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Jeff Jacobs and Chaowalit Kuajaroon retain their titles
8th Jet Ski Kings Cup Thailand Open 2003
Damri Muangkaew
Ten times world champion Jeff Jacobs from the Kawasaki
USA team proved his mastery on the water to take another Pro Ski title in
the Jet Ski Kings Cup Thailand Open held off Jomtien Beach last weekend.
Chaowalit Kuajaroon, riding for Thailand’s Flamingo
team thrilled the home crowd in the Pro-Am Runabout 800 Superstock class,
retaining his top spot in the competition for another year.
 Mayor
Pairat Suthithamrongsawat (center) with the winners Pratompong Issarakankul,
Chaowalit Kuajaroon, Jeff Jacobs and Dustin Fartning after the prize
presentation.
Pratompong Issarakankul, riding for Thailand’s Senneaw
was also in the limelight having won Pro-Am Sport 800 Superstock class,
while Dustin Fartning (USA), team Kawasaki was on top of the ladder in
Pro-Am Runabout 1200 Superstock class for an action packed weekend on the
water.
 Racers
accelerate from the start line.
Opening ceremonies took place with royal representatives
placing the prestigious trophies in front of a picture of HM the King amid
hundreds of competitors and support teams and even more spectators.
Wittaya Khunpluem, Chonburi parliamentary member presided
over the opening ceremonies on Saturday morning before the action began on
the water with a total of 8 classes competing for trophies and cash prizes.
 ‘J’
Jethrin Wattanasin is carried away on a stretcher after breaking a rib in a
jet ski crash.
The Jet Ski Kings Cup is a major round on the
international circuit drawing professional, amateur and novice riders from
around the globe to compete in the prestigious event.
Last weekend’s competition, hosted in Pattaya by the
Thailand Jet Sports Boating Association (TJSBA) and the international body
IJSBA, was supported by numerous organizations. In his opening speech Vira
Susangkornkanj, head of the TJSBA said, “The TJSBA has received a great
deal of cooperation from both the government and private sectors. The
King’s Cup can only boost Thailand’s position (as a host of) world
competition. This year we are very happy to again welcome the IJSBA. Thai
riders have proved their ability and skill on the world circuit and this
event can only further develop Thailand’s sporting ability and promote
further opportunities for tourism.”
Racing began shortly after 10 a.m. with fast and furious
action on the water and in the afternoon more excitement as ‘J’ Jethrin
Wattanasin, well known in the TV, Movie and musical circles crashed his jet
ski breaking a rib, being forced to withdraw from the event altogether.
Two days of fine and varied conditions proved to be yet
another tough year off Jomtien beach and saw the best of the field engage in
a heated battle for the right to be called best of the best. The competition
was broadcast around the nation, once again placing Pattaya on center stage.
Windsurfing finals this weekend
Second and final rounds of the Thai International Siam Cup 24 Lady’s Challenge and Formula Experience Asian Championship 2003
The deciding round of the windsurfing
competition in the Thai International Siam Cup 24 Lady’s Challenge and
Formula Experience Asian Windsurfing Championship 2003 are setting off this
weekend followed by a steady first round of competition from Saturday
December 6.
 Wittaya
Khunpluem, provincial MP and chairman of the Chonburi Sports Association
shakes hands and talks to a young windsurfer during his visit to Jomtien
Beach. Wittaya presided over the official opening.
Last Saturday’s event drew ladies from around the world
to participate in the annual event off Jomtien beach, hosted by the Thai
Windsurfing Association. Wittaya Khunpluem, provincial MP and chairman of
the Chonburi Sports Association presided over the opening in front
competitors, supporter’s, spectators and honored guests.
Windsurfers from 10 countries including USA, France,
Germany, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and
Thailand set their sails off Jomtien for the Lady’s challenge and Mistral
One Design competition held from December 6-9 while others moved onto the
Asia Championship winding up this weekend on December 14.
Thai Airways Plc has sponsored the event and with such
backing, providing wind is good, it will be a spectacular sight off the
shores of Jomtien.
The final results and trophies will be presented on
Sunday, December 14.
PSC Christmas Party
The annual Christmas party is now being
arranged; hopefully it will be the best one yet.
There will be an International buffet, lots of
spirits, beer and of course the fabulous lottery consisting of GOLD as
well as many other nice prizes.
The party will again be held at the Town In Town
Hotel, doors open at 7 pm on Wednesday December 17. A nominal charge for
members is 300 baht, members are allowed to bring one guest at a charge
of 600 baht. The reason for limiting members to one guest is that we
expect a full house and do not want to turn members away.
Tickets are required and will be on sale at the Pattaya Sports Club
office starting on Monday December 1 through the December 16, unless sold
out. Please bring your valid PSC card when purchasing tickets.
Caf้é Kronborg moves into fourth place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Cafe้ Kronborg moved ahead of Shakey Pete’s into
fourth place after week 18 of the PSC Friday Bowling league. Captain Kran
led her Kronborg team with a fine 559 series to take three points from
Brother D.
 200
bowlers Nual, Gert and Dang.
VFW Post 9876 remained in first place taking three points
from Night Life. Gert led VFW with a 218 game and 559 series and Bill
knocked down 512 pins. Somrak was best for Night Life with a 202 game,
530-pin count, and Dang rolled a 201 game. House of the Golden Coin took
three points from Nam Tip with Captain Mio leading her team with a 518
series. Lenz, bowling as a spare, knocked down 515 pins. Jack & Tar also
won three points from Three Sisters behind Captain Nual’s 202 game, 508
series, and Peter’s 502-pin count. Nice & Sleazy moved out of last
place after taking four points from Cafe้ Ole.
Mai knocked down 542 pins for Cafe้ Ole but could not win a single
point in the match. Suphan knocked over 523 pins to lead Alt Koelle to a
four-point sweep over Shakey Pete’s.
Sunday Quiz League
Pattaya Table Tennis Classic Championship draws hundreds of players
Sporting activities for the regions youth are on the increase and one such
sport is Table Tennis. Last Friday morning the Pattaya Table Tennis club
held a championship tournament at Mike Shopping Mall drawing interest from
the local youth players.
 Hundreds
of table tennis players signed up for the 3-day championship held at Mike
Shopping Mall.
The fifth floor was the scene for the opening rounds as
well as a special VIP friendly between Pattaya mayor, Pairat
Suthithamrongsawat and Chanyuth Hengtrakul, advisor to the minister or
tourism and sports. The friendly game kick started the day’s play with
juniors in 7 age groups playing to win in the Under 18s, under 8s, 10s, 12s,
14s and 16s age groups.
President of the Pattaya Table Tennis Club, Sanga
Kijsamrej said the competition was aimed at improving skills and
sportsmanship with each player learning the value and hardship of winning,
losing and fairness.
Starting on Friday and ending on Sunday players and their families
watched with interest to see who would win, not only the championship but
also the VIP match. Mayor Pairat proving a little more nimble at the table
took 5 points off Chanyuth’s 2 points setting up the event for a fun 3
days of competition.
Lawn Bowling League
Fishermen return with hands full of fish
The Flying Dutchman, with
captain Dang in charge, landed on their recent fishing trip 2 barracudas, a
big pompano, queen fish and three nice snappers. Seen here is Kees, Theo,
Wolfgang and owner Joost displaying the catches of the day.
Wednesday Quiz League
Orienteering at it’s best
IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Monday, December 1
Green Valley
Country Club
Stroke Play 1st Division
1st Mikael Andersson, 70
2nd Harry Riley, 71
3rd Terry Phur, 75
2nd Division
1st Trevor Edge, 72
2nd Ray Walton, 73
3rd Fred Ewins, 74
Another day, another tournament at Green Valley, and
yes, yet another course layout. The last four times that The Haven had
played at Green Valley, the holes and the order in which they were to be
played had changed and the days competition was another golden opportunity
to try to out guess the local guru of alteration. By the results it could
be seen that only those with vast experience in orienteering or years of
working with tracking animals or blind dogs were able to master the task.
In the first division Mikael Andersson put to good use
his years of struggle over the frozen Tundra of the Nordic landscape to
head Wee Harry Riley, who benefited from his members local knowledge and
presumably the daily handout to members showing the exact configuration of
the day. Not surprisingly it was another member, Terry Phur, in third
place.
The second division was led by Trevor Edge, who also
used his years of trekking through the worlds wastelands with the British
Army to good effect to just edge the win from yet another member in the
form of Ray Walton. Fred Ewins was the only podium place not to have
previous experience to assist him and attributed his success to “the
blind leading the blind”.
The twos were shared between Dave Howden, Olop Malmberg,
Tony Barritt, Doug Campbell, Harry Riley, Bob Lindborg and Stephen Beard.
Prior to the prize giving Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA Professional, welcomed new members Travis Mitchell, Volker
Esser and Christopher Aanes. He also welcomed back Doug Campbell, Trevor
Edge and Derek McArdle.
Wednesday
December 3
Khao Kheow
Country Club
Stableford
1st Division
1st Al Rolnik, 36
2nd Chris Davisson, 34
3rd Doug Campbell, 32
4th Mikael Andersson, 31
2nd Division
1st Trevor Edge, 30 cb9 16
2nd Gary Austin, 30 cb9 15
3rd Sandy McKee, 29
4th Roar Berger, 28 cb9 16
5th Bob Lindborg, 28 cb9 11
6th Ray Walton, 28 cb9 8
The greens at Khao Kheow over the B and C courses were
back to their normal speed, that is fast to lightning, and the scores
generally reflected that, even though the course in general was found to be
in A1 condition, mastering it was another matter altogether.
Al Rolnik took the first division by being the only
player to match his handicap and easily led Chris Davisson by two shots to
claim the win. Mikael Andersson, though not quite able to repeat his form
of the previous outing held third place by some distance.
No one was more surprised than Trevor Edge when he again
won the second division, although he could only manage six shots worse than
the last occasion, it was enough to just pip Gary Austin on count back.
Sand McKee took sole charge of third place ahead of a gaggle of players in
the minor places. Roar Berger, winning his first trophy out of The Haven by
virtue of an unmatchable countback of sixteen, led these. Ray Walton, after
securing twenty points on the front, slumped over the back nine to eight
and therefore lost out to Bob Lindborg’s measly eleven, to claim the last
spot on the podium.
The twos were shared between Chris Davisson and Al
Rolnik, who had two.
Before presenting the prizes, Richard welcomed new
members Bill Cameron, Jonathan Pratt, Noel Lumanog, together with Martin
and Alex Hartley.
PSC Golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday, December 1
Treasure Hill Golf
and Country Club
Stableford
The Treasure Hill Golf Club was host for a Stableford
Competition in two flights, A Flight 0 to 16 , and B Flight, 17 and up. The
course was in fine condition but the wind was blowing a gale.
 Bob
Benda, B flight winner and best round of the day.
Roger Pidcock took the A Flight with 37 points, Bill
Hewitt was second with 35 points and Bob Hector was third with 34 points
beating Bob Pearce on countback.
Bent Moeller took the B Flight on a trio of countbacks
all on 36 points. Dave Richardson was second and Eddie Grogan third. In
fourth place was Philippe Berra with 35 points.
 Ted
Morris, A flight winner.
Near Pin: #2 Jon Pratt, #6 Don Richardson, #13 Bob
Pearce, #17 Mike Winfield.
Long Putt: #9 Dave Richardson, #18 Bob Pearce.
Thursday, December 4
Royal Lakeside Golf Club
Stroke
Happy days are here again with echoes of yesteryear when
we had so many playing we used to order a fleet of Baht Taxi’s. Of course
in this affluent age it has to be air-conditioned busses, maybe we are
getting soft.
 Players
enjoy a drink in the nice restaurant of the Royal Lakeside Golf Club.
Still with the list full on Sunday night, it was
necessary to phone the course to get a few extra tee times and this they
kindly provided. So a happy bunch set off in the busses to sleep away their
time till they arrived at the splendid premises of Royal Lakeside.
What a fine Clubhouse and a fine course, with fairways
with nice springy grass on, and greens difficult to read, but fast and fair.
Booking in was easy and the groups were soon on the first tee, but with so
many groups to get away it was a long time before the last group were away,
time to while away in the fine clubhouse for the early starters.
On the course it was a pretty free run only hampered by
the strong, gusty winds, that kept the scores in bounds, but we still had a
few scores that left their handicaps behind.
In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was that old warrior
Ted Morris with a net 69 three shots ahead of Per Krause with a net 72. In
third place was Kevin Riddell with a net 72 that could have been much better
except for a 9 on the ninth. In fourth place was Tim Holt with a net 74 on
countback over Don Richardson and Bill Hewitt.
In the B Flight we had the best round of the day as Bob
Benda came in with a net 67 just ahead of Ebrahim on net 67. The next two
places were decided on countback on net 74 as Kevin Dinan came third, Andre
Barril came fourth and Graham Buckingham just missed out.
Long Putt: #9 Udo Waack, #18 Per Krause.
Near Pin: #3 Ted Morris, #6 Tim Holt, #12 A Barril, #15 Ted Morris
Usa shows the boys how to do it
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the Bunker
A field of 40-plus Bunker Boys
and Belles travelled to nearby Siam Country Club on Tuesday, December 2, for
their weekly medal play tournament in comfortably warm and dry conditions.
They found the course poorly turned out with bare bunkers and arid,
bone-hard fairways, which made good contact essential. For many, however, it
was like playing shots from the car park.
The large field was cut at seventeen and under and
division two saw a fine tussle for second place between Gary Austin and Ed
Trayling, who both scored net 69. Paul Rose was “the man” however and
his round of net 68 was enough to win the division.
In division one Paul Butler drove to a successful net 74,
for third place and Bruce Ogilvie took second with his net 73, but way out
in front was the long hitting lady, Usa Chaiyosit, who used the advantage of
a lady’s course which was half a kilometre shorter, to teach the boys a
lesson in course management and take the major prize with her net 69. Gary
Austin shot two birdie twos and took the major share of the Bunker Super
Sawng award with Dickie Barbe firing the third birdie two of the day.
Nothing showed up the inconsistencies of golf more than Uwe Schroder’s
eleven on the seventeenth and his birdie on the final hole and his net 95
won for him the Bunker Banana Booby. Nevertheless, most people concluded
that a day such as this, on a poor course, was infinitely better than a day
in an opulent office!
Nowell does well at Chonburi
The Bunker Boys travelled to Century Chonburi on Thursday,
December 4, for their weekly stableford round and found the course in excellent
shape under clear skies. The field was cut at eighteen and under and in division
two nobody managed to beat par, probably because the constant watering of the
fairways led to very little run on the ball.
Richard Feltham persevered to gather 32 points but this
meagre total was not enough to catch Duncan Lee and Gary Austin, whose 34 points
saw them share the prize on the day.
In division one Paul Butler scored 33 points to take third
place with playing partner Wilf Latham going three better to take second, on 35.
The only golfer to break par on the day was Steve Nowell and his 38 points
contrasted with his shabby showing two days previously with the Bunker. Steve
also shared the Bunker Super Sawng award with playing partner Keith Smithson for
their birdie twos on the short par-three twelfth. At the other end of the field
Des Pearson, English through and through, except for a dash of Heineken and an
Aussie accent, obviously suffered in the heat and his poor card was signed by
Mr. Loy. If you are trying to avoid the bananas Des, hide from the boss!
PSC Golf from Bobby Joe’s 60’s bar
Friday, December 5
Eastern Star
Stableford
This playing golf from a bar on a day the bar is closed
can be pretty awkward, because not only is the bar closed when you get back,
but when you get to the golf course the players have to pay weekend rates.
Now, despite the fact that the players have been warned, it is always
preferable to have an Ambulance available as the odd heart attack usually
takes place. Whether it is the rates or the reality they will also have to
pay for food we will never know. I wonder whether we should play in black on
a holiday. Saves getting changed later.
 The
new and improved Eastern Star golf course.
Still, all met at Bobby Joe’s and were filled up with one
of his free filling breakfast before he threw us all out into the real World in
the mini bus at 09:00. The fact that it only turned up at 09:20 and left shortly
after didn’t matter, nor did the calls that came in from people lost in the
wilds of Thailand.
 Presentation
this time took place in the Eastern Star clubhouse.
Finally arriving at Eastern Star we played on a course that
is vastly improved on its re-opening, with very little of the problems it had
before. The course was a pleasure to play and many good scores were recorded
before Bob Benda came in way in front in his quest to regain his title of ‘The
Most Photographed In Pattaya’ from Tim Holt. Still some way to go but he is
very trying at the moment.
 The
course was a pleasure to play and many good scores were recorded.
Ever spent time at Eastern Star after golf? In my opinion
this is the most comfortable and pleasant restaurant of the lot, with food to
match, and in the temporary absence of our resident gourmet, Pete Galle, I
reckon their Chef’s Salad followed by Pancakes and Maple Syrup takes some
beating.
 Max
presents to Bob while Michael slips in at the back.
Presenting in this fine atmosphere was a pleasure and Max
found Bob ready to be photographed with him. For the regulars, and missing, and
poor, normal service will be resumed next week.
Winner: Bob Benda
Long Putt: Colin Bavington
 Max
presents a prize to Kevin Riddell.
Near Pin: Kevin Riddell (2), Bob Benda, Chris Beekois
Lucky Draw: Tim Holt, Michael Winfield, Cees Bosman, Andy Evans, Derek Brook.
Shenanigans Very Friendly Golf Society scrambles with Santa
Mike Franklin
Shenanigans landlord Kim Fletcher, seasonally assisted by
Shenanigans Director of Golf, Mike Franklin, have added festive elements to
the Pairs Scramble taking place on Tuesday December 23 at Eastern Star
Country Club & Resort, Ban Chang.
The ‘Santa Scramble’, specially for Shenanigans Very
Friendly Golf Society members and friends, features additional technical
prizes - four long putts and four near pins with men’s and ladies long
drives. The winning pair will receive a ‘Free Carvery Every Week for a
Year’ together with the ‘Santa Superstars’ trophy and a cuddly Santa
trophy each.
The runners-up will receive Champagne, and third place
winners bottles of Jameson.
An additional ‘Pairs’ prize will go to the best
Ladies Pair - most likely a Jug of Margaritas, and something for the best
Men’s and Mixed Pairs too.
Entry for all members and friends will be 200 baht and
that festively includes a Free Irish Coffee back at Shenanigans at the
prize-giving and party. Every player will also receive a personal
‘Christmas Good Wish’ Santa.
The ‘Santa Superstar’ winning pair will naturally
have privileged access on the night, to the exclusive Superstars Table,
which usually props up the Landlord between his hospitable sorties around
the Pub.
This is a fun, extra friendly and very festive event to wind up the
years’ golf program, so sign-up early at Shenanigans in Pairs please (and
do try to make up a four-ball). The field is limited to 60 players and we
will tee-off at the earlier time of 09.00 am.
3 Sisters Golf
Monday Dec. 1, Siam Country Club
A new month, an old winner. As usual Derek Brook is
always near the top. Today he again topped the field with an excellent 42
points scored on an improved course at Siam. With his big drives and
accurate short irons, Derek demolished the rest of the field.
Doug Douglas, back in town from work, shot 40 points to
come in a close second. With a large field of forty plus golfers it was a
good effort to come in second. The next closest were Kenny Mau and Rod
Perrin, both posting scores of 38.
Old Marvin Smith again got caught holding the bag with 17
points. But at 84 years old, just making it around the course is a
tremendous feat. I take my hat off to “Ole Marvin” as he still makes it
around the golf course swinging with the best of them. Clive Harris and Alan
Pearce tried to give Marvin competition for the bottom spot but had no
chance.
2003 Varuna Cup: ready to sail
Peter Cummins, Pattaya
After a year of the best sailing and regattas in the
Kingdom, and just in the wake of the highly-successful Seventeenth Phuket
King’s Cup, it is appropriate that 2003 goes out “under full sail”, so
to speak.
The last big international event on the sailing calendar
will be this weekend’s Varuna Cup, sailed, of course, off the Royal Varuna
Yacht Club, South Pattaya.
 The
Catamaran fleets in front of the Varuna Club-house.
With the perfect conditions currently being experienced
in the Northern Gulf, influenced by the forceful north-easterlies, it is
going to be a superb weekend. According to one of the forces behind many of
the events, Antony Chapman, upwards of 70 craft could well be at the start
line on Saturday, with Pattaya and Sattahip sailors being joined by a
contingent from Hong Kong and the now-ubiquitous Aussies who simply cannot
wait to come back to Thailand - for any reason. When that prime mover is a
regatta, the lads from Queensland’s Hobie Cat Australasia will be back in
full force.
Two big events have boosted the marine leisure industry
even as the year fades. Primarily, the Royal Thai Government has decided to
abolish the punitive import, excise and sundry taxes, which were crippling
the marine sector.
Then, just this week, the first Phuket International
Marine Expo, was successful beyond even the wildest expectations of the main
organizers, Grenville Fordham and Andy Dowden.
Thus the stage is set for an incredible surge in yacht
racing, cruising and marine sports generally in the Kingdom. To even
contemplate 70 craft for the Varuna Cup is a sign of the times.
Hobie Cat Australasia representative, Gary Baguley, who
had a huge range of new Hobies on display at the Expo, is extremely
optimistic about the future. Even at the Phuket show, interest was very high
and a number of the new craft were booked for sale (read, ‘sail’!).
A big line-up of sponsors assures the regatta of maximum
coverage: L’Oreal Thailand, Nantaburi Equestrian Sports Club, CB Richard
Ellis and the Fat Boys. Furthermore, so happy were the Hobie Cat people from
the recently-held Hobie Cat Championships of Thailand, that they are again
sponsoring, through Hobie Cat Australasia and Blue Wave Water Sports Asia
Company Limited.
Anyone interested in participating in (charter boats are available) - or,
just watching - the action over the weekend, should contact Antony Chapman;
e-mail Antony@bluewavewater sports.com or Gary Baguley, gary
@bluewavewatersports.com, or contact the Royal Varuna Yacht Club direct, tel
038 306 290; fax 038 250 115; e-mail [email protected]. Website:
royal-varuna-yacht-club.com
Pattaya Squash Club take part in British Club’s Squash Centenary Celebrations
The Pattaya Squash club was proud to be invited to play in an
International Squash Tournament to celebrate 100 years of squash at the
British Club Bangkok over the weekend of November 14-16. At the British
Club’s superb facilities on Silom road eight teams came together for a
weekend of competition and socializing.
 The
Polo Club winning team receive their trophies.
The British Club involved their top two teams, the Royal
Bangkok Sports Club Polo Club produced a team holding two Thai International
players, and Bangkok’s Muscle and Muscle team was also invited to play as
was Chiang Mai’s Gymkhana club. The two other teams came from Hong
Kong’s cricket and football clubs.
The standard of play was very high, yet Pattaya managed
to win their first match on Friday, beating Hong Kong’s Cricket Club by
three matches to two. By the end of play on Saturday, however, it was clear
that the Polo Club team and the team from Muscle and Muscle, both featuring
all Thai players, were setting the standards and so it was no surprise to
find these two teams competing for the first place on Sunday morning.
 Pattaya’s
captain John presents a trophy to Peter of the British Club.
By Sunday afternoon, after five brilliant final matches,
the Polo club team was congratulated as the victors. Muscle and Muscle took
the runners up trophies with the other six teams following behind.
Pattaya’s players, Bruce, Jan, Jurgen, John, Mike and team captain John
Nutkins can feel very pleased with their performances and should be
extremely proud that their relatively modest club is held with such regard
as to be invited to take part in such a tournament.
The weekend was a fantastic success for the British Club,
for squash and for all the players and spectators. All the matches were
played with tremendous sporting spirit and each player was warmly supported
and applauded. The British club were fantastic hosts and provided free
drinks and food for all players, spectators and friends throughout the
weekend. The event was concluded with a delicious buffet and a presentation
ceremony. After the winners and runners up had received their trophies and
deserved applause, each team captain thanked the British club for their
warmth and generosity and made a presentation in respect of 100 years of
squash at the British Club, Bangkok.
The Pattaya Squash Club plan to play team matches next
year against Chiang Mai’s Gymkhana club, Muscle and Muscle and, again,
against the British club.
The Pattaya Squash club plays every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at the
Ambassador City Hotel, Jomtien from 5 pm onwards. All new players welcome.
For more information phone Bruce Madge 060 515 725 or John Nutkins 038 414
593.
Smart cashes in - Scans roar on
MBMG International Casuals League (Week 3)
There
was an air of expectation on the pitches of Sukhumvit 105 as the
league’s most controversial star, Nicholas Smart made his long awaited
debut for the Mighty Dubliner against Pattana. Smart had missed his new
teams first game of the season on police recommendation, after receiving a
number of death threats from Bullshead fans, angry at what was perceived
as a money orientated move to their arch rivals.
Smart took the field to jeers from Pattana fans who,
eager to make the star as uncomfortable as they could, showered pitch with
one baht coins whilst loudly chanting ‘Mercenary’. Yet, Londoner Smart
rose to the occasion, smashing a brilliant debut hat trick as The Mighty
Dubliner rode out 3-0 winners.
However, the game was marred with some controversy as,
with the score line 3-0 with 10 minutes left, Smart paid no more attention
to the game as he began diligently collecting up the one baht coins that
were littering the touchline. In the post game press conference Smart
explained, ‘I’m just a simple Cockney boy trying to earn an honest
crust. My old mum used to say to us urchins, ‘look after the pennies and
the pounds will look after themselves’ and when I saw all them bahts
‘ow could I say no?
SCI went into their game with the Scandinavian Vikings
brimming with confidence after securing the Summer League the week before.
However, they were brought back down to earth with a bump, as the Anders
Andreas rifled home all four in the 4-1 hammering. After the game, a
disappointed SCI manager, MacGuigan, reflected: ‘I felt we’d turned a
corner after we clinched the Summer League. I was wrong’.
The Bullshead rebounded after their loss to the Vikings
last week with a 6-1 demolition of newly promoted Shrewsbury. At half
time, the game was locked at one all until Bullshead Coach, the wily Willy
Watts, brought on El Phenomenon, Fredrico Maradona, who bagged a hat-trick
in the space of ten minutes to claim the points.
Elsewhere, Racing Club Pattaya hammered a disappointing
British Club 5-1 and the French crushed the Germans 6-0 in a one sided
battle.
Results Week 3:
The Dubliner 3 - 0 Patana
Bangkok Blitz 1 - 5 Bangkok United
Racing Club Pattaya 5 - 1 British Club Casuals
SCI Gecko FC 1 - 4 Scandinavian Vikings
Bullshead Brazilians 6 - 1 AFC Shrewsbury
German All Stars 0 - 6 French Technip
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Straight away I want to wish a belated Happy Birthday to my
pal Patrick the Flying Frog. Last Saturday he passed another milestone. Much
better than passing gallstones but painful nonetheless. One thing that can be
said for one’s birthday it’s a lot better than not having one. The
alternative is forever.
While folks were wishing the Flying Frog well while chewing
down on free food there were a couple of heavyweights fights going on in New
York City. One of the Flying Frogs favorites, Vitali Klitschko (33-2), was in
against Kirk Johnson (34-2-1) whose ring appearances have been less than
stellar. His lack of anything against John Ruiz distinguished him as “just
another big mouth with no talent.”
While the Birthday Boy loves Klitschko the Square Ring
thought he was just another over hyped big guy with all the tools but no
operating manual. My opinion of V. Klitschko hasn’t changed even though he
went through Kirk Johnson like corn through a seagull. Johnson was pitiful and
that’s being kind. Klitschko got him out in two rounds. Johnson stinks. Joe
Mesi (28-0) showed that he’s not ready for prime time. He had the devils own
time eking a majority decision (94-94, 94-93, 95-93) over Monte “Two Guns”
Barrett (29-3). Both fighters ate canvas with Mesi building an early lead and
then hanging on. “I learned a lot from this,” said Mesi. One would hope so.
In celebration of the Birth of His Majesty King Bhumibol
Adulyadej there was a heck of a combination Muay Thai and International Boxing
Show last Friday. The card shown live on Channel 7 is estimated to have drawn
more than 100,000 in front of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Pongsith Wiangwisas
defeated the Arnel Porras, the Philippines, via a 4 round KO to, defend his PABA
Title.
It took 7 rounds for Pakpoom Jangponak to KO Mukendi Tshizubu
of the Congo. By far the biggest name on the card was Yodsanan 3K Battery the
WBA Champion Super Featherweight. He KO’d Frog Farid Dubourt in 7. On the Muay
Thai side I don’t really understand what the heck went on with Sureeya Sor.
Pleonchit (Thailand) won in 3 over Farid Villaume (France). The winner gets
1,000,000 Baht and a belt. Heck with that much Baht I’d buy my own belt.
In Japan Saturday night Ex-WBA 115-pound champ Yokthai
Sith-Oar (29-3-3) of Thailand fought to a majority draw with Manabu Fukushima,
24-6-2. OK, not a win but not a loss either. Sometimes kissing your sister
isn’t all that bad.
Probably the best of the Thai World Champions, WBA 130lb
champ Yodsanan 3K Battery (40-2-1; 33 KOs), makes the second defense of the
title he won by beating Lakva Shim last year. Friday was just a paid workout.
This time he takes one of those, “Are you sure this is the right time of year
to visit Japan?” He’s got a February 8 date with Japanese prospect Ryuhei
Sugita (25-1-2; 21 KOs). Why would a Thailand World Champion be traveling to
Japan to face a “prospect”? That is besides the money, no reason at all. It
took awhile for Yodsanan to hit the world stage. He was the PABA champ and
defended successfully 19 times. What about Sugita?
The quintessential Asian Boxing writer Joe Koizumi opines,
“Sugita is a non-stop puncher whose persistent body attack is his specialty.
Sugita fought to a fifth-round technical draw with Mexican Javier Jauregui, who
lately acquired the vacant IBF title by demolishing Levander Johnson in Los
Angeles this November. Yodsanan, 29, is a harder puncher, but Sugita, 27, is
more durable with his abundant stamina, so that it looks like it will be a
competitive fight of body punchers.”
Seems like just a short time ago, it was, that we reported on
the retirement of Danish Heavyweight Brian Nielsen, aka “The Danish Pastry”.
Well he may have said adios to the ring but still enjoys a dust up on occasion.
On this occasion he got sentenced to 40 days in the Monkey House for “punching
and threatening police officers in the middle of the night after a party”. He
was released after the verdict and will serve his sentence “at another
time.”
Really big fight card in Atlantic City Sunday morning Pattaya
Time. As it’s a Don King promotion you’ll probably be able to view it on one
of the channels in the Land of Smiles. 6 world championship fights all in one
night at one place. “Who would have believed?”
The lineup probably promises more than it can believer but
like everything in life there may be a “diamond in the pile.” Bernard
Hopkins (42-2-1) will defend his WBC, IBF, WBA Middleweight titles against
William Joppy (34-2-1). A couple of years ago this would have been a
“walk-over”. Little age beginning to show on Hopkins so the fight could be
interesting. Zab “The Jerk” Judah (29-1) fights for the minor WBO jr. Welter
belt against Jaime Rangel, Rosendo Alvarez (32-2) goes against Victor Burgos
((35-13) for the WBA/IBF jr. Fly title, Luis Perez (21-1) and Felix Machado
(23-4) for the IBF jr. bantam belt. Wayne Braithwaite (19-0) defends the WBC
Cruiser title against Luis Pineda. How good is Hasim Rahman (35-4) the conqueror
of “The Imperial One” Lennox Lewis? He’ll get former heavyweight chump
John Ruiz (38-5).
By far the best fight of the night or day, depending where
you are, will be Ricardo Mayorga (26-3) defending his three titles against Cory
Spinks (31-2). If the name rings a bell it should. Cory is the son of Leon.
There’s something to be proud of.
PH3 Run 1030
O.K, I’ve just spent the last three days on a bender, my
vision is fogged, I know I have dark rings around my eyes, can’t sleep, am
full of thoughts of girls and I keep having dreams about Energizer Bunny. What
is happening to me? I should be talking about this weeks run I think!
Well anyway, that’s what our acting GM G.K.W. asked me to
do. I tried to get out of it claiming that I have to take pictures and scan them
and stuff (costs time and money you know!), but he was not interested in
excuses. Rightly so, I suppose, as we all have to do our bit! He is not wearing
a sling anymore and when he gave me my orders he sounded sort of sober! So what
happened today is... hmm! Well I know I must have fallen over again. Alright
then, the good thing about having different Hares on the Monday Hash is the
variety of the type of run we do from week to week. This week was good at least
from my point of view. The A-site was not far from one that I used with
Salvatore back in 2001. A really good ‘A’ site next to a lake and surrounded
by Hills. Our car park attendant ‘Mrs. Head’ made sure we were all safe and
sound and our wheels were well away from steep inclines and slippery slopes!
Lots of familiar, happy, and smiling faces all around me. New
shoes dealt with and Hares called in who tell us to look for paper at the edge
of the lake. Well that was a wee bit of a ‘Go Hok’ but we were soon on our
way over the concrete ‘Spill way’ to our first check. Well that’s where I
went wrong the first time as I went left along the spill way to an FT. Followed
the pack to the far side of the lake and into the trees. Very dark in there and
not really a place to go thundering on as lots of spiky things with rocks and
creepy vines that defy all efforts to avoid.
I was behind a lot of people in there until we came to a
check next to a barbed wire fence. Luckily, I decided to follow some other
Hasher’s such as Karamba, R.R.H., Fini, VV and a few others through the fence
and up over a bit of a hump to the left. We half expected an FT at the top of
the hill but fortunately this did not happen and we were soon on our way down to
an open area of land with a convenient check to hold us back. The check worked
well as the rest of the pack arrived to go in the direction the front runners
had thought impossible. They solved the check and the rest of us had to follow
once again. On through soft ploughed fields we go and back through the barbed
wire fence. Another check on a dirt track. To the right led to the main road,
left (the way R.R.H. went) was the eventual On-In.
Front runners were back in around 35 minutes (R.R.H.).
Guzzling Grinch, Fini, Festering Streaker and others were close behind.
A refreshing run with common sense dictating that we should
not try a marathon so far out from town. Well done Hares. Time to get my chair,
grab a cold beer and relax as I take in the scenery. Got some help from Free
Willy on the number of runners today, over 100, I think. All too soon, it’s
time to go back to work as the circle is called. Ewok was missing this week and
so too was Energizer bunny so Dr Pinky kicked the circle off with the raffle.
With the main raffle over, Charlie Manson presented an extra prize that turned
out to be a little black T-shirt. I think a guy called Troy Brace won that one.
Hares on in, no problems there. Hares in again for the Hare
song. A sort of story about our infamous Hashers, Chang beer and Energizer
Bunny. That’s three times I have mentioned her name now and I haven’t even
gone to sleep. I think it’s getting worse!? Back to reality and Returnees
called in followed by some visitors from Canada (Flaming Stiffy-returnee),
Australia or Angeles (Colonoscopy) and Sheila Kennedy from Scotland. For some
reason I thought she was from Australia. That must have been the Bunny thing
affecting my grey cells again. We had at least one Visitor from the Angeles Hash
(Rat S**t). Well that’s automatic ice for him. Why is that?
RA Sir Airhead into the circle with a guy called Synvis who
likes painting pictures of fruit and gives names to them such as ‘I am a
Pig’! Well that is what the circle decided to name him when Sir Airhead called
for a vote. His girlfriend was named ‘Golden Pond’. I don’t think he will
forget the Monday Hash. It was a good day for naming as Sir Airhead kept the
theme going by naming Karamba’s Scottish friend “Xena Warrior Princess”. I
know she is a good runner but I can’t see her following Karamba over cliffs
and down waterfalls in canoes somehow. But then again, she must have met Karamba
somewhere! General Kidney Wiper back in again to present some Anniversary’s:
Midnight Star (50 run mug), Odd Job (100 Run Mug), The Guzzling Grinch (100 run
Mug), Mint Sauce (100 Run Mug) and Spaghetti Head who got a 30 Hared runs
T-shirt.
Good RA Steamy Lump into the circle who gives Hash s**t to
Needle D. Can’t remember why, must have been falling over or that Bunny thing
again! Sir Chicken F. takes over the circle and brings in Terminal 4 skin. He
tried to break into an Indian shop through the window but was turned in by his
sweatheart Miss Piggy and had to compensate for the repair of the Window to the
tune of 1,000 baht! Well actually, the truth is he fell off his bar stool
backwards and just managed to stop his fall with the window! Got to get off the
Chang T4.
Time for the Hash Hymn and get on the bus and into town to
the Scandi Bar for some of Pegleg’s really good food while enjoying one or two
of his cold beers. This should be the end of the story, but I think the bus had
a few problems getting started which meant that about twenty energetic Hashers
had to push it for a while, well that is, once they listened to the poor Driver
who was trying to tell them to remove the chocks from the Wheels! Is the Bunny
thing getting to others too?!
On On, T.
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