SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Young tennis players gather at Royal Cliff for annual championship

MTB Eastern Championships kick-start this weekend

Sport Bag

Walk rally & mini marathon mark opening of Suvarnabhumi Airport

John Teague scores a Hat Trick

Chris pips Ian for the Medal

The Beautiful Game?

‘The Valley’ refuses to bow to Kronborg challenge

Roy leads the way as Paul gets stuck on the ‘ropes’

A bad day at the Office?

PGS win Matchplay Challenge

Captain Bob steers for the winner’s enclosure

Triple winners in the 2-man scramble

The Simple Simon Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League

The Square Ring

Ken shines at Eastern Star

Down Under on top at the Navy

Americans love eagles, so Tom obliged at Khao Kheow

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Young tennis players gather at Royal Cliff for annual championship

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Pattaya’s 5th Junior Tennis Championship took place at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort’s tennis courts on September 9 and 10, an event supported by the Pattaya Tennis Association and presided over by the hotel’s general manager Alexander Haeusler.

Many young, enthusiastic tennis players attended the competition, all of them vying to become the next Paradorn or Tammarind
Winners of the under-8 years boy-girl bracket were Master Pran Pakdeekicharoen and Miss Panchaya Tongsingh. In the under-10 years boy-girl categories, the winners were Master Paramin Plodpai and Miss Kamolwan Buayaem.
Master Pan Rangsiborirak and Miss Thanaporn Tongsingh won in the under-12s category. In the under-14s event, the winners were Master Adirek Khundanpinitwong and Miss Nathawadee Kotcha, and in the under-16s the winners were Master Pakathorn Chanchaem and Miss Supakan Charoensuk.
The winners and runners up all received scholarships and trophies and 3rd place winners received certificates.


MTB Eastern Championships kick-start this weekend

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Mayor Niran presided over a press meeting at Pattaya City Hall, Sept. 12, to announce the upcoming start of the spectacular annual mountain bike event, the “MTB Eastern Championships 2006”, which is being held over four different courses in Chonburi and Rayong and gets underway this Saturday, Sept. 23 at the New Recruit Training Center, Sattahip.

Saturday sees the start of one of the main MTB events in Thailand this year.

The mountain bike challenge is a major event in the Thai cycling calendar and has drawn a prize fund of over 100,000 baht plus the much-coveted HRH Princess Sirindhorn Cup, which will be presented to the winner. Following on from Saturday’s race, the event will move to Pluak Daeng, October 7, Silver Lake Orchard on Nov. 4 and will finally reach it’s conclusion at Pattaya City’s Bali Hai Pier on December 9. Each of the courses has been chosen to provide a different and unique challenge to the riders who will be split into the following three categories: professional over 18s, youth under 12s and tourists.
In addition to the excitement generated by the competition, organizers have also pledge to donate 20% of all proceeds garnered from the four events to local charities, with the remainder going to the Chai Pattana Foundation.


Sport Bag: A message from the Pattaya Sports Club

In response to Harvey S’ letter published last week on the subject of handicaps, I concur 100% with his thoughts. Unfortunately, the manipulators will find a way around any system in the world.
Pattaya Sports Club are members of the USGA and as such are governed by their rules which require all golfers to submit their scores for all games. We receive scores from bars, individuals, and also the internet and this does place a level of honesty on players.
At PSC we operate a system that segregates competition and friendly games and as such have a chance of noting the manipulators and dealing with them accordingly. Also for our monthly tournaments, the latest handicap listings are downloaded and amalgamated so that players with two handicaps can be highlighted and made to play off their lowest handicap. Players themselves know they have to play off their lowest handicap, it’s not rocket science - its honesty, but sadly the pot hunters are prepared to risk their reputation for a small return.
At the PSC we are trying all we can to eradicate the manipulators from our membership and with over 1,000 scores input each week, we try to serve the 99.9% of our members who are decent people who play the game.
My ambition as Handicap Secretary is for all golfers to stand on the first tee and think they have an even chance of winning. Unfortunately, the manipulators make that an enormous task.
Tony Oakes
PSC Handicap Secretary


Walk rally & mini marathon mark opening of Suvarnabhumi Airport

Chotisak Asapaviriya (back row, 5th left) President of Airports of Thailand PLC recently presided over the presentation ceremony of a Walk Rally & Mini Marathon Run to celebrate the 60th anniversary of H.M. the King’s accession to the throne and also to mark the opening of Suvarnabhumi Airport this month. Thirakiati Chirathivat (back row, 4th left) Vice President-Procurement of Central Hotels & Resorts, was also on hand to present accommodation awards to all 13 winners of the event.
The walk and run was organized by the Airports of Thailand and the Tourism Council of Thailand, and all the proceeds will be presented to H.M. the King.


John Teague scores a Hat Trick

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, September 11, Bangpra, Stableford
1st Russell Exley, 40
2nd Peter Aitcheson, 37
3rd John Teague, 36
Russell Exley started off a very good week at Bangpra, where the conditions were fairly difficult following the heavy rains. And even with the greens not being quite as fast as some of the other courses played of late they were still hard enough to cause the majority of the field problems that proved almost too much to resolve.
No so for Russell, who cruised round as if it were one of the easiest courses and took top spot by three points from Peter Aitcheson who was making an infrequent visit to the podium. John Teague took the first of his week’s triple with a very steady even par.
There were no “twos” in the Second Division but Trevor Schirmer and Kris Kritsanajootha shared the pool in the premier flight.
Before presenting the prizes Richard Livingston, the resident PGA teaching professional, welcomed back Dave Spendley, John Teague, Robert Webb and Al Rolnik.
Wednesday, September 13, Noble Place, Stableford
1st Russell Exley, 43
2nd Nigel Burnett, 37
3rd John Teague, 30 c/b 16
4th Tom Sathrum, 30 c/b 14
Leaving The Haven in driving rain may well have seemed an extraordinary act of faith, but as so often happens in the area, by the time the players had traveled half way to the course the sky was clear and not a drop of rain fell while the rest of the region experienced floods of almost biblical proportions.
Once again it was Russell Exley that headed the field over the A and C courses at the pristine Noble Place. He shot another outstanding round that saw him lay waste to everyone else’s efforts, and won by a huge margin of six shots over second place and all of thirteen from the next best. With the course playing about as long as it can off the white tees and practically zero run on sodden fairways it was a tremendous round and one sure to bring him sharply into focus with the handicap committee.
Nigel Burnett showed just why he is a category one handicapper to get it round in one under his allowance and easily take second place but was unable to get anywhere near Russell’s score.
John Teague took the second of his triple placings during the week but this time with a much reduced performance, although it was good enough on the day and the count back was handily won by two from Tom Sathrum.
There were no “twos” in the First Division but Russell Exley added to his day’s pile with the only one in the Second Division and celebrated with an additional blow of the horn.
Prior to the prize giving Richard welcomed new members Dave Roberts, Ian Hendry and Robert Kelly and also welcomed back Nigel Burnett.
Friday, September 15, Burapha A & B, Stableford
1st John Teague, 38
2nd Tony Barritt, 36 c/b 20
3rd Barry Traynor, 36 c/b 18
4th Dave Spendley, 36 c/b 15
John Teague took his third podium position of the week, but this final effort was the best of the bunch and was good enough to take the winner’s spoils by two clear strokes. Tony Barritt, who was desperate to perform well in his last outing from The Haven for a little while could only manage second spot. Tony is set to return to England for a little R & R following the renovations to his new home and unfortunately for him, he was caught watching his playing partners and allowed John to slip past him on the last two holes.
Barry Traynor, having lost out to Tony in the count back for second, managed to close out Dave Spendley also on count back by three and secure third place.
Russell Exley was in the favourite’s position after his wins in the first two competitions of the week, but having been coached by his playing partner, Tony Barritt, as to the likely outcome if he were to win a third in a row, his mind was not on the project at hand and he faded badly over the last few holes. Consolation of sorts came in the form of a lesser reduction of his handicap - only three shots in the week.
There were no “twos” in the Second Division but Dave Stockman and Ron Bridge shared the pool in the First Division with one a piece.
Back at The Haven Richard welcomed back Frank Hughes, Henrik Brahe and Ole Svenningsen and also said a few words to the departing Bill Hayes and Tony Barritt.


Chris pips Ian for the Medal

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, September 10, Green Valley - White Tees, Monthly Medal
A Flight:
1st Chris Stewart, net 67 - Medal Winner
2nd Jack Grindvold, net 68
3rd Darren Smith, net 70
B Flight:
1st Ian Grout, net 67 - Medal Qualifier
2nd George Jackson, net 68
3rd Jan Eriksen, net 68
C Flight:
1st Nat Meesuk, net 70
2nd Alec Hoare, net 71
3rd Emiel Van de Wiele, net 72
D Flight;
1st Peter Ring, net 69
2nd Fred Theobald, net 73
3rd Mol Thongkiew, net 74
Near Pins: #2: Darren Smith; #9: John Emmerson, #12: Roy Thornton; #16: Jan Eriksen
2’s: Jack Grindvold, Darren Smith, Roy Thornton, Mark Wood, John Emmerson, George Jackson, Jan Eriksen (2), Peter Ring, Sugar Ray Handford, Dave Morrwo.
Two advance to the Gold but only one to the Wall and off with the Crystal vase. Aussie Chris Stewart prevailed on the dreaded count back over Ian “The Tile” Grout. Ian did not go quietly into the night on the count back though as he shot 40, net 33 on the inward nine. That would typically spell doom for a low 6 handicapper like Chris. However, Chris proved every bit up to it as he came home with a gross 34, net 31 masterpiece.
Trailing Chris in A Flight was Wacko Jacko, whom we are happy to report has returned from Sweden with a clean bill of health. WJ had a fine 68, certainly good enough to win on many other Monthly Medal days. Big Darren “Double D” Smith tidied up the Premier Flight with a net 70.
Ian’s winning B Flight score was likewise followed in by what appeared to be the requirement of the day to finish second in the top two flights, that is, a slight chemical imbalance, as One Ball himself had a 68. That story line would have been lost if The Quiet One, Jan Eriksen, with yet another near miss 68, had prevailed on count back.
Skipping to the Junior Flight, “the title holder was anything but a junior, as septuagenarian Peter Ring showed fine form with a net 69 (and a 2!). No clearer example of what is meant by “age before beauty” could be set out than the order of D flight’s second place/third place as Uncle Fred had the silver and the lovely Ms. Mol the bronze.
The Nat(ural) linked Sunday’s C Flight win with last Friday’s Scramble victory as her net 70 was good enough to edge Irishman Alec Hoare. The same margin separated Alec from Belgian Emiel Van de Wiele.
Tuesday, September 12, St. Andrews 2000 - White Tees, Stableford
1st Martin Todd, 39 points
2nd Klaus Schackt, 39 points
3rd Gareth Gill, 38 points
4th Oddvar Rykke, 36 points
2’s: Kris Kritsanajootha, Rick Brand.
It has its detractors, but St. Andrews 2000 provides a marvelous test and enhances the golf diversity of Eastern Seaboard. The Society doesn’t play it often, perhaps not often enough, but a fine field was willing to take on the challenge.
A four place field was led by low handicapper Martin Todd who had a fine 39 points, off a three over gross 77 performance. He still needed a count back to have the better of the Volkscomputer whose calculations undoubtedly made for deft course management. Big Gareth “Gigi” Gill was but a point behind the top two with a 38 count. Oddvar Rykke, who the Society is waiting to improve that plus 20 handicap, was the recipient of the unusual fourth place prize.
Wednesday & Thursday, September 12/13, Soi Dao Highlands - White Tees, Stableford & 2-Day Eclectic
Day One
A Flight
1st Simon Philbrook, net 68
2nd John McHugh, net 68
3rd Mark Wood, net 73 - c/b Tom Fanning
B Flight
1st Emiel Van de Wiele, net 71
2nd Mike Craighead, net 72
3rd Peirre Bietry, net 75 - c/b Irnie
2’s: Simon Philbrook, John McHugh, Nat Meesuk.
Day Two
A Flight
1st Simon Philbrook, net 71
2nd Colin Davis, net 72
3rd Mark Wood, net 73
B Flight
1st Matt “Irnie” McInerney, net 66
2nd Adam Schoenfeld, net 71
3rd Mol Thongkiew, net 72
2’s: Colin Davis, Chris Stewart
Eclectic
1st Simon Philbrook, net 62
2nd Colin Davis, net 63
3rd Mark Wood, net 65
4th Matt “Irnie” McInerney, net 65
5th Adam Schoenfeld, net 65
6th Mol Thongkiew, net 65
About 30 golf-playing lads and lasses, some accompanied by significant others, embarked on a two day, one night sortie to Shangri-La like Soi Dao Highlands. The results of that journey may well serve notice that it is time for this Scribe to pass on the mantle indicative of being the Sultan of Soi Dao.
Simon of Philbrook, who judging from his title already holds some position in his native England, made a strong bid that he should now wear that coveted local mantle. He not only won both the Day One and Day Two competitions, but snatched the two-day Eclectic title as well. The latter, in particular, is no small task for a low handicapper like Simon.
Mark Wood, another low digit guy, was the only other player to show on all three ledgers with three bronzes. Tom Fanning tried to thwart the bid of The Pride of Aberdeen early on Day One but fell to a count back. The best single round of The Road Trip was shaped by Matt “Irnie” McInerney who shot a net 66, a factor that would lower his handicap by four strokes by week’s end.
Friday, September 15, Phoenix - White Tees, Stroke/Medal
Blue Flight
1st John McHugh, net 67
2nd Matt “Irnie” McInerney, net 68
White Flight
1st Jan Eriksen, net 68
2nd Mark Wood, net 69
3rd Don Lehmer, net 71
4th Kevin Moraghan, net 71
2’s: Mark Wood, Don Lehmer, Ron Allan.
After a week of St. Andrews 2000 and Soi Dao Highlands, a trip to well manicured but somewhat forgiving Phoenix was a bit of a respite. Of course, leave it to the GM, it was “toughened up’ by making the comp Stroke/Medal.
It didn’t seem to faze Johnny McHugh, as he nipped his mate Irnie McInerney by a single swipe to take the Blue Flight, net 67 to net 68. In the White Flight, the Quiet One snuck one past The Pride with his net 68. The Lady’s Man had the better of a count back over Lt. Col. Kevin Moraghan (Ret.), but the latter still received a retirement supplement as fellow olive drab mate, the GM, went four deep.


The Beautiful Game?: More goals please

Riz Taylor
Manchester United versus Arsenal. For years it was the Premiership’s showpiece match, yet since the departure of fiery twosome Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira it’s doesn’t seem quite the same anymore. Shame, because the first fifteen minutes of Sunday’s encounter at Old Trafford were a throwback to the good old days before the match settled into a shadow of the mid-nineties clashes that were so enthralling. Not that Arsenal fans will mind that - Emmanuel Adebayor’s winner on 85 minutes saw the Gunners haul themselves out of the relegation places after a dreadful start to the season.
Keane, appearing as a TV pundit, gave an insight into how it used to be: “Arsenal was always the game as a player. It was the game I looked forward to at the beginning of the season. For players and fans it was like going into battle.”
But if United and Arsenal failed to spark into life it was positively enthralling next to the earlier clash between Chelsea against Liverpool. In 90 minutes of yawn-inducing football at Stamford Bridge the only two moments to awaken me from my vegetative state were Didier Drogba’s fabulous winner and the sending off of German international Michael Ballack for a stamp on Mohammed Sissoko.
Staggeringly Rafa Benitez has failed to announce an unchanged line-up in Liverpool’s previous 90 matches, and it’s this lack of any consistency that sees the Scousers settled nicely into the bottom six. They’ll take on Spurs tomorrow, no doubt with a few changes from the midweek game against Newcastle, knowing that only a staggering run will leave them with any chance of battling for the league title.
Liverpool’s disappointment was matched by my own. It was a miserable weekend for the barstool viewer. I sat through four live matches and witnessed only two goals, whilst the other six produced no less than sixteen. Pah!
Five games into the season it’s Portsmouth - yes, that’s Portsmouth - who are sitting pretty at the top of the Premiership. Victory over a lacklustre Charlton at the weekend sealed top spot, Lomana Lua Lua grabbing a winner after coming on a substitute. Harry Redknapp’s side have ridden their luck at times this season, but you can’t argue with their record, which stands at four wins from five and zero in the conceded column. Pompey face Bolton on Tuesday morning, Pattaya time.
In Scotland it’s another ‘Old Firm’ derby this weekend, with former Lyon and now Rangers boss Paul le Guen about to experience his first taste of the famous fixture.
Current Scotland manager Walter Smith has put the task into perspective. “Even when you won there was no instant feeling of joy or celebration,” he said. “The overwhelming sensation was relief because all you knew was that you hadn’t lost. It was the same if you drew, even though that result might have been more of a help to the other side.”
Robbo leaves The Hawthorns
West Bromwich Albion coach Bryan Robson has parted company with the club by ‘mutual consent’, the Championship outfit announced on Monday. Robson, who had been in the hot seat for almost two years, had come under pressure after home fans demanded his head during the Baggies’ 1-1 draw with Southend on Saturday.
“The board would like to thank Bryan Robson for his efforts during his 22 months in charge and wishes him well for the future,” said a club statement.
Chairman Jeremy Peace added: “After much deliberation, and in view of the results since early 2006, it has been decided that a change is necessary if the club is to achieve its aims for this season and beyond. This is a very important time for West Bromwich Albion. With promotion a priority, the board felt that, given the club’s current league position, the best way forward was to agree to make a change now.”
Nigel Pearson will take control of the first team until a successor to Robson is appointed. Early speculation links former Charlton manager Alan Curbishley with the post. Yeah, right. If that happens I’ll pen the following week’s column in Russian.
Given out for three months
Shay Given could be out for up to three months after a nasty collision with West Ham man-mountain Marlon Harewood on Sunday that ended in a hospital visit.
The goalkeeper will also miss Ireland’s Euro 2008 qualifiers with Cyprus and the Czech Republic. Given had an emergency op on a ruptured bowel on Sunday night after the collision during Newcastle’s 2-0win at Upton Park.
Long-term standby goalie Steve Harper will deputise in his absence. Manager Glenn Roeder said, “Shay is comfortable and will have a short stay in hospital. We are lucky to have Steve as our No 2. He’d be No 1 at a lot of clubs.”
Roeder, who absolved Harewood of blame, said: “The surgeon said he has never seen an injury like this happen through football. He has seen it happen in car crashes where there has been impact, and I suppose that is what has caused it this time.”
Better to rent, says Ballack
Get this. Michael Ballack says he can’t afford a house in London, despite earning more than 6 million pounds a year at Chelsea. The German captain has moaned about property prices in the English capital, despite the fact he’s paid a whopping 130,000 pounds each week by the Premiership champions. The heart bleeds.
According to The Daily Star, he’s told a German newspaper that despite his enormous salary he can’t afford his dream house. Initially setting his heart on a six-bedroom house in Surrey with a swimming pool, he’s decided to rent after being quoted a four million pound price tag for the property. “London is extremely expensive,” he said. “It’s better to rent. My family and I have found a house in Wimbledon.”
Ballack also complained about the number of speed cameras on British roads, but he added: “Luckily I have found out where they all are near me.” Presumably he also cannot afford the risk of a 60 pound fixed penalty for speeding.


‘The Valley’ refuses to bow to Kronborg challenge

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Monday, September 11, Green Valley, Stableford
So back to Green Valley for the second time in two weeks; last time the course gave us a real mauling, this time we set out to get revenge. With the cut set at 15, two flights were in operation this time, so would we win?

Bob Rasmusson, A Flight winner at Green Valley

The weather turned out to be hot and humid, and as we found out during the next few days, obviously building up for a real downpour, but fortunately not on this day. The course itself was in fine condition, with fast tricky greens and nicely cut fairways.
As the scores came in it became obvious that this was to be another day when the course won and the players had to settle for second best. In the A Flight, the winner was Bob Rasmusson with 35 points, ahead of Gene Rooney in second with 34 points and Bill Platt in third with 32 points. In the B Flight, the course won even easier, with the winner Richard Kubicki, 34 points ahead of Ebrahim in second with 33 points and Dave Richardson in third on count back over Henk De Bock, both with 29 points.
Never mind, this is a great venue and we shall be back to test it again!
Thursday, September 14, Crystal Bay
We did not even make it to the Cafe Kronborg, not having a boat to float down Soi Diana. As I got into my car, as the rain poured down, Dave Richardson phoned and said he could not get down the road and was going home, now that is it, when Dave goes home, so do we all. Tim was also nearly there, and said he waded down waist deep, only to find the Cafe Kronborg flooded out. So it was feet up time and build-up strength for the next golf day.
T.T.F.N.


Roy leads the way as Paul gets stuck on the ‘ropes’

IPGC golf from The Caddy Shack

Tuesday, September 12, Eastern Star, Medal
Tuesday was a visit to Eastern Star for a Medal competition on an overcast day with rain threatening all around.

Roy (Mr. ‘Loy’) Mitchell led the field home at Eastern Star.

The greens had been treated and cored which made putting a bit of a lottery. Paul Quadomine came third with a net 83, Dave Edwards was second with net 73 and on top of the hill was Mr. ‘Loy’, winning with a fine score of net 71.
Because of the condition of the greens, the 2’s competition was replaced with a ‘Nearest the Pin’ award with Paul picking up two and Mr. ‘Loy’ and Dave taking the others.
Big Ron played his best round ever and Paul King, remember the name? A six foot five inch contender for the British Heavyweight boxing title, Paul was playing his first round of golf ever and took a real beating on the first tee with 25 fresh air shots. If it had been a fight the referee would have stopped it to avoid unnecessary punishment. You might want to stick to boxing Paul?
Friday, September 15, The Emerald, Stableford
The last ‘working’ day of the week saw us take a trip to The Emerald for a Stableford competition on a very wet golf course.
Dave Edwards came third with 30 points, Don Francis was in second on 32 and the winner’s garland went to Ian Painter who broke par with 37 points. Near Pins went to Al McGrory, Mr. ‘Loy’ and two for Dave Buckley.
John Tatnell made his debut and was delighted with his gross 150, saying it was one of his best days out in Thailand.


A bad day at the Office?

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday, September 12, Noble Place
Arriving at Bert’s early, it was with some pleasure that I was met by one of his staff with my complimentary, cooked breakfast. Normally a slice of toast does me, not being a breakfast man, but on this day I splashed out and had two.
So, full up, off we went to Noble Place, a pleasant drive, booked in and started on the A course in fine weather. All went well for some time, then we noticed the storm clouds gathering, but so what, we had played in rain before. Then the rain hit, and it poured down. Indeed at first we kept playing, after all it was only rain, but soon the whole group were soaking wet, and still it rained.
My caddie, bless her soul, tried to keep the umbrella up and keep going, but soon dropped my towel in the ankle deep water and with all my gloves wet, and a soaking towel we managed to finish the A course. But then, with the rain still belting down, the greens filling up with water, soaked to the skin, miserable, wet, cold, we remembered we still had another 9 holes to play.
Some packed it in and went for a hot shower, but after a break and in my case an emergency stop for a new hand towel, off we went onto the back nine under grey skies.
This has to be one of the most pointless nine holes I have ever played, and at times I wondered at my sanity. Even the old adage about a bad day on the golf course being better than a good day at work kept popping into my mind. Do not believe it!
It’s fair to say that when it was over and I was in a hot shower, it was the only time my brain started to work. Those who had packed in were sitting dry and comfortable in the restaurant. Still we never learn and I suppose next time we will finish the round again.
Back at Bert’s we tucked into a fine buffet before Tim got on with the presentations. On this challenging day, the winner emerged as Andy Evans, with Perry McNeely in second and John McHugh third. Suffice to say you had to finish the round to be in the places.
Just to cap off the day, it started raining so heavily outside that we could not go home. Indeed it rained for hours while we were stuck at Bert’s. I suppose there are worse places to be stuck in than a bar with cold beer. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Frank Pilkington, Anders Pederson, Chris Youngman, Mat McInerny
Long Put: John McHugh, Dave Hughes, Doug Jeffrey, Bob Lawrence


PGS win Matchplay Challenge

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Rob Heath presents the trophy to winning captain Len Jones, joined by Glyn Evans and Mr. Denis

Van der Wiele
weathers the storm
Expecting the worst, weather-wise, the Pattaya Golf Society left the OK Corral on Tuesday, September 12 for a Medal round at distant Noble Place, and found it!
Three days of heavy rain had left the course sodden and during the first nine on the “A” course another storm added to the difficulties and discomfort of the large group. It would be an interesting day for the two flights, cut at eighteen and under.
Understandably scores were high and in the second flight both Tony Kitchen and Paul Scully squelched their way to net 78’s for a share of third place whilst a saturated Les Hall took second with a brave net 75. The best card of the day was that wrung out by flight winner Emiel van der Wiele, his level par net 72 barely discernable on the paper. Emiel had certainly made a meal of the conditions!
In a sopping top flight, David Thomas and John Cunningham survived the diluvial conditions, both posting net 77 for a share of second place; John declaring the day to be like any other ordinary golfing day back at home in Scotland! The biggest splash in the top flight was made by Stuart Thompson, and his gross 80 (net 74) was a fine example of aquatic skill and accuracy.
The day’s only birdie “two” was recorded on A6 by Rune Schau and the Booby Bevy could have fallen into many deserving hands but it finally found those of Harry Cowling, as his pitifully high score even outdid that of Len Jones in the Noble Place swamp. There will be better days for the PGS at this excellent course in future, that’s for sure.
PGS takes initial Pattaya - Jomtien Matchplay Challenge
After an exciting and deadlocked first round Pairs Matchplay at Eastern Star on the first day of the month, it was now the turn of the PGS to host the second leg Singles Matchplay in the initial Pattaya - Jomtien “Ryder Cup” style challenge.
The event was held at Green Valley, Friday, September 15 and the host team from the OK Corral had benefited from a free day previously, as heavy rains had washed out their fixture at Phoenix. From the start it was a very tight affair and after the first ten ties the score stood at an ominous 6 - 4 to the team from Paweena’s Bar in Jomtien, with both Paweena’s organizers, Glyn Evans and Rob Heath setting the style with fine wins.
The next two results brought more of the same as both Ben Findon and Les Hall had tense final hole wins for Paweena’s over Bill Hewitt and Ray Atkinson respectively. Eight - four to Jomtien ... dear me! In events such as this, the match is often won or lost off the course and shrewd captaincy by Len Jones had kept back in-form and potentially strong golfers for such an emergency.
Old hands Keith Hector and Harry Cowling came back to the clubhouse smiling and they were followed by an exhilarated Tony Kitchen and current PGS “Player of the Month” Ray Underwood; Ray having stretched Tony Duthie to the very last putt. Eight apiece!
It was now all down to the last two ties. Andy Haycox played out of his skin to take a win against Don Head and Kris Kritsnajootha used the last round of his visit to tease a win over the courageous Russell Benton on the final hole. The result could hardly have been closer, 10 - 8 to the Pattaya Golf Society on the day and 14 - 12 over the series.
In the opinion of all it had been a most enjoyable event with an exciting format and one which will certainly be repeated in a couple of months time. Glyn, Rob and the Paweena’s golfers are set on revenge.


Captain Bob steers for the winner’s enclosure

PSC golf from The Peacock

Monday, September 10, Khao Kheow, Stableford
Monday again, and our group gathered at The Peacock for a trip to Khao Kheow GC; a true test of golf and a firm favourite with many local golfers. A few new faces were once more present at our meeting point along with some old stalwarts, and after allocating car shares we headed for the golf club.
We were directed to courses B and C and just as we were about to tee off, the marshal told a Korean 5-ball to start ahead of us. You can imagine the comments this prompted. In the event, I must say, apart from the first hole, they were away and didn’t hold us up one bit.
The golf was enjoyable and the course, as usual, was in great condition but if I wanted to be picky, the greens were a little slow. This is not a criticism but balls straying off the fairways were hard to find in rough that was extremely difficult to extricate oneself from.
The scores, as can be expected, showed the course’s degree of difficulty and only two people from a group of 20 golfers played to their handicaps or better. Jack Spencer scored 33 points and came fifth. Nile Sheehan came fourth with 34 points and lost on count-back to Eddy Blackwell who came third. In second place with 36 points was Martin Todd but in the winner’s enclosure with 37 points was none other than our Captain Bob Philp. Bob’s been struggling a little lately and it was nice to see him hitting form on such a difficult golf course. As they say down under “good on yer mate”.
Bob Philp and Bill Macey also shared the 2’s pot. One of our regulars, Rich Murphy, picked up the free beer for bringing up the rear. Full marks for hanging on in there Rich.
Needless to say we returned to The Peacock for a great buffet and as Captain Bob said, “ a few wet and frosty ones”.
Thursday, September 14, Century Chonburi
Thursday dawned and it decided to become a wet and dismal day. I arrived at The Peacock to find just Captain Bob in attendance and by 9am, when we were due to leave, only three more people had arrived. We made the decision then not to travel out to Century Chonburi GC and made a courtesy call to let them know. After a number of phone calls to other clubs in the area, to see if they had a break in the rain clouds, four of our stalwarts made the decision to run out to Great Lakes. Yours truly decided to return home and read a book. I’ll let you know next week who made the wiser choice.
Call us on 087928 7859 if you want further details about golf with The Peacock and read the Pattaya Mail page 51 for our weekly schedules.


Triple winners in the 2-man scramble

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, September 11, Century Chonburi, Medal
The Bunker Boy’s played the first Medal competition of the week on Monday at Century Chonburi. The cut was 13 and under and in the A Flight Don Francis took the honours, winning with a net 74, (despite a twenty minute downpour on the back nine), ahead of John McDonald who shot a net 76 to finish runner up.

Paul Smith - one of the ‘two-man scramble’ winners at Mountain Shadow

In the B Flight Clarke Alexander left the rest of the field trailing to win by ten shots with a two under par net 70, with Fred Griffin and Phil Smith tying for the runner up spot, both finishing with net 80 apiece.
Near pin prizes went to Don Francis, Geoff Hart and two went to Brian Jacks.
Wednesday,
September 13, Mountain Shadow, Stableford
The increasingly popular monthly two-man Stableford Scramble for September was held at Mountain Shadow Golf Club on Wednesday. Each pair was playing off what was calculated to be an average of handicap 10, and this turned out to be pretty fair as there was a three-way tie for first place.
The winners were Dave Keats and John McDonald, William Macey who was paired with Clarke Alexander, and Paul Smith playing with Paul Davies, all pairs scoring 38 points.
The near pin prizes were shared between Peter Habgood, Gerry Cooney, Paul Smith and John McDonald.
Friday, September 15, Crystal Bay, Medal
Crystal Bay was the setting for the second Medal competition of the week on Friday. There were two flights again with the field split at handicap 14 and under.
Tying for runner up spot in the B Flight were Mashi Kaneta and Clarke Alexander, who both shot a net 73 but trailed behind Geoff Parker who won with a three under par net 69.
The A Flight saw the best round of the day coming from JJ Harney who shot a four under par net 68 to win. Donald Hendry was runner up with a net 71 and John McDonald came third with net 72.
JJ Harney, William Macey, Paul Smith and Tony Scambler all shared the near pin prizes.


The Simple Simon Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League

2006 Season Knockout Cup - Round 2 (September 14)

This week the Jomtien Pool League took a break from the regular competition to play the second round of the Knockout Cup. The results were as follows (home team shown first).
The winners of the Cup round plus one ‘lucky loser’ will go through to the Knockout Cup third round and the losers will go into the Knockout Cup Consolation competition. The Plate winners will go into the Plate Semi-final.
The next round of matches is scheduled for 26th October.
Knockout Cup Second Round:
Woaw’s Pub (1) 3 v 6 Man in the Moon, De Windmolen 5 v 4 Flying Dolphins, San Snack Bar 7 v 2 Lucky Bar, Simple Simon 5 v 4 Tiger Tiger Bar, Cosy Bar 7 v 2 Hide-A-Way
Knockout Cup Plate (KO Cup first round losers) 1st Round
Golden Inn 3 v 6 Woaw’s Pub (2), Good Time Bar 5 v 4 Scooby’s, Rose & Thistle 2 v 7 Blue Room, Ricci Pub 4 v 5 Take Care Bar


The Square Ring

by Howie Reed

Message reads: “My Lord. Have gone out for tea with Monkey House and the usual suspects. Following that I will be traveling to Phuket to visit your friend Mr. Brook at the Island Lager Bar. I found the pressure of doing The Square Ring last week too much. I will return to assist you next week.” Signed Jeeves. “PS: Your editor called and wants me to do a regular column.”
Ungrateful British lout!
There must be a reason that Monday is boxing day in LOS. Probably something to do with a long held tradition that goes back to the time of “Anna and the King”. On the other hand the answer may be - “This is Thailand.” Regardless, next Monday there’s a big time card at the City Hall of Nakornpathon Province. Featherweight Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo (15-0), who won the ABCO title in his 5th fight, steps in against quality but used a lot Yoddamrong Sithyodthong (45-4-1).
Yoddamrong had his 5 seconds of glory when he won the WBA Super Bantam title in February of 2002 with a UD over Yober Ortega. Three months later he got knocked “cattywampus” by Osamu Sato in 8. Yoddamrong had another chance of glory but Mahyar Monshipour sent him to the ‘Land of Nod’ in 6. This might well be a case of the young gunslinger against the ageing champion. The young guy gets a quality win while the boxer ready to ride into the sunset gets a pay day. One the other hand, strange things do occur in box fighting.
Many feel that the big fight of the weekend was Marcos Antonio Barrera (62-4) against. Rocky Juarez (25-2) for WBC Jr. Lightweight title. The fight held in Las Vegas should have been overshadowed a bit by the “twisting” that the WBC did prior to the fight. One thing about the WBC, you can always count on them to but their foot in their mouths and then explain that our “lying eyes “ were lying.
There were 2 other title fights on the card. One of which involved the WBC - Israel Vasquez (40-3) vs. Jhonny Gonzalez (33-4) for the WBC Super Bantam title. To try and head off the fiasco that followed the cancellation of Castillo-Corrales fight, the WBC loudly trumpeted that it would implement very tough pre fight weigh-ins. They “set in stone” 30 and 7 days weigh-ins.
“The WBC says it will penalize its Super Feather and Super Bantam champions Marco Antonio Barrera and Israel Vazquez respectively, along with their challengers Rocky Juarez and Johnny Gonzalez for not fulfilling the organization’s mandatory weigh-ins, 30 days and 7 days prior to this weekend’s matches in Las Vegas. Specific penalties were not disclosed.”
Those in the know met this press release with a chuckle, a giggle and a fine lager. What sent most on the floor grabbing their sides was “Specific penalties were not disclosed.” In code speak that means, “Yep we did it and we’re keeping it private. Not your business.”
Two days later came the “whoops we didn’t really mean what we said”. The World Boxing Council has updated their previous announcement in regards to fighters missing mandatory weigh-ins 30 and 7 days before their fights on Saturday night. Now the word is the only boxer to be penalized for non-compliance of WBC regulations will be Rocky Juarez.
“Juarez was the only one to violate our rules regarding weight control but not because we made mistakes in our communications, as he had already been informed. The WBC has always been very careful and respectful towards the promotions staged by Oscar De la Hoya, world champion and head of Golden Boy Promotions.”
If the WBC was a “lady that walks to music”, with those moves she would be a star in any dance emporium in Pattaya. Read between the lines and you’ll see, “Oscar can do what he damn well pleases and we had just forgotten it but were reminded of it by rule 45, subsection 9.2 paragraph s.” Boxing, gotta love it!
As many know that visit Las Vegas, sometimes the second time around it isn’t all that great. For WBC Feather challenger Rocky Juarez (24-3) that was the case.
Last May when Juarez challenged Marco Antonio Berrera (63-4) it was exciting. This time? A yawner. Anytime you read that, “it was a tactical fight from round one” you know both boxers were cautious and the pace slow. The scores indicate (117-111, 115-113,115-113) how easy Barrera won.
In other action from Las Vegas, Jorge Barrios (46-2-1) was supposed to defend his WBO Jr. Lightweight title against Joan Guzman (25-0). Didn’t happen as Barrios failed to make the weight and was stripped of his title. Guzman kept his record clean, now at 26-0, but he did so by the thinnest of margins. In round 6 Barrios lost a point for a low blow called by referee Vic Drakulich. After 12 hard fought rounds that one point would give Guzman the win. Judges Carol Castellano (114-113) and William Lerch (115-112) had it for Guzman while the “venerable one”, Bill Graham saw is for Barrios 114-113.
Israel Vasquez (41-3) got off the deck in rounds 4 and 6 to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against Jhonny Gonzalez (33-5) Sunday morning in Las Vegas. After being dominated for the first 6 rounds Vasquez took control, dropping Gonzalez in the 7th. In the 10th Vasquez’s brutal assault led to a knockdown which led to Gonzalez’s trainer, Oscar Suarez tossing in the towel. Vasquez keeps his WBC Super title.
Former WBO Feather contender, Terdsak Jandaeng (25-2,) won the vacant WBO Asia-Pacific 126lb title. How? Well according to reports, “He landed a big left hook at Abi Metiaman’s belly, scoring a one-punch KO at 0:50 of the opening round on Friday, at the City Hall of Chumporn Province, Thailand.” Jandaeng lost in his bid for the WBO title against Juan Manuel Marquez last month at Lake Tahoe, Nevada in a fight he was never in after the referee said, “Touch ‘em up.”
Some ‘maybe’ good contests coming up next weekend: In Wetzlar, Germany, two undefeated boxers put their records on the line. IBF Middleweight champ Arthur Abarham (21-0) defends for the third time against Edison Miranda (26-0). Hard to know how good Abarham is as his defenses came against second tier Shannon Taylor and Kofi Jantuah. Miranda’s one ‘name’ opponent was Howard Eastman who he beat, but then so did Abarham. Guessing that this is another miss-match in Germany, which is par for the course.
Trust me on this one but I’m not picking on the WBC. There is one heck of a fight at The Dodge Arena in Hidalgo, Texas for some title sanctioned by the WBC. Jorge Arce (44-3-1) is a terrific boxer with power, and is currently the WBC Fly title-holder. He’s fighting Masibulele “Hawk” Makepula (28-3) who holds the WBC International Super Fly title. Funny but they aren’t fighting for either title but for a “mandatory”.
Never do you see quality like this at heavier weights. Arce hasn’t lost since 1999 when he stepped in against the great Michael Carbajal. Makepula has only 3 losses; two of those to Mzukisi Sikali and one to Irene Pacheco. Gonna be a barn burner.
Well, finally finished another classic - and without his nibs. I can serve myself a tall cold one or 20. What’s that? Someone at the door?
“Yes, nice to meet you Noi. This lady with you is? ... Oh, your mother, Toy. And the little boy? ... Right, he’s your brother. And to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit? I see, Mr. Jeeves said that maybe you would like to live here. Well he’s off with mates but should be back today in time for Tuesday at the TQ. Can you wait? Well, as you seem to have everything I don’t see why not. Why yes, I would like an Island Lager. A cigar? That would be nice. Massage? That would be spot on. Oh, just put your things in Jeeves’ former room.”


Ken shines at Eastern Star

Jomtien Golf with the I.P.G.C

Monday, September 11, Eastern Star, Stableford
Another very hot day, and with a non-existent breeze blowing it was going to be a tough challenge for the 21 players. We changed the format slightly today regarding nearest the pins and ran an open house on all four par threes. Joop Medze and Ken Lill had two each, while Ken had the only “two” of the day.
In Division 2 there were four players tied on 34 points for the prizes, but on count back Miss Noy had 21 pts and Miss Nom 19 points. Dominic Rammelt came back to the clubhouse with a smile on his face, hoping to win his first prize with us, but with 15 on the back nine, those ladies are still on top of you, so to speak.
Geoff Stubbs’s 37 points earned him second place in Division 1, while the inform Ken Lill’s 41 took the honours.
The ladies tipple was presented to a certain person, who was now leaving the bar, but that is another story. The Rich Man Poor Man’s freshly baked pizza draw for the non-prize winners was won by Alan Duckett, but as the waistline is growing by the week, there will be a double draw this Monday.
Wednesday,
September 13, Sriracha, Stableford
With the second stage of the ‘Ryder Cup’ on Friday against the OK Corral, and with numerous other tournaments this week, a smaller than normal competition took place at Sriracha. It was a fun day out with only one division. Glyn Evans scored his first 30 plus points in as many months, newcomer Rune Schaup came second with 28 and Don Head third with 26.
Friday, September 15, Green Valley, (Please see OK Corral report page 54 for details)
A big thanks to Len and Dennis and all the players from everyone at Jomtien Golf for a great evening and a very interesting and competitive tournament over the last two weeks.
Jomtien golf meets every Monday and Wednesday at Paweenas on Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Road, and departs at around 9.15pm for a 10.30 tee off time. Transport and club hire are available. Please sign up in the bar or ring Glyn on 068 373 464.


Down Under on top at the Navy

PSC golf from the Oohsa Bar

Only a small field of 10 players ventured down to Sattahip to play the North & West ‘9s’ at the Navy course. We found the course in tip-top condition following the recent rains, with well-grassed fairways, while the greens were smooth and true. Our leader Keith was having a day off from organizing, we hope to see him back on the fairways in the near future.
With the small field comes a small prize rundown with Aussies Jeff and Barry leading the way with 39 & 38 points respectively. We still had the usual technical prizes of 4 NTPs and a Long Putt. Plutaluang member Bruce Lawrence used all his local knowledge to claim North 3 & West 3, Jeff picking up West 8, while Barry grabbed North 6 & the Long Putt on West 9.
Malcolm & his staff did a bang up job upon our return, with cold drinks and some great tucker. The cook has been excelling himself, both at brekky and our après golf food, much appreciated. If you would like to join the Oohsa Bar on Tuesday for golf you would be most welcome. We meet at the bar on Soi Khao Talo at 8.00 am for breakfast, before making our way to the course at ‘9ish’. Hope to see you there.


Americans love eagles, so Tom obliged at Khao Kheowb>

PSC Golf from Bowling Green

Saturday, September 9, Sriracha, Stableford
1st Gordon Everingham (25), 41 pts
2nd Donald Hendry (10), 39 pts (count back)
3rd Marcus Mattsson (18), 39 pts
4th Derek Eastham (16), 38 pts

First three at Sriracha - Gordon, Donald & Marcus, (inset) Nearest Pin draw winner Derek

Nearest Pins: Donald Hendry, Frank Kelly, Derek Eastham (on lucky draw)
No 2’s this week so carried over to next Saturday
The Canadian, Gordon Everingham’s 41 points proved too much for Scotsman Donald Hendry and Swede Marcus Mattsson. Donald did get 2nd place on the count back from Marcus. It started to look like it might be the old Canada v Sweden in hockey again. But at least this time Canada did come out ahead. Marcus and Donald are looking for a rematch next Saturday. The course was in good condition and we were lucky to avoid the rain.
Tuesday, September 11,
Khao Kheow, Stableford

1st Tom Harrington (17), 35 pts
2nd Richard Wakeling (12), 34 pts
3rd Mark Brenton (36), 34 pts
4th David Swaine (36), 33 pts - c/b Derek Eastham
Nearest Pins: Takashi Hakozaki, Les Burns, Lars Strom and Fergus Brennan.
2’s: Takashi Hakozaki
Well Khao Kheow again proved why it’s considered one of the hardest golf courses in the area. It was in great condition and it was up to the golfers to conquer the links, but no one came to the forefront.
Tom Harrington did come close with his first ever Eagle. It was a nice 190 yard second shot into a blind green. When we got to the putting surface we could not find his ball until Gordon told him to look in the hole and see if it was there. Well much to our surprise, and Tom’s happiness, there was the ball and his Eagle. We all got a reward when Tom bought a round of drinks for us all ... Thanks Tom! But again to his loss, he did not enter the 2’s contest.
Derek Eastham has visited the podium in the last 5 games but on this occasion he lost out on a count back to David Swaine.
Reg Rawding an owner of the Bowling Green added a little spice to the game on our return by giving an extra prize to the winning score and we all thank him for his generosity, (Tom in particularl). We yet again had a fantastic chicken curry dinner and we thank the cooks and staff for their great service.
Thursday’s golf outing was cancelled due to rain. Remember if any one is interested in golfing with the Bowling Green we play every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at Bowling Green at 7.45am for breakfast and transportation, and new players are always made to feel welcome. Hope to see you there...