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Italiano Alberto Cassio:
The Koh Larn Supremo
Peter Cummins; photos by Christoph Hoppen
It was most appropriate that one of the sponsors, Alberto
Cassio of Photo Bank fame, and his fleet-footed runner, Richard proved the
fatal combination of skipper and runner, winning, by a big margin, the 15th
Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa Koh Larn Classic.
 Alberto
(left) and Richard (center), 15th Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa Koh Larn
Classic winners being congratulated for their outstanding perfomce by Sathit
Mansuwan, Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa resident manager.
Held at and off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club last
Saturday, the annual event consisted of two yacht racing legs and one
running leg (actually all the runners used both legs for the race over Koh
Larn). Each year, at this time, the Bangkok Hash House Harriers and
Harriettes descend on (storm, would be a more appropriate term) Royal Varuna
and pair up with a sailor.
The first sailing leg, Varuna to Koh Larn was fiercely
contested, with Gary Baguley/Josh racing the Hobie Tiger 18, beating the
Cassio team on a Nacra 5.8, by a mere 15 seconds. Richard then went into
over-drive, bolting over Koh Larn in 44 minutes, five ahead of F. Todd, with
veteran racer John Quarmby third runner, another five minutes behind.
Richard, as the fastest runner was also winner of the Karl Schmid Memorial
Trophy
Then for the very fast reach back to Royal Varuna, it was
Luis S./May (Hobie 16), leading by just half a minute, Mattheus Pranich
(Hobie 16), Antony Chapman (Nacra 17 S) and Stefan (Hobie Tiger).
Alberto had to settle for 12th place across the line but,
with his outward second place and the fastest runner, there was no doubt who
were the 2005 champions.
Second overall were Jouke Postma/F.Todd (Nacra 17 S),
followed by Bob Garner/Gonthier (Taipan), Mattheus Pranich/Astrid, (Hobie
16), Ben Chandler/John Quarmby (Hobie 16) and Holger Michael/J. Foster
(Hobie 16), third to sixth, respectively.
 It
was certainly a good mix of classes which race regularly at Royal Varuna and
with David Wales, Gilbert Leemann and their supporting marshals keeping a
tight control over the event, it sailed off in perfect conditions, with a
15-knot south-westerly, peaking to 18.
Sponsored for the past 14 years by the Pattaya Marriott
Resort and Spa, this year’s sail-run carnival was well up to all
expectations, with the usual great victuals provided by the Resort.
Supporting sponsors such as Schenker Stinnes Logistics,
Technilink, Photo Bank and Heineken, ensured that the evening’s party and
entertainment were also up to the standards expected when the HHH and Royal
Varuna meet.
When entrepreneur John Stall designed the Koh Larn
Classic in 1991, it became the third such. It joined the exulted company of
the Four Peaks Race, a 36-hour endurance test of sailing 76 nautical miles,
20 miles of overland running and scaling four peaks, first organized by Hong
Kong’s Aberdeen Boat Club, in 1985.
The other is the Australian Three Peaks Race, a most
gruelling test of man and machine around the island state of Tasmania, which
for the slower yachts - and runners - can be a four-day marathon.
Initiated in 1988, one run alone in the 1998 event, took
an incredible 18 hours, when a team was lost in the fog and rain of one of
Tasmania’s formidable mountain ranges.
Fortunately, the Koh Larn Classic is much more
“user-friendly” than either of these, as the participants from previous
events witnessed again last Saturday.
Fahprakorb retains IBF Pan Pacific title
9th round KO
Ariyawat
Nuamsawat
Thai boxer Fahprakorb Rakkiatgym (Kratingdaenggym)
KO’d the Philippines’ Bobby Pacquiao in the ninth round in last Friday
afternoon to retain his IBF Pan Pacific Featherweight title.
 Fahprakorb
Rakkiatgym, aka Kratingdaenggym (left), let a flurry of punches fly
against Bobby Pacquiao in the early rounds of the IBF Pan Pacific
Featherweight title fight held in Pattaya last Friday. (Photo Pattaya
Mail/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)
Hundreds of fight fans gathered at South Pattaya’s
Bali Hai pier to watch the fiery bout between the two featherweight (126
lb) boxers. The pier had been transformed into a temporary stadium.
The two pugilists traded blows early on, and seemed
fairly evenly matched. The local champ took the early advantage in the
first two rounds, but couldn’t manage a quick knockout. Pacquiao
withstood the barrage and even mounted a comeback in the third round. The
fight stayed fairly even until the ninth when the taller Thai champ dealt
a double blow, sending Bobby Pacquiao to the canvas until the count of 10.
 The
referee counts out Philippines’ Bobby Pacquiao, who was knocked to the
canvas in the ninth round in Pattaya against Fahprakorb Rakkiatgym, at
Bali Hai last Friday. (Photo Pattaya Mail/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)
The referee declared the home fighter featherweight
champ once again, much to the jubilation of the spectators, who included
local dignitaries such as Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn and Pisit
Ketphasook, Chonburi governor.
Fahprakorb has successfully defended his title a number
of times, but his history is chequered in clashes with the Pacquiao
family. In 2002, Fahprakorb lost the bantamweight title when he was
knocked out by Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao.
Thai boxers cleaned up in other fights during the
afternoon, as bantamweight Theerapong Distar won on points against Ricardo
Sahara from the Philippines - as did Farsai Sakdirin against Edwin
Diwaller, also of the Philippines.
Funds raised from the matches were to be donated to
tsunami relief charities.
This Lynch mob hung up on caring for kids
10th Classroom Charity Golf Classic Raises 120k
The table was set for a great day at St. Andrews 2000 for
the 10th Classroom Charity Golf Classic as owner Pete Stonebridge
“bought” the Desmond Muirhead design for the afternoon of Wednesday, the
February 16. His decision to sponsor the shotgun start provided, as it did
last year at Green Valley, a relaxed atmosphere on the spacious layout.
Pete’s planning was complimented by his capable management staff of Scott
Foley, who transported the tournament equipment and marshaled the 19th hole
competition, John Foley, who used his ample computer and graphic skills to
produce eye-catching posters and individual, personalized scorecards, and
Willie McCallum, who had the enviable task of driving the “school bus”
full of beautiful “students”. Those “students” did a marvelous job
of braving the heat (and the wolf whistles) and providing a stunning
embellishment to the team photos. And, of course, the buffet, trophy
presentation and the Lucky Draw prize-giving were complimented by the
helpful staff back at the Classroom.
 Classroom
Owner, Pete Stonebridge (center) presents a check for 120,000 baht to Lewis
“Woody” Underwood (right) and Graham MacDonald (left) for this year’s
Jester’s Care for Kids Cahirty Drive.
Not withstanding the excellent presentation of the
tournament the heroes of the day were the players. One hundred and
forty-eight strong, the competitors were a joy from registration through
trophy presentation. A Shotgun Start takes a couple of holes to sort itself
out and St. Andrews has a couple of bottleneck holes, the par three 3rd and
10th come to mind, but every player exhibited great patience and
cooperation. But the field didn’t stop there; they went on to show great
support for the designated charity, The Jester’s Care for Kids.
 Doug
Lynch (right) receives his Champion Plate from Classroom manager Scott
Foley.
St. Andrews 2000 has the unique feature of having an
extra hole, an island par 3, in the middle course, which was set up as
separate contest. A player received the beverage of his/her choice and a
shot at the imposing green. If he/she hit the green the entry fee was
returned and if the ball settled into the ring the reward was 500 baht. Low
handicappers Andy Leach and Phil Mitchell hit the ring, as did 26
handicapper Kenny Ince. Many of the players went the extra mile and donated
their winnings as well. The generosity of all provided nearly 20 thousand
baht to the total contribution on the day.
The presentation was kicked off by Peter asking Care For
Kids representatives Lewis “Woody” Underwood and Graham McDonald to the
stage for presentation of the day’s charitable contribution. With 40
thousand baht raised from the entry fees, 20 thousand baht raised on the
19th hole competition and with the a matching 60 thousand baht that Peter
added from his own pocket, it was, with the collective pride of all
involved, that a check for 120 thousand baht was presented.
 Nora
Haugsjordet recives her Ladies Championship Plate from Scott Foley.
“So who” you might ask “won the tournament?”
There were no gasps from the crowd when the Ladies’ Champion was
announced as accomplished local golfer Nora Haugsjordet garnered 40
points off her 10 handicap, that computes to a 79 off the stick, easily
outdistancing 1st Runner-Up, Tarja Kankainen. The Men’s Championship
was more hotly contested as a scorecard review evidenced a math error,
which set up a count back between Doug Lynch and Ivan Molineux. They both
had 20 points on the inward nine, but Doug had the better of the last six
holes, edging Ivan 14 points to 13 points. At least Ivan had the solace
of receiving the top spot in B Flight. It should be noted that Doug’s
winning 41 points was off a 6 handicap, which means he shot one over,
gross 74, off the stick! The performance of the two flights was quite
even as both first runner-ups, Richard Garland in A and Alan Hughes in B,
had 40 points. Stephen Rushton’s 39 points was good for the second
bridesmaid in A, while the Sugar Shack’s Mike Seely found his 38 points
adequate in B.
The
winning team with 141 points points for the day (l-r) Richard Garland, John
Kendall, Tom Gingerich and Jimmy Little.
There was a team prize on the day with the winner
determined by the cumulative performance of all four golfers in the
group. Richard Garland (40) was re-summoned to the stage, along with his
Haven mates, Tom Gingerich (36), John Kendall (30) and Jimmy Little (35)
to receive the prizes for the Team Award. Their 141 points was one better
than the fourball of Brian Grant (26), Ivan Molineux (41), and the
brothers Rushton, Stephen (39) and Wayne (34).
The tournament organizers, and I am sure it is echoed
by the players, wish to thank the generosity of the following sponsors
who provided prizes that enhanced the technical prizes and lucky draw:
Andy James at Misty’s, Kevin Mitch at the Blue Parrot, PSC President
Gerry Carpenter and General Manager Simon Dutton at Shenanigan’s, Woody
Underwood and the Jesters, Dale Drader and the Jackalope Committee. Also
thanks to St. Andrews 2000 general manager Khun Niran, his capable
assistants on the day, Khun Noy and Khun Tippawan, and the fine staff at
the course and clubhouse.
Results:
Men’s Champion: Doug Lynch (41); A Flight: Winner: Doug Lynch (41);
1st Runner-up: Richard Garland (40); 2nd Runner-up: Stephen Rushton (39);
B Flight: Winner: Ivan Molineux (41); 1st Runner-up: Alan Hughes (40);
2nd Runner-up: Mike Seely (38); Ladies’ Champion: Nora Haugsjordet
(40); 1st Runner-up: Tarja Kankainan (28); Technical Prizes: Near Pins:
#3 Wayne Rushton; #5 Eddie Kemler; #10 Dixie Larose; #17 Eric Ahlswede.
Long Drive: Men’s A Flight: Bob Phillp; Men’s B Flight: Brian Grant;
Ladies: Nora Haugsjordet. Long Putt: Ivan Plunkett. Nearest the Keg:
Stuart Hibberd.
Paintball Park opens at Horseshoe Point
X-treme sports now part of activities based resort
Suchada Tupchai
Extreme gamers now have a new opportunity to indulge
in senseless shooting fun at the Horseshoe Point Country Club and Resort.
A new paintball and BB park opened on the property last Sunday morning
with hardcore players turning up to take part in the specials on offer.
 Jate
Sophitphongtorn, Horseshoe Point general manager tests his accuracy.
Jate Sophitphongtorn, Horseshoe Point general manager
opened the new facility to paintballers, “The sport has been in
Thailand for some time but due to the expense of importing equipment it
was available to very few. That has now changed with manufacturing now
taking place in Thailand and thereby reducing the running costs,” said
Jate.
 Team
competition in full swing as both sides try to capture the opposing
force’s flag.
He added that the new park is part of the concept for
the Horseshoe Point of furthering its concept as an activity based resort
offering a wide array of sports.
Following the opening, teams took to the field in a
flag competition. The new park offers a variety of layouts for
enthusiasts to try their hand at the sport in which many turned out for
the opening specials.
Those interested in Paintball & BB park may contact the resort on
038 735 050 or visit www.horseshoepoint.com for details.
PSC 47th Members Monthly golf tournament
Friday February 18
Pattaya Country Club.
This week has seen a warming up on the golf courses.
People who walk week in and week out, have been struggling in the heat,
so one of the most important things about a golf course is a fairly flat
course, good cool showers after and the ability to sit and enjoy a cold
beer. This is why many came here, and Pattaya Country Club knows how to
deliver. Even if on the day they did run out of warm water at the end.
Men’s
Flight winners, Jeff Wylie, A Flight; Dennis Edmunds, B Flight; Ian
Colville, C Flight and Willy Celis, D Flight.
Pattaya is an old favorite of the organizers, friendly
helpful staff and a course that fits like an old shoe. Not the most
spectacular course on the circuit, in fact a little bland, it usually more
than makes up for it with fairways that have nice grass on them and greens
that are hard, fast and true. It is a fair test of golf without being a
killer.
Eric
Grobert Low Gross winner, Tom Breslin, High Points and Jannie Jasperre
Ladies winner.
On this day booking in was as usual, efficient and
smooth, and then out onto the course. As promised the course was, to most,
challenging without being a killer. However as usual some played
exceptionally well, more later.
Waiting
for the przegiving to commence after a day out on the course.
Round over, and a hot shower, for most, the golfers
gathered in the clubhouse, to be entertained by the golf chairman, the
Emcee for the day, who told the tale and read the results, Emcee Alan
taking a day off.
In the A Flight, 0 to 13, a Strokeplay competition saw
Jeff Wylie shoot a fine gross 73, and thus net 63, to win the Flight by
six shots. In second place and coming back to some fine form, Rob Brown
shot a net 69 one ahead of Suh Chang in third with a net 70.
In the B Flight, 14 to 18, we had some good close golf
with the places decided on single shot difference. Winner was Dennis
Edmunds with a net 70 ahead of Ebrahim in second with a net 71 and Jim
Harris in third with a net 72.
C Flight was the start of the Stableford Flights, at
19 to 24. One of the interesting facts was that in B, C, and D Flights
the winners, second and third, was separated by one point, and in none of
the Flights was there a countback. The winner of the Flight was Ian
Colville with 40 points ahead of Maurice Bowman in second with 39 points
and Leif Kirkegaarde with 38 points.
The D Flight, 25 up, was won by Willy Celis with 39
points, ahead of Nigel Cannon in second with 38 points and Patrick Browne
in third with 37 points.
In the Ladies Flight, Jannie Japerre finished a
winning week for the Jasperre Family, when she strode in with a fine 40
points. In second place was Toy Theobald with 34 points on the only
countback of the day ,and in third was Nora Hausjordet .
The two big prizes, and the Low Gross was won by Eric
Gobert with a Gross 71, a fine round, and High points was won by Tom
Breslin with 40 points.
Once again we would like to thank all the sponsors and
also all the people who gave of their time to put the day on. T.T.F.N.
Winners:
Low Gross: Eric Grobert; High Points:Tom Breslin
A Flight: 1st Jeff Wylie; 2nd Rob Brown; 3rd Suh Chang
B Flight: 1st Dennis Edmunds; 2nd Ebrahim; 3rd Jim Harris
C Flight: 1st Ian Colville; 2nd Maurice Bowman; 3rd Leif Kirkegaarde
D Flight: 1st Willy Celis; 2nd Nigel Cannon; 3rd Patrick Browne
L Flight: 1st Jannie Jasperre; 2nd Toy Theobald; 3rd Nora Hausjordet
Technical Winners
Long Drive 8: Doug Lynch (A); Paul Smet (B); J.P.
Michaels (C); Van Den Bogerd (D); Moon Schwulera (L).
Long Putts 9: Doug Lynch, Patrick Browne
Long Putts#18, Bill Markwell, Graham Hiskett
Near Pins #5:Kari Lankkanen; Bob Rasmussen; Mam Trayling
Near Pins #7: Eric Gobert; Leif Kirkegaarde; Usa Chaiyosit
Near Pins #12: Ake Ovegren; Brian Maddox; Toy Theobald
Near Pins 16: Jack Cunningham; Harvey Samuel; Usa Chaiyosit
Three Sisters moves into second place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
The lanes at PS bowl above TOPS were tough to bowl and
not many good scores were turned in on this Friday. La Montgomery had the
best series of the day as she led her Three Sisters team to a four point
sweep of Mai’s Thai Restaurant and Three Sisters moved back into second
place. Caf? Kronborg grabbed four points from Q Cars and are secure in
third. First place Brother D won 2.5 points from Shenanigans. Caf? Ole sent
Friends down to fifth place as they took three points in their match. VFW
Post 9876 beat Domicil three points to one and Jack & Tar won three
from House of the Golden Coin.  200
bowlers - Mai and Konrad.
Best bowlers of the day were:
La, Three Sisters: 551 series
Tue, Shenanigans: 545 series
Konrad, Brother D: 202 game, 528 series
Mai, Jack & Tar: 206 game, 504 series
Ooy, House of the Golden Coin: 516 series
Sven, Cafe Kronborg: 533 series
Kran, Cafe Kronborg: 527 series
Mashi Kaneta stitches two wins together
IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Monday Feb. 14
Phoenix Ocean/Mountain
Stableford
Division 1
1st Robert Webb, 41pts - c/b 21
2nd Barry Winton, 41 pts - c/b 20
3rd Roy Thornton, 37 pts
4th Claus Neilsen, 36pts
Division 2
1st Robert Finley, 38 pts
2nd Kjell Christiansen, 34 pts -c/b 16
3rd Peter Johansson, 34 pts - c/b 14
4th Roar Berger, 33 pts
Once again, Phoenix offered fairly benign conditions and
again scores were good, local member, Barry Winton was desperatley unlucky
to finish runner-up in division 1. This time on countback after shooting a
magnificent 71 gross, but take nothing away from Robert Webb, shooting a
superb 41 points off his 13 handicap.
In division 2, Bob Finley, recently arrived from Costa
Rica, surprised himself when easily winning by four clear points. Continuing
her fine form, Trudie Chadbourn scored 36 points to beat off the rest of the
ladies and so started the week where she left off. In the 2s competition,
there were six golfers sharing the pool, Brian Kelly, Robert Finley, Al
Rolnik, Dean Peterson, Jens Neilsen and Claus Nielsen.
Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA professional, welcomed Mike Sanders, Glen Reaume, James Bryan,
Kenton Brown and Robert Finley and welcomed back Dean Peterson, Richard
Wardell and Eric Ahlswede
Wednesday Febm 16
Siam Country Club
Medal
Division 1
1st Mashi Kaneta, net 71
2nd Karl Holm, net 72 - c/b 33
3rd Chang Suh, net 72 - c/b 37
4th Bob Duxbury, net 74
Division 2
1st Paul Taylor, net 66
2nd Ray Handford, net 68
3rd Barry Chadbourn, net 72
4th BJ Smith, net 74
Another huge turnout for the short trip to Siam and
somewhat of a disappointment with the course condition, whilst the greens
were good, the fairways, starved of water, resemble a mixture of brown and
green cement thrown around and left to bake in the sun. Yet amazingly,
scores were generally good and Paul Taylor enjoyed the day of his life,
shooting a fabulous 84 gross, bettering his previous best personal
performance by four shots to take division 2 honours. Scores in division 1
were much tighter but like Paul, Mashi enjoyed the day of his life with his
first win out of The Haven.
In the ladies, Trudie Chadbourn again dominated to win
with an 80 gross with Toy Theobold chasing her all the way. The infamous
Siam greens were giving little away and just two 2s were recorded, so it was
Karl Holm and Roger Yabsley who shared the pool and left the Haven with
smiling faces!
Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston welcomed
Marcus Kamfjord and welcomed back Roger Yabsley, K C Johnson, Brian and
Linda Lee, Ray Handford and Roger Koehler before bidding a sad farewell to
Bob and Pat Duxbury for another year and the man himself, Major Roy on a
brief visit to the siberian north of England.
Friday Feb. 18
Century Ban Chang
Stableford
Division 1
1st Mashi Kaneta, 39 pts - c/b 20
2nd John Weldon 39 pts - c/b 17
3rd Norman Isherwood, 36 pts
Division 2
1st Tony Quaid, 37 pts
2nd Kjell Christiansen, 34 pts
3rd Trudie Chadbourn, 33 pts
A welcome return to Ban Chang and the tough Nick Faldo
links design, which was in pretty good condition considering the long period
of drought, obviously the management are not as stingy with water as Siam
Country Club. Irishman, Tony Quaid, with his hurling swing dominated
division 2 to win comfortably from Kjell and Trudie.
Poor Trudie, she may have well enjoyed a second clean
sweep of the ladies had any ladies turned out! Perhaps she has destroyed the
opposition after all!
In division 1, it was the old master tailor, Mashi who
narrowly claimed his second win of the week on countback over John, with
stormin’ Norman charging through with a terrific 21 points on the back 9
to see off Karl Holm on countback and secure yet another podium position.
Interestingly, both runner-ups, John and Tony had just come off a lesson
with Richard Livingston, so perhaps another one and they will soon be taking
the honours! Despite the tough par 3s at Century there were no shortage of
2s and the pool was shared by Barry Traynor, Paul Taylor, Don Scott, Mashi
Kaneta (2) and Phillip Larsen (3). What a day for Phillip, playing off 3
handicap, two birdie’s and an eagle for his three two’s.
As the golfers found their weary way into the clubhouse
after a hot day on the links, they were greeted by the jovial odd couple,
Dave and Fred who had just witnessed a Thai 9-ball winding thier way around
the course, 9 golfers, 9 caddies and 9 buggies and we thought a 9-ball was a
pool game!
Chris Sanders Gets a Medal for an Early Valentine’s
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s
Sunday Feb. 13
Green Valley
Monthly Medal
Competition
1st A Flight: Phil Mitchell, net 70
2nd A Flight: Steve Mascari, net 71
3rd A Flight: Johnny McHugh, net 71
1st B Flight: Chris Sanders, net 68 - Monthly Medal Winner
2nd B Flight: Joe Mooneyham, net 72
3rd B Flight: Jim Munns, net 73
1st C Flight: Brian Kieran, net 70
2nd C Flight: Paul Shaw, net 71
3rd C Flight: Sean Murphy, net 73
1st D Flight: Linda Lee, net 74
2nd D Flight: Rich Wibrow, net 74
3rd D Flight: Jeff Wibrow, net 77
Near Pins: #8 Jim Wickstrom; #13 Phil Mitchell; #16 Gareth Gill
Chris Sanders had shown that he was riding a “purple
patch” last week and that play continued of Monthly Medal Sunday as his net 68
left him two clear of the field. Chris offset his bell ringing tab with the
proceeds from his B Flight victory, a Flight that saw Joe “I’m in the”
Mooneyham and Capt. Fogg in second and third. The good Capt. needed a count back
over Claus Birk Thomsen to hold his spot. The premier Flight was led by
“Flipper” Mitchell’s gross 76, net 70. The President’s gross 76 - net 71
was better distributed than Johnny McHugh’s gross 79, net 71.
Paul Shaw’s net 71 was bracketed in C Flight by Ireland’s
Brian Kienan and his net 70 and the net 73 of Sean Murphy. Linda Lee accepted
the chivalry of A Flight with her count back victory over new guest Richard
Wibrow. Richard was followed across the line by his father, Jeff.
Monday Feb. 14
Burapha - A & B
Blue or White Tees
Stableford
1st Blue A Flight: Guy Billings, 39 pts
2nd Blue A Flight: Graham Johnson, 38 pts
3rd Blue A Flight: Jim Dundon, 37 pts
1st Blue B Flight: Bob Richardson, 38 pts
2nd Blue B Flight: Rocky Qin, 35 pts
3rd Blue B Flight: Barry Rothberg, 35 pts
1st White Flight: Pete Murray, 40 pts
2nd White Flight: Peter Ingham, 39 pts
3rd White Flight: Poo Supaporn, 39 pts
Near Pins: #A3 Brian Grant; #B8 Bruce McAdam
Guy Billings was once again a pleasant addition to the
Society’s players roster and this fine trademark play was in evidence, as
always. His 39 points in the A Flight of the Blue Division left Society regular
Graham “Flash” Johnson in second. Jim Dundon, part of the Society’s
burgeoning maritime wing, edged our title boy on count back.
Speaking of Society wings, none is more prominent than the
Irish, and one of its lads, Bob Richardson showed the fellow lads a bit of style
of the ol’ sod with his 38 points in the B Flight of the longer course
Division, three clear of count back locked Rocky Qin and Barry Rothberg.
Pete Murray did his shake, rattle and roll for 40 points and
first place in the White Flight. That left second and third to a count back
between Peter Ingham and Poo Supaporn. Treachery and guile overcame beauty.
Friday Feb. 18
Phoenix - Mountain & Lakes
Blue or White Tees
Stableford
1st Blue Flight: Rick Sharp, 37 pts
2nd Blue Flight:John Emmerson, 36 pts
3rd Blue Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 34 pts
4th Blue Flight: Rod Air, 32 pts
1st White Flight: Dr. Raimund Cerny, 36 pts
2nd White Flight: Tom Noonan, 36 pts
3rd White Flight: Charles Li, 34 pts
4th White Flight: Linda Lee, 33 pts
Near Pins: #M8 Sugar Ray Handford; #L7 Tommy Sliman.
The field was evenly split between those that chose the Blue Tees of Phoenix
Mountain/Lake and those that chose the White. The Hermit led the Blue Bombers
with 37 points, with the Golf Manager but one adrift. Joe “I’m in the”
took the bronze and old friend Rod Air tied up the rare fourth place. Newly
arrived Dr. Raimund Cerny showed no jet lag as he out counted Tommy Noonan for
first in White. Charles Li edged Linda Lee for third. Linda tapped the pay
window only after enduring the math with John Hillier.
Three at the top at Bangpra
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
Another hot day dawned on Tuesday,
February 15, as three dozen golfers left the bustle of the OK Corral in Soi
Rungland heading for the tranquillity of a day’s medal play at the
beautiful Bangpra International Golf Club.
The course, as with other older courses in the area,
suffers from an inadequate watering system and thus the fairways were hard
and dry but the greens, as always, were decidedly slick. The two playing
groups were cut at fifteen and under and once again this caught some of the
first flight regulars in the second flight. In this division Paul Quodomine
played some excellent golf in recording net 74, which gave him third place
behind relegated Bill Hewitt and his 73. The day’s flight winner was Mark
“Charlie” Gooch and the consistency of his play rewarded him with the
flight’s only sub par round, net 71. Division one saw a tighter contest
with Phil Mitchell, Steve Nowell and Jim Dundon all posting scores of net 70
to share the victory. Once again Mike Allidi shot the days best gross, his
gross 75 giving him net 72.
Visiting Irishman Tony Molloy shot the days only birdie
two and was thus handsomely rewarded, whilst Barry Pethig’s card made such
miserable reading that the Bananas were inevitably his. Bangpra had been hot
and dry but the day had been enjoyable for the Bunker Boys from the OK
Corral.
Ciano’s Champs scramble to success
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
Monthly two day event at
Green Valley - Three ball team scramble
The ever popular OK Corral monthly Two-Day event took
place at Green Valley on Thursday and Friday, February 17 and 18, in the
form of a three ball scramble. Ten teams had entered the event and it was
played over thirty-six beautifully prepared holes, under a hot sun, and
refreshed by a strong breeze on both days.
 Ciano
Glavinia, Ya and Harry Riley - winners at Green Valley.
Beginning at the twelfth hole the scores were excellent
from the start and the only first day surprise was that the favoured team of
Roy Mitchell, Steve Nowell and Brian Bellis were not in the frame, having
played some fine golf but missed so many vital putts. Birdies are the
essence of scramble golf and having a “birdie” like Ya Riley in your
team certainly gives you the edge, with her long hitting and the advantage
of playing from the red tees. So it was at the end of the first day with the
team of Ciano Glavinia, Harry and Ya Riley (60.8) holding a slender lead
over Dave Smith, Al McGrory and Paul Buckland (61.4) and Tony Duthie, John
Healy and Alan Spinks (62.5).
On the second day there was only one shot dropped in the
top six teams and incredibly three of the top four teams scored identical
scores to the first day. The result on the second day, and therefore
overall, was not to change, leaving “Ciano’s Champs” to take the event
by a narrow margin of only 1.2 shots. There were countless birdie twos and
the unfortunate outfit of Jan Eriksen, Ken Graham and Ben Findon scooped the
bananas for their twelve shot under par total of 132, the worst of the
tournament. Such was the quality of the event.
Results:
1st Ciano Glavinia, Harry Riley and Saranya Chaiyanont,
121.6
2nd Dave Smith, Al McGrory and Paul Buckland, 123.8
3rd Tony Duthie, John Healy and Alan Spinks, 125
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday Feb. 14
Treasure Hill, Stroke
Woke up this morning with the eerie feeling that I had
forgotten something important. As I lay back and asked the wife to get the
coffee on, I realized what it was; we were to play Treasure Hill, happy
days.
With clear skies and balmy winds, The Treasure Hill Golf
and Country Club was host to a Stroke Play Competition in two Flights, A
Flight 0 to 18, and B Flight 19 and up.
There is still on going renovations in the bunkers and
rough around the greens, which made play a little difficult at times, but
the day was overall pleasant.
Big Jeff Wylie took the A Flight with a net 71, Bill
Plath was second with a net 73 on countback over Tony Scambler in third. Rob
Brown was fourth with a net 77.
Joop Jasperre took the B Flight with a net 68, Bent
Moeller was second with a net 72, Barry Kerr was third with a net 73 and
Leif Kirkegaarde was fourth with a net 74 on count back over T.J.
Stockinger.
Near Pins: #2 Mike Rushant; #6 Takeshi Hakozaki;
#13Rainer Helling; #17 Jeff Wylie
Long Putts: #9 Bent Moeller; #18 T.J. Stockinger
Thursday Feb. 17
Crystal Bay, Stableford
We have played this course under more than one name, and
despite, which name they choose to call it, it is always one of my favorite
courses.
The only drawback to this course, to me, is the drive to
it, 8.30 a.m. on a morning down Sukhumwit is not one of my favorite
experiences, nor is the drive back in the middle of the rush hour. Still one
must suffer for a little pleasure.
The course is still in fine condition, and what’s more,
was unusually quiet for this time of the year, maybe it is because it has
three fine nine hole layouts. On this day we played the A & B layouts.
This is probably also one of the best courses for walking.
On the day the A Flight, 0 to 18, was won by Kunihirio
Wakabayashi with 38 points ahead of Rob Brown with 37 points, Ted Morris
with 36 points and Allan Ron with 34 points.
In the B Flight we had the winner from Monday, and also
Tropical Bert’s, Joop Jasperre, who before the start said he was playing
so well we should chop him 5 shots, so we did. The winner of the B Flight
was Joop Jasperre with 41 points, when you are hot; you are hot, second was
Cees Bosman with 39 points, third was Dave Richardson with 34 points and in
fourth was Ursula Lehner with 32 points. So to the drive back. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: #A5 Kevin Callaghan; #A8 Kunihiro Wakabayashi;
#B4 Mike Rushant; #B6 Bent Moeller.
Long Putts: #A9 Neil Shaw; #B9 Ebrahim.
PSC Golf from McAllisters Bar and Grill
Friday, February 18 - This was a day
that ended differently than we all expected. Normally when it is the Monthly
Tournament, a group of ‘left overs’ descend on Century Ban Chang, have a
game, then slip on down to McAllisters for a pie and a pint, after the
competition.
Don
and his wife with a few friends
On this day for some reason, only a few got in at Ban Chang,
and a few at Eastern Star, Green Valley was full, so the rest teed off at Siam.
Then all zoomed on down to McAllisters for his excellent free Friday food for
the players in the competition.
Of course with so many players from so many different courses
the comp was a ‘No Show’. What we did have however, was a bunch of golfers,
eating excellent food, enjoying excellent company, and listening to a really
fine group playing songs of quality to an appreciative audience. Don did his
host bit and all was well with the World
This is a really fine way to spend your after golf time. T.T.F.N.
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
It wasn’t a fluke! Daryl Evans is for real. The last time we
were out, Daryl was up in the forties, I believe 43 points. I know it was high.
Today, he again shot the lights out with 42 points. He again pipped Derek Brook
who came in with 41 big points. The axe is being sharpened to take a big slice
off his handicap.
 Winner
Daryl Evans (right), and celler dweller Paul Donahue after a round at Siam.
Following three shots back of the leaders were two golfers;
Doug Chalkley and Alan Pearce both came in with 38 points. Alan did this with
his first four holes being wiped. If he any scores on the first four holes he
could have easily won the day.
Paul Donahue, again made a dive for the cellar and managed to grab hold of
the bag again with 20 points. He was followed closely by Paul Kinner who managed
to stay out of the cellar with 22 points. It seems that the Paul’s did not do
so well this trip around. We will see who gets in the cellar as Tully seems to
be playing better.
Thea casts a spell at The Bunker
PSC golf from The Bunker
Bangpakong
iverside Country Club
No shortage of water here, Bangpakong was immaculate as
usual.
Two divisions “A & B” with the cut at 17 and
under. Brian Bellis was champion with a net 66. John Hughes was runner up
with 69 net. Wilf Latham was third with 74. In Division “B” a good round
from Martin Davis with 66 net took first place, Geoff Parker was second with
71 and David Johnson third with 74 net. Near the pins were won by Mark
Gooch, Geoff Parker and John Aubern.
Khao Kheow
Country Club
A very hot day for golf at Khao Kheow where the boys from
the Bunker played a stableford competition on Wednesday February 16.
 Jan
and Thea Von Spellen from Holland enjoy their golf with the Bunker. Thea
returned 2 nearest the pins this last week.
Peter Habgood returned a very good score playing off 11
handicap. He scored 41 points to take first prize. Joint Second, both with
36 points were Thea Von Spellen and Mark Gooch. Near the pins were won by
Allen Endersbe, Peter Habgood, John Hughes and Thea Von Spellen.
Royal Thai Navy Course
On Friday February 18 the weather was hot, but the course
was in good condition, but the greens were a little slow. The slow greens
didn’t affect Grandville Swanton who shot a net 67 to take first prize in
Division “A”. Runner up was Roger Privett 3 stokes off the pace and in
third with a net 71 was Bob Pearce. Three very good under par games from
Division “A”. In Division “B” the scores were much higher with Geoff
Parker winning with a net 73. Second came Neil Griffin with net 77 and joint
third were Jim Wooler and Peter Hoyle both with 78. Near the pins were won
by Jim Wooler, Thea Von Spellen, Roger Privett and Neil Griffin.
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
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar
Tuesday Feb. 15
Plutaluang
Stableford
You can walk into a bar every day of your life, sit down
and have a beer, walk out and not notice major changes have taken place.
On this Tuesday, as the players gathered on the patio to
eat breakfast, it was obvious there had been a change, there was something
different. Suddenly it struck, why was there a hole, flag and a putting
green in the corner? Also a new bar. Things were indeed looking up, Bert as
promised had bitten back and filled the pond in mosquitoes take that!
 Pu
and Bert with winners, Jeff Wylie (left) and Joop Jasperre (center back)
showing off the new corner.
The players sat, looked, and declared this a major
improvement. Then, still discussing the change, loaded up and departed for
Plutaluang.
At Plutaluang the players booked in and started out the
day on the South course, to be followed by the East. On the day the course
was in excellent condition and important of late, was well watered. The
greens were fine and the caddies were polite and efficient. Round over the
players gathered in the Restaurant, this is always a fine place to eat and
drink, as the prices are so good. You may even have a couple of beers.
So back to Bert’s to tuck into a fine Chilli Con Carnie
and sit around the flag. On to the golf and we had one new winner as Joop
Jasperre won the Division 2 and one well-known name as Jeff Wylie won the
Division 1. Presentation over the sky slowly darkened and we sat in peace,
with no buzzing in the ears, to enjoy our beer. Well done Bert!
Incidentally new innovations at Bert’s is that he now
does an Early Bird Breakfast, starting at 7.30 a.m., so the golfers can eat
on the way to the course, and one night a week will host a quiz night.
T.T.F.N.
Results:
Winners: Division 1 Jeff Wylie, Division 2 Joop Jasperre.
Near Pins: George Roumas, Jeff Wylie (2), Claude Haladjian, Garry Hobbs,
Maurie Bowman, Andy Evans.
Long Putts: Bob Noble, Nigel Cannon, Adrian Gosset, Jannie Jasperre and Roy
Pemblet.
Fiery Finn Fires First in Five
MBMG Casuals League - Week 18
With the loyalties of left-backs being questioned and
torrid tales of tapping up being bandied around like roses and chocolates
the Lupercalia weekend’s festivities were somewhat overshadowed.
The manager of the defending champion’s when asked
about his stance, regarding the allegations of a want away defender replied,
“At the moment, our worry is to get Esa concentrated on our next game. He
knows he is important to our title challenge and I expect him to continue to
an outstanding job when selected on Saturday”.
The Robin Hood without influential midfielder Irving
arrived for the searing hot 3 p.m. kick-off hoping to take advantage of an
unsettled Dubliner defence. The early cut and thrust of the game decidedly
in Dubliner favour but an inability to capitalise allowed the men of
Sherwood to put together some initiatives of their own. Upping the tempo the
table toppers forced a series of corners; one clearance fell to the lurking
left back Heiskanen. As most eyes turned to the heavens, the tennis courts
or the spare balls, the fired up Finn pile drove a fearsome projectile right
into the far corner of the net.
The shell shocked Lincoln green had no answer before the
referee’s half time whistle blast.
The only winners in the second half were the heat and
lovers of slapstick comedy. Level pegging within the first five minutes as a
slice of good fortune saw a weak Robin Hood shot take a late deflection and
enter the one spot of the net not covered by the diving Ae or three covering
defenders. Eight second half minutes saw the advantage returned as somehow
Scott failed to head a bouncing ball across a yard of space to his
keeper’s arms. Nicolson trundling into the gap and exploiting the error
with a deft finish: 2 - 1 was the final result as the teams fled the heat.
“It’s been five years”, said a jubilant Heiskanen,
“but I wanted to underline my desire to stay white and pink. Of course
I’m flattered by the attention and the money but when I go to bed on
Friday’s all I dream about is pulling on that shirt for another Dubliner
title. In his playing career the new coach always knew how to stay detached
and delegate responsibility to others, he’s translated that talent off the
pitch splendidly.”
Bangkok United pushed themselves clear of the relegation
zone with a 3 - 1 win over the Bangkok Blitz. The Winking Frog showing a
lack of consistency that must have their manager tearing his hair out
crashed at home to RC Pattaya. Goals from Tee and Pires not enough to stop
the resort dwellers head south with a 4 - 2 win.
Sunday, title hopefuls third placed Bullshead took on
title hopefuls fourth placed German All Stars. A smart interaction between
Ruben and Phillip resulted in a break through for Phillip who surged into
the Brazilians area to slot a neat shot into the right hand corner of the
goal. The Bullshead not raising anything healthier than a header against the
bar in the first half found themselves two down in the second half, Phillip
once again their nemesis with Franz this time finding the killer pass. GAS
walking away 2 - 0 another first time win to add to their list.
The battle at the basement left British Club Casuals and
AFC Shrewsbury unchanged in position. A 1 - 1 draw leaving both managers
disappointed with their Valentine haul.
Results (Week 18): Scandinavian Vikings 3 - 0 Les Gaulois
de Bangkok; Robin Hood FC 1 - 2 The Dubliner; Bangkok United 3 - 1 Blitz FC;
The Winking Frog FC 2 - 4 Racing Club Pattaya; Seaboard FC 3 - 0 Patana.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
This is going to be one of those Chinese menu type
columns. Take something from column “A”. Something from Column “B”,
add a nice beverage but no egg roll. Following former WBC Champ Wayne
McCullough’s attempt to dethrone Oscar Larios at the Injun Casino in
California recently, there were calls for Wayne to retire. Some writers,
fans and just those that want to have an opinion joined in the fray. The
fact is that it’s a decision to be made by Wayne and his wife Cheryle.
What do they think? “I thought the defeat was closer than the scorecards
suggested and after a break in my home town of Las Vegas, I believe I will
return to the ring and after a couple of warm-up fights would like a
re-match with Larios. I believe I am worthy of a return with the
champion.”
Fahprakorb
Rakkiatgym (Kratingdaenggym) celebrates his victory as Pisit Khetpasook
(left), Chonburi governor and Wattana Jantaworanont, Pattaya deputy mayor
proudly join him on stage. Fahprakorb knocked out Bobby Pacquiao of the
Phillipines in the 9th round, Friday February 18. (photo Pattaya
Mail/Ariywat Nuamsawat)
Remember when I predicted that IBF #3 Fahprakorb
Rakkiatgym (46-3) would beat Bobby Pacquiao (21-12-3) when they fought last
Friday in Pattaya for the Pan Pacific Title? Of course you do! Well I was
spot on as he KO’d Pacquiao in the 9th stanza. The early rounds were
fairly even with the winner taking control at the end of the
4th,”Rakkiatgym is now ready to meet the IBF 126 lbs pound champion
Marquez. I am sure Rakkiatgym will defeat Juan Marquez and set up a return
bout with Manny Pacquiao. “Fahprakorb has the tools and the desire to
defeat Manny Pacquiao,” said his promoter. Promoters always talk that way.
They don’t get hit. Doubtful if Rakkiatgym will get the chance to fight
Marquez as the fight would have to be in the USA. When Rakkiatgym fought
Manny Pacquiao in March of 2001 he ended up in the hospital. Don’t think a
rematch would be in the fighters best interest. The Promoter? Remember, he
don’t get hit!
In the days following the match it was announced that WBC
Champ Larios would next step in the ring against WBO champ Joan Gusman.
Joan? Yep. Not going to happen! Larios injured his bicep against McCullough
and according to promoter Oscar DeLaHoya, “He’s going to get operated on
and he’ll be out for roughly three months maximum, then he’ll be able to
come back and defend his title. He’s a kid who is one step away from
participating in big events. He’s willing to fight anybody. He’s
successfully defended his WBC title nine times and he’s a kid that’s
going to grow possibly into a jr lightweight. He’s a very exciting
fighter; this guy goes out and gets the job done. He’s kind of like a
throwback to those Mexican fighters that we used to see at the Olympic
Auditorium.”
That said, he had his hands full with McCullough. Mr.
McCullough is spot on. The Square Ring had the fight 117-112 which was
closer than the “official judges”. Plus the fact that The Square Ring
dressed by Wil Tailor of Soi 6 looked a heck of a lot better. It was not the
score so much, but that McCullough never appeared or was in fact hurt. He
was full of fight at the end. The argument can be made, which I am, that the
layoff from the ring had an adverse effect on McCullough’s stamina. A
couple of tune up fights and maybe the results are different. Regardless, in
the end, the decision whether to retire or not is with Wayne and his family.
My vote? Give’em hell Wayne!
Ever wonder what happened top Former WBC super
middleweight champion Robin Reid (38-4) after he beat Brian Magee last June
for the IBO title? In that fight Reid knocked Magee down four times on the
way to the IBO Super Middle title. Try this on for size. The fight in
Magee’s home turf of Belfast had the local guy on the mat four time yet
one judge only had it 113-112 for the winner. Heck of a home town try? Off
that fight Magee gets WBO Champ Joe Calzaghe (38-0) on March 18 in Belfast.
This fight as Calzaghe continues his “I’ll fight anyone, anywhere that I
can beat.” Of course you wondered about Reid, he’s back. He pitched a
shutout (60-54) against Frenchman Ramedane Serdjane (17-17) at the Leisure
Centre in Brentwood, England. Prior to that Reid lost to Sven Ottke (32-0)
in Ottke’s home area of Germany. Note to the guy that guides Reid’s
career Barry Hearne, “Keep Reid out of the other guy’s home town.”
I know my pal Steve is going to climb on my case here but
got to bring up some comments made by Danny Green as he gets ready for the
rematch with Markus Beyer on March 12 in the land of “Bodacious Ta Ta’s
and beer”. Green recently said of Beyer, “He lacks courage and
confidence and is scared to fight anywhere but Germany where he always gets
hometown decisions. Beyer’s been slipping for some time. He was ready to
go when I last fought him and is riper for the taking now. Deep down he
knows that he shouldn’t have the title. If the first fight had been
anywhere but Germany he wouldn’t have it. Mentally he’s battered and
scarred. He has to go to sleep at night without the psychologist by his side
and the voices he hears in his head won’t comfort him.” Now 99% of what
Green says may be true. The 1% that isn’t? “...He (Beyer) lacks
courage...” Beyer has plenty of courage when you consider that he got the
“weedoodle” kicked out of him last time and is coming back for more.
The English Press, not to be confused with actual news
gathering, is reporting that Athens Olympic hero Amir Khan is thinking about
teaming up with the family of Naseem Hamad and in particular the “hate
spewing lower than camels dung” brother Riath. Opportunity seems good here
as Amir could have his coming out party on the same card in Yemen when the
“Lop Eared Camel Jockey”, that would be Naseem Hamed, makes his come
back to the ring. I can see it now, “Come to Yemen for fun and frolic.
Bring lots of Rial, we eat Hilbeh and have fun time training to be camel
jockey.”
Here’s one of those, “You’ve got to be kidding”.
Last week I viewed with a jaundice eye the announcement that Scott Harrison
would get it on with Juan Manual Marquez on May 7. I implied that somehow
Harrison’s manager Frank Warren would foul the deal up. “Whoops”
“Nachio” Beristain the manager of IBF/WBA Champ Marquez wants more
money. No deal, so no fight! Silly man. Couple of local lads in action last
week in Bangkok. Neither fight a real “biggie” but still local action.
WBA #2 Fly Champ Denkaosan Kaovichit (29-1) retained his PABA crown with a
7th round KO of former WBC title challenger Randy Mangubat (31-22-12). Was
the fight close? Yep, up until the opening bell sounded. Also Petchtapee
Pinsinchai impressively captured the ABCO interim lightfly title when he
defeated ABCO#2 Dondon Jimena (14-3-2) by TKO at the start of the 9th when
the Filipino couldn’t continue. Pinsinchai had been the Muaythai King at
108-115.
One of the more unpleasant people in boxing is Laila Ali along with her
husband/promoter/manager John “Ya Ya” McClain. For someone that has had
all the breaks she is in point of fact a rude, crude, no class bum. Just
goes to prove that Dad’s can’t pass on some traits to their offspring.
She recently fought on TV where one of the commentators was Lucia Rijker.
When Rijker was in the ring most considered her the best women boxers ever.
She’s had some “problems” but her mouth is still going full speed
ahead. When asked during the Ali fight, “What impresses you about Ali “,
she replied, “Nothing!” There is a chance that the two will meet in the
ring later in the year. My Pal Patrick the Flying Frog has an opinion of the
results of that fight,”Rijker-Ali fight is in the works? I bet my ass that
Rijker will KO Layla Ali within the first 3 rounds. My friend...” Now that
I’ll drink to, and to the Year of the Cock.
PH3- Run 1903
This run had disaster with a capital D written all over
it. Before I arrived at the A-site in my chauffeured limo. I’d already
heard rumours of discontent amongst the hares and with their collective
reputation, I feared the worst. Fear not readers; it weren’t that bad. A
previously used football field sized A-site next to a small lake was ample
enough to house all the vehicles. I noticed that the bridge had gone but my
keen eyesight had already mapped out my afternoon stroll with whoever cared
to join me.
The bus arrived and off stepped the infamous Derelick.
Rumour has it that a book deal had been signed for his life story. Dear
readers, a 5 volume missive would only cover half of it. Nice to see you
back Derek. Pre-circle activities underway. I counted at least 4 picnics
with my missus running the biggest one. Monday has become stinky-house day
for me. Even the tree rat won’t touch the ‘food’ and that little
bugger eats almost anything.
Circle called and all the cracks are given a rose.
Rottweiler did her run by leaving the picnic to collect hers (well, it was
the only one she’d receive all day). Runners, walkers and cripples off,
including me. Yes readers, I get a sweat on nowadays. No more staying at the
beer truck. No sirree Bob! 10 minutes later, after a nice stroll around the
lake, Parish Priest, Red Arsehole, Cl*t Face and myself arrived back at the
a-site. First again and no shortcutting. Well, how can you shortcut a
shortcut? Parish Priest - remember him? The bad man goes home and PP
arrives. You can’t win.
After cracking a reviving Tiger, I wandered over to the
big picnic. A girl with stunning curls in her hair has her back to me. Who
is this? Hello! She turns around to reveal Ewok? Bugger. Oh well, next time.
I prise The Buzz away from her picnic to give Peler her 100 run (picnic)
T-shirt design. Naked girl on a Harley - dream on you muppet.
Everyone was back in after not too long, a bit different
from most Free Willy runs. Karamba had actually threatened Willy with GBH if
he was still running in the dark. A better run shirt than usual was being
hawked around the 125 runners.
Circle called, raffle on and Derelick marks his return by
claiming a prize with a wrong number. Nothing changes, just like Liverpool
still being the most annoying team in the Premiership. Usual stuff dealt
with including Parish Priest’s 2 Russian virgins. Nice people but I
don’t believe that they are in the KGB. Does it exist anymore? Some Scandi
was named Single Cell for some reason, I didn’t hear as Karamba was having
his own circle as usual.
I lost my rag over something trivial and I will use this
text to apologise to the person concerned and the Monday Hash in general.
Politics seem to have been pushed aside under the new GM and long may it
continue. V.V. became the new Hash Trash and long overdue in my humble
opinion. Loving couples were called in for a smoochy dance. I grabbed the
nearest person to me (sorry GKW) but quickly moved onto the Queen. The King
was not amused. Proceedings were stumbling to a close as it was a late hour
but no one seemed to care as a Free Willy inspired run had been a success
and when was the last time you could say that. It was way past my bedtime so
I didn’t go back to the TQ. I expect a great time was had by all. So I
shall express thanks on behalf of the Monday PH3.
On On
Dr. Pinky
Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia 2005 launched
Season Launch and Test Session
Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
February 20 -21, 2005
Hottest field ever for Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia
as British GT Champion enters fray.
The hugely successful Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia
begins preparation for its third season this weekend with the official
launch and two days of testing, backed for the second year by global
semiconductor giant Infineon Technologies AG, with arguably the strongest
field yet.
Reigning champion A-Ha Racing returns to defend its title
in 2005, with Briton Matthew Marsh at the wheel. Marsh clinched four wins
last season for the team, taking the title in the final round at the Macau
Grand Prix in November, and will be a strong contender again this year.
Marsh will be joined by the region’s leading sportscar
drivers in identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars, however the entry in the
series this year of reigning British GT Champion Jonathan Cocker is bound to
up the ante. Cocker won the 2004 British GT Championship with a staggering
14 podium finishes out of 16 races, making him the youngest ever champion.
The 18-year-old Wunderkind made his mark on the series last year when he
took victory in his only Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia outing of 2004 in
the support race at China’s first Formula 1 Grand Prix in Shanghai. Cocker
will be racing with a new team Porsche Centre Qingdao of China.
However, Cocker knows he will be up against serious
competition from Marsh and drivers such as Thai veteran and 2004 runner-up
Charoensukhawatana Nattavude, who led the championship going in to the final
round last year. This year Nattavude is racing with another newcomer to the
series, the SCC Racing Team of China.
Malaysia’s Rizal Ramli returns to the series with his
Crest Jaseri Racing Team on top form following his phenomenal win in Macau
last November. The former European Formula 3 pilot impressed throughout his
debut season with his decisive driving style collecting, like Marsh, four
wins on the way. However, some bad luck meant he finished the season in
fourth place overall.
Team Jebsen will field Hong Kong youngster Darryl
O’Young for a second year having finished their debut season an impressive
fifth overall. The 24-year-old Blue Girl and PUMA-backed driver has been
preparing for the season by competing in selected rounds of the
ultra-competitive Battery Town Trans Tasman GT3 Cup in New Zealand, taking
podium finishes in all three races in his final outing. Competing against
some of the biggest names in Australian and New Zealand motorsport, such as
V8 Championship driver Craig Baird, O’Young demonstrated both his
undoubted talent as well as just how high the standards of professional
racing in Asia have become in a relatively short time.
Thailand’s Vutthikorn Inthraphuvasak makes a welcome
return to the series, and this year the series is honoured to have the
participation of Thailand’s Minister for Tourism and Sport, His Excellency
Sontaya Kunplome. His Excellency has competed in two rounds of the series,
one each in 2003 and 2004, both at his country’s Bira Circuit, but this
year becomes a series registered driver. Vutthikorn and His Excellency will
join forces to promote their country as the series travels throughout the
Asian region.
Another exciting addition to the field this year is
Malaysian-based Nigel Albon making a full time return to the series, his
only appearance last year being in the final round at the Macau Grand Prix.
Albon just lost out on the championship title in 2003 by a mere four points,
and his return to the series this year with Singapore team Stuttgart Auto
Pte. Ltd. will add to the intense competition in the sterling field.
William E. Heinecke of Thailand heads up Class B, the
category created last year for amateur drivers and just as hotly contested
as Class A. Heinecke was runner up in the class in 2004, and is again joined
this year by Hong Kong’s Philip Ma who has been competing in motorsport
now for over a decade.
Joining the series full time this year is William E.
“Chip” Connor II of the USA. Chip competed in the Shanghai Formula 1
round of the series last year finishing a creditable fourth in the Class in
his series debut. He has been competing in various vintage events in the US
and Europe since 1998.
Sri Lankan driver Dilantha Malagamuwa is currently
planning his 2005 season campaign, and hopes to better his impressive 9th
overall Championship finish in his maiden year in the series last year.
Making his Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia debut this
season will be Hong Kong driver, Alain Li. Li competed in the UK Renault
Clio Cup in 1993, and since then in sportscar series in West Europe.
Singapore driver Khoo Kay Hong will be taking part in the
official test with a view to contesting the full season, while Steve Cho and
Gene Lee, both professional drivers in South Korea will also take part. Cho
and Lee are looking at competing in selected rounds this year, naturally
including their “home” event at Taebaek Circuit, with plans for a full
season in 2006.
Commented Porsche Asia Pacific’s Managing Director,
Christer Ekberg: “We are all looking forward to another tremendously
exciting season and have no doubt it will be the best so far. The Porsche
Infineon Carrera Cup Asia has the irresistible combination of talented
youngsters, experienced professionals, and enthusiastic amateurs, all
competing in identical state-of-the-art Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racing machines.
Each and every driver is completely committed to one thing - winning. We are
confident that the result will be, more than ever, some of the most exciting
on-track action to be found anywhere in Asia.”
General Manager of the series is Ian Geekie, who brings
with him more than three decades of motorsport experience, while the
preparation and maintenance of the fleet of awesome racing machines is the
responsibility of Malaysian-based EKS Motorsport.
Following the launch and test sessions on February 20 and
21, the 11-round Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia 2005 season will get
underway in March with the opening round held as part of the Malaysian
Formula 1 Grand Prix. The series returns to Sepang International Circuit in
May, before traveling to Thailand’s Bira Circuit, Goldenport in Beijing,
China, and the Taebaek race track in South Korea. In October, it will once
again be a support event to the Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix in Shanghai,
before its grand finale as part of the 52nd Macau Grand Prix weekend.
The Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia runs as part of the
Asian Festival of Speed, organised by Malaysian-based Motorsport Asia
Limited.
Formula BMW Asia 2005 juniors announced
The five lucky recipients of the Formula BMW Asia 2005
scholarships are confirmed, with drivers from five countries across Asia
Pacific about to embark on their single seater careers.
The drivers are Wang Jian Wei (20) of China, An Suk Won
(18) of South Korea, Armaan Ebrahim (15) of India, Michael Patrizi (20) of
Australia, with the fifth scholarship going to Robert Boughey (22) of
Thailand, runner-up in the Formula BMW Rookie Cup last year.
The four new youngsters were selected from 31 drivers who
signed up for the evaluation and license courses held at the new BMW
Performance Center at the Bahrain International Circuit last month.
Each of the five Scholarships provides a USD 50,000
subsidy towards competing in the series, as well as the season-long,
comprehensive Education & Coaching Programme. The youngsters are taught
far more than driving, technology and how to set up a racing car. Driving
Skills and Tactics, Chassis Set-up, Fitness Training and Nutrition, Media
Training and Public Relations, and Sponsorship and Sports Management are
also integral elements of the curriculum.
Wang Jian Wei hails from Hebei Province in China and, as
well as being a racing driver, is also an assistant racing instructor in the
Capital Beijing. He has raced in some rounds of the China Rally
Championship, and the 1600cc Class of the China Circuit Championship, but
has not competed in single seaters - or karts - before.
With the popularity of motorsport growing almost as fast
as the economy in the world’s most populous country, there will be a
strong interest in Wang’s performance this year as the development of
Chinese drivers continues.
South Korea’s An Suk Won has an impressive karting
career under his belt having won the 2001 Everland Cup Kart Championship in
his home country with four wins. The following year he went on to clinch the
Hyundai Insurance Cup Karting series, again notching up four wins. In 2003
and 2004, he competed in some rounds of the national F-1800 KMRC series,
winning a race last year.
An became interested in motorsport through his father,
himself a former racer, and the youngster cites 2003 Formula BMW Asia Junior
and last year’s championship runner-up You Kyong-Ouk, also Korean, as his
favourite driver! He will have the backing of BMW Korea as he embarks upon
the next stage of his career, which he hopes will take him all the way to
Formula 1.
Armaan Ebrahim, son of Akbar Ebrahim a major figure in
Indian motorsport and the country’s first ever Formula 3 driver, began his
career in a two stroke Comer engine kart at the age of four, racing around
car parks as there were no tracks in India at the time. His next taste of
racing came at 13 when he attended the first Rotax Karting school in
Bangalore. Teacher at the school was Malaysian racing driver Ng Wai Leong
who took the youngster to his home country to train for six months, and
karting successes followed.
In 2004, Ebrahim took part in the Asian Kart Open
Championship, winning the Philippines round, and that same year won the
Indian Rotax Junior Max Challenge Series with a perfect score of five wins
in five races. He also competed in the JK Tyre Indian National Formula LGB
1300cc Class, winning the championship at the age of just 15, making him the
youngest Indian ever to win a national single seater championship.
Ebrahim has spent a great deal of time with and received
training from Narain Karthikeyan, the latest addition to Formula 1 and the
first Indian ever to reach the pinnacle of motorsport. Akbar believes this
could well mark a turning point for the sport in India as more youngsters
take their cue from Karthikeyan and take a professional approach to racing,
while sponsors will become more aware of the benefits of invovlement in
motor racing.
Michael Patrizi is the first Australian to win a Formula
BMW Asia Scholarship, which is made all the more exciting in the year in
which the series will make its first visit to his country.
After winning the 2002 Australian Karting Championship,
Patrizi raced in Italy in 2003, in the European and World Karting
Championships. In 2004, he competed in his first Australian Formula Ford
season, in both the New South Wales and Victoria championships.
Robert Boughey, who won a scholarship for 2004 so will
have the benefit of a second year in the Education and Coaching Programme,
will certainly be one to watch this season. He begins the year determined to
clinch the title, in fact he is looking to repeat the dominance of the 2003
and 2004 champions, Ho Pin Tung and Marchy Lee. A conscientious and talented
driver who began last season with virtually no racing experience and without
the benefit of a background in karting, Boughey’s talent developed quickly
and will continue to do so. He has tested extensively over the winter break
and continued with his taxing fitness programme.
This year, the drivers will have even more to fight for,
as BMW Motorsport will award the 2005 Formula BMW Asia Champion a free
season in the Formula BMW UK Championship 2006. The prize, worth the
equivalent of USD 200,000, will mean the chance to compete against
Britain’s hottest young single seater talent as well as exposure to some
of the world’s leading Formula 3 outfits, the next step in a driver’s
career.
In 2005, Formula BMW Asia will span seven meetings with two Rounds at
each event. The series travels to Dubai for the first time, then Bahrain
where it is a support event to the Middle East round of the FIA Formula 1
World Championship, Malaysia, China, South Korea, Australia, another first
for the series, with the final Rounds held as part of the China Formula 1
Grand Prix in Shanghai.
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