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Australian Embassy Regatta: A Tribute To HM The King
Story and photos by Peter Cummins
Even the wet, almost windless conditions could not
‘dampen’ the ardour, enthusiasm and joyous ambience of the recent
Australian Embassy Wooden Boat Regatta, held off the Royal Varuna Yacht
Club, South Pattaya. And, as so often happens, the next day the
northeasterly was back in ascendancy in the Gulf, with clear skies and
strong wind.
Winners
all - with Embassy Charge d’Affaires John Griffin (centre).
Organized by the Embassy which, each year, holds a
special event to honour the birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej,
2002 represented the first time that the Embassy has sponsored a boat race
since 1988, when the highly-successful “Bicentennial Regatta” was sailed
to celebrate the 200th year of the country’s founding.
With the full support of the Royal Thai Navy, which
supplied most of the wooden craft, the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand
and the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, host for the regatta, some 40 boats took
part, comprising Fireballs, OK dinghies, Enterprises, one Contender dinghy
and a big fleet of Super Mods, the classy little light-weight designed by
the King himself.
The co-operation between these three entities has been an
ongoing collaboration over many years and, as the commodore of Royal Varuna,
Don Mackenzie noted at the awards ceremony, “It is really the Royal Thai
Navy and the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand which have made our
sailing and racing so successful here at Royal Varuna.”
“The Australian regatta held here today, is a clear
example,” he added.
The Thai Navy men took away most of the trophies, with
Sitee Poonpat, Worrasard Sa-ard-iem and Preecha Dangpratum/Toidsapol
Jornjaithong, first, second and equal -third, respectively, finishing, also
in that order, in the Super Mod Class.
Vice-Admiral Chamnong Sampanyoo just kept out Varunian
Peter Herning in the OK Dinghy Class.
Wiwat Poonpat/Saichol Chowandee, David/Susan Race and
Dave Wales/Na Fa were first to third in the Enterprise Class while Voravit
Vorrasan/Vasan Jumpatong, Claire/Simon Medd and Gary Baguley/Lawnin Crawford
filled the first three places in the Fireball fleet.
The
fleet beats up-wind - into what wind there was.
But, doubtless, the overall winner of the show - and one
of the oldest competitors - was Vice Admiral Chamnong Sampanyoo (OK),
followed by Sutee Poonpat (Super Mod), second, with Peter Herning (OK) and
Vorravit Vorrasan/Vasan Jumpatong (Fireball), equal third.
Varuna sailor Frank Teeuwen had the “field” to
himself, so to speak, being the only lonely Contender to participate.
The King himself is very familiar with all the classes
taking part in the regatta, with the possible exception of the Contender,
having built and sailed Enterprise and OK dinghies, winning a Gold Medal in
this latter at the 1967 South East Asian Peninsular Games - now the SEA
Games.
Banished temporarily from the racing were the ubiquitous
multi-hulled “plastic fantastics”, which normally dominate the
yacht-racing scene in Pattaya. It was wall-to-wall wooden craft, in various
states of repair - or, disrepair, in some cases - as the large fleet sailed
out to mid-stream to take principal race officer, Lieut. Chairat
Peeranarong’s first start signals.
It was hard to judge at times, which were older - the
boats or some of the competitors who, for a day at least, became the ‘gray
hounds of the Gulf’ - some of them even wearing construction workers’
hard hats: not to hide their silver locks but, more practically, to avoid a
decapitation from the low OK boom, when tacking or gybing.
With some skilful manipulating, Lieut. Chairat managed
two races, encountering wind -shifts of 180 degrees, alternating between
storms and dead calms.
Meantime, aboard the committee vessel, the race
management team was busy cutting old soft drink containers in half and
handing them out to some of the sailors who had to use them to bail the
water out from leaky hulls.
John Griffin, the Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy
arrived on Sunday afternoon, appropriately attired in a straw boater and
seemed to bring some wind with him, as the forty-odd craft wallowed in the
doldrums off the eastern shore of Koh Larn. The sun re-appeared and the wind
filled in - just enough to drive the fleets home, making the last leg of the
regatta a truly spectacular sight, as each boat sailed past the finishing
line at the Royal Varuna foreshore in blazing sunlight.
The regatta was basically the idea of Embassy staffer
Brett Young who brought his own home-built wooden boat to the scene but,
alas, was not able to launch, due to a few technical glitches.
Mr. Griffin pointed out that His Majesty’s interest -
and outstanding success in building and racing dinghies, was the inspiration
for the regatta, noting that such a race for wooden boats was a
“particularly appropriate way to celebrate the Monarch’s 75th birthday,
on the fifth of December.”
John was effusive in his praise of the management of the
event by the Royal Thai Navy, the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, and,
not least, of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club. “Also, with a number of
generous Australian sponsors, such as Qantas, Leighton Thailand, the Laem
Chabang International Terminal, BHP Steel, NDC, Rolly Tasker Sails, Recall,
Servcorp and Linfox,” John pointed out, “a large sum has been donated to
His Majesty’s Chai Pattana Foundation.”
In spite of the unseasonable weather, it was a magnificent day at the
shore.
Carnage at Bira halves Touring Car field!
The demanding Bira circuit was to prove to be too much
for half the field in the touring car Group N + Class C race held there last
weekend, as part of the Thailand Grand Touring Car series, organized by the
AIM Racing Project.
Qualifying on the Saturday was held in torrential rain
and it was surprising who had webbed feet and who did not! This produced a
very different grid from normal, with many of the fancied runners down the
rear of the grid.
However, Sunday race day was hot and dry and the racing
was cut-throat as the back markers strived to get back up to their
‘rightful’ positions. Of the 20 starters in the Class C group, only 10
saw the finish flag, but most of the missing 10 saw the retaining fences! It
required a cavalcade of tow vehicles to get the motor cars back to the
scrutineering area. One driver whose name was “Jump” obviously jumped
left when he should have jumped right. The panel shops will be busy. The
race was finally won by Nattapong in the Honda Civic from the similar cars
of Karn and Supachai.
The Sport Challenge class for newcomers saw a strong win
by Vichapong from Narongchai and Apimingkol. French nationals Gilles and
Bernard Pailler came home 5th and 10th respectively.
The Group N + Classes A and B race was a thriller, with
many lead changes, but it was the steady and heady drive by Natavud which
saw him take the top step on the podium yet again. He deserves the “Number
1” on his works Toyota Corolla Altis.
Second, but over 30 seconds adrift by the chequered flag,
was Grant Supapongs in the Honda Civic, who had fought his way to the front
from a very rearward grid position, but lost the lead with some recurring
gearshift problems. He was another 20 seconds clear of Natavud’s team
mate, the Thai film star “Pete” Panthakarn, who appears to have managed
to rein in his “press on regardless and bounce it off the wall” style
and was rewarded with a well driven 3rd.
The Sport Grand Champion category appeared to run the
cars on Singha Beer, as almost every vehicle was sporting Singha signage and
many drivers had the surname Bhirombakdi (the brewing family). A deserving
winner of the 5th round was Tanavud, who also set the fastest lap of 65.8
seconds, followed by Chaiyanin and Vutikorn. The pace was so furious that
Tanavud lapped all but the top 6 cars.
Being the 5th and final round of the TGTC sponsored
championships, all of the national titles were decided. The Overall Winner
and the Sport Grand Champion for 2003 was Tanavud Bhirombakdi driving for
the Singha Caltex Havoline Team B. The Sport Challenge Champion was
Apimongkol Sonakul, Touring Cars Group N + Class A Apathorn Kunnasoot
(Poseidon Junior), Class B Apichai Punkongchun (KPS Bridgestone Singha
Triumph Engineering) and Class C Natthapong Leartlumpraseachkul (Speed R
Ramithra Turbo).
The meeting was honoured with the presence of the Minister for Sport and
Tourism, Sonthaya Khunpluem, and Chanyut Hengtrakul, his advisor. Both
appeared to enjoy the races and with a little luck, there could be some
central government interest in the motor racing field in the future.
Thailand’s Prince Bira, after whom the circuit was named, was a world
class motor racer. It will take promotion by the government for us to find
another Prince Bira.
Spice Boys taught lesson by The Mighty Warbler
MBMG International League Week 3
In Conference A of the MBMG International League, the
Spice Boys of new team Bangkok Blitz took the field against The Mighty
Warbler, with reasons for optimism. Not only did they arrive surrounded by a
cluster of MTV starlets and society beauties but the champions were in a
state of disarray, having lost their goalkeeper only minutes before kick
off.
With The Mighty Warbler forced to play Dodger
Shuttleworthless, their starting forward, in goal the starlets and the Spice
Boys licked their lips in anticipation. However, as Shuttleworthless
produced save after outstanding save and Jeffries and Henthorn, with half an
eye on the watching starlets, produced trick after mesmerizing trick, the
Spice Boys were defeated 5-0.
At the end of the game, not only did the Spice Boys lose
but they also learnt an invaluable lesson about the fickleness of fame as
they watched Shuttleworthless and Henthorn leave the pitch surrounded by the
cluster of MTV starlets and society beauties.
In Conference B, crisis club SCI gained their first point
of the season with a two all draw against improving Patana. After the game
SCI’s under fire manager McGuigan responded to questions about needing to
improve his team’s defense, which has now conceded eleven goals in three
games, by saying, “The chairman’s told me there’s nothing left in the
pot, we have to sell before we can buy. Some of those boys are fighting for
their careers.” Elsewhere, the High School Casuals were taught a stern
lesson by conference masters, Pattaya with Paul Crouch instrumental in the
7-0 caning.
Phuket Regatta, 2002: Something Old; Something New
story and photos
by Peter Cummins
We are not talking here of the age-old tradition of
marriage, whereby the bride is supposed to wear “something old, something
new, something borrowed, something blue”. Rather, it is an annual event
which, this year, will revert to some tested formulae and add some new
ideas.
16th
PKCR Organizing Committee (L to R) Don McKenzie, Gulu Lalvani, Andy Dowden,
Admiral Varong Songcharoen, and Nigel Hardy.
It is that time of the year - again! The sixteenth
sailing of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will take place from November 30
until December 7, timed to coincide with the week of His Majesty the
King’s seventy-fifth birthday on the Fifth of December.
The inaugural regatta, held in 1987, was established to
celebrate the King’s fifth-cycle, sixtieth birthday and has continued to
evolve over the years. It has, and has become one of Asia’s best yacht
races, this year being the second event in the Asian Yachting Circuit’s
four-regatta series, sailed also in Malaysia, Singapore and on the South
China Sea, between Hong Kong and the Philippines.
Sponsors
Principal sponsor for 2002 is the newly developing
Binatone and Royal Phuket Marina, Resort and Spa - destined to be one of
Asia’s best marine complexes, reflecting the new confidence in
Thailand’s marine sector. This represents the first Phuket-based sponsor
in the regatta’s history and augurs well for future events. And, since the
regatta moved north to Kata Beach from Nai Harn Bay some five years ago, the
Kata Group has been its host and ‘home’ on the Kata Beach seafront.
Co-sponsors include some new and many perennial regatta
supporters. It represents the first-time “aboard”, not just for the
major sponsor, but others such as American Express Bank, Land Rover
Thailand, Nautica (Bara Windsor Company Limited) and TPQR Thailand (Total
Quality PR).
An
all-Thai team on Viroj Nualkair’s “Octopussy”.
The Evason Phuket Resort and Spa, House of Kangaroo
Europe AS, Phuket Magazine, QBE Thailand, Sunsail Thailand and, of course,
the Tourism Authority of Thailand have joined again, as have beverage
sponsors Berli Jucker, Coca Cola and Phuket Island Beer.
Supporting sponsors include Don’s Cafe, Neil Pryde
(Hong Kong), Phuket Marina Services, Sika Thailand and Wave Rider.
Mom Tri’s Boathouse: perennial regatta supporter
The most consistent supporter - and one of the founders
of the event - Mom Tri Devakul, annually places the resources of his
world-renowned Mom Tri’s Boathouse Wine and Grill behind the regatta.
Again, this year with Land Rover Thailand, the Boathouse will sponsor the
Fourth Race, sailed on the King’s birthday, and will hold a cocktail party
and presentation, with a candle-light ceremony on Kata Beach, co-ordinated
to similar tributes country-wide in honour of the Monarch’s 75th birthday.
According to Boathouse GM, Louis Bronner, a propitious
time is set in Bangkok - usually around 19.00 hours - after which candles
are lit simultaneously throughout the Kingdom.
Mom Tri’s Boathouse also hosts the Sponsors’ Gala
Dinner at the splendid resort, on Tuesday, at the end of the Binatone and
Royal Phuket Marina Andaman Sea Race, the regatta’s Blue Riband event.
As always, the organizing clubs of the regatta are the
Phuket Yacht Club, the Royal Varuna Yacht Club and the national authority,
the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. The Royal Thai Navy, from its
southern base, lends logistic support, personnel and the mandatory security
that such an event requires. Again, as every year, the offices of the
respective governors of Phuket and Krabi lend their unconditional support.
Beach-launched
catamarans will be back for 2002.
What’s new for 2002?
The organizing committee is constantly striving to
improve, upgrade and vary the regatta format, while not compromising the
quality and level of excellence which has been achieved in 15 years.
Sometimes that requires reverting to former initiatives and this year there
are several, plus many innovations. Firstly, the regatta will start from Koh
Phi Phi and, then, at the end there will be a long-tail boat race to involve
the Phi Phi residents - both of these have been done before. Then, a fleet
of beach-launched catamarans will be back to compete for the first time in
almost a decade.
A novelty this year will be the Silka boat building
competition to take place on the lay-day, Wednesday. This is going to be a
huge amount of fun - but, although I certainly shall ‘go to see’ the
production, I am not too sure that I would ‘go to sea’ in the end
product!
President of the 2002 organizing committee, Phuket marine
entrepreneur Andy Dowden, said recently that the start from Koh Phi Phi was
the first time since 1997 and, in spite of the “logistical and cost
implications, it is what the sailors want,” he pointed out. Phi Phi and
neighbouring islands have been the targets of media attack since that time -
as recently as last week in the “Bangkok Post” - for the degradation of
the environment, the disregard of residents for the ecological disasters
they are courting and other considerations. The arrival of a fleet of yachts
- which basically leave no flotsam and jetsam in their wakes - could well be
a boost to the island’s eco-system. Certainly, back in 1997, the King’s
Cup fleet anchored off a cesspool of pollution.
Royal
Varuna entry: Robert England’s “Emerald Blue”.
The second ‘re-invention’ will be the long-tail race
which, when last held about eight years ago, was a great joy to the
populace.
Under retired four-star Royal Thai Navy Admiral Varong
Songcharoen, who has taken charge of the 2002 regatta racing programme,
there will be a total of 10 classes.
Already more than 70 craft have already registered and
the committee expects about 80 keelboats and some 20 catamarans and sports
boats, for a total of 100 - the kind of fleets which were evident prior to
the 11 September 2001 disaster. Three new categories will be an Ocean Rover
Class, the return of the beach-launched catamarans, and a Sports Boat Class.
Adm. Varong, who knows his way around the sea - if anybody does - was
formerly the Commander of the Thailand Naval Academy which will have two
teams competing in Platus in the “IRC 2” class.
Many familiar names (and craft) are on the sign-in sheet,
including multiple regatta winner Neil Pryde’s Hong Kong sloop, “Hi
Fidelity”, David Bailey’s “Hocux Pocux”, Bill Bremner’s “Foxy
Lady”, and high performing Keith Moore’s “Pla Loma 3”. George Foose
will sail his “Free Wind” down from Pattaya and perennial regatta
participant, Radab Kanjanavanit will be there sailing the multi-hull
“Cedar Swan”.
Frank Pong’s magnificent Hong Kong maxi, “Jelik”,
which performed so well at the First Koh Samui Regatta last May, will be
seeking the Racing Class honours.
Much interest will be taken in several all-Thai teams,
such as the Naval Academy’s entries, Viroj Nualkair’s “Octopussy”
and Schle Wood-Thanan’s new Farr-designed, “Pasaya”, one of the many
fine racing craft built by the Malaysian yard, DK Composites.
Royal Varuna, under new Flag Commodore Robert England,
will again have a full team entered on “Emerald Blue”.
The committee, the competitors, the press and media - in
fact, anyone even remotely involved in the regatta - can be thankful to the
long list of sponsors and supporters, particularly principal sponsor
Binatone and Royal Phuket Marina Resort and Spa, whose owner and developer,
Gulu Lalvani has invested more than $25 million into the venture. “I
believe that the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta can become a world-class event,
like the Caribbean’s Antigua Week ... and even England’s Cowes Week,”
he said.
Mr Lalvani was surprised that the Thai Government did not
support recreational boating in the Kingdom, giving places like Langkawi -
“nowhere near as beautiful as Phuket” - the advantage.
Gulu can be considered as the “Guru” in marine
development and we now have the chance “to knock all competitive
destinations into second place,” he announced, reiterating that the new
complex was not being developed at the expense of the environment. Quite the
contrary, in fact for he is working with government agencies and a top
European landscape designer, “to re-plant and cultivate mangroves where
they used to be,” he emphasized.
See you at Phuket.
Mo Bertrand has a week to remember
IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Monday 18th
November
Burapha West
Bogey
1st: Mo Bertrand, 4 up, cb9 2 up, cb6 2 up, cb3 2 up
2nd: Pete Murray, 4 up, cb9 2 up, cb6 2 up, cb3 all
square
3rd: Trevor Edge, 3 up
4th: Dave Lee, all square, cb9 all square
5th: Ron Mathews, all square, cb9 1down, cb6 1 down
6th: Phil Cleland, all square, cb9 1 down, cb6 2 down
7th: Richard Garland, all square, cb9 2 down
8th: Dave Howden, all square, cb9 2 down
Unable to play the scheduled East Course, most of the
players found the rough a little too rough for their liking. With the wind
blowing hard, any poorly struck shots immediately blew into trouble which
proved to be difficult to recover from and match par.
Mo Bertrand, playing some of the best golf of his time in
The Land of Smiles, took his first of three podium positions in the week by
beating out one of the boys from Costa Rica, Pete Murray, on count back that
had to be decided on the last three holes.
Trevor Edge, now free of all nurse-maiding
responsibilities, took third place from a gaggle of players who had to be
separated by numerous count backs.
The twos were shared between Phil Cleland, Pete Murray
and Paul Ovens.
Prior to the prize giving Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA professional, welcomed new members Glenn Unflat, Billy Martin
and Chris Ferris, whilst welcoming back John Taylor, Des Regan and Phil
Cleland all on holiday from New Zealand to play golf and forget the All
Blacks game at Twickenham.
Wednesday 20th November
Century Ban Chan
Stroke Play
1st: Stephen Beard, 73
2nd: Mo Bertrand, 74
3rd: Richard Garland, 75
4th: Dave Lee, 76
5th: Phil Cleland, 77, cb9 36
6th: Ron Mathews, 77, cb9 36.5
7th: Rick Bevington, 77, cb9 37.5
8th: Trevor Edge, 77, cb9 39
The “Doc” emerged from a spell in the doldrums to
record his best round for some time and although unable to beat par, took
the day’s honours with the rest of the field struggling in the hot and
windy conditions over the tricky Nick Faldo designed layout.
He was chased all the way by Mo Bertrand, taking his
second prize of the week, and the other one of the boys from Costa Rica,
Richard Garland, but they were not quite able to snatch the win over the
closing holes.
Dave Lee also took his second prize of the week with a
score that he thought would not be troubling the scores, heading a group of
players by a further shot who had to be separated by the now familiar count
back.
“Noddy” Winton and Richard Garland shared the twos.
Friday 22nd November
Treasure Hills
Stableford
1st: Paul Taylor, 36 points, cb9 19
2nd: Ray Matti, 36 points, cb9 18
3rd: Phil Cleland, 35
4th: Al Rolnik, 34
5th: Mo Bertrand, 33
Ray Matti, fresh from his gross 72 on the final day of
the Lewiinski’s/Orchid four-day competition, was not quite able to
recreate his form, although it should be said that the course played its
full length and the wind was also a major factor. Paul Taylor, who recorded
his first win out of The Haven, beat him into second place, just getting the
nod on the back nine with nineteen points.
Phil Cleland took third place to become the second player
to figure in the prizes every day of the week’s competitions.
Al Rolnik finished just ahead of the ever-present Mo
Bertrand, who’s worst round of the week proved good enough to claim the
last prize of the day.
The twos were shared between Phil Cleland, Mo Bertrand,
Chris Ferris, Mark Cooper, Doug Campbell, Ron Mathews and the “Doc” who
unusually plays in the same group, all had a two on the same hole.
Fortt and Privett win the week
PSC Golf from the Rising Sun
On Tuesday the Rising Sun golfers went to the beautifully
manicured Natural Park Resort. A Stableford competition was the format.
The winner with 38 points was Kevin Fortt, and runner-up
with 36 points was Jiss Branford.
Nearest the pins were won by Dave Hughes and Mac
Mackenzie. The twos pot was won by Dave Hughes.
On Thursday, the Rising Sun golfers held a Stableford
competition at St Andrews. With 23 entries, everyone was keen to get at this
splendid par 74 course.
The course was in fine condition, but with fast greens
and a par 6 measuring 790 yards, scoring did not come easy for most.
Roger Privett won with 38 points. Runner-up was Ron
Matthews playing off a 9 handicap.
Nearest the pin (although some thought it was nearest the
tee box) went to Tony Thorne on hole #3, Matt Anderson on hole #5, Mick
Benton on hole #10 and John Taylor on hole #17.
The twos pot was shared by Paul Thavat and John Taylor.
Ed leaves ‘em Trayling
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the Bunker
Loy Krathong is a traditional Thai holiday when people
make their way to water and float their “krathongs” containing flowers,
candles, incense, money and strands of hair and fingernail clippings, in
search of blessings and good fortune for the year to come. So it was, on Loy
Krathong day, when the Bunker Boys went in search of other good fortune at
the beautiful Khao Kheow golf course. The day was clear with a refreshing
breeze and the challenge was to be stroke play over the “A” and “B”
courses.
In division one Harry Riley rediscovered some of his
touch and headed the list with a thoughtful net 76, nudging Norman Brooks
into second place with his net 77. One shot behind was Colin Wilkes on 78.
Division two saw the better scores surprisingly, and
lording it above all others was senior golfer Ed Trayling who shot a fine
level par 72, just extinguishing the efforts of Fireman Danny Greer and his
new clubs who combined to fire net 73. Gary Austin carded a steady 74 to
take third place.
The day witnessed no two’s and so the Bunker Super
Sawng award was held back and Andy Anderson wishes the same could be said of
the Bunker Banana Booby, for his futile efforts at hitting the krathong-like
green on B8 guaranteed him bananas with his cornflakes for the next few
days. All in all it was a day perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the
occasion, full of dignity and good humour, and Khao Kheow was, as always,
the perfect charming host.
Mr. Loy pulls out a big one at Ban Chang
The Bunker Boys made their monthly visit to Century Ban
Chang on Friday, 22nd November, on a day when a refreshing breeze comforted
the golfers but hampered their game.
The day was memorable for the performance of Roy Mitchell
in division one. Mr. Loy has been in woeful form for a few months and he
would be the first to admit that he could not put his finger on the problem.
At his favourite course, Ban Chang, he rekindled his game and shot a
marvellous 43 points to decimate the field, his round including ten pars and
very little over. It was the round he has been waiting for and it should see
his handicap plummet to its rightful place.
In second place was Colin Wilkes, firing 31 points,
whilst Harry Riley secured third place with his 28.
Another player who has been lost in the golfing
wilderness for a long time, Len Jones, found his game again and scored 34
points to take division two, closely followed by Kevin Wilson (33) and David
Johnson and Des Pearson (32).
Stuart Tinkler scored the only two of the day and picked
up the Bunker Super Sawng award for the first time and completed a double by
shooting the day’s lowest score of 21 points thereby netting the Bunker
Banana Booby as well. But for Mr. Loy the abiding memory of the day will be
the style with which he pulled out a big one at Ban Chang.
Paul Sharples garners first win
P.S.C. Golf from the 60’s Bar
Friday November 22
Century Bang Chang
(Stableford)
All competitions from the 60’s Bar will be Stableford
and the organisers do not want to have too much to do, after all they play
as well, so there will always be plenty of near pins and long putts and any
fun ideas we can think of. But we will always have one winner, after all we
need to get the cards in so we can look at the handicaps, and as in the
first 2 competitions only one player has beaten his handicap, and only by
one shot. It looks as if it’s so far so good.
Bobby
(right) presents to Paul.
This time after a good breakfast at the 60’s Bar cooked
by Bobby Joe, all piled into transport for the trip to Bang Chang and the
promise of a fine day’s golf. I have to say here that if you visit the
60’s Bar at the present time you will be regaled by Bobby Joe who will
show you his new clubs and tell you how much his swing has improved in his
two lessons with Mike. When the bug hits it hits and Bobby reckons after a
few more lessons he will play at the back of the field next week. We look
forward to it.
Paul
and Bua Brook, who played really well.
A fine
bunch of golfers.
Well back to the plot and to a round of golf on this fine
course that to me is the most under valued course in the area. The course
was in fine condition and the only drawback it has is that for large groups
the showers are insufficient, and by the way cold, usually. Still, get out
on the course and it is a fine walk around and sitting in the
‘Clubhouse” at the end has always been a fine experience after the
opulence of other courses.
On this day as usual the golfers were chased around by
that fine photographer, Bobby Joe, until the call of the Heineken took hold
of him and he did a dash for the coolness of Bang Chang’s Bars. He’s
good at bars is our Bobby.
Meanwhile out on the course the usual mediocrity was
surfacing and scores were going through the floor. I am pleased to report
that the ‘Regulars’ are not improving but as is unusual a refugee from
the Middle East who flew in on Thursday and flies back on Sunday was forging
ahead and finally won with an average round that was good enough. Not that
Paul (Ena) Sharples cares; he has been coming here since the Stone Ages and
playing all the competitions and this is his first win. It will make the
flight back on Sunday sweeter, especially as Bobby Joe presented him with a
golf towel to wipe away the tears. There is no proof that Paul flew in just
to play as a ringer, but we suspect...
Back at the bar it was pouring down, the road outside was
flowing like a river and after finally dashing into the bar it was nice to
be met by a bubbling stew of split pea and ham (called soup by mine host);
in that weather it was just perfect, and very tasty.
It may have been wet outside but after a fine day many people won a fun
prize and that’s what its all about. A fine day was had by all.
Precious few shine like lone stars in the sky
PSC Golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday November 18
Treasure Hill
(Stroke)
Treasure Hill and Country Club, always a pleasure to
play, hosted a stroke play competition in two flights: A flight 0 to 19 and
B flight 20 and upwards. There were 11 groups of players, many of whom were
to perform, not well, but just a precious few who were to shine like lone
stars in the sky.
Wayne
Koch
Wayne Koch, playing out of his skin, produced a
magnificent round of net 65 to win the A flight by a street, with in second
place half a mile behind, our own Don Richardson. Definitely not Dave’s
father. In third was Philippe Berra on net 72 ahead of Brian Holden on net
73 in fourth place.
Irishman Jim Flanagan likewise destroyed the B flight
with an excellent net 66 ahead of Cees Bosman on net 72 and Barry Kerr in
third on net 73. Fourth place was decided on count back with Kurt Persson
winning ahead of Koji Yamada, both on net 76.
Jim
Flanagan
Near pins: No 2 Paul Wragby, No 6 Jim Winfield, No 13
Paul Fager and No 17 Brian Holden.
Long putts: No 9 Dan Heidebo and No 18 John Swanson.
Thursday
November 21
Phoenix
(Monthly Mug-Stroke)
Are the months getting shorter or are we getting older?
The probability is only the one, as this month’s Monthly Mug was brought
forward, because next week the PSC has one of the highlights of the Year
when the Cafe Kronborg aids and assists in Papasan Ray Rogers’
Thanksgiving Tournament at Pattaya.
Bjarne
(left) presents the coveted Mug to winner Hwan Yong Hwan.
This month the turnout was very good as usual with many
old friends coming back to town, and the party was in an upbeat mood as the
players departed for Phoenix, all sure they would play the game of a
lifetime to bring their name to the fore.
With the Mug being won on net 62 and net 60 over the last
two months it was felt the winner would have to produce something special;
however, as we stood on the first tee the wind lifted and many a ball was
blown to parts unknown and the day became a tough fight.
The course was in fine condition with the tees back, and
the greens were well cut and extremely tricky so as the round progressed it
gradually became apparent that unless someone came out of the woodwork the
low rounds of the last two months would be a distant memory.
There is always one isn’t there? However, with only two
cards to come in things were looking as if for the first time for many
months the winner was not going to break net 70. In the lead in the A flight
(0 to 19) was Paul Fager with net 70 and in the B flight (20+) Cees Bosman
led with net 73, a far way from last month.
Then with the last 2 cards came the Chinese/Japanese
influence and shattered the rest.
The winner of the A flight with a net 70 was Paul Fager,
second on net 72 was that man Ebrahim and third with a net 73 was Kris
Helgason continuing his fine form of late.
The winner of the B flight with a net 69 was Koji Yamada,
second on net 73 was Cees Bosman beating Dick Worden on count back into
third place on count back.
And the winner was a gentleman who has been playing with
us for the last few months and finally came good as Hwang Yong Hwan shot a
net 65 to win the mug.
Near pins: M4 Cees Bosman, M8 Wayne Koch, O5 Werner Strub
and O7 Les Phillips.
Long putts: M9 Gary Austin and O9 Bob Nelson.
Gibson shoots career best in Diana Seniors
by Mike Franklin
John Gibson scored forty-four Stableford points and shot
a ‘career best’ to win the Seniors Division in the November Diana
Seniors & Ladies Open at Pattaya Country Club. Runner-up in the Seniors
Division was Tosh De-Mester with thirty-nine points.
John
Gibson shot a ‘career best’ to win the November Diana Seniors &
Ladies Open Seniors Division.
Dave Earthrowl’s forty points in the Super Seniors
Division was enough to claim the winner’s trophy, with Terry Phur beating
Jal Anderson on count back, both with thirty-seven points.
Nattaporn (Ploy) Thongpen won the Ladies Division for the
second successive month with forty points, and Mam Trayling was runner-up
with thirty-six points.
Near pins were claimed by Jack Mosely, Stan Axon, Bill
Jones and Ploy. Chris John putted 18 ft to win the long putt on the ninth,
beating Ed Trayling’s optimistic 1 ft effort which he had the audacity to
put on the pin card. But then you never know, as very short putts have won
it before.
However, putt of the day came from Roger Pidcock at the
eighteenth as he stroked the ball uphill around 50 ft and into the hole.
Back at the Green Bottle, new and returning faces were
welcomed in the shape of Bill Smith, Mark Coomber, Jack Cherry, Dave
Robinson, George Butlin, William Macey, Jack Gayer and Derek Reading.
The usual complimentary snacks accompanied the prize
giving after a good day, with John Cole and Richard Livingston looking after
the administration and scoring for the field of forty-seven golfers.
Indications are that the busy season is here!
The December Diana Seniors & Ladies Open has been moved to January
2nd to leave the Christmas holiday clear. The January Open will be on
Thursday January 30th. Sign-up for both at the Green Bottle or at the Diana
Driving Range, North Pattaya.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
I want to wish all ex-pats a very Happy Thanksgiving. I
know it’s the day after in Land of Smiles but in America Thanksgiving is
happening today. Tis the time of year when Yanks and POMS give thanks. The
Yanks celebrate tossing the Brits out. “We tossed you out.” The POMS
celebrate saying, “We were glad to be rid of the likes of you.”
David Tua has signed to fight Hasim Rahman on March 1.
The winner gets the Holyfield - Byrd winner for the IBF Heavyweight title.
When’s the Byrd-Holyfield fight? March 1. It’s a double dipper at the
Thomas & Mack in Las Vegas.
Fernardo Vargas has been suspended for 9 months and fined
$100,000 USD for testing positive for steroids after his fight with Oscar
DeLaHoya. It was a 4-1 vote of the Nevada Commission which rejected
Vargas’s “dog ate my homework defense”.
As he readies to celebrate the 75th Birthday of His
Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great on December 5th, “The Thai
Tyson”, Yodsanan 3K-Battery’s chances of his next battle being against
Joel Casamayor have narrowed to 2. Slim and None.
It has been chronicled that even a warm body is too much
for the big mouthed linguini-spined Casamayor. After a lot of useless
jabbering Casamayor has chosen to fight little known or talented Yori Vargas
(23-3) on December 20.
Meanwhile, Yodsanan’s fight against Lamont Person
“The Fighting Postman” on the 5th will be broadcast live from 3:30 p.m.
to 6 p.m. on National Channel 7. Want to attend? No problem. The event at
the Royal Park in Bangkok is free. No charge. Nothing. Zero. Zip. Would
suggest that you leave early, like today, as 100,000 are expected.
One of the better boxing judges in the world is Anek
Hongtongkam of Thailand. He almost qualifies for permanent residence status
in Las Vegas as he works every major WBC in Glitter Gultch. At least it
seems that way. He was there for the recent Morales-Ayala WBC title fight.
Having read in the Mail that Pattaya was soon to have casino gaming and
owing to the fact that Las Vegas is the gaming capital of the world I
decided to ask Mr. Hongtongkam about his thoughts. He said, “I have not
heard anything about it. I do not think it will happen because all the poor
people will lose their money.”
As I was on my best behavior I declined to point out that
“poor” people don’t have any money and that’s why they’re poor. I
could have brought up good old Robin Hood, one of the original POMS, who
robbed from the rich. Now if the poor had money he could have doubled his
opportunities by robbing them...
Did I mention that Super Bantamweight Somsak
Sithchatchawal (29-1-1) won a unanimous decision over Andries Dick in 12?
Yep, that was a couple of weeks ago.
Tomorrow night in Osaka Japan Ponsaklek Wonjongkam (44-2)
puts his WBC Flyweight title on the line against Hidenobu Honda (25-1). If
some think that the lanky left-handed Thai is taking a chance, in the words
of Joe Pesi “Forgetaboutit”. Wonjongkam may well be the best flyweight
in the world. No one would ever say that about Honda. His wins have come
against fighters with no “discernible record” which should lead to the
phrase “paid workout”. Honda is also a natural “light flyweight” so
he’s moving up without a lot of power. “Piece of cake” for Wonjongkam.
Would love to see him in against Eric Morel (32-0) the WBA champ but
that’s wishful thinking. WBC and WBA don’t mix. The name Morel may ring
a bell as he disposed of Thailand’s Denkaosan Kaovichit (20-1) last month
via the 11 round TKO route. Bet the ranch on Wonjongkam, but he won’t beat
his 34 second first round KO of Daisuke Naito in April.
Was that a record? Yep. It was the quickest KO defense in
flyweight history. The 34 seconds eclipsed the old record of 0:58 set by
Frenchman Emile (Spider) Pladner (42-2-2) against U.S. Frankie Genaro
(83-23-9) on March 2, 1929. Had to be a lucky punch. A Frog KOing a Yank in
0:58. The rematch took place a little over a month later. April 18 to be
exact. This time Genaro would prevail but not without a bit of controversy.
He won with a 5th round disqualification. The story as reported by the
United Press of the day:
“There were three judges: one American, one French and
one Swiss. The American and the Swiss judges concurred in disqualifying
Pladner for a low left hook which floored Genaro for the count in the fifth,
but the French judge refused to agree, declaring that Pladner had won every
round. French fight fans were greatly upset. When Genaro and his seconds
left the ring, they were attacked by spectators. Bottles were hurled, and
Bill McCarney (Genaro’s manager) was struck by a French boxer. A spectator
kicked Genaro in the stomach. Pladner said he was through fighting as a
flyweight, and would henceforth turn his attention to the bantams.”
Genaro would defend the title five more times. Pladner
was a man of his word. In the next 7 years he would have more than 81 fights
going 58-15-8. In the years 1931, 34, and 35 he fought an unfathomable 16
times in each year. Today that would be a career. How about them apples?
Pattaya Water Sports Festival 2002 draws big crowd of speed lovers to Jomtien Beach
A massive number of thrill seekers lined the beach at
Jomtien to watch the speed boat races this past weekend. The beach was alive
with the spirit competition and eager crowds of residents and tourists, both
Thais and foreigners, cheered the racers on as they turned the 2-day Pattaya
Water Sports Festival 2002 into a carnival atmosphere.
Competitors
start off the beach and into rough seas for the jet ski part of the
competition.
Mayor Pairat Suttithamrongsawat presided over the opening
ceremonies on November 23rd and then let the fun begin.
The races were divided into 8 categories: 85 horsepower
speed boats, 40-horsepower speed boats, under 650 cc Jet-ski, 800 cc
Jet-ski, Jet-ski run-about pro-modified 800 cc, Jet ski run-about stock 800
cc, Junior run-about stock, and over 40 years of age racers.
The winners received cash prizes and trophies from the
mayor.
Results of the Pattaya Water Sports Festival 2002
Speedboat 85 horsepower
1. Kriangkrai Khongkhao
2. Niphon Arunseang
3. Wanphen Sawangdao
Speedboat 40 horsepower
1. Sasithorn Ongart
2. Pongpot Gnamsawang
3. Toi Service
Yamaha One Make Race 650 cc
1. Vinai Puanglek
2. Vichit Sukhsomboon
3. Vichai Sonthiraksa
Novice Roundabout 800 cc Stock
1. Theerawat Klaothip
2. Monthien Siriwatthankul
3. Theera Setthura
Junior Roundabout 800 cc Stock
1. Supphadej Tharnsai
2. Supack Setthura
3. Chatchanant Siriwatthanakul
Open Roundabout 800 cc Super-Stock
1. Chockuthit Molee
2. Phanom Khunjeng
3. Phanusak Techasiri
Junior player, Apivith takes out the big boys in the last Tibhar Table Tennis Tournament
Preparations underway for major tournament next month
Thirteen year old Apivith defeated the big boys to take
the top spot in the 18 year old singles title in the last Tibhar Table
Tennis, held on November 9 and 10. Apivith completes a round of
six-tournament wins after only training for 3 months.
Coach
and tournament organiser Thomas Kunzelmann presents Apivith with his sixth
trophy this year at the November Tibhar Table Tennis Tournament held at Mike
Shopping Mall.
Thomas Kunzelmann, coach and tournament organizer said,
“Apivith has come a long way after only three months of training at the
Tibhar Table Tennis Center. He was previously under a local coach who told
me that it would take a long time for him to get anywhere but in reality, he
has a real talent.”
Apivith defeated Saranyou from Ping Pong Pattaya to take
the first prize in the boys 18 year old singles category, whilst players
from the Pattaya Ping Pong Club dominated other categories in what was
predominantly a large mix of Eastern Seaboard players from the navy base in
Sattahip, Assumption College Sriracha (ACS), Sriracha and Pattaya Clubs.
The November tournament was the finale of monthly
competitions for the year. The December Grand Tournament is scheduled for
December 7 - 10, which will probably be one of Thailand’s largest table
tennis tournaments with winners receiving their share of 100,000 baht prize
money.
The tournament is held in cooperation with Mike Shopping
Mall and the First International TIBHAR Table Tennis Training Center
Thailand. For further information in English and Thai contact email: [email protected]
Results:
Boys U10s Doubles
1. Anan-Sutti (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Art-Apivith (Mike-Tibhar)
3. Benz-Tpam (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Boys U10s Singles
1. Sutti (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Penipan (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Atapon (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Boys U14s Doubles
1. Nakalin-Grpravat (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Art-Apivith (Mike-Tibhar)
3. Benz Tpam (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Boys U14s Singles
1. Theerapong (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Saranyou (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Surasit (Mike-Tibhar)
Boys U18s Doubles
1. Benz-Tpam (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Art-Oh (Mike Tibhar)
3. Nakalin-Grpravat (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Boys U18s Singles
1. Apivith (Mike Tibhar)
2. Saranyou (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Theeraway (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Men’s Doubles
1. Songyos-Chaloen (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Ernst-Horst (Mike Tibhar)
3. Jakrit-Kittisak (Ping Pong Pattaya)
Men’s Singles
1. Jakrit (Ping Pong Pattaya)
2. Songpjon (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Apivith (Mike Tibhar)
Men’s Over 40s Doubles
1. Ernst-Horst (Mike Tibhar)
2. Songyos-Chaloen (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Montry-Steven (Ping Pong Pattaya-Mike Tibhar)
Men’s Over 40s Singles
1. Chaloen (Navy)
2. Songyos (Ping Pong Pattaya)
3. Thomas (Mike Tibhar)
Mio’s team wins the league
Cafe Kronborg Monday Bowling League
On Monday Nov. 18, Mio’s team won the league in a nail
biting final against Tue’s team. Mio’s team secured the title by only 4
pins - the match wasn’t determined until the last ball was rolled. The
match finished in a 2-2 draw, giving Mio’s team just enough to keep their
spot atop the league. Special mention should be made of Tukata, who bowled
well above average for Mio’s team, giving the captain her 2nd league win.
The
winning team (from left): Mio, Otto, and Tukata.
Kran’s team finished in 3rd place by winning 3-1
against Bill’s team, with Kran showing the way with her 203 and 215 games
and 616 series, helped by Suraphan’s 202 game. Nual had a 219 game for
Bill’s team.
In the last match La’s team had a good day and beat
Jeed’s team 3-1, in part due to Toy’s good bowling for La’s team.
The only other 200+ game came from Porn who rolled a 213.
Runners
up (from left): Porn, Sven, Tue, and Gert.
The league enjoyed the best turnout of the season with 26
players, and a good final that came down to the very last game, as bowlers
have been used to in the Kronborg league.
200+
bowlers for the week (from left): Kran, Suraphan, Porn, Nual.
The new season will start Monday Dec. 2 at PS Bowl in Central Pattaya.
New teams will be set up on the day, and new bowlers are always welcome.
Thanks to all the players that made this season another good one.
House of the Golden Coin knocked out of trophy race
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Shakey Pete’s won all four points for the second week
in a row and knocked the House of the Golden Coin out of the league trophy
race. House of the Golden Coin has lost 12 points in the last three weeks.
Tui led the Shakey Pete’s team with a 504 series and Mio was best for the
Golden Coin with games of 222, 179, and 179, for a 580 series.
games
of the day were rolled by (L to R) Kran 203, 209, Konrad 215, and Mio 222.
VFW Post 9876 won four points from the Three Sisters
behind Pin’s 533 pin count and are assured of at least a third place
trophy.
Nice & Sleazy took three points from the Winchester
Club with Porn leading her team with a 527 series.
Cafe Kronborg has been very strong at the end of this
league and they took all four points from Cafe Ole. Kran bowled games of 203
and 209, and a 547 series, Konrad had a 215 game, 495 series, Suraphan
knocked down 543 pins and Bill blew away 517 for Cafe Kronborg. Cafe Ole had
no chance at all in this match.
This Friday is the last week of this league and the first
place team will play the second place team, third place team will play the
fourth place team, fifth and sixth and seventh and eight will play for
position. VFW Post 9876 will be playing for second or third place and Nice
& Sleazy and Winchester Club will be playing for a second or third place
trophy and one team will end up empty handed.
New league starts on December 6
Bowlers are invited to join the next league, which will start on December
6. After next week there will be a fun bowling Friday at which time new team
members are selected by a blind draw. All PSC members are invited to bowl in
the new league and we are hoping to have ten teams participating. Teams are
formed of four players. If you want to sponsor a team you can select the
captain of your team but the other members will be selected by a blind draw.
Come and enjoy with us for the next 30-week league.
Fitness Tips
G’day Readers, Yep, we are again off into several
different directions this week, and I hope you get something out of it.
Stay fit to reduce death risk
I bet that one shocked you. A recent study published in
the New England Journal of Medicine found that a low fitness level posed the
greatest risk of death among people who had cardiovascular disease than any
other risk factor. This is promising news for people who suffer from
traditional risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol,
but who manage to maintain a high level of fitness.
Six thousand two hundred men participated in a treadmill
test for cardiovascular disease. It was found that the risk of death from
this disease decreased over six years as fitness levels increased.
Participants with the lowest fitness levels increased their chance of dying
by almost four times compared with the fittest group. Reduce your risk
exposure, get fit!
Healthy hearts all round
Exercising to reduce blood pressure may not be a high
priority for many of you younger campers. So Mums and Dads, take a look at
this for your kiddies. A study published in the April (2002) issue of Annals
of Internal Medicine revealed that exercise can reduce blood pressure in
just about anyone, regardless of age, weight, gender, race or current blood
pressure level.
Previous studies have established that regular exercise
reduces blood pressure and decreases the risk of heart disease but it was
not known whether it works for some groups of people and not others.
One fatty meal can cause a lifetime of damage
You may have been advised that a lapse in the diet every
now and then is okay, but is it really? A new study published in the April
(2002-yep, I got a lot out of it) issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine
shows that a single high-fat meal can cause problems with your heart and
circulation.
The study evaluated 15 healthy men who each consumed a
liquid meal containing 1,200 calories, 100g of fat, 50g of saturated fat and
300mg of cholesterol. (The things we have to do for studies!) When an artery
becomes blocked the blood vessels that surround it expand to compensate for
the restricted flow of blood. Coronary flow reserve is the difference
between the normal flow of blood and this compensated blood flow. The study
found that coronary flow reserve decreased by almost 18%.
It was also found that triglycerides in the blood
significantly increased only hours after eating the high-fat meal. When fed
a meal containing only 10 grams of fat there were no changes noted in
triglyceride levels. However, how many of us have meals with as little as 10
grams of fat in them? Very few.
According to the healthy eating flier published by
McDonalds Thailand with information base source being from McDonald’s
Nutritional Information Center in 1997, a McDonalds junior has the lowest
fat content of all their sandwiches/fries menu with 10 grams of fat. Who has
only a junior burger for a meal?
Don’t look at me, I have 1 day per week of eating fatty
food but I do my best to train it off during the following 6 days. The above
might be taking things to extremes but it was worth a look
Drink full fat milk to avoid asthma
A recent study by a group of scientists at Monash
University found that people who consumed full-cream milk were 34% less
likely to suffer from asthma than those who drink the light or low fat
alternatives.
Many people who are diagnosed with asthma are encouraged
to modify their diet and most end up cutting out dairy products. The study
also suggests that sufferers who are advised to alternate full-fat versions
with low-fat or non-dairy versions are being misguided. It was found that
adults who regularly consume soy milk and ricotta cheese are twice as likely
to be asthmatic. To reduce their risk of asthma by up to 18% adults should
eat apples, pears or leafy green vegetables such as lettuce, endives and
silverbeet.
Now that lot should cause a stir.
Carpe’ Diem
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