SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Martinez breaks four year title drought at Volvo Women’s Open

Khon Kaen and Nakhon Si Thammarat take out top beach titles in Pattaya

Pattaya Marriott Koh Larn Classic for Feb.19

Volvo players spend free time teaching kids at tennis clinic

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

Last call for the 10th Annual Classroom Charity Classic

O”Hares O’Hound the Field

PSC golf from McAllister’s Bar & Grill

PSC golf from The Bunker

Londoner and Dubliner on cruise control

Tight Finish at Chonburi

A fit Barry Winton takes home the honours

Mai Thai only 4-0 winner this week

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar

PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg

PH3 - Run #1091

The Square Ring

Serenity Shipyard at Ocean Marina goes into high gear

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Martinez breaks four year title drought at Volvo Women’s Open

(AP) - Former Wimbledon champion Conchita Martinez claimed her first title in more than four years Sunday after grinding out a 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 win over Anna Lena Groenefeld of Germany to win the WTA Volvo Women’s Open.

Conchita Martinez (left) and Anna-Lena Groenefeld share the podium after the Volvo Women ‘s Open tennis tournament finals. Martinez beat Groenefeld 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to win this year’s title. (Pattaya Mail/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

Drawing on her superior experience, third-seeded Martinez rallied from a second set loss to beat the 19-year-old, seventh-seeded German in two hours and six minutes for her 33rd career title. Her last singles title was at Berlin in 2000.

“It was tough at the beginning of the week but I felt better towards the end,” the 32-year-old Spaniard told reporters.

Anna-Lena Groenefeld from Germany returns the ball to Conchita Martinez of Spain in the final round of the Volvo Women ‘s Open tennis tournament at the Dusit Resort Pattaya on Sunday February 6. (Pattaya Mail/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

Groenefeld played the more aggressive game for most of the first two sets but committed too many errors.

In the third, Martinez combined a variety of shots to keep Groenefeld off balance and break for a 4-3 lead. She dominated play from then on and sealed the match with a forehand winner down the line.

Martinez won Wimbledon in 1994 and was ranked as high as No. 2 in 1995, but her ranking slumped to 42nd by the end of last year.

Spain’s Conchita Martinez Spain returns the ball to Anna-Lena Groenefeld during of the Volvo women’s open tennis finals on Sunday. (Pattaya Mail/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

The Volvo Women’s Open tournament also marked the return to tennis of former top-ranked Martina Hingis, who lost to Germany’s Marlene Weingartner 1-6, 6-2, 6-2 in the first round.

Hingis hadn’t played since October 2002 after injuring her ankle. She said she had no plans for an extended comeback and would see how she felt after the tournament.

Volvo Women’s Open Results?

Results Sunday from the US$170,000 (€131,000) WTA Volvo Women’s Open at Dusit Resort Pattaya (seeding in parentheses):

Singles Championship

Conchita Martinez (3), Spain, def. Anna-Lena Groenefeld (7), Germany, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.?

Doubles Championship

Marion Bartoli, France, and Anna Lena Groenefeld (2), Germany, def. Marta Domachowska, Poland, and Silvija Talaja, Croatia, 6-3, 6-2.


Khon Kaen and Nakhon Si Thammarat take out top beach titles in Pattaya

Shark Games 2005

Ariyawat Nuamsawat

Students from Nakhon Si Thammarat dominated both the boys and girls beach volleyball events on Jomtien Beach last Friday. The northeastern boys from Khon Kaen defeated all comers to win the Beach Football titles in this year’s Shark Games.

The boys from Khon Kaen (blue) were too good for Angtong. Khon Kaen won 8 -5 in the finals of the Beach Football in front of Pattaya Park last Friday morning.

The sand in front the Pattaya Park Hotel was turned into a virtual battlefield from January 28 to February 4 as 48 provincial teams took to the volleyball courts and 12 to the footballs pitch.

The boys beach volleyball finals saw Nakhon Si Thammarat (purple) take two sets against Nakhon Ratchasima.

However, it was on the final rounds that saw the victors emerge. In the football Khon Kaen faced Angtong 1 in the finals with Angtong kicking off the match. It wasn’t long before the Northeasterners slammed in the first two goals, an omen to the final whistle.

Angtong fought back hard but were unable to best Khon Kaen and, at full time the northeasterners sunk Angtong 8 goals to 5 to win the trophy.

The Nakhon Si Thammarat girls (right) beat their central counterparts two sets to nil to scoop the volleyball titles in this year’s Shark Games.

On the other side of the temporary sandy sports field another battle was raging as Nakhon Si Thammarat faced off Nakhon Ratchasima in the girl’s class and Saraburi in the boys for the Beach Volley ball finals. The Nakhon Si Thammarat girls took victory 2 sets to 0 scoring 21:21 and 21: 18 against their central region counterparts. The boys had an even easier time as they crushed Saraburi 21:18 and 21:9 in the beach volleyball.

With a full day of competition over, the winners were presented medals for their efforts before moving off to the Chonburi Stadium for the close of the annual Thailand Student Games, aka Shark Games, which were presided over by Sontaya Khunplome, Tourism and Sports minister.

Next year’s annual games will move north to Lampung where students from around the country will take to the field of competition.


Pattaya Marriott Koh Larn Classic for Feb.19

Byline Peter Cummins, Pattaya

Sponsored for the past 14 years by the Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa, this year’s Sail-run carnival will be up to all expectations.

Yes, t is that time of the year again - well, almost - when the Bangkok Hash House Harriers and Harriet’s team up with the Royal Varuna Yacht Club sailors, for the always-exciting Koh Larn Classic which features two sailing legs and a run (on legs, also, one could assume) across the spine of Koh Larn.

This year’s Pattaya Marriott Koh Larn Classic course, a veritable Sail-run Carnival. (courtesy of Gilbert Leemann)

Khun Somsak Tanruengsri, the Pattaya Marriott Cluster General Manager looks forward to the event every year and at this, the 15th, to be held on Saturday, 19 February the Resort will be providing the usual great victuals. Supporting sponsors such as Schenker Stinnes Logistics, Technilink and Photo Bank will provide the usual liquid refreshments, music and polo shirts.

Any wishing to participate should arrive at Royal Varuna Yacht Club (you can see the new Club-house, too) no later than 10.00, Saturday morning (19/02) for selection of skipper/runner. After all, if you arrive late, it is usually only the ugly ones left (skipper AND runner).

Veterans David Wales, Gilbert Leemann and their (t)rusty Lieutenants and marshals will be have everything well organized, as usual.

Inquiries and/or further information should be addressed to Royal Varuna Yacht Club, 038 306 290; fax: 038 250 115; website: royal-varuna-yacht-club.com


Volvo players spend free time teaching kids at tennis clinic

Ariyawat Nuamsawat

Four players from the Volvo Women’s Tennis tournament took time out to pass on their knowledge to the next generation of players. Doubles finalists Marta Dohachowksa of Poland and Silvija Talaja of Croatia joined Mashona Washington and Jennifer Hopkins, both from the United States in a tennis clinic for kids at the Dusit Resort Pattaya.

Marta Dohachowksa played doubles with a number of budding young players.

Children of all ages were split into two grades, Pro-Am and general, were given tips and techniques on how to improve their game by the four WTA professional players.

For 2 hours the children and the ladies of tennis took to the courts for some fun and hard practice as mums and dads watched the children enjoy their time.

Over 20 young tennis pro’s in training took part in the clinic.


PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

The end of January brought a slew of golfers for the Monday Competition. The going was tough for some and easy for others. Daryl Evans, who just started golf, demolished the field with 43 points. The only problem was, he did not stay for the announcement of the winner and did not put down his handicap. Checking his card, it looks like his handicap was 36. Just back of Daryl was old-timer Derek Brook with 41 Points. Derek shot an excellent game and was declared winner by default.

Following the leaders were Bill Key with 38 points and Joan Jacinto with 37 points. Bill, swinging easier, was hitting the ball well when he kept his eyes on the ball. He could have won the day, but at times he looked for his ball down the fairway before he made contact and duffed a few. We’re sure that he will win in the near future.

There was a hard fight for the bottom spot this week. Paul Donohue, now in from Saudi, and the geriatrics Marvin Smith and Rollie Weese, really had a go for the cellar. It was a close competition but Paul won out at the end with 13 points.

Marvin, the oldster at 82 years, managed to out point Paul by a huge 3 points. Rollie was not far behind with 17. It was a great day with a great field of golfers. As usual, all the groups kept up with the group in front, including the oldsters, which makes it enjoyable for everyone.


Last call for the 10th Annual Classroom Charity Classic

February 16

The 10th Classroom Charity Classic is due to tee off on Wednesday February 16. Pete Stonebridge, Classroom owner is pleased to offer his patrons and area golfers an always popular shotgun start, as he did last year.

In addition, the tournament will be held on the unique St. Andrews 2000 layout, with one important modification. The somewhat awkward par 6, 4th hole will be modified. It will be converted to a par 5, and the tee box will be placed about 150 yards to the right of the original Blue, Yellow and White tee box. This will eliminate the double water crossing that has been known to disrupt the tempo of the round and the golfer.

Entry fees will include green fee, caddy fee, 1/2 cart/buggy fee, presentation buffet, golf cap, trophies and lucky draw prizes. All profits from the tournament and lucky draw will be handed over to Woody Underwood and The Jester’s Care for Kids Program at the evening’s awards presentation, which Peter has graciously guaranteed to be a minimum of 100,000 baht! As many in Pattaya know, the Care for Kids Program has consistently assisted Eastern Seaboard children, and more recently, the children impacted by the tsunami in southern Thailand. Flyers with particulars are posted at many of the area golf venues.


O”Hares O’Hound the Field

IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s

Sunday Jan. 30
Green Valley
Stableford

1st A Flight: John Emmerson, 42 pts
2nd A Flight: Ian Ashenden, 39 pts
3rd A Flight: Paul Coutoumas, 38 pts
1st B Flight: Dave Mather, 43 pts
2nd B Flight: John Hillier, 42 pts
3rd B Flight: Jim Munns, 41 pts
1st C Flight Chas Li, 45 pts
2nd C Flight: Glen Perkinson, 41 pts
3rd C Flight: J.J. Wright, 37 pts
1st D Flight: Fred Theobald, 44 pts
2nd D Flight: Paul Shaw, 41 pts
3rd D Flight: Alec Hoare, 35 pts
Near Pins: #13 Bob Patterson; #16 Chas Li

It was time to feel good about our games, and what better way to do it then having a day out at the Sunday configured Green Valley “layin”. (It is a “layout” on the weekdays.) There is no better way of to improve your game than to play an easier course. Consistent with the current climate of conservatism, it’s sort of an “ends” justifying the means” type deal. Well the lads and lasses kindly obliged, firing one 45, a 44, a 43, a couple of 42s, a few 41s and a 40. You would have to go to the lingerie shop across from the plastic surgeon’s office to see those kinds of numbers!

But lest the efforts of the winners be diminished realize many in the big Sunday field did not fair so well. So hats off to the Man of the Match, Chas Li, who has seen his handicap plummet since his arrival several weeks ago, and who broke 80 for the first time in his career, had a 45 point output plus a Near Pin. Chas’ winning C Flight score bettered the 40 points of Glen Perkinson and the 38 of J.J. Wright. That 38 of J.J.’s had a stronger finish than the count back losing Irish Crustacean.

Uncle Fred Theobald was the second top man with 44 points and he led the always productive duo of Paul Shaw and Alec Hoare in the junior Flight. Alec’s 35 points held up to count back scrutiny to better Brian’s better half, Linda Lee and the face only a new wife could love, Sugar Ray Hanford. The somewhat miserly 35 points of Alec may need to be sent out for augmentation so as to stay abreast of the other scores. (I couldn’t have used that line if Linda had won the count back!)

Dave “Jerry” Mather (the guy who played The Beaver in “Leave It to...”) (Don’t write in, I know there was an “s” on the end) took the top spot in B Flight leaving the amicable Johnny Hillier and Capt. Fogg adrift by one shot increments.

The ol’ Golf Manager led the premiere Flight into the barn with 42 points, in the first event of a week that would have earned anyone else the title slot. But he already has his name in the paper as much as Mike and Woody. So enough already! Ian, soon to be leaving for golf employment in England threw a marvelous gross 69, 39 point effort, garnering no help from his “zero” handicap. Paul Coutoumas, in his first Society comp since arriving this year, swept up the remaining A Flight loot.

Monday Jan. 31
Noble Place
A & B - White Tees
Stableford

1st Blue Flight: Tom McManus, 40 pts
2nd Blue Flight: John Emmerson, 37 pts
3rd Blue Flight: Darren Smith, 36 pts
1st White A Flight: Colin Davis, 39 pts
2nd White A Flight; John Hillier, 38 pts
3rd White A Flight: Mark Graham, 38 pts
1st White B Flight: Neal Barton, 37 pts
2nd White B Flight: Mike Etheridge, 35 pts
3rd White B Flight; Frank Deering, 34 pts
Near Pins: # C8 Brian Lee; # D8 Chuck Carriere

Tom McManus who darn near paid for this vacation with his Society winnings, capped off his fine play with a best on the day 40 points in the Blue Flight, no less. Our over exposed Golf Manager continued his fine play since coming off the IR with a second place winning 37 points from the Blues, followed in close order by Darren “Double D” Smith, who made this his last trip before returning to improve his bunker play in Iraq. Stay safe Pal!

Well I wish this sentence was about how the World’s Nicest Guy, John Hillier, or Mark “Stretch” Graham beat The Donkey in the A Flight of the White Division. But if you have read this column before, you know that good guys seldom beat The Donkey. With that dream vanquished, all that was left was to sort out that The WNG had the count back better of His Lankiness.

Neal Barton who tasted lucre for the first time last week, thought he would like to see Pattaya from the top step of the podium and well he did by taking the junior Flight of the White Division. Mike Etheridge slipped enough loot for a bar fine into his pocket for second while Dublin’s Frank Deering nicked, on count back, Monsieur John Clements for third.

Wednesday Feb. 2
Eastern Star
White Tees
Stableford

1st A Flight: Chuck Carriere, 36 pts
2nd A Flight: Eddie Blackwell, 36 pts
3rd A Flight: Steve Smith, 36 pts
1st B Flight: Jim Munns, 38 points
2nd B Flight: Colin Davis, 35 pts
3rd B Flight: Jan Eriksen, 34 pts
1st C Flight: Poo Supaporn, 38 pts
2nd C Flight: Sugar Ray Handford, 38 pts
3rd C Flight: Lucy O’Hare, 35 pts
Near Pins: #3 - John Emmerson; #17 Gary Blackburne

Now get off the scribe’s case about the GM not having the title spot. The Col. started hot, but what has he done for you lately. Anyway, the case for our title bearers starts here, albeit humbly, but then it has been previously confessed that this column does support schmoozing for capitalistic gain. Customer First... yada, yada, yada.

But first, a word about Capt. Fogg and his best on the day 38 points in B Flight which left The Donkey 3 points adrift and the Tranquil Jan Eriksen yet another back. The Chuckster finally suffered enough to bump his handicap up to a 10, and needed everyone of ‘em, plus good distribution, to wrest A Flight’s first place from the count back losing duo of Eddie Blackwell and Houston’s Steve Smith.

The GM’s SO struck again as she forced her handicap down to 26 with a count back victory in C Flight over Sugar Ray. Watch this space, sub-20 is clearly in the offing for Poo, given her current rate of improvement. And then who knows? And, fanfare please, one half of the title duet O’Hares, that being the lovely Lucy, took third on count back over Uncle Fred, which is good ‘cause he’s older than dirt and we have to see him all the time ‘cause he lives here.

Friday Feb. 4
Century Banchang
White Tees
Stroke/Medal

1st A Flight: Mike Allidi, net 70
2nd A Flight: Steve Smith, net 71
3rd A Flight: Chuck Carriere, net 71
1st B Flight: John O’Hare, net 68
2nd B Flight: Robert Sellick, net 70
3rd B Flight: K.C. Johnson, net 73
1st C Flight: Tony “AD” Jones, net 68
2nd C Flight: Lucy O’Hare, net 70
3rd Place C Flight: Poo Supaporn, net 70
Near Pins: #7 Robert Sellick; #13 Andy Leach

At last, ultimate title vindication comes in the person of John O’Hare, Lucy’s other half, who was Co-Man of the Match with a net 68, bettering the 70 of Robert Sellick, OBE, and the 73 of Mr. Johnson, KC. I know no one feels bad about it, but KC snatched third on a count back over The Donkey.

Ironically our other Man of the Match, Tony “AD” Smith, was accompanied by his spouse as well which either speaks do the inspirational value of having your life’s partner along, or to the fact of having a sympathetic marker. (Just kidding!) Two ladies chased AD home (so that’s why his wife came along) with our title gal taking the better of the count back over Col. JE’s SO. (kinda into this initials thing now.) John and Lucy are not our first betrothed winners, the Duxbury’s, Foote’s, Hollingsworth’s, Koehler’s, Lee’s, and Theobald’s come to mind, (note alphabetical order so no one feels slighted), but they are certainly the most recent. It is nice to see such wholesomeness will out in this town where wholesomeness dares rear its head. Of course, if the town becomes any more wholesome, many of the Society members are moving to Cambodia.

Two-thirds of the A Flight winners, in the persons of count back locked Chuck Carriere and Steve Smith, knew their way up to the podium because they had just been there two day before. The newcomer, and a top flight player, Mike Allidi made his return to Society play a dramatic one as he stood atop the premier Flight.


PSC golf from McAllister’s Bar & Grill

Friday Feb. 4
Century Ban Chang
Stableford

This was another great turnout for this popular weekly event with 35 players vying for the honors on match day.

With Dennis Willett handling the starting proceedings things got off to a very orderly start; who is going to argue with rather large Dennis? The golf course continues to improve and the greens were far more consistent for this outing than a week before which may account for some of the excellent scores posted. If any criticism was noted of the course it was only that watering may be a little heavy handed in places.

(l-r) Herb Schweiterman, Ray Spurling Mikael Anderson (right) pose with the vivacious vocalist responsible for musical enjoyment outside McAllister’s Bar & Grill.

The new clubhouse is an improvement with much additional seating available in the restaurant and more lockers now available. Hopefully a little better organization of the arrival/check in procedures will cause less confusion after the staff gets settled in to the new layout.

The jovial Don McAllister was on hand to greet the golfers at his establishment and, as we have come to expect, had arranged for a very fine buffet spread to be enjoyed along with a libation or two and the very versatile trio providing good easy listening music.

The days results were announced by the tournament director and a big hand given to all the winners especially big Ray Spurling in first with a super round generating 42 points. In second with 41 points was the ever competitive Mikael Andersson with 41. Third spot went to Herb Schweiterman after winning on count back over Dene Mundy when both came in with 41 points. A special note of congratulations went to Bob Lawrence for posting 38 points for two weeks in succession.


PSC golf from The Bunker

Burapha Country Club

The final round of January was held at Burapha and was once again in first class order when the boys from the Bunker went there to play a medal round. There were several top contenders matched together to determine the winner for January’s Golfer of the Month competition.

Playing off the short white tees the scores were low. In Division “A” Granville Swanton and Brian Bellis shared first place with net 70. Wilf Latham and John O’Reilly came third both with net 71. In Division “B” David Johnson shot the best round of the day net 69. Winning the competition and the victory for January’s “Golfer of the Month”. He took a slim one point lead into the final round and held of Granville Swanton down the stretch to secure the victory. Joint second with 71 net were Frank Baker and George Redgewell. Nearest the pins were Brian Bellis, John Truman and David Johnson.

Century Ban Chang

A cloudy cool day at Century Bang Chang, a new clubhouse that is not much better than the old clubhouse, the boys from the Bunker went to play a Stableford competition.

The field was split into two groups “ A & B” in group “A” Haken Widestedt returned the best score of the day, 40 stableford points, to win. Second with 38 points was George Redgewell and third was John Hughes with 35 points. In Group “B” Mick Ramshaw scored 34 points to win, second Jim Payne with 35 points and third was David Johnson with 33 points. Near the pins were Thea Von Spellen, Rick Ramshaw and Haken Widestedt.

Eastern Star Country Club

On Friday February 4 the Bunker Boys held a medal competition at Eastern Star. Two flights “A & B” with the best score of the day was in group “A”, Rab McDonald returned a fine 69 net to take first prize, second place was Brian Bellis with net 74 and third was shared between John Hughes and Rodger Privett both with net 75. In Group “B” Dutchman Jan Von Spellen was the victor with a one under Par net 71. Mick Ramshaw came second with net 73, and in third place Jim Payne with net 74. Near pins were won by Alan Sullivan, Glen Reaume, Thea Von Spellen and Billy Steele.

The Bunker Boys are playing three times a week during the high season, (Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s) so if you would like a round of golf, call into the Bunker Bar on Soi Chaiyapoon (near X-zyte disco and across the street from Tony’s Disco II) to pick up a golf schedule or consult the Pattaya Mail every week and, as usual, you can get the latest information by visiting our website @ www.bunkerboysgolf.com


Londoner and Dubliner on cruise control

MBMG Casuals League - Week 16

Bangkok’s football world, still reeling following charges of ‘ungentlemanly conduct’ being brought against several of the Casual Leagues ungentlemen, breathed a sigh of relief when it was announced that Sir Bobby ‘Grandpop’ Robson was set to touch down in the big mango to sort it out, ‘from the top to the bottom (Blitz; played 14, lost 14)’. Supported by John Dykes and his gang of footballing ex-pats (Paul Mariner and Chevy Chase, or something like that), Sir Bobby shall be meeting with the league’s top brass next Thursday at The Conrad Hotel - and after seeing her will no doubt talk with someone about football for a bit. Next week’s high-profile summit cannot come sooner for under-fire league supremo Chris ‘Somtam’ Sanderson, who has been advised not to leave his luxury condominium since instituting radical changes to the league’s rules following last week’s ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday’ events.

Sir Bobby (who gained his nickname from his love of a Clive Dunn ‘pop’ record) will be faced with a barrage of questions upon his arrival, including “Where you come from?” “How long you stay?” and “Do you like ping-pong?” Once these are out of the way, Britain’s 2nd favourite toothless Geordie (after Peter Beardsley) will need to answer these important questions:

Should the league’s name be changed from The Casuals League, to The Really Quite Serious and Often Very Stroppy League?

How can The Dubliner be stopped from gaining a fourth title in four years?

What can be done about the continuing poor level of support from the female farang community? (Interestingly, several of the teams seem to well supported by local girls, some even dressing up in special costumes of big heeled shoes and tiny skirts - crazy girls!)

What’s your funniest story about Paul Gascoigne that does not involve plastic breasts?

Following last week’s shenanigans, this weekend’s games were a little muted with a round of largely unsurprising results. League leaders The Dubliner edged RC Pattaya 2 - 0, whilst there were comfortable 3 - 0 wins for The Bulls Head Brazilians, Seaboard FC and the unbeaten Londoner against Patana, British Club Casuals and a still reeling Les Gaulois, respectively.

Elsewhere, GAS and Robin Hood shared the points with a 1-1 draw, whilst the muscular Scans squeaked past the diminutive Bangkok United 2 -1. Sunday saw the inaugural match at AFC Shrewsbury’s ground, the Bounce-a-Drome, with the Shrews shaking off a run of recent poor results (6 straight defeats) with an impressive 6 - 0 victory against Blitz - unbeaten at home anyway boys!

Results (Week 16):

German All Stars 1 vs. 1 Robin Hood FC; Patana 0 vs. 3 Bulls Head Brazilians; The Dubliner 2 vs. 0 Racing Club Pattaya; Londoner FC 3 vs. 0 Les Gaulois de Bangkok; Seaboard FC 3 vs. 0 British Club Casuals; AFC Shrewsbury 6 vs. 0 Blitz FC; Scandinavian Vikings 2 vs. 1 Bangkok United.


Tight Finish at Chonburi

IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral

On Tuesday, February 1, another large group of golfers left the OK Corral in Soi Rungland to take the ever improving route 331 to faraway Century Chonburi for their weekly medal event.

The course was well presented, as usual, but the greens were heavily scarred by studs caused by some unthinking golfers in front of the party. The two groups were cut at seventeen and under and in division two the contest was a tight one with Roy Mitchell and Barry Pethig vying for the third place honours with their net 75s, one behind Brian Bellis’ net 74.

Leading the flight was Tony Shepherd and his net 73 was one of five identical scores on the day. The other four came in the top flight and were shot by third placed Mark Joshua, Wilf Latham, Nile Sheehan and John Cunningham. There were joint winners in the flight with Mike Allidi emulating his feat of the week before, dropping three shots on two easy par threes to come in with a gross 75, net 72, and “mackem” Trevor “Sam” Fitzsimmons playing well again to post the same score. Mike Allidi took the rolled over twos pot, lucky guy, and poor Mark Gooch had the embarrassment of receiving the Bananas for his indiscreet treatment of a green which also cost him a club fine. Not so the aforementioned tap dancers, we fear.

Little and Large Dominate Ban Chang

The OK Corral’s weekly stableford outing was contested at Century Ban Chang on Thursday, February 3, under clear skies and on a beautifully prepared golf course with fast, consistent greens. The cut was at seventeen and under and it was destined to be a tight encounter from the start.

In division one Uwe Schroder and the diminutive Mark Graham, on his annual visit from the States, went head-to-head sharing third place with scores of 34 points, one behind Keith Hector and his 35. The day’s flight winner was the chirpy Nile Sheehan, taking his first OK victory with a score of 37 points. In division two Les Hall took third place with a fine 37 points, but all were eclipsed by the form of big Brian Bellis and the lesser sized Roy Mitchell whose 39 points shared the top podium place. Roy’s game was excellent and only the return of his dreaded putting “yips” put paid to an even better total. Not for the first time did he pull out a “big ‘un” at Ban Chang! His short game is now as good as anyone’s at the OK, even the more skilful single figure handicappers. Surprisingly there were no birdie two’s but the major shock of the day was the dreadful form of Mark Joshua whose game has seemingly gone to pieces. It is so sad to see such a fine golfer suffering the fate of the Bananas but what else does a meagre total of fifteen points merit? It is always a good experience to play at Ban Chang and for Brian, Roy and Nile it was especially tasty.


A fit Barry Winton takes home the honours

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday Jan. 31
Pattaya Country Club
Stableford

Division 1
1st Barry Winton, 40 pts
2nd John Weldon, 33 pts - cb9 17, cb6 15
3rd Glynn Thomas, 33 - cb9 17, cb6 13
Division 2
1st Tony Quaid, 35 pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn, 34 pts - cb9 18
3rd Gordon Langtry, 34 pts - cb9 15
Ladies
1st Kate Mason, 28 pts - cb9 16
2nd Trudie Chadbourn, 28 pts - cb9 13

Division one winner was no surprise to anyone that has seen Barry recently, having lost over 8 stone (1 stone =14 lbs in old money for you continental readers and those of you born after 1972) as he is now a lean, super fit machine with forearms three times the current size of the Docs’ legs. His 40 points easily swept aside the other contenders and ensured that his handicap will be axed over the weekend.

Division 2 was a much tighter affair with Tony Quaid at last getting to the top of the pile after months of hard work both in the gym and on the practice area.

Kate Mason just edged out Trudie Chadbourn for the honours in the Ladies section.

The twos were shared between Don Scott, John Weldon, Trudie Chadbourn, Karl Holm, Al Rolnik, Nikolai Larsen and his brother Phillip Larsen. It was just as well that the day featured a large number; otherwise the payout would have had to be the other way round.

Before presenting the prizes Richard Livingston, the resident PGA Professional, welcomed Dion Hansen and also welcomed back John Weldon and the world famous Blues and Jazz guitarist Don Scott who has flown in, to take part in the now world famous Pattaya AM-AM, and to take a sabbatical for a couple of months.

Wednesday Feb. 2
Green Valley
Better Ball Stroke

1st Barry Winton & Ole Stamnes, net 68
2nd John Horwath & B.J. Smith, net 69
3rd Frank Hughes & Randy Haupt, net 70 - cb9 34
4th John Kendall & Kate Mason, net 70 - cb9 35

Well would you believe it? The days competition was a blind draw with one high and one low handicapper per team in a better ball Strokeplay format and Barry managed to get Ole Stamnes the top seed in the higher echelon, which together with his own recent form, virtually ensured a second win in the week for the Cheeky Chappie from the East End of London. Ole played his part to the full (so I heard), as they ran out easy winners by a stroke from New Boy John Horwath and old hand B.J. third place went to Frank and Randy, with Randy complaining of a severely strained back following an arduous round.

John Mason and Kate Kendall, those stars that you can still catch sight of on the TCM Channel just missed out of the prizes on countback. (Did I get those names right? Will the sub-editor please check for me?)

Barry Winton sank the only two of the day to sweep the pot. He had to admit in the bar afterwards that as well as carry him round for most of the day, Ole gave him the line from 3 feet, of outside left about 6 inches, which Barry duly played, miss hit across it, and got it from 9 inches outside right. That is real teamwork.

Prior to the presentations Richard welcomed new member John Horwath and welcomed back Frank Hughes, Harald Gruber and the Karaoke King himself, John Kendall who has promised to give us all a song before he leaves.

Friday Feb. 4
Eastern Star
Stableford
Division 1
1st Trevor Schirmer, 40 pts
2nd Frank Hughes, 38 pts
3rd Al Rolnik, 34 pts
Division 2
1st Mickey Moore, 43 pts
2nd Harald Gruber, 39 pts
3rd Fred Theobald, 35 pts
Ladies
1st Kate Mason, 32 pts
2nd Wendy Hollingsworth, 31 pts

Two outstanding performances were returned by the day’s winners in the gentlemen’s divisions. Firstly Trevor Schirmer at last returning to form after along lean period following his trip to Australia to help those rather less fortunate than himself, to take in the end of summer harvest and the result of that unselfish act was a slightly pulled ham bone that necessitated several days in bed with a good nurse. He is now happily recovered and ready to take on B.J. and the world again.

The second division was taken apart by a whirlwind, in the form of Mickey Moore who, having spent thousands of baht on lessons and range balls, at last achieved that which his mentor had promised those many, many months before, and took home the bacon. Both winners deserve even more credit as well as further reductions in handicaps, as the CSS of the day soared to 75 with the playing conditions almost impossible for the rest of the contenders.

Kate Mason again did just enough to take the Ladies Division albeit with a very modest score.

The twos were shared between Vance Millar, Peter Johansson, Harald Gruber and Trevor Schirmer who had two.

Before doing the honours Richard welcomed back Jack Spencer, the teaching professional from the USA, Chang Suh from Hawaii where he has been helping with the pineapple harvesting and Robert Webb from just climbing the North Face of The K2 mountain, or so he says. (Surely the number K2 at the Face A-Go-Go Bar in North Road. Ed.) He also bade a sad farewell to Wendy and Doug Hollingsworth, who are returning to the UK, to spring clean and turn the beds down in time for the Great British Summer at their beautiful hotel hidden in the depths of the Lake District. It might seem a little early to most readers but it can sometimes take them a couple of months to just find the place.


Mai Thai only 4-0 winner this week

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

Over 200 bowlers.

Brother D beat Jack & Tar 3-1 to hold on to 1st place by several points, Three Sisters took 3-1 from Shenanigans and moved into 2nd place.

Cafe Ole split with Domicil, House of golden Coin beat VFW 3- 1 on a very good series from Mio (657), Mai Thai took 4-0 from Cafe Kronborg as Samrak and Antero had 524 & 531 series, and Q Cars beat Friends 3-1.


PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar

Tuesday Feb. 1
Century Chonburi
Stableford

Early morning at Bert’s as all sit sleepily trying to shake off the night before, for me a couple of fine bacon sandwiches and a cup of coffee and Bob chases around trying to keep all in line. Usually a breeze off the sea, and a slow peel out of the bar into transport, and off to wonderland for the day.

367 Winners A Flight Wang Suh (left) and B Flight Bob Lawrence (right) with Bob Noble outside Bert’s.

There are worse ways to spend a morning, and on this day a drive up to Century Chonburi, which whilst it has probably the ‘ Least good” clubhouse of any course, has a fine course and excellent rates.

The course was, as are most courses, very dry, but still a pleasure to play. Most managed to get around the course and play fairly well.

They have a few new showers there now, so you do not have to have a cold one, but if you are in a hurry a cold one beckons. And the facilities are at best basic.

In the restaurant, most cooled down with a cold beer, and one of the good things is that they are well priced, in fact on this day we beat the flies and a good group formed before the return home.

Back at Bert’s the food was warming nicely, and the food before and after, is free, so a little warmth before having a good laugh with your friends and a few cold one’s is a good start to a long evening.

The days golf at present is well supported, so on this day we had two flights, and the winner of the A Flight was Wang Suh, and the B Flight, Bob Lawrence.

A good days golf over, most sat down to relive it and watch a fine Sunset.

Results:

Winners A Flight Wang Suh; B Flight Bob Lawrence

Near Pins: Bob Bender, James Susperces, Bob Lawrence, Michael Dige, Michael Anderson (2), Cees Bosman Elias Magnussen, Martin Bullen and Dave Millar

Long Putts: Bill Knight, Bob Noble, Nigel Cannon (2)


PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg

Monday Jan. 31
Crystal Bay Golf & Country Club
Stableford

Crystal Bay was host to a Stableford Competition in two Flights, A Flight 0 to 17, and B Flight 18 and above. The course on the day was in the same immaculate condition as it was when we last played it, 19 months ago.

Gary Wedl

Gary Wedl took the A Flight with 43 points, Ted Morris was second with 41 points, Steindor Eidisson was third with 39 points and we had a three way countback for fourth on 38 points, won by Bill Plath, with Per Krause and Jeff Wylie losing out.

So to the B Flight, where the scores were not quite as impressive. The winner was Elias Magnussen with 39 points, ahead of a countback for second, on 38 points, won by Harold Gruber with Alan Lord in third. In fourth was Laurence Harding with 36 points on countback ahead of Alan Sullivan and Bob Rasmussen.

Near Pins: A5 Robert Webb; A8 Stephen Lewis; B4 Robert Webb B6 and Steindor Eidisson

Long Putts: A9 Rob Brown and B9 Tony Scambler

Thursday Feb. 3
Royal Lakeside
Stableford

If you want to walk on air go to Royal Lakeside. At this time of the year when most courses are very, brown and hard, make the effort and the long drive down there, and walk on green, thick grass. It is one of the courses you see few carts.

Arthur Bailey

On the day we had a pretty full list, indeed the list was full the same day it went up, so it was a relaxed start to the day as all had been planning to go there for a week, and the drive down there was a pleasure, after driving to dry courses.

Booking in was as usual quick, and onto the first tee, to be met by a queue. Still pretty soon we were away and walking down the first fairway, it is always nice when you walk down a fairway, but it does not usually last. I was playing with 77 year old Arthur Bailey, ‘Steady Arthur’ does not usually go in the rough, and on this day he gave us all a lesson, hitting longer than he has for a while and chipping and putting well. He was in a class of his own.

Kevin Dunne

Later, back in the restaurant, I was helped by Rob Brown, who shot a very creditable 39 points. Rob came 8th in his Flight. Indeed if you did not shoot 40 points you had no chance, indeed Tony Scamber shot 41 points and was 5th.

In the A Flight, 0 to 20, the winner was Kevin Dunne with 43 points, ahead of Leif Kirkegaard in second with 42 points. We then had a three-way countback on 41 points. In third was Ted Morris, in fourth was Gary Wedl and losing out was Tony Scamber.

In the B Flight, 21 upward, the winner with the best score of the day was Arthur Bailey with 44 points. In second was Nigel Perry with 41 points. We had a countback on 40 points for third, with Dave Cadwalladar in third and James Flanagan in fourth. T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: #3 & #12 Alan Sullivan; #6 Gary Wedl; #15 Bill Plath

Long Putts: #9 Leif Kirkegaard; #18 Dave Richardson


PH3 - Run #1091

The hares of the day, Flying Frog and Sunflower, chose a nice “A” site, 40 minutes from Pattaya, to have the weekly run and booze-up.

The trail led into some weedy areas, through farms, but mostly along motorbike paths with nice scenery. With only three checks and no false trails to speak of, the front runners came back to the “A” site in less than 30 minutes. A short flat run, no lost kids, no injuries, and lots of heat to sweat off last nights over indulgence. Good Run!

Sunflower did her raffle circle with a cigar stuck inside her cleavage. What idiot didn’t want to win that cigar and pull it out of her shirt with his teeth? Eventually Odd Job ended up with the cigar, which his honey won through deviate means.

Bad RA, Sir Airhead, called his circle and makes sure P*ss-Up Hill and Peler are properly iced for being Norwegian twins. Did Peler really sleep outside all night last week outside his house door after losing his keys? Well, the ice don’t lie! Frank & beans, Doctor D*ck, on ice while Arseholeo gets double hash shit for being born. Rubber D*ck on ice as his bimbo gets her hash name Sunrise, followed by Ratso-eel-sniffer for finally divorcing his farang wife in the US.

Now he has a new Thai tilak who owns a pick-up truck. We could all learn a thing or two from that story... Nice switcheroo. Sir Chicken f’r puts Bird f’r (no relation) in the circle but not on ice for having a leaky bum. Spag Head uses his surrogate and warms up the ice in his stead. Steamy lump was iced for having sex while on fire watch duty in the US. Glad my tax dollars are well spent! Good RA Steamy Lump, as an experiment, and asks for volunteers to sit on the ice, and before long, 8 hashers have a wet and cold bums. Two Belgians on ice threaten to write an article to their local rag about our Pattaya Hash. Just remember that Flying Frog is spelled with two capitals. Poncho calls the circle with a Good, Bad, and Ugly theme making sure our cracks (the Good) are properly seated on the knees of many an ugly hasher but Sir Airhead (the Bad) enjoys his ice a little bit too much and doesn’t want to let his bimbos off his knee. Bad RA.

Last things I remember about this hash are: Retard W*nker gets the bucket for hanging out in Boys Town a little bit too long. We learn that ET is the real father of Retard W*nker’s kid.

Flying Frog was last seen with a twig sticking out of his rear and; Sir Chicken F’r tries to sing a song about the brain dead but decides it’s just not worth the effort. Some other things happened in the circle as well but by this time of night nobody took any notice and some serious drinking was had by many.

On, On
Jello Butt


The Square Ring

Howie Reed

OK here’s what happened. Last weeks column got “lost” in cyber space. True fact! It was one of the great columns of all time. I know both regular readers can now say, “Can you believe I read that guy every week for three years, he finally writes a good column and I miss it?” Here’s some stuff you missed. Floyd Mayweather jr (33-0). Got another win over a fighter that had no business being in the same ring. He out boxed, out quickened and out did everything a game Henry Bruseles for a stoppage at 2:55 of round 8. During the telecast the “Babbling Boys” (Jim Lampley, Larry Merchant and Roy Jones) just couldn’t figure out what it was that Floyd Mayweather jr. didn’t have. He was undefeated, had boxing skill like no other, his power was OK so what’s the problem? The fight with Bruseles drew 4,000 to the 22,000 seat American Airlines Arena in Miami Florida USA. That dear friends and boxing fans around the world is the problem. Got to put butts in the seats. No one will pay to watch Mayweather. Boxing fans know when a fighter “mails it in”. Hell Mayweather jr. uses someone’s stamp. That’s all going to change say’s Floyd. “I’ll fight 4 times this year. Next is against Arturo Gatti in June, then Kostya Tzysu and then either Shane Mosley or Oscar DeLaHoya.” Friend the next time you see pigs flying through the air with the greatest of ease like the man on the flying trapeze, that’s when Mayweather will fight Tzysu, Mosley or DeLaHoya. Gatti?

In regard to Gatti that may be true. Thunder Gatti KO’s Jesse James Leija in 5 stanza’s before a packed house “On the Boardwalk At Atlantic City.” The KO was really a one punch straight right. The fight should have been stopped, then as Leija was gone. Referee Earl Brown acting like a rookie let it go on after spending about 20 seconds talking to Leija. There could be trouble for the proposed “pay-per-view”. Mayweather’s theory is hit and don’t get hit. The “new” Gatti boxed for most of the fight, which had the 14,000 plus fans that paid to see him uneasy. “They didn’t come to watch Gatti dance,” drawled Larry Merchant. For once he was right. Gatti fans go to watch him cause they know it’s going to be a war. The only guys that like a “dancing boxing” match go to an ice hockey game for the skating.

“WBC interim super middleweight champion Danny Green is in full training for his rematch with WBC champ Marcus Beyer.”

Well I would hope so as the fight is scheduled for March 12 in the Land of Beer, Sauerkraut and Lasses with Bodacious Ta Ta’s. Speaking of their first fight Green said, “I was angry at first, because I was ahead on the cards with the three judges. This rematch is a bit of unfinished business with Beyer. I’m older and smarter and I won’t be drawn into a similar situation this time.” Trainer Jeff Fenech added, “The purse from the Beyer re-match will be 15 times better than he’s previously earned from a fight. Good enough for him to buy a street of houses back in Perth.” But wait a minute didn’t I read about a dustup with the purse? Add to toss that in for Steve. Must have been one of those days.

Let’s jump shift to the WBA and the heavyweight division. John “The Quite Man” Ruiz (41-5) has been notified that James “Lights Out” Toney (68-4-2, 43 KOs) is his mandatory contender. This is a fight that almost no one wants or cares about except Tony or Ruiz and of course Don King. It’s all part of the Don King grand strategy to control the heavyweight division. It works like this; March 31, David Tua fights Talmadge Griffis in Auckland, April 16 Lemon Brewster and Any “The Foul Pole” Golota fight for the WBO title and then on May 7th Vilali Klitschko (35-2) and Hasim Rahman (40-5) square off for the WBC crown. Only one left out is Chris Byrd (38-2) the IBF champ. His number on contender is Hasim Rahman so that’s out. That leaves IBF #2 Lance Whitaker (28-2).

Lance is an OK guy but not any great shakes as a fighter. He use to go by the name “Mount Whitaker” as he’s 6’8" plus but that didn’t seem to work. Then he changed his name to “Goofi” got KO’d and went back to Lance. There you have it boys and girls. The world heavyweight picture as ugly as it may be.

Well not the entire heavyweight picture. There is always the “Imperial One.” I’m not a big fan of Lennox Lewis. I don’t like him cause he talks rubbish. Pure and utter rubbish! I was never a fan of Lewis as he always though he was more than he is, was or will ever be. You may remember that there was a item in these hallow pages a couple of weeks ago about Lewis contemplating a comeback. At the time it was mentioned that the “Imperial One” was having some financial difficulty due to some bad investments and legal cases. (Remember before the second Rahman fight when Lewis said to Rahman, “I’ll sue” and Rahman responded by saying “That’s a gay thing to say”) I made up the bad investments as it’s usually the case. Well London’s Sunday Mirror is out with the story of his comeback. “I’ve had to listen to a lot of rubbish from Klitschko and he is starting to get on my nerves. I’m making a comeback later this year. The money is up to 21 million pounds (US$39.3 million) right now and I simply can’t turn that much cash down. I’m going to start training seriously and I’m going back to England to start sorting this out,” said Lewis, who lives in Jamaica’s Montego Bay. “I need the money just like everyone else and it’s just too good to turn down.” Horse doodle! No one is going to pay Lewis 40 million US for a single fight. He’s tired of listening to Klitschko’s rubbish? Then a day later the Imperial Wanker released the following statement, “I want to reiterate what I said when I retired in February 2004, that I was fortunate to leave the sport on my own terms and that I will be one of the few heavyweight champions in history to retire on top and stay retired.” Lennox... stay away. We don’t miss you. Drink to that? In a heartbeat!


Serenity Shipyard at Ocean Marina goes into high gear

by Peter Cummins

The marine industry, the marine leisure sector and marine tourism are ‘riding the crest of a wave’, nautically speaking. Earlier this year, When the Royal Thai Government abolished the punitive tax of some 250 per cent, which was crippling the boating infrastructure, the giant awoke and the total industry has gone “on a bender”.

Boats of all shapes, sizes, styles and are being imported and built boatyards are proliferating to produce craft in Thailand, marinas are opening up and down the Gulf, as far south as Phuket, regattas are already filling the 2005 calendar and the second Phuket International Marine Exhibition (PIMEX) is poised to set all records for Thailand’s own “boat Show.”

The prototype Serenity Catamaran: almost too big to photograph.

To single out just two people among the army moving in to service this bonanza are two French nationals, Jean Obry and Mikael Pophillat who are managing director and production manager respectively, of the company, Serenity Shipyard, established in June, 2001 and now ensconced in an enormous hangar-like facility at Ocean Marina, Jomtien.

View from the bridge.

Although their backgrounds are far apart, their compatibility, dedication to and love of the job in hand - aimed at boat building, sailing and cruising are very evident. Jean is a native of Alsace - quite removed from the maritime frontier, whereas Mikael is a ‘son of the sea’ from his beloved Bretagne coast.

In 2001, the partners received a BOI promotion, to build composite boats from 60-ft upwards. They considered day charter, no-frills catamarans such as those which ply the Caribbean and the better-appointed Charter yachts.

Although intended to be a sailing catamaran, the first prototype nearing completion, the “Serenity 71”, will be a motor version only, which the company will use as a sample. Designed by French architect Martain, the Serenity 71 “is such a good design and so well constructed”, said Jean in an interview recently, “that there will be no changes needed from the original - except some fittings (chain-plates etc.) - to accommodate a monstrous 27-metre mast, the sails and a lot of other equipment a sailing boat needs.

Some of the splendidly-finished teak wood-work.

Expecting to launch this first one shortly, Jean and Mikael anticipate producing some 5 - 6 per year, depending on the demand and, although Serenity is under the BOI concessions, Jean pointed out that, apart from the resins obtained in Thailand and kept in strictly-controlled climate conditions, almost everything to equip such a huge craft, must be imported from overseas.

The Serenity is based, to a certain extent, on the design of Caribbean Day Charter catamarans, which do just that: accommodating upwards of 40 people on day cruises. The major difference here being that Thai boats are being built for ultimate cruising comfort: four double cabins completely fitted out with two more sets of double cabins, varying in types of creature comforts. But, they can also be used for Caribbean-style day charters.

The huge platform areas (some 10 m - 34 ft is aimed at maximum comfort for 16 persons on charter and up to 60 passengers on a day charter basis. The craft is 21.30m (71 ft) in length and some 10.30m wide and, being shallow draught like most multi-hulls, draws only 1.35m (4.5 feet, shallow enough to nudge up to many coves and beaches in Thailand and elsewhere.

Two 160-hp Yanmar diesels will drive the huge craft along at 15-knots plus and, with approx. 170 sq m. sq metres (1,883 sq ft.) of sail, she will sail very well indeed, said Jean. “And, of course, even with air conditioning throughout and all modern facilities, we are looking at around 800,000 baht up to a million - at least 10-15 per cent below western prices.”

It is an overwhelming complex where Serenity is established, with the various components being fashioned individually at various parts of the compound, with strict computer control to keep a production line moving. In fact, Jean noted, “the 34 staff are able to maintain the harmonious flow of building and we have already started the second craft - a sailer, this time - right alongside.

The company is looking at both the local market and overseas for the future models which will come off the Serenity assembly line.

“Why Thailand? “I asked Jean. “There is a good, skilled labour force here, for one,” he answered; “production costs are considerably less than in Europe, in spite of having to import most equipment; the sailing conditions are unsurpassable”.

It can all be summed up by the two men’s attitude: “The complex here is a modern marina, with full facilities and beautiful hotel. Supplies and workmanship are efficient and reliable”.

In fact, “it is the perfect place to build your future yacht”, Jean added.

“Needless to say, we also are happy here in Thailand” Jean and Mikael answered in unison. I think I know what they mean!

Enquiries about or further information on the Serenity Boatyards can be directed to Jean’s email: jean.obry@ wanadoo.fr

There is also a most interesting website: www.serenity shipyard.com which presents a pictorial account of the building of the plugs and molds right up to the present state of the craft.

Or, if you are down Jomtien way, visit them at: Building 167/3 Moo 4, Sukhumvit Highway, Km. 157, Na-Jomtien, Sattahip, Chonburi, 20250. Tel. +66 (0) 3823 7214; fax. +66 (0) 3823 7215