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.
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