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That was the year that was
A perspective of the 2005-sporting year in words and pictures.
The year 2005 was something of a watershed for the world
of sporting personalities. Some old familiar faces passed into the sunset,
some of them sadly never to be seen again whilst at the other end of the
spectrum, new faces emerged to challenge for their own place in sporting
immortality.
The tennis world was brightened by the success of Spanish
teenager Raphael Nadal who emerged as possibly the only player to pose a
realistic threat to the almost ‘unbeatable’ Swiss ace, Roger Federer.
Nadal beat Federer on his way to winning this year’s French Open title and
the tennis world will eagerly await the resumption of their rivalry in 2006.
Over in the women’s court, Venus Williams finally ended years of
frustration caused by injury and loss of form as she took the ladies
Wimbledon title amid scenes of unrestrained delight.
After months of asking “will he or won’t he?” Lance
Armstrong finally decided to compete in one final Tour de France. Armstrong
went on to win the race with ease and then promptly announced his retirement
from competitive cycling. A few months before the Tour started, Lance had
publicly given his backing to the Paris 2012 Olympic bid. This would have
been fine except that only several weeks later, Armstrong was in New York
stating that as an American, he had to give 100% backing to the New York bid
and that he had only supported Paris to be diplomatic. This followed
accusations in the American media of the cyclist being a “traitor” and a
“weasel”. Armstrong’s gold medal performance in the sport of
back-pedaling naturally ruffled a few of the French cockerel’s feathers
and it was no surprise that as the year neared its end, allegations of drug
use were leveled against the cyclist by certain Tour de France officials.
Whatever one chooses to believe about Lance Armstrong, no
one should forget that this is a man who came back from a year long battle
against terminal cancer to capture what is perhaps the world’s toughest
endurance race no less than seven times in succession. Love him or hate him,
it is doubtful we will ever see his like again.
As the Olympic bidding war heated up over the summer
months, it became increasingly clear that the two favorites to be named as
host for the 2012 games were those eternal best of enemies, France (Paris)
and the UK (London). The nationalistic fervor became so intense that wily
old French leader Jacques Chirac saw fit to label the English as close to
barbarians and English PM Tony Blair as “pathetic”. “How can you trust
people whose food is so bad?” Chirac famously observed. “The only thing
the English have contributed to European culture is Mad Cow’s Disease.”
Throughout all the mud slinging, Blair kept his cool and
thanks in no small part to the statesmanship of former athlete Seb Coe,
London was granted the Olympics even as the Parisians began celebrating a
‘victory’ they were sure was theirs for the taking. To add salt to the
wounds, Chirac was then obliged to visit the UK as part of the G8 summit at
Gleneagles in Scotland. One can only assume he took a packed lunch with him.
Whilst London was celebrating its victory, crowds in Red
Square, Moscow were eagerly awaiting news of their own city’s success in
the bidding process. Despite having been eliminated in the first round of
voting, the powers that be in Russian state television decided that they
didn’t have the heart to inform their own public. This masquerade went on
for hours until later, when the truth finally came out, joy turned to tears
and the party came to an abrupt end as the Russian dreams drifted off down
the Moscow River. Ironically, in December this year, it emerged that a Greek
Olympic dignitary had voted for the wrong city by mistake. Had he voted
correctly, the games would almost certainly have gone to surprise,
surprise... Madrid!
With London being awarded the Olympic games for 2012,
England was certainly a great place to be in over the summer months...
especially if you happened to be English. After 19 years of playing second
fiddle to a cock-sure Australian cricket team, England finally won back the
Ashes amidst scenes of unrestrained jubilation. At one point, it seemed as
if the whole nation had come to a standstill as cricket fever gripped the
public imagination like never before. Talismanic hero Andrew ‘Freddie’
Flintoff became the country’s favorite son overnight due both to his
cricketing exploits and his ‘down to earth’ demeanor. Not since Ian
Botham 24 years earlier had English cricket possessed such a hero who could
seemingly vanquish the opposition with one mighty swish of his bat.
In the world of soccer Chelsea, backed by the billions of
owner Roman Abramovich emerged as not just the strongest team in England but
potentially the rest of Europe as well. Under the stewardship of their
enigmatic and often outspoken manager, the self titled Jose ‘the special
one’ Mourinho, Chelsea won their first English championship in 50 years.
With Mourinho at the helm however, the club were as often in the press for
the wrong reasons as the right ones.
One title that eluded Chelsea last season was the
European Champions League title, (the biggest prize in European football).
The surprise winners of this event were former champions Liverpool who made
an almost miraculous recovery in the final against Italian side, AC Milan.
3-0 down at half time, Liverpool were level within what Milan coach Carlo
Ancelotti described as “a six minute spell of madness” in the second
half. In what must go down as one of the most amazing finals of all time,
Liverpool eventually took the title on a penalty shoot-out.
A year after relinquishing his world number one status,
Tiger Woods came back with a vengeance in the 2005 golfing calendar and
captured two of the year’s majors. The big surprise of the season was
Michael Campbell’s victory in the US Open at Pinehurst after he had only
qualified through the back door and started out the tournament as a 100/1
shot. Phil Mickleson grabbed the other major of the year and was promptly
renamed the ‘best player never to win 3 majors’. This year will also be
remembered as the one when golfing legend Jack Nicklaus finally closed the
door on playing competitive golf. Those who witnessed his emotional farewell
on the 18th hole at St. Andrews will surely never forget it. Thanks for the
memories Jack.
The New Zealand All Blacks team bestrode the rugby world
like a colossus in 2005 and only lost one game all year, away to South
Africa. Their run of victories included a 3-0 ‘blackwash’ over the
visiting British Lions and a grand slam winning tour of the home nations.
In the USA, the New England Patriots continued a similar
reign of dominance over all opposition as they took their third Super bowl
title in 4 years with a 24-21 victory over Philadelphia and look strong
favorites again for this year’s trophy. Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs
won a thrilling final series 4-3 in the NBA championship match and let’s
spare a thought for the Chicago White Sox baseball team who won their first
World Series for 88 years. That’s right, 1917 was the last time they
claimed that honor.
So, there you have it... 2005 in a nutshell. Well not
quite but if that doesn’t whet your appetite for the next sporting year, I
don’t know what will. Despite all the things that happen in sport, both
good and bad, it always gives us something to talk about and stirs the
emotions.
2006... bring it on!
(For a full review of the year in the English Premiership, turn to ‘The
Beautiful Game’)
Sports quotes and musings from those who made the headlines in 2005
“I do not want to go overboard on Alan Shearer, I just
think that he has an influence on referees. I just think that he is an
example of a guy who, when the ball is in the air, goes first for the man
and then for the ball - today more than ever - and he gets away with a
lot.”
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger trying not to go
overboard on Newcastle forward Alan Shearer
“Buddhism has played a major role in my life. It has
given me an inner peace and calmness that I think I wouldn’t have achieved
at such an early age. I owe that to my mom.”
Tiger Woods talks about the calming influence Buddhism
has played in his life.
“Goddam ******** *****!!”
Tiger clearly has a problem remembering what his mother
taught him after missing a birdie putt during the 2nd
round of the 2005 US Open at Pinehurst. The outburst shocked the gallery at
the 18th hole into silence.
Earlier in the same round, Tiger had deliberately taken a lump out of the 9th
green with his putter when he failed to make his par. It seems that even for
the Zen masters, golf can be a frustrating game at times.
“I don’t understand clearly when the ball is in the
air when it is a foul or not. I would like it to be explained so we can work
properly in training. How many fouls were committed today without any
attempt to play the ball and without a yellow card? Shearer got a cosmetic
one in the 90th minute.”
Arsene Wenger still not going overboard about Alan
Shearer.
“If you take the scrum out of the equation, we played
quite well.”
Former Australia coach Eddie Jones, defending the
Wallabies’ defeat by England at Twickenham in November 2005.
“If you take the assassination out of the equation, you
could say the President and Mrs. Kennedy quite enjoyed the drive from Dallas
to the airport.”
Mike Carlton (Australian broadcast er) who obviously
disagreed.
“I feel that many go overboard now and do not let us
play football at all and referees let them do it. In Europe, that wouldn’t
be allowed. We have to decide whether we want football or a judo party.”
Ok Arsene, enough, enough! We get your point.
“I’m gonna gut him like a fish. He’s nothing but a
tomato can.”
‘Iron’ Mike Tyson having problems deciding if his
opponent is animal, mineral or vegetable going into his fight with Irish
journeyman Kevin Mcbride.
“I don’t have the guts to fight anymore. My heart is
not in it anymore.”
Mike Tyson clearly feeling “gutted” after he quit
on his stool 6 rounds into his fight with Kevin McBride.
“Everything was fine until I walked on to the first
tee!”
Seve Ballesteros still enjoying his golf. After hitting
a shot into the trees at the first hole of his opening round in the 2005
Madrid Open, he went on to shoot a 77.
“That means I can drive a flock of sheep through the
town center, drink for free in no less than 64 pubs and get a lift home with
the police when I become inebriated - what more could you want?”
English cricket icon Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff on
the privileges granted him after being given the freedom of his hometown,
Preston.
“I make no apologies for saying I believe this is the
best prepared Lions tour in the history of Lions rugby. The squad has the
makings of a great Lions Test side.
Sir Clive Woodward refuses to apologise for believing
his own hype as the 2005 British Lions touched down in New Zealand.
“We are disappointed - we came out to win the Test
series so we have failed. It’s actually been a successful tour, and has
been great experience.”
Sir Clive tries manfully to turn a sow’s ear into a
silk purse. The Lions lost the series 3-0 amidst accusations of disunity in
the squad.
“In the second half it was whistle and whistle, fault
and fault, cheat and cheat.”
Chelsea manager Jose ’the special one’ Mourinho
clearly delighted with the referee’s performance during his sides Carling
Cup semi final against Manchester United 2005.
“We were playing football in the garden and I took it
past George Best. I stopped and screamed ‘I beat George Best, I beat
George Best.’ Mind you, he was holding a pint of white wine at the
time.”
Broadcaster Danny Baker remembers playing football
against his boyhood idol. Best, aged 59 died in November after years of
heavy drinking.
Trucy Chadbourn - You go girl
IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday 18 December
Green Valley - White Tees,
Stableford
1st A Flight: Rick Sharp, 35 points
2nd A Flight: Klaus Schackt, 35 points
3rd A Flight: Mike Gosden, 35 points
1st B Flight: Don Lehmer, 43 points
2nd B Flight: Paul Young, 40 points
3rd B Flight: Tore Elisassen, 40 points
1st C Flight: Steve Mulberry, 39 points
2nd C Flight: Jez Lees, 36 points
3rd C Flight: Ed Junger, 36 points
1st D Flight: Trudy Chadbourn, 40 points
2nd D Flight: Emiel Van de Wiele, 38 points
3rd D Flight: Sugar Ray Handford, 37 points
NP’s: #2 Bob Patterson; #9 Paul Young; #12 Nick Mumford; #16 Dave Porter
2’s: Nick Mumford, Bob Patterson, Robert McCarthy, Jez
Lees, Colin Davis, Seamus Cotter, Dave Porter
The Man of the Match was the Man of the Ladies, that’s
right, Don “I’m a gettin’ married” Lehmer. His best on the day 43
was three ahead of the next best rounds, two of which were in his own B
Flight. It should, as an aside be noted that Dandy Don shot gross 79 on the
day, as well. Those two other 40’s in B Flight were Paul Young and Tore
Eliassen, with the former taking the count back.
She may have missed being lady of the match but she put
the first leg on what was to be lady...’er... player of the week. Trudy
Chadbourn, Barry’s much better looking other half, took, in what this
rum-sodden minded Scribes recollects to be, her first Society win with a
second best on the day equaling 40 points and a two point victory in D
Flight. Emiel Van de Wiele, himself requiring direction to the podium was
second with The Sugar Ray pummeling his was to a count back third over Ian
“Tile” Grout.
“Blackburn” Steve Mulberry, bringing his “Firm”
from across the street at the Shack, made his 39 points stand up in C Flight
with a three point victory over The Principal and Airbus Ed.
The Flagship Flight was a bit at half mast as The Hermit
had the better of a four-way count back over the Volks Computer and old
friend Mike Gosden. Poor Nick Mumford was left out in the cold despite being
the medalist on the day with gross 75, although a 2 was in his resume. Golf,
like life, is seldom fair.
Monday 19 December
Pattaya C.C. -White Tees,
Stableford
1st A Flight: Pat Regan, 38 points
2nd A Flight: Klaus Schackt, 38 points
3rd A Flight: Robert McCarthy, 37 points
1st B Flight: Trudy Chadbourn, 38 points
2nd B Flight: Chaten Patel, 38 points
3rd B Flight: Colin Davis, 36 points
Near Pin: #8 Peter Hynard
2’s: John Emmerson, Dave McFeely
That old local standby, Pattaya C.C. was the site of the
day’s competition, the last opportunity as such for the foreseeable
future. They have, regrettably, chosen to raise the prices and will have to
suffer the ignominy of boycott for the transgression and it is a pity
because the course is every bit playable. Our title girl showed why her name
is in the big font as she shot a best on the day equaling 38 points and
thanks to a count back over Chaten Patel, took B Flight. The Donkey rounded
out the B Flight podium places.
Irish Pat Regan had the count back better of the Volks
computer, to take A Flight. Klaus’s name, it deserves mentioning, seems to
be consistently mentioned during presentations, as of late. A PLAYER (caps
intended) who I have not had a chance to talk much about took the bronze on
the day with 37 points. The point total is not usually notable, but a guy
usually doesn’t have to shoot gross 69 to achieve it! That’s right
Robert McCarthy is a +(plus) 2! His 2 on Sunday was on a par 4! He, save
perhaps Mike McLaren and Harold’s dreams, might be the finest golfer in
Pattaya. He has been a marvelous addition to the Society both for his golf
and for his infectious enthusiasm.
Wednesday 21 December Khao
Kheow A & B - Yellow or White Tees, Stableford
1st Yellow A Flight: John Emmerson, 40 points
2nd Yellow A Flight: Darren Smith, 38 points
3rd Yellow A Flight: Claus Birk Thomsen, 37 points
1st Yellow B Flight: Emiel Van de Wiele, 38 points
2nd Yellow B Flight: Doug Wade, 37 points
3rd Yellow Flight:Adam Shoenfeld, 36 points
1st White Flight: Mike Criaghead, 38 points
Near Pins: #A8 John Hillier; #B8 Dave Porter
2’s: Yellow: John Emmerson (2), Biran Holden, Robert
McCarthy, John Hillier (2), Bob Philp, David Snell White: None.
The big story of the day is that Mike “The Mechanic”
Craighead took the White Flight. The fact that he was the only one in it
should not denigrate that feat. He could have NR’d. Regrettably, he had
neither the White “2” nor the White Near Pin.
The GM did, as has been his custom of late, show an
uncanny mastery of the Dye designed Khao Kheow layout. This day he bettered
the Yellow-flighted field with 40 points. Big Double D, was two points
adrift with CBT having the better of that Demon Deacon from Wake Forest,
Brian Holden.
Emile Vof W, who just a couple of days earlier may have
had his maiden Society second place, outdid it, and but for Trudy’s rapid
break from the gate, might have had that title slot as he took first in
Yellow B with 38 points. Hawaiian Doug Wade fell a shot shy into second
place with relative new friend, Adam Schoenfeld, in Yellow B third.
Friday 23 December
The Emerald G.C.C. -
White Tees, Stableford
1st A Flight: Ed Wyckoff, 37 points
2nd A Flight: Pat Regan, 36 points
3rd A Flight: Mike Allidi, 36 points
1st B Flight: Linda Lee, 39 points
2nd B Flight: Colin Davis, 39 points
3rd B Flight: Tore Eliassen, 37 points
2’s: Peter Hynard (2), Dave Tanner, Tom Sathrum, Dave Mather(2), Tarja
Kankianen
In a week for the gals, Brian’s better half, Linda took
top rung in B Flight. She put a count back schooling on The Donkey, much to
the joy of all. Tore, who it was previously thought was always a gentleman,
did the unchivalrous thing and prevailed on count back over that Finnish
Femme Fatale, Tarja Kankianen. Fortunately, Tarja garnered a bit of lucre
thanks to a “2” on the day.
Ed Wycoff, a few months short of being a resident of
Pattaya, took the premier Flight with 37 points. Ed’s handicap came down 7
strokes since his last visit thanks to some hard work in his current
residence of Japan. A cascade of 36 points caused a count back which saw the
luck o’ the Irish hold up for Pat Regan and the Luck of the Swiss (?) hold
up for Mike Allidi, and none left for the GM and Dave “I’m Speechless”
Snell.
Stormin’ Norman shines!
IPGC golf from The Haven
Mon 19 December
Bangpra, Stableford
Division 1 (0-17)
1st Al Rolnik: 37
2nd Phil Groves: 35
3rd David Dines: 34
4th Norman Isherwood: 33
Division 2 (18 plus)
1st John Clements: 35, c/b 19
2nd Dave Lee: 35, c/b 17
3rd Alex Tait: 35, c/b 15
4th John Squitero: 33
Another beautiful day for golf, sunny, cool and plenty of
wind. Add a course in excellent condition with fast, true greens, a 30 plus
turnout and the scores must be good... wrong! A great many of the pins had
been placed at the front and as every golfer knows, you must stay below the
pin to stand a chance of making a putt at Bangpra! Just Al Rolnik managed to
beat his handicap and proved a worthy winner in division 1. Scores were much
tighter in division 2 and John just pipped Dave and Alex on countback. Bad
luck Dave, 35 points with four “wipes” and four three putts was a pretty
good score! In the “2”s competition, the division 1 prize was shared by
Al Rolnik, Dave Shaw & Paul Smith whilst nobody carded a “2” in
division 2. Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston, welcomed Paul
Smith & Shane Ruddle and welcomed back Peter Tucker, Tom Parks &
Mark Cooper.
Wed 21 December Crystal
Bay A&B, Stableford
Division 1 (0-13)
1st Norman Isherwood: 41
2nd Brian Wilkinson: 39, c/b23
3rd David Dines: 39, c/b20
4th Paul Avery: 38
Division 2 (14 plus)
1st Dave Spendley: 39
2nd Tom Parks: 38
3rd Birthe Vestegaard: 34
4th Alex Tait: 33
Another large turnout that would have been huge if many
of the Haven stalwarts had participated. Still, conditions were good, but
strange for Thailand, overcast sky, very windy and chilly to the point of
being almost cold! Despite the greens being “electric” fast, scores were
mixed, but Stormin’ Norman shot a superb 80 gross for 41 points to take
the honors in division 1 from Brian and a very unlucky David Dines, who
continues his rich vein of form! Dave Spendley found himself at the top of
the pile in division 2, narrowly seeing off Tom, but with nobody else in
sight! In the “2”s competition, Tony Quaid scooped the rollover jackpot
in division 2, whilst the division 1 prize was shared by Phil Groves, who
carded two, Joe Kirkpatrick and Norman Isherwood. Back at the Haven, Richard
Livingston, clad in an overcoat (whilst everybody else shivered) welcomed
Chris Partridge and Ray Phillips and welcomed back Lars Christensen, Brian
Wilkinson, Mike Gosden, Koji Yamada, Paul Avery & Lee Duneclift.
Fri 23 December
Green Valley, Stableford
Division 1 (0-12)
1st Phil Groves: 38
2nd Jeremy Masse: 32 c/b 19
3rd John Howard: 32 c/b 16, c/b6 14
4th Takeshi Hakozaki: 32 c/b 16, c/b6 10
Division 2 (13 plus)
1st Norman Isherwood: 36 c/b 18
2nd John Draper: 36 c/b 17, c/b6 10
3rd Wilf Latham: 36 c/b 17, c/b6 9
4th Brian Wilkinson: 35
An unusually strong field left the Haven on a slightly
warmer morning, well the outside temperature was 21degrees and the strong
winds had abated a little! Beautiful golfing weather, but who on earth
decided to put the white tees back, well back, especially on the holes with
difficult carry’s over hazards? So it was no wonder that only four golfers
managed to play to their handicap or better! Phil Groves, the swimming
instructor, destroyed the other low handicappers to comfortably take the
honors in division 1, whilst it was a much closer contest in division 2,
with Stormin’ Norman just edging John and Wilf on count back. In the
“2”s competition, Joe Kirkpatrick, Rick Holmes, Takeshi Hakozaki and
Jens Nielsson shared the division 1 prize, but nobody managed to card a
“2” in division 2, so rollover time at Khao Kheaw on Monday. Today was
the final competition in the Haven Order of Merit and with no contenders
figuring, the final placings remained as 1st Micky Moore, 2nd Roy Thornton
and 3rd Trevor Schirmer. Unable to attend the prize giving, Micky telephoned
Richard and asked him to donate his prize to a worthy charity... thank you
Micky for your kind generosity. Prior to the very late presentation due to
road works on Sukhumvit, Richard welcomed Jeremy Masse and John Howard and
welcomed back John & Suzi Lawton.
A large crowd braves the cold at Plutaluang
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday December 20
Plutaluang, Stableford
This being Plutaluang they came crowding in, the queue
for the complimentary breakfast got quite long at times, and even with two
toasters there was a wait and the toaster had no chance of getting cold. Me,
I beat the queue, I got there really early to book them all in, and even had
a couple of cups of coffee. Whilst this may seem unimportant, a full
breakfast inside you before a hard day on the golf course is most important,
it’s a hard life here.
 Tom
Herrington and Glen Cartwright with one of Bert’s friendly staff.
The test for the day was the S & E layouts, quite a
tough 18 holes, and with 10 groups a test for those of us who finished first
and waited in the restaurant. Mind this is not a hard place to wait with the
best prices at any golf course for food and drink. The weather on the day
was cold, breezy and the course was in it’s normal condition. This varies
depending on whom you talk to, suffice to say we always get a good turnout.
At least on this day the course was reasonably quiet, and as it was not
warm, several players missed the long trek to the showers.
Back at Bert’s the food was rapidly vanishing, as there
is nothing like fish and chips on a cold, (for Thailand) day. Then onto the
winners, and in the A Div the winner was Tom Herrington with Stu Thompson in
second and Bob Pearce in third. In the B Div the winner was Glen Cartwright
with Andy Evans in second and Dick Warburg in third.
Next weeks competition will probably be the last at the
location, so we hope to see you in the new year at the new Tropical
Bert’s, nearly opposite Greg’s Kitchen.
T.T.F.N.
Winner A Div: Tom Herrington, Runner up: Stu
Thompson, Third: Bob Pearce
Winner B Div: Glen Cartwright, Runner up: Andy Evans,
Third: Dick Warburg
Near Pin: Eric O’Brien, Steve Hamsted ( 2), John
Wassal, Alan Gummer, Keith Avery, Bob Short, Jan Von Spellen
Long Put: Bob Noble, Eric O’Brien, Colin Cronin, Bob Short.
Champs and
chumps rule the day
Shenanigans Santa’s Scramble
Phoenix Golf and Country Club 20 December - What an
extremely fine day it was at Phoenix, the greens have picked up their
former speed and the lads in charge of pin placement for the day continue
to amaze the golfers with their ingenuity. If there is any problem with the
course it is the sand contractor who must have gotten an extremely good
deal for delivering twice the required amount causing nothing but fried
eggs for anyone unfortunate enough to land in any of the ill prepared
hazards. While this situation caused dismay to a few, the popularity of
this annual event attracted a very sizable turnout and the results showed
the strengths and weaknesses of the competing teams. 
MC
of the day Dennis Willett congratulates the winning team of Simon and Phil
Without a doubt the chumps for the day turned out to be
Trevor and Gerry, the double or nothing team. The popular thought is that
all they lack is talent but they sure can talk a good game.
Congratulations have to go to the winning team in this
2-person scramble event after a birdie blitz on the back nine saw them roll
in with a net score of 63.8. This team, Simon (never a winner) Dutton and
Phil (the monster) Taylor really played exceptionally well and fully
deserved to come in first. Albeit, the second place team of Nick and Ploy
gave them a run for the placing with a fine net 64.2 followed by the
perennial duo of Mikael Andersson and Arthur Hancock with net 65.4 to snag
third place. Pulling down the last spot available, and we don’t mean
fourth, we mean very last were Mosquito Bill Johnston and his mate Dave.
Simon hosted all the players back at Shenanigans with a
lovely assortment of complimentary food and prizes for the winners. The MC
for the day was that respected announcer Dennis Willet and a great job he
did giving away everything but the kitchen sink which happened to be in use
at the time.
All results:
1st place: Simon Dutton /Phil Taylor
2nd place: Nick /Ploy.
3rd place: Mikael/Arthur
Near pins: Lakes 2 - Barry James, Lakes 7 - Neil Mac, Ocean 5 - Ian
Warwick, Ocean 7 - Barry James.
Record turnout at Emerald for pre-Xmas fun
PSC golf from McAllister Bar & Grill
Friday 23 December - With the holiday only 2 days away the
usual suspects and many more turned out for a great day of golf on a day
when the weather was near perfect. Cool and breezy was just the right touch
to make all players very comfortable and thoroughly enjoy their round.
 Des,
Nile and Keith after receiving their rewards for the day from Gerry (far
right) and one of McAllister’s lovely staff members.
A total of 58 players came along to enjoy both the golf
and the hospitality of their host Donald McAllister at his fine
establishment. It takes a while to get so many players around so the early
birds were subjected to a considerable delay to hear the results. Two
flights were organized with the divisions pegged at 0-16 and 17-36.
To ease the long wait, Dennis Willett conducted a lucky draw for those
not in the running whilst the final placings were being compiled. That
completed, Gerry Carpenter finalized the many count backs required and
announced the winners. A similar sized turnout is expected for next week so
come on and join the fun and the competition. Just check in with Dennis or
Gerry on arrival.
The day’s winners were:
A flight:
1st Des Griffith 39 points (hcp10)
2nd Eric O’Brien 39 points (hcp13)
3rd Robert Connely 38 points (hcp +2)
4th Nile Sheehan 37 points (hcp16)
B flight:
1st Keith Hodges 40 points (hcp) 28)
2nd Ian Kidd 35 points (hcp 36)
3rd Herb Scheiterman 34 points (hcp 21)
4th Oddvar Rykke 34 points (hcp 20)
Friends regains first place with two weeks remaining
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
 200
Bowlers - Jim, Rich and Mark (Steinar not shown)
With
only two weeks to go, eight points up for grabs and nine teams still in the
trophy race it is going to be an exciting last two weeks. This week Friends
won four points from Caf้ Ole and moved back into first place. Teuvo
rolled a 539 series, Dang a 502 series and Mark bowled a 202 game for
Friends. Shenanigans, led by Jon’s 518 series, got three points from
Brother D and remain in second place. Three Sisters knocked Mai’s Thai
Restaurant out of first place and down to third as they took all four points
in that match. La bowled a 527 series and Kaew had a 514 pin count for Three
Sisters and their team moved into a tie for fifth. Lenz knocked down 515
pins for Mai’s. Domicil beat VFW Post 9876 three points to one and are in
a tie for fifth place and still in the trophy hunt. Bill Key rolled a 508
series for Domicil. Grape Vine won three points from Café Kronborg. Jim had
a 202 game, 540 series and Kran rolled a 510 series for Café Kronborg but
it was only enough to win one point due to a difference in handicap of 177
pins in favor of Grape Vine. House of the Golden Coin beat Jack & Tar
and got three points in their match. Mio had a 515 series and Paul (P.K.)
added a 513 pin count for Golden Coin. Nok knocked down 520 pins and Mai 508
for Jack & Tar. Spare Bowler’s did well as Steinar had the best
bowling of the day with games of 203, 225 and 205 for a great 633 series and
Rich rolled a 215 game and 528 series
League Table (Week 28)
|
Team
|
Points - 23 Dec
|
Standings
|
Friends
|
4 - 0
|
65 - 47
|
Shenanigans
|
3 - 1
|
64.5 - 47.5
|
Mai’s Thai Restaurant
|
0 - 4
|
62 - 50
|
VFW Post 9876
|
1 - 3
|
61 - 51
|
Domicil
|
3 - 1
|
59 - 53
|
Three Sisters
|
4 - 0
|
59 - 53
|
Brother D.
|
1 - 3
|
56 - 56
|
Café
Kronborg
|
1 - 3
|
53 - 59
|
Grape Vine |
3 - 1 |
53 - 59 |
Café Ole |
0 - 4 |
48 - 64
|
Jack &
Tar |
1 - 3 |
48.5 - 63.5 |
House of the
Golden Coin |
3 - 1 |
43 - 69 |
|
Bens a’ Jingle, and seventeen versions of ‘Jingle Bells’
Mike Franklin
More than a hundred came to Eastern Star to launch the
Christmas festivities by scrambling in the Jameson’s (JIGS if you are a
member) Jinger Bens Christmas Pairs Scramble on Friday December 23. At
registration, Jameson’s lovely manager, Khun Moo, welcomed the players
with a free Irish coffee voucher and a personal ‘Ben’ so they could
routinely Jinger their way to the 10th and hover there for the tournament
starter (Steve Ryser and Mike Franklin alternating the duties) to announce
their presence and hope for a real boomer off the tee. The Clubhouse PA
system performed adequately, as the anticipated Mecca-decibel system from
the local mosque did not arrive, and it was well after dawn anyway. From
08.34 to 11.29 am it was pairs away, flashes of red in the dress or
concealed, and many a jingle on the little gold Bens. In fact, quite a few
players were heard, and some seen, having a little jingle on the course,
much to the amusement of the caddies who pleaded for the boss’s Ben on the
condition it would not replace the well earned tip - as if anyone would even
consider that as an option!
 Tony
Oakes and Bob Pearce, happy winners of the 2005 Jinger Bens Christmas Pairs
Scramble receive their prizes from Mike Franklin (center)
Happily no one was called on the ‘Jinger Bens’ local
rule: A ‘top of the backswing’ jingle incurs two penalty shots and
confiscation of your souvenir Ben, if reported. The knowledge that the
technical prizes were all consumable, kindled great enthusiasm and a
strategic decision by the long hitters on the short par four 12th, as the
nearest the Guinness keg target was at an infuriating180 yards. At least it
gave everyone a chance!
The course was presented well and happily is enjoying
busy days. Eastern Star continues to be one of the best and most hospitable
courses, and possibly the closest you can get to having a ‘home course’
here on the Eastern Seaboard. All credit to Khun Chamnan, Food &
Beverage Manager, who joined in the spirit of the ‘Jinger Bens’ theme by
wearing traditional Thai Jonger Ben balloon trousers. Eastern Star were due
to enter two pairs in the tournament, but a major function later in the day
prevented that, and there were no more tee times available anyway. As
always, full co-operation was gratefully received from General Manager, Khun
Saradej and his team.
Performances on the day were all a bit Seasonal, some
obviously the result of intoxicated swings and even some funny walks to the
tune of ‘The bells are ringing, for me and my partner’, and we can’t
wait to get back to hear the dogs barking version of Jingle Bells again.
However, there were some that were clearly heads down and serious about the
golf: Seasonal course management and all that.
Back at Jameson’s, The Irish pub, it was mayhem. Fight
your way through the Christmas decorations to get to the fish & chips
special or the appetizing and varied menu. The prize-giving over it was time
to draw the valuable scorecard prize of ‘a free carvery every week for a
year’ valued at over 18,000 baht. This was won by Brian Maddox
So that was the Jameson’s Golf wrap for 2005. In 2006 four majors will
feature, one every three months, The first being a ‘Four Fools Eve’
scramble on March 31 and the last another Jinger Bens on December 22.
A Christmas Fayre at Pattana
PSC golf with The Caf้ Kronborg
Monday December 19 Century
Chonburi,
Stableford
The incredibly inexpensive, and in good condition,
Century Chonburi layout was host for a Stableford competition in two
flights, with the split at handicap 18. Aussie Alex Sala took the A Flight
with 38 points, Icelander Kris Helgasson took the second place with 37
points, Takeshi Hakozaki was third with 35 points and Marty Allred was in
fourth with 34 points.
 Dave
presents the Chilcott Cup to Koji.
Big Dane Bent Agerbo took the B Flight with 38 points
ahead of Dr Hans Probst in second with Dave Richardson in Third, both with
34 points and in fourth was Dutchman Henk De Bock, ahead of Uwe Kessler and
Barry Kerr on count backs, all with 33 points.
Near Pin: #4 Johan Reynisson, #7 Gene Rooney, #13 Koji
Yamada, #7 Uwe Kessler
Long Put: #9 & #18 Ted Morris
Thursday December 22
Pattana, Stableford
This annual competition is called Christmas Fayre, it has
been so called for many years. This day goes back many years to an earlier
P.S.C golf chairman when golf was in a gentler mode here and had gone from
Caesar’s Bar to the Cafe Kronborg, and multiple bars were not competing
for the golfers.
At this time the golf ‘supremo’ of P.S.C., Alex
Chilcott, an old fashioned ‘English gentleman’ who ran golf his way,
decided we should celebrate Xmas, and so was not only this competition born,
but also the Chilcott Cup. All players were to bring a wrapped present to do
with golf and at the end would swap gifts in order of your score. Sounds
quaint and so it is, but it works.
On this day the test was to be Pattana A & B layouts
and also a howling wind and what seemed like freezing temperatures. Even the
Northern Europeans wore sweaters and coats, but the ball went ‘walkies’
in the wind. Even if the course was in fine condition, it was a difficult
day.
Sat in the plush restaurant it was noted that the prices
had been reduced from my last visit, and a normal looking menu introduced,
still for the ‘Cheap Charlie” the prices are still a bit of a drain and
I expect they will continue to play Sattahip and Century Chonburi, and why
not. At 96 Baht I suppose a small Heineken is a bit hard to stomach, but for
the committed golfer this is still a fine day all in.
And so to the results, and a better score meant first
pick of the presents. The winner of the Chilcott Cup, with 40 points was
Koji Yamada on his normal trip to win our competitions, second was Thierry
Bibinet with 39 points, third was Alpo Sippolo with 38 points and fourth was
Uwe Kessler with 37 points. Prizes presented and opened, it was time to pay
the bill and face the cold trip back
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: A3 Eric O’Brien, A8 Dave Thomas, B3 Einar Johansson, B9 Brian
Wilkinson
Long Put: A9 Derek Brook, B9 Brian Wilkinson
Steve and Bazz show how it’s done
PSC golf from The Grapevine
Thursday December 22 saw thirty-two Grapevine golfers tee
it up at Pattaya Country Club. We even had some P.S.C. hierarchy there to
swell the numbers. Gerry Carpenter, president of the Sports Club put his
name down and played with some new members, which I am told was appreciated
by his playing partners. On the day, the course was in fair condition. With
the effects of the rain now a thing of the past, it is hoped that more rain
comes sooner rather than later, or hard fairways will be the order of the
day.
Back row
L to R: Jeff W., Barry K., Phil D. and Bob P. Front: young Ben S. and Steve
H.
With the windy conditions, no outstanding scores were
returned, while playing close to your handicap was sure to reap rewards. In
the higher flight (17+) the li’l Aussie battler, Barry Kerr (20) was able
to maintain his concentration long enough to head the flight with a steady
37 points. In second place with 36 pts was Chris John (24) who after
receiving his prizes disappeared, and thus was not there for this deserved
photo opportunity. Phil Dwyer (18) was able to beat out Keith and Doug on a
count back with 35 pts to grab third place. In the low flight Steve Hamstad
(13) played very well in the conditions to record the day’s top score of
38 points, whilst Jeff Wylie picked up second spot with 37 pts. Third place
was again decided by count back on 35 pts with Bob Pearce just edging out
Donald.
The technical prizes of the day were won by Frank K (2),
Paddy, Keith A, Paul, Tony & young Ben Sheehan (12 years old) grabbing
the Near Pins while the Long Putts were picked up by Nile (a.k.a. Blondie
and Ben’s grand-dad) Chris, Paddy & Mike. Lucky draws were won by
Alan, Vince & Tom, much loved in these days of Xmas cheer.
All in all another fine day of golf, and my thanks go to
the manager of Pattaya CC for his cooperation when signing in the Grapevine
golfers. If you would like to join us for a game, come on down to Soi Regent
Marina and sign up, Malcolm will give you all the good oil.
Cheers & good golfing!
Double delight for Eddie Martin
PSC golf with The Bunker.
Crystal
Bay Monday 19 December
The Bunker Boy’s visited the beautiful Crystal Bay golf
course for a Medal competition. With the course in superb condition a stiff
breeze made for a challenging day. The cut was 18 and under and two players
shared third place in the A division with a net score of 76; Brian Walker
and Paul Edgar, second place with net 75 was John King and the winner with
net 73 was John Hughes.
B division saw a tie for second place between husband and
wife Jan and Thea Von Spelling both with scores of net 70 but the round of
the day was a magnificent score of net 66 by Eddie Martin who mastered the
conditions with ease.
Near pins were won by John King, Thea Von Spelling, Tom
Breslin and Brian Rought.
Khaow Kheow
Wednesday 21 December
Today, Khaow Kheow was the venue for a Stableford
competition for the Bunker Boy’s. The cut was 18 and under and Bob Turner
made the windy conditions look easy returning to the clubhouse with 40
Stableford points to win first prize in the A division. Second place went to
William Macey and third prize was claimed by Gary Austin, both with 39 and
38 points respectively.
In the B division first prize was shared by Neil Griffin
and Thea Von Spelling with 36 points each and in joint second place came
Sean McVitty and big Dougy Landsborough with 34 points.
Near pins were claimed by Mark (Charlie) Gooch and two by
Eddie Martin.
Green Valley Friday 23
December
Again tricky windy conditions and a challenging course
proved the downfall of many Bunker golfers but Eddie Martin overcame them to
win the B division with a net 70, second place went to Thea Von Spelling and
Mark (Charlie) Gooch, both with scores of net 71.
In the A division (with the cut at 17 and under) joint
second place was claimed by Roger Privett and Frank Pilkington with net 75
and first prize went to P.J.Redmond returning to form with a very
respectable score of net 74.
Only three par 3 greens were hit with Gary Austin, Roy
Hughes and Frank Pilkington claiming the near pin prizes.
As a reminder during the high season, all golfers must
register for their golf 15 minutes prior to departure time. The Bunker Boys
are located on Soi Chaiyapoon (near X-zyte disco). Monthly golf schedules
are available or consult the Pattaya Mail every week.
A very good
win for Avery
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral
Tuesday, December 20, Khao Kheow’s A and B
nines were the host for the Pattaya Golf Society’s weekly medal outing and
they found the course in good condition with greens, if anything a little
slower than normal. The day was fine and warm and the field was high class
with a host of single handicapped players making the challenge a tense one.
A good player will always succeed at a course that demands accuracy and Khao
Kheow is such a venue, especially the “A” nine with its pinched fairways
and expanses of water. Such was the case this time as three players shared
runners-up place with fine net 73’s, John Cunningham, David Thomas and
Mike Gosden boasting a combined handicap of only twenty-two. In fairness
they had been pushed close by the claims of Koji Yamada and Len Jones and
only slips on the notorious Island Hole had cost them a share of the spoils.
The star of the day was undoubtedly Paul Avery and his net 67 almost defied
belief. As he himself admitted afterwards he could not remember playing so
well, as his gross 76 showed. The twos pot was shared by John Cunningham,
David Thomas and Bob Giddings, whilst the fifteen clubs in Mr. Denis’ bag
promised well for some liquid consolation, as did Les Cox’s absence of
balls after the seventeenth and the high scores of one or two other
“rabbits”. But the Booby Bevy found a suitable winner in the hands of
Ian Howe, the man who had discovered the secret of successful golf, a ball
which would rebound off trees, fences and walls, land at his feet and give
him the opportunity to lose it again. As seasonal thoughts turn to more
traditional values we at the Pattaya Golf Society would like to wish all our
golfing friends the best of New Year’s luck and express our wishes for
enjoyable, if not always successful rounds, on the fairways of life.
Hot Stu on a chilly day
Thursday December 22, the boys of the Pattaya Golf Society left the
warmth of the OK Corral for the very cool surroundings at Crystal Bay to
play their weekly stableford competition. For many it was the coldest day
they could remember in Thailand as a chilly wind blew all day across the
lush fairways and speedy greens of this beautiful course. The “A” and
“B” nines were the allotted challenge and after nine holes a sweatered
Barry Pethig and a shivering Len Jones shared the lead with 22 points each.
Even the northern European players, used to such conditions, were struggling
and only Bob Giddings was able to hang on in touch. As the wind relented,
performances improved and Bill Hewitt, Bob Giddings and Barry Pethig
maintained their momentum to post level par scores of 36 points. Plodding
quietly on throughout was Aussie Stuart Thompson and his 19 - 18 split
warmed the cockles of his heart when he recorded his first solo win with the
PGS with 37 points. The “2”s pot was shared by Mark Graham, Bob Giddings
and Len Jones whilst poor John Cunningham had no luck on the greens,
recording three “blobs” for the first time in living memory, and
received the Booby Bevy but for Stuart Thompson it was seasonal cheers all
the way.
Golfing by the sea in 2006 tees off with the Royal Trophy
Europe vs. Asia Golf Championship
One of the world’s most famous golfers, Severiano
Ballesteros, the champion of 3 British Opens and 2 US Masters, is the brain
behind the unique The Royal Trophy Europe vs. Asia Golf Championship to be
held at Thailand’s new world-class private club, Amata Spring Country Club
in Chonburi over the weekend 7-8 January 2006. This world-class golf course
will be where top golfers from Europe and Asia compete to find which
continent will come out on top. It is the first time golf champions from
these two worlds meet and compete in an international team format.
Apart from the exciting tournament, there will be
activities with the media, a Pro-Am tournament and a golf clinic. Competing
for the European team will be 6 times major winner, Nick Faldo, ex- US
Masters winner Ian Woosnam and current top European stars, Thomas Bjorn,
Paul McGinley and 2005 Chinese Open winner David Howell. Thailand will be
well represented in the Asian team with Thongchai Jaidee and 2005 Asian Tour
order of merit winner Thaworn Wiranchant leading the way.
 Sponsors
of the tournament include Heineken, BMW Thailand, Tourism Authority of
Thailand (TAT), Siam Commercial Bank and i-mobile. Tickets for the Royal
Trophy are on sale at Thai Ticket Master (www.thaiticketmaster.com or call
+662 262 3456) and Supersport stores. For further tournament information,
please call +662 640 8197 or visit the official website
www.TheRoyalTrophy.com. The Royal Trophy is organised by Entertainment Group
Limited and Amen Corner and sanctioned by the Asian, Japan and European
Tours.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Last effort of the year: Tomorrow night the lads and
lasses will be toasting the end to 2005 and saying “hello to 2006”.
Why? Cause that’s the way it ought to be. May both my loyal readers have
a very Happy New Year! Who would they be? Well there’s Dapper Dave
Stewart who puts his 17 and “naught” record on the line against Danny
Hunt on January 27th at the Hennessy Sports York Hall. The winner gets
British Lightweight champ Graham Earl. The press is saying of Hunt “The
Southend twenty four year old’s tune-up against Jon Honney a month ago
should help Hunt from being rusty against Stewart but the unbeaten six foot
lightweight from Scotland is on an altogether different level from
journeyman Honney.” Go get’em Dave.
Happy New Year to Monkey House Fred who is not only a
good friend but also supplies material for free that I get paid for. Heck
of a deal. Then there’s Stefan the Lord of Pattaya sitting in his
palatial condo hoping my next visit will be when he’s back in Sweden.
Seems he owes me from a bet on the last World Cup of soccer. USA went
farther than Sweden. Will I bet this time? Don’t be silly. A Happy New
Year to “Old Rugged” Cross a true boxing fan whose knowledge and
enjoyment of the sport is unequaled and also to Patrick the Flying Frog,
one of the really good guys. Last but by no means least,a special Happy New
Year to all the ladies of Pattaya who walk to music and make life worth
living.
How would your life change if you were former two-time
world champion Graciano Rocchigiani and won a $31 million (USD) judgment
against the WBC? Yes collecting may have been a problem but you did win the
money. Well not at all it seems. The former champ has been sentenced to a
six-month prison sentence for drunk driving. First time? Nope. Same deal
back in 2001. One would think that with $31 million he’d be able to
afford a driver. It looks like Rocchigiani has squandered his good fortune
just as he did his talent when he was active as a professional boxer.
One that probably won’t squander his second chance is
“Baby” Joe Mesi the 29-0 heavyweight who’s had his career put on hold
by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.. Baby Joe’s last fight was
against Vassiliv Jirov (33-2) in March of 2003. While Mesi won a unanimous
decision (94-93 on all cards), towards the end of the 10 rounder he was in
serious danger of getting KO’d. Medical tests later found some swelling
around the brain. As everyone knows, swelling of the brain only occurs, as
in getting smarter, with the proper amount of “brain liquid” sometimes
enhanced with “ladies that walk to music.”
The Nevada State Athletic Commission put Mesi on
‘permanent medical suspension’. A Las Vegas judge has since ruled that
the NSAC acted improperly and must lift the ban forthwith. As Mesi’s
license has expired he may apply to any state for a new one, which will
have to be honored if approved. Mesi’s manager/trainer father Jack said,
“We are still undefeated and look forward to fighting for the
Championship of the world.” Got to love manager/trainer/fathers. “We
are undefeated.” That’s like saying “Me and Pa killed a bear”.
The new 7-foot WBA heavyweight champion Nicolav Valuev
is the butt of jokes throughout the world at the moment. Why? Well you
could start with the fact that he’s a freak show, with really limited
boxing abilities who is the world champion for reasons that escape most
boxing fans. His hometown crowd in Berlin booed the decision that gave him
the belt. The best punch of the evening was when Valuev’s corner man,
Hagen Sevecke landed a solid left to the jaw of Ruiz’ manager/trainer
Norman Stone. Stone fought back well to get a draw for the less than one
minute round. Stone was quoted as saying “You can’t win a fight in
Germany unless you knock the guy out.” I guess he admits he got beat.
Ex-Champ John Ruiz like all boxers has a selective memory. “”Boxing is
the only sport where you can get robbed without a gun.” Guess he’s
never been to divorce court or had a Tee Rok change her mind about “I
love you all my heart forever.”
Ruiz also put forward the opinion that “these
decisions are what is hurting boxing”. Nice try but Ruiz has gotten some
decisions that he didn’t deserve. The second Holyfield fight where not
only did Ruiz have a couple of judges on his side but also the referee is
but one example. “My promoter, Don King, should do his job and get a
rematch”. Is there any doubt Valuev had to sign away 50% of his next 4
fights to King in order to get Ruiz? King will take the show on the road to
Las Vegas. King never missing a chance has dubbed Valuev “King Kong.”
Bring it on.
WBC Heavyweight Champ Hasim Rahman and James “Lights
Out’ Toney will get it on March 18 in Atlantic City; no purse bids will
be necessary as Top Rank’s Bob Arum came up with the foldin’ green.
“We gave them enough money to satisfy King, Goossen and Toney and we’re
promoting the fight,” Arum said. “We’re going to pay Rahman and
we’re delighted to be the promoter of this heavyweight championship
match.” Arum recently won the right to promote Rahman.
To end the year I might as well end it the way it
started. As mentioned Jean-Marc Mormeck the WBC/WBA cruiserweight champ
defends in the USA against IBF Champ O’Neil “Ring My” Bell on January
7. Seems that the Frenchman has a problem in that he doesn’t have a
nickname like all ‘name fighters’. Got to have that nickname. Cable
TV’s Showtime, which will televise the contest, is running a competition
to come up with a nickname. It’s been narrowed to five at this juncture.
What are they? “The Marksman”, “Mighty”, “The Wrecker”, “The
Black Thunder” and “Hit the Deck”
No offense but those names stink. Let’s look at the
facts. Mormeck is a native born Frenchman and a champion. The Square Ring
encourages readers to come up with a nickname. My suggestion? How about
Jean-Marc “The wine swilling-garlic breathed-surrender monkey” Momeck?
Works for me!
Time to start welcoming in the New Year. “Yes Garcon,
a bottle of your finest, one of those silly little hats and a noise maker.
Yes #23 will do me just fine.”
A toast to you 2005 and look out 2006
The Beautiful Game?: Out with the old - 2005 Premiership review
Riz Taylor
Another year comes to a close in the Premiership, one
that will be remembered for bringing about a changing of the guard. The rise
and rise of Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea and a slow but steady improvement of
Liverpool under fellow newcomer Rafael Benitez has coincided with the fall
in fortunes of the previous ‘top dogs’. It’s not over just yet for
Arsenal and Manchester United, but both find themselves at a crossroads as
they head into 2006 as weaker sides than twelve months ago.
Chelsea began 2005 where they would finish it, deservedly
sat at the head of the Premiership table, and wouldn’t concede another
goal until mid-March. In the January transfer window Real Madrid would
surprisingly move for a bemused Thomas Gravesen, leaving a hole in the
Everton midfield that has yet to be properly plugged. Robbie Savage would
decide to leave Birmingham City to link up with former Welsh national coach
Mark Hughes at Blackburn Rovers.
In fact, 2005 could be seen as the year of the central
midfielder. Everton aren’t the only club still searching for someone to
boss things in the middle. The final act in an Arsenal shirt for Patrick
Vieira was, fittingly, to slam the ball home to snatch the FA Cup away from
a Manchester United side that had dominated the match. Vieira’s surprise
departure to Juventus during the summer would also bring headaches for
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, who must now attempt to replace the
irreplaceable. The combination of Matthieu Flamini and Cesc Fabregas looks
promising during the absence of Gilberto, but what Arsenal need is instant
success if they’re to hang onto other talents such as Thierry Henry and
Ashley Cole, both of whom are linked with moves to Spain after the World
Cup. Henry, in particular, looks certain to leave for Barcelona. With a
strong chance of medals, great weather and the World Footballer of the Year
in Ronaldinho supplying the ammunition, few could blame him.
Arsenal’s problems seem almost insignificant alongside
those of ‘Man yoo’ as the locals call them here in Thailand. Michael
Glazer stepped up his interest in the club during the first half of the year
before quickly taking a majority shareholding and removing the club from the
stock market in July. Fans complained to whoever would listen over
Glazer’s heavy borrowing that has plunged football’s financial success
story into huge debt, but no amount of protesting could halt the American.
Some turned away from the club in disgust to follow FC United, a new outfit
set up in the North West Counties League for the ‘real’ football fans.
By all accounts they are enjoying themselves too.
Roy Keane would leave United after one too many public
dressing downs of his team-mates, leaving Alex Ferguson with the same
headache as Wenger, Steve Bruce and David Moyes - how to fill that
all-important midfield gap. The temporary answer is Alan Smith, but how
Ferguson must rue being beaten to the signature of Michael Essien by Chelsea
in the summer months. United will head into 2006 without the prospect of any
European football after failing to make the next round of the Champions
League. Essien, meanwhile, faces a long-term battle to displace Claude
Makelele at Stamford Bridge - a man who has even had a position named after
him.
Newcastle United would endure a turbulent year. The
defining moment came in March after team-mates Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer
decided to sort out their differences in front of 50,000 dismayed fans and
the TV cameras. Both grovelled and apologised after their scuffle but by
then the damage was done, helping cement the average fan’s distaste for
rich and stupid modern footballers. Graeme Souness would continue to clear
out the old guard by moving Craig Bellamy onto Blackburn, and in July would
surprise everyone. “Owen’s gone to Newcastle!” would be the text
message buzzing around mobile phones for a day or two as the little hitman
left Madrid. Souness clung onto his job as the year progressed but an
improvement in fortunes thanks to three of his signings in Owen, Nobby
Solano and Scott Parker might have seen Newcastle turn the corner.
Still, if Newcastle are slowly losing their comedy
status, we can at least rely on the chairman to embarrass both himself and
his club. The man who once ridiculed Newcastle’s supporters for buying
merchandise was asked to respond to the worries of football’s future in
the lower divisions. “When we have got 52,000 fans at each home game, the
last thing we are worried about is clubs in the third division. There is no
sympathy here,” he said, forgetting where Newcastle were not so long ago.
Whilst Chelsea ran away with their first title in 50
years that was secured by April, Everton managed to scrape in ahead of
Liverpool for the coveted fourth position that delighted their fans. Bolton
and Middlesbrough also quietly qualified for the UEFA Cup and both are
through to the last 32 of the competition which continues in February. These
two sides look to have bright futures under bright young managers, both of
whom will be considered as replacements for Sven Goran Eriksson after
England unluckily get knocked out in the World Cup quarter finals this
summer following a disallowed Sol Campbell header.
The same can be said of Manchester City. Kevin Keegan
surprised everyone by walking out on City in March, but then again was it
really that astonishing to see Keegan walk out on a club when things got
tough? The City board ummed, aahed, and then appointed Stuart Pearce as
Keegan’s replacement. The results have been astonishing. Pearce, who had
quietly spent years gaining the highest football coaching qualifications,
almost lifted City from nowhere into the European places. Despite losing
Shaun Wright-Phillips (remember him?) to moneybags Chelsea in the summer,
Pearce brought in faces such as Darius Vassell and Andy Cole who have helped
revitalise the club.
Tottenham continued to buy anyone and everyone. Edgar
Davids would finally be the big name that the fans craved, and he would link
with young British talent such as Ledley King, Paul Robinson, Aaron Lennon
and Michael Dawson in a White Hart Lane revolution led by likeable Dutchman
Martin Jol that looks bound for European competition at last.
Charlton flattered to deceive once again, whilst we lost
Norwich City and Crystal Palace to the Championship. Joining them were
Southampton, perennial flirters with relegation who enjoyed an ‘annus
horribilis’ after chairman Rupert Lowe lost and found a succession of
managers. The drama is still far from over on the South Coast after Harry
Redknapp decided to re-ignite his love affair with Portsmouth three weeks
ago. On the plus side we’ve seen the return of Sunderland (though it looks
like a fleeting visit) alongside West Ham United and the surprise outfit of
2005, Wigan Athletic.
The year might have belonged to midfielders - Frank
Lampard and Steven Gerrard continued to make headlines - but John Terry was
voted PFA Player of the Year. The exploits of Terry and his Chelsea defence
summed up the Premiership for the year - can anyone find a way past Jose
Mourinho’s side? It doesn’t seem so. But then, not so long ago, we were
saying the same thing about Manchester United and Arsenal. One thing
that’s certain for 2006 is another year of uncertainty. See you there.
Quiz Answer
By the way, to answer last week’s question, the three European nations
to feature lions on their shirts are England, Scotland and Holland. Happy
New Year!
Treasure hunters set sail off Jomtien beach
Annual windsurfing event heads for Larn Island
Local and international windsurfing
enthusiasts laid course for Larn Island in the Island Treasure Hunt Race
2005 after a running start on the sands in front of the Pattaya Park hotel.
The annual event, now in its fifth year was organized by the Amara Sailing
Center and held last weekend, 24-25 December. 
Windsurfers
break out to the beach at the start of the Treasure Hunt event.
Competitors from all age groups and nationalities took to
the water in three classes: Youth, Open men’s and women’s with only one
person being declared the overall champ.
Shortly after midday, windsurfers lined up for a running
start before making their way along the coast to the Royal Varuna Yacht Club
and across to Larn island in search of treasure. The 20 kilometer-plus
course was challenging enough, but the extra difficulty of windsurfers
having to carry back the items collected on route made the race more
exciting.
Even with extremely light winds, the event was a great success and the
kids in particular all had a ball. At the last minute, a Junior Chance Class
competition was added for the very young kids whose parents work on the
beach. 12 years old Maan pumped the whole way round the slalom course and
was going to go again until we stopped him and told him he had won already.
The main prize for the fun two-day event went to Prah Pat of the Thai
National team
Bowlers brave the cold at fun event
Nick the pizza’ lawn bowls - Team Challenge
Over the last weekend, the Bowling Green Pattaya held the
inaugural ‘Nick the Pizza’ Team Bowling Challenge. 36 bowlers in 12
teams of three braved the cold conditions last Thursday 22 December, to
attempt to become the first winners of this fun event.
As the competition was arranged in a straight knockout
format, the bowling had a keener edge than normal but for the first round
losers, there was the consolation of playing a separate tournament for the
‘losers’ plate.
By the third day of the tournament, the weather had
warmed up somewhat but many of the favoured names had already fallen by the
wayside. The final saw the teams of Dr. ‘D’, Alec and George take on the
talented trio of Albert, Tommy and Thanon. Despite a brave fight by the
latter team, Dr. ‘D’ was able to rally his troops for one final effort
and they were able to pip their opponents at the post and become the
inaugural Nick the pizza team bowling champions.
For Nick himself, the final day proved to be a fruitful
one too as his team, comprising of himself, Theo and Barry stormed home in
the losers plate event.
The presentations and awards ceremony was conducted in
fading light outside the clubhouse and a big thanks was given to the
organizers and the main sponsor Nick, who handed out the trophies along with
pizza vouchers. Everyone who took part will look forward to returning next
year to do it all again.
Sports Quiz
Congratulations to Steve Johnson for being the first to
answer last week’s questions correctly. Thank you to all who tried and if
you didn’t win, better luck next time. In case you were wondering about
the answers, here they are:
1) When was the first FA Cup Final held at Wembley?
Answer: 1923
2) Who won the World Matchplay Championship in 2002 and 2003 at Wentworth?
Answer: Ernie Els
3) Who was the first American to win the Formula One Championship?
Answer: Phil Hill
This weeks Questions are:
1) Who won the Cricket County Championship in 2000?
2) Which player has scored the most FA Cup Final Goals?
3) Who won the Men’s 400m at the Paris Olympics in 1924?
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