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TQ throws a big party at 2005 Masters
The 12th Annual TQ Masters
With the local golf calendar filling up with “Majors”,
the TQ continued its legacy as one of Pattaya’s oldest golfing traditions
and certainly as one of its funniest days out. The day began with Bloody
Ceasars, with the critical Clamato mixer provided by Joe Banks, the owner of
Soi 13’s newly completed Whitehouse Condotel. With TQ Joe, Terry, Wild
Bill and Bob working the beer carts, accompanied by some of the nicest gals
to ply the poles, everyone was assured of remaining hydrated throughout the
event. It is, of course, a delicate process mixing golf with spirits and Boy
George provided a poster child view of what can happen when those scales
becoming tipped towards the latter.
 Keith
Avery (centre) proudly dons the TQ Masters Green Jacket after receiving it
from TQ co-owner, Bob Finch and the lovely Ann.
The field looked resplendent in their complimentary TQ
t-shirts and hats as they took on the capable test of Robert Trent Jones
Jr.’s Eastern Star Resort. The course was well presented and the staff
showed its experience in hosting Pattaya’s majors as they made the day go
easily and smoothly for all who attended. Play was accomplished in a seldom
seen four and one-half hours for most of the field, a real credit to all the
players on a difficult course. Even the rains held off with only the last
couple of foursomes choosing to “start the post match function” rather
than wait out the brief cloudburst.
 Ploy
Thongpen (centre) looks wonderful in her Pink Jacket after winning the top
ladies prize in this year’s TQ Masters.
A strong representation returned to the TQ for a 4 hour
‘Happy Hour’ and Bjarne’s sumptuous BBQ ox leg and the fun just
continued thereafter. If there was anything missing on the day, it was the
presence of 2004 Champion Dr. Doom to present the coveted ‘Green Jacket’
to his 2005 successor. Randy was off on his 28-day work rotation. If he had
have been present he would have draped that coat over the shoulders of
affable septuagenarian Keith Avery, who belied his age and recent
performance with a best on the day 43 points.
On the Ladies side of the ledger, a small, but quality
field was headed by Ploy Thongpen and her 34 points, five clear of Banjob
Franklin, the runner-up and wife of the evening’s emcee. Ploy who always
looks resplendent appeared all the more so in the ‘Pink Jacket’ that is
traditionally presented to the women’s winner.
 A
beaming Brian Yates, this year’s low gross winner, enjoys the party
following the TQ Masters presentations.
The second best score on the day, 42 points, belonged to
the Division II Irish visitor, Garrett Walsh who was two points clear of
Mulligan’s Bruce Tollitt and visitor, and force to be reckoned with,
Lindsay Borthwick. Bruce, utilizing the home pitch advantage bested Lindsay
for the 1st runner-up spot
The premier Division I was led by another Irishman, Mark
O’Loughlin, who squeezed 39 points out of his miserly 5 handicap. That
left 2003 Masters Champion Perry McNeely in 1st Runner-up, a count back
ahead of Pattaya old-timer Billy Thompson.
Division III was led by Allistar Cruickshank, who had
practiced on the day’s venue a couple times in the week leading up to the
event and had that work pay off as he broke from the gate with 24 points on
the inward nine, his first nine of the day. He became a bit unraveled when
play slowed for one of the few times on the day, but dug down deep and
brought the Division III winner’s trophy home with 39 points. That left a
count back to sort out the dashing Trevor Carnahoff and old workhorse Bobby
“Scar” Taylor. Trevor had the better of the mathematics but Scar
probably still gave him a kiss on the top of the head.
In amongst the Bloody Cesars and Heinekens, some quality
golf was exhibited by Brian Yates who carded a gross 74 off his 3 handicap
and Mark O’Loughlin who did likewise off his aforementioned 5 handicap.
Brian had the better of the count back to take the hardware. The shot of the
day almost became ‘the expensive shot of the day’ as Lindsay Borthwick
was but an inch shy of a hole-in-one on the sixth. Thank goodness it
didn’t go in as it didn’t appear that anybody needed another drink.
So we button up the ol’ TQ Masters for yet another year but not before
thanks are handed out to Joe, Terry and Wild Bill for their work on a day
that began about 5:30 a.m.; to the girls who helped out at registration and
on the course; to Mike Franklin for his eloquent presentation ceremony and
event scheduling; to Lewiinski’s John Emmerson for assistance in scoring;
to Mike Kelly for filling in back at the ranch; to Tom for putting up with a
room full of golfers; for the staff back at the TQ for working hard in
crowded conditions and to Woody and Bob for continuing their 12 year
commitment to local golf and to a good time that has typified their landmark
local establishment since its inception 27 years ago
Champion: Keith Avery, 43 points;
Division I
Winner: Mark O’Loughlin, 39 points
1st Runner-up: Perry McNeely, 38 points
2nd Runner-up: Billy Thompson, 38 points
Division II
Winner: Garrett Walsh, 42 points
1st Runner-up: Bruce Tolliitt, 40 points
2nd Runner-up: Lindsay Borthwick, 40 points.
Division III
Winner: Allistar Cruickshank, 39 points
1st Runner-up: Trevor Carnahoff, 36 points
2nd Runner-up: Bobby “Scar” Taylor, 36 points
Ladies
Winner: Nattaporn “Ploy” Thongpen, 34 points
1st Runner-up: Banjob Franklin, 29 points.
Low Gross: Brian Yates, gross 74.
Lowest Point Total: Mark Campbell, 16 points
Technical Prizes:
Near Pin: # 3 Keith Avery; # 6 Lindsay Borthwick; # 13 Mark Gorda; # 17 Jeff
North
Long Drives: Divison I): Jim Brackett; Division II: Scott Cosban; Division
III: Peter Guasta.
10 countries feature in top positions at the GMTEE.com Laser Nationals
By Peter Cummins
Racing off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club in the past three
days, 10 different nationalities took the first 10 places in the
just-finished GMTEE, COM 2005 Laser National Championships of Thailand. Of
course, that is also counting Royal Varuna sailing coach, Joshua Phillips
from a ‘special country’ - Tasmania!
All the
winners at the GMTEE.COM Laser Nationals pose for the press at Royal Varuna
Awards ceremony
In first place, Asian-Pacific Laser champion, Dane Morton
Jokobsen finished the six-race, five-to-count series on eight penalty
points. The next nine were, in order; Royal Thai Navy sailor Porntep
Sookudom (10), USA’s Douglas Morss (18), Thailand/USA’s Kevin Whitcraft
(20), Tasmanian JoshuaPhillips (27), France’s Philippe Narbonne (30), from
Scotland and also the championship organizer, Neil Semple (36),
Switzerland’s Charlie Zbinden (40), Burma’s U-Thiha (42) and Japan’s
Naomichi Hayakawa (49).
In the smaller rigs, the Laser Radial, Thai lady Wikki
Nualkair, on five points, was well clear of Amorn Soontornjanagit (12), with
Swiss lady sailor, Ute Dorfner, third on 15 Points.
In the Laser 4.7 Division, 15-year-old Ruben Menke, on
five points, was well ahead of fellow-Optimist junior, Sebastian Lehmann
(10), who had graduated up to the Laser for the championship and little
lady, 13-year-old Celine Schmit (18).
Principal race officer, Dickie van den Heuvel had
scheduled a total of seven races, fighting shifting, fickle winds to set
good, fair courses. But not even our Dickie could invoke the wind-gods
yesterday, settling for only one race before the wind died and a ferocious
front-end squall deluged the coast. It was perfect timing, as the fleet
sailed back to shore and the security of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club.
The 2005 Laser championships represented the first time
that GMTEE.COM, the up-market Hong Kong-based designer Tee shirt company,
has ventured into sponsoring yacht racing in Thailand and, according to
organizer Neil Semple, it will not be the last.
Other awards were for: the Laser Master’ Category (age
45 - 54), Neil Semple; U Thiha; Grand Masters (55 - 64): Suwan Poopsakul;
Great Grand Masters (65 +):
Charlie Zbinden. (Is Charlie REALLY THAT OLD?)
Ladies Category: 1. Yukiko Hayakawa; 2. Wikki Nualkair.
It was a highly-successful regatta and, with
co-sponsoring by Heineken, the forty participants, a big group of officials
and supporters enjoyed a great weekend of close racing, good camaraderie and
a promise of more good competitions to come.
In fact, later this week, the Asia Optimist Championships, the first such
event to come to Thailand for several years, will open at Royal Varuna, with
an anticipated 100 participants from seventeen Asian-Pacific countries.
Derek proves he’s no ‘mug’ in the monthly medal
PSC golf from the Caf้ Kronborg
Monday 17 October Crystal Bay, Stableford
Crystal Bay was the chosen venue for this Monday’s
challenge for the crew from the Caf้ Kronborg and a goodly turnout of
some thirty two golfers headed up highway three in anticipation of the
battle ahead. This course is almost always in good condition and offers a
thorough examination of anyone’s golfing ability, so all credit to the
eventual winners for producing such good scores on the day.
 Alan
Ewing shot a fine 67 for runner-up spot.
In the ‘B’ flight it was the familiar name of the
amiable Ebrahim yet again at the top of the leader board with a majestic
40pts from Dave Evans (35pts) in second and Lorrina Brinn, obviously
inspired by the recent news that women can now qualify for the Men’s
British Open, taking third place with 33pt.
In the ‘A’ flight it was eight handicapper John Pratt
taking the honors with an excellent 38 pts just edging ‘new resident’
Ted Morris (37pts) into second place with Steve Avery (36 pts) taking third.
Nearest the pins: B4 and A8 John Christie, B6 Maurice
Herberg, A5 Stu Thompson
Thursday October 20
Pattaya CC, Stroke (Monthly Medal)
Times change and so do Golf Courses, so the decision was
made by the Organisers to move the ‘Monthly Mug’ from Siam C.C. to
Pattaya Country Club. The reasons are various but are similar to those aired
by The Three Sisters when they moved their Monday tournament also to Pattaya
Country Club.
As the sheet filled up over the week, it became obvious
that the move was very popular and on the day of the competition, 45 golfers
turned up to test themselves against the course. Not a bad turnout indeed.
The players were met by a smiling Pattaya Country Club staff and a course in
fine condition. Indeed, for the first time in a long time we were able to
start from two tees, with Herbie leading off seven groups on the front 9 and
the golf chairman leading off four groups from the tenth, along with the
pins for their start nine holes. Even better, Tim came up for the day and
saw the groups off, now nothing can go wrong!!!
 A
tired Winner (left) with Bjarne.
Although the course was in excellent condition, a strong
wind was blowing most of the day and it was obvious we were going to have a
tough time. Still, Pattaya fairways are amongst the best around and the
greens fast and true, so lets go.
On the way around, the wind was very noticable and many
found difficulty with the holes that were the most open. However, I saw
something in my four-ball I am not likely to see again when Rick Evans, at
‘Amen Corner’, took 2 on the par three 16th, and 2 on the par four 17th.
Indeed his tee shot on the 16th was inches from the hole, but I was informed
that Bob Pearce had one three inches away from the hole on the 12th; so
close to a couple of free drinks.
Back in the Clubhouse as the results came in, it was
obvious that there would be no ‘Silly’ scores and the early net 67,
posted by the scribe after several weeks of a medically inflicted absence
from golf, would maybe hold up. Slowly the scores trickled in; another net
67 and a few other good scores followed. Tim worked hard.
We always return to the Cafe Kronborg for this
presentation and this one was being classed as the top monthly competition
for many years.
In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Brian Noguer
with a net 69 ahead of Rick Evans in second with a net 70, however, Rick did
shoot a fine gross 33 on the back nine, he never gives up. In third was Paul
Avery with a Net 71 on countback over Ted Morris and Walter Bachli. The B
Flight, 18 up, was won by Alan Ewing with a net 67, just missing the Mug on
count-back. We then had a count-back for second and third on net 68, that
saw Arthur Bailey in second and Dave Millar in Third.
So to the winner of the Mug, and after a long layoff and
little golf of late, the very surprised winner was competition organiser and
scribe, Derek Brook with a net 67. The funny thing about this game is you
just never know what the day is going to bring and sometimes when you least
expect it, the rain stops and the sun comes out.
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: #5 Graham Buckingham, #7 Wayne Koch, #12 Bob Pearce, #16 Paul
Avery
Long Put: #9 Ebrahim, #18 No comment, read above !!
Sports Quiz
Congratulations to Bernard who was first in with the
correct answers last week. For those of you who tried, better luck next time
and in case you were wondering… here they are.
1. Which horse won the Grand National at Aintree this year?
Answer: Hedgehunter
2. Who was the European Ryder Cup captain in 2002?
Answer: Sam Torrence
3. Who won the individual World Speedway Championship in 1980?
Answer: Michael Lee (UK)
This week’s questions are:
1. In Rugby League, who won last year’s World Club Challenge
held at the Mc Alpine Stadium?
2.Where was this year’s Women’s Golf British Open played?
3. In 1965, Keith Peacock became the first ever professional football player
to become a substitute in English football. Which club did he play for?
Jan is ‘the man’ at the Caddy Shack
I.P.G.C. golf with the Caddy Shack
Tuesday 18 October - The golfers from The Caddy Shack
travelled to the lovely course of Mountain Shadow and the lightning fast
greens made good scores very hard to come by. In division two, David Cooper
came 3rd with a net 78, in 2nd place was Bryan Rought with a net 77 but by
one shot, the winner was Yui Bissell with a net 76; this also included an 11
on the notorious par 5. Division one had Paul Smith in 3rd place with level
par, in 2nd place was Al Mcgrory with a one under net 71 but the winner was
Jan Eriksen with a net 70. There were four two’s recorded on the day and
the golfers were Mike Allidi, Paul Smith, Tony Thorne and Les Hall. The
‘Bananas’ were awarded to Peter White for his own worst round for a long
time whilst Mike Allidi won the complimentary Sunday lunch.
 Double
bubbly winner Jan Eriksen.
Thursday October.20 - The Golfers travelled to Eastern
Star to play a stableford competition. The course was in prime condition and
as always the staff and management made us all very welcome. There was only
one division today as most of the golfers from The Caddy Shack are involved
in an Australia versus the rest of the world team Ryder cup Challenge; the
Aussies hold a narrow lead at this time anyway more about that competition
on completion. Back to the Stableford comp, today saw Jan Eriksen with 35
points win the day and the double up at the Caddy Shack. In 2nd came David
Lightfoot with 31 points and Alan Bissel was in 3rd with 30 points. It was
not difficult to find a home for the booby prize of the ‘Bananas’ as
John Hendrie put his card in with 17 points, unlucky John.
The Caddy Shack is situated on the second part of Soi 17 on the same road
as the Harley Bar. Anyone wishing to play golf we leave the bar at 11.00am
for a Midday tee off, we play every Tuesday and Thursday and all are welcome
Four clubs no problem
for Noonan’s lads
Mike Franklin
Pattaya Country Club, Wednesday October 19 - The weather
was fine, the course in good shape with consistent, fast greens and the
welcome return of Tom Noonan’s group, fresh in from the Emerald Isle,
provided the usual, anticipated fine performance of golfers in tune with
their game. In the Jameson’s Pairs scramble, each player was only allowed
four clubs, but it had no adverse effect on their scores with Tom Noonan
and Jimmy Ryan leading the field with a winning gross 74 and net 67.6.
Runners-up were Pat Hanafin and Jim Scully, 7 and 8 handicaps respectively,
scoring a gross par 72 and net 69.
 Mike
Franklin (right) with Jamesons’ winners Jimmy Ryan & Tom Noonan.
Pat Hanafin was also nearest on the par three 12th and
sank the longest first putt on the 9th. Another ‘Noonan lad’, Timmy
Guidera, was nearest on the par three, 5th with Jason Payne saving face for
the home crowd by being longest on the 18th.
The Wednesday Jameson’s special, ‘Irish Chicken
Curry’ was popular and appropriate murmurings of “It is real Irish
chicken” could be softly heard. Newcomers J.P Labrousse, Jarinya Jainsai,
Pat Hanafin, Jim Scully, Mark O’Laughlin, Jim Scully and Timmy Guidera
were duly welcomed and it was a warm welcome back to Jimmy Ryan and Tom
Noonan.
Wednesday, November 2 is the next ‘JIGS’outing, this time to Eastern
Star for a Pairs Better Ball. So come on down to Jameson’s and sign-up!
Wednesday Quiz League
Diana Gold press conference
Scene at
the press conference.
A press conference was held on October 20 to announce The
Diana Gold 2005 golf tournament scheduled to take place on 11 November 2005
at the Eastern Star Resort, Rayong. The conference was presided over by
Chatanan Kunchorn Na Ayuthaya, Director Central Region 3 of the Tourism
Authority of Thailand. Proceeds from the event will be presented to the
Chonburi Youth and Family Court Fund, Banglamung School Education Grant
Fund, Y.W.C.A. Pattaya Sai Yai Rak Project and Sunside Radio’s Tawan Yim
(Sun Smile) Project. Sopin Thappajug, Managing Director of Diana Group said
“This is the 7th year that the event has been held. The objectives this
year are to publicize golf based tourism and present proceeds to social
assistance organizations in Chonburi.
(see below for full registration details)
Phil Kilgour has an ‘Ace’ on 9, 4 or 5?
IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday October 16
Green Valley – White Tees,
Stableford
1st A Flight: Ian Ashenden, 39 points
2nd A Flight: Phil Kilgour, 39 points
3rd A Flight: Brian Holden, 38 points
1st B Flight: Peter Stonebridge, 41 points
2nd B Flight: Jeremy Masse, 37 points
3rd B Flight: Nick Payne, 36 points
1st C Flight: Ray Dell, 42 points
2nd C Flight: Vic Hester, 40 points
3rd C Flight: Derek Reading, 38 points
1st D Flight: Ian Grout, 39 points
2nd D Flight: Sugar Ray Handford, 36 points
3rd D Flight: Ken Kutzing, 35 points
NP’s: #2 Vic Hester; #12 Rick Sharp; #16 Phil Kilgour (hole-in-one)
2’s: Phil Kilgour – Hole in One
If the not the round of the day, at least the shot of the
day belonged to Irishman Phil Kilgour who canned a dodo on the 9th hole of
this week’s configuration of Green Valley. Green Valley has abandoned, for
at least the next 10 minutes, the concept that not only provided two tee
boxes near the new clubhouse, but also offered the most difficult opening
hole in Eastern Seaboard golf. This week’s re-configuration was either an
attempt to mitigate the first tee quagmire, created by a 170 yard carry over
water after a baht bus ride to the course, or because some admiral, general,
or police captain was having trouble clearing the pond. But let that not
detract from the fine shot that Phil hit on what is arguably Green
Valley’s toughest par three. And, it should be added that Phil is no
stranger to this quality of golf as his 0.7 handicap and European Tour
pedigree would attest.
The Man of the Match was C Flight’s Ray “Farmer in
the” Dell who amassed 42 points to take a two point victory over Vic
“The Inflictor” Hester. Derek “Take a Ride on the” Reading (ok,
maybe that is enough of the nickname stuff), tidied up the Flight with a
count back victory over “One Ball” Jackson.
Local teaching pro Ian Ashenden’s 30 points took the
top step in the premier Flight as he out counted our Ace of the Day. That
duet was but a point clear of the A Flight bronze medalist Brian Holden. The
Headmaster of the Classroom had the second best round on the day and tops in
B Flight, as his 41 points was four clear of Jeremy Masse and yet another
over Nick Payne.
The first D Flight of this golf year, a harbinger of high
season’s arrival, was won by newcomer Ian Grout and his 39 points. The
ever improving Sugar Ray was joined on the podium by K4, the month’s medal
holder, who was yet another point to the rear.
Tuesday October 18
Laem Chabang:– A & B
(Black or White Tees),
Stroke/Medal
1st Black Flight: Dave Palmer, 34 points
1st White A Flight: Rick Sharp, 41 points
2nd White A Flight: Jim Brackett, 40 points
3rd White A Flight: Garrett Walsh, 40 points
1st White B Flight: Sunny Khanna, 42 points
2nd White B Flight: Peter Barathy, 41 points
3rd White B Flight: Steve Ellison, 38 points
1st White C Flight: Bruce McAdam, 39 points
2nd White C Flight: Scotty Scott, 32 points
3rd White C Flight: Roger Koehler, 32 points
NP’s: #B8 (Black) John Emmerson; #A2 (White) Rick Sharp
2’s: Black: John Emmerson (2) Blue: Jim Brackett (2); Rick Sharp(2); Dave
Tanner; Greg Perzell; Dave Kainey
Fighting through a snafu that was aided by this
scribe’s typographical error, the field took on the Black and White tees
of Laem Chabang’s Mountain and Lake courses. The Gold Coast’s David
Palmer led the Black Bombers home with 34 points.
White B Flight’s Sunny “Bobby Hebb” Khanna was the
Man o’ the Match with his 42 points, one clear of Aussie Peter Barathy.
The Photographer to the Stars, Steve Ellison, rounded out third with a
sparkling 38 points.
The Hermit’s 41 points proved to much for Jimmy
Brackett and Garrett Walsh in the A Flight of White. The Yank got the better
of the Mick on count back. Aussie Bruce McAdam was easily the class act of C
Flight as he was seven clear of the tandem of Scotty Scott and Roger
Koehler. Scotty got the better of Betty’s husband when the counting was
done.
Wednesday October 19
Burapha – A&B
(Blue or White Tees), Stableford
1st Blue Flight: Brent Merron, 38 points
2nd Blue Flight: Pat Manley, 37 points
3rd Blue Flight: Don Lehmer, 36 points
1st White Flight: Andreas Grunenberg, 36 points
2nd White Flight: Seamus Cotter, 34 points
3rd White Flight: Roger Koehler, 33 points
2’s: Blues: John Emmerson; Roy Thornton Whites: None
It was off to the friendly confines of Burapha’s
American Wood and British Link nines and the typical Blue/White field split.
Our two American caddies were separated by a point in the Blue Flight, as
Brent Merron’s 38 points bettered mate Pat Manley’s 37. Don “Ladies
Man” Lehmer was standing on the Blue Flights third step. Andreas
Grunenberg was two clear of Irishman Seamus Cotter in the White Flight, who
in turn was trailed by a single point by yesterday’s bronze holder, Roger
Koehler.
Masashi off to a flyer
IPGC golf at the OK Corral
Tuesday, October 18 - The Pattaya Golf
Society left the storm laden skies of Pattaya and Soi Rungland behind them
and travelled to the tasty C and D courses at Burapha to play their latest
medal event. The course was immaculate as usual and the only surprise was
the slow pace of the greens which proved to be not to everyone’s liking.
The large field included many seasonal “returnees”, who received the
usual OK welcome and such is the popularity of the course that Saranya
Chaiyanont returned in haste from an airport “run” to take the first tee
on time. Indeed, the dash had not fazed her and she was to post yet another
fine score, this time a net 75 to take a share of runners-up place with
“Wee” John Smith, one of the PGS’s newest members. John’s score of
eighty also proved to be the best gross for the day. Just a few days after
posting three cards for an official CONGU handicap, smiling Masashi Iizumi
had the pleasure of his first competitive win, shooting a very creditable
net 71 to take the major honours. The news that there were no birdie two’s
was met with a mixture of frustration and excitement as the eager players
anticipated a tense tournament at Phoenix in two day’s time. A challenging
course also throws up numerous opportunities for the Booby Bevy award and
this time leading claims were posted early by Barry Pethig, his first-five
hole average being 7 shots, Mike Etheridge’s “n/r” on the first and
John Bowes’ last minute arrival, threatening chaos with the start-list.
But nothing could compare with the card returned by old friend Nile Sheehan,
which showed the day’s highest score. All had played their part in making
the day another pleasant one at Burapha
Roar - The Berger King
IPGC golf from The Haven
Mon 17 Oct
Burapha C & D
Medal - White Tees
1st: Roar Berger 69 c/b 26
2nd: Dave Stockman69 c/b 33
3rd: Serge Straeton 69 c/b 34
4th: Richard Garland71 c/b 36
5th: Roy Thornton71 c/b 39
The storms of Friday and generally over the weekend could
not dampen the hopes and ambitions of a medal round off the white tees and
of course the 2nd division jackpot rollover in the 2’s competition! And so
it was that a large field set out on the gravy train. As usual, Burapha was
in great condition and all but six golfers failed to break 80net. Top of the
pack was Roar Berger, beating off strong challenges from Dave and Serge, who
could not come close to Roar’s amazing 42 gross on the back 9, which would
have scored an unprecedented 27 stableford points! On such a fine day, there
were always going to be some 2’s and the triple/quadruple jackpot rollover
in division 2 lasted only until the first par 3 on C4 when Brian Kelly holed
a five foot putt to much ‘high fives’. Brian narrowly missed a couple of
eight footers on the next two par 3’s before finally holing out on D8 for
his second 2 of the round to secure a major stake of the prize at the
expense of Roar Berger and Jimmy Little. In division 1, Ron Mathews scooped
the pot with the only 2 of the day. Once again, the thunder rolled in and
the heavy rains started, but not before the field made the safety of the
clubhouse. It was a slow drive back to Pattaya but Richard Livingston
managed to find a jet ski taxi outside the ‘Greenhouse’ to make it in
time for a delayed presentation. Before singing praises to Roar’s
spectacular round, Richard welcomed back Tony Thorne and Ron Mathews from
Australia
Wed 19 Oct
Noble Place C & B
Stableford
1st: Roar Berger 40
2nd: Dave Spendley 34 c/b 19
3rd: Glyn Nicholas 34 c/b18
c/b 6 13
4th Takeshi Hakozaki 34 c/b 18
c/b 6 11
A smaller field than expected, probably due to the
distance and the threat of more storms, but those that made the drive up the
331 were well rewarded with a beautifully prepared course. OK, the fairways
were wet after all the heavy rains, but greens and bunkers were immaculate!
Roar, continuing his rich vein of form destroyed the field with another
amazing round, scoring 22 points on the front 9 and 18 on the back that
included a wipe! Roar, your days of enjoying a 30/31 handicap are surely
over and we await the handicap committee’s judgment with more than a
little interest! Leading the “also rans” was Dave Spendley taking
“silver” on a whole series of exhausting count-backs that saw Glyn and
Takeshi taking podium positions on better count-back from the unlucky Yasuo
Suzuki, Brian Kelly & Thomas Baigent. In the now less exciting 2’s
competition, Trevor Schirmer & Glyn Nicholas shared the division 1 pot,
whilst Roar’s close friend, Ole Stamnes, claimed the division 2 prize!
Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston, welcomed back Kuni
Wakabayashi, Nobho Gunshi & “mountain man” Rick Bevington
Fri 21 Oct
Siam Country Club
Stableford
1st: Norman Isherwood 72 c/b34
2nd: Trevor Schirmer 72 c/b 38
3rd: Brian Kelly 76
4th: Al Rolnik 77
Despite clashing with the annual TQ Masters, a decent
number of golfers turned out for the usually popular Siam Country Club. What
greeted everybody was news that Siam had, without warning, applied high
season rates. Demanding B900 green fee plus B250 caddy fee was really out of
order for October and after 30mins haggling, the green fee was reduced by
B200. So, a bad start to the day’s proceedings and this was compounded by
the state of the fairways. Clearly no grass cutting had been carried out for
some considerable time except the fairway on the 18th hole (viewable from
clubhouse and car park) and the only thing missing around the course was the
sight of either sheep or cows grazing!
Long grass on fairways (no run) and deep rough (lost
balls) made for a difficult day’s golf but Norman & Trevor, playing in
the same 4-ball were pretty undeterred and were the only two players to
shoot their handicap! Norman just pipped Trevor on count-back, whilst Brian
& Al were most surprised to find themselves on the podium with scores of
four and five over respectively. As the greens were reasonably slick (for
Siam), it was not surprising that someone should make a “2”; Barry
Winton taking home the division 1 prize, whilst Barry Chadbourn scooped
division 2. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, made a belated
farewell to Roar Berger who had dashed back to Norway to be with his
daughter for the birth of a grandchild and a brief goodbye to Barry Traynor
who is making a short journey back to Liverpool to get a new set of wheels
for his car!
Mulligans needed at Soi Dao
October 11-13 saw a dozen of Mulligans’
regulars head off to take on the wonderful Soi Dao Highland Course in
Chantaburi. For many golfers more familiar with Soi 6 than Soi Dao, it proved
to be a most challenging few days.
The format: A 3-day Single Stableford tournament plus
daily 3 man team events with the best 2 scores counting on each hole. Near
Pins were up for grabs on Day 3.
At over 6,700 yards off the white’s, Soi Dao proved to
be a monster with not a single golfer shooting better than his handicap on
any single round. So, whoever was going to win would certainly have to earn
it. Here’s how things unfolded:
Day 1: Sick note staggers
in
So, what’s the ruling if you vomit on your ball? Do you
play it as it lies or have you improved your lie? The question was posed as
Ray “Sick-Note” Ryan paid a heavy price for the previous night’s
“practice”, arriving late for tee off and staggering home rather
red-faced and generally worse for wear with a sorry 10 points. A new approach
tomorrow perhaps Ray?
At the other end of the leaderboard, our Golf Manager
Bruce Tullit posted 34 points to lead from Jez Lees on 33, with Larry
Nickalas and John Boon lying equal 3rd on 30; (surely Larry will win it if we
go off the yellows). Bruce and Jez’s scores helped them secure the team
event as they were well skippered by Graham Dirtrick to a winning total of 75
Points.
Day 2: Clive Bruce charges
Tournament favourite Clive Bruce was the day’s big
mover, putting together an excellent 34 pts off his 6 handicap. Bruce Tullit
again enjoyed the company of his caddy to keep the lead with a 2 day total of
66 pts. Chasing Bruce were Jez Lees (63) and Clive (60) and a group of
golfers lurking in the high 50’s, leaving much to play for on the final
day. Not so for Ray Ryan, who having this time plumped for an early night,
shot a further 10 points to double his overnight score and lay just 46 off
the pace. Ray did comment that “It’s coming back” Let’s see what
happens tomorrow.
In the team event 67pts was enough for another victory for
Graham Dirtrict’s team, this time Graham, Bruce Tullit and Brian Neave.
A fine evening followed and after a marvelous steak
dinner, (thanks Ray and Larry) we were regaled with some very entertaining
renditions on the Karaoke by Graham Beaumount, Brian Or and John Boon. Great
stuff boys!
Day 3: Tullit triumphs
You’re not supposed to win your own tournament, are you?
Well Bruce Tullit has no such qualms. On a day of much improved scoring, he
just about hung on down the stretch to hold off a rampant Clive Bruce and a
fading Jez Lees.
The team event provided further excitement as the final
group (Jeff North, John Boon and Jez Lees) carded 2 birdies on the 18th to
reach a total of 80 and steal the spoils by just one shot. Sorry Brian! It
proved a fitting end to a wonderful 3 days golf played in fantastic company.
Many thanks go out to all who took part, especially to
Bruce and Ray for organizing everything and to Ray and Larry for their
generosity in providing food and prizes.
A final footnote: Congratulations to Ray who finally found
his game with 30 Points on the final Day for a 3 day total of 50. It must be
coming back!
Final Placings:
1st Bruce Tullit (96Pts)
2nd Clive Bruce (95)
3rd Jez Lees (92)
Near Pins went to Graham Beaumount, Graham Dirtrict, Brian Neave and Clive
Bruce.
Straight hitting ‘Sus’ has the edge
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
The weather was great and the Pattaya CC course was in
good condition. With the golfers split between courses and others not
arriving at the Caddy Shack Two, the best that could be determined was that
Hawaii took both ends of the spectrum.
On the top this week was “Sus” Ige with 39 points. He
was hitting the ball long and straight and made a few putts. He also three
putted one hole and four putted another so his score could have been much
better. As it was, his score was good enough for the win. Following close
behind was Paul Kinner with 38 points and Bill Gibson with 37. Both golfers
are coming along with their games and will be in the winners circle shortly.
Rollie Weese and Paul Donahue were at the Caddy Shack sweating it out to
see who would be holding the bag for the week. As it was, Rollie was at the
bottom so Paul was feeling good. Just then, in walked Herb Ishinaga with one
of the worst games that he has played, with a total of only 24 points. It
was a black day at Pattaya CC for Herb as most of his shots never left the
ground. Herb hit grass cutters all day and headed for the cellar for the
week. Better luck next time!!
Ya - simply the best
IPGC golf at the OK Corral
Thursday, October 20 - The Pattaya Golf
Society, based at the OK Corral, was represented by its largest playing
group of the year at Phoenix,for the group’s weekly, stableford challenge.
The day was overcast and there was little wind to offer any relief but the
Mountain and Lakes nines were well presented as usual. The cut was at
fifteen and under and in division two, Texan Mike Etheridge used his sole
birdie two on L2 to help him to a score of 31 points which was enough for
third place. Sunny Khanna took his usual place at the top of the rankings
with a neat 35 points but this time he was joined by a beaming Jim
Parkinson, who had reached the dizzy heights after only a handful of
competitions and a week after bemoaning his luck and his handicap. What’s
new in Pattaya? In a tightly contested division one, Irish catering guru
Liam Horgan put together a tasty feast on the back nine to lay out a score
of 32 points, including two “plum” birdie twos, and he found himself in
third place. His joy was revealed when he rang the bell to celebrate his
double in the rolled-over “twos” competition. Harry Riley surprised
himself when his score of 33 points was ajudged the second best in the
flight but he was outdone by his wife, Saranya, whose card of 37 points was
simply by far the best on a day when many struggled in the heavily humid
conditions. Ya is currently in excellent form and she continues to plummet
in the handicap lists. It was a win richly deserved.
Sunny Khanna joined Mike Etheridge and Liam Horgan to
take a slice of the twos pot and it was a fitting way for him to draw his
annual trip to a close. Chief Rabbit, Mr. Denis, took out his 3-wood on the
tee at L4 and his drive of 250 yards caused the course Marshall to
remonstrate with his caddy, threatening her with a suspension, for not
delaying the drive. After only caddying for him for twelve holes, how was
she to know that he would finally out-drive the Ladies’ tee! Denis duly
accepted the Booby Bevy on the Marshall’s behalf. It had been a big day at
the OK Corral and the good humour continues with the Pattaya Golf Society.
Visit http://www.thebunker boys.com and http://www. okbarpattaya.com
regularly for more news, fun and details of PGS events.
A Noble day out at Bert’s
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday October 18 Noble Place, Stableford - I was
sure Bob kept booking this place because it was part of the family treasure,
however the Managing Director, Mr Charkkrit Bhumichitr, told Tim that it was not
so. In fact so sure was he that he said next year they will re-name it. He would
not tell us the new name, but I did suggest Brooklands, we shall see.
 Happy
golfers relaxing at Bert’s.
The day was a new start for me after several weeks of
idleness and the juices were flowing as I turned up for ‘Brekkers’ and
was pleased the staff remembered I liked a bacon ‘butty’ and hot coffee,
it’s good here ‘Innit’.
Normally the drive up is a pain, but on this day for some
reason the road was quiet, and no rain. The drive was pleasant and on
arriving, the book in was quick and is the cheapest in the business; this
makes for a lot of people wanting to play.
Out to the course and we found we would be playing the B
& C layouts. It has to be said the course is in great condition with
grassed fairways and quick, true greens. This has to be the best value
around. One may also visit the restaurant after playing as it equals the
course for good value.
After a quiet drive back to Bert’s, a cold beer helped
down a fine salad & meat buffet, certainly the favourite of most of us.
With such a large field and a long drive it was quite late before Bob got
down to doing the presentation. Still who cares, the beer is cold and the
food fine. Probably the reason why Bob decided to have a winner and two
runner ups, do we really want to do a count-back in the dark.
Well T.T.F.N.
Winner: Paul Avery
Runner Ups: Fergus Brennan & Steve Hamsted
Near Pin: Jackie McPherson, Paul Avery, Mike Wing, Barry Kerr, Andy Evans,
David Thomas, Colin Cronin, Tim Holt
Long Put: Bob Noble, Bob Short, Derek Brook, Martin Bullen
The Jomtien Pool League
Standings October 20
The Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League continues to grow with
new venues bringing the number of participants up to 16 for its sixth
season. Opening day saw no real surprises, but once the new teams settle
in, some unfamiliar names should be seen around the top of the table.
Top billing in Week 1 went to the match up between last
season’s League Champions San Snack Bar and Knockout Cup Champions
Paweena’s. Paweena’s were confident but SSB never gave their visitors a
chance, running away with a 7-2 result. SSB never fired in the post season
Knockout but served notice that, now back in the regular season, they are
not going to rest on their champions’ laurels.
Elephant Bar are no strangers to Pattaya pool so their
debut in the Jomtien League would have disappointed when they went down 5-4
in a close match at Hide-A-Way. Both of these teams can be expected to be
title contenders for this season.
At home in Soi 5, last season’s League runners up
Simple Simon got off to a shaky start against Rose & Thistle, scraping
in 5-4 in a match that could have gone either way. New venue, Scooby’s
played host to Carefree Bar in the Jomtien Complex. While Carefree is also
a new venue, they have the advantage of a number of old hands and didn’t
have too much trouble taking the points with a 6-3 win. Twilight Zone were
expected to give visitors Cosy Bar a more testing introduction to the
League but the newcomers had no problems, surprising even themselves with a
7-2 victory and a share of top spot on the table.
In other matches: Woaw’s Pub made short work of Sky
Bar, the last of the new venues, taking the points with a 7-2 win at home;
in Soi Welcome, Lucky Bar held off Country Club to win 5-4; and the
Kenny’s vs. Moonshine match was postponed.
Next week, San Snack Bar could see themselves back at the top of the
table when they host Simple Simon, their sole victors from last season, and
Paweena’s are hoping that their Knockout Cup form will return at home
against Elephant Bar.
A ‘Sunny’ day at Noble Place
PSC golf with The Bunker
Khao Kheow
Country Club
Monday 17 October
 On
October 19th, Sander (Sunny) Ruth Sip made a rare visit to the winner’s
circle
It
was a refreshing morning for a stableford competition on the very difficult
Khao Kheow golf course. William Macey returned the winning card with a
stableford score of 35 points. Geoff Parker came in second with 34 points
and third place was shared between Sunny Khanna and Gordan Melia with scores
of 33. Near pins were won by Geoff Parker (2) and Sunny Khanna.
Noble Place Golf Course
Wednesday 19 October
A medal competition was set for the Boys from the Bunker
as they headed out to play the very popular Noble Place golf course. Sander
(Sunny) Ruth Sip took the honors of the day with a net 69. Joint runners-up
went to Sunny Khanna and Bob Turner both returning scores of net 70. Near
pins were won by John Preddy, Mikito Homma, Geoff Parker and Eddie Martin.
Pattaya Country Club
Friday 21 October
The week finished on a high note for Mikito Homma as he
scored 35 points in a stableford competition to take the first place honors.
Roger Privett, hot on his tail scored 34 points and third place was shared
by William Macey and Gordan Melia with 33 points. Near pins were won by Neil
Griffin, William Macey, Geoff Parker and Gordan Melia.
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.
New look for Seaboard F.C.
Thanks to the continued support of AGS Four Winds
International Movers, Seaboard FC were pleased to announce the introduction
of their new football strip for the current season. The official launch took
place at Kilkenny’s Irish pub on Walking Street on Friday, October 21. AGS
Four Winds representative, Paul Wilkinson was on hand to present the new
home and away strip to team members. Seaboard F.C. will now turn out for
their home games in a dashing all yellow strip whilst their away kit will be
sky blue.
 Rick
Bryant (left), the manager of Seaboard FC gratefully accepts the new
football strip from AGS Four Winds representative, Paul Wilkinson.
Seaboard’s next game will be away in Bangkok against the
Londoner, Saturday 29 October, kick off 4:30 p.m.
Anybody who would be interested in joining Seaboard FC, whether their stay in
Thailand is for a long or short period is more than welcome to come down to the
football pitch in Naklua every Tuesday evening at 6:30pm. Contact us at
[email protected] or call Peter on 01 810 1470.
The Beautiful Game?: Good luck - who needs It?
Riz Taylor
Prior to the start of this season’s Premiership campaign,
Aston Villa manager David O’Leary telephoned his Wigan Athletic counterpart
Paul Jewell, primarily to wish him luck in keeping Wigan in England’s top
division as he prepared his side for their first taste of top-flight football.
In case you missed it, Jewell took Wigan to Birmingham last
Saturday and looked on as the Latics handed Villa a 2-0 defeat. It left
O’Leary to ponder how long it might be before he himself starts receiving well
meaning phone calls from other managers sympathetic to his plight. Having
recently celebrated Villa’s first derby win over Birmingham since the Blues
came back into the Premiership, the Villains came back down to earth with a thud
after being beaten by everyone’s favourites to be relegated before the
season’s kick off.
Jewell, meanwhile, will have been pinching himself this week
as he walked into his office at the JJB Stadium to be greeted by the Manager of
the Month award for September on the mantelpiece and a league table that shows
Wigan sitting in a Champions League position after the first quarter of the
season.
Whilst it’s been a surprise early start to the season for a
number of clubs, perhaps an even bigger one is that, at the time of writing,
every manager that began the season in charge of a Premiership club is still in
his job. Last season Sir Bobby Robson was ousted by Newcastle United and Paul
Sturrock dispensed with at Southampton, and both before the end of August. By
New Year five more bosses were shown the door by their employers. This season is
the first since 1997 that is yet to see a sacking before the middle of October.
That’s not to say life is looking rosy for the bosses; in
fact by the time you read this the famed managerial merry-go-round could well be
underway. Alain Perrin clings to his Portsmouth job by a thread after another
defeat, this time at home to Charlton Athletic, left Pompey with just seven
points from ten matches. Graeme Souness is another in hot water at Newcastle,
whilst David Moyes, Steve Bruce and Mick McCarthy will also wonder how long
their previous successes will keep them at their respective clubs.
Whilst guessing who might go first is almost impossible, it
could be that the spark comes not from a trigger-happy chairman but from Ireland
or Scotland. Brian Kerr’s departure from his position of head coach of Ireland
leaves the way clear for David O’Leary to jump before being pushed. The former
defender has told friends that he’d love to manage his country at some stage.
His replacement could be George Burley, the former Ipswich
and Derby County manager who left Heart of Midlothian at the weekend with the
club at the top of the Scottish Premier League, citing “irreconcilable
differences” between himself and the club’s major shareholder Vladimir
Romanov as the reason for his exit. It is rumoured that the Russian businessman
became heavily involved in team selection and even chose Hearts’ signings
himself. Whatever happens, expect a few more irreconcilable differences to come
to the surface at other clubs in the not too distant future.
Bruce loses it
Steve Bruce went up a notch in my estimations after losing
his rag with the referee last Saturday when Blackburn’s Paul Dickov was
awarded a penalty against Bruce’s Birmingham City. Speaking to journalists
after the game the former Manchester United defender was unable to bite his
tongue and promptly ditched any plans to mince his post-match words.
“If you give penalties for that you’d be giving half a
dozen in every match, it’s a man’s game and everyone in the ground will just
look at it and say that is pathetic,” he ranted. “My concern is would we
have got that? Would we heck. We all know that but I can’t say it - oh
b******s I’ll say it - I admire Paul Dickov as a player but he’s made a meal
of it, it’s as simple as that, but the referee should have seen through it.”
Bruce will no doubt be given some kind of disrepute charge
for his comments, but to my mind we need more honesty from everyone in the game.
Cheating has become so commonplace at the top level that maybe the time has come
for divers and cheats such as Dickov to be exposed for what they are.
More of the same, please
Thank you Newcastle and Sunderland for the terrific derby
match on Sunday that seemed to have everything, and let’s hope Spurs and
Arsenal can provide something similar this weekend. Who cares if the standard of
defending is atrocious if we get games like this? I’d rather watch this than
sit through ninety minutes of a match containing more defensive sides such as
Liverpool or even North East neighbours Middlesbrough. And it seems I’m not
alone. Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has made it clear that more
attractive football is required at the Riverside. Manager Steve McLaren has been
attacked for playing one striker in consecutive home matches against Sunderland
and Portsmouth, taking only one point from the possible six.
“We can’t change the past. Those games have gone. What we
can do is change the way that we play, be more attack-minded, try to be more
entertaining and win games. If we do that, the fans will come back,” the
chairman told listeners to a radio phone-in last week.
Happy endings in Norway
Depressed at seeing Chelsea dominate the Premiership? Spare a
thought for Norwegian football fans unlucky enough to have chosen a side other
than Rosenborg to be the object of their affections. The Trondheim club have
taken the Premier Division title in Norway for thirteen consecutive years,
regularly qualifying for the Champions League group stages and using the
finances from that success to cement their place at the head of the domestic
table.
But the reign is over. Last season Rosenborg barely scraped
past Valerenga to snatch the title on the season’s final day, but this year
Valerenga look set to take revenge and claim the trophy for themselves. It’s
been a long wait for the Norwegian masses, but their happy ending is just around
the corner.
The players of FK Tonsberg, a Norwegian second division
outfit, will also be hoping for a happy ending of their own in the near future
after their Swedish head coach banned his players from all bedroom activity.
“I have told the players to use all their energy on the pitch and not have any
sex with their wives or partners until the season is over,” said the Swede.
“Football comes first, especially at this crucial stage of the season.”
Bangpra back to its best
PSC golf from the Grapevine
This week, 24
Grapevine golfers traveled up Sukhumvit Highway to beautiful Bangpra. With
the recent rains and all the maintenance work done during the dry season,
this course has returned to its best. The greens are not as fast as the
‘old days’, but will not take long to resume normal speed.
Tom
H., John C., Jeff W., and Fergus B. (Standing in front is Kob)
With 2 flights, 0-17 and 18 up, some keen competition was
assured. In the higher flight, John Christie (23) squeaked past playing
partner Tom Herrington (18) on a count back, both having 35 points. An error
by Tom cost him first place for putting down a bogey when he had a par. A
lesson learned!
In the low flight, Jeff Wylie (4) shot a hard earned 36
points to take the win. In second spot was Fergus Brennan (15) with 34, a
good reward when stacked up against the 10 scores of less than 30 points
returned by the group. The technical prizes were shared around this week,
with near pins being picked up by Fergus, Phil, Jackie, Nigel, Jeff and
Keith A. Don and Nigel won long putts. The mutually exclusive awards (a.k.a.
lucky draws) were won by Keith H., Paul, and with some good karma, Steve.
All agreed that the short term pain endured at Bangpra
over the dry period when major maintenance was undertaken has paid
dividends, with full dams and grassy fairways. A great day was had by all
and Malcolm and Opal provided warm hospitality and good food upon our
return.
If you want to have a good day of golf with some great
company, come down and sign up at The Grapevine, Soi ‘0’, off Beach Rd.
For more info, please call 038361-736.
Cheers and good golfing. JW
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
The finalists from last year’s Contender Series finally got
together. It was a long awaited rematch between Peter Manfredo jr.(24-3) and
Contender Champion Sergio Mora (17-0). When they met in May, Mora got an easy
unanimous decision. The rematch held at the vast Staples Center in Los Angeles,
home of the NBA Lakers and the NHL Kings, was a home game for Mora. This time
out it was a split decision for Mora which was not well received by the hometown
crowd or the TV commentators. The Square Ring was in tune with the crowd and
judge Marty Denkin who saw the bout 77-75 for the unlucky Manfredo jr. In short,
judges Chuck Hassett and Julie Lederman with 77-75 for Mora were watching a
different contest. Julie Lederman’s name may be familiar as her Dad, Harold,
is the HBO “official judge.” Yes she entered the family business of “miss
judging fights”. Mora was cut by a punch over the eye in round one and
outworked in all the punch stats: - the final decision? “It was just one of
them boxing deals.” The fight on TV though was a knockout for ESPM as it
garnered the largest boxing audience since 1997. Interesting to see how the
“New” Contender Series does with Sylvester Stallone back as co host. Oh yes
there is a Rocky VI in production. True fact I kid you not.
It may well be the biggest day for Thailand’s International
boxers this Sunday when 5 of the best that the Kingdom has to offer get the
spotlight at a Injun Casino outside Tucson, Arizona. It would be impossible to
pick a ‘Main Event’ as there will be four World Boxing Organization titles
on the line. In no special order; Ratananchai Sor Vorapin (65-8) vs. Jhonny
Gonzalez (30-4) for the Bantam title might be the most interesting. Vorapin, a
pro since 1992, does best when fighting at home. Six of his 8 loses’s have
come when fights were held away from Thailand. More importantly is that when he
loses, he loses to really good fighters... who? Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson,
Gerry Penalosa, Tim Austin and Chris Johns. Vorapin is undefeated since he won
the title last May with a fairly wide UD against Cruz Carbajal in Bangkok. He
defended only once against Mauricio Martinez (28-5-1) in Phuket, getting a
majority decision which should have been unanimous. Gonzalez is one of those
guys with the “can’t miss tag” that do. He was riding high when he lost
back to back fights to tough Ricardo Vargas three years ago. Take away the home
field advantage and Gonzalez’ slight power advantage and Vorapin would
prevail. But you can’t. Like romance in Thailand, “it could go either
way.”
It’s no wonder that the Daniel Ponce de Leon (26-1) - Sod
Looknongyangtoy (25-0) fight for the WBO jr. feather title had trouble finding a
venue. Here are two boxers that have had very carefully protected careers. If
you took their 52 combined contests you would be hard pressed to find a familiar
name. If I was a betting man, I would guess that Daniel “The Fountain of Youth
Guy” will probably prevail after a brief burst of energy by Looknongyangtoy.
The best tussle of the evening will probably involve Fernando Montiel (31-1-1),
who defends his WBO jr. Bantam title against Pramunansak Phosawan (29-0-1). If
there is an edge here it goes to Montiel on a couple of counts. He’s fought a
better quality of opponents with his only loss coming at the hands of Mark
“Too Sharp” Johnson. More importantly, he has the power edge with 24 KO’s
from his 33 bouts. It’s going to be difficult for Phosawan to overcome his
first trip outside Thailand for a fight and his lack of power.
If I were to pick the upset of the evening, I would toss my
lot with Kaichon Sor Vorapin (17-7) when he attempts to gain the WBO jr. Fly
title against Hugp Cararez (21-3-3). Vorapin’s record is misleading. He
started 4-7 in his first 11 when it appears his management was more interested
in a pay day than furthering a career. Since then, he’s 13 and naught with 6
KO’s. The travel shouldn’t be a problem as he’s fought in Japan,
Philippines, Indonesia and of course at home in Thailand. Cararez is on a win
streak of 12-0 including his title winning match with Nelson Dieppa (22-1-2) in
April of this year. Take Vorapin to give Thailand a win.
This column is of course the International voice of boxing
for the Riviera of Asia. So for ex-pats from around the world, here are a couple
of results that you’ll probably find no where else but in your home country
newspaper. The list of world champions from Switzerland is less than the number
of lonely men in Pattaya with a hand full of baht. Fighting in St-Nazaire,
France, little known Sofiane Sebihi (9-0), a Tunisian living in Switzerland,
stopped light heavy French domestic titlist, Jean-Louis Mandengue (16-1-1) in 9.
Sebihi got a first round knockdown which he built upon in the ensuing rounds.
When Mandengue got decked again in the 9th, his corner tossed in the towel.
Imagine that, a Frenchman surrendering. Who would have ‘thunk’ it?
There is a chance that you may not have heard of Leif Larsen.
He was a 6th round draft pick of the NFL Buffalo Bills in 2000. The 6’4”,
290 pound defensive tackle, out of the University of Texas, El Paso had come a
long way from his native Tofte, Norway to the NFL. When injuries hit Larsen, he
turned to boxing as an alternative to football. So far so good: - he built his
record to 7-0, 6KO’s, without facing an opponent with a winning record. Last
week in Alicante, Spain, he met Zoltan Petrany (26-16). Larson got his 7th KO in
the second stanza for his first “W” against a winning record fighter. He
might be someone to keep an eye on.
On November 5, Scott Harrison (24-2-2) faces what may be his
most difficult task since his fight against Wayne McCullough, when he defends
his WBO Featherweight belt against hard hitting Nedal Hussein (39-2). To many
inside of boxing, Harrison hasn’t been the same since his March 2003 bout with
“The Pocket Rocket”. Harrison got the UD but in later fights it seemed that
he was easy to hit and a lot less dominating. One of Hussein’s losses came at
the hands of Manny Pacquiao, against whom all featherweights are measured. If
Hussein can go 10 rounds with “The Pac Man”, Harrison is in for a tough
night.
Harrison has always been known as a fighter that swarms with
a plethora of punches. The opposite is true for the Aussie. “Scott throws
punches in clusters of four or five but I pick my punches and throw them in ones
or twos. The thing is, I make sure they count,” said Hussein. “I know I
don’t throw 150 punches every round. I won’t stand toe to toe with Harrison
and trade punches but I won’t run from him either and he won’t have met
anyone who punches so hard.” Harrison had trouble in his draw with Victor Polo
which he should have lost. You’ve got to love those ‘home-town decisions’.
Some may have considered Dapper Dave Stewart’s (16-0)
match, last Friday against Judex Meemea (3-3) as just a holding pattern until
the Danny Hunt British title elimination shot early next year. Nay, Nay says the
30 years ‘King of the Second Road. “I am approaching this with 100%
dedication. I never approach any fight lightly, particularly a potential banana
skin like this.” Did he say ‘banana skin’? “Judex is an awkward
customer. He’s tall, has long arms and is wild, so I am going to have to keep
focused at York Hall in Bethnal Green.”
So well focused was Stewart that he won a lopsided decision
over 6 stanza’s and so impressed was the Square Ring that should Stewart stop
by at the Twilight Zone in Jontiem, my pal, Monkey House Fred will buy him a
beverage of his choice.
Me? I’ll drink to the win now.
Pattaya Mail/Pattaya Blatt to sponsor Asian Optimists
By Peter Cummins
The first International Optimist Dinghy Association
(IODA) Asian Optimist championship to come to Pattaya for a considerable
time is about to start this weekend, with Saturday, 29 October and Sunday 30
October designated as registration and measurement, race practice and
official opening of the week-long sailing feast.
In fact, the first (IODA) World Championship to be sailed
in Asia, came to Thailand in December 1979, the third IODA Asian Sailing
Championship in 1992 and now today, we have the 16th edition. though there
have also been a number of ASEAN championships over the years at the Royal
Varuna Yacht Club.
This new event will feature around 100 children (under
16), coming from some 12 Asian-Pacific countries and of course, as host
country, a big contingent of boys and girls from the Royal Thai Navy Clubs
and the Royal Varuna Yacht Club.
The Pattaya Mail, which has always supported yacht racing
in the Pattaya-Jomtien area, considers the advent of 100 young people coming
to Pattaya to compete in this prestigious event, as not only a great boost
to the city but also an excellent chance to promote environmental awareness.
It will also help develop the marine tourism industry which has suffered
considerably since the December tsunami in the Southern provinces.
Since the Optimist dinghy was introduced into Thailand in
the early 1970s by Ruchai Kanjanavanit, the fleet has grown exponentially
through the strong support of the International Optimist Dinghy Association,
the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand and our affiliated club, the Junior
Sailing Squadron of Thailand, the Royal Thai Navy and the Royal Varuna Yacht
Club.
Among the many who have dedicated their time, resources
and experience to assisting this phenomenal development, I must single out
Al Chandler who, in addition to the huge contributions to Thailand’s
junior sailing programmes, has also been the president of IODA on two
occasions.
This year has been a watershed for the Optimist fleet,
with more than 70 boats racing at the last Optimist National Championship,
held off the Royal Thai Navy facilities at Sattahip and, here today, over
100 craft from 13 countries of the Asian region.
Appropriately enough, on International Children’s Day,
8 January l977, the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand formed the Junior
Sailing Squadron of Thailand (JSST), with a mandate, inter alia, “of
promoting youth sailing throughout the Kingdom”, adopting the ubiquitous
Optimist dinghy as the ideal trainer.
For several years now, JSST has been guided by the firm
hand of Rear Admiral Sunan Monthardpalin at the helm and we are able to take
great pride in this big international event taking place.
Due to the staunch and generous supporters of junior
sailing, Thailand has already produced generations of first-class sailors,
including professional instructors. It has also contributed several national
and regional champions in various classes, as well as Olympic contenders.
JSST alumni can no doubt be found sailing in regattas in all corners of the
globe. Royal Varuna has consistently co-operated with the Royal Thai Navy
and the JSST and, over the years, makes the club’s facilities available
for training, practice and racing, hosting three ASEAN Optimist
Championships.
The Pattaya Mail will sponsor the second day of the
regatta which will be Tuesday, 01 November, with three races of the
Individual Championship, offering an awards ceremony, a buffet and drinks
for the children, team supporters and race officials.
A programme of the “Pattaya Mail Race Day” will be circulated very
shortly.
VFW Post 9876 alone in first place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
 200
Bowlers - Nual & Lenz.
VFW Post 9876 took all four points from
Jack & Tar and are now alone in first place. Friends won three points
from Brother D and dropped one point behind the leaders. Shenanigans lost
four points to Mai’s Thai Restaurant and dropped from third to fourth
place while Mai’s Thai Restaurant moved into third. Three Sisters got
three points from House of the Golden Coin and Domicil beat Caf้
Kronborg three points to one. Grape Vine won four points from Caf้
Ole, the second four-point sweep in two weeks, and they moved up the
standings.
Best bowlers of the day were:
Lenz, Mai’s Thai Restaurant: games of 213, 172, 179 -
564 series
Udom, Three Sisters: 535 series
Tue, VFW Post 9876: 518 series
Morn, Domicil: 515 series
Nual, Caf้ Ole: 201 game - 514 series
Tien, Shenanigans: 514 series
Konrad, Brother D: 512 series
Kran, Caf้ Kronborg: 510 series
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