‘Big Daddy’ Bowe KO’d at Bali Hai

Former heavyweight boxing champion Riddick Bowe of the U.S. (left) congratulates champion Levgen Golovin (right) after the Russian halted Bowe’s challenge in their World Muay Thai Super-Heavyweight Championship fight at Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier, Friday, June 14. Bowe’s much vaunted ring comeback lasted barely 5 minutes before he was sent to the canvass and counted out following a kick from Golovin in the second round (AP Photo/Apichart Weerawong)

Jocelyn Gecker
Pattaya (AP) - Riddick Bowe now understands why people warned him that Muay Thai is a dangerous sport.
“I would have to say, they have a valid point,” Bowe said after his debut in Thai kickboxing ended with a thud in the second round. “It’s much harder than boxing.”
The former world heavyweight boxing champion had hoped to prove his critics wrong and show he could come out of retirement into an entirely new sport and revive some of his past glories.
But Bowe is now 45 and weighs 136 kilograms (300 pounds), and he looked it last Friday in his first fight since 2008, at a temporary boxing stage set up near Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier.

Slow and out of shape, the fighter known as “Big Daddy” took a big beating from unheralded 30-year-old Russian opponent Levgen Golovin, who attacked with repeated kicks to the shins that knocked Bowe off his feet five times. The bout was ended by a technical knockout after his last fall, with Bowe sitting on the ground clutching his legs, wincing in pain.
“You can recover from a head shot or a body shot, but when you get kicked in the leg it lasts a long time,” Bowe said, as his trainer iced his left shin. “My leg is still hurting. I don’t know how long it’s been — 15 minutes?”
Not once during the brief fight, which ended 2 minutes into the second round, did Bowe land a punch or a kick. But he was happy to trade barbs with reporters afterward, showing the wit that made him one of boxing’s charismatic personalities during his brief reign as champion two decades ago.

“This ain’t a setback, it’s a getback,” Bowe said of his comeback. “I had a lot of fun. I’m going to do it again. Next time it’s going to be different.”
Like so many prize fighters, Bowe lost the struggle to stay out of the ring. He had his reasons: He’s bored with retirement; his millions are gone and he needs the money; he misses the adoration of fans; he loves to fight — and knows little else.
Bowe said he was inspired by the comeback of George Foreman, who won a heavyweight title at the age of 45. But the comebacks of aging champions don’t always go so well. Think of Muhammad Ali, at 38 and two years after retirement, taking punishment round after round from Larry Holmes. There was one-time heavyweight champion Greg Page coming back and nearly losing his life for a few thousand dollars. Heavyweight great Joe Louis paid dearly for his attempt to come back at an advanced age.

Bowe escaped without serious injury and made $150,000 for his Muay Thai debut, organized by Thai promoters trying to increase the international appeal of Thailand’s national sport. The money is a far cry from the millions he earned per bout by beating Evander Holyfield in 1992 to become the undisputed world heavyweight champion.
In his heyday, Bowe fought on boxing’s grandest stages in Las Vegas and New York. His return to fighting took place at an outdoor ring set up beside the beach in Pattaya. Promoters had said they hoped to draw about 20,000 people, but a crowd closer to 1,000 turned up even though admission was free.
On a sweltering night, Bowe sat and sweated for hours as he waited his turn to fight. The venue had no changing rooms, so Bowe and other fighters stripped down and changed in open air tents beside the stage.
“I’ve never seen anything like this,” Bowe said, his spirits lifted by fans coming up to ask for autographs and wish him luck.
One American fan stared in awe at Bowe. “He was such an underrated and great champion,” said Jerry Mathison, a former fighter turned songwriter who lives in Thailand. “I can’t believe he’s here, in Pattaya.”
In some ways, last Friday’s fight is the latest bizarre episode for Bowe, whose life in and out of the ring was marked by drama.
One of his three fights against Holyfield was interrupted by a parachutist who landed beside the ring. A fight against Andrew Golota in 1996 set off a riot in the ring at Madison Square Garden. Bowe left boxing later in 1996 at the age of 29 for a career in the U.S. Marines, but that only lasted a few days. He then served 17 months in prison for interstate domestic violence after going to North Carolina to haul his now-former wife and their five children back home to Maryland.
Despite his loss, Bowe was optimistic before limping away into a waiting car.
“Hey, we’re going to do this again. I’ll be back soon,” he said. “I’m not a quitter. I want to do it until I get it right.”
Bowe’s opponent shook his head in disbelief when told the aging boxer plans to return to Muay Thai.
“It would be a big mistake. It’s not for him,” said Golovin, a trim and fit 100 kilograms (220 pounds). “He’s too slow and a bit too old.”
In the evening’s other fights, Thai welterweight Singmanee Kaewsamrit beat his French opponent Sarladene Ekkerner with a first round TKO, Suriya Phasat-hinpimai, a former Olympic bronze medalist, lost to Canadian Simon Macas on a points decision while Sweden’s Tobay Kaewsamrit relinquished his WMPF light-middle weight crown to Thailand’s Bernoeng Top King Boxing. There were also wins for Rounpichit Phunyuthaphoom, Ricardo Van De Boss and Fed Zigging of Holland

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Tue & Jang.

Café Kronborg increased their first place lead after winning all four points from the Blind Team.
Jack Tar took three points from second place Semper FI.
Third place Indiana led by La Montgomery’s 516 series won three points from Canada. David Shaw bowled a 529 series for Canada.
Jang Shaw bowled a 237 game and 516 series to lead Bavaria to a three point win over Green Tree. Bavaria moved up from sixth to fifth place and Green Tree dropped to sixth.
VFW Post 9876 won three points from Brother D. Tue Pettae bowled a 212 game and 523 series for Brother D.

Results & Standings June 14 (week 24)
Pos.	Team	Score	Standings
1	Café Kronborg	4 - 0	61 - 35
2	Semper FI	1 – 3	56 - 40
3	Indiana	3 – 1	54 - 42
4	Canada	1-3	51 - 45
5	Bavaria	3-1	51 - 45
6	Green Tree	1-3	50.5 - 45.5
7	VFW Post 9876	3-1	49 - 47
8	Jack Tar	3-1	46.5 - 49.5
9	Brother D	1-3	45 - 51
10	Blind	0 - 4	16 - 80

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings June 14 (week 12)

Division 1
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Shoot Pool	10	9	1	38	0	27
Pook’s Bar	10	6	4	12	1	19
Biggyz Rest ‘A’	11	6	5	0	1	19
Butchers Arms	9	5	4	4	1	16
Links Bar	8	5	3	1	1	16
Mata Bar	11	5	6	-5	0	15
Nicky’s Bar	11	4	7	-7	0	12
Sweethearts Bar	9	2	7	-20	2	8
Legends Pool	9	2	7	-23	1	7
Results:  Legends Pool 4 v 10 Biggyz Rest ‘A’
Division 2
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Easy R-Con Bar	10	7	3	18	1	22
Old Thai Angle	10	7	3	22	0	21
Offshore Bar	11	7	4	19	0	21
FCUK Inn	12	6	6	-13	0	18
The Irish Rovers	12	5	7	-20	1	16
Tie’s R Us	9	5	4	1	0	15
Dean’s Bar	11	4	7	-6	1	13
Mai’s Bar	10	3	7	-10	3	12
Crazy Eddie’s	9	3	6	-11	1	10
Results:  Dean’s Bar 9 v 10 Mai’s Bar, Easy R-Con Bar 10 v 4 FCUK Inn
Division 3
Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts
Smile Bar	12	12	0	64	0	36
Biggy’z Rest ‘B’	9	7	2	18	1	22
Wet Bar	12	7	5	1	1	22
Buffalo Jacks	11	6	5	2	0	18
The QueenVic	11	5	6	-18	1	16
The Ranch	8	5	3	-1	0	15
Rabbi’s Elephant	12	5	7	-21	0	15
Connections	11	2	9	-45	0	6
Results:  Smile Bar 10 v 3 The Queen Vic

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Results & Standings June 14 (week 21)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Taffy’s Bar ‘A’	18	18	0	15	98	36
Legends Darts	18	12	6	10	26	24
Dang’s Bar	15	11	4	12	47	22
Load Out Bar	19	8	11	9	-29	16
Jantha Coffee House	20	6	14	9	-42	12
Results:  Legends Darts (4-0)-(5-1) v Taffy’s Bar ‘A’

Mabprachan Pool Team Knock-Out

Results & Standings June 13 (week 8)

Team	Pts.	For	Against	Diff.
Smarty’s	17	57	39	18
Barking Frog	16	56	35	21
Brasshouse	15	59	49	10
Panitas	15	52	44	8
Ice Bar	13	52	44	8
Outback	10	47	49	-2
Pats Bar	9	45	51	-6
Mulligans	5	40	56	-16
Sweet Dream	4	30	49	-19
Lucky Bar	3	38	53	-15
Results:  Lucky Bar 5 v 7 Panitas, Barking Frog 6 v 6 Outback, Sweet Dream 5 v 7 Brasshouse, Mulligans 6 v 6 Pats Bar, Ice Bar 6 v 6 Smarty’s.

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Results & Standings June 10 (week 15)

Team	P	W	L	B/L	+/-	Pts
Legends Darts	15	14	1	15	95	28
Dang’s Bar	13	10	3	7	21	20
Double Top Bar	15	8	7	7	11	16
Load Out Bar	16	7	9	7	-10	14
Irish Rovers	14	3	11	5	-46	6
Jantha Coffee House	15	2	13	1	-71	4
Results:  Legends Darts (7-1)-(2-0) v Jantha Coffee, Load Out Bar (4-0)-(5-1) v Double Top Bar

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings June 12 (week 7)

Team	P	W	L	Bonus	Diff.	Pts.
Legends Sports Bar	7	6	1	5	43	12
Mee Chew Sports Bar	7	6	1	6	35	12
W. Tankies	7	5	2	4	21	10
Scandalic	7	3	4	4	-5	6
Yates Bar	7	3	4	4	-15	6
I-Rovers	7	3	4	2	-19	6
Jantha Coffee House	7	1	6	2	-29	2
Mai’s Bar	7	1	6	1	-31	2
Results:  Jantha Coffee House (6-1)-(3-0) v Mai’s Bar, Mee Chew Sports Bar (8-1)-(1-0) v I-Rovers, Scandalic (5-1)-(4-0) v Yates Bar, W. Tankies (1-0)-(8-1) v Legends Sports Bar

Redmond returns to form

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Monday, June 10, Eastern Star – Stableford

Sixteen golfers today for our visit to the much improved and good value for money Eastern Star course. We would have had the dreaded number of seventeen golfers (two fours and three 3-balls) but Ken Young’s never-reliable car broke down on the way to the course leaving us with four 4-balls.

Near pin specialist ‘Skinny’ Newton.

We welcomed back perennial visitors Mike Corner and Skinny Newton from the U.K., along with Mike’s son Paul, who was making his now regular annual visit.
We arrived at the course to find it reasonably quiet and we were able to tee off without delay. The weather was fine with a fairly stiff breeze blowing throughout the round, which created some additional problems on this always tricky course, and was reflected in the low scoring.
The shot of the day was produced by William Macey (hcp.19) who’s second shot from 180 yards on the par four 16th hole (hcp.1 on the card), struck the pin and finished an inch from the hole for a tap in birdie and five points!
Peter Habgood produced the best score of the day ahead of Tony Robbins, with Barry Murnin taking third place on a count back over Mike Corner. A special mention is due for Skinny Newton, who claimed a near pin prize in his first game back, thereby equaling his total for the whole of last year!
1st Peter Habgood (18) 33pts
2nd Tony Robbins (14) 30pts
3rd Barry Murnin (12) 29pts
4th Mike Corner (18) 29pts
Near Pins: Barry Murnin and Skinny Newton.
Wednesday, June 12, Green Valley – Medal
Our first medal competition of the month, once again sponsored by KPK Foods brought out a good contingent of golfers competing for the coveted voucher. We arrived at Green Valley to find the clubhouse quiet and we were able to tee off twenty minutes earlier than our scheduled tee time on an apparently empty course.
The first group, once again led by “Speedy” Graham raced away and were almost two holes ahead of the second group, until they caught up with a four-ball on the sixth green, and were forced to play at normal pace for the remainder of the round.
The threat of thunder was in the air as the round progressed, but fortunately the storm stayed away, and the weather remained dry, but the humidity was high.
Today all the bunkers were heavily raked after recent heavy rain, and had been declared as GUR by the course management. The fairways and greens however, were in top condition, so the absence of sand hazards meant that someone would probably produce a good score. In the event it was John Graham who led the field (in more ways than one) and returned the day’s best score of net 70.
Paul Corner rediscovered his U.K. form to claim second place ahead of Tony Robbins, who squeezed ahead of Barry Murnin on a count back. Barry was left ruing an adventurous 9 on the par five 14th hole, and wasn’t consoled when Tony pointed out afterwards in the showers, that if we’d been playing Stableford today, Barry would have beaten him.
1st John Graham (10) net 70
2nd Paul Corner (14) net 71
3rd Tony Robbins (14) net 74
Near Pins: Barry Murnin, Geoff Parker and Mike Corner.

Friday, June 10,The Emerald – Stableford

We weren’t sure what to expect today following heavy overnight rain, but when we arrived at the course it was surprisingly dry and we decided that winter rules wouldn’t be necessary.
The management is attempting to clear the fairways of the cabbage grass which has overtaken the course in recent years, and consequently there are large bare patches on most of them. The extent of the damage is such that surely it should warrant a mention on a notice in the clubhouse, but the fact that there isn’t one is probably due to the management worrying that it would deter potential customers.
The weather remained fine and sunny throughout the round with no threat of rain, so conditions were generally as good as they get for this time of year. PJ Redmond re-discovered some long lost form to take the honours on the day ahead of Tony Robbins and Paul Corner.
Barry Murnin is currently in a strong position at the halfway stage in the Golfer of the Month race, but today had one of those days that we all dread, and recorded the lowest points score of the month so far (not suitable for publication) which puts him in the lead in that competition as well.
1st PJ Redmond (24) 36pts
2nd Tony Robbins (14) 34pts
3rd Paul Corner (14) 33pts
Near Pins: Geoff Parker, Tony Robbins and PJ Redmond.
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.  

Golfnutter: This one’s for you - Dad

Welcome to Golfnutter’s blog – a weekly commentary highlighting contemporary golfing issues, in Pattaya and beyond. For more on matters golf visit golfnutter.wordpress.com.
The 4-iron struck from the fairway on the 18th was pure – possibly the best of his life. It trickled down past the hole, missing it by an inch or two, coming to rest in the first cut just off the green. Using his 3-wood, he caressed the ball smoothly back up the green to where it finished hole-high, about two inches from the cup. As he putted out, Justin Rose knew he had all but won the US Open.
What happened next was a moving tribute to a special person in Rose’s life – his late father Ken. Looking up, with finger pointing to the heavens, Rose remembered his dearly beloved father, mentor and golf coach, who passed away in September 2002, a victim of cancer at age 57. By the time playing partner Luke Donald had putted out, tears were flowing freely down Rose’s cheeks. A congratulatory embrace from Donald followed. Father’s Day is a big deal in the US.
There were still two playing groups to finish, but only Phil Mickelson, one shot behind and yet to play the devilishly hard 18th, could catch him. When Mickelson’s chip and run birdie attempt failed, all doubt was removed. Justin Rose was US Open Champion.
Rose, who beat Phil Mickelson and Jason Day by two shots with a one-over total of 281, was just five when his parents took him from South Africa to the UK. From about that time, father Ken was Justin’s only golf coach – right up until age 17. That was when Justin holed from 50 yards at the last, at the 1998 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, to finish in a tie for fourth. He won the low amateur’s silver medal. The following day he turned professional and proceeded to miss 21 consecutive cuts. That was 15 years ago.
“I couldn’t help but look up to the heavens and think my old man Ken had something to do with this,” the newly crowned champion said. “What a day, I just kept telling myself that bogeying is what everyone is doing. You just have to finish it off. What a beautiful setting it was at the 18th. I thought, ‘This is my moment.’ I’ve seen that Ben Hogan photograph a million times. I just tried not to get too ahead of myself and hit a beautiful 4-iron to the green. With it being Father’s Day - I was just trying to remember my dad. I don’t know what to say, I’m thrilled.”
Rose is the first Englishman to win the US Open in 43 years – a feat last achieved by Tony Jacklin in 1970. That he managed an even-par last round, in the most demanding of golfing tests, is a tribute to not only his golfing skills but also his immense fortitude. His grit was evidenced more than once with hecklers making reference to his dead father – as they did during his epic singles battle with Mickelson in last year’s Ryder Cup. Rose’s come-from-behind victory in that match was marked by a miraculous par-save on 16, followed by birdies on 17 and 18 to win the match. One could say a similar thing occurred during the last round at Merion.
It’s well known that the USGA sets up its open courses such that they want par to represent a good score. Many critics thought their plans would be thwarted here at Merion, due to its lack of length. Through a combination of narrow fairways, thick rough and difficult pin placements, par proved an excellent score. Rose’s winning score of 1-over par, two shots better than the joint runner-ups Mickelson and Day is testament to that.
Watching professional golfers acknowledging the applause of the galleries is a common sight on tour. What was different at Merion was observing the pros thanking the crowd for their applause after posting bogey – it was that tough. Some pros liked it, others didn’t. The layout was designed to meet the USGA’s requirement that their open championship test every club in the competitor’s bag. It certainly did that.
Merion, a golf club steeped in history, is indeed a grand venue for a US Open. This is not a course where golfers can blast away with their high-tech clubs and modern ball. The fears that technology would shrink Merion have proven unfounded. Only the purist of ball-strikers prevailed this week.
Undoubtedly the crowd favourite during the last round was Phil Mickelson, and rightly so. No golfer gives as much time and recognition to the fans as does Mickelson. And no golfer has had as many close finishes in US Open history as now six-time runner-up, Phil. “For me, it’s heart-breaking,” he said. “I’m now 43 and this week was my best opportunity.” It was also his birthday. Perhaps it just wasn’t meant to be.
Occasionally the greatest prizes go to the most deserving souls. Happy Father’s Day, Ken.
Golfnutter

Joe & Charlie sparkle at Crystal Bay

PSC golf from The Growling Swan

Peter Blackburn
Monday, June 10, Crystal Bay B & C–4-Ball B/B Stableford
It hadn’t seemed like one year but it certainly was and we had a terrific compliment of 36 players signed up to partake in this historic event. As we assembled at The Growling Swan we welcomed Pattaya Sports Club Golf Chairman Joe Mooneyham, who incidentally played in our very first game a year ago, Volker Buley back from Germany for some Pattaya fun, locals John Swanson & Brian Noguer, Jeff Mellon from Melbourne, Australia, Nolan Wise who is in between drilling jobs, Evan Miller, formerly from New Zealand but now residing here, and Charlie Cunningham from USA.

Joe Mooneyham & Charlie Cunningham.

It was agreed that we would have a four-ball better-ball stableford pairs event with a random draw of an A Grade player with a B Grade player. This was conducted at the bar under very close scrutiny prior to our departure. Having got all that over and done with we headed off from the GS right on time at 8.30 am and arrived at the course 45 minutes later to find that we would be playing B & C nines and could tee off at our leisure.
We got our first of nine four-balls away right on the scheduled tee off time of 10.00 am in perfect weather conditions for golf, not too hot and a nice gentle breeze. The course was in terrific shape as usual with the greens firm and true and we proceeded at a good pace & completed the B nine in just over two hours. Conditions remained perfect for the remainder of the round and in just four hours & ten minutes for the full round we were back in the clubhouse taking showers.
With the good numbers we were able to go down to sixth place and there were some excellent prizes to be awarded. There were also rewards for nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
In first place of this historic event came Joe Mooneyham & Charlie Cunningham with a fine 46 points, and a count back was required to separate second & third with two pairs on 44 points. This resulted in Mike “Hunter” Gosden & Andrew “Turtle” Allen (21 point back nine) taking second place from Ebrahim & Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper (19 point back nine) in third spot.

Dick Braimbridge & Ian Masterson.

With 2 pairs on 43 points another count back was needesd and it was Ed Wyckoff & Paul Jackson (22 point back nine) who grabbed fourth place from Graham “Grunter” Buckingham & Fred Dineley (19 point back nine) in fifth spot.
Another count back was necessary to determine sixth place with 2 pairs on 42 points and it was Paul “Hacky” Hack & Ian Masterson (21 point back nine & 15 points on the last 6 holes) who got the chocolates from luckless Ken Hole & Max “Corsets” Bracegirdle (21 point back nine & 14 points on the last 6 holes).
1st Joe Mooneyham & Charlie Cunningham 46pts
2nd Mike Gosden & Andrew Allen 44pts
3rd Ebrahim & Sandy Leiper 44pts
4th Ed Wyckoff & Paul Jackson 43pts
5th Graham Buckingham & Fred Dineley 43pts
6th Paul Hack & Ian Masterson 42pts
Near Pins: B4 – Fred Dineley, B6 – Fred Dineley, C4 – Peter Bye, C7 – John Swanson
Long Putts: B9 – Geri Crilly, C9 – Paul Hack
Back at The Growling Swan afterwards for presentations and a lovely buffet meal it was necessary to thank various people for their contributions. Firstly, Growling Swan Mine Host Peter Grey (just back from Melbourne the night before) for all his help throughout the year and for providing the sumptuous supper, Max Bracegirdle who generously made a donation towards running the event and Mark West for assisting me with picking up the prizes.
There was a great crowd back at the bar and Peter Grey took Deefa the Dog for a walk and collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan crew. It had been a terrific day and I’m sure everyone enjoyed themselves and we look forward to another great year of golf out of The Growling Swan.

Thursday, June 13, Bangpakong – Stableford

Just 13 golfers were signed up on the day and we were happy to welcome newcomer Stuart Mann from the ACT, Australia. As it is a longer drive than normal to Bangpakong we managed to depart the GS 5 minutes earlier than our scheduled 8.30 time and headed off under grey skies and through drizzling rain at times.
The skies were still overcast when we arrived at the course 70 minutes later and as the venue was practically deserted we were able to tee off at our leisure which in this case was 5 minutes after our scheduled 10.00 am tee time. The rain was still threatening as we commenced and a brief shower was encountered after 3 holes but as usual the “rain gods” smiled on us and that was the end of the rain.
The course is not looking it’s best these days but it is still an enjoyable experience and we completed the round in four hours & twenty minutes.
Due to the smaller field we just had the one grade and went down to five places. There were rewards for nearest the pins on the 7th & 16th greens and longest first putt on the 18th green.
Dick “Reverend” Braimbridge took the honors on the day by winning with 40 points, 1 point ahead of Mike Allidi in second spot. With 3 golfers on 38 points a count back was required and it was Frank “Woody” Donnelly (23 point back nine) who got third place from Graham “Grunter” Buckingham (21 point back nine) in fourth spot and Peter Bye (16 point back nine) completed the podium.
1st Dick Braimbridge (36) 40pts
2nd Mike Allidi (3) 39pts
3rd Frank Donnelly (22) 38pts
4th Graham Buckingham (24) 38pts
5th Peter Bye (13) 38pts
Near Pins: 7th – Mike Allidi, 16th – Peter Blackburn
Long Putts: 18th – Ebrahim
The Growling Swan NAGA Award, awarded to the golfer who has the worst score on the day, was won by Ian Masterson on a count back and of course Ian accepted the cap in fine spirit and wore it for a couple of hours in the bar afterwards. Dick “Reverend” Braimbridge was kind enough to parade Deefa the Dog and of course collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our 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].

It’s Nick’s medal for Shaw

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, June 9, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A Flight
1st Bob Newell (7) net 70
2nd JJ Maffray (13) net 72
B Flight
1st Nick Shaw (18) net 66
2nd Jim Bell (17) net 71
Near Pins: No 4 William Hornick, No’s 9 & 12 Kris K, No 16 Thierry Petrement.

Colin Davis (left) accepts a drop of the ‘good stuff from Monthly Medal winner Nick Shaw.

It is often said that nice guys finish last (i.e. Christy Knight), but in this case one of the nicest and most generous personalities came first. Nick Shaw, who has resided in Pattaya for around the last five years and cares for his dear 81-year old mother, donated all his winnings to the Ban Jing Jai kids home, along with two very large bags of nearly new use designer men’s clothes. The Donkey will be selling them at Lewiinski’s shortly with the proceeds going to the kids (no doubt after he has had a good shifty. Many thanks to Nick!
The victory qualifies Nick for entry to the Lewiinski’s wall of fame and, as with every Monthly Medal winner, also qualifies him for the year end Gold Medal held after the December Medal winner is determined.
The low handicappers wilted in the heat and humidity as the highest score representative from the guys who can actually play the game was a net 70 from the GM of the Players Lounge, ‘Broad more’ Bob. Current golfer of the month JP Maffray, who is on a roll at the minute, won a three-way count back for second that contained the belle of the bar Elaine Bertram and Ed ‘our man in the White House’ Wyckoff, all on even par rounds.
JP Maffray and Kris Krianjootha split the 2’s pot and back at the ranch Nick kindly shared his bottle of Jameson’s Irish Whisky with his new friends
Tuesday, June 11, Laem Chabang C&A - Stableford
A Flight
1st Karsten Kristiansen (10) 40pts
2nd Bob Watson (3) 34pts
B Flight
1st Tom Gorey (20) 36pts
2nd Gerry Roche (17) 36pts
C Flight
1st Lim Elphick (23) 29pts
2nd Mick Coghlan (21) 29pts
The Lewiinski’s Golf Society moved its Monday outing to Tuesday to avail itself of the low season Sports Day’s at local area courses that seem to predominate on Tuesday. As been our tradition in recent years past, we use the opportunity to visit the always immaculate Laem Chabang layout. Although the green fee is well reduced, the buildup in caddy fee and cart still created sticker shock amongst the faithful.
A Flight was led by the impressive Karsten Kristiansen with a man of the match 40 points. Karsten was also the only player to better par on the day. Aussie Ace Bob Watson took the flight silver a distant six shots back.
B Flight was an all-Irish affair as good pals Tom Gorey and Gerry Roche returned excellent even par rounds. Toms backside was more evenly distributed than Gerry’s.
C Flight struggled with the course a tad with Jimmy ‘2 shots’ Elphick and old pal Mick Coghlan filling the podium steps with 29 point returns. Jimmy got to stand a little higher than Mick.
Karsten Kristiansen Pierre Bietry and Rod Brown shared the 2’s pot
Wednesday, June 12, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Rod Brown (19) 32pts
2nd Walter Beachli (18) 31pts
A relatively modest group attributable to the season and back-to-back playing days took on the monkeys and Bangpra. The course was rather damp with all the recent rain, but in playable condition.
Rod Brown was the day’s top man with a modest 32 point return. Walter Beachli, always a sight for sore eyes, and Mike ‘the Welsh Wizard’ Jefferies went to count back a shot in arrears. Mike was left in a daze watching the presentation from the cheap seats.
No 2’s were recorded rollover on Friday.
Friday, June 14, Mt. Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Hynard (12) 33pts
2nd JP Maffray (13 33pts
B Flight
1st Rod Brown (19) 33pts
2nd Colin Davis (18) 32pts
It was back to the imposing Mountain Shadow on Friday, an especially daunting challenge when embellished by rain, and the scores reflected it. And the brave group pressed on through local downpours to play the round.
Peter ‘The Right Honorable’ Hynard and Rod Brown in A Flight and B Flight respectively were co-men of the match. Peter’s job in A Flight was made a little harder than Rod’s, as he needed the help of a favorable count back over the man on fire JP Maffray as both were locked on 33 points.
Well I wish this sentence was about how one of the society’s nice guys Mike ‘the Welsh Wizard’ Jeffreys beat the Donkey in a count back for the B Flight silver. But if you have read this column before, you know that good guys seldom beat the Donkey.
With that thought vanquished, all that remains is the antics of a certain Irishman, Fergus O’Brien. Fergus managed to collect just 3 points on the front nine, but fair play to Fergus as he stuck to his game and added another 13 points to total sixteen points. Nothing to write home about except that Fergus carded the only ‘2’ of the day which gave him the rollover ‘2’s pot. Only Fergus could manage that.
Note: 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 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.

Joe’s in the ‘Mooneyham’

PSC golf from the Players’ Lounge

Thursday, June 6, Treasure Hill - Stableford

1st Joe Mooneyham (15) 35pts
2nd Bob Newell (6) 28pts
3rd George Jackson (20) 27pts
With the inclement weather leading to the cancelation of Tuesday’s game it was a small but talented field that made its way to the always tough Treasure Hill. The course on the front nine is in need of some fair way maintenance, but to be fair the back nine was very good.

Joe Mooneyham (left) with Bob Newell.

Joe ‘I’m in the’ Mooneyham was true to his name as he put a 35 point lashing on the field that was seven points clear of ‘Broad more’ Bob, and a further shot clear of George ‘one ball’ Jackson.
Back at the Players’ Lounge and after the presentation, George and Bob made up for their golf disappointment as they helped the Players’ dart team to a comfortable opening win

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 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.

Dolly Dalton Jomtien Pool League

Results & Standings June 12 (week 3)

Team	Played	Won	Lost	Bonus	Pts
Buddy Bar	4	4	0	0	12
Jimmy’s Den	4	3	1	1	10
Winners Bar	4	3	1	1	10
Rioja	4	3	1	0	9
DK bar	4	2	2	2	8
Windmill Bar	4	2	2	2	8
Country Road	3	2	1	1	7
Woaw’s Bar	3	2	1	1	7
Simple Simon	4	1	3	3	6
Aussie Ally’s	3	1	2	2	5
Flying Dolphin	4	1	3	2	5
Lion Pub	3	1	2	2	5
Shenanigans	3	1	2	2	5
Take Care Bar	3	1	2	2	5
Wombat Bar	4	0	4	2	2
Results:  Jimmys Den 8 v 7 DK Bar, Buddy Bar 11 v 4 Rioja, Flying Dolphins 14 v 1 Wombat Bar, Take Care Bar 6 v 9 Windmill Bar, Country Road 9 v 6 Simple Simon, Woaws Bar 9 v 6 Winners Bar, Shenanigans 7 v 8 Lion Pub

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings June 10 (week 15)

Team	Played	Won	Lost	For	Agst	Diff.	Pts.
Phimai Geordie	15	13	2	155	70	85	41
Shoot Pool	15	13	2	137	88	49	41
San Snack Bar	15	12	3	140	85	55	39
Biggy’z Rest	15	9	6	122	103	19	33
Joy’s Paradise	15	9	6	113	112	1	33
Crazy Eddie’s	15	7	8	120	105	15	29
KiK Bar	15	5	10	108	117	-9	25
Connections	15	5	10	77	148	-71	25
Buffalo Jack’s	14	5	9	98	112	-14	24
Rising Sun	15	4	11	85	140	-55	23
Parrot Inn	14	4	10	84	126	-42	22
Mee Chew	15	3	12	96	129	-33	21
Results:  KiK Bar 5 v 10 Shoot Pool, Biggy’z Rest 8 v 7 Buffalo Jack’s, Joy’s Paradise 9 v 6 Rising Sun, Crazy Eddie’s 10 v 5 Mee Chew, Connections 1 v 14 Phimai Geordie, Parrot Inn 7 v 8 San Snack Bar

Lawlor racks up 44 on debut outing

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Monday, June 10, Burapha - Stableford

After the wet weather the previous week it was a relief to have a fine and sunny day at Burapha, we even had a cool breeze for much of the round. 27 Outbackers played the A and B courses which were in top condition. Once again the starter got us away early, but we’re getting a bit used of that by now, nevertheless, thanks to everyone for being early and ready to start.

Bob St Aubin (left) with John O’Keefe.

Best scores were recorded in Div B by Dave Coller and Waldo (Steve Blazsanyik) both with 37pts … Dave winning on a count back by two points with a fantastic 22 points on the back nine.
“Race2 Bkk” leader Muzza (Murray Hart) didn’t miss his opportunity to pick up more points by taking the top honours in Div A with 36pts, beating Stefan Hoge and Jim Brackett both with 35.
The only ‘2’ came on the third hole by Norm Cheetham who generously rang the bell back at the bar... thanks Norm.
Div A (0-17)
1st Murray Hart (13) 36pts
2nd Stefan Hoge (17) 35pts
3rd Jim Brackett (7) 35pts
4th John Cunningham (6) 34pts
5th Paul Bourke (8) 34pts
Div B (18+)
1st David Coller (22) 37pts
2nd Stephen Blazsanyik (18) 37pts
3rd Pete Stonebridge (18) 35pts
4th Mark Allen (25) 32pts
5th Mark Kembrey (19) 31pts

Tuesday, June 11, Phoenix - Stableford

It was a very hot and humid day as 8 Outbackers travelled to Phoenix, to play the Lakes and Ocean nines.
The staff greeted us half-heartedly and wouldn’t let us tee-off before 10 a.m. but we managed to sneak off a little early. Most people practiced their putting before they ventured onto the golf course so they knew how quick the greens were, especially with a downhill putt.

(From left) Murray Hart, Paul Bourke and Stefan Hoge.

After last week’s rain-affected return to Phoenix after an absence of nearly 18months, the course had dried out nicely and there was no need to ‘lift clean and place’.
John O’Keefe was the star of the day with 39pts, four clear of Rod Crosswell (welcome back mate) and Mr Steady himself, Andy Makara, now playing off H’cap 25, losing to Rod on count back.
The sports day rate was good value and so was the course and we look forward to playing there again next Tuesday.
There were no ‘2’s.
1st John O’Keefe (16) 39pts
2nd Rod Crosswell (12) 35pts
3rd Andy Makara (25) 35pts

Wednesday, June 12, Siam Plantation - Stableford

Considering the recent poor weather and being the low season, a comparatively good turnout of three groups (12 PAX) here at Siam Plantation on the A & B courses.
Steve Mann, who was out again trying to get back into the game after a prolonged injury enforced layoff, didn’t have a bad round managing to scramble 32pts but he did get the only ‘2’ (B7), which apparently was quite close to a hole-in-one. Generally however, the course played easy with a competition scratch score of 70, with 36pts not even making the podium.
John O’Keefe followed up his win at Phoenix the day before with another here, scoring an excellent 40pts and beating birthday boy Bob St. Aubin by two, with Paul Bourke and Stefan Hoge both one shot further back.
Afterwards, back at the Outback, Bob said he was delighted with his round going out in a three over gross 39 for 21pts before letting it slip a bit on the back, returning in 44, and rang the bell in celebration. Thanks Bob, you’ll get to 12 yet!
1st John O’Keefe (16) 40pts
2nd Bob St. Aubin (13) 38pts
3rd Paul Bourke (8) 37pts
4th Stefan Hoge (17) 37pts

Friday, June 14,Silky Oak - Stableford

34 Outbackers played at Silky Oak, many for the first time, and there were a range of comments about the course both negative and positive. For the benefit of overseas readers, who may not know, Silky Oak is one of three courses on offer at Rayong Green Valley, alongside St Andrews and GV but remains the least played and least known.
Personally I prefer traditional golf courses such as Green Valley which is designed for all levels of golfers and is a fair test for all. However I would still love to play the course again when the greens have recovered from their recent scarifying. The course itself has some good golf holes and even though we played from the short white markers (6000yds) it can still be a test, especially if it’s your first time and you have a caddy that has not seen the course before. The yellow markers would be a much better test at 6,300 but a lot of the higher markers would struggle to carry the water on a number of holes.
It is certainly interesting to see the way the course has been designed with the use of dual fairways but different greens and the distances from some greens to the next tee are very long. The bunkers are also interesting, particularly if you find one with little sand - as the bases of the bunkers have been concreted so a number of players scraped their sand wedges when playing shots. Apart from the greens the course was in great condition and if the sand in the bunkers was evenly spread they would be great to play out of.
Patrick Lawlor, playing his first game with the Outback and a friend of John Dearden’s (JTB), was clearly fresh from JTB’s charity game on Thursday to notch up the top score of the day, 44pts off his GA verified 27 handicap and handed his prize money to JTB to add to his charity; great gesture Patrick and well played. Second was Suzi with 36 and Greg Hirst registered his first podium finish to take third with 35.
John O’Keefe was unstoppable this week, registering his third win since Tuesday after being cut two shots since then. John scored 41pts to win by six from Barry Copestake and Div A winner was Jim Brackett with 39pts over the consistent, Murray Hart, beating John Cunningham on count back, both with 35.
There were two ‘2’s from Jim Brackett (5th) and Bob Finley (14th).
Div A (0-13)
1st Jim Brackett (7) 39pts
2nd Murray Hart (13) 35pts
3rd John Cunningham (6) 35pts
4th Paul Bourke (8) 34pts
Div B (14-18)
1st John O’Keefe (14) 41pts
2nd Barry Copestake (14) 35pts
3rd Stefan Hoge (17) 33pts
4th Bob Finley (14) 32pts
Div C (19+)
1st Patrick Lawlor (27) 44pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (22) 36pts
3rd Greg Hirst (25) 35pts
4th Tim Knight (22) 32pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

Jeff doubles up

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Monday, May 27, Bangpra - Stableford

Neil (right) with the currently absent Trev.

Tuesday, June 11, Green Valley - Stableford
Tuesday was a visit to Green Valley under threatening skies. The course was in fine condition, and we were able to get around in good time, just ahead of a downpour.
A relatively small group of 7 golfers, with a wide spread of handicaps today saw Jeff Wylie (7) with a steady 36 points edging Neil Harvey (19) into second spot with 33 points. Neil needed a count back to beat both Graham & Paul, 17/12/11 for their back 9 scores.
Near pins were spread around between Jeff, Graham, Willem & Owen.
Thursday, June 13, Pattana - Stableford
Thursday saw us off along Hwy 331 north to Pattana, with the B & C combination our allotted test for the day. No carts permitted on the fairways today, so we implemented the “lift, clean & place” making it significantly easier to execute those touch shots around the greens.
Again today we had more than half the field consisting of single figure handicappers and they appeared to handle the conditions a little better. Jeff Wylie (7) led the way home with 39 points, just pipping (2) marker Paul Smith who shot an even par 72 to record 38 points. Colin Quinlan (9) continued his recent steady form to sign for a solid 34 points, after fading a little on the last few holes.
No doubt Jeff’s handicap will be headed down again next week, with congrats to Paul, down to 1 next week after shooting some outstanding scores lately.
Near pins went to Paul, Dave & Jeff with 2.
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!

Ritchie on a roll in Kabinburi

The Billabong Bar Golf Society

Bob Philp
Monday & Tuesday, June 10-11, Kabinburi - Stableford
We travelled to Kabin Buri for a two day tournament, but before I go further I must give a special thanks to my good friend Bob Pearce for all his help with the paper work and with the scoring.
The hotel we stayed at was exactly the same as last time, just excellent service with a smile and the private room for our night meal where there was only one complaint coming from Gary Ritchie who didn’t get a meal at all - his order just went over the head of the waitress, although he did manage to get a salad, good diet Gary.
The golf course wasn’t in its usual pristine condition with the greens being cored as we played and there was very little grass on the fairways but the rough was brutal and if you could find your ball it was very difficult to get a club on it.

Phil Waite, Greig Ritchie and Wayne Cotterell.

There was one player who hit the fairway every shot and managed to play one under his handicap on day 2. But Greig Ritchie, playing with his new clubs, couldn’t hit a ball on the first day as you will see by the difference in his two day scores.
The results for the first day were Gary Ritchie in first with 37 points, second was John Player on 35, followed by Sel Wegner in third on 33 and Wayne Cotterell fourth with 32. There was one birdie ‘2’ coming from Bob Pearce.
Day two was another day out for the Ritchie brothers, this time Gary once again taking first place with a great 38 points. Greig came second with 36 points (beating his day 1 score by 16 points) and Sel Wegner finished third with 34 after beating Jeff North on a count back.
Now to the overall and the ‘2’s: The winner of the two-day event was Gary Ritchie with a combined total of 75 points, second was John Player a distant way back on 68, Sel Wegner was third with 67 and Wayne Cotterell fourth on 64. There were five ‘2’s all up from Jeff North, Greig Ritchie (with a putt from off the green that would have gone into the bunker at the back if it had not hit the pin), Bob Philp and Bob Pearce (two).
Everybody had a great time and the next trip is in the planning stages where will go to Khao Yai.
Wednesday, June 12, Green Valley - Stabledford
With four group’s playing at Green Valley our tee time came forward as there was nobody else there, the place was empty. Only a shame we were not told the bunkers were GUR until we had played eight holes. Anyway, some managed to get out of them, but some had trouble.
The course was in great condition though and the greens were very fast; they have had a lot of rain down there but carts were allowed on the fairways so there was no ‘pick and place’.
It was welcome back to Roger Ison and his first day back he was in the prizes. Coming in third today was Murray Hart with 34 points, second was Roger Ison also on 34 but edging the count back, and in first place came Campbell Potts with a fine 37 points.
There was one ‘2’ coming from Mitch Black.
Friday, June 14, Eastern Star - Stableford
Eastern Star today with five groups and the course was in great condition, maybe the greens were a little slow but you could not complain. My mate over from Buderim, Queensland, Tom Hand, played today but didn’t have his best day out for his first game in Thailand.
After all the rain the course still played alright, not unfortunately like the guys playing the US Open. A big thank you to Greig Ritchie for running the golf today, with myself sidelined with a crook back. It was also a welcome to Alan Beck aka Becky, and Phil Waite, who took the day’s first place and promptly bought everybody a drink but not for himself as he was away to Bangkok straight away.
The scores were overall very good, taking first place was Phil as previously stated with 36 points on a count back over Wayne Cotterell. The other placings were a 4-way count back all on 34 points with Brian Orr taking third place over Mike Phillips and Ted Gardiner.
Greig was running the day as stated prior and his decision was ‘pick, clean and place’ and play from the yellow tees, making the going a little easier for all. Once again there were no ‘2’s.
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 look straight down Lake Mabprachan just off Siam Country Club Road.

Cumming going well at Lakeside

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

The Pattaya Golf Society visited the gorgeous course at Royal Lakeside on Monday, 10th June, to play a stableford competition on the well maintained course on a fine clear day. As so often the course was empty as the hour approached and the group got away before time to play at their leisure.
Being a stiffer test now than before the changes brought two years ago means that low scoring is now more difficult and third place was shared by Tomas Nilsson, Masashi Iizumi and Alan Flynn, all with 33 points, the latter making his swansong appearance this trip. In second place with 35 points was Dave Plaiter, the master of unspectacular but steady golf. The winner was Australian golfer Kevin Cumming, and his card also bore the best gross figures of the day, 82 shots.
There were no birdie ‘2’s on the slower than usual greens and the Booby Bevy went to Jim Proctor for the day’s largest split figures of nineteen and ten points. Stalwart John Mason took the non winner’s free beer award, sponsored by “Rabbi” and the presentation continued with compliments to the course and the nature of the day. Here’s to the next one lads!
Taylor sews up another win
On Wednesday, 12th June, the Pattaya Golf Society left a soggy Soi Buakhao for Crystal Bay to play a stableford competition on the B and C nines which, although very soft, were in good condition. However the temporary ban on golf carts severely restricted the comfort levels of some of the senior members in the field in the excessively humid conditions.
No run at all made the course very long and scores were modest on the otherwise “customer friendly” track. Roy Bassett, playing his first round for a few months, performed well to record 30 points for third place whilst Luke Abbey with 34 points and Robbie Taylor with 35 points took the major honours.
Robbie also recorded the only birdie ‘2’ of the day, on C7 for the extra bonus whilst soulmate Ken Grimes took the Bevy Booby for the low score of the day, albeit after a count back with Masashi Iizumi.
In the end all survived unscathed on a day when the quality of the field outmatched the quantity.
Tough & unforgiving test
The Pattaya Golf Society ended a tough week with a visit to Treasure Hill to play a stableford competition on the ever-tough course. Off the white tees, after a few days rain, the course played very long with little or no run and slow greens so scores were disappointingly low.
In third place was Alan Walker, freshly returned from his native Australia, and he posted 25 points. Sharing the win were Karl Flood and Kevin Cumming with 27 points.
Karl took the bonus of the ‘2’s pot after a fine effort on the seventeenth.
Steward of the day, Dave Plaiter, took the Booby Bevy for leading the highest (lowest?) scoring group at Treasure Hill in the history of the PGS at the course, with an average of only 24 points. Roll on Khao Kheow after the weekend!

Warberg makes short work of Bangpra

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, June 11, Bangpra – Stableford
Another quiet day as we make the best of having to play so much golf on great courses. It really is a bind some days, however we do put on a brave face!
On this day it was into cars and off we went from Bert’s. The drive up there is simple these days, especially when you go with Mashi, and especially when he is driving as well and as careful as he did on this day. It was good he was in a good driving frame of mind, especially on the way back, but more later.

Dick Warberg (left) with Paul Alford.

Arriving at the course, it was a quick book in and into the changing room. This is a great facility and it did not take long to get changed and get outside to pick up the buggy. Down to the start we found that the course had undergone the same barrage of rain for days on end that the rest of the area had. So it was no carts on the fairways and a sopping wet course. Still, we were at Bangpra and hoping the rain kept the monkeys at home.
This was a tough day to be on the course; the ball seemed to go nowhere and all the par-3’s were a long distance, indeed we had 2 near pins and nobody got on the green. Still, the weather co-operated and overall it was dull but no rain. The fairways were reasonable if sodden, however get into the rough and getting out was a real problem.
Into the changing room and a quick shower then up for a cuppa, a bite to eat and then into cars for the drive back. First thing was that as we joined route 7 the road was under repair and difficult to get on, it was also chock full of traffic. As we drove towards Pattaya we noticed the sky ahead was black, and as we got in the area of Laem Chabang, the heavens opened. We were just happy we had not played this course on this day.
Into town and the rain stopped as we got to Bert’s, so it was straight into the results. The winner with a great 43 points was Dick Warberg ahead of another good score as Paul Alford came in second with 37 points. In third was Max Bracegirdle on 34 points ahead of a count back for fourth on 32 points that saw Ted Morris in fourth and John Davis in fifth. T.T.F.N.

Brian Libbey swims home

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, June 10, The Emerald - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Brian Libbey (9) 34pts
2nd Markku Tynell (22) 34pts
3rd Vincent Gras (17) 30pts
4th Graeme Traynor (24) 29pts
5th Trevor Schirmer (12) 29pts
6th Dick Heaney (14) 29pts
A week of very soggy golf started out at the always popular Emerald where as usual the local rule to ‘lift and place’ in the fairways was in play, but with the wet conditions found throughout the course the scores were still well below par as most of the players struggled to get any distance from the tees.

Brian Libbey.

Brian Libbey used all his power to muscle the ball around the course following a very quiet front nine and then prevailed in the count back over Markku Tynell with a better 19 to 17 to take the win.
Markku is still enjoying a good run of form having seen his handicap drop three shots recently and on this day he carded five three-pointers to indicate that it will not be too long before another reduction will be made to it.
Vincent Gras took third after a poor start ensured that he would not be contesting the top positions but considering the training schedule he adheres to every evening prior to playing, he still does well to start at all sometimes.
New member Graeme Traynor, no relation to Barry, took fourth after winning a three-way count back over Trevor Schirmer in fifth and Dick Heaney in sixth as they each scored 15, 14 and 11 respectively on the back nine.
There were no 2’s in either division.
Prior to the prize giving there was a welcome for new member Graeme Traynor and welcome backs for Dick Heaney and Vincent Gras.
Wednesday, June 12, Bangpra - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Gary Brown (8) 33pts
2nd Rod Crosswell (12) 32pts
3rd Hal Hart (20) 31pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (12) 29pts
5th Russell Gilroy (15) 28pts
Leaving The Haven in fairly heavy rain, and a few short because of that fact, the journey was a little somber but on arrival at the course the rain had disappeared and stayed away for the rest of the day.

Vincent Gras.

Everyone looks forward to visiting Bangpra when the low season comes around and they are able to tee off prior to the 11.48am starts that are in place for the second group of tee times during the high season. But unfortunately at this time of year the greens are not found to be as difficult while they are not being cut down to their usual billiard table height and a putt from the back of the green sometimes will not reach the hole, instead of careering off the front and requiring a chip back.
So with the length increased by the lack of run and the difficulty of dealing with good but inconsistent speed greens, it meant that once again scoring was at a premium even though ‘lift and place’ was the order of the day as no carts were allowed on the fairways.
Gary Brown started extremely slowly as he took time to become accustomed to the speed of the greens but after five holes his game slipped into the old gear and the points began to clock up, with twenty being scored on the back nine which was enough to see off the challenge of Rod Crosswell. Rod returned a mixed bag of a card which had six three-pointers and three blobs and therefore had to settle for second best by a point as Gary took his first win out of the Haven.

Gary Brown.

Hal Hart slipped into third place after dropping several points over the last four holes, which scuppered any hopes that he held of a high finish after a good beginning to the round.
Trevor Schirmer had a quiet week for once but squeezed onto the podium in fourth, with Russell Gilroy another shot back in fifth after complaining about the unfair tactics of the winner in supplying him with one too many drinks while he was planning his round’s tactics the previous evening.
It was no surprise to find that the CSS for the day had moved out to 75 and the day’s competition became non-counting for upward review of handicaps.
Before the presentations there were welcome backs for Rod Crosswell and Gary Brown.
Once again there were no 2’s in the first division but Terry Hodgkiss cleaned out the roll over second division.
Friday, June 14, Treasure Hill - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Vincent Gras (17) 30pts
2nd Hal Hart (20) 29pts
3rd Dick Heaney (14) 28pts
4th John Carlin (13) 28pts
Although Treasure Hill is some distance from Pattaya on the map, it is an easy trip that takes around 45 minutes and the extra ten minutes or so travelling is well worth it as the course is always in good condition, as was the case on this day.
With the recent weather playing a part again however, the general course condition was wet, wet, and very wet, making it another very long and arduous course that played far further than the 6,726 yards on the card and ensured that the CSS for the day would increase once more to 75 and become non-counting.
Vincent Gras has been practicing every day, both on the course and in the planning room every evening, and at last it paid off as he stayed the course to finish just fractionally better than the rest of the field and close out the eighteenth with a three-pointer to win by the slimmest of margins from Hal Hart. Hal had failed to score on the same hole having watched Vincent’s stunning putt rattle across the green and into the hole like a rat down a drainpipe.
Dick Heaney got the better of playing partner John Carling in a count back that saw him take third after scoring 10 points to 8 on the last six after they had both tied the nine on 14 apiece.
Again the day’s golf was excellent value at 1,400 baht including cart and caddy which ensures that it will continue to get preferential bookings over other more unrealistically priced courses.
There were no 2’s in the second division but John Carling had his first win out of the Haven as he cleaned out the first division multi rollover pot.
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.

Bunn gives a master-class at Burapha

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
The previous week there was a misunderstanding of epic proportions when I was asked to make some amendments to the format of the weekly report, for which I hold myself entirely responsible. This week it’s a case of as you were and everything is back to normal.
I have served my time on the naughty step and have undertaken to enroll on a language course to learn how to, both speak and understand Irish. Not easy I know as there are people who have gone through a whole lifetime trying to understand the Irish and failing miserably. Hopefully within a week or two I will have got the hang of it and be able to join in with the craic and start to get the hang of Irish music with a diddly-i-dum diddly-i-dum day.
In other news, the rainy season has arrived back in Pattaya with a vengeance and golfers everywhere have been spending a good deal of time under their umbrellas.

Jeff Bunn (right) with Ted Senior.

On Monday, 10th June, at Emerald we got lucky and managed to avoid the downpours. There was some excellent golf played by a number of people resulting in some good scores and a tight finish. Mark Day floated to the top of the leader board shooting 38pts but only took first prize on count back from ‘Mr. Reliable’ Jeff Bunn. Roger Wilkinson was close behind in third on 37pts.
1st Mark Day (15) 38pts
2nd Jeff Bunn (6) 38pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (13) 37pts
On Wednesday 12th June the TRGG stalwarts headed off to do battle with Burapha (A and B). There was a National Youth Tournament taking place on courses C and D and some of the older members of the TRGG showed the pampered youth some of their party tricks, like driving off the tee and sinking putts on the green whilst smoking a cigarette and downing a stubbie.
Some of the young competitors would however have been impressed with the golf of Jeff Bunn who almost went round in level par but blew it on the eighteenth. He won the competition by a mile, finishing with 40pts. David Booth took second place with a very respectable 36pts and Billy Ostle was third with 33pts.
1st Jeff Bunn (6) 40pts
2nd David Booth (14) 36pts
3rd Billy Ostle (12) 33pts
On Thursday 13th June it was back to Phoenix (Ocean and Lakes). A new name appeared in the No,1 slot and John Pinkowski, a high handicapper, showed the rest the way home by posting 38pts. Old Father Time Alan Evans showed there is still life in the old dog by taking second with 35pts and Steady Teddy Senior took third with 34.
1st John Pinkowski (25) 38pts
2nd Alan Evans (25) 35pts
3rd Ted Senior (14) 34pts
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week and if you would like to play a round of golf with the TRGG please phone Fergus Brennan on 086 056 7019 or pop into the Ned Kelly Bar in Soi Lengkee and add your name to the weekly lists, which are posted on the notice board.

Richardson shines at St. Andrews

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Jomtien golfers and partners at the Trattoria Italiana restaurant in Jomtien, sponsors of this month’s rainbow game at Eastern Star.

Monday, June 10, Treasure Hill - Stableford
We have had a few ups and downs here in the past couple of years regarding our green fee rates but we were back after an eight month break and everyone was looking forward to the round.
As always, there were a few discussions the night before at Siam Cats regarding the yellow or white tees to play off but the majority agreed that 6,726 yards is too long, with two par-3’s over 200 yards in length, so we stayed with the yellows again.
An even par 36 points was the best score of the day, coming from Kari Kuparinen playing off 5 to win division 1. There were three scores of 32 fighting for the minor places and Jerry Sweetnam (18 points back nine) took second on count back ahead of Terry Madsen (16) in third and poor old Billy Fitzgerald (14) losing out.
Lindsay Phillips won division 2 with 35 points and Russell Gilroy beat Gordon Everingham on a 17/13 back nine count back for second after they both scored 32 points.
Near pin awards went to Martin Grimoldby, Terry Madsen, Steve Richardson, Wichai Tannunsorn, Gordon Everingham (2) and Colin James.
Gordon Everingham birdieds the 2nd hole to scoop the ‘2’s pot in the second division while there was a rollover in the premier flight.
Today we said bon voyage to Wichai, who is on an eight week tour of Europe, and also to Martin Grimoldby who was heading back to the UK.
Wednesday, June 12, St. Andrews - Stableford
A very reasonable rate here today for us and we had seven groups out. After a few discussions with the management after the game, we still had no answer regarding us playing Green Valley. A Sports Day only on Tuesday doesn’t benefit us as we can’t fit that day into our weekly schedule. Jomtien Golf has promised a three-weekly booking here with a guaranteed 20 plus players but there has been no response from the management. It doesn’t seem to make sense, losing all those green fees!
The weather forecast for this area was abysmal and we were lucky to have this number out today. The cut was made at 5-17 and 18+ in division 2. Some remarkable scores came in today in both divisions with Steve Richardson, playing off 14, winning division 1 with 43 points. Terry Madsen, off 10, was second with 36 points and Mike Chatt took third on 35.
Meanwhile Colin James topped division 2 with 38 points and Neil Gamble was second two points behind. Andy Oz completed the podium in third with 35.
Near pins went to Kari Kuparinen, Steve Richardson, Jerry Sweetnam, Iain Usher, Ray Gott, Colin James and Andy Oz.
Monday’s winner Kari Kuparinen birdied the 5th to scoop the rollover ‘2’s pot in division 1 and Colin James did the same in division 2.
Friday, June 14, Eastern Star - Stableford
There was heavy rain here the day before but when we arrived we found the fairways to be very firm throughout there was no need to employ the ‘lift and place’ ruling.
Bill Bertram claimed top spot in division 1 with 35 points to finish four ahead of Jerry Sweetnam in while Marty Rock took third with 28.
Pepo Frick was the winner in division 2 with 31 points, beating Iain Walsh on an 18/13 back nine count back and Paul Butler came in third with 26.
Bill Bertram birdied the 13th hole for the only ‘2’ in division 1 and there was a rollover in division 2 to the following week.
We said goodbye today to David Taylor, due back in November after a few months cruising around the Med and South America. Have a good journey David!

Once again, it’s Mike Newbert

PSC golf from The Golf Club/big>

Steve Ellison
First off a reminder that our Kabinburi Road Trip is scheduled for the 8th and 9th of July, so drop by or email to sign up. The cost is 2,900 baht for 2 green fees, (amazing) hotel and breakfast. It’s a great course too!
Monday, June 10, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford
T1st Mike Newbert (8) 39pts
T1st Dale Shier (14) 39pts
3rd Paul Greenaway (8) 36pts
It was a fine day for golf as we set out for another stint at Rayong Green Valley. Slight overcast skies made for cooler weather and a perfect day to get some clean fresh air and start cursing.

Birthday Boy Phil Smedley with champ Mike Newbert.

These write-ups are getting so boring lately, basically it’s just copy and paste Mike Newbert’s name in first place… time and time again. Even off an 8 handicap this guy keeps winning, his game has truly come around at last. Seriously, he deserves these wins and has worked hard at it so congrats once again to the ‘Montauk Mauler’ Mike Newbert.
Also at 39 and tied for the win, a guy who never worked at his game and can just waltz out and shoot 3 better than his handicap and look stylish doing so. Yes, that’s right, the one and only Dale (and aren’t we glad there’s just one.) Shier also had a great day (a cynic would call it a fluke round, but not me.) to share the podium with Mike.
Don’t forget Paul (Take it Easy) Greenaway who took time out from his car rental empire to join us and leave with some of those handsome man vouchers for his day’s hard efforts.
Wednesday, June 12, Subhapruek (white tees) – Stableford
T1st Jeff Cordeiro (7) 41pts
T1st Gavin Wright (13) 41pts
3rd Jeff Calrow (13) 38pts
I know there will be many of you scratching your heads and wondering where the heck this course is. It is not that far of a hike actually, and the 1 hour 10 minute drive from the 7 to the Bangna-Trad motorway is well worth the effort. Located right next to the landmark 40 storey Assumption University building, this Pete Dye golf course is a superb track. Pronounced ‘Soop-ha-prook’ it is always kept in immaculate condition and a fine test of golf with a helpful management that is on the ball.
This outing was an especially fun day out as we joined up with our mates from The Players Lounge on the Darkside, as well as a golf tour group hosted by none other than the inimitable Dale Shier. The Shier Hosted International Tournament Event is one of our favourites on the golfing calendar and all 28 of us were ready for a friendly battle.
Jeff Cordeiro done us proud and led the pack along with Gavin Wright with a fine pair of 41 points on the scorecard. Mr. Jeff Calrow managed a 38-pointer which is great considering his mind was on Royal Ascot and not golf. How he gets away with it I will never know. Jeff would best be described as an English version of Freddy Couples.
Due to the tour continuing on to Bangkok, we only had a 2-event week but will be back with a full roster of 3 days of golf next week for sure!
Thanks to all the lads for another great week in golf paradise, and of course our congratulations to Justin Rose for finally bringing England back on the Major charts with his U.S. Open win!
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!

Jogsports captures TWHL title, BNH takes consolation crown

Jogsports – the 2013 TWHL champions.

Scott Murray
The Jogsports Ice Jackets trumped the Sport Corner Snipers 7-2 to win the 2013 TWHL ice hockey championship in Bangkok earlier this month with Jacket goalie Jason Cotsmire making a number of key saves to earn the victory.
The match was a replica of game one in the three-game series as Jogsports dominated that game too, winning 8-3. Game two belonged to Sport Corner who controlled and won that contest 5-2.
There were two uncalled for hits in the final championship game; first Jogsports captain Geoff McIntyre levelled Sniper skipper Rob Taylor at centre ice, and then Sniper Brett Fillmore followed up and crushed Anun “Kak” Kullogin, a player literally half his size. The referees assessed minor penalties to both, but many in the stands thought that the infractions both deserved major penalties because of the ferocity of the hits.

Jogsports Anun Kulligan in action.

In the game itself, Flying Farang A-teamer Michael White, playing on the squad’s “Veteran Line” with Geoff McIntyre and Scott Murray, led the way with three goals. Thai star Tewin “Thor” Chartsuwan had two goals and two assists and Scott Whitcomb and Mike Swager each added single tallies.
Ice Jacket captain Geoff McIntyre assisted on two goals, and aside from the hit on Taylor, had an outstanding series, controlling the play whenever he was on the ice and earning his first TWHL championship.
Jesse Starosta and Rob Taylor scored the Sniper goals and it was evident that Sport Corner was missing the presence of Philly speedster Ernie Menold, who missed the whole championship series because of work related/family issues.
The consolation champs this year were the overall champs last year, the BNH Blades. Their series with Sole Mio mirrored the championship series as BNH took games one and three with scores of 6-4, and the ‘Raging Bulls’ took game two, 5-3.
BNH was a bit of a mystery all year as they never seemed to gel the way they did the previous. Losing former captain Charley Argue for the season (he returned home), and David Blomquist (injury) and Michael Nightingale (work issues) for most of the campaign definitely hurt their cause.

The Veterans Line.

But in the last game of the season they did look like the champs of old, as GM Stephen Sproule led the way with a goal and three assists and David Blomquist and Devin Michael each had two goals. Adrian Myers led Sole Mio with two goals and replacement Bruce Turiff added a goal and two assists for the Raging Bulls.
Sole Mio was an enigma too all year long, as their best players (Captain Adrian Myers, GM Joe Lamantia, Remo Nyffenegger, Jason Salituri and Thai national Moo Tengsakul) could match any other teams’ best, but many times they showed up to games with just seven players and you just can’t win continually with so few players on your team — eventually fatigue sets in.

St. Andrews International School hosts 1st Cognita Games Asia

The weekend of June 1st and 2nd saw the inaugural Cognita Games take place in the stunning surroundings of the St. Andrews Green Valley complex. Cognita schools from Vietnam, Singapore and Thailand came together to participate in a two day golf tournament as well as a swimming competition and for many of the competitors, a first ever triathlon.

 

Johnny raises his arms in triumph.

 

Great fun was had by all and there are already plenty of children looking forward to next year’s event. Congratulations to the St. Andrews team for their hard work and determination during the two day tournament. Competitors from the local school included: Ben Harrison, Declan Negus, Dew Promchareon, Eliza Negus, Emily Chatburn, Kanoon Wangmahaporn, Emelie Ekstrom, Ethan Baker, Henry Barker-Bennet, Jade Harrison, Jes Seaton, Johnny Mocny, Jordan Hickox, Bella Hickox, Julian Mocny, Natan Absillis, Nam Callister, Myles Wilkinson, Patrick Steele, Pun Somboon, Rachel Brennan, Samantha Bastien, Sang-Hyun Lee, Tara Brannan, and Tristan Baker.

 

 

Relay Silver medalists Emilie, Tara, Eliza and Dew.

 

 

A flying start by Jade Harrison.

 

 

Declan won Gold in the pool.

Pattaya Sports Club elects new committee at annual AGM

The newly elected PSC Committee pose for a group photo at the Town in Town hotel in central Pattaya, Saturday, June 15.

There was a slight change this year with breakfast provided at the Town in Town hotel prior to the AGM meeting on June 15, giving members the opportunity to study the documents and chat with friends.
Following confirmation that there were sufficient numbers (under the PSC rules) for the meeting to proceed, President Tony Oakes welcomed everyone and opened the meeting.
All existing committee members had submitted their annual reports which were handed out on arrival and, after some consideration, all reports were approved without comment by those present.
Following the Golf Chairman’s report, Joe Mooneyham informed members of a special opportunity on Sunday 30th June to visit Laem Chabang Golf Club after a major competition with, among other benefits, free food and beer all afternoon thanks to the PSC’s close relationship with Singha Beer. In addition there would be another Charity Golf Day at Siam Plantation on Thursday 14th August, details to be found on the PSC web page:- www.pattayasports.org.
Two members of the Committee were standing down this year, Registrar Bjarne Neilson, having served 30 years on the committee, and Treasurer Bob Linborg. Tony Oakes expressed appreciation for their contribution over the years.
The following were elected unopposed:- President: Tony Oakes; Vice President: Dennis Willett; Golf Chairman: Joe Mooneyham; Charity Chairman: William Macey; and Social Chairman: Nigel Cannon.
Noi Emmerson was elected as Sponsorship Chairperson – the first Thai lady to be elected on to the main Committee for many years. James Bryan was elected Treasurer and Geoff Couch accepted the post of Registrar.
Tony Oakes said he was proud once again to be President and looked forward to helping move PSC forward and to work with those on the committee to promote local sports and provide funds for charitable causes.
“As the name of the club suggests, we are heavily involved in promoting sport in the region and our recent link up with EGA Thailand has seen many local caddies get the opportunity to play in their own tournament and improve their golfing skills,” said Tony in an interview with PMTV. “We are hopeful that in the not too distant future at least one champion golfer will emerge from these ranks and in our own little way we will have done our bit to help further their rise to the top.”
Tony also noted the role that the PSC plays in local charities and helping the underprivileged.
“One of the main aims of the club is to support the local community through various charities and we’ve been able to do that to the tune of some 3.2 million baht this past year,” said the PSC President. “William, our Charity Chairman, works extremely hard going around various schools and slums and seeking out the less fortunate in our society whom we can help. We try to keep our members updated on all our charitable activities but sometimes you have to go to these places in person just to see how much of an important role the Pattaya Sports Club is playing in the community. That to me is what the PSC is all about.”

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.

Stuvik maintains championship lead after hot Spanish Formula 3 race

Sandy Stuvik enters the pits during qualifying for the 4th Round of the European Formula 3 Open Championship in southern Spain, Saturday, June 15.

The 4th Round of the European Formula 3 Open Championship was hosted in the south of Spain last weekend at the F1 testing circuit Jerez, with summer temperatures climbing to 40 degrees Celsius. The huge variations in temperature from morning cool to blistering hot mid day would cause some challenges for the set up of the very aero dependent Formula 3 cars. Thailand’s Sandy Stuvik finished Friday’s Free Practice sessions in 5th, 7th and 1st place as the team progressively worked through set up alternatives.
Stuvik qualified P3 for the first of the two races, but had an uncustomary slow race start and immediately lost a place to teammate Santiago Urrutia. Midway through the first lap Stuvik mounted an attack to regain 3rd position and the two drivers went side by side though the hairpin turn 6, but the Thai driver again fell back to 4th position.
At the halfway point of the race Stuvik made an uncharacteristic mistake and went wide onto the gravel in turn 5 and lost another position. He held on to the 5th place until the checkered flag. Controversy would follow though, as the 2 fastest cars were disqualified after illegal modifications were found in the post-race scruteneering. Consequently, at press time the results for the first race are still provisional following an appeal.
Stuvik was fast and stayed P2 until midway through the second qualification session, but with all the traffic on the track he could not capitalize on his new set of tires and ended up in P6 starting position. In the race he had a very good start and was up to 4th place on the first lap and aggressively challenged his French teammate Alex Cougnaud in front. However the Jerez circuit is notoriously hard to overtake on and the Thai driver eventually would take the checkered flag in 4th place.
Notwithstanding the final points tally being under review until the FIA tribunal’s review of the first race disqualification, Stuvik still leads the 2013 European Formula 3 Championship with a healthy lead. The teams now move on to Silverstone in the United Kingdom for the 5th Round on 14-15 July.

‘Big Daddy’ Bowe KO’d at Bali Hai

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Mabprachan Pool Team Knock-Out

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Redmond returns to form

Golfnutter:This one’s for you - Dad

Joe & Charlie sparkle at Crystal Bay

It’s Nick’s medal for Shaw

Joe’s in the ‘Mooneyham’

Dolly Dalton Jomtien Pool League

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Lawlor racks up 44 on debut outing

Jeff doubles up

Ritchie on a roll in Kabinburi

Cumming going well at Lakeside

Warberg makes short work of Bangpra

Brian Libbey swims home

Bunn gives a master-class at Burapha

Richardson shines at St. Andrews

Once again, it’s Mike Newbert

Jogsports captures TWHL title, BNH takes consolation crown

St. Andrews International School hosts 1st Cognita Games Asia

Pattaya Sports Club elects new committee at annual AGM

Stuvik maintains championship lead after hot Spanish Formula 3 race