golf game has seen a lot of highs and lows of late, took third place with 34pts.
On Wednesday 29th May the TRGG faithful headed off to do battle with Burapha (B and D courses). Gerry Fernandez (10) must have stepped in something pretty special when he woke up that morning because boy did he come up smelling of roses. He took the course and the opposition apart by shooting 42pts, which was a full eleven points better than Robert Cannon (20) on 31 in second place. Derek Thorogood (16) made it into third place with 30pts.

John Baxter.

On Thursday 30th May it was off on our weekly visit to Phoenix (Mountain/Ocean courses). Despite being low season there were enough players for two divisions. Div. 1 was up to 14 handicap and Div.2 for 15 handicap and above. Now as I have said before, the ladies get a big advantage playing at Phoenix as it is a known fact that on some holes it is a 10 baht taxi ride between the men’s tee and the ladies’ tee. So it was no big surprise to find two of our ladies finish in the top three places of Division 1.
There was an unfounded rumour that the winner John Baxter (14), who shot 37pts, was seen wearing a skirt earlier in the day. The delightful Mod Chaviraksa (12) finished second on 34pts and the equally divine Tewin Poopay Lamthong (10) took third place with 33.
The riff-raff making up Division 2 were headed by Roger Wilkinson (15), shooting an excellent 38pts. Billy Allan (15) made second place with 35pts and the Welsh wizard and ladies man extraordinaire Alun Webber (19) finished third on 29pts.
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week!

Esara streets ahead at Bangpra

PSC golf from Café Kronborg

Monday, May 27, Bangpra - Stableford
Bangpra and the monkeys was the challenge for today so up Route 7 for 40 minutes, a swift check-in and we were off the first tee 40 minutes early under sunny skies and very steamy conditions.
The course on the day was in very fine condition and the monkeys were on holiday with only a handful on duty. We moved right along the whole round and were finished in just a tad over 4 hours - good for Bangpra.
Only 1 flight today and Esara Duangsri was the winner with 42 points ahead of Jon Haugen in second on 31 and Oddur Olafsson taking third with 28.
1st Esara Duangsri (36) 42pts
2nd Jon Haugen (10) 31pts
3rd Oddur Olafsson (12) 28pts

Golfnutter: The Organiser’s Lot

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 www.golfnutter.wordpress.com. 
Fancy being a golf organiser, running golf out of a bar from a Pattaya sois?
It’s hardly rocket science after all – running golf two or three days a week for a bunch of expats and visitors. What, maybe up to twenty per day in low-season, and twice that number in high-season – be a doddle, surely. It would hardly tax an organised and logical mind. What can possibly go wrong?
TIT – just about everything.
Having an organised and logical mind – a Farang version – is absolutely useless in an environment where a Farang’s understanding of logic or reason simply does not apply.
Leaving aside “minor” issues such as how to attract and retain customers in a dwindling market, one of your main duties will be to negotiate with Thai management at the various courses you hope to play. This includes securing agreement on green-fee rate (which may depend upon the number of your playing group), time your first group will tee-off, and the understanding that all your playing groups play in an uninterrupted sequence. This “agreement” will normally be reached about two months in advance, prompting you to enter it into your published schedule.
That you actually get to play under the conditions negotiated, on the day you booked, at the price you “agreed” with the number you naively promised, will have nothing to do with your organising skills, no matter how honed. Rather, it will all depend on Buddha, the weather and whatever golfing spirit is in ascendency on the day – TIT.
And it doesn’t stop there. Assume you have booked five groups of four – twenty players – just the minimum number to secure the green-fee discount promised. As all your golfers bar four require transport, you organise two mini-vans at a cost of 2,000 baht each. Come departure time however, and you have two no-shows – a common enough occurrence, particularly during high-season. With each golfer paying 250 baht transport fee, that’s a shortfall of 500 baht, which needs to come out of your pocket. Ah well, the day can only get better.
Wrong.
Upon arrival, reception staff reminds you that the green-fee discount was dependent upon a minimum number of twenty, which you haven’t mustered. Each member of your group will be required to pay the extra 500 baht green-fee. One glance at the queue behind is sufficient to tell you they’re not happy campers.
With some confidence, you relate the story regarding how many years your group has supported this golf course. You also stress that the last six times you have played at this course, your numbers averaged 30 – way in excess of the 20 minimum. Surely logic suggests the minimum number be based on averages, or aggregates? And what about the value of future support, especially during low season, when reason implies the course will need all the support they can get.
Nothing in your previous life has taught you how to debate with the blank stare that is likely to greet such argument. It is about here that some organisers lose it.
Your choice is either to accept the increased fees, knowing that this precedent will apply forever, or to take your group to another course – a course that can accommodate you, and at the right price. The additional costs of getting there will, naturally, depend upon the goodwill of the mini-van drivers. And remember, your customers have already paid for their transport.
When finally you get your first group to the tee, the complaints start – mainly from those who object to playing way down the starting order. Due to the two no-shows, your first two groups are three-balls. It is within these groups you “hide” your two notoriously slow players – one in each. But despite your well-intentioned efforts, the two lead groups still hold up the rest of the field – on every hole.
Due to the time taken to play the first nine holes, or not, as it’s impossible to tell, come the turn and the starter inserts two five-balls, immediately in front of your first four-ball – your third group. One look tells you they are beginners.
It’s 6.00 p.m. when you are finally deposited back at your home bar. After a quick presentation, which sees all the prize money awarded to players in the first two groups, you sit back and reflect on your day. It’s about now that more complaints arise – ranging from slow play to preferred playing partners, and claims that other golf venues seem to get cheaper green-fees than yours despite playing at better courses.
It is then you realise what today’s round of golf really cost, and it can’t be counted in purely financial terms. The biggest loss was undoubtedly your game of golf.
And this hasn’t covered the half of it. Spare your organiser a thought, or three.
Happy golfing,
Golfnutter

Graham wraps up monthly award

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Barry Murnin made a winning return at Pattana.

Monday, May 27, Bangprakong - Stableford
It was a disappointing trip to Bangprakong today as we found the course to be well below its normally excellent condition. We were told that the large areas of damaged turf on the fairways had been caused by water damage, which seems hard to believe, but in any case, it’s clearly going to be quite some time before they are back to their previous standard.
Similarly the greens were recovering from recent coring and were quite a lot slower than normal, so the general consensus after the game was that the longer journey isn’t justified at present, and we’ll be giving this course a miss for a while.
John Graham started the round in excellent fashion, single putting the first four greens (collecting back to back birdies in the process), but unfortunately faded a little on the back nine, leaving the field wide open for Reg Smart, who romped home with 41 points. Tony Robbins finished in third place and also collected two near pin prizes on the difficult par threes.
John Graham’s second place finish gave him an unassailable lead in the Golfer of the Month competition and if he can win the remaining two games he will achieve the maximum 60 point score (i.e. six wins in the month) for the first time in Bunker Boys history.
1st Reg Smart (29) 41pts
2nd John Graham (10) 38pts
3rd Tony Robbins (14) 36pts
Near Pins: John Graham and Tony Robbins (2).
Wednesday, May 29, Pattana B & C – Stableford
Faced with the prospect of starting on the daunting first hole on the B course, we elected to play off the shorter yellow tees today. This hole must be the hardest starting hole in the Pattaya area, with water all the way down both sides of the fairway, and in front of the elevated green.
The course was in good shape and the greens were running true, but some players commented that they were slower than normal, particularly when putting against the grain. Perhaps the main criticism of the course is that some of the bunkers have exceptionally long and thick grass on the faces, and yours truly came unstuck with an impossible lie in the face of the greenside bunker on hole C1, duly resulting in a blob.
A thunder storm threatened briefly half way through the round, but eventually passed us by, without shedding a single drop of rain.
The 2011 Bunker Boys champion Barry Murnin re-found his form, in only his second game back following a nine month break in the States, and won the honours by four clear points ahead of Geoff Parker.
There was some discussion over the free glass of beer provided in the clubhouse, about the merits of playing off the shorter tees, particularly regarding the par 5 third hole on the C course which becomes a comfortable par 4 for the longer hitters.
1st Barry Murnin (14) 38pts
2nd Geoff Parker (15) 34pts
3rd Steve Durey (17) 33pts
Near Pins: Barry Murnin, Tony Robbins and Geoff Parker.
Friday, May 31, Greenwood C & A – Medal
The weather was fine and bright as we set off from The Ranch, but the clouds began to gather as we headed up the 331. Predictably, just as we walked to the first tee, we felt the first drops of rain, and we were forced to wait for 15 minutes as a relatively innocuous shower passed by. Unfortunately this was only a small taste of things to come, and as the first group reached the second green, a huge bolt of lightning struck nearby. John Graham actually felt a charge of electricity through his putter, other players in the group felt the hair on their arms stand up, and my caddie made a spectacular nosedive onto the fairway!
As the storm closed in, all the players and caddies made a dash to the drinks station on the fourth tee and huddled down as the lightning began to crash all around us. Unusually for Thailand, the storm continued unabated for two hours, eventually forcing us to admit that no play was going to be possible, and we were ferried back to the clubhouse in transport provided by the golf club.
Greenwood is one of the few local courses that still maintains a rain-check policy, and we received a full refund of the green fee and buggy costs, helping to soften the blow of losing a day’s golf.
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. 

Khao Kheow gives up good scores

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Tuesday, May 28, Mt. Shadow - Stableford
First to Tuesday when we travelled to Mountain Shadow and played from the blue tees at a bit over 6,100 yards, still on the shorter side, even for Pattaya regulars.
Colin Quinlan (9) continued his good form to post a solid 35 points, edging the in-form Jonathan Pratt (15) into second with an easy 33 points. Near Pins were also Colin’s strong point, collecting 2 while Brian also got amongst them.

Colin Quinlan.

Thursday, May 30, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Jonathan Pratt (15) tamed the beast known as Khao Kheow, where we played from the yellow tees on the A & C combination, while the B course is renovated. With over half the players in today’s field single handicappers, it was Jonathan (15) who showed the way with a strong 41 points, ahead of Dave Stockman (4) who showed some fine form of his own to sign for 38 points.
Scores today were very good with players down to 5th spot recording 35 points or more. Near pins were spread around between Jonathan, Joel, Jeff & Dave, the latter 2 being close enough to make just about tap in birdie 2s.
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!

Kristinn justs get better & better

Phoenix Members Golf Society

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

Mike Gerrard
Yes folks, as usual when someone is on a roll it just seems to get better and better. However, enjoy it whilst you can because this game will soon get up and kick you in the teeth.
Over the last two weeks Kristinn Helgason has improved his score every game to what we now think will be the pinnacle. Today, Tuesday May 28 it was a net 68 (gross 86). There’s an omen there - the two numbers are matching back to front. What’s the bet that next week will be the opposite (a net 86 I mean?)
The news on the street was that Kristinn repeated the same score the next day at Burapha (gross 86), so he will certainly be cut by this time next week. However all we can say is well played Kris. To add icing on the cake he also won the Trattoria Italiana voucher as well as the usual first prize.
Second this week and eight shots behind was Gerry Hughes with a net 76. Sharing third place with net 77s were Mukesh Thakkar & Joe Miller.
Near pins went to Adriano Reale, Mike Gerrard and Mukesh Thakkar while the fourth one was not won and so this prize went to lucky draw winner Bill Hewitt. Other lucky draw prizes, donated by our hosts The Relax Bar at Ban Am Phur, went to Kristinn Helgason (again with the free massage), Joris Goetshalckx (free drink) & Steve Gibson (50 baht).
Now most of the landscaping work has come to a halt at Phoenix, with the new trees and turf laid and settling in well, the course is looking in great shape. A lot of work has gone on re-turfing areas where carts have been driven over curbs and cutting corners. As we know, most of this damage is done by caddies who drive carts, but I would urge all cart drivers to try and respect the new (and existing) turfed areas and not drive outside the cart paths. However, of course we know carts are allowed on fairways but there are designated routes to do this also.
The last Tuesday of the month is always our stroke play competition and it is sometimes easy to forget you are in a stroke play event. I, myself, did this and after taking 6 shots at a par 4 I picked up my ball based on the fact that I could not score a stableford point. Too late - disqualified!
Next week we play for the Ann’s Salon voucher under stableford rules. We are also getting one or two more interested in going sea fishing, so if anyone is interested in either the golf or fishing call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565.

Bob bags a brace

PSC golf from the Players Lounge

Players Lounge golfers take up a new sport.

Tuesday, May 28, Lam-Luk-Ka - Stableford

1st Bob Newell (6) 35pts
2nd Jim Bell (16) 31pts
3rd Dale Shier (14) 29pts
The society made its way to the impeccable Lam-Luk-Ka Country Club to take on the A & B layouts. The journey took about 2 hours and on arrival the car park was found to be empty with only 39 players on the course. Amazing - this world class course virtually empty! Talk about VFM and “millionaire’s golf.”
This suited ‘Broad more’ Bob down to the ground as he returned the top score on the day, 35 splendid points. Following Bob up the podium steps was Aussie Jimmy AK-47 Bell four shots back. Dale Shier filled the flight on 29 points.

Saturday, June 1, Green Valley - Stableford

1st Bob Newell (6) 35pts
2nd Jim Bell (16) 34pts
3rd Gareth Gill (11) 30pts
‘Broad more’ Bob continued his weekly assault on the podium as he made it two wins out of two games for the week with his 35 points. Jimmy AK-47 Bell collected the silver, a trend that seems to be developing at the Players Lounge. Gareth ‘gadget’ Gill received only an empty bowl of porridge for his efforts.
Back at the ranch the action was just as fierce as the lads enjoyed the Lions first win. After the game there was a practice scrum in the bar.
Note: The Players Lounge is situated on Soi Wat Sutthawas near to the Courtyard Pub, just off Soi Siam. Anyone wishing to play with us, just pop in and add your name to the list or call Bob on 080 096 8232.

John Wood the new master

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 27, Crystal Bay A & B - Stableford
CSS 72
1st John Wood (25) 40pts
2nd Darryl Kellett (16) 39pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (13) 38pts
4th Rodney Nabbe (10) 36pts
5th Vincent Gras (17) 35pts
6th Allen Raaen (9) 35pts
Crystal Bay was in excellent condition, as the scores returned attested, but with a high number of contestants the CSS for the day remained at 72 with 33% of the counting ones, those with handicaps of 19 and below, having played within two of their handicap.

Seppo Sadeharju.
John Wood had heeded some free advice taken in the bar during the previous week and returned a score which encouraged him to believe that almost anything was now possible, however events later in the week were to prove this a very short lived, but no less sweet, theory as much was risked and lost over the next few days. It was in fact John’s best score in Thailand, being seven better than the previous best and his first win out of The Haven was duly celebrated late into the evening.
Darryl Kellett had believed that his score would be a winner to mark his last outing in Pattaya before his return to Oz, but he failed to do better than three points over the last two holes which made the difference between first and second place.
Trevor Schirmer seems to always be there or thereabouts no matter what the scoring is like, and once again he was to be found in third after a very good two under handicap round. Rodney Nabbe geared up for his trip to Hua Hin with a solid level par return in fourth and Vincent Gras, a fellow traveler, won a count back for fifth over Allen Raaen with a better 19 on the inward half.

John Wood

It was surprising that with the scores as good as they were that there were no 2’s in either division, but as usual there were plenty of stories of ones that got away.
Before the presentations were made there were welcome backs for Vincent Gras, on one of his seemingly bi-weekly visits, John Carlin, looking for somewhere quiet to retire to, Mike Hill, from coaching the England cricket team via twitter to two wins in their recent test series against the Black Caps, and Brian Libbey who wanted to make sure his subs were paid in time.
Wednesday, May 29, Khao Kheow A & C - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Seppo Sadeharju (25) 31pts
2nd Don Everett (20) 29pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (13) 28pts
4th Mike Hill (19) 28pts
5th Markku Tynell (24) 28pts
After the good returns at the previous outing much was expected at the always difficult Pete Dye designed Khao Kheow where the A and C courses were in play for the day. Unfortunately, following heavy overnight rain the course was playing far longer than the 6,450 yards shown on the card and with a few of the regular low handicaps playing away across the gulf, scoring was at a premium.

Allan Raaen.
Seppo Sadeharju took another win with a less than sparkling return but one that was still good enough by two to take the top step of the podium, with Don Everett in second who also led his team in the side event against Monday’s winner to make it an even better end to the day with no beer to buy.
Once again Trevor Schirmer was in the frame after winning a three-way count back for third place over Mike Hill who took fourth and Markku Tynell in fifth after they had scored 15, 14 and 13 respectively on the back nine on the card.
The CSS for the day went out to 75 and the event became non counting for upward handicap review.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Darryl Kellett and Jens Gunnarsson shared the first division pool with one each.
Prior to the presentations there was a welcome back for David Grist from Melbourne taking a rest from watching the Rebels from his regular seat in the members section.
Friday, May 31, Eastern Star - Monthly Medal
CSS 74
Division 1
1st Allen Raaen (9) net 70
2nd Jens Gunnarsson (15) net 74
3rd Alwyne Burley (15) net 76
Division 2
1st Shuichi Kodaka (16) net 81
2nd Markku Tynell (24) net 82
3rd Terry Hodgkiss (23) net 83
With Phoenix being one of the courses that demand a group of at least twenty players during the low season to be able to play at rates which are in alignment with most of the others that the group plays on a regular basis, the Monthly Medals were forced to move to another venue.
Eastern Star was the course chosen as it is in the preferred Friday direction, south of the city, for Friday return travel and with a green fee priced at 600 baht a player could share a cart with a caddy for 1,200 baht, which is exceptional value compared with most courses in the area and indicative that the management have taken note of the current golfing scene, and even taking a cart on one’s own only makes the cost 1,400 baht.
As usual the course was playing its full yardage at almost 6,600 yards and the added difficulty of medal play saw the CSS for the day move out to 74 from the white tees, with the only reasonable scores being returned in the first division as the length took its toll on the second division.
Allen Raaen took his third monthly medal in a row with an outstanding round of two under handicap to win by four strokes from Jens Gunnarsson in second and Alwyne Burley, who always seems to save his best for the medals, in third another two back.
The second division was led in, perhaps a generous use of the verb, by Shuichi Kodaka who hung on to win by a single stroke from Markku Tynell in second, with Terry Hodgkiss taking third with a score that he may well wish not to remember, but one that was a lot better than many others and therefore well worth the position on the podium.
Jens Gunnarsson had a ‘2’ as usual in the first division top sweep the pot while Shuichi Kodaka ensured at least an extra weeks stay in Pattaya as he cleaned out the double roll over pot in the second division.
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.

Millionaire’s golf at Silky Oak

The Billabong Bar Golf Society /big>

Wednesday, May 29, Silky Oak - Stableford
Having not played Silky Oak for probably 12 months or more, it was great to be out there on such a nice golf course. A bit sad though that the greens had been verticut a few days before but every course has to do maintenance at sometime or other.

Brian Maddox & John Player.

It was another day of millionaire golf as the course was practically empty, and some like Paul Bourke and Paul Greenaway had not played here before and enjoyed their day out. We decided to play from the white tees as some players, who shall remain nameless, would not have made it over the water on some of the holes.
The scores were not fantastic, even playing from the forward tees, but Brian Maddox won the day with 36 points ahead of his good mate John Player, who managed 35. Taking third place on a count back over Capt. Bob was David Hausman with 34 points.
There were three ‘2’s today coming from David Hausman, Bob Philp and John Player.

Friday, May 31, Silky Oak - Stableford

Twice this week we have played Silky Oak and even though the greens were a little tough to putt on, the rest of the course was in great shape and once again there was virtually nobody else on the course.
Good to see our mate Daryl White back playing golf, not having played for a few months due to a bad back, and some shots over the water were a little difficult for him to say the least but with perseverance he managed.

Jimmy Middleton & Daryl White.

The winner today was Jimmy Middleton with a fine 36 points and coming in second was Capt. Bob with 34. There were no ‘2’s recorded today.
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 - we are just off Siam Country Club Road looking straight down Lake Mabprachan.

Hester takes monthly honours at Phoenix

PSC golf from the Blue Moose Sports Bar

Monthly winner Vic Hester (left) with Apple.

Wednesday, May 22, Green Valley - Stableford
Capt Bob Finley shot his best round in quite some time to win the Blue Moose golf comp with 41 points at Green Valley on Wednesday. Jim Bryan was a close second with 40 points, while Bill Thompson had 39 points to round out the podium. Honorable mentions go to Steve Budrys and Eddie Blackwell, both off 9 handicaps, with 36 points each.
Steve won a Near Pin prize on Hole #16, while no one in the field could keep a ball on the green on Hole #9.

Wednesday, May 29, Phoenix - Stableford

Five groups teed off in the muggy weather at Phoenix to vie for the Blue Moose monthly trophy. Although none of the golfers could shoot par, Vic Hester came the closest with 35 stableford points to earn his first spot and carve his name on the coveted trophy. Apple Blackwell placed a close second with 33 points. No other player could break the 30 point barrier.

Capt Bob Finley (left) shares his winnings with Jim Bryan.

Oyjai Wilanan was surprised when she placed first in the B flight with 30 points – 21 on the back nine. Matt Millar beat out Janthorn on count back to place second with his 29 points.
Near Pins were won by Eddie Blackwell and Matt Millar.
Returning golfers were treated to spring rolls and Blue Moose chicken wings by the ever dedicated and attentive Blue Moose staff.

Thomas wins tight finish

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

The last week in May began for the Pattaya Golf Society with a visit to the quality course at Royal Lakeside on Monday, 27th May, for the group’s monthly medal round. The course was in excellent condition as always and the absence of golfers also helped an early start and early finish.
Since the renovations of a year or so ago the course has toughened significantly and low scores are still achievable but only by golfers on top of their game. This gave an opportunity to the group’s most improved golfer this year, Larry Ang, and he recorded a fine net 73 for third place. One shot ahead was John Chelo, playing his final round this trip and the Canadian golfer exited as he had played for so long with a level par round. The winner was Aussie Craig Thomas who managed net 71 on his first visit to the course.
Dave Edwards and Larry Ang shared the ‘2’s pot with their efforts on the fifteenth. The Booby Bevy went to Andrew Purdie for his “hero-to-zero” performance after winning last time out and hitting the depths this round. Nevertheless a fine day was had by all and next month sees a return to the popular course at the mouth of the Bangpakong River.
Good course, shame about the golf
Khao Kheow beckoned and the Pattaya Golf Society fell for its charms on Wednesday, 29th May, when its golfers called to play a stableford round on the A and C nines from the yellow tees.
The course was well prepared and the day stayed fine meaning all the golfers had to do was stroke the ball cleanly and collect good scoring points. Hah! From first to last opportunities were scorned, shots were wasted, putts missed, rhythms ruptured, “thicks” followed “thins” and generally scrappy golf became the order of the day.
For the record the winner was Alan Flynn with thirty points with Dave Plaiter and Peter Allen sharing second place with 28 points. ‘2’s? Forget it!
The Booby Bevy was targetted at “steward” for the day Dave Edwards and it was duly presented for him heading up the biggest bunch of plonkers to masquerade in the name of the PGS in many a long year. Time for the Boss to make a comeback, methinks!
Normal service restored at Crystal Bay
After the shambles at Khao Kheow on Wednesday normal service was restored for the Pattaya Golf Society on Friday, 31st May, at Crystal Bay when the group assembled to play a stableford competition on the B and C nines which were in excellent condition. This time there was no messing as par was first peppered then “possessed” with Dave Plaiter charging the back nine to record 35 points for third.
In second was Mr Len, blowing the opportunity for a large score by dropping four points on the final three holes to finish on level par, his best performance after six months in the doldrums and finally coming to grips with his game again.
The winner was Andrew Purdie and he recorded 39 points in his swansong event before returning to work in Oz.
Instead of a ‘2’s pot this time there were near-pins allocated to the par threes and these were won by Larry Ang (two) Dave Plaiter (two). In the multiplier sub plot Dave Plaiter and Mr Len swept all before them with an excellent 71 points.
After a fine day’s golf the PGS boat had been steadied again and good days lie ahead next week with visits to Green Valley and Burapha.

TWPro – TEZ Tour team goes racing at Sepang

Andrey Snetkov (right) steers his TWPro Racing - TEZ Tour Thailand Toyota Vios during Race 1 of the Thailand Super Series Championship at the Sepang racetrack in Malaysia, Saturday, May 25.

The TWPro Racing - TEZ Tour Thailand team experienced an enormously successful debut in the Thailand Super Series Championship Race 1 on 25 May 2013 when the driver Andrey Snetkov took third place on the podium in the Super Production 1500 class.
The weekend began smoothly for the team as their Toyota Vios was perfectly prepared and tuned for the race on the Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia, and that gave them the chance to record a fast time in qualification and be ranked seventh. It was a great result for Andrey, considering that it was the first racing qualifying of his life and on a technically difficult circuit.
For Race 1, Andrey, who is Marketing Director of the TEZ Tour Thailand company, considered one of the leaders in the tourism industry, had a difficult grid position on the curve and this prevented him from making a fast start. But he persevered and gradually picked off the cars in front of him one by one until he was up to third place. On the final lap he had to fight off a determined challenge from the orange Toyota Vios before the safety car came out to end the race.

Thumbs up from Andrey on the starting grid.

Andrey commented afterwards, “We knew that our car would be competitive in our first Thailand Super Series and a big thanks to our great engineers from Sa Ing Garage and the tuning done by Lim Garage, who gave us a fantastically reliable and fast car, but we were worried by my lack of race driving experience, as it was my first race. Finally, I was able to control my emotions and we obtained a good result.”
Andrey continued: “Also, I would like to thank all our sponsors - TEZ Tour Thailand, Long Beach Resort and Spa, Top Well Property and all our friends who supported us.”
In the Race 2 held on Sunday May 26, there was drama right at the start as a multi-car accident at the end of the first straight left Andrey with a punctured rear tire and he was forced to negotiate a complete circuit on three good wheels before entering the pits for repairs. With the time lost on the opening lap and in the pit lane, the TEZ Tour racer was unable to make an impression on the top positions in the final shake-up.

Andrey (standing right rear) takes third place on the podium in Race 1.

Following a successful debut weekend, the team is now looking forward to 6 more races ahead in the Thailand Super Series Championship and the TEZ Tour Thailand team and mechanics are working full time to achieve even more impressive results in the future.
The next races will take place at the Bira Circuit in Pattaya on July 13-14.

Stuvik impresses with another double podium in Formula 3

Sandy Stuvik (left) stands on the podium with Ed Jones (center) and Hector Hurst (right) after Race 1 at the Nürburgring in Germany, Saturday, June 1.

The 3rd round of the European Formula 3 Open Championship took place at the Nürburgring in Germany last weekend and started off with the sad news that Italian Pietro Stragliati, working for one of the GT Open teams, had lost his life in an accident in the paddock. And seeming to mirror the tragic events, Friday’s weather saw heavy fog and rain cause delays to the F3 morning free-practice sessions.
Saturday morning also witnessed a delayed start as the dense fog returned but once qualifying got under way it turned out to be a thriller. Thailand’s Sandy Stuvik was continually catching up to slower cars and could not find the space to get in a clean and fast lap (with 31 Formula 3 cars on track, the German Nürburgring was quite congested) and only on the last timed lap could the he find the space he needed and managed to secure a P2 starting position with a time of 1:54:836, a mere 0:4 second off the pole time set by UAE’s Ed Jones.

Stuvik (foreground) steers his F3 car to third place in Race 2, Sunday, June 2.

In the race proper, the young Thai driver made a very fast start and immediately shot up into the lead, but with too cold tires he out-braked himself into Nürburgring’s downhill right first corner and lost 2 positions. Stuvik fought back and within one lap he had recovered one position and was again back up to second. In the meantime Jones had managed to pull out an unassailable lead so Stuvik focused on maintaining his position and collecting another 18 valuable points towards the championship title.
On Sunday the Nürburgring woke to the first day without rain and fog and Stuvik seemed to relish the drier conditions and kept setting the fastest times during the early morning qualifying session. With the thermometer reading barely 4 degrees Celsius at the German circuit it meant that keeping temperature and consequently grip in the tires, was the biggest challenge. On the penultimate qualifying lap Stuvik again set a purple, fastest lap, but pushing even harder for the last lap he did not find enough grip in his front tires for late breaking and lost time going wide in turn one. The result was that he fell down to a P3 starting position.
The race itself started in pretty uneventful fashion with little overtaking going on but a massive crash on lap 3 saw two cars going out and the appearance of the Safety Car before the race could again get underway. Once the racing started again Stuvik was unable to make an impression on the leaders but at the chequered flag he claimed a creditable third place and his second podium for the weekend.
Sandy Stuvik entered the German round of the Formula 3 championship with a 28 point lead in the standings and left the event with 105 points and a 32 point lead. The next race will be in Spain at the famous Jerez circuit where the Thai driver tested earlier this year and he is expected to run well.
Stuvik himself commented after the Nürburgring races: “I am glad I could extend my championship lead this weekend and look forward to doing the same in Jerez in another 2 weeks time. The team did a great job with the car under difficult and changing weather conditions. This was a race weekend of mixed emotions, after the tragic loss of Pietro Stragliati in an unfortunate accident and it was difficult to let the emotions out, therefore we did not spray champagne as usual on the podium as a sign of respect and condolence to Pietro’s family.”

Samui Regatta delivers some of the best racing in Asia

IRC One class saw some very close and competitive racing throughout the week. (Photo by SamuiPics.com)

Koh Samui returned to its glorious tropical ways for the final day of the 2013 Samui Regatta, held off Chaweng Beach from May 25 – June 1. With 10 knots of breeze and building, under a blue sky with calm seas, Race Officer Ross Chisholm set two windward/leewards for all classes except IRC Zero, who needed just one more to complete their 10 race schedule.
Although Frank Pong’s Jelik (HKG) had already wrapped up the IRC Zero title, he was out on the startline on the final day, full of energy and with the bit between his teeth. Some tweaks to the set-up the previous night saw Jelik back up to speed, taking the final race win on the two nautical mile windward/leeward course. Jelik was crowned class winner and also the 2012/13 Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship Yacht of the Year, as well as Frank Pong being named the Skipper of the Year.

Ichi Ban (foreground) and El Coyote battle it out in the IRC Two class. (Photo by SamuiPics.com)

Sam Chan’s Freefire (HKG) placed second in the final race to secure second overall and, although finishing strongly with a third in the last race, it was not enough for the Royal Malaysian Navy entry Miri Marina Uranus (MAS), skippered by Mohamad Razali Mansor, to overhaul Ben Copley’s Katsu (AUS) who took third place overall on count back.
Coming into the last day level on points were Foxy Lady 6 (SIN) and Walawala 2 (SIN) in the IRC One class. Business in Europe meant Bill Bremner, owner/skipper of Foxy Lady 6, handed the helm to Steve McConaghy for the final day and the pressure was on.
Two windward/leewards were scheduled and in the shifty winds there was plenty of chance to gain points... and loose them. Foxy Lady 6 and Steve Manning’s Walawala 2 battled over the short course to finish second and third respectively, behind the rapidly improving Elektra, skippered by Marcel Liedts.
Going into the final race, it was all to play for with a close three-way battle at the top. Having thrown away the lead last year on the final day, placing fifth in the last race and giving the title to EFG Bank Mandrake, all eyes were on the Foxy Lady 6 crew. Game on.

Matt Humphries helms Antipodes in the IRC Zero class. (Photo by SamuiPics.com)

Windsikher (SIN), skippered by Sarab Singh, put in a good performance to finish second, missing out on the win by less than 10 seconds, and secured a comfortable fourth overall. A third for Elektra in the final race was enough to claim second overall and displace Walawala 2 who finished fourth in the last race and third in the overall standings. After the disappointment of last year, it was Foxy Lady 6’s time to shine, triumphing in style with a win in the final race and the overall class title.
There’s talk of a new Sydney GTS43 for Sarab Singh in the works, and also possibly for Nick Burns/ Fred Kinmonth, which is likely to add even more spice to the hot 40-footers in the region right now. Watch out for this class in 2014.
A perfect ending to a perfect regatta – at least the winners in IRC Two, Bareboat/Cruising and Multihull classes thought as much. In fact, all competitors felt the same. Matt Allen, the Aussie ace from the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, left a fellow-Aussie in charge of Ichi Ban (AUS), Scott Duncanson, who continued Allen’s succession of wins to win handsomely IRC Two, scoring a total of nine successive firsts.
Pattaya sailor Gary Baguley held on grimly on El Coyote (THA), to be scored second in the class, followed by Thai-based Free Wind (THA), helmed by Nicholas Smith, Bryan Coianiz’s Siren (THA) and Mick Grover’s Thai entry Moon Shadow (THA).
But, there was additional kudos for these later finishers, as the Race Director sub-divided IRC Two into a Bareboat/Cruising class, with Free Wind taking the top placing, followed, in order, by Moon Shadow, Patinyakorn Buranrom’s Thai-crewed Sansiri (THA), Aussie Barry Waugh’s aptly-named The Waughship (AUS), and the Sailquest team from Ocean Marina on Paprika ll (THA). Only one point separated the second and third-placed boats.
Last, but definitely not least, was the ongoing struggle for supremacy in the Multihull class. David Liddell’s consistency won the day and the Ao Chalong (Phuket) multi Miss Saigon (THA), beat fellow Phuket challenger Henry Kaye, on Sweet Chariot (THA), who finished some six points behind, with Samui team Crazy Horse (THA) dropping out of contention at the half-way mark.
A popular addition to this year’s regatta was the Standup Paddleboard Challenge, sponsored by JP Australia, NeilPryde and Kiteboarding Asia, with a competition run daily between sailors, crews, and even select media that took part. The top two of each day went through to a Grand Finale with the winner, Akira (nickname Splash) representing Walawala 2, taking away an inflatable board, pump and accessories worth over US$1,200.
The 2013 Samui Regatta, organised by leading regatta services provider Regattas Asia, was a roaring success with some of the highest quality competition and closest racing on-the-water seen at any regatta in Asia. The proceedings concluded with a lavish Gala Dinner and final awards presentation on the lawn at Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui.
(Report by Infinity Communications and Peter Cummins)

Pattaya Sports Club Fishing News

Jeff poses with his prize Pompano catch.

After almost a couple of months with no activity because the boat was undergoing an extensive refit, Pattaya Sports Club members are looking forward to getting afloat again this month and reeling in a few beauties like the Pompano caught by Jeff back in March.
The first trip on Saturday 8th June is fully subscribed but a few places are available for the Saturday 22nd June trip. Dates for July will be published later in the month. Bookings can be made via www.pattayasports.org or phone John O’Neill on 085 391 7045.

Dolphins slip further into relegation strife

Pattaya United’s Wasan Thanapat (left) challenges for the ball with Songkhla United’s Daiki Higuchi during their Thai Premier League fixture at the Tinsulanon Stadium in Songkhla, Sunday, June 2. (Photo c/o Pattaya United/Offside)

Pattaya United’s season reached crisis point last weekend when they were beaten 3-1 Sunday night in their Premier League fixture against Songkhla United (formerly Buriram FC) at the Tinsulanon Stadium.
Songkhla went 1-0 up in the first half through a superb 25-yard effort from midfielder Manop Sornkaew but the lead was cancelled out before the break by Pattaya’s Rodion Dyachenko, whose charging run ended with a shot that the Songkhla keeper could only parry into the back of the net.
Things began to unravel for Pattaya in the second half of the game when Cameroon striker Elvis Job restored the home team’s advantage, tapping the ball home from close range, then Brazilain winger Aron da Silva scored the goal of the game, cutting in from the right flank before unleashing an unstoppable shot past the Pattaya keeper.
The loss at Songkhla continued a horrific run of results for Pattaya since the start of the season (11 losses out of 13 games) and with Sisaket already virtually condemned to the second division due to financial irregularities, the fight is now on to escape the two remaining relegation slots. Pattaya’s next league fixture is a home tie this coming Sunday, June 9, against league leaders Buriram United, kick-off at 6 p.m.
Buriram took over at the top of the standings in the Premier League following their 2-1 win against Ratchaburi last weekend while defending champions Muang Thong United could only draw at home to Osotspa. Muang Thong’s air of invincibility has evaporated recently with a run of poor results that look to have cost the job of head coach Slavia Jokanovic. Rumours circulating in the press suggested that Jokanovic’s position could be filled by national team coach Winfried Schaefer by the end of this week.
Chonburi FC meanwhile stayed in contact with the leaders following their thrilling 4-3 win at Chiangrai United. Chonburi host Police United this Saturday with kick-off at 6.30 p.m.

Team	P	W	D	L	+/-	Pts.
Buriram United	13	10	3	0	22	33
Muang Thong United	14	10	2	2	12	32
Chonburi	13	8	3	2	8	27
Suphanburi	14	7	5	2	9	26
BEC Tero Sasana	13	7	5	1	10	26
Songkhla United	14	5	6	3	-2	21
TOT	14	5	5	4	-1	20
Chainat	14	4	7	3	3	19
Bangkok Glass	14	5	4	5	1	19
Army United	13	5	3	5	6	18
Police United	13	3	5	5	-5	14
Osotspa	13	3	5	5	-6	14
Ratchaburi	13	2	4	7	-6	10
Samut Songkhram	13	1	5	7	-8	8
Chiangrai United	13	1	5	7	-9	8
Bangkok United	13	2	2	9	-13	8
Pattaya United	13	2	0	11	-17	6
Sisaket	3	0	1	2	-4	1
Results:  Bangkok Glass 0 v 0 Suphanburi, Samut Songkhram 0 v 2 BEC Tero Sasana, Chainat 0 v 0 TOT, Police United 3 v 2 Army United, Sisaket PSTP Bangkok United, Buriram United 2 v 1 Ratchaburi, Songkhla United 3 v 1 Pattaya United, Muang Thong United 1 v 1 Osotspa, Chiangrai United 3 v 4 Chonburi.

Bowe fight bound for Bali Hai on June 14

Warunya Thongrod
Former world heavyweight boxing champion Riddick Bowe will demonstrate his Muay Thai fighting skills at a tournament to be staged at Pattaya’s Bali Hai pier on Friday, June 14.
The World Thai Superfight contest was originally scheduled to be held in Pattaya last month but was postponed due to an ankle injury sustained in training by the 45-year old Bowe. When the fight was rearranged, it was switched to Bangkok’s Huamark Indoor Stadium as there were concerns about staging an outdoor contest during the rainy season, however, the promoters have since had a change of heart and will once again bring the event to fight fans on the Eastern Seaboard.
A meeting was held at Pattaya City Hall on Monday, June 3, attended by city officials and the event organizers, to discuss preparations for the boxing tournament and confirm the list of fighters scheduled to take part. A total of 12 bouts will be held with the highlight being the superheavyweight contest between Riddick Bowe and Russia’s Levgen Golovin for the WBC & WMC Muay Thai crowns.
Other fighters taking part on the evening include Canada’s Simon Makus and Ricado Van De Boss, Dutchman Fed Sikking and Dewee Cooper from the USA, Frenchman Sarladeen Etkerner and a host of Thailand’s top fighters headed by former Olympic bronze medalist Suriya Prasathinphimai.
Bowe rose to boxing fame in the early 1990’s when he took part in a famous trilogy of fights with Evander Holyfield. He hasn’t fought competitively since he defeated Gene Pukall by a unanimous decision in December 2008 on the Wladimir Klitschko-Hasim Rahman undercard but has been in serious training for his debut Muay Thai fight in this country.
“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 last month. “I have recovered from an ankle injury and I’m ready for the fight.”
The World Thai Superfight event will be held at a specially constructed boxing arena at Bali Hai from 6 p.m. and admission is free of charge to all interested fight fans. The contest will also be broadcast live on Channel 11 and True Visions HD as well as several international TV networks.

Buddhists mix running, meditation on Visakha Bucha Day

Runners and walkers get underway at the walk-run marathon for Visakha Bucha Day on Pratamnak Hill, Friday, May 24.

Vittaya Yoondorn
Buddhists mixed exercise and meditation as Pattaya organized a walk-run marathon for Visakha Bucha Day.
Co-sponsored by the Pattaya Run and Bicycle for Health Club and Thai Health Promotion Foundation, the May 24 “Walk, Run, and Meditate” event aimed to get Pattaya locals to care for their health and recall the life of Lord Buddha, who was born, died and reached enlightenment on Visakha Bucha Day.
Deputy mayors Verawat Khakhay and Wattana Chantanawaranon kicked off the race with city council members and Bunrod Sukhim, president of the Pattaya Team Running Club.

Saman Kaewkhaew, from the Thongnakh Club won the men’s race.

Wattana said similar events were held simultaneously nationwide to make merit, hold the precepts, listen to dharma, walk, run and perform the “wientien” procession as offerings for the holiday.
Participants were split into various categories, including a 5-kilometer walk for women under 40, men’s groups and one for the general public. The route started on Pratamnak Hill and went through the tunnel connecting the circuits of the 2 hilltops.
Saman Kaewkhaew of the Thongnakh Club finished first in the men’s group, followed by Anan Phromsaenee from the same club. Third place went to Verawat Aajthrong from the Water Soldiers Club. All received trophies.

Sunthorn Duanthiang, from the Pattaya Team Club, gestures to spectators on her way to winning first place in the women’s event.

The over-40 winner was Kitti Wannamalee of the Thongnak Club and the winner in the women’s bracket was Sunthorn Duanthieng of the Pattaya Team Club. They also received trophies.
A religious ceremony followed completion of the walk-run and participants were encouraged to walk a little more for the wientien ceremony at Khao Phra Yai Temple.
 

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Wayco wins Growling Swan Monthly Mug

Heddle hits the heights at Plantation

Max takes monthly honours on count back

Ed and John share the spoils

‘Dabber’ takes out 2nd Annual Hoser Memorial

Burnie wins back-to-back

Fernandez has a field day at Burapha

Esara streets ahead at Bangpra

Golfnutter: The Organiser’s Lot

1Graham wraps up monthly award

Khao Kheow gives up good scores

Kristinn justs get better & better

Bob bags a brace

John Wood the new master

Millionaire’s golf at Silky Oak

Hester takes monthly honours at Phoenix

Thomas wins tight finish

TWPro – TEZ Tour team goes racing at Sepang

Stuvik impresses with another double podium in Formula 3

Samui Regatta delivers some of the best racing in Asia

Pattaya Sports Club Fishing News

Dolphins slip further into relegation strife

Bowe fight bound for Bali Hai on June 14

Buddhists mix running, meditation on Visakha Bucha Day