SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Sybille Bammer takes Pattaya Women’s Open title in thrilling final

Pattaya Swim Club takes top place in swimming competition

12th Anniversary Pattaya AM-AM tournament

Mike posts winning score

Hopefuls still in the hunt

New ATV Motor Cross track opens in Pattaya

Janie makes it ‘ladies day’ at Treasure Hill

Jack’s birdie blitz leaves the field trailing at Greenwood

Treasure Hill off the roster

Peter sparkles at The Emerald

Only Care for Kids did better than Ron Birdsall

Doug digs deep at Mountain Shadow

Derek & Mike take the honours at Bangpakong

Bob & Ben win Monthly Medal

Keith back on the winning trail

The Beautiful Game?

Puravarna Phang Nga Bay Regatta opens the 2007 yacht-racing season

Rich rolls a 635 series

The Square Ring

Thea finds her range at last

Big Andy Evans does the job at The Emerald

The European Tour comes to Pattaya

Phlutaluang caddies injured in golf cart accident

Feel ready for a challenge? Why not sign up for the River Kwai Adventure Race?

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Sybille Bammer takes Pattaya Women’s Open title in thrilling final

Sybille Bammer of Austria (6th from left) and her opponent in the final Gisela Dulko of Argentina (5th, left) pose with local dignitaries and event organizers at the conclusion of the awards ceremony.

Staff reporters & AP
This year’s Pattaya Women’s Open tennis tournament was once again a superb opportunity for the residents and tennis fans of Pattaya to sample the thrills and spills of top-flight women’s professional tennis as the stars of the WTA Tour hit town for a week.

A delighted champion holds up the winner’s trophy.
Despite the surprising loss of the top seeds in the early rounds of the singles event, the spectators at the final on Sunday were treated to one of the games of the tournament as last year’s beaten semi-finalist Sybille Bammer survived three match points to defeat Argentina’s Gisela Dulko in three marathon sets and claim her first win on the WTA Tour.
Earlier in the week, the top seeds found the going tough as they came up against either opponents looking to make a name for themselves, or against previously top ranked players on the comeback trail from injury.
First to bite the dust was Russia’s up-coming teenage starlet Maria Kirilenko, who, as reported in this paper last week, was ousted by Australia’s Nicole Pratt in the first round on Tuesday. She was swiftly followed the following day by the exit of Thailand’s Tamarine Tanasugarn 6-4, 2-6, 6-1 to Indian fifth seed Sania Mirza, who appeared to be the most in-form player in the early stages of the competition.

Bammer crunches a forehand past her opponent in the opening game of the final.
The local favourite said her below par performance in the final set was due in some part to the tournament’s tight schedule. “Yesterday (Tuesday) I didn’t finish till nearly 1am and today (Wednesday) I had to play two matches. I didn’t have any rest while other players had one day free. I don’t know why the schedule was arranged like this”, said a clearly disappointed Tamarine.
Next of the big names to fall by the wayside was top seed Marion Bartoli of France. Bartoli has recently risen up the world rankings to number 24 on the WTA list and was strongly fancied to at least make it to the final here in Pattaya. Her opponent, Slovakia’s un-seeded Martina Sucha clearly hadn’t read the script however as she came back from a set down to defeat the higher ranked Bartoli 4-6, 6-3, 6-3.

Argentina’s Gisela Dulko surrendered three match points in the final set.
Austrian Sybille Bammer, the world number 62 had started the tournament in confident fashion. After comfortably negotiating the early rounds, she then faced a tough quarterfinal match against Bartoli’s conqueror, Sucha.
In what turned out to be a real slugfest, the 26-year old Austrian finally overcame her opponent by a score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the semi-finals for the second year in a row. A more straightforward 6-4, 6-2 victory followed over China’s Shuai Peng and the un-fancied Bammer suddenly found herself in the final where Argentina’s Gisella Dulko awaited her.
With both players enjoying some enthusiastic, vocal encouragement from their banks of supporters, the final was played out in a riveting atmosphere.
First to set down a marker was the Austrian girl as she raced into a 4-1 lead in the first set. With both players struggling to hold their service games however, it wasn’t long before Dulko struck back, breaking Bammer twice to level the match at 5-5. With the set now hanging on a knife-edge, it was Bammer who came good, passing her opponent with some solid ground strokes to break her opponent once more and hang on to her own serve for 7-5.
Clearly buoyed by winning the first set Bammer started the second in a confident mood, taking the first two games comfortably. It was at this point, however that world number 51 Dulko started to find her range and she completely dominated the remainder of the set, taking it 6-3 as Bammer’s game came unravelled.
The final dramatic set got off identical fashion to the second: Bammer took an early 2-0 lead before the Argentine girl struck back hard to stand on the brink of victory at 5-3. A clearly struggling Bammer somehow managed to survive three match points against her and came back to level the scores at 5-5. This seemed to knock the wind out of Dulko and Bammer stormed through to win the last two games and capture her first ever WTA title.
“It was a tough match. Even when I was down, I kept fighting,” Bammer said afterwards. “Both of us wanted to win. I was lucky to win. It’s one of the happiest days in my life “
Runner-up Dulko described the hard-fought match as “unbelievable” and said she was disappointed with her performance.
“I had three match points, I was so close to winning,” she said. “But she made a great effort. She never gave me (a) free point.”
For her efforts over the week, the newly crowned champion received a winner’s cheque for US$23,700 (870,000 baht) whilst Dulko picked up US$12,775 (473,000 baht) for reaching the final.
Later in the doubles final, Australia’s Nicole Pratt and Italy’s Mara Santangelo defeated the Taiwanese pairing of Chan Yung-Jan and Chuang Chia-Jung in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6.

Both girls enjoyed great support from the packed crowd at the Dusit tennis arena.


Pattaya Swim Club takes top place in swimming competition

The Pattaya Swim Club put on a strong showing at this year’s event.

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Pattaya City Swim Club came out top at the 4th Pattaya Youth Swimming Competition, held over the period February 3 to 4 at Satit Udomsueksa Academy.
Itthipol Khunplome, chief advisor to the mayor of Pattaya, presided over the opening ceremony with deputy mayors Ronakit Ekasingh and Wattana Chantanawaranon also present.
The competition was divided into two age categories: 5-14 years and 15 years and upwards. Competitors were from school teams, associations, clubs and swimming pools from Pattaya and the neighboring provinces, with over 30 teams and 330 competitors taking part.
Itthipol said that Pattaya City Council and the Pattaya sub-committee on tourism promotion and sports had jointly organized the event.
Highest scores went to the Pattaya City Swim Club, which received 7,000 baht in scholarships. Runner up was the Tasana Garden Club with in third place the Tappaya Swim Club, fourth was the Assumption Swim Club from Rayong and in fifth was Aqua Attack. All these clubs received prize money towards school scholarships.


12th Anniversary Pattaya AM-AM tournament

Green Valley, March 2nd

The only chance for the majority of the ex patriot community to play a Pro Am format in the Pattaya area is once a year in the Pattaya Am-Am, which this year is being held at the Green Valley on Friday, March 2nd.
In a Pro-Am 3 amateur players play with a Professional, but the Am-Am format is four amateurs with two Stableford points scores from four counting on each hole.
Once again this year, to make the competition even more competitive, the players will only be allowed 75% of their handicaps with a maximum allowance of one shot per hole. Ladies will play from the same tees with an additional 2 shots added to their handicap after the 25% reduction. This finally brings the competition into line with the genuine Pro-Am format after nine previous years of events and will once again ensure a much closer finish with many more teams in the hunt for the places.
There are prizes for the first three teams plus 4 nearest the pins.
Be sure not to miss this once a year opportunity to play in one of the real fun events on the Pattaya golf calendar.
Entries can be made at The OK Corral, The Haven, Jomtien Golf, Lewiinskis and The Caddy Shack golf venues and cost 1,300 baht per player, which includes green and caddy fee, and a sumptuous buffet prior to the prize giving at The Haven. The teams are limited to 25 so early applications are advised.


Mike posts winning score

Phoenix Members Golf Society

Sunday, February 11, Phoenix, Stableford
Only 23 players today and the temperatures are starting to rise. One good thing about this is that there are not so many tourists about and we were able to start a little early and get round quite quickly.

Mike Poustie (winner) with wife Angela Poustie and Captain Ben Hogstrom making the presentation on Sunday.

Using the (Mike Poustie) handicap system on Sundays we expect to get high scores in, and today was no exception.
In third place was Lennart Loquist with 41 points, second with 42 points was our lovely Prakong Robinson (welcome back Prakong), and our winner today, after having a triple bogey and no points on the first hole, was the handicap originator himself, Mike Poustie with 43 points: Well played Mike.
Rest assured all three players will be cut drastically and everybody else will get one shot back, so it should be a different set of names in the winners enclosure next week.
The results for last Wednesday, Feb 7 were as follows: Men’s Division Ron Bridge winning with 37 points, Eddie Blackwell (35pts) in second and Hans Colen (35pts) in third.
In the Ladies Division, Prakong Robinson won with 35 points and Mayo Deane (31pts) came second
The results for Friday, Feb 9 saw Terry O’Conner win the Men’s Division with 38 points and Mayo Deane take the Ladies honours with a score of 31 points.
Start sheets are now available every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday for all comps, or by calling the usual contacts: Mike Gerrard: 08 709 17565, Ron Bridge: 08 145 25995 or Ben Hogstrom: 08 615 75310
A special start sheet will be ready next week for our annual Club Championship to be held on Sunday, March 4. There are limited places and sign up is important. Rules for this comp will be available at the same time.


Hopefuls still in the hunt

San Miguel Lawn Bowls Leagues

Division 1

Pos.

Team Points Shot Diff.

1st

Melgram 18 88

2nd

Hopefuls 16 44

3rd

Cunning Stunts 13 30

4th

Hat Tricks 9 16

Division 2

Pos.

Team Points Shot Diff.

1st

Harvons 15 50

2nd

Celtic Warriors 12 26

3rd

Odd Couple 11 22

4th

Austar 10 39

Barry Hooper
Melgram retain their top place in Division One after a convincing win over YingYangs (29-7) but the Hopefuls stay hot on their heels after winning themselves over Shoemakers. Cunning Stunts are hanging in for third place, just 5 points off the lead.
In the second division Harvons have had their lead cut to three points after a drawn match at 15 across against the Odd Couple. Celtic Warriors now have second place to themselves with their win over the Golfers and the Odd Couple are now in third. The Lighter Men were offered a walk over by the Gunners because off an illness that has struck down Aussie John (a co organiser of the leagues). All the player members wish him a quick recovery and hope to see him back on the green soon.
The management are having a tough time at the moment keeping the rinks in trim what with no rain and the continuing problems of an interrupted local water supply but a concerted effort is being made to keep things on track.
A large amount of visiting bowlers have been seen this week with some old hands and newcomers alike. Everyone is welcome at the club and all equipment needed is available with starter tuition offered to any one who has never played before. So why not come along and give it a try. The club is in Soy Xcite near the nightclub just off Third Road in Pattaya.


New ATV Motor Cross track opens in Pattaya

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Friday, February 2, Brothers Car Rent opened Pattaya’s new ATV racetrack called “Day & Night ATV Motor Cross” in response to the demand of its increasing customer base. Pol. Col. Suthin Sapphuang, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station presided over the official opening ceremony in the presence of the many honoured guests and attendees.

The new track provides a challenging ride for ATV enthusiasts.

Brothers Car Rent, managed by Prasittichai Poungjinda, revealed that the ATV racetrack was created following customer demand from those who rent the ATVs, especially foreigners who love this type of vehicle and the increasing number of ATV enthusiasts who need a private, challenging venue. The track is 400 meters long with slopes and challenging hills, but with a high level of safety built in and its usage will be pitched at a level to suit most people’s budgets.
“We would like our customers and those interested in a challenging ATV ride to experience this new standard track in Pattaya with vehicles imported from the U.S. The track is open day and night,” added Prasittichai.
The “Day & Night ATV Motor Cross” is located at Brother Car Rent on Thappraya Road, Pattaya, opposite The Captain’s Corner restaurant and the Residence Suites. The facility is open between 10.00 hrs-23.00 hrs daily.


Janie makes it ‘ladies day’ at Treasure Hill

PSC golf from the CaféKronborg

Monday, February 5, Treasure Hills, Stableford
Following the recent disastrous visit to Treasure Hills a couple of weeks ago, which amongst other things resulted in the competition being ‘rained off’ it was with some trepidation that our crew from the Kronborg rolled up for this Monday’s stableford.
However they need not have worried as on this occasion everything turned out fine with all the caddies ready to go and, with the management kindly allowing us to tee off thirty minutes early, the day got off to a perfect start.
As to the condition of the course, well it was a little on the dry side and with the ball running a mile it was a feat in itself on some of the dog leg holes to keep it on the fairway, however the greens were good and as long as the bunkers were avoided it was more than playable.
On to the competition then and it was definitely ‘ladies day’ as Janie Jasper swept all before her to card the best score of the day a excellent 40 points to win the ‘B’ flight from Jepser Rasmussen (37pts) in second with Hugh O’Donnell’s 36 points (his best ever score) being good enough to take third place from newcomer Remo Schlauri a somewhat surprised but delighted fourth with 35pts.
In the ‘A’ flight three of the first four winners came from the first group, with Clive Robinson (38pts) finally edging out Ted Morris (37pts) into second place, with Larry Simpson (37Pts) in third and another newcomer Arthur Barratt (34pts) taking fourth place.
Longest Putts: Brian Noguer, Johani Fait
Near Pins: Cees Bosman (2), Hugh O’Donnell, Mike Rushant
Thursday,
February 8,
Kheow Kheow, Stableford
This course is certainly one of the best and also one of the toughest around, so when we arrived it was nice to see it was not blowing a gale. Even so, you cannot take this course lightly, you can be sailing along and one poor shot can totally destroy your round. You get a good score here and you know you have played well.
Just for a change today we played B & C nines, which is a pretty difficult combination with plenty of water around and thus many lost balls. The franchise for lost balls here must be worth a fortune
As the scores came in it was obvious that, as usual here, shoot your handicap and you would be in the shakeup. In the B Flight, (20-up) Karen Brown broke her handicap, and thus won with 38 points as the other flight players were left in her dust. In second was Brian Gabe with 33 points and in third and fourth came Jesper Rasmussem and Rolf Hoffman with 32 points and 31 points respectively.
In the A Flight, (0-19) the scores were remarkably good with all four winners equaling or beating their handicap. The winner was Derek Brook with a very good 41 points, in second was Rob Brown with a very creditable 38 point, third came Ursula Lehner with 37 points and in fourth was Ebrahim with 36 points.
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Ursula Lehner, Lars Peterson, Finn Olsen, Rolf Hoffman
Long Put: Brian Gabe, Rolf Hoffman


Jack’s birdie blitz leaves the field trailing at Greenwood

PSC golf from The Peacock Place

Monday, February 5, Pattaya C.C., 2-Person Better-Ball Stableford
Pattaya Country Club was the venue for today’s game and twenty-eight players turned up, hopeful of a good game of golf. Captain Bob decided we would play a 2-man (or woman) Better Ball, Stableford competition.
The course was, as it has been for a while, very dry, and everyone was hitting a good distance thanks to the hard surface, and some very good scores were returned. The greens however, were not at all forgiving, and Captain Bob had suspicions that some people were playing different greens to him, as he seemed to be having trouble with his putter, and no, it can’t swim.
Dao, or Michelle Wie, as our trusty Captain likes to call her, had a fantastic game for only her second time out, and on two occasions, was actually putting for par. Well-done Dao.
The results for the day saw Harvey & On Samuals in first place, Matt Anderson and Keith Taylor in second and a 3-pair tie in third place featuring Steve Nowells and Mike Walshek, Barry Rothberg and Alan Bishop, and Tony Cobb and Roger Rush
There were two 2’s recorded by Mike Leighton and Matt Anderson
Wednesday, February 7, Greenwood, Stableford
Wednesday’s game was held at Greenwood Golf Course. We had 24 golfers, including four guests from overseas. The course was, as usual, in beautiful condition, and once again some good and close scores were returned. Even the Ice Maiden (Wendy Khan) had started to thaw out and had her first good game in many weeks. This was mainly due to her personal trainer and coach (lucky man), having given her a lesson earlier in the week.
The results in the A Division saw Jack Mosely in first with 38 points and Captain Bob in second with 37 points on count back from Mark Joshua, also on 37 points.
B Division had Doug Chalkley on the top step with 39 points, Bob Drummond second on 38 points and Wendy (Ice Maiden) Khan in third with 35 points
Most people are very pleased to get one ‘2’ during their game, they would probably be ecstatic to score two ‘2s’ but to score three ‘2s’ on the same day as Jack (the 2’s specialist) Mosely did is just being a little bit greedy. Steve Nowells did his best to compete with Jack and managed two fine ‘2’s’ himself.
The Peacock Place runs a very welcoming and friendly Golf Society, so if you are looking for a game with a group of really great people, come and join us anytime. Just call Bob on 087 941 2474.


Treasure Hill off the roster

PSC golf from Bowling Green

Barry Hooper
Tuesday, February 6,
Greenwood, Stableford
A Flight
1st Bob Dearnley (13) 40pts
2nd Brian Heelan (13) 37pts
3rd Joe O’Driscoll (16) 37pts
B Flight
1st Colin Cronin (19) 38pts
2nd Graham Ramsey (21) 37pts
3rd Gary Clarke (22) 35pts
C Flight
1st Brian Rideout (33) 43 pts
2nd Gordon Everingham (28) 39pts
3rd Jack Robertson (27) 38pts
Near Pins: Dave Askew, Joe O’Driscoll (2), Barry Power
2’s: Barry Power

Saturday “Eastern Star” winners: Alan Evans, Brian Heelan, and Mike Wing.

Three flights again today. Good conditions made for enjoyable golf with winners and losers but as always with everybody trying there best and that is the name of the game. Colin Cronin, Brian Rideout and Bob Dearnley were the flight winners with play going off the White Tees
Thursday, February 8,
Treasure Hill, Stableford
Flight A
1st John Merritt (15) 37pts
2nd Bernie Segrave (14) 36pts
3rd Joe O’Driscoll (15) 35pts
Flight B
1st Tony Holehouse (24) 39pts
2nd Paul Barker (26) 38pts
3rd Stan Everingham (17) 37pts
Flight C
1st Mam Morel (29) 36pts
2nd Les Burns (35) 32pts
3rd Jack Robertson (27) 32pts
Near Pins: Stan Everingham, John Clements,Tom Herrington, Dick Warberg
2’s: Neil Duncan, Michael Lonsdale, Stan Everingham (2)
On arrival at the course there were no caddies available and the management were equally conspicuous by there absence. It seems like Treasure Hill is suffering from a lack of organisation at the moment and until they resolve the situation, the Bowling Green golfers will not be returning there any time soon.
Despite the difficulties, some golf did take place off the yellow tees and John Merritt, Tony Holehouse and Mam Morel were the respective flight winners.
Saturday, February10,
Eastern Star, Stableford
Flight A (0-13)
1st Brian Heelan (13) 39pts
2nd Brian Beaupre (6) 39pts
3rd Jack Moseley (9) 35pts
Near Pins: Bob St.Aubin, Joe O’Driscoll, Barry Power, Rick Scramm
2’s: Derek Eastham, Marcuss Mattsson, Rick Scramm, Brian Beaupre, Peter Corry
Another excellent turnout took on Eastern Star in tough but good conditions. Fergus the organiser, sidelined by a recent operation, had his superlative organisational skills put to the test at the presentation back at the clubhouse when it was found that a couple of mistakes had been made in his prepared winners lists - much to his embarrassment. But he took it on the chin and all was quickly resolved. Fergus we all hope that you can get back behind the clubs soon.
If any one is interested in golfing with the Bowling Green we play every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at Bowling Green at 7:45 am for breakfast and transportation, and new players are always made to feel welcome. Call Tewin on 086 056 7019 or the Bowling Green 038-720742 or send an email [email protected].


Peter sparkles at The Emerald

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

Tuesday, February 6, Eastern Star, Medal
Eastern Star was the choice for a medal competition on a perfect day for golf. The two divisions were split with the cut being 15 and under.
In Division 2, Lindsay Joshua came second with a net 77 whilst Pete White scored a net 74 to take the honours. In Division 1 Wilf Latham shot a net 75 to come 3rd, but the battle of the day went to playing partners Dave Smith and Paul Lavender, both scoring a net 73 with Dave having the better count back to take the win.
There was only one birdie “two” on the day scored by Gay Brotherton.
Friday, February 9, The Emerald, Stableford
The Emerald was chosen for a stableford competition and to our surprise, and pleasure, the course was virtually empty. Two divisions were the order of the day and the cut was made at 15 and under.
In Division 2 last week’s winner Phil Smith scored 34 points to come in 3rd place, whilst Brian Kelly put in a very good round of 43 points and almost celebrated victory until the very high scoring card of Peter White arrived with a massive 47 points. This took 1st place hands down. The scalpel will be out Peter that’s for sure.
In division one Mark Joshua and Michael Waltchek scored 36 points a piece, Michael had the better count back to claim second, but the winner with 37 points was Gary Brotherton.
There were six birdie “twos” recorded by John Mason, Dave Smith, Clark Alexander, Gary Brotherton and Wilf Latham (2) and the Caddy Shack sponsored ‘near pin’ prizes were collected by Wilf Latham, Brian Kelly and Big Ronnie Millward.


Only Care for Kids did better than Ron Birdsall

12th Classroom Charity Golf Classic raises 120k baht

Steve Donovan
As he has in each of his four years of ownership, Pete Stonebridge “bought” the Green Valley Rayong Country Club on Friday, February 9, from 11:00 o’clock on, for the staging of the 12th Classroom Charity Golf Classic. From a player’s and marshall’s standpoint this means that everybody on the course was a part of the tournament and that any interlopers might be summarily rejected. It did, as it has in the past, lead to a most relaxing round of golf despite the popularity of the event.

Ron Birdsall was top of the class after returning a fine 41 points at Green Valley to become this year’s overall Classroom champion.
Pete’s planning was complimented by his capable management staff of John Foley, who used his ample graphic skills to develop personalized scorecards and tee box placards of forthcoming technical prizes and Willie McCallum, who had the enviable task of driving the “school bus” full of beautiful “students”.
One shouldn’t go any further without talking about those “students” who, as always, did a marvelous job of braving the heat and providing a pictorial diversion from some of the less then photogenic profiles of the competitors. And no showing of appreciation should forget Scotty Foley, who kept the home fires burning and who along with the capable staff back at the Classroom prepared the “Schoolhouse” for the invasion of golfers, many hungry and thirsty, and some even lecherous, who were there to avail themselves of the buffet, the trophy presentation, numerous Lucky Draw prizes and the “students”.

Pete Stonebridge (left) exchanges a check for 120k baht in return for a Certificate of Appreciation from Jester’s president Woody Underwood.
A full field was ushered through registration quickly, thanks to Headmaster Pete and Sen. Bob Patterson. The players then proceeded to their assigned starting holes to begin the assault for the 12th Classroom Charity Golf Classic title 2007. With the report of a shotgun, the players were away, and the contenders began to score, and the less concerned began to drink.
When play concluded, it was time to turn in the scorecards, which is something that every competitor should remember to do as he walks off the course. Then it was back to the Classroom where the target was a 7pm presentation.
The formalities was kicked off in a timely manner by Peter asking Care For Kids’ “Woody” Underwood to the stage for the presentation of the day’s charitable contribution of 120 thousand baht. It should be noted that half of that contribution came from tournament entry fees, less payment of fees and costs, and that the second half came from the personal donation of Peter himself. Special thanks from Woody, his Care For Kids Drive staff and all the kids who stand to benefit, to the competitors, the players and Peter and the Classroom staff.
The winning scores reflected not only the fine play of those players but also the excellent handicapping work of the IPGC under Stephen Beard and the PSC under Tony Oakes as all the winning scores were once again within reasonable limits. Only one player topped 40 points, and he by only one at that, a far cry from the old days. Appropriately it was an A Flight player (13 handicapper), Ron Birdsall who tallied that point total, thus claiming The A Flight winning prize and his position on the perpetual trophy as the overall winner.
There was only one count back on the day as the balance of A Flight was sorted by the math, with Roger Stromstedt having an inward 22 to better Teddy Morris’ 19. Scotsman Derek Bannerman’s 39 points was tops in B Flight, enjoying a two-point gap over Tony Kitchen and three point spread over Irishman Tommy Noonan.
A half a dozen gals contested the Ladies’ Championship and Wira Widness, on the getaway day of this extended stay in Pattaya with husband Einar, proved the best of the lot with her 32 points. Wira was five clear of Raya Hopea, who herself was three clear of the balance of the female field.
There was a Team Prize on the day with the winner determined by the best three scores of each four-ball. Derek’s Bannerman’s B Flight winning 39 led the way for his lads as Scottish mate Albert Bruce had 38. Either David Foulk (30) or Geoff King (28) could have provided ample third man support as the team score of 107 was four clear of Ray Dell, Mike Craighead, John Hillier and Jim Munns.
Peter, and certainly the players, wish to thank the generosity of the following sponsors who provided gifts that enhanced the technical prizes and Lucky draw: Andy James at “Misty’s A-Go-Go”, Kevin Mitch at the “Blue Parrot”, Simon Dutton at “Shenanigan’s”, Joe Banks at the “Whitehouse Condotel” on Soi 13, Steve Mascari at “394-3rd Road Restaurant” and Woody Underwood of “The Jesters”. Also, thanks to Green Valley General Manager Khun Niran, his capable assistants on the day, Khun Noy and Khun Tippawan, and the fine staff at the course and clubhouse.
And finally, a special thanks from Peter to all those who participated and his sincere hope that you all “enroll” again next year.

12th Classroom Charity Golf Classic Results
Overall Champion: Ron Birdsall 41pts
Men’s A Flight:
1st Ron Birdsall 41pts
2nd Roger Stromstedt 39pts (c/b)
3rd Ted Morris 39pts
Men’s B Flight:
1st Derek Bannerman 39pts
2nd Tony Kitchen 37pts
3rd Tommy Noonan 36pts
Ladies Flight
1st Wira Widness 32pts
2nd Raya Hopea 31pts
Near Pins: #2 Graham Dietrich; #5 Joseph Bisonette; #12 Jeff North; #16 Colm Mullen. Long Drive: Men’s A Flight: Anders Pedersen; Men’s B Flight: Khun Sittipong ; Ladies: Raya Hopea.
Long Putt: Tony Duthie.
Nearest the Keg: Adam Schoenfeld.
Team Prize: Geoff King, Albert Bruce, Derek Bannerman, David Foulk.

Doug digs deep at Mountain Shadow

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Tuesday, February 6, the Pattaya Golf Society travelled to Mountain Shadow to renew its acquaintance with a course not visited for a few months. Nothing had changed and the course proved as tough as ever with trees still much in evidence in the fairways, acres of water and greens almost impossible to master.
The large field made up ten groups and the divisional cut was at eighteen and under.
In the second flight, golfers struggled to make an impact and Brian Kelly and Len Jones toiled most of the day to garner net 80’s for a share of third place. They were usurped by Ray Underwood whose net 79 was the best of the flight.
In the top flight the places were also keenly fought over with Brian Beaupre and Syd Harrison sharing third place with net 76’s, one behind Kevin Taylor’s excellent 75 in second. The day however belonged to personable career golfer Doug Williams and his gross figure of 75 gave him net 74 for a deserved victory.
The large “twos” pot was shared by David Thomas, Lloyd Lewis, Brian Kelly and Andreas Grunenberg. The reluctance of certain candidates for the Booby Bevy to appear at the presentation meant that the day’s worst score was recognised in time-honoured fashion and Keith Hector duly enjoyed the Heineken.
Jeff Johnson ends on a high
Eastern Star hosted the Pattaya Golf Society’s weekly stableford event on Thursday and the large field found the course in good condition but with greens running much slower than expected as a result of maintenance and sanding.
There were two flights with the divisional cut at eighteen and under and it was refreshing to have a Ladies’ flight again after an absence of a month or two. This was predictably won by the ever-improving Mod Churaiska and she took the prize with a level par 36 points from Margaret Wilkinson and Jang Salar.
In the second flight, less regular faces were to emerge as heroes on the day as Roger Koehler turned in a 31 point score for third place and Barry Pethig took second with 34 points. The flight winner was Keith Barr after an absence of a few weeks and his 35 points represented a fine return for the popular Canadian golfer.
A very tightly contested top flight had Mikael Andersson in third, firing the day’s best gross score, 77, giving him 36 points, and John Cunningham recovering his poise after a nightmare two days previously to claim runner-up place with 37 points. The best round of the day was carded by Jeff Johnson in his final round with the PGS before returning to work “stateside”. Showing his father the way home he finished on 38 points to bring the curtains down on his golfing stay. He also shared the “twos” pot with Brian Beaupre and David Thomas, the latter eagling the eighteenth to claim his share.
The Booby Bevy went to Chris Voller to mark his final round before returning to the UK on a day which had started with him losing all his keys, having no money and later forgetting to take a change of clothing to the course. But he still made the golf on time!


Derek & Mike take the honours at Bangpakong

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday, February 6,
Bangpakong, Stableford

We arrived at the course to find it was as usual overbooked, so our 10am start time slipped by at least a half hour, and the round was so slow with even a few 6-balls out on the course. Not only that but they also ran out of carts, so many players who would normally ride had to walk.
So were we downhearted? Not a bit of it. Bangpakong is a delight to walk, it’s flat and what is more there are little spots all the way around where you can sit and contemplate life. The longer it takes the more you get for your money.
This fine, long course with very flat, grassy fairways and greens is a great test of golf and at present, with a special deal on it’s great value.
Much later, back at Bert’s, the winners were declared as follows: A Div, (0-20) was won by Derek Brook with 39 points on count back from Rob Brown in second whilst in third came Brendan McGovern on 38 points and Bill Knight in fourth with 37 points. Of note was Brendan’s 38 points off +1 handicap, nuff said.
In the B Div it was nice to see Mike Wing come back to form with 41 points ahead of Pete King in second with 40 points, and Joel Flor in third with 39 points followed by Henry Cignac in fourth with 38 points.
TTFN
Near Pin: Brendan McGovern (3), Rob Brown, Henry Cignac, Brian Gabe
Long Put: Paddy Fitzgerald, Mike Wing


Bob & Ben win Monthly Medal

IPGC Jomtien golf

Monday February 5, Eastern Star, Monthly Medal
For the large majority of our group, Eastern Star is always a pleasure to play, but it is the first competition of the month so that equates to the dreaded monthly medal, and with a tough opening nine on this course there are always reservations.
This proved so in the return scores today. Bob Lathwell’s net 71 took podium position for Division 2, closely followed by Miss Am and Glyn Evans with 73 each but the young lady’s greater count back took the larger purse.
Magnus Hagesjo’s net 74 came in third in the higher division, with Alan Spinks, one better, but Ben Findon’s net 72 held up to win the first prize.
With an unbelievable handicap rating of 16, the second hole on this course has caused many a nightmare for our players in the past, but an astonishing eagle 2 by Ken Lill put him in the frame for the “two” along with Mikael Andersson who birdied the par three 13th. Miss Nom had the only “two” in the second flight.
The ‘near pin’ prizes were awarded to Dave Street, Miss Nom, Chris Jones and Paddy Wilson. A warm welcome back greeted Andy Mills on his arrival today.
Wednesday, February 7, Crystal Bay, Stableford
Many thanks to Crystal Bay for increasing our tee allocation the previous afternoon but we were still over subscribed for this game and could not accommodate all of our members. After eavesdropping to other society members in the changing room the general chat was that 40 to 42 was the normal winning stableford score.
Ted Morris’s 38 was good enough to win the Division 1 prize, closely followed by Andy Mills, now playing off 7 and Paddy Wilson’s 34 beat Graham Johnson on count back for third place.
After two months of mediocre golf, Miss Amphan Dasa’s remarkable 41 points won her the first prize in Division 2, much to the dismay of Les Hall who thought his 39 was good enough. Tony Duthie came in third with 36 points.
Ted Morris had the only “two” of the day on the B course 6th, so a rollover in Division 2 will ensue next week. Both of Brian Marsden’s shots on the B and C course par threes secured him the nearest the pin prizes, while Fred Duffy and Alan Spinks shared the Div 1 spoils.
The ladies tipple was awarded to Ricky Smith, after a three month holiday in Iraq, his first game back with us, he blobbed on six holes on the front nine ... welcome home Ricky. The lucky draw was won by Ben Findon.
Friday, February 9, Eastern Star, Stableford
As always, the same venue every Friday and the cut today was made at 16 and under.
The organizer’s 33pts drew with Les Hall for first place but lost out on the count back; he was not a happy chappy yet again. Rick Smith’s 32 earned him third prize.
In Division 1 Ken Lill’s 35 points was good enough to beat Mikael Andersson’s 34, with the Angolan bound sandbagger John McLoone finishing third on 33. There might be a small influx of lower handicappers joining us now as he is away for 5 weeks.
Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Paweenas in Soi 5 Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 9am for a 10.30am tee off time. Transport is also available. Please sign up in the bar or ring Glyn on 086 837 5464.


Keith back on the winning trail

PSC golf from The Oohsa Bar

Tuesday, February 6,
Greenwood, Stableford

A Flight
1st Barry Quirk (14) 41pts
2nd David Gardner (12) 38pts
3rd Jeff Wylie (7) 37pts
B Flight
1st Keith Hodges (24) 44pts
2nd Keith Avery (30) 38pts
3rd Su Murphy (33) 36pts
Near Pins: Ron Bowden (2), David Gardner, Kevin Noble
Long Putt: Kevin Noble
A larger than usual field of 31 players assembled for breakfast before setting off for Greenwood. One member of the party was looking for Noble Place but made it to the 2nd tee eventually. The usual regulars were joined by a very welcome group of Aussies on holiday from the Gold Coast. Congratulations to Ron on picking up two near pin prizes.
Greenwood was in its usual fine condition: good fairways and moderately paced greens leading to good scoring. Keith’s excellent score came after a week of serious analysis, practice and some coaching. It clearly paid off. Barry continued his good run with a score over 40 points yet again, well played!
The next date for your diaries is Plutaluang on February 20. See you there!


The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

You’re missing the point, FA

Back to the FA Cup this weekend, but don’t bank on any upsets. Your first live offering will be either Arsenal or Bolton against Blackburn, depending on who won their replay in midweek, and Manchester United are sure to follow later as they take on Reading. In between, surprise, surprise, it’s Chelsea versus either Blackpool or Norwich City.
Assuming Arsenal get past Bolton - though that’s by no means guaranteed, mind you - we’ve got the biggest three sides left in the competition on the TV once again, and all will be playing at their home grounds against lesser opposition.
I can’t help thinking that we’re missing the chance to watch some proper cup football here. They say that the FA Cup is losing its appeal as clubs instead concentrate on their league position, but surely the broadcasters have a responsibility in all this? Rather than show what the FA Cup is all about, we’re saddled with watching the big boys steamroller their way into the next round - again.
That’s probably unfair on Reading in particular, who are this season’s surprise package and kept up their amazing record with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at the weekend. But however good they might be - and incidentally how good does Steve Sidwell look in their midfield - they’ll be hard pressed to find a way past United at Old Trafford.
With that in mind I’m saving my viewing for Sunday, when things pick up in the unpredictability stakes. We’ll be treated to a genuine cup tie as Preston North End host Manchester City at Deepdale, and it’s also a chance to see what all the fuss surrounding Preston striker David Nugent is all about. Later on it’s a London derby as Fulham ‘welcome’ Tottenham to Craven Cottage.
Still, if those in charge want the world watching the FA Cup, or even just hold onto those that already pay attention, I’d suggest that instead of the usual suspects it might be better to show the likes of Watford against Ipswich, or Plymouth’s fixture with Derby County. Yes, the football might not be as pretty as watching Arsenal ponce around their bloody Emirates stadium yet again, but surely we’re treated to enough of expensive teams full of foreign imports doing their stuff each week in the Premiership? Fair enough, the likes of United and Chelsea are the best teams and deserve to be on the box more often than everyone else, but here’s a chance to show just why English football became popular in the first place. It’s seems that some people just don’t understand that.
Stay at home,
imbeciles
Italy’s Sports Minister Giovanna Melandri has slammed the football supporters who whistled during the minute’s silence to honour Filippo Raciti, the policeman killed after fans rioted in Sicily earlier this month.
Raciti died after Catania fans went on the rampage at their team’s derby match against local rivals Palermo. The Italian football federation suspended all domestic matches after the tragedy, while the government promised tough security measures to combat Italian football’s growing hooliganism.
Serie A resumed on Sunday, but Melandri was incensed after some fans at Roma and Torino whistled during a minute’s silence for the dead officer. “Not all the imbeciles stayed at home,” he told La Stampa newspaper on Monday. “With these new regulations these people will be punished and they will be banned from the stadium.”
Napoli fans have
Big ideas
Staying with Italian football, an amazing idea dreamed up by a bunch of Napoli fans on the ‘calcionapoli.it’ website could result in a somewhat surprising signing in the near future.
Everyone remembers Maradona’s shock move to the struggling southern Italian side in the eighties which resulted in a league title for the Partenopei and hero-status for the pint-sized Argentinean.
Well, thanks to the fans, another Barcelona superstar - Ronaldinho, no less - could follow in Maradona’s footsteps by heading to the club, who are currently struggling to get out of Serie B. The idea is this: Ronaldinho has a buy-out clause in his contract of 134 million Euros, an amount that makes him all but untouchable by just about anyone’s standards. But the fans plan to raise just 2 million Euros and place a bet on him to join Napoli at odds of 67/1. After concluding negotiations with Barcelona the Napoli fans plan to pick up their winnings and use them to pay Barca the 134 million.
Presumably they’ll also get their stake back too!
Korean makes a hit ... and another ... and another.
New Middlesbrough signing Lee Dong-Gook has made an instant impression at the club - but at the wrong game. Team-mate Andrew Davies said: “The first day Lee came into the training ground the manager brought him into the dressing room and explained it was where the lads are. He pointed straight at the tennis table and said ‘ping-pong!’ They were his first words. It was funny. It was like he wasn’t bothered about what else was going on, it was the table tennis he wanted. Then we saw why. He started playing with his agent and it was unbelievable; we think we’re good but he just ripped it up. It was like a machine. Nobody wants to play him after that - he is that good.”


Puravarna Phang Nga Bay Regatta opens the 2007 yacht-racing season

by Peter Cummins
According to Duncan Worthington at Phuket, the annual Phang Nga Bay Regatta is now Asia’s second biggest sailing event after the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta and will be sailed this year from February 16-20th.

Limestone karsts provide a dramatic backdrop to the Phang Nga Bay Regatta (photo ArtAsia/Everingham)
The new principal sponsor is Puravarna, an ambitious, high-end villa and resort development in Nai Harn Bay, Phuket, who have signed on this year as the major supporter of this colourful, lifestyle regatta.
The regatta, readying for its tenth sailing this month, became Asia’s second biggest yacht racing event in 2006, when 46 craft competed during the four days, with courses spanning Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi provinces. The organisers were taken by surprise when the regatta grew to this size so quickly, expanding from the average of about 30 boats during previous years. The organisers had earlier planned to limit the event at about 30 boats, for the logistics of a regatta that moves to a new anchorage each day are difficult.
Last year the volunteer committee managed the 46 boats and 300 plus crew around the islands of the Andaman, and the regatta’s reputation for fun, casual sailing in the most beautiful scenery continues to spread rapidly. By the end of January – more than two weeks before this year’s sailing – some 49 yachts had already registered for this year.
The reputation of this event continues to pull in more and more boats – so many that the organisers tried (unsuccessfully) to cap this year’s fleet at 45. Worrying about getting too many entries is an unusual problem. National regattas in regional countries like Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines struggle to get 25 or 30 yachts together to form a respectable fleet. It’s a testimony to the huge potential of sailing along Thailand’s amazing Andaman coast.
This year’s event begins this Friday with the Raimon Land opening party at the Chandara Resort, Ao Po. The next morning five classes will sail around mountainous pillars of rock protruding from the calm seas of Phang Nga Bay – perhaps the most stunning backdrop for any regatta in the world.
The event was initiated in1997, specifically to bring sailing right into the midst of this spectacular marine scenery. The older, more famous Phuket King’s Cup Regatta (by far Asia’s biggest) had become serious, with participants eyeing trophies, reputations and serious sailing in expensive, high-tech boats. They shied away from islands, preferring to race around buoys out in the open ocean.
This fleet will begin in Phuket, heading out into the Bay. This year the first over-night is at Koh Yao Noi, with the evening party held in The Paradise Resort. The second day’s racing, the SEA Yachting Around The Islands Race, will really test the fleet’s skills, winding in and out of a group of beautiful islands off Krabi. The evening party will be held in Krabi Resort. The third day sees the boats head downwind to Phi Phi, where four adjacent resorts on Phi Phi Don’s northern tip have joined to welcome the hundreds of sailors with a beach party.
The final day, the Puravarna Sea Race, takes the fleet back to Phuket where it will finish in southern-most Nai Harn Bay, right off the Puravarna Phuket Yacht Club Hotel (formerly the Phuket Yacht Club Hotel, the home of the King’s Cup Regatta for the first decade). Puravarna has planned a huge final party, a combination regatta finale and Chinese New Year bash for which they have chartered a special plane to fly in stars, models and press from Bangkok. The famed Bed Supper Club of Sukhumvit has been engaged to organise a huge beach party with DJ music, dance, shows, fireworks and a fancy dinner banquet, creating one of the most memorable party events on Phuket’s calendar.
With this huge party planned for the regatta finale, this year’s Puravarna Phang Nga Bay Regatta promises to surpass even its own reputation as Asia’s most fun sailing event.
Other major sponsors of the regatta include Raimon Land PLC, QBE Insurance, Yacht Supply, Artasia Press and the Ao Chalong Yacht Club plus many other Phuket businesses who continue to provide invaluable support for the event.


Rich rolls a 635 series

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 Bowlers – Leen, Nun, Bill, Antero, Rich & Tui.

Montana increased their first place lead after taking all four points from Brother D and VFW Post 9876 won three points from Mai’s Thai Restaurant and remain in second. Bill Gibson rolled a 221 game and 548 series for VFW.
Diamond Shop is still stalking first as they won all four points from Shenanigans. Café Ole was led by Rich Montana’s 635 series, games of 196, 203 and 236, with Antero also bowling well with a 214 game, 547 series. Mio knocked down 546 pins for Golden Coin but her team dropped down into fifth place.
Leen bowled a 205 game and 542 series to lead Three Sisters to a three point win over Domicil. Café Kronborg moved up to fourth place after winning three points from Jack & Tar.


The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

“Your Lordship sometimes when you prepare your award winning column it often seems that you’re getting your information off the police blotter.”
Jeeves, would you be so kind as to explain yourself?
“With pleasure Your Lordship. Lately Scott Harrison has moved to the head of the line. He just seems to be a trolley looking for an accident. First he was an hour late for court in Glasgow when he was scheduled to appear to answer charges that he assaulted a police officer in a pub, then he was supposed to return to Spain to appear in court but that was delayed through no fault of his own. Now it’s reported that on January 11 he avoided bankruptcy by promising to sell some of his property to meet a US$163,397 tax bill. He’s a mess.
“Also former world champion Ricardo Mayorga, who’s no stranger to the ‘old nick’, is in and out again. This time he was in on charges of writing bad checks in his native Nicaragua. Promoter Don King has bailed him out and brought him to the USA for a proposed fight.
“There is no argument but that De La Hoya-Mayweather jr. will be the fight on the century. That’s a safe statement when one considers that the century is only 6 plus years old and boxing is still trying to find the glory it once had. It was just a matter of time until someone came up with a boxing card on “free TV’ to oppose the May 6 mega-fight.
“Enter Don King, who after doing his good deed in getting Mayorga released from the ‘Gray Bar Inn’, then announced he is going to promote a May 6 fight of his own featuring Mayorga against Fernando Vargas. The self-serving press release calls this possible match up ‘mouth-watering’, which may be a stretch. What does make it attractive is ‘free TV’. As every punter knows Your Lordship, ‘free’ is always good.”
Thank you Jeeves. One boxer that has been a resident of the “Concrete Ramada” on occasion is Floyd Mayweather jr. He wants to be recognized as the best in the world and the most popular fighter. If he just allowed his talent in the ring to influence public opinion he’d probably get his wish. Instead he insists on opening his ‘yapper’, flapping his ‘soup coolers’ and spreading his senseless ghetto mentality drivel.
In his mind he’s already beat De La Hoya and now has his sights set on Ricky Hatton. “Ricky Hatton ain’t nothing but a fat man. I’m going to punch him in his beer belly”, Mayweather told BBC Sport. “He ain’t good enough to be my sparring partner … when I retire, I’ll get Ricky Hatton to wash my clothes and cut my lawn and buckle my shoes … I’ve only seen Ricky Hatton fight one time and that was against Urango and he looked like garbage. All he can do is punch and hold, punch and hold and wrestle.”
Hatton, as is his wont, has taken the ‘high road’ and completely ignored the garbage from Mayweather jr. It does though appear that Ricky’s promotional team haven’t really gotten their act together. Last week co-promoter Dennis Hobson was quoted in The Guardian as saying that Lovemore “Not Less” Ndou’s (IBF mandatory defense) would be Hatton’s next payday. Just days later Hatton told the Sky Sports: “The Castillo (fight) will go ahead 100% in June and is going to be in Las Vegas. It is up to my promotional team to sort out with the IBF what is going to happen, but if I am going to have to vacate the belt, sadly that is what I will have to do.”
The Sun tabloid quoted N’dou as saying: “Hatton’s camp lied to the president of the IBF.” The Square Ring would title that bit of information as “Man bites dog.” Late last Saturday Hatton surrendered the IBF Belt. As Grandma Reed use to say, “Good riddance to bad rubbish.”
The Square Ring would be empty without a weekly update on Manny Pacquiao and the “Trials and Tribulations” thereof. The April 14 date for his fight in the San Antonio Alamo dome (Texas) is set in stone as much as anything is set in stone in boxing. Old geezers will remember the Alamo dome as the site of the classic contest between Pernell Whitaker (40-4-1) against Julio Cesar Chavez (108-6-2) back in September of 1993. That one ended in a draw, which prompted most fans to decide that this was the second time that the Mexicans got the best of the Yanks at the Alamo.
With that in mind, Manny Pacquiao better be on guard if, as reported, his opponent is unbeaten Mexican Jorge Solis (32-0-2). What happened to Injin Chi as an opponent? Top Rank is reporting that it was the “lack of hotel rooms” that forced the postponement until September or October. One other minor problem may cause even this fight to be postponed and that would be a lawsuit by Golden Boy Promotions who “claim” to have a signed contract with Pacquiao.
Kind of hard to understand David Tua’s mental process as he reportedly passed up a nice payday of US$170,000 to face former sparing partner Shane Cameron (17-0) in his native New Zealand. Tua instead has chosen to appear against Robert Hawkins (21-6) at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Hard to see how this ‘paid workout’ will enhance Tua’s quest for a heavyweight title shot. On the other hand maybe ‘Dancing with the Stars’ is on the cards.
On tap this Sunday at Wembley Arena, Audley Harrison (21-2) tries to add another “W” to his record against Michael Sprott (29-10) in the hope of attracting a world title opportunity. The star of this card is Amir Khan (10-0), who will get another notch on his winning belt over Craig Watson (7-0).
We talked before about fighters trying to turn back the clock. Well that’s exactly what Shane Mosley (44-4) did last Sunday in Las Vegas when he led from the opening bell in winning a unanimous decision against Luis Collazo (37-3-1). It was Mosley first fight at 147lbs since his glory days and he looked terrific. Those that watched the fight closely, The Square Ring and Judge A. Byrd, had it 119-108 while a couple of judges obviously still in training made it 118-109. HBO who televised the bout in the USA tried to portray Collazo as a “budding super star” which of course is ‘hogwash’. Collazo doesn’t have a lot of power which explains his loss to Ricky Hatton. Regardless, Mosley found the magic elixir which will probably be on sale at a Soi near you.
Jeeves, Jeeves! Where has that man gone? Oh here’s a note: “Your Lordship, Noi and I have gone for a late Valentines dinner. Have left out lager and cigars and you’ll find Diana Washington’s ‘What a Difference a Day Makes’ on the music machine. Please remember to lock up when you retire - Jeeves.”
Well I’ll be.


Thea finds her range at last

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, February 5, Burapha, Stableford
John Hughes won the A Flight in the first Stableford competition of the week at Burapha Golf Course. Geoff Parker was runner-up with 35 points and Tony Scambler was third with 33 points.
The cut was handicap 16 and under and in the B Flight we had a tie for second place between Jack Robertson and Bernie Stevens, who both scored 32 points, but the winner was Eddie Martin going one better with 33 points.
William Macey and Paul Smith shared the spoils in the ‘near pin’ competition winning two prizes each.
Wednesday,
February 7,
Khaow Kheow, Medal
There was a tie for first place at Khaow Kheow on Wednesday, where January’s golfer of the month Mashi Kaneta won along with Geoff Parker, both finishing with net 75 whilst third place went to Paul Smith with net 76.
There was a three-way tie in the B Flight where Thea Van Spellen, Eddy Martin and Andy Pach all finished with net 72 to share first place and ‘near pin’ prizes were shared between Paul Smith, Rocky Jones, Eddie Martin and Brian Maddox.
Friday, February 9, Phoenix, Stableford
The second Stableford comp of the week was held at Phoenix Country Club and Paul Smith was in the prizes again, winning the A Flight with 37 points. William Macey and John Hughes shared the runner-up spot, both scoring 35 points each.
Thea Van Spellen won the B Flight with 41 points ahead of second placed Bernie Stevens and third place was shared by Richard Baldotto and Dougy Landsborough.
‘Near pin’ prizes went to Cyril Wallwork, Paul Smith, Richard Baldotto and Thea Van Spellen, who won her first near pin prize since she returned to Thailand over thirty games ago!


Big Andy Evans does the job at The Emerald

PSC Golf from the Beaver Bar & Grill

Friday’s winners: Trevor, Andy, Apple, Tony and Dennis.

Friday, February 9, The Emerald, Stableford
A total of 26 golfers turned out for the now-regular Friday golf at Emerald Banchang. On a pleasant day with reasonable temperatures and not a breath of wind, there were some fine scores recorded with the winners’ circle being shared by both higher and lower handicap golfers.
Andy Evans, H/cap 33, shot a great round to score 40 points and take the first prize. Tony Oakes (13) came in second with 38 points followed by Dennis Willett (12) with 37 points taking third prize from Trevor Whittle (34) on count back. Bill Knight (20) with 35 points took fifth prize on count back from Apple Jitchana and Bill Thompson (10) respectively.
Trevor Whittle playing with his brother Keith had a good round going until Keith began to emulate Maria Sharapova with a mighty grunt every time he hit driver. Your scribe has been gathering considerable material on Keith’s exploits on golf courses around the world and this will be reported in due course.
Back at the Beaver Bar & Grill the prizes were awarded by starter Dennis Willett in quick order together with a round of lucky draw prizes that were much appreciated by the recipients and their drinking buddies.
Handily located in the centre of the Street of Dreams in Banchang, The Beaver is a new venue which will sponsor regular Friday golf at the Emerald. At this time of year the tee times will vary although all golfers are welcome to show up between 7:30 and 7:45 at the Emerald Banchang and Dennis will make sure that you will have the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf with good company. Breakfast is served at the Beaver starting from 6:30 am.


The European Tour comes to Pattaya

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, February 5, Plutaluang, Stableford
1st Peter Sumner, 40pts
2nd Roar Berger, 37pts (c/b)
3rd Tom Baigent, 37pts
4th Vic Barton, 35pts (c/b)
5th Al Rolnik, 35pts
With The SuperBowl Party going full swing under “The Doc’s” guidance, it was left to Trevor Schirmer to organise the day, and a very good job he did as attested by all the contestants. A large number went off to take on Plutaluang for the first time in a long time. They found the course to be in excellent condition and received a very warm welcome from all the staff and starters.
Peter Sumner took full advantage of the recent tips garnered whilst playing with friends Chris Knapp and Geoff Picking, to amass an unusually high score and easily take the day’s top spot by three from Roar Berger and Tom Baigent. The latter two having to be separated by count back with Roar getting the edge.
Vic Barton and Al Rolnik filled out the rest of the places after they were also in a count back, with Vic getting the nod from the scorers.
Al Rolnik slipped in the only “two” in the First Division whilst the Second Division was shared between Tom Baigent and Vic Barton.
Before presenting the prizes Richard Livingston, the resident PGA professional, welcomed new member George Dolwick and also welcomed back Dean Peterson.
Wednesday, February 7, The Emerald,Stableford
1st Gary Nicholas, 44pts
2nd Paul Taylor, 39pts
3rd Mikael Andersson, 36pts (c/b)
4th Peter Tucker, 36pts (c/b)
5th Roar Berger, 36pts
If people thought that Monday’s winning score was unusual, then Wednesday’s final count up for the leader was in the region of science fiction - with a bit of Hans Christian thrown in. But as the old saying goes, “every dog has its day” and this was definitely the case for Gary Nicholas.
With well over twenty scores in the system at an average of 90 plus, Gary’s winning total proved to be six shots better than his previous best. The jury was placated however, when Gary supplied some amber refreshment following a blast on the hooter, and they were finally convinced of the dog storey.
Paul Taylor was the most surprised after shooting an excellent three-under which would normally be well in front at The Emerald; but here he had to be content with a clear second.
Mikael Andersson led the balance of the podium in with a solid level-par on count back from Peter Tucker and Roar Berger.
Michael Andersson and Martin Grimoldby shared the “twos” in the First Division and Gary Nicholas and Paul Taylor did the same in the second. Martin Grimoldby’s “two” came on the par-4 dog leg 2nd hole, having driven the green.
With Richard again unable to attend due to ill health, “The Doc” welcomed new member Magnus Hagesjo and welcomed back Brian Libbey and Martin Grimoldby.
Friday, February 9, Pattaya C.C., Stableford
1st Philip Golding, 37pts
2nd Tom Breslin, 34pts (c/b)
3rd Glynn Nicholas, 34pts (c/b)
4th Peter Sumner, 33pts
With many societies holding competitions on the day, the turnout for Pattaya C.C. was a lot less than usual, but the current high green fee at the course was also possibly a factor.
One of the contenders on the day was Philip Golding, a member of the PGA European Tour and the Haven’s honorary touring professional, who was in transit to play in the Indonesian Open in Jakarta the following week. Phil won playing from the blue tees, to add The Haven to an already impressive winning CV that includes the Swiss Open, The Mauritius Open and The French Open, his last big one before this triumph. After being declared the winner, Phil had a few words of encouragement for all the club players and a long round of applause followed with many good wishes for his future success, especially in the coming week.
Almost as an afterthought, Richard presented the balance of the prizes to Tom Breslin, Glynn Nicholas and Peter Sumner.
The “twos” pool for the First Division was shared by Peter Sumner and Philip Golding and the Second Division by Gunbjorg Gunnarson and Dave Lee. It was the first time in a competition from The Haven that a “two” had been achieved from each of the red, white and blue tees.
Before the prize giving Richard welcomed Magne and Gunbjorg Gunnarson and Philip Golding and also reserved a special mention for the return of Stephen Beard to competitive singles golf after an absence of nearly three years.


Phlutaluang caddies injured in golf cart accident

The 2 Plutaluang caddies were injured after the golf cart they were riding on overturned.

Patcharapol Panrak
Two caddies at Phlutaluang Golf course received broken bones on February 8 when the golf cart they were riding on overturned.
The two were identified as Mrs. Bunloet Suwanawongse, 45, of Phlutaluang, Sattahip who was thrown out of the cart and suffered a broken left arm. The other victim was identified as Mrs. Phairo Pamayon, 41, of Phlutaluang, Sattahip who was run over by the cart and broke her left leg.
Mrs. Bunloet said that she and her fellow caddie were riding on the back of the cart when it went down a hill at high speed and flipped over on the wet slippery grass. She added that the golfer who was driving it probably wasn’t accustomed to the route.
Rochanathamsathaan Foundation rescue workers attending the scene provided first aid to the two injured victims before sending them to Somdej Phra Nang Chao Sirikit Hospital.


Feel ready for a challenge? Why not sign up for the River Kwai Adventure Race?

In the 1970s, people ran marathons. In the 1990s, they competed in triathlons. Today, the sweat factor has been increased with the emergence of adventure racing.

The River Kwai Adventure Race features trail running, mountain biking, swimming and paddling in the magnificent surroundings of the Kwai Valley.

Adventure racing is a new and very fast growing sport that integrates physical and mental endurance, teamwork, the great outdoors and adventure. The race is a non-stop expedition during which teams ranging in size from 2 to 5 competitors must complete a course from checkpoint to checkpoint as a group. Teams travel by methods such as mountain biking, trail running, canoeing, rafting, rappelling and more.
Teamwork, determination, perseverance, strategy, endurance and toughness are the main principles guiding teams trough the woods, rivers, lakes, and mountains in the course of a typical adventure. Races can last from a few hours to several days.
Next month The North Face River Kwai Adventure Race 2007 will take place Saturday, March 10 in Sayoke district Kanchanaburi. The route will travel along scenic trails, exploring the mountains and farmlands of western Thailand and the magnificence of the Kwai valley.
This sprint adventure race (Single day Race) is designed to take 3-6 hours to complete. Teams of 2 persons will compete in trail running, mountain biking, swimming and paddling while testing their navigational skills trough the picturesque landscape.
The course has been designed to be challenging for the seasoned athlete, yet achievable to the new adventure racer as there will be 2 different levels: Adventure: For beginners and relatively fit persons and Extreme: For athletes and experienced Adventure Racers.
If anyone feels up to the challenge you can get more information on the event by contacting the organizers at 02 6763869 (Nid or Sassi), call the race director on 081 922 71 00 or visit www.riverkwaitrophy.com.