Tight scores in PSC’s 40th Members Tournament at Laem Chabang

Friday July 16 Laem Chabang

Once again it is the time of the year for ‘the changing of the guard’ as the Golf Chairman steps down to make way for the new one. The circumstances, Jerry Carpenter stepped up to be the new PSC President and Chris John stepped into the job. Good luck to him.

Long Drive Winner Sam from Hawaii

Apart from that it was business as usual, as essentially the same team carried on the fine work of last year. Booking in at Laem Chabang went on in its normal smooth manner, and on arrival at the tee, A or B, both nines in use, the start for the 106 Competitors was smooth and efficient. Indeed so well did it go, that the early starters even started early!

The format was as is normal these days, the A & B Flights playing stroke and the C, D and Ladies Flights playing stableford. This certainly aids the flow of play and ensures no massive scores on any hole, having said that there are always the odd players from the A or B Flights who do have the odd disaster.

Golf Chairman, Chris John.

The course, as is usual at this course, was in its usual pristine condition, and the players were well looked after. The fairways are always a pleasure to play off and the greens are fast and tricky. However, on the day, the course held strong, and the scores were not outstanding but reflected a good course played by good players and all the Flights and were decided by the slenderest of margins.

In the Ladies Flight, 0 to 40, despite a paucity of players, we had a tight match up with the first place only decided by one point. Saen Jaroenwong winning with 34 points ahead of Nora Haugsjordet with 33 points and Kanchaina Champanak in third with 30 points.

Flight Last’s, who had courage to stomp on.

In the A Flight we had a countback for first with two players on net 70 with the eventual winner being Perry McNeely with Eric Anttonen in second place and Bill Macey in third with a net 74.

The B Flight was also decided on countback. Both Ron Herbert and Mike Gerrard having a net 68 but Ron winning with Mike second. Noteworthy, was that Mike actually shot 49 on his first nine and 35 on his second, but as he played the B course first he was well and truly buried. In third with net 71 was Darren Newman.

Flight Winners of A, C, D and L.

The C Flight was another tight tussle with Neville Jackson winning with 39 points and a countback for second with 37 points was won by Alan Pearce with Doug Maiko in third.

The D Flight, which usually runs away with the best scores of the day, was relatively subdued with the first three being within a point of each other. The winner with 39 points was Dan Sell ahead of a countback for second with 38 points won by Klaus Schiffer with Gordon McKnight in third.

Low Gross and High Points Winners.

Now to the main prizes of the day and the ‘Low Gross’ was won by Darrel Ottaway with a gross 80, and the ‘Highest Points’ was won by Park Duc Eun with 41 points. I actually played with Park and he plays a game that will see his handicap fall swiftly.

However, ‘The’ most ‘Not’ chased after prize of the day was reinstated, and I shall save the best for last. Last in their Flights were Khantong Kristianson, Kevin McIntosh, Jean Paul Michaels, Willy Celis and last, but definitely least, the man who has been cleaning up for the last few weeks Dave Richardson. All received prizes to help Dave to clean up.

One last note is I also played with ‘Sam from Hawaii’ and he won the long drive with a massive blow, most people do not go that far on holiday.

Back in the clubhouse we were regaled with songs of yesteryear by Matt Kirkland, whilst Mike Gerrard was being held down in a corner. Not two on one day, good as they are. Then our new Golf Chairman said a few words, then a few more, as he awaited the results. Chris thanked all his helpers and made special mention all his sponsors who I will mention by name next month as I cannot find the list, slap my wrist.

The good stuff out to the way we were put in the hands of the emcee Alan Pearce who very ably declared the results whilst Chris presented the prizes. T.T.F.N.

Results:

Low Gross: Daryl Ottaway
High Points: Park Duc Eun
A Flight
Winner: Perry McNeely; Second Eric Antonnen; Third Bill Macy; Last: Kevin McIntosh
B Flight
Winner: Ron Herbert; Second Mike Gerrard; Third Darren Newman; Last Jean-Paul Michaels
C Flight winner: Neville Jackson: Second Alan Pearce; Third Doug Maiko; Last Dave Richardson
D Flight
Winner: Dan Sell; Second Klaus Schiffer; Third Gordon McKnight; Last: Willy Celis
L Flight
Winner: Saen Jaroenwing; Second Nora Haugsjordet; Third Kanchana Champanak; Last Kantong Kristianson
Long Drives:
A4 Sam from Hawaii (A + B Flights); Nora Haugsdorget (Ladies)
Long Putts:
A9 Ron Herbert(A + B Flights); Peter King (C + D Flights). #B9 Gerhard Schulz (A + B Flights); Steve Wilkins (C + D Flights).
Near Pins:

A2 John Hall (A + B Flights); Greg Mitchell (C + D Flights)

A7 Ken McKenzie (A + B Flights); Matt Kirkland (C + D Flights); Nora Haugsjordet (Ladies)

B5 John King (A + B Flights); Mike Seely (C + D Flights); Nora Haugsjordet (Ladies)

B8 Mike Gerrard (A + B Flights); Neville Jackson (C + D Flights); Nora Haugsjordet (Ladies)

Brother D moves into first place

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

Brother D took all four points from Three Sisters and moved back into first place. Three Sisters dropped to third place. Ooy led Brother D with a 215 game, 562 series and Bill had a 201 game, 547-pin count. Q Cars moved into second place as they took three points from Nam Tip. Lenz had a 545 series and Gert knocked down 513 pins for Q Car. Jeed was best for Nam Tip with a 535 pin total. VFW Post 9876 remains in fourth place but lost three points to Caf้ Kronborg. Captain Kran rolled a 205 game, 535 series and Tui had a 211 game, 512 series for Caf้ Kronborg. VFW Captain Bill rolled games of 194, 194 and 198 for a 586 pins total. Caf? Ole remained in fifth place as they won three points from House of the Golden Coin behind Dang’s 539 series. Jack & Tar swept Alt Koelle taking all four points in their match

200 bowlers: Tui, Bill, Kran, Rich and Ooy

Electric, Eclectic, Excitement

IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral

Green Valley saw the Bunker Boys take on the challenge of a two-day event every month and on Monday and Tuesday, July 12 and 13.

A large group visited to play a straightforward medal eclectic event. The first day saw the players ‘setting out their stalls’ and establishing the baseline from which the second day would be played. The course was well turned out and the greens were running at a slick speed of 9. From the start it was obvious that scoring would be difficult as the strong breeze took control of many a drive and the tees were well set back. The heroes of the day were to be three players from the same group, Harry Riley, Bob van Mol and Dale Shier who all posted scores of level par or better and they were matched by those of Bill Hewitt and Saranya Chaiyanont.

Harry held the advantage of a two shot lead by virtue of his fine first day score of net 69. Not to be outdone Bob van Mol and Dale Shier also had the honours of birdie two’s so all was set up for a tense final day.

Tuesday saw the artistry of Bob van Mol, enabling him to make some improvement whilst Dale Shier held on to his coat-tails and went head-to-head with Harry and Saranya. After his birdie two on the sixteenth Harry was three shots behind Bob on the final tee. His drive was thunderously powerful and his approach was laser guided, leaving him an eighteen-inch putt for a birdie. Having shot a seven there the day before his knee-knocker of a putt held more drama than many could handle but little Harry has a huge heart and he summoned up his nerves for the final effort. He caressed the putt with ease and a staggered Bob van Mol could only shake his hand and declare that no-one could have played the hole more perfectly. Harry’s eclectic net 62 held the day from Bob and Bill Hewitt’s superb net 63, with Khun Ya nosed out of the frame into fourth with a net 64.

Other birdie two’s were posted by the new IPGC Champion, Alan McGrory, and Terry Phur. At the other end of the field Wilf Latham found the after-effects of being hit by a ball on the first day too much to bear and Robert Knutsson’s hangover kept him in the shadows of his hotel room, no doubt comforted by his award recognising him being the Bunker Boys’ 20,000th website visitor just one week before.

Angus MacFarlane pulled twelve shots back on the second day but it was not enough to prevent him receiving the Bunker Boys’ Banana Booby for his overall performance but he is made of stern stuff and his general level of improvement is noted by all his playing companions. Two days at Green Valley proved to be most enjoyable once again, especially for an in-form Harry Riley.

High Scores at Siam

Siam Country Club threw its arms out in welcome for the Bunker Boys from the OK Corral on the occasion of their weekly stableford competition on Thursday, July 15, under hot and clear skies. The course was well presented and the greens were surprisingly quicker than usual. More than half the field returned good scores of level par or better and the average score was 33 points, an excellent performance.

At the top, Aussie Bob Philp and John Healy enjoyed a tense battle and it ended all square on 38 points to ensure them of a share of third place on the podium. Ahead was Scot John Cunningham, playing his final round before returning to the land of mountains, mists and moors, and his 40 point scorecard will serve as a fine souvenir of his second place finish. As with more than a few others, Bill Hewitt dislikes Siam, but he put his prejudice behind him on this occasion to fire an excellent score of 41 and he took the top prize of he day. There were no birdie two’s but the bananas went to John Cunningham for making the common mistake of boasting that he had managed to avoid them during his first taste of golf with the Bunker Boys.

Chang Again - ATM Closed

IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven

Monday July 12
Green Valley
Stableford

1st Malcolm Clare, 41
2nd Peter Emslie, 38
3rd Roy Thornton, 36
4th Chang Suh, 32

A welcome return from the jungles of Udon where Malcolm has been working. No golf for two months yet in his first competition, he destroyed the course and the rest of the field, no doubt being sober helped considerably as did the excellent conditions, which resulted in some very good scores on the day. Peter & Roy turned in good rounds as did the always sober Chang. The 2s pool was shared by Chang Suh and Mike Dabanavich. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, the resident PGA professional welcomed Exad Subei and welcomed back Jay Nakagawa before bidding farewell to Gary Bingham.

Wednesday July 14
Sriracha
Medal

1st Dale Drader, 65
2nd Trevor Edge, 72
3rd Peter Emslie, 73

The beautiful layout at Sriracha was spoilt by the poorly presented sanded, cored greens and hard fairways, but despite this Dale hardly put a foot wrong all day with his superb 65 off 27 handicap. Trevor roared back to form and Peter continued his good run. On this amazing day, Mike Dabanavich shot a gross 90 that included a 10, 9 &7 on his card, Trevor Schirmer had a 10 before hitting the wrong ball on the next hole, Dave Lee carded an 11 and several 9’s were spotted when checking the cards, with the extra large core holes it was not surprising that no 2s were recorded and a nice rollover awaits on Friday.

Back at The Haven, Richard Livingston welcomed back Neville Steward, Rupert Jeffrey and Anthony Debono

Friday July 16
Khao Kheaw B&C
Stableford

1st Chang Suh, 39
2nd Mike Dabanavich, 38
3rd Harry Riley, 36
4th Trevor Edge, 34
5th Trevor Schirmer, 32

A large low season turnout enjoyed a course as usual in good condition and the scores reflected this with the in-form Chang leading the field to pip Mike by just one point. The evergreen Harry shot his rather generous handicap to finish 3rd and the two Trevor’s rounded out the podium positions. The day was marred for some by the three hour back 9 due to there being 3 separate competitions in progress which of course all backed up on C course. The sharpshooters, Chang Suh, Mike Dabanavich, Chris Davisson & Patrick Scullion shared the rollover 2s pot. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, welcomed Kim Neilson and welcomed back Delafield Kribben, Brian Burt, John Squitero, Guy Billings, Bill Plath & Chris Davisson before making a sad farewell to Patrick Scullion & Chang Suh.

Jez Lees Unwraps the Monthly Mug for his Birthday

IPGC Golf From Lewiinksi’s

Sunday July 11
Green Valley
White Tees
Monthly Medal

1st Place A Flight: Mick Dilks, net 68
2nd Place A Flight: John Hillier, net 68
3rd Place A Flight: Clive Bruce, net 68
1st Place B Flight: Jez Lees, net 66 - Monthly Medal Winner
2nd Place B Flight: Bruce McAdam, net 67
3rd Place B Flight: Bob Lindborg, net 68
Near Pins: #13 Bob Lindborg; #16 Jack Grindvold

Not a bad birthday present for long time society member Jez Lees as he copped the Silver Tanker, etched his name on the Wall of Shame and accepted an invitation for the year end Gold Medal competition. Jez who last graced the wall of Monthly Winners way back in the year of its inception, November 2000, has shown continual improvement of late. He will have a couple of good weeks then acclimate to the challenges of a lower handicap and now perhaps is ready to take another permanent step down. In any event, he needed every bit of it to edge fellow B Flight member Bruce McAdam by a stroke and the third place B Flight member, Bob Lindborg, and the A Flight podium by two. Mick Dilks needed summation of the last three holes, the third level of count back, to edge Johnny Hillier, for the A Flight toast. Clive Bruce was sorted out on the first level of count back, the back nine

Tuesday July 13
Khao Kheow -
A & C Yellow (M) White (L) Tees
Stableford

1st Place A Flight: Eddie Blackwell, 39 points
2nd Place A Flight: John Emmerson, 35 points
1st Place B Flight: Apple Jitchana, 35 points
2nd Place B Flight: Ralf Zwick, 35 points
Near Pins: #C8 Derek Reading

A fair sized field of fellas took on the always tough back men’s tees and the gals followed in close order taking on the forward men’s whites. It was expected that the scores would be low from those tees and anyone shooting near their handicap had every reason to feel they have put in a good day on the course. That being the case, Eddie Blackwell had every reason to feel he had a great day, garnering 39 points and clearing the entire field by four strokes. Eddie was joined on the A Flight podium by John Emmerson and his 35 points. Apple Jitchana, the apple of Eddie Blackwell’s eye, prevailed on count back over Ralk Zwick, once again with both having 35 points.

Wednesday July 14
Bangpra
White Tees
Stableford

1st Place A Flight: John McHugh, 37 points
2nd Place A Flight: John Hillier, 35 points
3rd Place A Flight: Jack Grindvold, 35 points
1st Place B Flight: Bruce McAdam, 40 points
2nd Place B Flight: Mike Craighead, 38 points
3rd Place B Flight: Derek Reading, 36 points
Near Pins: #12 Jack Grindvold; #17 Eyad Subei

Bruce McAdam continued the ‘pink cloud’ that saw him take second overall in Sunday’s Monthly Medal, by leaving the field two points astern with a marvelous 40 points. Mike Craighead had his nose in it again with a second best in B, and second best on the day, 38 points. Michael’s name is sneaking into the pay window slots every week now. Derek Reading rounded out B with a level to handicap 36 points. Johnny McHugely left John Hillier and Jack Grindvold to fight it out in count back for the A Flight silver and bronze. Mr. Hillier prevailed there. Jack softened the pain by taking a Near Pin as did new member, Subei Eyad, who has been as great an addition as his sponsoring friend, Jay Nakagawa.

Friday July 16
Eastern Star
White Tees
2-person Scramble
Stroke/Medal

1st Place: John McHugh/Paul Young, net 61.75
2nd Place: Kevin Bowman/Frank Pilkington, net 62.25
3rd Place: Eddie Blackwell/Brian Holden, net 62.25

The schedule said 2-person Better Ball, but this scribe bungled the sign up sheet by denoting 2-person Scramble. Fortunately 38 players, 19 teams didn’t seem to mind as they approached the day with anticipation. John McHugh and Paul Young, who had not played much together, found the chemistry right away as they took the gold in the single flight format. Team handicaps were adjudged at 3/8s of the combined handicaps of the team members, thus the fractional scores. The Irish duo of Kevin Bowman and Frank Pilkington used the luck of the ol’ sod to prevail on count back over Eddie Blackwell and Brian Holden.

Lions Pattaya to hold annual Princess Cup tournament at Burapa Golf

Ariyawat Nuamsawat

The lions Club of Pattaya formally announced the upcoming Princess Cup tournament to be held at the Burapa Golf Club on Friday August 6 with an 11.30 a.m. tee-off.

The Lions club is aiming to raise funds for multiple projects including children’s education scholarships, sports, public health facilities and anti-drug programs.

Lion Chanyuth Hengtrakul, Lion Supoje Pjenettrakom and Lion Dr. Yongwit Kewjaroen announce the upcoming tournament during a press conference.

The 18-hole competition will be run under USGA, R & A rules in combination with the course etiquette with 3 Flights plus Ladies and Seniors Flights.

A multitude of prizes are on offer including two Hole-in-one prizes of a sacred ‘Pra-somdej Wat Rakang’ amulet and certificate of authenticity on hole 3B and a Toyota Vios on hole 6A.

Fees for the competition include green and caddie fees as well as a buffet dinner for 2,500 baht.

Those competing will vie for the coveted Princess Sirindhorn trophy and is open to everyone.

Interested golfers can contact the Sattaya Golf Society and the Greenway Driving Range on tel. 038 231 388, 038 232 083, FAX 038 232 084 or deputy tournament director Lion Dr. Yongwit Kewjaroen on 038 488 395, 01 983 9372 or the Lions Club of Pattaya.

The square ring thunders as mayor Niran slammed onto canvas

Despicable behemoths bring wrestling to Pattaya

Ariyawat Nuamsawat

Pattaya - the Sporting City. This description is now becoming a reality. What with the construction of the new indoor stadium underway, to be ready in time to for the Asia Indoor Games to be held here in Pattaya on November 12 to 19, 2005, the Pattaya Queen’s Cup Marathon just over, various beach sports, world class tennis, motor racing and much more, so what more could we want?

Most people use the term “slam” in a figurative sense, such as, “The mayor was slammed for his stance on wrestling.” However, at last week’s opening of Pattaya’s new wrestling stadium, one of the mighty combatants literally slammed the mayor - to the canvas.

The answer is wrestling. Not just the polite Olympic stuff, but down to earth, clothesline, thumping, bumping, grinding and slamming action. That’s what we saw last week when as Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn presided at the official opening of the wrestling stadium located in The Market Pattaya on Second Road.

The Thai Wrestling Federation (TWF) opened up with a round of extreme action, bringing in 10 of the best wrestlers from Europe and USA for this inaugural event.

Not only did they beat each other to a pulp to the enjoyment of the spectators, but also Mayor Niran. Being a champ himself, Pattaya’s mayor decided that he would give it a try. He stepped into the ring to take on a 225-pound monster, and much to the delight of everyone - but not the mayor - the brute picked up the mayor with ease and went through the motions of slamming the poor 120 pound mayor onto the canvas, potentially crushing every bone in his body.

Fortunately for the mayor, Shrek was not angry enough to do any damage, and he put the mayor down softly. Lucky for us, otherwise the city would have to spend millions of baht to hold another election for a new mayor.

The Pattaya Wrestling Stadium is considered to be the only permanent wrestling arena in Thailand and should be another major attraction to the city of Pattaya.

Wednesday Quiz League

Sunday Quiz League

Pattaya Pool League

Bill Gasson’s A’buzzin’ In The Northern Gulf

Peter Cummins

To say that Bill Gasson is an achiever would be one of the understatements of this year. Among his many talents, this New Zealander has been a master of the seas, winning four out of the sixteen Racing Class events at the Phuket King’s Cup regattas in his successive “Buzzards”. Although as CEO of the huge Swiss company SBS, he still found time to chair the King’s Cup Regatta Organizing Committee in its early years and go racing and winning. Then as he moved out of the complex world of corporate life, Bill sold his last “Buzzard” and turned his attention to building alloy catamarans. Naturally enough, he named the new company “Buzzcats Thailand” and he is ensconced behind the monolithic building “hangars” at the Ocean Marina, some 20 km south of Pattaya.

A three-dimensional drawing of the Buzzcat 8

Bill pointed out in an interview last week that, although the Royal Thai Government has repealed the crippling tax of some 240 per cent on importing yachts and powerboats, there is still a large levy. Builders and others in the marine sector who must import gear, engines, pumps, fittings and the huge list of paraphernalia which are essential to the business can be assessed some 30 - 40 per cent, when VAT is added. Nevertheless, with labour considerably cheaper, Bill is able to offer Buzzcats at something around 25 per cent lower than Australian and New Zealand prices. It is appropriate that Bill is established at the Ocean Marina for that was where the Concord (Nautor Swan) Company was originally established to build, at that time, some of the world’s biggest production yachts, a series of Bruce Farr-designed 135-ft (about 42-metre) Mirabellas, the slightly smaller “Philanderer” and an 85-ft power boat before the business ceased.

From the drawing board to the water...

From these ventures, however, Bill was able to tap a skilled work force which has greatly boosted the Buzzcat’s operations. He was the founder of the highly successful first Koh Samui regatta in 2002 and has been one of the principal supporters of keelboat racing out of the Ocean Marina, which is now a monthly event.

Vessels made to suit your requirements: the 36, 42, 50 and 56 are all options.

Bill points out that with his two partners, the three of them can rack up some 100 years of experience - on and off the water - with Bill himself excelling as a sailor and now as a builder. The first “Buzzcat” which he built was the 36 and he motored to Koh Samui for the second regatta in 2003, the year of the strong winds. “Buzzcat” was high-profile around the courses, acting as a committee-cum-rescue vessel, most effectively. With great stability, powerful engines and high manoeuvrability - even in the big seas prevailing, the enclosed flybridge served as a great observation platform, to spot disabled beach-launched catamarans, almost impossible to see at the water-line among raging white-caps. “Buzzcat” was closely observed during the racing and at anchor off Saweng. It was not long before Bill had a very happy buyer in Phuket who immediately ordered another one. According to Bill, the “Buzzcats” incorporate spacious living areas - always a problem with sailing cruisers and even more so than racing yachts and, even though his last “Big Buzzard”, built in Fremantle was quite spacious, there was always that cramped feeling, with sails, spinnakers, spare gear - mountains of equipment to be stored. Now, we are looking at “living areas on a stable platform with extended passage -making capabilities, yet compact enough to be berthed in a normal marina pen, and handled by a minimum crew,” Bill adds.

Early in his planning, Bill tapped the design capabilities of Gavin Mair and combined this with the versatility of the Global Marine Design company’s pre-cut, flat-pack marine-grade alloy. The precision plasma-cutting processes greatly reduces construction costs and time.

The original design is based on multi-hull fishing and oilfield supply vessels, used to hard conditions off Australia’s Western Coast-lines. With the best possible materials employed, the overall result is, says Bill, “a highly versatile fast power catamaran which can be easily adapted for long distance voyaging chartering, requiring more accommodation, deep sea game fishing expeditions, recreational live-aboard and day diving (SCUBA) adventures. Under construction is the mighty Buzzcat 42 Mk II, but Bill is quick to point out that “Buzzcats Thailand” looks forward to building a craft to suit your requirements and fulfil your dreams: the 36, 42, 50 and 56 are all options”.

A perspective client is looking at the super Buzzcat 56, almost 20 metres capable of 30-knots which can be enhanced by adding stainless steel foils. He is also working on the concept of a 26-ft sportsboat, the “Buzz Eight”, based somewhat on Malcolm Runnell’s “Fremantle R-8” design.

Gasson and his colleagues have hit just the right medium, with the launch of Buzzcat Thailand, especially for Thailand’s relatively shallow water-ways and the huge coast-lines ringed with beautiful beaches which allow even the biggest cat to nudge alongside. Even the Chao Phraya River can accommodate these craft which are fitted with propeller guards and special water-intake ports.

Looking again at Bill’s contributions to yacht racing in the Kingdom - rated as the region’s best helm, when he was closely involved with it - Bill would like to see, as his final legacy, a “Top of the Gulf Regatta” established, with the possibility of incorporating the Coronation Cup and a Platu National Championship. The regatta would embrace all craft, from the tiny junior trainers, the Optimists, through the Nacras and Hobie Cats, Lasers, and on up through the ocean-going cats and tri-marans, sports boats and keel boats.

All enquiries regarding Buzzcats Thailand should be directed to: Buzzcats Thailand Co. Ltd.25B1 San Marino Condominium, Ocean Marina, Km. 157 Sukhumvit Road, Sattahip, Chonburi, Thailand 20250. Tel. 038 237 337; fax. 038 237 338; mobile 01 811 8930, website: www.buzzcats.com; e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]

Pleasure Dome strengthens lead

Mickey Mouse Dart League

Top of the table clash saw the Pleasure Dome strengthen their position on the league table by taking both the game and the beer from second placeholders, Smugglers. Third place PSI also lost ground after losing both the beer and the game at home to the Bunker.

Rising Sun moved up the ladder by winning all at home against Cheers, where Martin (Rising Sun) scored a 180, well done! Palmers also had a good night out by scoring the game and beer at the Devonshire.

The Square Ring looks back at July 23, 1993

11th Anniversary Special

by Howie Reed

What was I doing on July 23, 1993? I remember it as if it were just 11 years ago. I was staying at the Meridian Hotel on the corner of Soi Yamato and Beach Road. This was part of my three week mid-summer visit to Land of Smiles. Please don’t be silly. We know ‘why they’re smiling’. My mornings always started with a visit to the Wild Chicken where I was honored to be able to sit at the ‘A’ table presided over by the late Wayne Tishburn. It was he, that without leaving his chair, except for those trip that one has to take when having a beverage, would expound on all things Thai and otherwise. My afternoons were taken up with walks down to Soi 6 and a visit with Wil Tailor who I gave permission to advertise ‘Tailor to the Star’. Yea I know ‘cheeky bastard’ but us Yanks are that way. The early evening always started sitting at Tim’s Beachfront Bar Beer watching the sunset on the gleaming waters that surround Pattaya. Upon closer inspection, in good light you didn’t want to know what was gleaming in the waters. Then it was off to darts, a few beverages and some lady walking to music before calling it an early morning back where it started. “One for the road at Tim’s.”

One morning at the Wild Chicken’s equivalent of the Algonquin Round Table, Bossman Wayne mentioned that Pattaya was going to have it’s very own weekly newspaper. The Pattaya Mail was coming out the next day. Algonquin Round Table? The name came from a specific “round table” in New York’s Algonquin Hotel where the important ‘literary’ people of the day would hang out to discuss and pontificate on all things important or deemed to be. Presided over by sharp-tongued Dorothy Parker the one-liners flew like baht buses racing for fares. Dorothy Parker: “That woman speaks eighteen languages and can’t say ‘no’ in any of them.” Playwright Robert Sherwood reviewing cowboy hero Tom Mix: “They say he rides as if he’s part of the horse, but they don’t say which part.” George S. Kaufman: once when asked by a press agent, “How do I get my leading lady’s name into your newspaper?” Kaufman replied, “Shoot her.” Good stuff that.

About the only thing I can remember about the first issue of the Mail was that it was printed on classic newspaper stock, had some advertising (not much) and cost I think 15 baht. At the time I was doing a monthly boxing column for Ring Sports which has evolved into The Square Ring. Like evolution in general it just keeps on evolving. That explains why the theory that man evolved from the apes recognizes the fact that there are still apes and discounts the female theory that men haven’t evolved much just learned to stand up straight. During my sojourns in the Kingdom I would hand write my column to be posted back to America. Many a time my editor and myself wished it had been lost. Drat. It was suggested by the wise men at the Wild Chicken round table “Howie you ought to write for the Mail. You couldn’t be any worse.” I use to bring Ring Sports to Thailand with me and force unlucky people to read it. Those that did and smiled got a beverage.

Farangs don’t understand the passion with which Thai’s embrace the sport of boxing. In 1989 I was walking down Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok on my way from the Honey Hotel to the Moonshine in Soi Cowboy. On the corner of Soi Asoke and Sukhumvit Road was a store that sold among other things, TV sets. A large crowd had gathered peering through the window at four colour TV sets. They were watching boxing. In particular the bout between Tracy Macalos (25-4-3) and Muangchai Kittikasen (10-0) for the IBF Light Flyweight Title. Kittikasen would win in what was described as a ‘controversial decision’. The fight held in Bangkok saw fans tossing everything that wasn’t nailed down and some items that were. The boxers hid under the ring. The Aussie referee fled to a waiting cab going directly to the airport disdaining clothes left in his hotel room. Here were fans that knew a lousy decision when they saw it.

A few months later, June 1990, Kittikasem would make a defense of his title against American Michael Carbajal in Phoenix Arizona. Bad idea. I was staying at the Meridian Hotel on the corner of Beach Road and Soi Yamato. The bout came on TV live from the USA at 7.30 a.m. The hotel staff were sure that Kittikasem would win in a walk. Being the boxing expert that I am, I know the opposite as fact. Yes a few small wagers were made and collected when Carbajal did the business with a TKO in 7. My first TV match in Thailand came with my first visit to Land of Smiles. That would be April 1985. I was visiting Lampang with the late Nicky Virachkul, the greatest darts player in the history of Asia and long time pal. I was ensconced in the Tip Ching Hotel. On April 15 Thomas ‘The Hitman’ Hearns and Marvin Hagler met for the WBC, WBA and IBF Middleweight titles. The fight held in Las Vegas, hit the Tip Ching at 8 a.m. where I joined others to watch a rolling picture on a temporary screen. Many believe that this was the greatest 3 round fight in history. The Marvellous One prevailed but not without a struggle.

There was the ring announcer’s gig at the charity boxing show in December of 2000 presented by Patrick the Flying Frog. There was the April, 1995 fight between ‘Big’ George Foreman and Axel Schultz. Me and two of the judges had it for Foreman (115-113). They were ringside in Las Vegas I was tableside by my lonesome at Tim’s Bar Beer Rock ‘n’ Roll amidst the cleaning personnel, a sleepy computer lady and a cup of coffee. There was the afternoon I strolled into the old Wild Country on Washington Square to see Jerry. There on TV was a replay of a ESPN Friday Night fight playing to a bunch of afternoon drunk farangs. Picked up a few baht that afternoon. There was the front-page story on myself in an ‘early’ Pattaya Mail that so embarrassed me with inaccuracies that I felt compelled to write a letter to correct the situation. Who would of thunk it? The Pattaya Mail, Howie Reed and boxing. Look forward to doing one of these down memory lane deals for many years to come. In fact, I’ll drink to that

The Square Ring

by Howie Reed

Maybe, just maybe this is the end of the saga of WBA superfly weight champion, Yodsanan 3K Battery, 42-2-1, and his first bout in America. It’s now official, signed, sealed and to be delivered on August 8 (Pattaya Time). Yodsanan will go fist city against former IBF Jr. lightweight world, Steve Forbes (24-2) who is there for the taking. Yodsanan, of Srisaket, has made a big impression on American Promoter Art Pelullo, “We’re very pleased to bring Yodsanan to Foxwoods for his American debut. He has the reputation in Thailand as having tremendous skills and punching power, and he will have the chance to prove it to the American fans against the very talented Steve Forbes. We think this is a terrific fight - a world champion defending his title against a former world champion - and a classic boxer-puncher matchup.”

Yodsanan said through an interpreter, “I look forward to this opportunity to fight in America with great excitement. I expect to represent Thailand to the best of my abilities. I am ready to go.” Of course he always gives his best. The 29 year old won the world title in April, 2002, with a 12-round decision against Lakva Sim. Since then he’s made two successful title defenses. Even more impressive is that Yodsanan is undefeated in his last 35 fights, 34-0-1 - dating back to September, 1994. Stevie Forbes is one of those guys that just can’t accept success. He won the IBF Jr. lightweight world title in December, 2000 then made one successful title defense. Scheduled for a second defense in August of 2002 he got ‘fat and lazy’ didn’t make weight and lost the title. He also has an eye for the ladies, which as anyone knows doesn’t mix with boxing. Unless you’re Evandler Holyfield. I know Steve Forbes, he’s no Evandler Holyfield.

A little later down the road long time WBC bantam king Veerapol Sahaprom (44-1-2) will defend his title against WBC#15/IBF#6/WBO#15 Ricardo ‘Chapo’ Vargas (36-10-3) of Mexico. The card is scheduled for September 11 at the Chaophraya Dam’s Ground in Chainart Province, Thailand.

For Veerapol’s 14th defense he gets an ‘old war-horse’ that typifies the term ‘tough Mexican’. He could also use the nickname ‘Billy Goat’ instead of ‘Chapo’. In a number of his fights the opposition seems to get cut by the ever present ‘inadvertent head butt’. A term that all boxing fans know means, “He got away with it again.” Also on the card WBC international 122lb champion Napapol Kiattisakchokchai who will face Adam Mwakyusa of Tanzania in a ten round non-title bout.

I was re-miss, “No, No, not re-miss” they cried, in not reporting the ‘news’ that “ Former Muaythai champion Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo (reportedly 5-0,3 KOs) impressively captured the vacant ABCO feather title as he out pointed RP#5 Rolando Gilongco (12-6,6KOs).” It was a unanimous decision 120-107 twice and 118-109. “In other action, Southeast Asian Games 1999 gold medallist, Suttisak Samaksaman dropped Filipino Carlo Diligel once in round five, finally scoring a eight round unanimous decision win on his pro debut. And Thai-Muslim fighter Somchay Nakbalee, who also won a gold medal in Southeast Asian Games 1999, used his superior skill to outpoint RP#8 Ranee Ganoy in a six round non-title bout.” I hope that makes sense to someone cause it doesn’t to me.

Did you know that Thailand has a fighting school teacher? True fact. Not only do I know that but also that his name is Terapong Kaewnongsamed, he’s 16-0 as a bantamweight and ranked #15 by the International Boxing Federation. (aka “I Been Fixin”). The fighting teacher reigns as the Pan Pacific Champ and defended that title against Michael Domingo (14-11-3) of the Philippines recently in Bangkok. He got the win when all three judges had it in his favor (115-113,117-111,and 115-113). What did Promoter Jimmy Chaichotchuang say after he fight?

“I am very pleased with the performance of Terapong. Domingo is a very good boxer and holds a win over WBC#11, Seungsok Chae of Korea. I would like to thank Sompong Archanukrow (Channel 7) for his assistance in making this promotion successful.” That what he said but probably after “Show me the money”. Fashung 3K Battery (37-7) was on the undercard as he defeated Charlie Angel (16-6-1) of the Philippines in six stanza’s. The aggressive Southpaw, 3K Battery, was in total control and had the visitor in trouble throughout the bout. This was 3K Battery’s first ring appearance since dropping a twelve round decision to IBF#1 Art Simonyan in Chicago .

When I’m right, I’m “spot on”. I finally got something right. Two weeks ago I wrote, “There are things in life that are true because they’re true. Pongsaklek Wonjongkam (51-2), the WBC Flyweight champ is the best in the world at his weight. Is Wonjongkam ready to face Luis Angel Martinez (12-3-1)? Does Martinez’s record belie some talent and power? Does the chewing gum lose its flavor on the bedpost over night? Answers in order. Wonjongkam is always ready. Canete’s power is nothing to write home or anywhere else about. Martinez has only 5 KO’s from 12 fights, so his strength probably isn’t power probably just an opponent. The chewing gum is fine.” Last Thursday, July 15, WBC Champ Wanjongkam (now 52-2) walked through “Angel” Martinez like a woman of the second category through the cosmetic section of Mike’s. If you remember the ‘well written’ story on the fight I mentioned that Martinez had somewhat of a reputation as a Billy Goat. He got the champ in the 4th with an ‘intentional-accidental head butt’ opening a cut on the left eyebrow. If it was ruled ‘accidental’ why was Martinez rewarded by having a point deducted? This Is Thailand. Cheat one of our guys and you’re in deep stuff. Pongsaklek came out for the 5th round with vengeance on his mind and murder in both hands. His assault included a plethora punches with the ‘coupe de grace’ being a devastating left hook that dropped the cheating Mexican like a punter out of Baht bus. Martinez beat the count but he couldn’t beat a superior fighter. Referee David Chong mercifully stopped the Wanjongkam onslaught at 1:49 of the 5th.

Other fights on the card the 15th included a couple of ex-WBC champs in action. Medgoen Singsurat (36-3) stopped Daothai Kiakamjorn in 6 Sirimongkol Singmanassak (45-2) had little or no trouble with visiting Filipino Pelonia. ‘Filipino Pelonia no record, no first name?” Yep sad but true. Wanjongkam is next scheduled to defend on October 8 at the WBC Convention, if there is one, in Phuket where headquarters will probably be at the Island Lager Bar. Well at least for some of us. The last time the WBC held a convention in Thailand (Pattaya) the year was 2001. Pongsaklek fought as the highlight of their boxing card. It was a joke. First the WBC rating committee had to rank Luis Alberto Lazarte with a dubious record of 19-4 and then actually show up for the fight. Lazarte from the opening bell was looking for a place to fall. Then a punch almost connected in round two his corner tossed in the towel. Great sport. I’ll drink to that.

Banglamung School organizes sports agenda

Making dreams come true through sports

Suchada Tupchai

Sport develops your talents and swiftly takes you to fulfill your dreams. Realizing this true philosophy the Banglamung School has encouraged and developed its students to take an active interest in sporting activities organized by the teachers. Each week the students participate in a variety of sports.

Banglamung students take centre ring for an afternoon of Muay Thai boxing.

Last week was an exciting and action packed one for the children, because it was the week that the ancient art Thai boxing was taught. Included in the action was also the unique ‘Muay Kraphuan’ or blind-folded boxing, where boxers are blind folded and wear little bells around their waist. The boxers must find their target by using their hearing skills to pinpoint the exact spot of their opponent. Of course the referee helps bring the boxers together when they stray apart.

On this particular day professional teachers treated the children to a special boxing training session from the Sit Yodthong Boxing Camp, which they enjoyed tremendously.

Suriya Dechlay, head of the educational section of the school said, “The Banglamung School sees the importance of getting the children involved in sports. We also encourage the children to express themselves in a confident manner. Therefore we have put together a program of sports activities for every day of the week.”

He went on to say, “On Mondays we have aerobic classes. On Tuesdays, Thai boxing, on Wednesdays, the Thai art of self-defense using lathes, on Thursdays, football and volleyball and on Fridays, prizes are given out for the winners of the week. This is also interspersed with expressing themselves with their music and various games are also played for relaxation.”

A program called the ‘Stage for the Brave’ was also implemented to give an opportunity for students to openly express their talents in personal interests.

Pattaya International Beach Challenge burst into Pattaya last weekend

Spectators thrill to sports bonanza

Staff Reporters

Athletes from over 10 nations gathered in Pattaya last weekend to partake in the Pattaya International Beach Challenge in a variety of action sports.

The X-games drew interest from spectators as these youths display their skills in the bicycle aerial display and on skateboards at the specially built Skateboard Park.

Competitors from Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, China, Korea and New Zealand battled it out in the sand and courts in front of The Market Pattaya in beach football, beach volleyball, Fun Run and X-games for a weekend of fun competition, officially opened by Sombat Glinpar, deputy permanent secretary of the ministry of tourism and sports at specially built arena on the beachfront.

Vietnam and New Zealand ladies battled on the sand during the Beach Volleyball competition.

In the beach football (soccer) Thailand took first prize defeating Ghana in the finals, with the home team defeating the girls from China in the Beach Volleyball.

The X-games featuring extreme sports such as skateboarding and bicycle jumping drew great interest from spectators as competitors displayed a wide array of aerial and technical display.

The beach challenge was held from July 16 to 18 in conjunction with the beach side festival coinciding with the Queen’s Cup Pattaya Marathon.

Athletes selected to compete in 39th Asian Bodybuilding Championships

Thailand Bodybuilding Association recently held the final selection of Thai bodybuilding athletes, who will be competing at the 39th Asian Men’s Bodybuilding Championships during September 19-24, 2004 at Manama, the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The final selection 8 athletes to represent Thailand in Bahrain, (left to right): Somkhit Sumathovechakul, 55 kg weight class; Thongpan Lamana, 60kg weight class; Kongthid Hanchayuttakom and Somsri Turintaisong, 65 kg kg weight class; Boontham Sriboonthong, 70 kg weight class; Swang Panapoi and Suksan Kaewpitsadan, 75 kg weight class; Panupong Prathip, 80 kg weight class.

Pakpong Kriangsak, Thailand Bodybuilding Association president said, “This final selection of Thai bodybuilding athletes is aimed at selecting Thai representative athletes to practice and get ready for competing at the 39th Asian Men’s Bodybuilding Championships from 19-24 September 2004 at Manama, the Kingdom of Bahrain.”

“I am confident that the Thai athletes will win the gold medal for Thailand,” Pakpong added. For further information please contact: Pakpong Kriangsak, Tel. 0 2254 5950, Garagade Oonkhanond Tel. 0 2231 6158-9 or 0 1620 3823

‘Yodsanan 3K Battery’ prepares to fight in the US

Suchada Tupchai

Local dignitaries visited world WBA Super Featherweight champion, ‘Yodsanan 3K Battery’ during a training session in preparation for a world class match in the US against Steve Forbes.

Yodsanan (left) in the ring with fellow boxer as part of his training.

The well wishers, including Surapol Tiensuwan, Banglamung district chief, Chanyuth Hengtrakul, advisor to the minister of sports and tourism and Pattaya city council members handed over gifts and offered encouragement to the fighter at the Sityodthong training camp on July 15.

Yodsanan is due to fight Forbes in the US on August 7 and flew out on July 20 to prepare for the match.

“I am ready to fight Steve Forbes, who is one of the top boxers in the US and I believe I have trained hard enough for the fight. Whatever the outcome is, it will open the doors for Thai boxing and Muay Thai to the world and am confident that I will make Thailand better known in the boxing world,” said Yodsanan.

Yodthong Senaluk, teacher and owner of Sityodthong revealed that Yodsanan is in fine form and training very hard, “He is a dedicated athlete and has a strong sense of ethics good form, which is what we instill here at Sityodthong. I would like to see the Thai government support world class athletes, especially Muay Thai as it is a national sport and art form.”

Yodsanan will receive around 6 million baht for his appearance in the US. Live broadcasts right from the match are still under negotiation.