SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Thai Laser Nationals 2005 hits the beach this weekend

Eastern Thai Hotel Association sports day goes ahead despite the rain

Champion Jerry, the toast of the Bunker

Sports Quiz

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed

Khao Kheow kicks back ‘hard’

Bob the bandit strikes again!

“Champion” Bangkok International Rugby Sevens

Dave Palmer ‘doubles-up’

Khanna & Thompson share fine win

Thong takes the trophy

Paweena’s are the cup kings

The Irish steal the glory

Shenanigans at Green Valley

K4 will be shopping for a gold ensemble

Wednesday Quiz League

Brian shows good form

VFW Post 9876 & Friends move up and are now tied for first place

The Beautiful Game?

‘Plath’ of glory

The Square Ring

The day that the rain came down

Al Khalifa crowned Formula BMW Asia Champion in Shanghai

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Thai Laser Nationals 2005 hits the beach this weekend

GMTEE major sponsors this year

by Peter Cummins

The Laser is one of the world’s most numerous - and, certainly, one of the most strictly-controlled one-design racing craft. Although it is an ideal racing dinghy for this reason, it is, nevertheless, a deadly-dull monochrome, with generally a white deck, a white sail, white rudder and center-board. The great Laser governing body, did, however, make a concession, ruling in its infinite wisdom that the first and/or second digits in the black international number must be red. Then, along came the Laser Radial, a smaller rig with a purple and blue-striped sail, Sailed by smaller people and coveted by the women - for the smaller, more manageable rig, rather that the colours, on could safely surmise.

Strict design rules make the Laser one of the world’s most competitive craft. The Radials add some colour.

Now, this weekend, there is going to be a lot of colour and panache, as the Lasers sail the 2005 National Championships off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, though, admittedly, most of the verve will be on the land.

Neil Semple a Laser aficionado convinced GMTEE, a Hong Kong urban fashion house which produces designer tee shirts on demand, to sponsor the event, infusing its bold designs which incorporate an East-West flavour that perfectly reflect its environment: Hong Kong.

According to the company principal designer, Dickie, “GMTEE is fusion fashion created with a cut and thrust attitude that mirrors his owb philosophty”. (GMTEE’s Dickie is not to be confused with the Royal Varuna Dickie (van den Heuvel) perennial principal race officer, who wears exotic tee shirts but definitely does not design them: Our Dickie rather designs courses for racing fraternity and will be at it again over this weekend of October 21 -23, when the 2005 Lasers will be held off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, South Pattaya.)

The GMTEE Dickie’s designs are a little more far-reaching and are a celebration of the style and iconography of the Orient, which so captivates the West.

As GMTEE’s Dickie explains, “It’s important for the GMTEE brand to have a strong identity, young people like that. I draw my inspiration from HK and Asia. I like to use oriental symbols and motifs that encapsulate that way of life, and which youngsters from any culture can easily identify and connect with. To me, the brand represents simple fashion with an Asian fusion style, just like the yin-yang symbol that fuses the positive and the negative. It’s dynamic, fun, but also edgy.”

“We were inspired to set up GMTEE as a way to promote the Hong Kong community, to get people from all corners of the earth interested in its culture,” says Dickie.

Since the summer of 2003, on-line sales have been steadily growing, particularly in North America and Europe. So what makes the designs so popular with the younger generation?

Well, the t-shirts are loud and brash. They serve one purpose only - to make a personal statement. Whoever wears them sends out a clear message; that they are individualistic, maybe slightly subversive, but with a definite desire to separate themselves from the high street masses.

Whether it’s through the Wu Tang Clan or Tarrantino films, one thing is for sure: Western teenagers can’t get enough of the aura and mystery that surrounds Asian culture. It’s fresh and captivates their imaginations with the power of a one-inch punch. This is why GMTEE are doing what they do. Once you pull on a GMTEE shirt you feel empowered, energised like a mythic god. Who doesn’t get excited about walking down the street with a full length picture of the legendary Samurai warrior, Itto Ogami, on their back? It creates an attitude, a chin-high self-belief. It makes you feel good. And that’s why so many people are buying the t-shirts. You just can’t get them in your bland, predictable high-street shops.

Probably the symbiosis between these young-oriented designs and sailing a Laser is that both appeal to a younger, more adventurous audience.

But there the similarity ends. One cannot even add a rope to a Laser and even the placement of the sail numbers must be exactly as dictated by the national authority and there can be no deviations.

On the contrary, one can simply order a tee shirt, on line and dictate the pattern,

Even voting for your favourite new designs online at the website, making it a unique, interactive experience. Designs that receive the highest number of votes go straight into production. It’s an organic approach. “We value people’s feedback,” says Dickie, “it’s the best way to build up the brand and keep it fresh, we know what works and what doesn’t.”

“It doesn’t take a genius,” Dickie insists, “to realise that the mythology and martial arts movement that came out of Asia would eventually become iconic in the West. Teenagers love the idea of ninjas, samurai warriors, dragons, mythical gods. I t’s exciting, inspiring even. The iconography it represents is sharp, clean, easily identifiable, and young people want to be associated with it”

This is what GMTEE is tapping, Dickie concludes, “to promote and celebrate the oriental tradition through its unique designs. If you want to stand up and be noticed, don’t just wait for it to happen. Visit the website today, buy a tee-shirt, and make a statement. It’s that easy.

Or, as a viable alternative, go out and win the Laser National Championships this weekend and you will, no doubt, be kept in exotic designs for life.

The GMTEE Lasers will be sailed over the three days from Saturdaty 22 - through Monday, 24 October. Registration and briefing will start at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club on Saturday morning at 10 a.m., with the warning signal for race one expected at 1 p.m.

With the north-easterly setting in, between some horrendous - but, fortunately for the sailors - brief storm-fronts, Dickie (van den Heuvel) expects a huge fleet of Lasers and Radials to compete.

Actually, this event introduces a plethora of regattas over the next few weeks, all of which will be faithfully covered by the “Bangkok Post”, the Pattaya Mail” and the “Pattaya Blatt”.

For more information on the sailing, contact the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, rvyc@ ptty.loxinfo.co.th; web-site: royal-varuna-yacht-club.com; tel 038 306 290; fax: 038 250 115.

Of course, to deck yourself out in an up-market tee shirt, contact Don Rae, general manager or Dickie at [email protected]. Available exclusively via its own dedicated website, www. gmtee.com, a GMTEE tee shirt is just a mouse-click away - whether you win the Laser Nationals or not.


Eastern Thai Hotel Association sports day goes ahead despite the rain

Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn and a representative of the Eastern Thai Hotel Association present a donation to Banglamung School and Photisamphanpittayakarn School

Sixteen hotels participated in the Eastern Thai Hotel Association annual sports day on October 9, held at Banglamung School. Heavy rain made the official opening ceremony a little difficult and the rain continued afterwards for an hour. The athletic events were held in the morning but the scheduled football final between Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel and Montien Pattaya Hotel had to be postponed till a later date. The opener of the event was Sansak Ngampichet, advisor to the minister of interior, with Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn and Chatthan Khunchorn na Ayudhaya, director of TAT Region 3 also attending the opening ceremony.

Miss Bundrik Kusolwit, chairman of the Eastern Thai Hotel Association, said that the purpose of the sports day was to foster unity between association members and also to encourage members to take regular exercise. The event raised funds for supporting sports at Banglamung and Photisamphanpittayakarn schools.


Champion Jerry, the toast of the Bunker

PSC golf with the Bunker

Mountain Shadow Country Club – Monday October 10

Ruam presents the winning trophy to the Bunker’s Annual Champion, Jerry Cooney.

The Bunker’s Annual Champion has arrived. After a one week break from the first round, Jerry Cooney returned with the winning score to become the Bunkers Annual Champion. He began the day with a share of the lead with Eddie Martin but Jerry was just a little stronger down the stretch and managed to hold Eddie off. Eddie finished in second place whilst several other golfers followed close behind. Special thanks goes to Sander Ruth Sip for his contributions to the event. In the normal competition, Tony Scrambler won division “A” with a net 72 and Roger Privett and Jerry Cooney shared second place with net 74s. In division “B”, Bryan Rought finished first with net 78, Granville Swanton took second with net 80 and in third place was Bob Turner with net 81. Near the pins were won by Jerry Cooney, Eddie Martin (2) and William Macey.

Bangpra Country Club
Wednesday,
October 12

It was a pleasant morning for a stableford competition. Roger Privett captured first place honors with a score of 76; joint runners-up were William Macey and Geoff Parker with 75 points. Near the pins were won by Mikito Homma, Roger Privett (2), and P.J. Redmond.

Eastern Star Friday October 14

We saw a larger than expected turn out today, as the PSC was holding their monthly competition. Two divisions set forth for a medal competition with great scores being returned from both groups. In division “A”, Geoff Parker and Jerry Cooney shared first place honors with net 70s each and William Macey scored a net 73 for a third place finish. In division “B”, Neil Griffin scored a net 70 for a first place finish; second place went to Gary Leigh with net 73 and Granville Swanton came third with a net 74. Near the pins were won by Bryan Rought, Eddie Martin, Steve Lane and Roger Privett.

The Bunker Boys are located on Soi Chaiyapoon (near X-zyte disco and across the street from Tony’s Disco II). Monthly golf schedules are available or consult the Pattaya Mail every week.


Sports Quiz

Here are the answers to last week’s Sport Quiz.
1. Who won this year’s Tour de France?
Answer:
Lance Armstrong
2. Who captained the All Blacks this year against the British Lions?
Answer:
Tana Umaga
3. Which team in ice hockey won the Stanley Cup in 1989?
Answer:
Calgary Flames
Remember, be first to send in the correct answers to win a weekend carvery at Jameson’s Pattaya. Here are this week’s questions:
1. Which horse won the Grand National at Aintree this year?
2. Who was the European Ryder Cup captain in 2002?
3. Who won the individual World Speedway Championship in 1980?


Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed

IPGC golf society at the OK Corral

Chaten enjoys his win at Eastern Star

October 11, the Society exchanged the bustle of Pattaya for the tranquility of Eastern Star golf course for the week’s medal tourney. The course was better prepared than for the previous visit, with greens that were actually receptive, reasonably paced and sand-less, at last! It was to be a day which saw some good golf but for one of the ‘newbies’, Scottish, seven handicapper John Smith, the experience was to prove too much. The unaccustomed heat and humidity took its toll after only eight holes. Manfully John played on, whilst his fellow competitors fared a little better. Three level par rounds saw John Cunningham, Barry Pethig and Arthur Hancock all take a share of the runners-up spot but Chaten Patel’s golf was, as ever, very consistent and his one under 71 was good enough for victory. The day’s best gross figures were the 81’s of Mikael Andersson and John Cunningham and this was some consolation because the two’s proved very elusive. The candidates for the Booby Bevy included an odd-socked Mr. Denis, a regular playing in tight-fitting borrowed shoes and Tam Lloyd’s very unbalanced card. Ultimately, the accountant who took many attempts to audit his card correctly was the fitting winner of the Bevy. It had been a day of old hands, new faces, borrowed clothing and blue language - when the accountant realised his mistake


Khao Kheow kicks back ‘hard’

PSC golf from the Grapevine

October 13, - twenty players headed off to do battle for The Grapevine Tankard, their much-coveted, monthly stroke competition. So, the gentlemen and one lady went up to Khao Kheow, full of hope and anticipation of a good round of golf. That was the early plan, anyway. Most found that plan foolhardy as the course was at it’s testing best. With firm, quick greens, 3 putts (and more) were a little too commonplace. Walter Smith, (12) was able to hold off the disaster holes, shooting a net 75 to win both the ‘A’ Flight and the Tankard. The ‘B’ Flight prize was picked up by Barry Kerr, (19) with a net 79. Not good but good enough. Runners up in both flights were Takeshi Hakozaki, (13) and Keith Hodges, (25). Technical near pin prizes were picked up by Ian and Gordon with 2 each, whilst Mike and Walter each won a long putt.

Tankard winner Walter, (centre) celebrates with Takeshi, Barry, Da & Keith

As can be seen, the course was definitely the winner on this day, with its reputation as one of the toughest tests of golf around Pattaya enhanced. This is what makes golf the challenge that it is and it was pleasing to hear so many golfers say the course was in top condition; just their games were not. All vowed to take up the challenge again in the future. Back at the bar, Opal’s Fettuccini Alfredo won unanimous acclaim (as usual) and really topped off a great day of golf. Look forward to seeing you on a Thursday at The Grapevine.

For more information, please call 038-361736 or come sign up at Soi ‘0’, off Beach Road. Cheers and good golfing. JW


Bob the bandit strikes again!

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

For the past couple of weeks, we have been on our new location at Pattaya CC. The switch from Siam has been a pleasant change as the course maintenance at Pattaya CC is much better. At this point in time, it seems that Siam is under going changes in policy and all we can do, is wait to see what the final decisions will be for the golfing community.

October 3, our weekly winner was none other than the bandit, Bob Benda. Bob won on count-back from Trevor Carnahoff: - both came in with scores of 41 points but on the back nine, Bob had 22 points as compared to Trevor’s 20. Following close on their heels was Dennis Willett with 39 points. There was a close call for the cellar position as Paul Donohue and Rollie Weese both reached for the bag. As it turned out, the younger Paul managed to shoulder Rollie aside for that bag to the cellar.

October 10, Ian Covill managed an excellent score of 45 points. Tony Oakes has already been sharpening his axe for the cut, as Ian’s name will be changed to “Manual”. Coming in four shots back, at 41 points was Mike Morris. This would normally have won the day but second place and a cut in handicap is all Mike could take home with him. Just back of Mike, were Phil Taylor, Paul Kinner and Charlie Devlin. All had good scores but not enough to challenge Ian “Manual” Covill. A winner a few weeks ago and now the bag holder was Herb Schwieterman. How the mighty has fallen, as Herb nose dived to 22 points for the day. There was a sigh of relief from Rollie Weese and Paul Donahue, as the weight was lifted from their shoulders for a week!


“Champion” Bangkok International Rugby Sevens

 Rugby Union - The Eleventh Bangkok Sevens introduces a number of ‘firsts’ this year - the first US men’s and women’s teams to enter; the first time an Australian indigenous side has traveled to Bangkok; and the first time the newly established Chiang Mai Suas have entered a rugby tournament.

A total of 50 teams and 850 players will compete in the Boys U15s “Rugby Challenge”, the Men’s and Women’s Sevens and the Veterans/Golden Oldies divisions all scheduled for 28-30 October. The men’s and women’s competitions will be staged at the Police Club-Stadium Complex, the “Rugby Challenge” at Muang Thong Thani Stadium and the Veterans/Golden Oldies event at Bangkok Patana School.

Tournament Chairman, David Dufall, says this year will better the success of the 2004 event with an influx of new, top international men’s and women’s teams from around the world. From New Zealand, second-timers, Marist North Harbour and Linton Army are bringing very strong sides and are expected to contest the Cup alongside perhaps the best Sevens side in Europe, The Samurai with a star-studded list of specialist European Sevens players. The Samurai have beaten the best in Europe including the British Army Fijians and have run a very close second to the Penguins at the Middlesex Sevens.

The Cobra Club from Kuala Lumpur will also be contesting the Cup event with a very strong line-up of Fijian and Malaysian National players and should give the event a big shake. The dark horse in the Cup might be the Santa Monica Fins who’s parent Club won the US Division 1 Championship last June in San Diego. Other top seeded sides include the Royal Thai Police, the Thai U23s Development Squad coached by Usa Rokoni and Cairns Brothers, the Premier club in the Cairns Rugby Union.

Completing the line-up of teams will be the Thai Air Force and Navy; Kasetsart University Alumni; Eastern Asia University; the Vientiane Tigers; veteran club the Bangkok Japanese, Les Piliers d’Angkor and the Hanoi Dragons who will compete for the 11th straight year plus local expatriate favourites, the British Club and Southerners. The South Darwin “Bad Bunnies” who have also entered the Angkor 10s tournament in Phnom Penh, will compete for their third time in Bangkok and be joined by new teams Briars, St Johns Lakemba and the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team from Sydney.

The Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Trust develops and sponsors indigenous boys and girls through an on-going development program which has seen seven Australian aborigines represent at the national level including Lloyd McDermott, Mark, Glen, and Gary Ella, Lloyd Walker, Barry Lee and James Williams. This year will see a men’s and a women’s side compete at the Sevens.

Atlantis is an invitational women’s Sevens squad from the USA which boasts several National players and is proud to add Thailand to its list of 24 countries already visited in the quest to enjoy the international camaraderie inherent in rugby. They will be opposed by Lloyd McDermott and six Thai clubs including Yala PE College. Yala is being sponsored to play in Bangkok by Woods Bagot Thailand who are also sponsoring the Women’s Rugby Sevens at the tournament.

In a departure from previous years, the “Rugby Challenge” jointly sponsored by Thai Pure Drinks and Brunsworth Ltd, will be conducted at U15 years level and will play full, 15-a-side tackle rugby in line with TRU future development plans. Twelve schools from the North, North East and South of Thailand will line up at Muang Thong Thani Stadium to contest the Cup, Plate and Bowl over a three-day period. The Cup final will be played at the Police Stadium prior to the Women’s Cup final. Additionally, the Sydney based teams from the Sevens will be conducting coaching clinics for all the boys commencing at the Stadium at around 08.30am on Friday 28th October before the “Challenge” begins.

The Veteran’s Division will again feature the Unquenchables from Melbourne, the Indo-chine OBs from Vietnam and Cambodia and the Old Bangkok Bangers. Interestingly however, we have two new-comers in the Brisbane Budgies and the Moscow Lads and together, one could expect a high standard of ‘oldies’ rugby. Ex-Wallaby Adrian Skeggs will be among the ‘Budgies’, no doubt issuing or receiving orders.

‘Champion/Ferodo’ is the major sponsor of this year’s Bangkok Sevens and John Free, Federal Mogul Corporation sales & marketing director South East Asia region, said he was very excited and enthusiastic about supporting the Sevens in its 11th year. Once again, ‘Pernod-Ricard Thailand’, the Bangkok Nursing Hospital and Food Glorious Food are providing strong support for the Event.

The Tournament Sprint, “Dash for Cash” will be sponsored by BMW Financial Services with prize money valued at 25,000 baht for the three fastest men in the Sevens and may well be the richest “professional” foot race held in Thailand To be run over 100 metres in three heats plus a final, the race will pit the fastest rugby sprinters from Europe, USA, Oceania and S.E.Asia.

Of significance to rugby fans is the Guest Speakers Dinner at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit on October 27, which will feature former Wallaby and coach of the NSW Waratahs, Ewen McKenzie. He will be stopping off in Bangkok on his return to Sydney after having taken the Waratahs on the developmental tour to Russia and Romania.

McKenzie will be joined by Melodie Robinson and Charlie Stone from New Zealand. Melodie Robinson is a former NZ Black Fern and twice a member of winning RWC sides. She was the first woman to commentate an international rugby match, is a former Miss Canterbury and is now with Sky TV in New Zealand. Charlie ‘Inky’ Stone is a rugby journalist and author who worked direct to the NZRFU before free-lancing and writing about and observing NZ All Blacks matches from around the world. Tickets are available from David Dufall.

The Organisers are quite certain this year’s “Champion” Bangkok Sevens with international teams from 11 Countries will offer fans a feast of fast rugby in a warm and friendly atmosphere where food and refreshments will be available on site. For more information call 02 249 1834 or 01 822 5932.


Dave Palmer ‘doubles-up’

I.P.G.C. golf with The Caddy Shack

Tuesday October 11 Crystal Bay

The golfers from the Caddy Shack traveled to the immaculate course of Crystal Bay for a Medal competition and the courses of C & A were selected for the event. The players were divided into two divisions with the handicap cut being at 17 and under. The scores in division two were surprisingly low with Clark Alexander and Yui Bissell sharing 2nd place with a net 80 each. The winner was David Lightfoot with a one over par net 73. Division one had 7 handicapper, Dave Palmer and 5 handicapper, Phi Mitchell both shooting one under par net 71’s to share 1st place. Graham Johnson, playing off a 6 handicap came 3rd with a net 74. The ‘Twos’ were shared by Bob Philp and David Lightfoot whilst ‘The Bananas’ were awarded to Ben Findon for his 10 strokes on a par 3. Back at the Caddy Shack, the lucky winner of the Sunday lunch was Les Hall.

Thursday October 13 Noble Place

Today, we traveled to the far away course of Noble Place. It’s the furthest we travel to any venue but the price and the condition of the course make it worth while. The competition, as always on Thursdays was a Stableford and the courses of B & C were selected. The weather was very hot and sticky but the good news was no rain. Alan Bissell came in 3rd place with 32 points but joint winners, with 35 points each were Steve Nowell and Dave Palmer. There were no ‘Twos’ recorded on the day so it goes to a rollover on Tuesday at Mountain Shadow. ‘The Bananas’ were awarded to Phil Smith for his erratic driving… of a golf cart! The Sunday lunch voucher was won by Alan Bissell.

The Caddy Shack is situated on the second part of Soi 17 on the same road as the Harley Bar. For anyone wishing to play golf, we leave the bar at 11.00am for a noon tee off. We play every Tuesday and Thursday and all are welcome.


Khanna & Thompson share fine win

 IPGC golf society at the OK Corral

Thursday, October 13 - On a lovely warm day, the Pattaya Golf Society travelled to the fine course at Mountain Shadow for their weekly stableford tournament. The course, as always, was impeccably presented with fast running greens and all were to enjoy some fine golf. A notable in the frame was Harry Riley. He shot a score of 32 points which led him to think he had no chance but eventually, it established him as an easy third place finisher. The colonial pairing of Sunny Khanna and Stuart Thompson went head-to-head to share the win with excellent cards of 35 points, on a day when high scores were at a premium on the challenging course. Thompson’s card was especially good as his gross score of 80 was the best of the day. He was left to rue his mistakes on the final three holes, ironically after receiving a call from down under in which he was heard to comment on the quality of his golf up to that point. Both winners shared the two’s pot with Barry Pethig and Sunny’s birdie two on the fifteenth came within two inches of an ace. The longest drive of the day was achieved by Rob Dolan who took an incredible eighty minutes to reach the course, having been persuaded by passenger Jim Parkinson that the scenic route was the best. Both were prominent in the frame for the Booby Bevy but the claims of Tam Lloyd’s low score proved irresistible and he accepted the Heineken with relish. Mountain Shadow had again been good to the Pattaya Golf Society


Thong takes the trophy

‘Nick the Pizza’ Lawn Bowls - Singles Challenge

Over the last weekend, the Bowling Green Pattaya held the inaugural ‘Nick the Pizza’ Handicap Singles Challenge. Luck was on the bowlers’ side as the rain finally stopped to allow a full weekend of bowling. Thirty two bowlers plus reserves turned up for the draw and eagerly awaited the handicaps that were given by Dave the pro. Beginners and top bowlers alike were drawn out of the hat for this sudden death knockout and with Dave sidelined with a bad knee, the competition was wide open.

Nick “the Pizza” (right) awarding the trophies to the winner Thong Ooman and the runner up David Cox

There were few surprises in the first round with the exception being the unlucky “Raspberry Ripple” Willy from Chaplin’s bar, who was leading 20-13 but then went to pieces and finally lost 21-20. More Vodka next time Willy. “Huddersfield” John from the George and Dragon played well and eased into the Quarterfinals with the other top seeds. However, he suffered the same fate as Vodka Willy, i.e. being miles in front and unable to cross the ‘finish line’.

Sunday saw an expectant and knowledgeable crowd turn up for what was some of the best bowling seen for a long time. All the quarter finals were within 3 points, with the first to 21 being the winner. After a brief rest from the heat, the semi finals saw Thong Ooman beating the unlucky Peter “ Spam Head” from Chaplin’s, who had been let out on day release by his wife and the favourite, the flying Dutchman frank de Vries being narrowly beaten by the new kid on the block David Cox. In the final, after yet another titanic tussle, the experience of Thong Ooman, our resident Thai international paid dividends as she came yet again from behind, against the tiring David Cox, to earn a win that was richly deserved.

Back into the club house for the presentation and a big thank you to our main sponsor, Nick who handed out the trophies and also pizza vouchers to all who had taken part.


Paweena’s are the cup kings

Jomtien Pool League - Knockout Cup

The Jomtien Pool League concluded its 2005 season with a ‘Knockout Cup’ competition. Held over four weeks, it was a sudden death format with the losers from each round competing for minor trophies. Given the final League standings, results from the first round of the main event were more or less predictable - the surprise being League runners-up, Simple Simon going down 6-3 at home to Lucky Bar.

Paweena’s celebrate their cup success

In round two, San Snack Bar who had looked invincible during the regular season, were brought back down to earth with a 7-2 trouncing away at Country Club. Meanwhile Paweena’s, defeated in round one and making the most of being back in the main draw as lucky losers, took a place in the semi-finals with an against the odds 5-4 win at Lucky Bar. The semi-finals had Moonshine and Paweena’s seeing off their visitors, Country Club and Rose & Thistle 5-4 and 7-2 respectively. Paweena’s played host to Moonshine in the Cup final and the home team had the trophy securely on the shelf after the singles were completed.

In the minor competitions: the Cup first round losers played off, with Woaw’s Pub at home getting the better of Simple Simon 5-4. The second round losers final saw Lucky Bar making the most of their home advantage with a hard fought 5-4 win against Bolaget and in a play off between the beaten Cup semi-finalists, Country Club took the trophy with a 5-4 result at Rose & Thistle - the only away win of the finals.

Season six of the Jomtien Pool League kicks off on October 20 with some new faces bringing participation up to 16 teams. Match of the day in week one will be between current League Champions, San Snack Bar and Knockout Cup Champions Paweena’s with SSB having the home advantage.


The Irish steal the glory

IPGC golf from The Haven

Mon 10 Oct
Phoenix - Mountain/Lakes, Stableford

1st Jerry Hough 37 - c/b 22
2nd Roar Berger 37 - c/b 18
3rd Dave Childs 37 - c/b 17
4th Sunny Khanna 34 - c/b 22
5th Tom Noonan 34 - c/b 16

Another good turnout heralded the approaching high season and once again this popular venue showed it’s teeth, with just three players shooting their handicap and eleven others failing to score 30 points! Not surprising then that standard scratch should go to 75! OK, the greens were unusually slow and the grass on the fairways unusually long but it is the rainy season and heavy rains have soaked the course every afternoon. Still, the day remained bright and dry for all and Frenchman, Jerry Hough shot a super round for his 37 points in his very first outing with the Haven, holding off Roar and Dave on count-back. In the 2’s competition, Frank Boyd took division 1 honours with the only ‘2’ of the day. Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston, the resident PGA professional, welcomed Jerry Hough, Peter Blok & Tom Noonan and welcomed back Brian Kelly & Sunny Khanna.

Wed 12 Oct
Crystal Bay B/C, Stableford

1st Mikael Jansson 36 - c/b 20
2nd Nhawee Stockman 36 - c/b 19
3rd Yasuo Suzuki 35 - c/b 20
4th Roy Thornton 35 - c/b 19
5th Barry Winton 34

Once again a large turnout of 25 golfers left the Haven to do battle on the beautiful Crystal Bay layout and even Magellan managed to find the course without getting lost! The day was hot but breezy and the rain gods were thankfully at peace. Yet again, scores were poor with just Mikael and Nhawee shooting their handicaps, though Yasuo & Roy were close on their heels. As on Monday, there were no ‘2’s recorded in division two but on the tricky greens (slow and sanded on ‘B’, fast and true on ‘C’), sharpshooters; Takeshi Hakozaki, Norman Isherwood & Suzi Lawton shared the pot in division 1. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston welcomed back Yasuo Suzuki, Ole Stamnes, Dave Spendley & Phillipe Berra.

Fri 14 Oct
Eastern Star, Stableford

Division 1 (0 -15)
1st Mark O’Laughlan 42
2nd Glyn Nicholas 36
3rd Trevor Schirmer 32
Division 2 (16plus)
1st Tom Noonan 37 - c/b 23
2nd Thomas Baigent 37 - c/b 20
3rd Brian Kelly 34

Despite the gloomy start to the day, the 30 golfers who left the Haven for brighter climes down at Ban Chang were well rewarded by a beautiful day’s golf in sunny conditions. Heading the Irish contingent, Mark O’Laughlan shot a magnificent 71 gross to net him 42 points off his 5 handicap, easily leaving all and sundry in his wake. To put Mark’s superb effort into some perspective, the other seven single handicappers playing on the day all failed to beat 30 points! Fellow countryman, Tom Noonan took division 2 honours just holding off Kiwi, Thomas Baigent on count-back with Brian O’Kelly, (nursing a bad back and touch of tendonitis) sliding onto the podium in third. A solid round by Magellan in Division 1 saw him finish firmly in second with Trevor beating off Yasuo, Suzi and Al on count-back for third. Tim Guidera (division 1), shot the only ‘2’ of the day to make it a clean sweep for the Irish! So, no ‘2’s recorded in the second division all week. Don’t miss the next episode...will the prize be claimed...and by whom? Finally, the rain gods could wait no longer and the heavens opened just in time to catch the last two groups on the 18th. The storm continued unabated for over two hours and it made for a slow journey back to a flooded Pattaya. It was so bad that Richard couldn’t find a jet-ski taxi to get to the Haven and it was left to Stephen to welcome Jim Scully, Pat Hanafin, T J Conby, Mark O’Laughlan, Tim Guidera & Thomas Baigent and also to welcome back Alan Keith.


Shenanigans at Green Valley

October 11 was Shenanigans Very Friendly Golf Society fortnightly outing with a pair’s better ball competition at Green Valley. As it transpired, the real shenanigans were provided by the golf course management decision to renumber the holes one more time but failing to create score cards matching the new layout. The good news from this latest revision is that the dreaded number 1 hole now features after a bit of a warm up with four holes under one’s belt

Phllip Berra (left) and Michael Brett (center) winners Shenanigans Very Friendly Golf Society pair’s better ball receive their prizes from Izzy Freedman (right).

Once the confusion was adjusted all went along smoothly. The golf course was in very fine condition as we always expect and some good scores were posted as the weather was very cooperative.

Back at Shenanigans the first attraction was Sonny’s daily special, which on Tuesdays is, soup followed by a very fine pork chop dinner all for the princely sum of 150 baht. Many players were seen tucking into this and Izzy Freedman was helping all along with pints beer from the keg he won at the Irish Open last month.

The winning team for the day was the pairing of Philippe Berra and Michael Brett with 45 points followed by Ian Warwick and Larry Willett posting 43 points. In third place with 42 was the ever-smiling Beth Lil with husband Ken. Near pins were won by Scott Cosban and Shenanigans very own Simon Dutton.

The next outing will be at Eastern Star with a pair’s combined Stableford competition on the menu. Sign up with Simon at Shenanigans.


K4 will be shopping for a gold ensemble

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, October 9
Green Valley - White Tees Monthly Medal

1st A Flight: Ian Ashenden, net 71
2nd A Flight: Dave Palmer, net 72
3rd A Flight: Rick Sharp, net 72
1st B Flight: Pete Stonebridge, net 72
2nd B Flight: Gary Emmett, net 72
3rd B Flight: Dave Porter, net 74
1st C Flight: Ken Kutzing, net 68 - Monthly Medal Winner
2nd C Flight: Roger Koehler, net 69
3rd C Flight: Jez Lees, net 71
NP’s: #9 Seamus Cotter; #12 Don Lehmer; #16 Mark Wood
2’s: Rick Sharp; Nick Strasshine, Darren Smith; Gary Emmett; Don Lehmer; John Ginnane; Sugar Ray Handford

It was a fine day for the Zinger as he etched his name on the 2005 Wall of Shame with a Monthly Medal and C Flight winning gross 89, net 68. One can only muse over how resplendent are resident sartorial wonder will be when he “suits up” for the year-end Gold Medal Competition. It could make Elvis blush, even in his grave. Kenny’s effort held the less attractive half of the Koehler household at bay and relegated to the silver in C. The Principal rounded out the third flight.

Newly returned teaching pro and zero handicapper, Ian Ashenden, here but for a month or so, ruled A Flight with a superlative one under par gross/net 71. David Palmer, an ol’ dog racer from Down-under and a fella who this scribe first came to Pattaya with some six years ago, was knocked back to second due to a clerical error on his scorecard. Shades of Tommy Aaron and Roberto Di Vizenso. In a battle of capable veterans, The Hermit out counted Flipper on the inward nine for the last A Flight step.

The Schoolmaster, taking a cue from his perennial Sunday playing partner, The Hermit, used a count back to edge Gary Emmett for the top rung in the interim Flight. Dave Porter, using the Queen’s English did similarly to fellow Brit and Guru of Green Valley, Bob Lindborg.

Tuesday, October 11
St. Andrews 2000
Gold or White Tees,
Green Valley-White Tees, Stableford

1st St. Andy’s Gold Flight: John Pratt, 32 points
2nd St. Andy’s Gold Flight: Ian Ashenden, 32 points
1st St. Andy’s White Flight: Barry Rothberg, 35 points
1st Green Valley Flight: Kenny Kutzing, 38 points
2nd Green Valley Flight: Serge Streaten, 37 points
2’s: St. Andy’s Gold: Ian Ashenden; Green Valley: Vic Hester (2), David Snell, Gary Blackburne

It was close to everybody having their own Flight as the Golf Committee conspired to offer the constituency alternate courses, Green Valley and St. Andrews 2000, along with alternate tees on the latter. The big bombers took on the gold and the setup showed its teeth as John Pratt bested ‘The Pro from Dover’ (or at least on the same island) on count back, to take the St. Andy’s Gold. Meanwhile, Barry Rothberg slid in there with an honest 35 points to take the White top spot.

The more conservative lot left over at old friend Green Valley were led by our title boy K4, obviously still on his fuchsia (K4 would be offended if you called it purple) cloud, and his 38 points with Le Monsieur but a point to the derriere.

Kudos goes to The Inflictor for his two 2’s on the day.

Wednesday, October 12
Khao Kheow A/B - Yellow or White Tees, Stableford

1st Yellow A Flight: Brent Merron, 43 points
2nd Yellow A Flight: Graham Johnson, 38 points
1st Yellow B Flight: Cesar Casillas, 38 points
2nd Yellow B Flight: Dave Porter, 34 points
1st White Flight: Barry Rothberg, 39 points
Near Pins: #B8 Yellow: Graham Johnson; #B8 White: Ken Kutzing
2’s Yellows: Brent Merron, Graham Johnson, Rick Sharp, Dave Tanner, Phil Grove, Cesar Casillas, Sunny Khanna

Brent Merron, caddy to many of the magnates of American Industry during the low season, returned to the Land of Vertical Smiles with a magnificent 43 points off his ten handicap on the testing Yellow teed A and B courses. That was five clear of G-r-a-h-a-m J-o-h-n-s-o-n, the silver holder in the top Flight.

Newcomer Cesar Casillas showed his mettle as he netted 38 points to clear his Yellow tee, B Flight podium mate, Dave Porter by four points. Barry Rothberg, fast becoming the clean-up man, won his second single place Flight of the week off the Whites.

Friday, October 14
Crystal Bay - White Tees,
2-Man Scramble Stroke/Medal

1st: Colin Davis & Ray Dell, net 57.0
2nd: Brent Merron & Pat Manley, net 58.7
3rd: Paul O’Leary & Trevor Turner, net 58.9

2s: Davis/Dell (2); Sharp/Porter; Campbell/Riley; Johnson/Mitchell (2); Snell/Lehmer (2); Perzell/Kelly; Cameron/Wood; Koehler/Holden; Buckingham/Samuel

The lads took a relaxing day off as they played beautiful Crystal Bay in a 2-man scramble. This Scribe was going to be PC and term the comp a 2-person Scramble but no lasses showed up. Maybe they new that the Donkey and “the Farmer in the Dell” were going to go low, in fact 1.7 strokes clear of the field. The two caddies, Brent and mate Tim Manley, were tough but paled next to the Donkey/Farmer duet. Two newcomers, Paul O’Leary and Trevor Turner, made their presence felt as they took the bronze on the day. A host of twos were lodged and loose pocket change was carted off by many.


Wednesday Quiz League


Brian shows good form

P.S.C. golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday October 11 Phoenix, Stableford

The morning dawned brightly as the sleepy golfers gathered to partake of one of Bert’s fine breakfasts and get ready for the trip to Phoenix. Not far as it happens but just enough to get the juices flowing. These days, the ‘nines’ at Phoenix are starting to pose a real challenge but for this event, the weather was fine, the course was dry and in excellent condition and the greens were just about perfect. So it turned out to be a pleasant walk around Mountain and Lakes, which is just as it should be. Later, with the scores coming in thick and fast, it was apparent that we had had a good day.

Brian Noguer (right) – winner at Phoenix

Back at Bert’s, he had been busy and individual ‘Chicken and Chips’ were served to all the players to pass the time until Bob finished his major calculations and declared the winners.

The honours on this day went to Brian Noguer, playing well at the moment, ahead of another in form man, Steve Hamsted. Winners dealt with we saw the night come and go.

T.T.F.N.
Winner:
Brian Noguer, Runner Up: Steve Hamsted
Near Pin: Brian Noguer, Brendan Devlin, Bob Noble, Nigel Cannon, Bob Rasmussen, John Christie
Long Put: Andy Evans, John Christie, Nick Nicholas, Allan Gummer


VFW Post 9876 & Friends move up and are now tied for first place

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 Bowlers - Bill Key, Mio, Bill Gibson, Tue & Teuvo

Shenanigans got knocked out of first place and are now in third after losing three points to VFW Post 9876 who are now tied for first. Friends moved into a tie for first as they took all four points from Three Sisters. Domicil won four points from House of the Golden Coin and Grape Vine took four from Mai’s Thai Restaurant. Cafe Kronborg beat Brother D and came away with three points Cafe Ole did the same to Jack & Tar. Scores were not very good on this day as the lanes were not in very good condition as the cleaning and oiling machine has been sent to Bangkok for use by one of the other bowling fixtures.

Best bowlers of the day were:
Mio, House of the Golden Coin: games of 192, 172, 206 - 570 series
Tue, VFW Post 9876: 203 game - 556 series
Bill Key, Domicil: 215 game - 545 series
Teuvo, Friends: 201 game - 541 series


The Beautiful Game?: Baggies Serve up humble pie

Riz Taylor

In another week packed to overflowing with both international and domestic football, the significance of West Bromwich Albion’s 2-1 win over Arsenal last Saturday was very nearly swept under the carpet. Three points are always welcome for a side whose sole aim at the start of the season was to remain in the Premiership, of course, and a first win in six games elevated the Baggies from the bottom three into the relative safety of fourteenth place. A temporary reprieve from the pressure, perhaps, but a nonetheless deserved one for Bryan Robson’s hard working side.

By contrast, for Arsenal this defeat was surely the final nail in the coffin for the club’s aspirations of hunting down Chelsea to reclaim the Premiership title from their upstart London neighbours. To make such a statement in October is staggering, but with just thirteen points from eight games the Gunners are in desperate trouble. The side that was untouchable a mere eighteen months ago will now be looking towards cup football if they’re to bring silverware back to Highbury in their final season at the famous old ground.

In addition to these headaches Thierry Henry’s refusal to begin negotiations on a new contract until the end of the season brings unwanted worries to Arsene Wenger and gives the green light to Barcelona to step up their interest in the French striker. With Tottenham currently outgunning the Gunners things are looking miserable for Arsenal at present.

The 2-1 win for West Brom, thanks to goals from Darren Carter and former Arsenal man Nwanko Kanu, will also have seen a few cornflakes spluttered at the home of football’s most senior man Sepp Blatter. The 69-year-old Swiss, who of course is the president of football’s world governing body FIFA, alleged in a recent interview that a West Brom official had confessed to him that the Baggies play weakened sides against the bigger clubs “because they know they are going to lose”.

Blatter has been no stranger to controversy during his time in football’s hot-seat. This is the man who suggested that the World Cup should be played every two years, that the game should be cut into four quarters and the goals be made larger to make bigger scorelines, and most famously that women’s shorts be made tighter to attract more interest in ladies’ soccer.

Personally I’m all in favour of one of those suggestions - after all what red-blooded male wouldn’t want to see bigger goalposts - but West Bromwich Albion were mightily unimpressed by the allegation of fielding a weakened eleven against Chelsea prior to an important Midlands derby against Birmingham in August. “We are astonished and totally mystified by Mr Blatter’s remarks,” said a club spokesman. “We utterly refute what Mr Blatter suggests,” he continued. “We can categorically state that no Albion official has spoken to Mr Blatter this year - let alone in the past month....The management of the club field what they consider to be their strongest available side for every game - and will continue to do so. As always, this will be the case when the team plays against Arsenal on Saturday.”

And so it proved as West Brom held out a desperate Arsenal onslaught to claim the win. Whilst the goal scorers took the headlines it was on-loan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland who kept Arsenal at bay with a string of superb saves, doing his chances of making England’s World Cup squad no harm in the process. Meanwhile the football world awaits a comment from Mr. Blatter, the soccer supremo who stumbles from one controversy to another.

Derby Day on Sunday

You have to love derby matches. For sheer passion, noise, blood-and-thunder tackles and the chance of a red card or two, derbies simply cannot be beaten but it’s often said that the quality of the football suffers during such an atmosphere. This weekend serves up the return of the North East derby as Newcastle takes on Sunderland at St. James’ Park on Sunday, and given the form of the two clubs it could be argued that quality was never on the menu in the first place!

Sunderland will be hoping to welcome back former France under-21 international Christian Bassila into the midfield after a hamstring injury, whilst Newcastle will want to bounce back from a disappointing defeat away at Wigan Athletic last weekend. The situation of both sides suggests a real footballing scrap ahead.

If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the game, which kicks off around 7:30 Pattaya time, why not try ‘Stereo’ on Soi Buakhow (near the corner of Soi Diana Inn). Owners Keith and Andy are Sunderland and Newcastle fans respectively, and even if the game itself becomes boring you can turn your attentions to watch the long-lasting friendship of these two football mad northerners gradually ebb away over a 90 minute period. A sly mention of The Beautiful Game might also see you get a discounted drink or two... perhaps.

Wome is me

Last week I mentioned Pierre Wome, the Cameroon international who hit the post with an injury-time penalty against Egypt that denied his country a place in the World Cup finals. If Wome were an Englishman he’d probably by busy signing up for a pizza advert alongside other famously unsuccessful spot-kick takers such as Gareth Southgate, Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle.

Not so in Cameroon. After waiting two hours for the army to chase away an angry mob of supporters the unfortunate Pierre escaped, only to discover that both the family home and his girlfriend’s salon in Yaounde had been vandalized along with his Mercedes. Wome was later smuggled out of the country by undercover police the following day, and might have to brace himself for a few less Christmas cards from his native country this year.


‘Plath’ of glory

P.S.C. golf from the Cafe Kronborg

Monday October 10 Bangpakong Riverside, Stableford

The pristine Bangpakong Riverside Country Club was host to a Stableford competition in two Flights, A Flight 0 to 15 and B Flight 16 and above. Due to the wet weather, several rules for the day were decided on before leaving Pattaya but on arrival at the course, we found it very well presented with no wet spots anywhere. The course played long however, due to some tee boxes being back and the presence of a stiff breeze.

Bill Plath took the honours at Phoenix

Steve Hamsted took the A Flight with 40 points beating Marty Allred into second place on count-back. Ted Morris was in third place, beating Kristian Helgason also on count-back, with both players having 38 points. Ebrahim took the B Flight, 36 points on a count-back over Dick Warborg in second, whilst Tournament Director Dave Richardson took third with 35 points, beating Jimmy Flanagan on another count-back.

Near Pins: #7 - Kris Helgasson, #16 - Dave Thomas, #13 - Ebrahim

Thursday October 13 Phoenix, Stroke

The test for the day was to be the Mountain and Lake ‘nines’. This is not the easiest 18 holes as the Lakes always seem to find the weakness in any persons game, whilst the Mountains is the longest nine. Especially these days, you need to keep your wits about you when playing this course as it gets progressively more difficult. On the day, the weather was hot and the course was in its normal fine condition so we expected some fine rounds. In the event, we only had one round that beat par but that round demolished it and I feel a handicap cut coming on.

In the A Flight the winner was Bill Plath with a net 64. Bill’s handicap has just gone out but as he said, this was his best round of the year and one can never tell when it is going to come. Every dog has its day. Second was Brian Noguer on count-back over Tony Scambler with net 72’s but they were back in the dust. The B Flight also showed average scores with Graham Buckingham winning with a net 73, Gene Rooney coming second with a net 74 and Ebrahim in third with a net 75. The day however belonged to Bill Plath for what was a really fine round.

T.T.F.N.


The Square Ring

by Howie Reed

It appears that Wethya Sakmuangklaeng (79-4, 50 KOs) has finally recovered in full from his whipping at the hands of Manny Pacquiao back in 2001. Seeing as he’s gone 22-0 that just might be considered an understatement. Yasuo Kunimi at 16-7 wasn’t the best opponent in the world but did provide a test of Wethya’s will and determination. The easy decision may indicate a step up in the near future. A more significant contest took place in Japan last week. “WBC flyweight champ Pongsaklek Wonjongkam Kratindaeng-gym (58-2, 31 KOs), made it 12 title defenses in a row when he battered and bloodied a game Daisuke Naito (27-1-2 9n to retiring at 2:38 of the 7th stanza.” Those are the words written by Asia’s best boxing writer Joe Koisumi. When I don’t actually view a fight in Asia the best on site eyes belong to Joe Koisumi. Joe K was recently honored to have been given the floor for a major address at the recently concluded WBC Convention in Spain. “I have been enthusiastically watching fights in Japan for almost 50 years since my childhood. I have been a correspondent of The Ring Magazine for 41 years since 1964. I have been a TV commentator for 26 years, and am now serving as the commentator of WOWOW cable TV, which regularly shows two or three world title bouts all over the world every week. I have been a collector of boxing films, watching fights of Jim Corbett through Floyd Mayweather. Also, I have been working the corner for some 40 years as manager, trainer or cut-man.” Now like the EF Hutton ad, “When he talks everyone listens.” While some would be over the moon with Pongsaklek’s performance Joe raises the red flag. “This reporter had expected Pongsaklek to have an advantage over WBC interim titlist Jorge Arce in case of a WBC unification bout, but should the Thai meet Travieso in such a poor condition as tonight, yours truly may have to reverse my opinion. Pongsaklek may have been a little too overconfident in this rematch as he had previously iced Naito just 34 seconds into the opening session in Thailand in 2002. Anyway, Naito fought well by showing his heart, and it lasted longer than 34 seconds.” Well usually I listen. Have a slight problem here. I have no idea who “Travieso” is nor can I find is record in any book. In regard to lasting more than the 34 seconds of the first fight, that would be a dubious honor.

Regardless I would like to borrow from Mr. Koisuni’s speech before the WBC Convention: “As you may know, Japan is one of the most active countries in terms of boxing promotions, along with the United States, Germany, and England. But it might be true that boxing becomes less and less popular among common people in Japan. I wonder why boxing of today is not loved as much as before. The root cause may be, in part, due to the current 10-point must system, and its application. In the good old days, boxing was a much easier sport for the general public to understand. Previously, a hard round to judge was scored 10-10. It meant that without attacking effectively you couldn’t win a round. You couldn’t win a point without attacking positively. Therefore, boxing was more aggressive and more entertaining. There were more spectacular knockouts than today. Lately, there has been a strong tendency that even extremely close rounds are forced to be given to one of the boxers. That has produced more runners or jabbers than punchers.” Every boxing writer in world is trying to either figure out why boxing is not as popular as it use to be or coming up with gimmicks that will reverse the direction the sport is heading. Maybe just instructing judges to score an even round even if it is the “real deal.” “The general public cannot distinguish the closest round to be given either. After a close fight, the crowd becomes frustrated to hear the official verdict. Sometimes the decision is against the crowd’s impression confuses the audience. The crowd comes to the boxing arena to feel catharsis and excitement, but boxing sometimes leaves them with frustration over a controversial decision. TV watchers also sometimes get stunned and surprised at the decision. Why? The decision was against their impression of who the winner was. People say, “Boxing is difficult.”

Of course Joe hits the nail on the head because boxing is not difficult. The object is to get in the ring and beat the heck out of the others guy (or gal). Those that like to live in the “gray area” or introduce nuances into boxing do the sport a great disservice. Anyone that enjoys watching the many talented dancers that perform on the stages and poles at the various entertainment venues along the Rivera of Asia (that would be Pattaya) realize that classical training is of little importance. “If it looks good, it must be. I’d bet my baht on it.” Joe ends his speech with, “There was a movie titled “Back to the Future.” But I suggest, “Back to the past” in the scoring. By permitting more 10-10 rounds, we can have a more clear winner. We can eliminate controversial decisions. I’m sure that it will help the resurgence of boxing’s popularity among the crowd.” Worth a try. I know that the Contenders was very popular on the beach. Well, while NBC has cancelled the program ESPN will bring it back for another season. To hype the new show last’s year’s contenders all were in action last week on ESPN. The search of new talent will take place over the next months at different cities in the USA. On the other side of the coin is the dreadful match up of WBC jr welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. against Sharmba Mitchll on November 19. Mitchell has got to be like the Energizer Bunny. He just keeps going and just keeps fighting for titles. Anyone forget how Kostya Tszyu dismantled him last November? Mayweather jr. should have no problem as he again fights someone that has no chance. That’s Jr’s. MO. The fights schedules for the Rose Garden in Portland Oregon USA, which fits right in with a recent court decision in that state. It was ruled that “sex in public” was an expression of free speech. The Mayweather jr.-Mitchell fits. It’s in public and it will be a “*******disgrace.”

Don’t miss next weeks column as The Square Ring will preview maybe four title bouts promoted by Oscar DeLaHoya from Tucson Arizona. Maybe four? Here’s the deal the first three are slam-dunks. Ratananchai Sor Vorapin 65-8 vs. Jhonny Gonzalez 30-4 (WBO Bantam Belt), Fernando Montiel 31-1-1 vs. Pramunansak Phosawan 29-0-1 (WBO jr. Bantam belt) and Hugo Cararez 21-3-1 vs. Kaichon Sor Vorapin 16-7 ( WBO jr. Fly title). The 4th? Maybe Daniel Ponce de Leon 26-1 vs. Sod Looknongyangtoy 25-0 ( WBO jr. Feather title). We know they’re scheduled to meet, we know it’s the same time frame as the other three fights, we know it’s promoted by Oscar and we know it’s a WBO title fight. So we suspect it’s been added to the card. What do we know for sure? Time for a beverage.


The day that the rain came down

The 53rd PSC Monthly Tournament

The day started well. Check in was the usual smooth operation with Bernie Tuppin in full flow at registration. One hundred and twenty golfers turned out including a large influx from Scandinavia, prompting Alan Pearce to ask who was left to look after the reindeers. The sun tried hard to shine through the clouds but then Chris John, the golf chairman threw a spanner in the works. He declared halfway through the front nine that it looked as though the weather would hold. Michael Fish eat your heart out! The heavens opened and all hell broke loose. At the turn, Chris ran into the starter, a dead ringer for Arthur Scargill on a bad day. He insisted on putting in anybody who wanted a game in the middle of the competition, including one gentleman who barely made it over the ditch on hole number one and failed to reach the ladies tee on hole number two. He played like old Tom Morris - well he has been dead for some time! Later on, this group decided to shelter from the rain until of course somebody came up behind them, at which point they started to play again. Finally they gave up and we then came across the ‘six-ball’, which old Tom had kindly let in. After that the rain began in earnest and all the late starters were in serious danger of drowning let alone not finishing. That is all apart from Rolf Ahlstrom, who managed to shoot 45 stable ford points to win the D flight, much to the stunned amazement of all concerned. Soon, the lightning began to get serious and everybody had to have eyes in the back of their heads in case Ian Edwards came up behind doing his Michael Schumacher impression in his golf cart. The final straw came when a green keeper tried to change the pin position on hole number eighteen whilst the competition was still running. That hole of course being one designated for the long putt competition.

Chris John, PSC Golf Chairman with all the winners.

Back in the clubhouse all the good ol’ boys were champing at the bit to get to Ban Chang for something delicious. Is the food really that good down there? Those Willett boys didn’t get that big by being fussy eaters surely? Elsewhere, there were of course tales of disaster in abundance. Gordon McKnight had so many scratches on his back nine that we are thinking of renaming him Mr. Blobby. This month, David Johnson managed to solve the problem of which nearest the pin sheet he should put his name on by not putting it on any of the sheets - wise move David. Meanwhile, Ian Warwick took the A flight with a net 67, whilst Bob Benda returned to form to win the B flight with a similar score. David Childs took C flight with a steady 36 points and Moon Schwulera won the ladies division with 81 off the stick.

At the presentation, Chris John thanked all the sponsors and the organizing team apart from Tony Oakes - forgotten for the second month in a row. He did, however manage to mention Derek Brook who was in fact a no show due to the bad weather in Pattaya. Who would be golf chairman on such a day? I haven’t had so much fun since the day I called my late mother in law a dog instead of mother in my best ‘fluent’ Thai... and received a clip round the ear from the wife for my pains. Still as George Formby used to say - “turned out nice again!” Roll on next month and Noble Place. (CJ)

Results:
A flight
Low gross: Ian Warwick, net 67
Winner: Dennis Willett, net 68
Runner up: Terry Morris, net 69
B flight
Low gross: Bob Benda,net 67
Winner: Ian Colvill, 87 net 69
Runner up: Gene Rooney, net 70
C flight
Winner: David Childs, 36 points
Runner up: Wayne Koch, 35points
3rd Place: Bob Short, 34 points
D flight
Winner: Rolf Ahlstrom, 45 points
Runner up: Nigel Canon, 39 points
3rd Place: Jim Wooler, 36 points
Ladies
Winner: Moon Schwulera, 39 points
Runner up: Beth Lill, 37 points
3rd place: Nattaporn Thongpen, 32 points
Technicals
Nearest the pin: Ryan Stafford, Bengt Borg, Mikael Anderson, Christer Nilstron, Sture Briseholm, Roger Johanssen, Kristinn Helgason, Ronny Walfridson, Roy Pimblett, Arthur Bailey, Terry Phur, Chris John, Rick Monaghan, Andy Spence, Keith Avery, Moon Schwulera (2), Nattaporn Thongpen

Long Drives: Dennis Willett, Larry Willett, David Childs, Rick Monaghan, Nattaporn Thongpen

Long Putts: Kristinn Helgeson, Mikael Anderson, Gerry Carpenter, Matt Browne


Al Khalifa crowned Formula BMW Asia Champion in Shanghai

Shanghai, China - Bahrain’s Salman Al Khalifa (Team E-Rain) clinched the 2005 Formula BMW Asia Driver Championship after a season which saw him take six wins and seven pole positions. The 24-year-old needed just two points going in to the final round and his 5th place finish in the 10-lap race was enough to clinch the title.

Michael Tony Patrizi, Armaan Ebrahim and Aaron Lim Say Joon take their place on the podium after taking out the top three spots in round 14 of the Formula BMW Asia in Shanghai last weekend. Their wins were not enough to dislodge Salman Al Khalifa from being crowned series champion.

First across the line in the eventful race was BMW Junior Michael Patrizi (AUS/Team Meritus), who clinched the Rookie Cup title in the process, while fellow Junior and pole-sitter Armaan Ebrahim (IND/Team E-Rain) was second, with Aaron Lim (MAS/Minardi Team Asia) taking the final podium position.

Al Khalifa finished the season on 172 points, 15 ahead of Patrizi, while Hamed Al Fardan’s (BAH/Team Meritus) ill-luck in the final round meant he finished 3rd on the leaderboard with 148. In the Rookie Cup, Patrizi’s win today put him 13 points clear of nearest challenger Charlie-Ro Charlez (MAS/Team Meritus), while Ebrahim was 3rd.

In the race, winner of Round 13, Al Fardan got a blinding start off the grid from 3rd to take the lead, with Patrizi going in to second, and from then on the pair embarked in a furious chase, coming together at one point with both sustaining damage. Behind them, Ebrahim was in a battle of his own with Charlie-Ro Charlez (MAS/Team Meritus), while Al Khalifa was fighting his instinct to move through the field, and stayed back in 7th - and out of trouble.

After Charlez dropped back to 6th, Ebrahim concentrated on closing in on the leaders, but wasn’t able to challenge by the chequered flag. However, in keeping with a season which has been high on drama throughout, the final lap saw Al Fardan’s chances dashed by a puncture which put him down to 9th place. Patrizi then went through to take the win followed home by Ebrahim and Lim.

All the Formula BMW Asia Drivers acquitted themselves well in front of the Formula 1 fraternity, producing exciting - yet mature - racing which was a credit to Asian motorsport.

Al Khalifa had fought his instincts superbly, and was relieved and delighted to have clinched the title he has been working towards all year: “There’s a time you have to be smart and not greedy (for wins). It’s a very difficult thing to do, but I just brought myself down and am glad it all worked out. It was a very advanced field this year and we were very equal, which is why the championship went down to the wire. I’m grateful to all the other drivers for being so hungry, which really kept me on top.”

After two seasons in Formula BMW Asia, Al Khalifa is looking to take the next step in his motorsport career with a move next season to either the British or Euroseries Formula 3 championships.

BMW Motorsport Director, Mario Theissen: “It was an exciting 2005 Formula BMW Asia season. Congratulations to the champion, Salman Al Khalifa. I am looking forward to seeing him at the Formula BMW World Final in Bahrain in December!”

In the Team Classification, it was Team Meritus who once again triumphed with 414 points, while Al Khalifa’s Team E-Rain was runner up on 339.

Formula BMW Asia Final Points Standings.

1.Salman Al Khalifa (BAH/Team E-Rain) 172 points, 2. Michael Patrizi (AUS/Team Meritus) 157 points, 3. Hamed Al Fardan (BAH/Team Meritus) 148, 4. Charlie-Ro Charlez (MAS/Team Meritus) 140 points, 5.Armaan Ebrahim (IND/Team E-Rain) 129 points, 6.Robert Boughey (THA/Team Meritus) 94 points, 7.An Suk-Won (KOR/Team E-Rain) 90 points, 8.Aaron Lim (MAS/Minardi Team Asia) 80 points, 9.Jonathan Chan (HKG/Minardi Team Asia) 41 points,10. Mitsunobu Endo (JPN/Team Meritus) 27 points, 11. Wang Jian-Wei (CHN/Ao’s Racing Team) 19 points, 12. Dejan de Zoysa (SRI/Minardi Team Asia) 17 points.