Shenanigan's
Irish Pub
Pattaya


SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Queen Victoria Inn repels Philippines Invasion

Shark Bar party’s hard during the Pattaya 9 Ball League season end party

RisingSunGolf - October Results

One more week and league standings will be clear

Hamilton scores big at Siam

PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg

PSC golf from McAllisters Bar and Grill

Can-Am in town this weekend - Slots available for Pattaya players

The 6th ‘Diana Gold’ Charity Golf Tournament

A Long Day at Laem Chabang

High five for the Irish

Large Turnouts herald the start of High Season

A clean sweep for Mitch

Richardson, Wilson and Bailey again!

Mickey Mouse Darts League

12th annual Bangkok International Softball Tournament

Pattaya announces plans for this year’s Pattaya Open 2004

Looking for a new weekend getaway?

Sunday Quiz League

Wednesday Quiz League

Where the Fun started!

Brazilians open up a gap and show their class

Sriracha run to honor HM Queen Sirikit’s 72nd birthday - November 14

The Square Ring

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Queen Victoria Inn repels Philippines Invasion

The Queen Victoria Inn on Soi Yodsak held the first tournament from their venue on Monday the October 25. A tournament between themselves and the visiting Golf Asia group from Angeles City was held at the Bangpra Golf Course. The Golf Asia group last year found the Queen Vic in their travels and used the pub as their home base while in Pattaya. They enjoyed their time so much a tournament was organized for their return visit this year.

Andy Nesbit (center), the Queen Vic’s winning captain receives the trophy as he congratulated by Dick Umberger, Golf Asia group captain, from Angeles City, Philippines.

A group of golfers from Pattaya was thrown together to take on the visitors. Some of the local golfers are as much at home with a pint of Kilkenny as a 9 iron in their hands. The format was a better ball stableford competition with 3 points to be won for each match played. One point for each nine holes and one for the match.

The Queen Vic managed to get together 13 golfers while the visitors due to a few no shows had 10 players. The match was played in great spirit and the score line of 12.5 to 5.5 in favour of the Queen Vic was not a true indication of just how close some of the matches were.

The Queen Vic Tiger Girls celebrate victory.

On returning to the Queen Vic after the match there were a few pints drank and a lot of lies told of what might have been. When all had arrived the presentation began. Vic & Bert from the Queen Vic had very generously provided vouchers for the nearest the pin prizes. These were of more than enough value to enjoy one of their wonderful meals and to wash it down with quite a few pints of whatever beverage you would wish.

The nearest the pins were won by Dick Umberger hole #2. Dick is captain of the Golf Asia group, a visitor to Pattaya for many years and is well known by a lot of local golfers thru his playing with the different societies while here. Nearest the pin #8 & #17 were won by Jerry Quinn; obviously the sabbatical Jerry is taking from work is helping the golf game. Upon receiving his vouchers Jerry immediately brought a drink for the appreciative golfers. Nearest pin #12 was taken by the great Cork County amateur golfer Paul OMahony. Anybody who has had the pleasure of playing golf with Paul knows it is an experience you soon don’t forget. The captains were then called and the trophy presented to Andy Nesbit captain of the Queen Vic side.

Andy was instrumental in setting up the tournament, as he is well known to the Philippines community having spent many years living there during his entrepreneurial days. T he captains thanked their respective teams and their hosts for the day. Dick was gracious in defeat and Andy modest in victory although the winning captain seemed to suffer from the rare form of speech impediment called ‘Guinessgitas’ during some parts.

The golfers would like to thank the management and staff of the Queen Vic for their wonderful hospitality. The girls really got into the post tournament celebrations. A delicious BBQ pig & buffet dinner was served and Tiger beer had come to the fore and donated some cases of Tiger beer, which was handed out on the golf course whenever one of the players looked like dehydrating. Alan Parson & Bert were charged with the responsibility of handing out the Tiger beer & even when Bert had to head back to Pattaya, Parson managed to soldier on by himself.

A great day was had by all and a big thanks to all competing, making it such a memorable day.

Results: Queen Vic 12 .5 def. Golf Asia Philippines 5.5

Bob Kay & Egon Nielson defeated Rusty Sibold & Joe Miller 3 - nil; Lumpy Russell & Paul OMahony defeated Tom Brit & Dick Umberger 3 to nil; Andy Nesbit & Kim Payne drew with Bill Wilson &Jason Lockwood; Dave Pittman & Gez Tracy defeated Justin Elde & Vince Callaghan 3 - nil; Jerry Quinn & Dave Crawford lost to Chris Parry & Jim Walton Nil - 3; Adrian Bassett & Gerry Hobbs defeated Adrian Bassett & Andrew ‘Middlemiss’ 2 - 1.


Shark Bar party’s hard during the Pattaya 9 Ball League season end party

The Pattaya 9 Ball League celebrated their end of season party Wednesday October 27. The festivities were held at the winning team’s venue, Shark Pub &Restaurant opposite Palladium Disco on the Pattaya 2nd Road.

Shark Bar, 9 Ball League Champions hold their trophy high at the end of season party.

A great night for the many people who attended. The winning team laid out plenty of good food while the resident band played great music through the night. There was also way too much alcohol consumed by everyone during the festivities, which led to a fun night had by all.

The medal winners were celebrating hard and showing the rest that if it were a drinking contest, they would have won the gold.

Some good work from emcee Jamie from the Harley Bar and lots of fun on the pool tables.

A fun end to a sizzling season of 9-Ball.


RisingSunGolf - October Results

Thurs 28 Green Valley: No competition
Tues 26 Laem Chabang:
1-Matt; 2. BOF; 3. Bernard
Thurs 21 Phoenix LO:
1. Bill Knight; 2. Bernard; F2 3. Keith, 4.Gran
Tues 19 Khao Kheow AB:
1-Paul E 2-Gran 3-Jerry 4-George
Thurs 14 Eastern Star:
1. Roger; 2 Gerry
Tues 12: Green Valley:
1. Gareth; 2. Matt; F2 1. Dr Mike, 2.
Dedicated Dave
Thurs 7 Laem Chabang BC:
1. Roger; 2. George; 3 Paul E
Tues 5 Bangphra:
1 Gran, 2 BOF; 3. Roger
Rising Sun golfers. Soi Yamato 13/1 leave at 11 a.m. Call 038 710
610 for details.


One more week and league standings will be clear

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 bowlers, Ooy and Teuvo

Next week new bowlers will get their handicap if they complete three weeks of bowling and then team standings will be determined. House of the Golden Coin is currently in first place with eight points, second is Friends with seven points and third is Brother D with six points. Only two 200 games bowled this week and many bowlers bowled poorly as the PS Bowl is having a lot of trouble in maintaining their lanes to a proper standard with too much oil on the lanes. In addition the pin setting equipment is not being kept up to a good working condition with pins dropping or not being set up properly.

Some bowlers did manage to bowl well:

Teuvo – Friends – 202 game, 559 series

Bill Key – VFW Post 9876 – 550 series

Gert – Q Cars – 553 series

Ooy – House of the Golden Coin – 207 game, 550 series


Hamilton scores big at Siam

PSC golf from the Three Sisters

Another beautiful day and another day of terrific scores at Siam Monday Golf. It was holiday rates but we had a very good turn out with about thirty golfers showing up. With the course in the best shape that I have seen it in years, and good weather conditions, seven golfers shot scores of 39 or better.

Last week’s winner Hamilton Wilson (right) and Kevin Mackintosh left holding the bag.

The winning score for the day was shot by Hamilton Wilson. I believe that he won just a few weeks ago, but he out did himself by coming in with 44 big points. Following Hamilton was our golf chairman, Chris John, with a brilliant 42 points. We thought that it would be the winning score but it was not enough for the day. I’m sure that Chris will be getting out the axe to chop a few people down.

Two points back of the leaders were three golfers with 40 points each. Terry Morris, Stuart Thompson and Bob Benda all gave it a good shot but fell well shot of the leader. Just a shot back of these three were Bill Gibson and Andy Bettany with 39 points. It was a good day for golf and the scores reflected it.

As good as it was for most, we had a couple of golfers that did not quite make it. Finding the cellar for the first time was Kevin Mackintosh. Kevin, hitting a long ball, did not find the fairways and did not have his game together today. He beat out Bill Key for the bottom spot by a shot coming in with 24 points. I’m sure that Kevin will not be there next week. He will make sure that someone else will be holding the bag in the cellar at the end of the month.


PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg

Monday October 25 Plutaluang Stableford

The Royal Thai Navy Course at Plutaluang, was host to a Stableford competition on the South and East layouts.

Bill Plath receives the Monthly Mug from Papa Ray Rogers back at the Caf้ Kronborg.

The course on the day was in good condition and all the water hazards and the reservoir have filled up in the last four weeks.

Kevin Dinan, just having returned from a mid year break, was in fine form, and took first place with an amazing 44 points. Bill Plath took second with a very good 39 points and in a countback on 38 points, Kris Helgason came third and Dave Richardson came fourth.

Thursday October 28
Siam C.C.
Kronborg Mug - Stroke

How many shopping days to Christmas? It seems hard to believe that this is the ‘Tenth Kronborg Mug’ of the year. We shall soon have the influx that will see the numbers increase dramatically.

This day looked like it was going to be a low turnout on the Wednesday, but all of a sudden the numbers increased dramatically, and on the day we had an excellent turnout. All players are requested to put their name down for all PSC tournaments as soon as possible, the courses ‘rightly’ get upset when we book tee times and do not use them. If we know 24 hrs early we do not need them all, we can phone up the course and reduce the number.

So to the day, and the course was in pretty good condition, if a little dry. The ball was flying and running miles and all were predicting good scores. Indeed it looked like some of the players were going to kill the course, but this is golf, and the course always seems to bite back. Since playing the Mug at Siam we have only once had a very low winning score, mostly it tends to hover just below net 70.

Back at the Cafe Kronborg as the results were declared, once again if you shot under your handicap you were in with a chance. The winner of the A Flight, 0 to 17, was Bob Benda with a net 69, the second best score of the day. Second place was decided by countback, both on net 70, with Clive Robinson coming second and Brian Noguer third.

In the B Flight, 18 up, the winner was Kris Helgerson with a net 70. In second on net 71 was Claus Schiffer and in third on net 72 was James Flanagan.

So to the winner, and for his first ever Mug, Bill Plath came in with a fine net 67 to take the honors.


PSC golf from McAllisters Bar and Grill

Friday October 29 Century Bangchang

So, now we all know, get into your car and drive down to Century Bangchang. At 8.30 a.m. tee off and play with the ‘Lads’ and you can be sure of a good party in the afternoon.

Stars of the day, (l-r) Ray Spurling, Bob Noble and Kevin MacIntosh enjoyed the spoils of victory back at McAllisters Bar and Grill, Bangchang.

Whilst this is a proven format, I do not think it has been taken to the heights of this new ‘Day Out’. I say day out because for most players that is exactly what it is.

On this day the tee was full, and the turnout is building. The course as is usual was in its normal defiant mood, however, one or two did manage to play well, and the weather was fine if a little hot.

This is a real tough course for some people with its elevated tees and undulating fairways; you never seem to get a decent lie. I know some players who will not play the course if they can avoid it, and others who love the course.

Back at McAllisters the fun was in full flow, with the normal fine buffet put on by them. For those who have not been, there are many choices, including all the favorites of the West. Roast beef/pork, pies of various types, potatoes in all guises, and so on. My favorite always has to be the fruit pies, served with custard, I am partial to a bit of ‘Western Stodge’, and what is more, play in the competition, and it is free. It does not get much better. Incidentally the company is fine.

So to the golf, and the winner is Bob Noble with 40 points, on countback over Kevin MacIntosh in second. In third was Ray Spurling with 37 points, on countback over Larry Willet.

Want a good day out? Well now you know where and when, but at present not on PSC Monthly Competition Day. T.T.F.N.


Can-Am in town this weekend - Slots available for Pattaya players

The 24th Can-Am Invitational rolls into town this weekend with an estimated 240 players arriving from across Thailand, around the region, and around the world for the event that has become one of the longest-running and most popular on the expat golfing calendar.

With major sponsors Pathway Systems, Raimon Land, AMJ Campbell-HK Transpack and Air Canada stepping up to the plate, this promises to be one of the very best Can-Ams ever.

The price is 3,500 baht, which includes parties at the Dusit Resort both Friday and Saturday nights, green fees, caddy fees, on-course food and beverage, prizes, gifts and fun galore. The Pattaya Mail has learned that a few slots held open for Pattaya area players are still available and anyone interested should contact Les Walsh on 01 802 9606 or email: [email protected].


The 6th ‘Diana Gold’ Charity Golf Tournament

Mike Franklin

The 6th ‘Diana Gold’ Charity Golf Tournament, sponsored by Chivas Regal, Eastern Star & Mittweida Beer, is on Friday November 12 at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort.

The tournament format will be singles Stroke play, all groups teeing-off from the 10th Tee with the course closed.

There are still some places left in the early ‘7.30 - 9.30’ period, and a few in the ’12.00 - 12.30' period.

As in the previous five years of the event, the key word is ‘Gold’ and there will be a One Baht gold item to be won on every hole, and gold to be won in the lucky draw too.

All proceeds from the Tournament will go to the Diana Group Charity Foundation to be used in the support of under privileged and deserving children in and around the Pattaya area.

Details and Entry Forms are available at local golf venues, or sign-up at the Diana Inn, 2nd Road.


A Long Day at Laem Chabang

IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral

There had been consistent rumours that men in white coats had been seen in Rungland over the last week and they were apparently confirmed when Mr. Loy led his men from the OK Corral to Laem Chabang on Tuesday, October 26, for a modified stableford tournament over the three courses.

Yes, twenty-seven holes of unbridled passion and endless energy! The bleary-eyed group of two-dozen “ne’er-do-wells” met at the OK for a 7:45 departure no less. The course was impeccably presented, as usual, and the greens were consistent and well paced, under a clear sky, with a fresh breeze. The ‘C’ course was to be a huge test with its legendary length, Bermuda grass, hypnotic bunkers and copious expanses of water, and all seemingly into the wind. With the cut at 15, the two flights set out on the monstrous challenge, beginning with the benign ‘B’ nine.

In division two, Norm Robinson acquitted himself well scoring 44 points to take third place, whilst Brian Bellis went two better with 46. Neil Hughes took the main prize with 49 points and his victory marked a fine return for the popular golfer who spends most of his time these days working on the new airport at Bang Na, with little time for golf. Division one saw better scores with Keith Hector approaching par with his 51 points, but this was not quite enough as David Smith and Stuart Thompson were ahead by one point to take a share of the top flight honours.

David Palmer and Tony Shepherd took a share of the Super Sawng pot with their birdie twos and justice was finally done as Mr. Loy’s last act of the day was to present himself with the Bananas for his poor 31 point haul.

The real reason, of course, was his decision to subject his friends to a dawn raid with 27 holes on a challenging course, under a hot sun, to celebrate the end of the low season.

Testing Times at Siam

Siam Country Club is a course golfers either love or hate with its slow greens, inescapable trees and fluffy sand but its advantages include ease of access and a very friendly caddy shack! Such was the appeal that the Bunker Boys from the OK Corral chose it as the venue for their weekly stableford event on Thursday, October 28.

Some regulars were missing as the fixture competed for “customers” with the Diana Seniors event at Pattaya C.C. but those who did play were unanimous in their distaste for the slow greens and rock hard fairways. It seems to be club policy at this time of the year to let the greens grow and take on a furry complexion in order to protect them against the thousands of feet, which will descend for the high season. It may be good for the greens but it is unnerving for the golfer as ‘thumping’ a putt goes against all we are encouraged to do when putting, preferring to tease, cajole and caress the ball into the hole. However, “Basher” Brian Bellis found the secret early to post a score of 35 points to trail the runner-up, Dave “Smacker” Smith, by one point. The same margin separated him from the eventual winner, Steve “Nobbler” Nowell, whose 37 points bore testimony to the manner in which he smashed and thwacked his way around the greens. Dave Smith, putting with a paver’s mallet, secured the day’s only birdie two, on the par three fourth hole, and Len Jones, absent from the presentation, conceded the Banana Booby to Aussie Bob Philp for his paltry 27 point haul. The lesson for Siam at this time of year is simple - forget finesse, be brutal on the greens.

News of his condition and visiting times at the clinic will be posted at http://www. thebunkerboys.com


High five for the Irish

Mike Franklin

No problem for the Irish in the Shenanigans ‘Five Clubs Pairs Scramble’ at Eastern Star on Wednesday October27.

This was the first of Shenanigans Wednesday outings and the pairing of Jimmy Ryan and Tom Noonan produced the only below par score of the day. With a team handicap of 6.6 and a gross 74, the result was a creditable net 67.4. Nearest to take runner-up spot was the formidable pair of Philippe Berra and Tai Kennedy, but their best was a gross 81 producing a net 73.2 from their 7.8 handicap.

Tom Noonan (left) and Jimmy Ryan (right) with Mike Franklin back at Shenanigans after a fine day out at Eastern Star.

Near pins were claimed by Philippe Berra, Mike Franklin and Larry Willett. No-one claimed on #13.

Newcomer Daniel Poole had the longest putt on #18 and Carl Baumann on #9.

The weather was fine and sunny; the Eastern Star golf course was in excellent shape as is the norm these days, and it was just another friendly day out on the links.

Back at Shenanigans it was ‘Steak Night’ for the hungry, and due welcome was given to newcomers Daniel Poole, Paul Cremin and winner Jimmy Ryan. Tom Noonan was welcomed back and was obviously glad he made it.

Next outing is on Wednesday November 10 to Plutaluang playing South & East in a Pairs Better Ball. Sign-up for that at Shenanigans in pairs please.

Don’t forget the re-scheduled Shenanigans Men’s & Ladies Irish Open Championships on Friday November 26 at Eastern Star. Entry forms on the notice board. Existing sign-ups for the original October 1 date remain on the start sheet as published.


Large Turnouts herald the start of High Season

IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven

Monday Oct 25
Pattana Yellow Tees
Stableford

1st Randal Penrod, 39
2nd Peter Johanson, 36 - c/b 19
3rd Fred Ewins, 36 - c/b 17
4th Martin Hayes, 36 - c/b 16
5th Takeshi Hakozaki, 34

Thanks to an impromptu visit and some bright negotiation by Trevor Edge, we managed to obtain the current special offer for the bank holiday and a large contingent left the Haven to try out this new course. What an investment! A huge clubhouse in process of completion, with hotel and housing complex well into construction and 18 holes complete with a further 9 in progress.

Barry Traynor survived the hot and humid weather at Phoenix to return 38 stableford points to win last Friday’s outing from The Haven.

Tee Off was B1 and a tougher opening hole has yet to be found, a narrow fairway with water both sides and an elevated green with water protecting the front. How many balls were lost, one can only surmise! Generally the course was in superb condition but more growth on the Bermuda greens and a year’s maturing will make a world of difference. The greens are difficult, medium pace but all with huge slopes... better be below the hole here, and if A1 green gets any faster it will be unplayable. Generally a strange layout with a mixture of tough holes, easy holes, blind greens, doglegs and even a Thai favourite par 6.

Few managed their handicap on the day and only the ‘in form’ Randal managed to beat the course and complete two successive wins out of the Haven. In the 2’s competition, the rollover pool was shared by Takeshi, Trevor Edge & Dave Lee. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, the resident PGA Professional, welcomed back Dave Shaw, Alan Griffiths & Lim Walker. A word of warning for those visiting Pattana, the yardage on the scorecard does not always match that marked on the tees. It is probably nearer 6,600yds off yellow and 7,000yds off white!

Wednesday Oct 27
Siam Country Club
Monthly Medal

1st Division (0-15)
1st Terry Phur, 69 - c/b 32
2nd Doug Campbell, 69 - c/b 33
3rd Barry Traynor, 70 - c/b 35
2nd Division (15+)
1st Dave Spendley, 66
2nd Bob Lindborg, 70 - c/b 36
3rd Fred Ewins, 70 - c/b 37

A beautiful sunny day with a fresh breeze greeted the large turnout and some excellent scores were recorded on the day. Terry, on one of his infrequent visits to the Haven, had a real fight with Doug & Barry to take 1st division honours whilst Dave Spendley, produced the round of the day to easily beat off the higher handicappers and looks forward to a nice reduction in his handicap! The 2’s pool was shared by Brian Kelly, Takeshi Hakozaki & Malcolm Clare. Back at the Haven, Richard Livingston, welcomed back Don Frances, Tor Elguin & Gerhard Schulze.

Friday Oct 29
Phoenix Lakes/Ocean
Stableford

1st Barry Traynor, 38
2nd Chris Davisson, 37 c/b18
3rd Doug Campbell, 37 c/b17, c/b6 10
4th Randal Penrod, 37 c/b 17, c/b6 9
5th Trevor Schirmer, 35

Another large turnout which surely heralds the start of high season, though the hot and humid weather seemed as if it were March and the end of the high season. Many wilted under the intense heat but those in form players, Randal Penrod, Barry Traynor & Doug Campbell again led the way and battled it out to a very tight finish that had Richard gasping on the countbacks. Also, a highly commendable performance from Chris Davisson, coming back from illness and playing his first round for some time to score 37 points off his 8 handicap. In the 2’s competition, the pool was shared by Dave Shaw (2), Barry Winton & Takeshi Hakozaki (perhaps we should say Twokeshi after his hat-trick of 2’s in the week). Back at the Haven, Richard Livingston welcomed back Chris Davisson, Gordon Fraser & Chie Wei Ling.


A clean sweep for Mitch

PSC golf with The Bunker

Pattaya Country Club

The Boy’s from The Bunker went to Pattaya Country Club for their weekly Medal competition and played off the white tees. The day was unusually windy and the greens extremely fast. With the return of some Bunker Boy’s from their tour of Hua Hin the field was large and so was the split into two Divisions.

Clean sweep for Mitch Malone, demonstrating his putting skills.

In Division A, George Redgewell and Mitch Malone tied for first place with Mikael Andersson filling third place with net scores of 74, 74, and 75 respectively.

In Division B, Lez Hall once again walked away with first prize with net 74 followed home in second place by Neil Griffin with net 76 and Richard Feltham a further shot behind with net 77. Nearest the pins for the day were taken by Peter Hoyle, Mick Ramshaw and George Redgewell.

Century Chonburi G.C.

Century Chonburi was the venue for The Bunker’s weekly Stableford competition.

On a fine day and on a super golf course with some new showers fitted in the small, but cosy locker room, Century only costs 100 baht for green fees, which means terrific value for money. We feel sure this golf course will become much more popular when roadwork’s on the 331 eventually get finished as the travelling time will be much less. There was a three-way tie for third spot with John Preddy, Lez Hall and Mikael Andersson all finishing with 34 stableford points but Lez took the prize beating John and Mikael on count back. Steady George Redgewell finished with two points more to finish in second place but no-one could stop Mitch Malone’s hot streak as he claimed a weekly double taking first prize with 37 points. Near pins were won by, who else but Mitch with only Mikael Andersson winning the other.

Don’t forget, The Bunker Boy’s have changed to playing on Monday’s and Wednesday’s now so call into The Bunker Bar on Soi Chaiyapoon (near Exzite disco) to pick up a golf schedule or you can always consult The Pattaya Mail every week and, as usual you can get the latest information about all other sporting activities at The Bunker Bar by visiting our website @ www. bunkerboysgolf.com


Richardson, Wilson and Bailey again!

Mike Franklin

The weather was great; the greens were fast and the course generally okay. That set the scene for the October Diana Seniors & Ladies Open at Pattaya Country Club on the final week of the golf course ‘low season’.

Hamilton Wilson, Elizabeth Richardson & Arthur Bailey winners at the Diana Seniors and Ladies October tournament.

A good field of forty-five golfers returned a variety of scores, some reflecting the speed of the greens and a high putting stroke count. Just three ladies were out and all having a low Stableford points score. Elizabeth Richardson took winning place with 24 points and Mam Trayling was runner-up with 22 points. For the Seniors, Hamilton Wilson not only won but also had the best score of the day with 43 Stableford points. Alan Hughes was runner-up with 39 points. For the Super Seniors, the inevitable Arthur Bailey was first past the post with 40 points and Keith Avery just a shot behind with 39 points.

The usual technicals were on offer, near pins being claimed by John Hughes on # 5 and # 16; Roger Rush on # 7 and Alan Pearce # 12. The longest first putts were sunk by Hamilton Wilson and Chris John on # 9 and # 18 respectively.

John Cole was his usual efficient administrative self and presented the winners with the trophies and prizes. Newcomers and returnees were duly recognized in the form of Keith Hector, Hamilton Wilson, Harry Lindblom, Alan Hughes, David Johnson, John Hughes, Bernard Bailey, Brian Walker, Roger Privett, Tony Cobb and Tony Stevens.

The next scheduled Diana Seniors and Ladies Open on November 25 has given way to Papa Ray Rogers Thanksgiving tournament, so the next outing will be on Thursday December 2 combining the November & December tournaments.

Meanwhile, the Diana Gold Charity tournament takes place on Friday November 12th at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort. Sign-up for that at the Diana Inn.


Mickey Mouse Darts League

Standings October 29 - week 3

The Pleasure Dome has started where they left off last season. In just 3 weeks of competition they stand alone at the top of the ladder.

In other games Joe from Stars in your Eyes threw an 86 checkout but that doesn’t top the 108 of John from Smugglers. There were no reported 180’s last week.

The Bunker almost had a perfect night in not throwing any under 10’s until Mick threw one during the beerleg.

The OK Coral, leading the Beerlegs, reported that everyone was very drunk after consuming their fair share of the winnings.


12th annual Bangkok International Softball Tournament

The Bangkok International Softball League (BISL) is pleased to announce that the 12th Annual Bangkok International Softball Tournament will be held November 19 to 21.

The tournament will feature 20 teams, including the defending champions, Guzzlers from Korea, with over 250 athletes from Singapore, Hong Kong, Korea, The Philippines, Taiwan, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Abu Dhabi, Shanghai, California, and Thailand. Additionally, hundreds of spectators will be attending the event. The 2004 tournament will be held at the Queen Sirikit 60th Anniversary Stadium, the main venue for the 1998 Asian Games softball events. Two trophies to be awarded the winners: the Grand Championship trophy and the Governor’s Cup. It is based on a triple elimination format, which will give everyone plenty of opportunity to go home with a trophy.

Games begin Friday, November 19 at 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Championship games to be held on Sunday at 11:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Tournament T-shirts, food, soft drinks and beer will be available. The BBQ will be hosted by Darrell and his Tequila Reef crew from Pattaya cooking burgers, ribs, tacos and chili at the Klong 6 venue! What more could you ask for? Margaritas just might do the trick!

The Queen Sirikit 60th Anniversary Stadium is located next to the Rajmangkala Institute at Klong 6, about 13kms east of Future Park, on the Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok Road, Hwy 305

All fans are welcome free of charge.

The tournament is organised by the Bangkok International Softball League (BISL), a registered non-profit community group. Its sole purpose is to organize softball tournaments and leagues in Bangkok. For further details view the website with map at: http://www.bangkoksoft ball.com


Pattaya announces plans for this year’s Pattaya Open 2004

More stars, more events, tennis tournament promises to be better than ever

Ariyawat Nuamsawat

On October 20 at city hall Wirawat Khakhai, Pattaya deputy mayor called at meeting with tournament organizers to discuss plans for the Pattaya Open 2004, especially concerning a public relations campaign. The tennis tournament has a budget of over 3 million baht and organizers and sponsors joined in the brainstorming session.

Following the success of the 2003 tournament, which was well received by the tennis community, the event has now been firmly etched in the city’s sporting calendar. The meeting aimed to develop further strategy in announcing the event to the public.

The Pattaya Tennis Association welcomed the decision by the city to hold the event for the second time as the sport gains popularity in Thailand across a wide range of age groups in the wake of the nation’s number one tennis star, Paradorn Srichaphan who is currently ranked at 25 in the world.

This year’s tournament, scheduled to be held from December 10-13 at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort will include juniors - boys - under 10, 12, 14 and 18s - and girls under 10, 12, 14s. Additionally there will be an open class as well as the seniors’, ages 80, 90 and 100 as well as mixed doubles, open doubles and senior’s doubles categories.

First place trophy, under the auspices of the Tourism and Sports minister and cash prizes are on offer for the field of local and international amateur players.


Looking for a new weekend getaway?

The Royal Varuna Yacht Club in Pattaya is inviting interested Thais and expatriates to visit its impressive new clubhouse, urging potential members to sign up before membership fees go up.

The Royal Varuna Yacht Club’s new clubhouse.

Knowing how to sail is not a prerequisite. The club has coaches, rental boats and regular classes for beginning adults and children alike. For those not sure about sailing yet, other facilities include a swimming pool, private beach, international restaurant, meeting rooms, simple accommodation, and, most importantly to some, fresh air and an incredible view of the bay.

“It is only 90 minutes from Bangkok but it is like entering a ‘Garden of Eden’ compared to the stress, pollution and noise of the metropolis,” says Marcel Dubbelman, Bangkok resident and RVYC membership secretary.

“There’s nothing like getting down there on a Friday evening, pulling up a seat at the clubhouse or seaside bar, and enjoying the evening spectacle of the sun setting behind Koh Larn.”

As long-time member and sportswriter Peter Cummins says, “Having been a member for more than 30 years, the phrase I have heard most from new and potential members is ‘Why didn’t we find this earlier?’”

“The RVYC is Pattaya’s best kept secret, a truly special place,” says Nima Chandler, another long-time member.

The club features dinghy and catamaran sailing, with frequent regattas, special events, national, regional and world championships. There is a range of craft available to charter by the hour, day or week and skilled instructors are on site, for youngsters, novices and even the more experienced wishing to hone up their skills and the international yacht racing rules.

On many weekends, the RVYC also organizes special evening activities for members and their children, such as Halloween last weekend.

The new clubhouse officially opens November 13th. For more information, visit www.royal-varuna-yacht-club.com, or to arrange a visit, contact the club at 038-306-290 or by email [email protected].


Sunday Quiz League


Wednesday Quiz League

Standings October 27


Where the Fun started!

The Original Pattaya Pool League - October 25

Group A: OK Corral 5 - 4 The Bunker

It’s an interesting thing. It often follows that a good golf player makes a good pool player. For many people in both fraternities, their games will always amount to merely hitting some balls into a hole sometimes. Of course, it’s a lot easier to get a “hole in one” on the pool table than it is in golf. It’s just as easy as well to play a “round” (of golf) anywhere in Thailand as it is to play “around” in Pattaya on or off the pool table (you all know what I’m talking about!) But there’s a lot more skill involved than that, as was seen on this night. So it was that “Loy’s Boys”, were playing in their very own 19th Hole at Dennis’s Bar, OK Corral in Soi Rungland against The Bunker from Soi Chaiyapoon (3rd Road end).

US Navy Larry not sunk yet, in his match against Bob ‘Grinder’ Pierce. Colonel Grinder won the game in the end taking the OK Corral to a 1 - nil lead in the opening round.

Retired British Army Colonel Bob Pierce (“Grinder” to his new Regiment at OK Corral) stood to attention in the first showdown of the evening against US Navy veteran Larry. To date, it is classified information whether Larry was a Navy Seal (and when emailed, George Bush would not comment!). A deathly silence filled the air. It was as if No Man’s Land was the pool table with OK Corral grouped in formation inside and the Bunker flanking the roadside.

Play commenced with both sides advancing slowly. Grinder picked off 2 balls and Larry played a couple of bank shots up and down the table. It soon became apparent to him that it’s not so easy to play on a UK table as it is on the tables back home! Grinder returned fire by potting 3 more balls then snookering Larry. But slowly Larry gained ground until both players were down to 1 ball. But all along the way Grinder had been strategically ambushing pockets with his balls. When it came to his final attack he sank his last ball and then the black for victory... 1 - 0.

“Kangaroo” Bob - aptly named by his style of play of bouncing his white balls off cushions on most shots, often potting them as well - faced Tony next. Bob won the toss, broke and fouled! The atmosphere suddenly livened up as Bob then proceeded to give a running commentary of his own game to the audience. Soon Tony was left with all 7 balls on the table while Bob was already down to his last stripe before the black. But he quietly started to pick off his balls always leaving Bob snookered on his shot. But he always seemed to escape! But soon Tony was down to 3 balls. Only then did the commentary stop! Tony was all set to win but fouled. Now Bob had 2 chances to sink the black. Oops! He wasted both. They must have been too easy! Tony then calmly ended the game. One game all.

Brian was up next against Benny. Brian immediately sank several of his balls, leaving Benny struggling with a difficult shot to play next. Benny retaliated with a trick shot around the table, which went in. But Brian had left a ball “safe” over a pocket, so when it was time to finish he potted it and quickly followed with the black. “OK” 2 - 1.

It was now time for Pete aka “Red” (a snooker and mean 9-Ball player!) to play “Ice-G” (from Iceland) Grummy. “Pete” waited patiently as Ice-G immediately sank 3 balls and then another on his next shot. Pete then picked off a couple of easy balls and ruthlessly played a snooker. Grummy did well to escape the many traps that were laid for him throughout the frame but when it was time to end it all, Pete showed no mercy. “OK” 3 - 1.

Crocodile Bob was next against Prosteur (also from Iceland). Bob sank 2 stripes first forcing Prosteur to use a rest on a “long” shot (which is not often seen on 6 x 3 English tables here in Pattaya!). Whilst Bob potted 4 balls in quick succession he then fouled and soon Prosteur was down to his last coloured ball as well before the black. “Musical cushions” followed with the black and white balls ricocheting around the table. Both players had 3 chances each to win before Prosteur (Bunker) was finally victorious 3 - 2.

Last but not least, out of the shadows came Mad Dog Englishman Mr. Loy (aka Roy) (not easy to spot nowadays because of his tan from all those hours playing golf in the midday sun!) to play against long time friend Dave “The Destroyer”. Dave swiftly potted 4 balls then Roy potted 2 and then forced Dave to foul. Roy sank 3 more and snookered Dave but he played a bank shot potting his ball in the centre! The Destroyer was on the warpath!

But while trying to snooker Roy with a soft shot Dave fouled leaving Roy his chance for victory. But then Roy, to everyone’s amazement, missed a tricky black into the centre leaving Dave an easy shot to finish. 3 games all at half time!

With the massaman curry all finished it was time for Kangaroo and Red to play Dave and Tony. It was close as both teams played their best but soon it was 4 - 3 to “OK”.

Grummy and Prosteur hit back and snatched the next game off Crocodile Bob and Brian. So it was all down to the last game. Grinder and Roy, with their combined years of experience on and off the battlefield took OK Corral to victory against Larry and Benny. It was a true gentlemen’s evening with a fine display of sportsmanship all round. And not a single “fore!” from wayward balls was shouted all night!


Brazilians open up a gap and show their class

MGMG Bangkok Casuals League - Week 4

‘While the cats are away, the mice will play...’, so the saying goes. And whilst the cool cats of the teachers’ teams of Patana and Shrewsbury took a well-earned rest following two or three tiring weeks in front of their whiteboards, none played more than those battling Brazilian boys. They opened up a two point gap at the top with a comfortable 3 -1 victory over the inscrutable Bangkok United. With a strong squad, combining youth and experience, and a lovely kit, combining blue and yellow, the beefy Bulls Head braves have gone a long way to justifying their position as (Soi) 33/1 favorites.

You would expect a team of farang men from Pattaya to be used to playing away from home, and the boys from the Racing Club certainly shook their Londoner hosts by taking a 2 - 0 lead. The Londoners proved to be no Southern softies though and fought back gamely to grab a 2 - 2 draw. This result sees Racing Club Pattaya move up to 2nd place, proving that there’s more to the social life in their neck of the woods than seedy joints, of one type or another

The (relatively) mighty Dubliner’s recent improvement in form continued with a 4 - 1 thumping of those well paid but under performing Bangkok Blitz boys, who seem to be finding life in this year’s Casual’s League harder to direct than one of their music videos

The only true ‘casual’ team left in the league may well be the stalwarts of the British Club Casuals, who play in that most British of styles - consistently losing. This weeks lucky winners were the new look German All Stars (all of whose new look stars are not, in fact, German) whose 3 - 1 victory means that they have now accumulated more points than their total for the whole of last season. Schnell or what?

Finally, The Winking Frog gave a much improved performance against the Scandinavian Vikings, recording a record high of two goals and conceding a record low of four. As another saying goes, and thanks to Yazz for this one; ‘The Only Way is Up.’

Week 4 Results: The Winking Frog FC 2 vs. 4 Scandinavian Vikings, Londoner FC 2 vs. 2 Racing Club Pattaya, The Dubliner 4 vs. 1 Blitz FC, Bulls Head Brazilians 3 vs. 1 Bangkok United British Club Casuals 1 vs. 3 German All Stars.


Sriracha run to honor HM Queen Sirikit’s 72nd birthday - November 14

The Ratchatewi Hospital Sriracha and Pan Asia Footwear Plc have joined forces in organizing the 18th annual Sriracha Race. This year’s event will be held in honor of HM Queen Sirikit’s 72nd birthday celebrations.

The 10 kilometer run, scheduled to begin at 6.30 a.m. in front of Sriracha’s Koh Loy roundabout on Sunday November 14.

Runners will make their way up to and south along Sukhumvit Road before returning to the finish line before the roundabout.

Runners from all ages and nationalities are invited to join in one of the 5 categories: Boys/Girls under 15, Men/Women’s Open class, Men’s Women’s 31-40 age group, Women’s 41 and above class and Men’s 51 and above group. Winners of Men’s and Women’s classes will receive the Princess Sirindhorn Trophy as well as 2,000 baht worth of Pan products. Runners-up and third and fourth places will also receive sponsors’ gifts with the first 100 runners receiving an event Pan T-shirt.

Proceeds from the event will be handed over a Royal Charity under the patronage of HRH Princess Sirindhorn as part of a building fund to construct the ‘Chalermprakiat 100 year’ building at the Ratchatewi Hospital in Sriracha.

Further details and entry forms are available from Pan Asia Footwear Plc, 038-480713-4; Ratchatewi Hospital Sriracha, 038-322157 ext. 1117-1174; Tuk Com Sriracha, 038-322870-2; Robinson Department Store Sriracha, 038-771111-20 ext. 3063; Sport Dome (Laem Thong Branch, Rayong), 038-62 288-9, or Tesco Lotus North Pattaya 038-370916-43.


The Square Ring

by Howie Reed

If you’re a fan of really good fighters from the Land of Smiles you got to love Yoddamrong Sithyodthong (40-1-1). Of course if you are, please realize that he’s been fed a diet of guys that you never heard of and never will. Fact is, he just might be “really “over rated not to be confused with just regular over rated. The one real quality opponent was Lad of the Rising Sun Osamu (21-1) in May of 2002. He lost by KO. That aside, he gets a shot at maybe the best darn Super Bantam in the world when he takes on Mahyar Monshipour (25-2-2) in Paris on November 8th. Mahyar has had most all of his fights in France and appears on the assent. Could be a short night for the visitor from Thailand. Suppose to be shown on Channel 7 in South East Asia. Yes Paris, that’s the home of the wine drinking, cheese eating surrender monkeys where a draw is victory.

Sometimes even when I’m kind of wrong it turns out I’m kind of right. Last week I wrote, “Maybe up next for Harris is a fight with the undefeated Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton (37-0). Reports out of Britain had Harris turning down $400,000 American dollars to fight Hatton on Hatton’s home ground. With Hatton promoter Frank Warren doing the talking there is a better than 50-50 shot that he’s telling “porky’s. Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton would love a shot but knowing Hatton’s management Harris will say, “Thanks but no thanks. The Harris in this case of course was Vivian Harris the 140lb king. Mr. M. John read and reacted.

“Are you kidding when you say Hatton would love a shot at Harris? Hatton recently vacated his WBA number 1 spot rather than face Harris. Hatton is the biggest joke in boxing and has been carefully avoiding every big name at 140lbs for the past year and a half!” I would disagree as I don’t think it’s Hatton as much as it is his manager Frank Warren. I have never known a fighter that didn’t think he could whip the other guy. That’s why they do what they do. Instead of a real fight Hatton has opted out for a December 11 date at the Docklands in London against Ray Oliveira (47-9). The promoters seem to be hanging their hats on the fact that Oliveira had a victory over Harris four years ago. Oliveira’s last few are suspect. All wins over Hicklet Lau (19-11), Jerry Smith (14-58) and Bryon Mackie (21-8). Not exactly household names.

Another boxer from the UK who is probably out of luck is Joe Calzaghe. He said he wanted to fight at light heavy and wanted Glencoffe Johnson. Also in line for Johnson is Clinton Woods who recently got a “w”. To win what was billed as an “IBF title eliminator.” Woods had to climb off the canvas from a first round knockdown to KO Aussie Jason DeLisle in the 12th. A flurry of lefts and rights caused the bout to be stopped with less than a minute left.

“I haven’t felt like this for two or three years,” said a jubilant Woods. At the time it was reported, “The victory keeps the Englishman on course for a third meeting with IBF 175lbs champion Glen Johnson.” Not going to happen. Why? Because Glencoffe Johnson and Antonio Tarver will meet on December 11 (December 12, Thailand Time although same year) in Los Angeles. Yes, it will match the two conquerors of Roy Jones jr. It should be one hell of a scrap. If Traver wins, both Calgaze and Woods are left out in the cold. Rumor has them telling their respective ranking organization to take a hike before the fight. Then no sanctioning fee’s and no titles. Do they care? Nope. “Show them the money.”

Then we have the continuing saga of WBO Featherweight champion Scott Harrison (22-2-1). Harrison is a training partner and pal of “Dapper” Dave Stewart a frequent visitor to Pattaya. On Friday last (Limey Time) he made the third defense of his title against previously unbeaten Ethiopian Samuel Kebede (24-0) at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow. Last week I wrote, “He fights Samuel Kebede who is a payday but not going to help Harrison in world rankings or stature.” Late Friday night the BBC wrote, “Harrison defended his title for the fifth time in farcical circumstances with opponent Samuel Kebede lasting 59 seconds before the fight was stopped.” Prior to the fight Harrision said, “After defeating Kebede I will look at the prospect of fighting WBC Champion Injin Chi.” At the same time the Sports Network said, “that the Chi match-up is 80% done”. There goes promoter Frank Warren again telling “Porky’s”. Kusung Lee of Poongsan Promotions of Korea has definitively denied that WBC featherweight champ Injin Chi would fight WBO ruler Scott Harrison in a unification bout. Lee continued, “ Nothing involving a Chi-Harrison match-up was done and Chi would never go and fight Harrison in Great Britain. Chi’s priorities are his December 18 defense in Korea.”

Nice big time fight for Thailand’s Fahsan 3-K as he seems to have the inside track on a December 4 tune up fight with Manny Pacquiao. Gary St. Clair was the original boxer slated to face Pacquiao in Manila as a tune up for Pacquiao’s February 26 rematch in Las Vegas against Juan Manuel Marquis. The word is that someone in the PacMan’s camp “preferred to pit Manny against another banger, as opposed to a slick boxer like St. Clair.”

St. Clair’s management was quick to issue a statement claiming Pacquiao is scared to fight St. Clair.” There may some truth to that feeling. Both 3-K and St. Clair have about the same ratio of knockouts to wins. St.Clair 15 from 35 and 3-K 23 from 44. One would suspect that the PacMan’s folks see 3-K as the easier test. Someone might be in for a surprise.

Former WBC fly champ Medgoen Singsurat (38-3,25 KOs) was impressive as he retained his ABCO superfly title last Friday at Central Stadium in Pitsanuloke. He got an 8th round TKO over Lad from the Rising Sun Katsumi Makiyama (9-3,2 KOs). Medgoen ended the fight with a plethoric flashing fury of prodigious punches at 2:12. On the same card WBC Youth fly title holder Fahpetchnoi Sor Chitpattana knocked out Robert Rubillar in three. How about that?

On Sunday morning (Pattaya Time) Kostya Tszyu (30-1) and Sharmba Mitchell (55-3) will finally get it on in a match the IBF 140lb title. The first time was some three years ago. It was a barnburner as long as it lasted. Mitchell “retired” after the 7th with an injured knee. What was really injured was Mitchell’s ego when Tszyu took everything and laughed in the face of danger. Some in attendance that night though that Mitchell quit like a dog. That would have been me. The only question here is “will Kostya Zszyu be able to shake off the ring rust after being inaction for over a year?” Me thinks he will. Let’s have a toddy.


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