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Radwanska saves match point to win 2008 Pattaya Women’s Open
Guido Roth & Associated Press
Top-seeded Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland won the Pattaya Women’s
Open last Sunday, saving a match point before topping seventh-seeded
Jill Craybas of the United States 6-2, 1-6, 7-6 (4) in the final.
 Polish
tennis starlet Agnieszka Radwanska captured the 2008 Pattaya Women’s
Tennis Open last weekend at the Dusit Thani Pattaya Resort.
Radwanska squandered two match points and a 5-1 lead in the third set.
Craybas fought back to earn a match point at 6-5 but netted a forehand
and lost it in the tiebreaker.
“I was surprised that the first two sets were easy and then I was up 5-1
in the third,” Radwanska said. “Then she came back and was fighting
until the last point. I had two match points but I didn’t make them. It
was a drama.
“Then I was down 5-6 and faced a match point. I was lucky to win the
last point.”
For her second career title, 18-year-old Radwanska will improve on her
world No. 21 ranking into the top 20 for the first time.
 Agnieszka
Radwanska (right) and Jill Craybas (left) hold up the winner’s and
runner’s up trophies respectively following the final of the 2008
Pattaya Women’s Open.
The US$ 170,000 tournament, part of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour, had
started the previous week with the qualification rounds. Xu Yi-Fan and
Zhou Yi-Miao, both from China, Vesna Manasieva from Russia and Akiko
Yonemura from Japan won all their games and made it to the main draw.
Sybille Bammer from Austria did not play to defend her title from last
year but India’s Sania Mirza kept her promise and showed up, though she
couldn’t play due to a left adductor muscle strain.
 Radwanska
powers a backhand down the line in the opening set.
In the first two rounds, Thailand’s “Tammy” Tanasugarn had surprising
victories over both Russians Anastasia Rodionova and Olga Poutchkova,
but lost her quarter final match to No. 1 seeded Radwanska in straight
sets 6:2, 6:3. Both other Thai players, Nudnida Luangnam and Noppawan
Lertcheewakarn lost their openers in straight sets.
Second seeded Casey Dellacqua from Australia beat Japanese qualifier
Yonemura in her opener 6:2, 6:3, but was beaten by Andreja Klepac in the
next round. The unseeded Slovene won 7:5, 2:6, 6:2.
Lilia Osterloh from the US beat China’s Zhang Shuai 7:5, 6:2 in the
first round, No 4 seeded Taiwanese Chan Yung-Jan proved to be too
strong, beating Osterloh 6:4, 6:2 and Vania King, winner of the Bangkok
Open 2006, was unlucky in having to play Radwanska in the first round.
The American lost a close match 7:5, 7:6 (5).
 Experienced
campaigner Craybass gave her young Polish opponent a real battle in the
final, taking the match to a third set tiebreaker.
The third American in the tournament, Jill Craybas, was one of the most
experienced players at the Pattaya Open. The 33 year old made it to the
final, where she faced the 18-year old Polish starlet.
The first two sets couldn’t have been more contrasting - the first one
ending 6:2 for Radwanska but Craybas stormed back to take the second set
6:1. It was the first set Radwanska had dropped in the whole tournament.
The final set flipped again as Radwanska burned ahead 5-1. But she
missed match points at 5-2 and 5-4 as Craybas leveled the score then had
match point at 6-5.
Radwanska called for a trainer to check blisters on her left foot,
taking time to compose herself before holding serving to stay in the
match and take it into a tiebreaker, which she won 7-4 on a favorable
netcord after 2 hours, 4 minutes.
It was one of the closest finals in the history of the Pattaya Open.
Craybas, trying to win her second WTA Tour title and first since 2002,
said she gave it her best shot.
“I fought my hardest and gave it 100 percent out there, so I have no
regrets about it,” Craybas said.
“At 5-5, I thought that I would pull through. I wished that I could have
been more aggressive and confident in the match point.”
In addition to the US$ 25,650 prize money and the trophy, Radwanska
received 115 Champions Race points.
At the presentation ceremony, both players thanked the organizers,
Pattaya City and Dusit Resort, and received the prizes from Pracha
Taerat, Governor of Chonburi, and Itthipol Khunplome, advisor to the
mayor of Pattaya.
The double’s competition was won by no 1 seeded Chan Yung-Jan and Chuang
Chia-Jung from Taiwan. They beat the no 2 seeded couple Hsieh Su-Wei,
also from Taiwan, and American Vania King 6:4, 6:3.
Duncan takes two with Wylie close behind
PSC golf from P J Pool Bar
Thursday’s winners (Left to
Right): Neil Duncan, Roy Pimblett,
Mike Brooke and Jeff Wylie.
Tuesday February 5, Century Chonburi
(White Tees) - Stableford
Eighteen turned out to play Century Chonburi which is a course
that accurately reflects the combined green and caddy fees of 400 baht.
In the lower handicap (0-17) division, Neil Duncan (H/C 14) ripped the
course apart with a ‘magnificent’ 25 stableford points to take top spot
ahead of Jeff Wylie (H/C 7) on back nine count back. Peter Coombs (H/C 8)
claimed third place with 24 points.
In the higher handicap (18+) division the scoring was nearer to handicaps
with Thong Pimblett (H/C 33) taking top spot with a handicap matching 33
points ahead of the ever-consistent Mike Brooke (H/C 22) with 30 points.
Mick Heatley (H/C 30) came third with one less point than his handicap.
Two near pins were claimed by Thong Plimblett and Willie Nachbur whilst the
other two remained with the course. The longest first putt on the 18th green
was unconvincingly slammed home by Neil Duncan from the very edge of the
green. The average score for the day was 25 points accurately reflecting the
course’s degree of difficulty.
As an aside it transpires that our man that recently emerged from the very
bowels of the Earth near Newcastle, England was indeed blackballed recently
by a person or perhaps persons unknown when he tried to play with a grope
uninvited. Better luck next time Paco but we are pleased to have you join us
in the meantime.
Thursday February 7, The Emerald (White Tees) – Stableford
Twenty-two of us turned up to take on The Emerald and we were
started promptly at our booked tee times. Benefiting from some recent rain
the course was in excellent condition and the venue seems to improve each
time we visit.
The division split was the same as on Tuesday and in the lower handicap
division (0-17) Neil Duncan (H/C 14) continued to putt superbly having just
41 of them this day to claim first place with 35 points, again just ahead of
Jeff Wylie (H/C 7) who had 32 points in second spot after beating Frank
Waterhouse (H/C 14) into third place on count back. Dave Arrow-Smith (H/C 4)
came in fourth with 30 points.
In the higher handicap division (18+), Roy Pimblett (H/C 20) took top spot
with 32 points, with second place going to Mike Brooke (H/C 22) with 31
points. On a three-way 30-point count back, Frank W-W (H/C 27) snatched
third spot away from Paul Smylie (H/C 27) who came fourth. The average score
was 27 points.
Near pins were won by Neil Duncan (2), Willie Nachbur and Peter Wilson
whilst Paul Smylie had the longest putt on the 18th green. Gordon Long was
awarded the Paradise Bar golf shirt in recognition of his enjoying the most
golf on the day.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the
group’s format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan
(Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.
Bobby dazzles despite the hold-ups
PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar
Paul Donahue
The Koreans are back, the Japanese are here and it was only 07:00
hrs in the morning! We were lucky that we always have an early tee time at
the Pattaya C.C. as the bus loads of Japanese and about 10 minivans of
Koreans arrived. Our groups moved along pretty well until two foursomes
jumped in at the 10th hole.
 Tuesday’s
winner Bobby Clark (left) with second placed Sus Ige.
Marshalling could be better. Caddies were told at the 18th to hurry up as
there was a large group waiting at the number one tee needing caddies. Good
business.
Bobby Clark and the usual early group teed off before 7AM as our group
followed. Bobbie finally got things going as he came in with 38 points to
win the day. Sus Ige was near the top again as he scored 36 points to come
in second.
The Murphy’s came in third along with Bob Pearce tied at 33 points. Rich and
Dale had an average day. Dale is normally in with a higher score - he just
couldn’t get it going.
Anyway, be sure to get out there early as large numbers of visitors may be
expected over the next few weeks and I’m sure there will be further log jams
on the 1st tee box.
Prakong ‘demolishes’ the field at Phoenix
Phoenix Golf Club Members Group
Mike Gerrard
Sunday February 10, Members Stableford
How nice to come back from a very tiring 7 days in the U.K.
(which was 6 days too much) to the place I had originally decided was going
to be home for the rest of my life. After the sleet and rain with cold
gusting northerly winds and freezing temperatures, coupled with the high
cost of living and the general dismal attitude of people, it made me realise
how fortunate we all are to be in paradise.
This was even more apparent when I stepped out onto the golf course for the
first time in 3 months (now my ankle is better) thinking I did not need to
pack a wet suit and wear 6 layers of clothes. Nor did I have to carry or
push my own bag of clubs round the course.
I prattle on about this because we get so blasé about our lot here that it
took this trip to make me realise that it is so nice to be able to play bad
golf in such lovely conditions. Who cares about the bad shots, dogs on the
course, tourists bawling and shouting, slow play, and the occasional snakes
in the grass (animal type I mean). It all becomes irrelevant when we get to
the 19th and a nice cool beer washes all the cares away.
Well, onto the day’s golf. An over subscribed field of 9 groups today was
accommodated by the management of Phoenix, and we set out to tackle the
Ocean and Mountain course. After a slow start the pace picked up a little
and play was reasonably quick considering the busy time of the year.
After the first few holes it looked like we were going to get a good
drenching, but Buddha or God smiled on our group and we escaped any rain.
Again, as usual, the scores today were very good indeed and the Champagne
and flutes went to Prakong Robinson, demolishing the rest of the field by
some distance. Second place went to Ben Hogstrom and third was Pia Loquist
who both received a nice bottle of red wine each.
With 5 new guests playing today we awarded a token prize of a sleeve of
balls to Paul Walker for his best guest score.
Technical prizes went to Bob Deane, Neil McAllister, Ron Bridge and Jorn
Lillelund.
Two lucky draw prizes went to Mike Poustie and Bob Potter.
Note: We now have very good co-operation from most players regarding
arriving early to register for the day. We had nearly all of the field of 36
players signed up by 11.30am today. By arriving early it gives the
organisers chance to sort out the teams of players and also manage to get
their own heads together for their own round of golf. Under the new rules
set out a few weeks ago, arriving after 11.30 am could mean we have to
refuse you a place in the group if we are full.
Guests who are brought unannounced by existing members may be refused a game
if there is a full compliment of members and guests who have been booked in
(by phone 08 709 17565) at least 24 hours in advance.
MBMG Pattaya Golf
Matchplay League 2008
Monday February 4, Burapha
Outback Golf Bar (Home) 4½ v 5½ Tropical
Berts (Away)
Barry Chadbourn (won 1 up)
v Brian Downey
Jack Moseley (lost 1 down)
v Anders Pedersen
Gary Blackburne (won 3 & 2) v
Hans Collet
Steve Morton (lost 5 & 3)
v Scott Dobbins
Don Frances (won 3 & 2)
v Dick Warburg
Mike Waltschek (won 7 & 5)
v Tommy Bjorklund
Tony Oakes (lost 3 & 2)
v Richard Line
Sugar Ray Hanford (lost 1 down) v Mick O’Meara
Jack Spencer (lost 4 & 2)
v Dave Arrowsmith
Bernie Segrave (halved)
v Perry McNeely
It was an important day for the Outbackers, they wanted to maintain
their 100% record and stay top. However Tropical Berts fielded a very
strong side and marginally took the win, overturning the Outback Golf
Bar on their home course.
Wednesday February 6, Burapha
Kronborg (Home) 2
v 8 Tony’s Storm Troopers (Away)
Marcus Simmonds (lost 4 & 3) v Andy Mills
Dave Richardson (lost 5 & 4) v Dave Richards
John Locke (won 2 & 1)
v Chris Holmes
Peter Hammond (lost 3 & 1) v Kevin
McIntosh
Jan Lovgren (lost 3 & 2)
v Dave Smith
Leif Kirkgaard (lost 3 & 2)
v G. Bowers
Phil Battah (lost 5 & 4)
v Brian Jacks
Mike Rushant (lost 4 & 3)
v Alan Duffus
Graham Buckingham (won 3 & 2) v Sam Fitzsimmonds
Bent Moeller (lost 5 & 4) v Ben Findon
Café Kronborg are still searching for that first win, but whilst John
Locke & Graham Buckingham both recorded wins, the rest of the team were
comprehensibly beaten by Tony’s Storm Troopers. Dave Richardson said
afterwards that the course was very wet producing little run on the
fairways, but the greens were very good and he felt that the Kronborg
were just a few putts away from reversing the score.
Wednesday February 6, Bangpra
Bunker (Home) 4½
v 5½ Caddyshack (Away)
John Graham (lost 6 & 5) v Vincent Smythe
Geoff Parker (won 2 & 1) v Matt Anderson
Gerry Cooney (lost 3 & 2) v Barry Fitzpatrick
Alan Freeman (won 1 up) v Brendan McGovern
Mashi Kaneta (lost 5 & 4) v Damien Trent
John Hughes (won 1 up) v Peter Henderson
Paul Smith (lost 1 down) v Jeff North
Tony Robbins (lost 4 & 3) v Mike Ling
William Macey (halved) v Graham Beaumont
Jack Robertson (won 1 up) v Joey Clines
This was another finely balanced match and could have gone either way
with five of the individual matches going down the 18th. The Bunker came
out on top in three of those, but it was not enough to stop the
Caddyshack win, putting them top of the league with 3 wins out of 3.
NB: For further information about the MBMG Pattaya Golf Matchplay
League or if you would like to play, please contact Jack at the Outback
Golf Bar or email [email protected].
Ants in your pants
Golf from the Travellers Rest
Saturday’s prize winners
at Emerald: David Thomas, Jack Robertson,
Jean Murphy, Paddy Murphy, Amphan North, Tewin Lamthong, Marcell Martin,
Greg Mason, Steve Carlton and Robert Lamond
Barry Hooper
This week’s headline may seem a little strange. However all will
be revealed in the Saturday report so please read on.
Monday February 4, Greenwood A & C - Stableford
A Flight (0-16)
1st Tony Perry (16) 42pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (8) 37pts
3rd Ray Allison (15) 34pts
4th Liam Keegan (13) 34pts
B Flight (17-up)
1st Greg Mason (23) 44pts
2nd Donald Pearson (36) 39pts
3rd Eric Dunlop (29) 38pts
4th Peter Morris (26) 37pts
Near Pin: Amphan North, Rodney Beckett, Maureen Coy
2’s: Amphan North
Winner of the A Flight at Greenwood on Monday was Tony Perry with 42
points, followed by Fergus Brennan on 37 points and a further three back
in third on count back was Ray Allison.
B Flight had Greg Mason with 44 points at the top with Donald Pearson
five back on 39 points for second and Eric Dunlop in third with 38.
Only the one ‘2’ was recorded and that was by Amphan North.
Tuesday February 5, Bangpra – Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Danny Whelan (13) 41pts
2nd Hugh Byrne (13) 35pts
3rd Robert Lamond (12) 35pts
4th John Merritt (14) 34pts
B Flight (15-20)
1st Robert Wood (16) 36pts
2nd Brendan Moore (15) 34pts
3rd Derek Lucas (19) 31pts
4th Keith Marsden (17) 31pts
C Flight (21-up)
1st Paula Byrne (30) 36pts
2nd Donald Pearson (28) 34pts
3rd Alun Webber (23) 32pts
4th Jack Robertson (22) 29pts
Near Pin: Steve Carlton, Robert Lamond, Paul Metcalfe, Robert
Wood
2’s: Liam Keegan.
Danny Whelan led the A Flight home at Bangpra on Tuesday with 41 points;
Hugh Byrne came second on 36 and Robert Lamond was third with 35 points.
B Flight saw Robert Wood on top with 36 points, Brendan Moore was two
back on 34 in second and Derek Lucas took third on a count back 31
points.
The C Flight was headed by Paula Byrne’s 36 points, Donald Pearson came
second for the second day in a row on 34 points and Alun Webber was
another two points further adrift in third.
Thursday February 7, Phoenix Lakes & Ocean –
Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Amphan North (13) 38pts
2nd John Merritt (14) 38ptss
3rd Liam Keegan (13) 37pts
4th Peter Ennis (11) 37pts
B Flight (15-19)
1st Brendan Moore (15) 39pts
2nd David McFeely (17) 34ptss
3rd Ray Allison (15) 33pts
4th Jimmy Chawke (15) 32pts
C Flight (20-up)
1st Tewin Lamthong (20) 39pts
2nd Maureen Coy (31) 35ptss
3rd Alun Webber (23) 35pts
4th Jack Robertson (22) 35pts
Near Pin: John O Leary, Bob Richardson, Amphan North, Bart
Reynolds
2’s: Danny Whelan and Liam Keegan.
Thursday and off we headed to the Lakes and Ocean courses at Phoenix.
This course is always accommodating and it was in excellent condition.
Our numbers were very big but we still managed to get around before
dark..
This was a ladies day with Amphan North taking first place in A Flight
on a count back 38 points from John Merritt. In third was Liam Keegan,
again on count back, from Peter Ennis.
Brendan Moore made it one better than Tuesday with top spot in B Flight
with 39 points. Second was David McFeelly five back on 34 and Ray
Allison came third on 33.
Tewin Lamthong, back in form after her break, topped C Flight with 39
points. Fellow lady player Maureen Coy was second on 35 points on count
back over Alun Webber who was in his last outing before returning to
Wales. Jack Robertson also finished with 35 points but pulled the short
straw on this occasion.
Saturday February 9, Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st David Thomas (6) 38pts
2nd Robert Lamond (12) 38ptss
3rd Amphan North (13) 37pts
4th John Merritt (14) 34pts
B Flight (15-20)
1st Tewin Lamthong (19) 36pts
2nd David McFeely (17) 36ptss
3rd Chaten Patel (16) 35pts
4th Greg Mason (20) 34pts
C Flight (21-up)
1st Jean Murphy (21) 41pts
2nd Jack Robertson (22) 36ptss
3rd Marcel Martin (36) 33pts
4th Paula Byrne (30) 32pts
Near Pin: Danny Whelan(2), David Thomas, Bart Reynolds
2’s: Steve Gould, Alan Evans, John O’Leary
Saturday saw a change of venue this week as we headed off to the
Emerald. We had a very large entry which proves just how popular this
course has become. It may not be the longest around but is a true test
of golf with its rolling fairways and sometimes if not always difficult
lies..
David Thomas had no problems with the lies though as he mastered the
course with a great 38 points. Robert Lamond was second with the same
score but losing on count back. Amphan North was just the one back in
third and in fourth was John Merritt with 34 points.
The B Flight had Tewin Lamthong at the top with 36 points, David
McFeeley was second on count back over Chaten Patel (both with 35
points) and Greg Mason had fourth spot all to himself with 34 points.
Jean Murphy took C Flight with a great 41-pointer, in second was Jack
Robertson on 36, third was Marcell Martin on 33 and in fourth was Paula
Byrne with 32 points.
Now it is back to an explanation for the headline this week. The members
on the course at the fifteenth fairway at Emerald must have thought that
one player (no name mentioned) had lost the plot when he started to
strip off his shorts and underwear and jump about shouting in a wild
dance. Caddies fortunately turned their heads as did a lady player in
the group. The explanation was that an “ant” had gone where no ant
should go and was biting and had to be forcefully removed. Fortunately
caddies in the group had tiger balm with them and this was duly
administered much to the relief of the player.
Reminder - If anyone is interested in golfing with the Travellers Rest
we play every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at 7:45am
for breakfast and transportation and new players are always made to feel
welcome. Call Tewin on 086 056 7019 for further information.
Hewson wins A Flight
with 73 off the stick
PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Joey’s Column
Monday February 4, Burapha - Stableford
Div A (0-15)
1st Mark Bamber (8) 40pts
2nd Bob Philp (8) 38pts
3rd Gerry Morton (12) 34pts
4th Ken Little (12) 34pts
Div B (16-19)
1st Keith Hector (17) 40pts
2nd Carl Lovatt (18) 37pts
3rd Dougie (19) 35pts
4th Don Pavlovic (16) 33pts
Div C (20+)
1st John King (28) 40pts
2nd Joachim (27) 40pts
3rd Dennis Persson (20) 38pts
4th Geoff Doody (23) 36pts
Sixteen Tee times today, so once again a full field and some very
unseasonable weather caught a good half of the field later in the day as the
sky opened up, but fortunately with no thunder and lightning. There was the
league match out in front against Tropical Bert’s - which regrettably was
lost - and then there was Barry.
Barry teed-off convinced that if he swung hard enough the resulting wind
would propel the ball forwards. It worked on the tee box, the ball ending up
somewhat short of the lady’s. Quite nonchalantly, he took out his 3-wood,
walked to his ball and had another 3 swipes based on seemingly the same
principal, however this time it didn’t move. Suzi, waiting to tee off by the
lady’s tee box, took compassion and handed him a beer, which he happily
accepted. He then glanced back and noticing some 20 Outbackers still waiting
to play, picked up his ball, climbed in his cart and headed off down the
fairway.
The Norfolk raiders are still here this week and that Mark (or is it Mork?)
did it again with 40 points off the whites on C & D course. Keith Hector
took ‘B’ Division and John King ‘C’ Division also both with 40 points each.
Well played guys!
There were eight 2’s today from Bob Philp, Jack Spencer, Bob Martin, Jack
Moseley, Mark Bamber, Geoff Doody, Peter Marsh and Scott Dobbins.
Barry Rothberg was awarded ‘the Outback Golf shirt’, for you know what!
Wednesday February 6, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Div A (0–11)
1st Mike Waltschek (7) 35pts
2nd Nick Collins (11) 32pts
3rd Marty Allred (0) 32pts
Div B (12-19)
1st Ian Covill (15) 33pts
2nd Paul Whitelock (13) 33pts
3rd Alan Bishop (18) 29pts
Div C (20+)
1st Kathy Doody (21) 41pts
2nd John King (28) 31pts
3rd Peter Marsh (22) 30pts
This course continues to be a tough test of golf with only Kathy Doody
beating her handicap with a brilliant 41 points. Mike Waltschek was the best
of the guys, grinding out 35 points.
A warm welcome goes to Nick Collins & Paul Whitelock, both on holiday from
UK, and both who played well for their 32 & 33 points respectively, which is
pretty much to handicap allowing for course and weather differentials. Don’t
leave it so long next time Paul, before you come back
There were four 2’s today from Barry Chadbourn, Paul Whitelock, Kathy Doody
& Frank Fawley.
Friday February 8, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
Div A (0–13)
1st Dave Hewson (6) 41pts
2nd Bob Wighton (10) 36pts
3rd Bob Philp (8) 35pts
Div B (14–19)
1st Carl Lovatt (18) 37pts
2nd Alan Pearce (18) 34pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (17) 32pts
Div C (20+)
1st Ray Underwood (27) 31pts
2nd Terry Vicaly (26) 30pts
3rd Dennis Persson (20) 29pts
Well, after the fiasco of 2 weeks ago at this course, it’s pleasing to
report that the Outbackers teed off on time and enjoyed the gently rolling
fairways of a Pattaya Country Club that had noticeably benefited from the
recent local rains. That was until about the 15th/16th hole when this
tranquillity was broken by a vicious local storm of high winds, lashing
horizontal rain and a temperature drop down to around 21 degrees. It lasted
about 40 minutes during which time copious amounts of beer were consumed at
the Amen corner drink stop. Back at the bar meantime - not a drop of rain!
Where was I? Oh yes, those Norfolk raiders, well the other one got us today,
playing off of 6, Dave Hewson shot a fabulous 73 gross; and a tap in birdie
‘2’. Well played Dave!
There were nine 2’s today from Dave Hewson, Bob Martin, Mike Waltschek,
Steve Morton, Bob Pearce, Ray Underwood, Ray Luttman, Kathy Doody & Nick
Collins.
Paul Whitelock, after flattering at Khao Kheow, was awarded the Outback Golf
shirt for his valiant 21 pts today.
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or
suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road
along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a
hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on
087 941 2474. More information can be found on our website www.
outbackgolfbar.com. This month’s bus trip is to Royal Lakeside on Wednesday
20th Feb.
Raivo and Jack shoot 69
at Phoenix
Jomtien Golf with the I.P.G.C.
Monday, February 4, Plutaluang – Stableford
After leaving Siam Cats at around 8.45am, in what seemed like
perfect conditions, the skies gradually became gloomier as we headed
towards Plutaluang. By the time we reached Bang Saray the rain had
started and became heavier as we neared the course. As we drove in, the
first hole on the east course was completely waterlogged so after an
hours wait with intermittent rain we decided to abandon the day.
Wednesday, February 6, Phoenix - Monthly Medal
It was the Lakes and Ocean courses selected today for the
dreaded first Wednesday of the month and surprisingly almost a full
house. With hardly any breeze today, which is very unusual for this time
of the year, it turned out to be a very hot day.
Two count backs in both divisions were needed to establish third places
in today’s medal. In the second division Richard Baldotto’s 36/31 back
nine beat Dave Ross after they both finished on net 72, while in second
was Mam Morel with a net 70 and the winner was Jack Hinchey with a net
69.
Into the top division now and Mike Fitzgerald beat Ted Morris on count
back for third place after they both finished with net 74’s. Runner up
Harry Cowling was on net 71 and Raivo Velsberg, playing off 9, was the
winner with a great round and a net 69.
In the 2’s with two rollovers plus the day’s purse in division 1 and one
in division 2, there were yet again no winners. Near pins went to Harry
Cowling, Barry Stirling, Raivo Velsberg, Gordon Everingham, Ken Foster,
Jack Hinchey and Dave Ross.
Friday, February 8, Eastern Star – Stableford
A few dark clouds in the distance stirred thoughts of a
repetition of Monday, but as we arrived it was a different story, blue
sky all around.
Thirty five points was enough to win both divisions today with Ted
Morris first in Division 1, Keith Hector second with 33 points and Raivo
Velsberg third on count back. Glyn Evans took Division 2 honours with
Tarja Kankainen coming second with a back 3 count back of 8/6 that edged
Andy Oz into third after they both finished with 33 points.
An incredible three rollovers plus the day’s pot in Division 1 in the
2’s competition and still no winners, probably the longest we have
experienced. In recent times there have been more 2’s winners in
Division 2 and more frequently as well so well done to Cully Monks and
Rudi Schafer today.
Nearest the pins were shared by Mikael Andersson, Jim Connelly, David
Jones, Andy Oz (2) and Rudi Schafer.
Note: Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at
Siam Cats on Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 8.30am for a 10.30 tee
off. Please sign up in the bar or call Glyn on 086 837 5464.
Poussier by one
at Bangpakong
PSC golf from The Café Kronborg
Derek Brook
Monday February 4, Treasure Hill –
Stableford
Treasure Hill was under a light to heavy mist
most of the first nine holes. The course was still in very fine condition though
considering the very heavy rainfalls over the weekend. It was tough and most
holes were not giving up much as was reflected in the scores.
 Patrick
Poussier was the A Flight winner at Bangpakong on Thursday.
Maurice Herberge took the A Flight with 35 points, ahead of Steady Ebrahim
with 33 points in second and Ted Morris in third with 30 points on a count
back over Jan Anderson.
Graham Buckingham won the B Flight with 33 points, with Laurinne Brinne
second on 30 points and Jan Lovgren in third with 29 points on a count back
over Leif Kirkegaarde.
Near Pin: Leif Kirkegaarde (2), Daryl Evans
Long Putt: Leif Kirkegaarde, Kris Helgasson
Thursday February 7, Bangpakong –
Stableford
This is one of the longest days out, mind it
is also the longest day that no one appears to mind. Of course the peace and
quiet of the walk around has a lot to do with it.
The day started as normal with a meet at the Cafe Kronborg, then into the
buses for the long haul to the course. This is a long drive, but lately the
roads have been much improved and now it is nearly all motorway.
Usually we have a long wait here on the first tee, at least 30 minutes
normally, but on this day we were only 10 minutes or so late. This was made
up for though with having to wait for every shot and a round of well over 5
hours.
This is a course that you can take your time to smell the roses. At every
tee there is a nice place to sit, and it is so open that all enjoy the walk.
Time seems to pass quickly.
Much later in the restaurant it was seen that the scores were very good. In
the A Flight (0-19) the winner was Patrick Poussier with 39 points ahead of
a count back for second on 38 points that saw Mike Winfield in second and
yours truly, Derek Brook in third. In fourth was Peter Hammond with 37
points.
In the B Flight the winner was Carole Kubicki with 38 points ahead of Graham
Buckingham in second with 37 points, Daryl Evans in third with 33 points and
Colin Swann fourth with 32 points. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Pier Dardenne, Don Richardson, Derek Brook, Kris Helgasson
Long Putt: Art Bailey, Edwin Harri
Gill skins a pair of haggis for his Sunday dinner
IPGC Golf from Lewinski’s
Sunday February 3, Green Valley -
Stableford
A Flight
1st Chas Li (8) 39pts
2nd Steve Mascari (4) 36pts
3rd Grant Jackson (6) 35pts
B Flight
1st Gareth Gill (12) 45pts
2nd Jim Munns (12) 40pts
3rd David Driscoll (14) 38pts
C Flight
1st Chris Leack (25) 42pts
2nd Peter Emslie (19) 35pts
3rd John Hartington (17) 35pts
Ladies
1st Trudy Chadburn (24) 33pts
2nd Mol Thongjiew (16) 33pts
Gareth Gill shouldn’t be in B Flight and probably won’t be any more after
this one- 75 off the stick for the round of his life and 45 points. More
importantly for Gareth was payback time as he bounced back from recent
maulings to skin his two jock mates in fine style. Seems he picked up 15 of
the available skins.
We English don’t take the Auld enemy clashes as seriously as our neighbours
north of the border, but as Gareth knows it’s still always nice to beat ‘em
and pocket their dough.
The flight where Gareth should be went to Chas Li, where it was interesting
to see our old leader back as Steve Mascari secured second with 36 points.
Steve’s in fine form right now off 4 and is my tip for next week’s Gold
Medal. You heard it here first!
Monday February 4, Greenwood - Stableford
1st Gordan Kerr (10) 38pts
2nd Pueschl Ayoko (12) 37pts
3rd Linda Lee (25) 37pts
The Galloping Golfer is playing as well as his beloved Arsenal right now. He
mustered 38 points to take the Monday title, just ahead of Pueschl and
Linda. No sign of the Donkey today- unusual for a Monday.
Wednesday February 6, Khao Kheow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Andy Redmond (15) 36pts
2nd Bob Lindburg (16) 35pts
3rd Paul Walia (12) 33pts
B Flight
1st Larry Nicholas (19) 34pts
2nd David Somers (18) 33pts
3rd Terry Wagner (17) 33pts
Andy Redmond found even par enough for top spot in A Flight. The Guru of
Green Valley again proved he can also perform on the road as he took second,
two ahead of Larry’s mate Paul. Larry himself had the best of B Flight where
Dave Somers counted out Terry Wagner for second
Friday February 8, Eastern Star - Stableford
A Flight
1st Paul Shaw (9) 44pts
2nd Steve Mulberry (12) 38pts
3rd Ray Dell (13) 36pts
B Flight
1st Terry Wagner (17) 42 pts
2nd John Hartingan (17) 36pts
3rd Mike Craighead (22) 35pts
Friday belonged to the Boys from Blackpool as seasiders Paul Shaw and Steve
Mulberry took first and second in the top division. It might’ve been a
Blackpool 1-2-3 had Wireless Wilkinson been in town. Then again, maybe not.
Whatever, Paul’s 44 off 9 deserves special mention and must rival Gareth’s
Sunday round for the best of the week.
Next week it’s the big one- 4 days of strokeplay for the Lewinski’s Open.
Best of luck to all!
The Beautiful Game?:
Riz Taylor
Premier League coming to Pattaya?
Like an England defender being carefully scrutinised by
the eagle eyes of Fabio Capello and a team of expert Italian coaches, I’m
not going to mess around with the opening this week. There’s no time for
anything clever; no Cruyff turns, no pirouettes or even any Ronaldo
step-overs here, I’m just hoofing it up there. That’s because there’s a
treasure trove of talking points this week, so let’s get started. Have it!
Straight to the big debate of the week, the announcement by The Premier
League of plans to hold an extra round of fixtures in assorted cities in an
“international round”. Cities across the globe will compete for the right to
hold Premier League matches, which means that the world’s favourite football
league could be on its way to Pattaya. The city could put plans for
lifesaving traffic lights on ice and throw money at English football.
Fantastic news, right? We’ve had Premier League sides out this way in recent
years to play in friendly tournaments, but this is the real thing. What
could be better that a real live Premiership game right here on your
doorstep, complete with proper pundits, terrible refereeing and perhaps even
plane-loads of corporate hospitality ‘fans’ just to make things realistic.
Welcome, bankers!
This is probably the biggest story to hit the Premier League or whatever
it’s called since its inception in 1992, before which time, as we all know,
football did not exist. In the quest to dig deeper into the vast, untapped
and bottomless pit of cash that the poor Premier League is missing out on
around the world, the clever suits have decided to throw caution to the wind
and have an additional round of matches – already dubbed “The 39th Game” –
in various cities across the world.
“How will it work?” I hear you cry. Well, under the plan five cities
would bid to stage two Premier League games each over a weekend in early
January, most likely to be the weekend following the FA Cup third round.
The fixtures would be decided by a draw at the start of the season, though
the biggest clubs are unlikely to be drawn against each other for some
reason or another, and the matches will be spread across the time zones so
that British viewers will be able to watch five back-to-back matches,
something we almost take for granted here in Thailand.
Naturally the games will also offer competing sides huge marketing
opportunities in the cities they are staged in, and with a clear week before
and after the games the clubs would have ample opportunity to promote their
“brand”, it says here.
Isn’t this great! Finally, and here’s the great news you’ve all been waiting
for, each club that is selected will gain a further 10% on their annual
income, meaning an extra 5 million pounds for each participant before any of
the marketing money comes rolling in.
There’s nothing that pleases me more than seeing rich clubs get even richer.
I expect you’re wondering about where the fans come in to all of this, but
frankly who gives a stuff about football fans anymore? They’re old news.
Next week we’ll take a look at the proposal in greater depth, even consider
the so-called negatives of this new scheme in response to ridiculous claims
that this exercise is purely about money, that the game is whoring itself
out to the highest bidder and that this is merely the beginning of the end
of the greedy Premier League bubble. I ask you, what do these people know
about football?
Respect to Citeh
Well done to the travelling Manchester City support who kept
schtum at the weekend during a minute’s silence for those that lost their
lives in the Munich disaster of 1958. After every major newspaper and radio
program in the northern hemisphere has discussed the issue at length for the
past month, the moment finally came and the silence was respected
impeccably.
Citeh fans showed class; a great deal more class than various commentators
in the media gave them credit for, and were rewarded with a deserved away
win at the home of their rivals. Good stuff all round, but shame on the
journalists for talking about little else in the weeks leading up the match.
Silence should be just that.
Fab lays it down
I try and steer clear of international football in this column
given Pattaya’s diverse farang visitors, but isn’t it great to see overpaid,
primadonna footballers being put in their place. I must admit I’m impressed
with the early days of new England manager Fabio Capello’s reign, and in
particular his stance on discipline so evidently missing under previous
managers. Squad members will no longer be called by nicknames such as
“Stevie G”, “Wazza” or “JT”, and instead by their surnames as Capello
prefers. Hallelujah!
“We are only here for three days, “Capello said, “and in three days you need
to try and work and create a way of working. To do that you need to set some
rules. Eating together and getting up from the table at the same time and
being punctual - these things are about respect for other people and for
each other. Three days is not a long time to create a group mentality. If
everybody leaves as soon as training finishes, it won’t be enough to get to
know each other. It’s important to spend time together. We need to work in
an orderly fashion. Because we work together not many days, compared to
working at the clubs, we need strict rules. If we follow those rules, we’ll
create a group and a specific winning mentality, which is what I want.”
It might not lead to a World Cup win, but the thought of England’s players
running their backsides off in training or hurriedly dressing to make
breakfast on time to impress the manager puts a smile on my face.
Jermaine genius
Compare Signor Capello with Tottenham’s Jermaine Jenas, who had
this pearl of wisdom for reporters after helping England to a 2-1 win over
the Swiss at Wembley last week:
“Erm I think, you know, I think it’s come out tonight as a positive result,
you know, I think, you know, it was some good moves put together as well,
you know, you know we don’t really want to dwell on, you know, what happened
back there, but then obviously, you know, you know, it was a bad result for
us and everyone’s disappointed about it, but, umm, you know, it’s a new
regime now, you know, we wanna move forward.”
Pharaohs rule
Egypt became African champions for a record sixth time after
taming the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in Ghana. Mohamed Aboutrika’s
76th-minute winner was the 99th goal of the tournament and was enough to
make Hasan Shehata only the second manager to win back-to-back titles.
Though hosts Ghana had been eliminated the Ohene Djan stadium was
nonetheless almost full to its 44,000 capacity to see the Egyptians rule
once more.
But Thailand don’t
“We are not used to the cold weather,” Charnwit Polcheewin said
last week. “It gives an advantage to the Japanese players.” He was right -
Japan routed Thailand 4-1 at the weekend in a blizzard in Saitama. Surely
this is unfair. Japan should have to come here and play in stinking hot
Thailand weather to even things up. Or perhaps during Songkran, where
players attempt to play the game whilst getting drenched in dirty water,
flour and other assorted substances by drunken holidaymakers.
Elsewhere in the Land of Smiles, a referee was beaten up by an entire team
after sending off three of their players during a second division promotion
decider. Referee Prakong Sukguamala needed 50 stitches and also broke a
finger after being attacked by the Kuiburi FC squad who were furious at
being shown three red cards during a 4-1 loss to Kasem Bundit, Thai Rath
newspaper reported.
The angry players charged into Prakong’s dressing room at the stadium in
Ayutthaya and began dishing out a thorough seeing to as only the Thais know
how, only dispersing when the boys in brown fired gunshots into the air. The
players then chased Prakong into the stadium’s office, where the hapless
official ran into a mirror, leaving him with cuts all over his body. The
unfortunate ref then locked himself in the room to escape the attackers, he
told Channel 3.
Onto the weekend, and it’s the FA Cup 4th round. You may fancy tuning into
Arsenal away at Manchester United late Saturday evening Pattaya time, but
really it’s up to you. I’ve been pretty handy in the tips department this
week and I’m going for United to dish out a 3-0 spanking. See you next week.
Carole takes the win
but it’s all tied for second
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Derek Brook
Tuesday February 5, Burapha - Stableford
The last time I played here it was about the longest day I can remember,
outside a monthly tournament, so how would today pan out.
 Tuesday’s
winner Carole Kubicki (rear center) with second placed Tom Herrington (left)
and Mashi Kenata (right) and a member of Bert’s staff.
The morning at Bert’s started out a little different with a few of the
players not arriving, however this is not totally unexpected in Pattaya and
a little reorganising soon sorted things out and we were on our way.
Quickly changed we were not upset to find we were playing the C & D Nines.
Once it was always hoped we played A & B, but these days the C & D Nines
have improved and are now a real test, much more difficult than the other 18
holes. So a real challenge and the view from the last few holes on the D
Nine are second to none anywhere - magnificent!
On this day the way ahead was clear and we got around in well under 4 hours,
in fact the whole group zipped around. The only complaint I have is that the
caddies do not rake the bunkers and a ball in the bunker means anything, and
is usually in a foot print. Still all got around well and what a smashing
day.
Back at Bert’s nice and early, we had time to catch our breath before the
presentation was done. This was good as I had met a situation I had not seen
in all the years I have been doing count backs. Two cards that matched in
every test I put them to. So we had joint seconds.
The result was that Carole Kubicki won with 39 points ahead of Tom
Herrington and Mashi Kenata in joint second, both with 38 points. In fourth
was Henry Cignac with 37 points on count back over Steve Hamstad in fifth.
Interesting day, and with thanks to Bert and Pu for looking after us, we
made good use of the extra time by reducing the number of beers in the bar.
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Jerry Kurtz, Kevin Dunne, Mashi Kenata, Derek Brook
Long Putt: Mashi Kenata, John Jacinto.
A pair of 40’s for Russell
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday February 4, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Rick Schramm 38pts
2nd Alan Howell 37pts
3rd Phil Groves 35pts
4th Roar Berger 35pts
5th Syd Harrison 35pts
Rick Schramm returned from South Africa well refreshed from his holidays and
it showed as he slipped round the B and C courses as if he had never been
away and took the day’s top spot by a shot from Alan Howell.
The top two were followed in by Phil Groves, who at last put in some
semblance of a decent round and took third by count back from Roar Berger,
who also had a good day off of the yellow tees. Syd Harrison just crept onto
the podium in fifth another shot behind on the back nine.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Alan Griffiths and Serge
Straeten had one each in the first division.
Before presenting the prizes, The Doc welcomed George Pittam, Barrie
Howarth, Pekka Harkki, Rabbe Jansson and Matti Kaariainen as new members and
also welcomed back Michael Herridge, Martin Grimoldby and Rick Schramm.
Wednesday February 6,Crystal Bay -Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Al Keith 40pts
2nd Russell Exley 40pts
3rd Rick Schramm 38pts
B Flight (15+)
1st B.J. Smith 38pts
2nd Alan Griffiths 37pts
3rd Vance Millar 36pts
Al Keith put in a sparkling round of 73 gross over the A and B courses and
topped it off with a 2-under gross on the back to secure the win and deny
Russell Exley by three in the count back. Rick Schramm went one worse than
the previous outing but that still got him onto the bottom tier of the first
division podium and ensured a full shot cut in handicap for the next week’s
activities.
B.J. Smith has been wallowing in the depths over the recent months but came
back to life and the winners’ circle with a steady round of two-under
handicap to edge out Alan Griffiths. The latter was surprised to find
himself in the second division, as he had thought that those days were far
behind him, but on the day the pace was a little easier in the lower
groupings which allowed Vance Millar to take third spot with a level
handicap par round.
Alan Howell, Alan Griffiths, Barrie Howarth and Tony Barritt all slotted a
‘2’ in the first division and Glyn Nicholas celebrated big style, after
getting the only one in the second division which included several roll
overs, by staying a little later before popping round to the shops.
Before presenting the prizes Michael Flynn and Yoshihiro Tokuyama were
welcomed as new members and Harry Vincenzi, Jan Andersen, Vibeke Poulsen and
Konrad Klama were welcomed back.
Friday February 8, The Emerald - Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Russell Exley 40pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer 40pts
3rd La Keith 37pts
B Flight (15+)
1st Geoff Picken 39pts
2nd Paul Davies 36pts
3rd George Pittam 36pts
Once again two divisions with the split at 14 and below and once more
Russell Exley was to be found at the head of the field with a four under
handicap 40-pointer. This time his count back of just one under was good
enough to take the top prize and it was Trevor Schirmer’s turn to be
disappointed with his back half after an excellent front nine. Outstanding
golf indeed by both players over what was on the day none too easy a course,
with Russell starting to look more like “The Rock” again.
La Keith was also under handicap as she secured third place three shots
back.
In the second division Geoff Picken followed up his previous week’s win,
with another of even better quality, which all augers well for a cut in
handicap in the near future. Paul Davies, known to his friends as Bubbles,
no doubt due to his personality and not his penchant during his leisure time
spent in flesh pots of the Big Mango, claimed second spot ahead of George
Pittam, who was grateful to the eagle eyed scorers for spotting an addition
error in his favour, that settled third place for him.
Syd Harrison got his ‘2’ in the second division a couple of days late but
was happy to be the only one to sweep the pool, whilst Trevor Schirmer,
Chris Davisson and Tatsu Noguchi shared the first division.
Back at The Haven, The Doc welcomed new member Kazu Asada who was part of
the Katakaka Tours Group some of the rest of the tour bus was also welcomed
back and they were Kaneo Watanabe and Tatsu Noguchi.
The Square Ring: by Howie Reed
“Sun Nin Fai Lok;” and welcome to the “Year of the Rat”
according to the Chinese calendar.
Boxing, like many events that occur in life is complicated mainly
because it looks so darn simple. To win, a boxer hits his opponent more
than he gets hit, knocks him out with the referee counting 10 or stops
the contest. Seems very simple. The problem is that in boxing, which
many think mirrors life, there is nothing simple.
Last week it was reported in these pages that, “There was a heck of a
battle at the Waterford Hotel in Cebu, Philippines. Vic Darchinyan
(29-1-1), making his second start since losing his flyweight titles to
Nonito Donaire, got a lot more than he wanted with Z Gorres (27-2-2).
Reading between the lines of the wire story, it appears that Darchinyan
got credit for a knockdown where Gorres simply lost his balance for a
10-8 round. Coins and bottles belted the ring when the referee ruled a
knockdown. The referee was named Lance so consider the source. It was a
‘controversial’ draw.”
As punters have want to say at the end of a Happy Hour session - “The
thought plickens.”
Both camps, Z Gorres and Darchinvan’s went ballistic in the days
following the fight. That’s usual behavior for “Gas Bag” Gary Shaw the
promoter for Vic Darchinvan, but when Z Gorres’s folks chimed in then
“maybe where’s there’s ladies there’s love.” Could happen.
Shaw getting upset is a little mysterious because if there had been no
“bogus” knockdown his fighter would have lost via a majority decision.
As it was Darchinyan escaped with a draw. Shaw has a track record of
protesting fights, especially when the sanctioning body is located in
his home area of New Jersey. The IBF (“I Be Fixin”) has been involved in
some dodgy actions over he years.
One legitimate question is why the IBF assigned New Zealand referee
Lance Revill to an important fight when he was little known outside the
land of furry fruits and nervous sheep? As for the “Gas Bag” Shaw’s
protest, file that under “usual stuff.”
“It’s a shame that a great promotion and a great night had to end with a
black mark,” said Shaw. “The referee [Lance Revill] had never done a
world title fight outside New Zealand and I think he felt the pressure
of the hostile environment in the first round and it affected the way he
officiated the next 11 rounds, missing two clear knockdowns. I think it
also affected the Thai judge [Montol Suriyachand] who scored the 10th
and 11th rounds (for Gorres) which were clearly Vic’s rounds on the
scorecards of the other officials, he was the dissenter. I don’t know
how the Australian judge [Cec Perkins] could see the fight even. I think
he may have been feeling the environment as well.”
Shaw is a whiner whose logic always breaks down under close scrutiny.
Little dodgy things appear to be going on again in Mexico, which should
be a shock to no one with even one “iota” of common sense. It’s no
secret in the boxing world that the WBC (sometime Weird Boxing Council)
for years protected, pampered, petted and took care of Julio Cesar
Chavez. Now it would seem that the WBC is doing the same for Julio Cesar
Chavez jr. whose record is 35-0 - which means that he hasn’t lost. There
is no quality attached to the 35-0 though, just lot’s of unknowns.
Last Sunday Chavez jr. would face Jose Celeya (31-3) who was clearly in
Mexico to build junior’s record - which he did by getting TKO’d in 8.
Flattop from the web site fightnews.com reported that the trainer of
Jose Celaya was full of fury about how Friday’s weigh-in was handled:
“It was a spectacle. They walked us up to a stage and Jose Sulaiman
(President of the WBC) said, ‘The stage is a bit shaky, so we are going
to allow 300 grams (almost 10 ounces) over the limit (154-pounds).’ I
said ‘No!’ to Sulaiman but we were told to step on the scale before I
could say anything more. They put the marker on the 154-pound mark and
it (the beam) started to dip down and they said, ‘Alright, you can get
down,’ but I wanted to know exactly what my fighter weighed but they
made him get off. It was going too fast.”
According to the report, when junior got on the scale the Celaya camp
wasn’t allowed to check the weight. A “perimeter of people” surrounded
the scale and were pushing and shoving, which blocked the view.
This Sunday from Las Vegas, the rematch between Kelly Pavlik (32-0) and
Jermain Taylor (27-1-1) will take place. It is usual to write, “wildly
anticipated” just because that’s what’s done. In this case it’s a fact
that many sports fans are waiting for this one.
Lot’s of plots and sub plots here that bring more than the usual
interest.
Pavlik is white and Taylor isn’t. Mayweather-Hatton was the last and
that worked. Two different ethnic backgrounds in Las Vegas with neither
of them being Latin. Promoter Bob Arum once said, “I won’t put a fight
on in Las Vegas without a Mexican fighter.” That statement might explain
why Las Vegas, once the fight capital of the world, is now second rate -
but that’s an argument for another time.
The first Pavlik-Taylor fight was a humdinger with Taylor ahead on all
three cards (58-55, 58-55, 59-54) when he got KO’d at 2:14 of the 7th
round. Following the fight Taylor fired his trainer Manny Stewart,
electing to return to the amateur trainer of his youth Ozel Smith. It’s
a move that has the Pavlik camp licking their collective chops.
“The rap on Taylor was that he brought all his bad habits from his
amateur days,” commented Pavlik’s trainer Jack Loew. “He gets amateurish
in the fights. Ozell Nelson is the one that taught him all that, so I
just want to thank Jermain for bringing back the guy who taught him all
the bad habits!”
In truth Taylor hasn’t looked good since his two fights against Bernard
Hopkins which he won. There appeared to be a lack of aggressiveness that
Taylor showed on his way up the fistic ladder. Against Cory Spinks,
leading up to the Pavlik encounter, Taylor looked lousy in winning a
split decision.
When a leading boxer loses a fight, especially when ahead, it’s always
easy to blame someone other than oneself - and that’s what Taylor did
against Pavlik first time around. But it wasn’t Manny Stewart that
couldn’t put Palvik away when he was ready to go early, and it wasn’t
Manny Stewart that got KO’d. It was Taylor.
Former trainer and now TV guy Teddy Atlas preaches, “When a boxer hasn’t
lost it’s always interesting to see how he reacts to the first loss. He
can either accept it, learn and move on or dwell on the loss and look
for excuses.”
Like the addict, the easiest excuse is denial - “Someone else did
something wrong!”
That has been Taylor’s approached to this rematch. Taylor wanted the
fight at a ‘catch weight” of 166 rather than 160lbs. No problemo. “I
have a lot of energy and I really think that [the extra six pounds] are
going to benefit me,” said Pavlik. “The snap on my punch and the bounce
in my legs, everything will be there.”
Taylor wanted a new trainer and got it. The real problem is that Jermain
Taylor is still Jermain Taylor. In looking at this fight, little has
been written about Kelly Pavlik for the simple reason that inside the
ring he’s been perfect. He’s taken the steps to the top and is enjoying
his stay in the Penthouse.
Pavlik’s problems have come outside the ring and are well documented.
This bout may be on PPV and therefore not showing live in Thailand. If
so don’t panic. Bet a nice cold one, that would be a beer or Teelock of
one’s choice, that the replay will be included in the HBO telecast of
Wladimir Klitschko (49-3) against Sultan Ibragimov (22-0) the following
week.
The winner? There is no way in God’s Green Earth that Palvik will lose
to Jermain Taylor on Sunday. Word of caution here, in the last couple of
weeks the same thing was written and was dead flat wrong.
Darnell “Ding-a-Ling Man” Wilson had 19 KO’s from 22 wins. He was
defending his USBA Cruiserweight title against light-hitting B.J. Flores
(21-0). Fans love to watch Wilson cause he tosses punches with power.
But he lost to Flores who executed a brilliant game plan devised by
trainer Kenny Adams. Flores threw single punches and ran.
When last seen, 6’2’ welterweight Paul Williams was playing the underdog
role against Antonio Margarito in July. He won that fight and the WBO
welter title. He needed a money fight so was a big 8-1 favorite to beat
Carlo Quintata who got destroyed by Miguel Cotto.
HBO was building up Williams as the “next great welter.” Whoops!
Quintata laid a whipping on Williams, opening cuts over both eyes, out
punching the awkward Williams and dominating the fight. The Square Ring
had the fight 116-112 as did two judges with the other seeing it
115-112.
Oh yes, the words “God’s Green Earth” were written just prior to Super
Bowl XLII when the New England Patriots went from the penthouse to the
outhouse in just 60 minutes.
And now right on time here’s Jeeves.
“Your Lordship, you should mention that a couple of local lads didn’t
fare too well in their travels recently. The Australian
super-middleweight champion Les Sherrington (18-4, 11 KO’s) scored a
second round knockout over Somchai Chimlum (0-6). Somchai has fought 6
times in Aussie and has yet to win. He might think about either another
career or returning to LOS. In Japan, prospect Kenji Ohba (11-1) barely
broke into a sweat when he KO’d Phetchbhuphan Sishpraka-ifah (10-7) in
2.
“Your Lordship I also have a question. I watched the Williams-Quintata
fight and had Quintata winning but the HBO expert ring judge Mr.
Ledermann had Williams ahead and winning by three points. Did I miss
something?”
No Jeeves, you have discovered what many in boxing have known for years.
Harold Lederman couldn’t judge a one-lady beauty pageant. Now if you
would be so kind as to attend to the lager, cigars and music.
“But where’s your new friend Emm, your Lordship?”
I’m afraid the money ran out Jeeves.
Rod takes double win in B Flight
PSC golf from The Bunker
Monday February 4, Treasure Hill -
Stableford
Playing stableford at Treasure Hill on Monday, Canadian
Rod Stevens made a successful return to Thailand by winning the B
Flight with 35 points. Second place went to Jack Robertson 32 points
and John Hughes was an embarrassed third with 29 points.
Tony Robins took the money in the A Flight winning with 37 points
with Tony Scambler (who else) second with 35 points and Paul Smith
playing off handicap 3 beating Alan Freeman playing off scratch into
third place on a count back, both scoring 33 points.
Alan and Paul both won a near pin prize along with Tony Scambler and
Alan Freeman.
Friday February 8, Crystal Bay - Stableford
After Wednesday’s Matchplay league game it was back to
normal on Friday with a stableford competition at Crystal Bay.
Rod Stevens continued his winning ways taking first prize in the B
Flight with 40 points, Alan Sullivan was second with 38 points after
pushing John Hughes into third place on a count back.
The A Flight was a tight affair with four players all scoring 39
points and on a count back William Macey came out on top, Paul Smith
came second and Cyril Wallwork took third place with the unlucky Jim
Treen being left empty handed.
Near pin prizes went to Rod Stevens, Tony Scambler, Mashi Kaneta and
John Graham.
The North Face River Kwai Trophy 2008
4-8 hours of running, mountain biking, swimming, kayaking and more…
The North Face, The Tourism Authority Of Thailand and Active Management
Asia Co., Ltd., are pleased to announce that the next River Kwai Trophy
will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2008. This three to eight hours
wilderness adventure race, will take teams of two through a 40 to 50km
unmarked course of running, mountain biking, swimming and paddling.
 The
River Kwai Trophy adventure race takes teams of two on a 40 to 50km trek
through the beautiful scenery of Kanchanaburi Province.
“The course is very exciting as the route travels along scenic trails
exploring the mountains, farmlands of western Thailand and the
magnificence of the Kwai valley,” says Serge Henkens, Amazing Thailand
Adventure Race Series Manager.
“The perfect recipe for a great race can be found there,” he continues.
“The River Kwai of course but also thick jungle, steep mountains, lakes,
caves and picturesque trails. The course is very scenic and
challenging.”
 Competitors
will face a multitude of challenges on the course.
The last few years has seen adventure racing grow in popularity, with
more and more people looking to get into the sport. This is the third
edition of the race and it is becoming increasingly popular with both
local and foreign racing enthusiasts.
“We had 46 teams for the first edition in 2006, 80 teams in 2007 and we
expect 100 teams this year” says Henkens.
“Anyone can do it as we propose 2 different divisions. Adventure level
is accessible to anyone with a minimum of fitness really. But beware,
Adventure Racing is the most addictive sport you will ever try, and once
you get sucked in, there’s no going back,” he adds.
The race will involve disciplines such as Mountain biking, running,
swimming, kayaking and more and the two categories will be split as
follows:
Adventure: For the weekend warriors - Not too hard, require a minimum of
physical condition. A good intro to the world of Adventure Racing – 3 to
5 hours to complete
Extreme: For confirmed athletes, experienced racers or very fit people.
Serious training is required- 4 to 8 hours to complete
The race is open to anyone 16 years of age or older and each team must
consist of two athletes.
For more details please take a look at the website
www.riverkwaitrophy.com or www.active-asia.com or call the Race Director
on 081 922 7100
Fleet sets course for Koh Sri Chang
This photo shows the
biggest and smallest boats racing
to Koh Sri Chang in 2006.
Kipsan Beck
More than 100 sailors will descend on historical Koh Sri Chang
this weekend as the second event of the Gulf Charters Series, part of
the Raimon Land 2008 yacht racing championship continues. Race one
starts from Ocean Marina on Saturday morning at 10:30am, finishing just
off Koh Sri Chang, a course of about 25-30 nautical miles which should
take the participating yachts between 4 to 6 hours to compete.
In the evening Gulf Charters will host a dinner party for the sailors
then the following morning, all sailors will set sail back to Ocean
Marina for race two.
So far, the Gulf Charters Series, running from January to April, is
heating up. After the first races in January, the racing class is led by
the yacht “Breakaway” skippered by Pascal Leray, with David Bell
in “Magic Roundabout” in close second. David Bell made several
technical changes to his yacht to enhance speed, which will be of
concern to Pascal Leray. “Le Vent” owned and helmed by Pote
Suyasinto will seek to interfere with the two leaders in this weekend’s
racing.
In the Multihull class, David Wales’ “The Sting” has a perfect
record so far competing unopposed, but the introduction of several brand
new Corsair trimarans built in Vietnam will completely open up this
class. “Voodoo Doll” (Olaf Reese) and “Blade Runner” (Bob
Garner) are expected to put up a strong challenge, however it is Radab
Kanjanavanit’s “Cedar Swan”, a multiple winner of the Phuket
King’s Cup, that will be the boat to beat.
In the Platu and Sports Boat Classes Australian Scott Duncanson and “The
Lofts Southshore” Raimon Land team hold a slight advantage over Ray
Waldren in “The Beaver” with “Lee Marine Express” skippered by
Marco Belonje not far behind. “Pornstar”, the smallest monohull
will aim to capitalize on reaching conditions against the Platu
sportboats.
A number of cruising boats will also join the event, taking advantage of
the pleasant sailing and good anchorages offered at Koh Sri Chang. Phil
Harper of Gulf Charters Thailand is not only the organizer and sponsor
of this event but will also act as race officer.
OMYC sailing, the organizers of keelboat racing in the Gulf of Thailand,
is the sailing arm of Ocean Marina Yacht Club. Every Wednesday evening
from 17:30 onwards a networking Barbeque is held at Ocean Marina at km
157 of Sukhumvit Road at Baan Amphur. To learn more about sailing at
Ocean Marina visit www.OMYCsailing.com
Tony and Trevor tame the Emerald
PSC golf from the Beaver Bar & Grill
Friday’s winners gather at
the Beaver Bar.
Trevor Carnahoff
Friday February 8, The Emerald
The regular Beaver Bar golf outing in Banchang is proving to
be ever more popular with 40 players turning out last Friday. The course
has benefitted from recent rains and it continues to test the majority
of the players. Starter Dennis Willett sent us out under cloudless skies
with the sun beating down and by the second hole those of us who had
overindulged the night before were already feeling the effects.
This did not slow down Tony Oakes (Hcp 10) however who barged out of the
gate with birdie-birdie- par-eagle and shot 75 off the stick to score 43
points and take out first prize in A flight. Doug Campbell (Hcp 18) was
not far off, scoring 41 points to win second prize followed by Dennis
Willett (Hcp 11) with 38 points and Dave Richards (Hcp 6) with 36 points
to win third and fourth prizes respectively.
B flight winner (yours truly) Trevor Carnahoff (Hcp 23) finally sorted
out his new set of Taylor Made irons, scoring gross 42 on the back nine
to register 42 points. Newcomer Khun Pim (Hcp 21) leapt quickly into the
winners’ circle scoring 40 points to take out second prize followed by
Keith Whittle (Hcp 26) with 38 points and Bob Lawrence (Hcp 32) with 35
points to take out third and fourth prizes respectively.
Near pins were awarded to Paul Taylor and Tom Vail.
Back at the Beaver Bar a large and thirsty crowd of golfers was regaled
by tournament organizer Dennis Willett making the necessary
announcements and awarding prizes while brother Larry kept his staff
hopping to serve food and drink to an appreciative gathering.
Beaver Bar & Grill hosts golf at Emerald every Friday between 7:30 and
8:45 and now at the Emerald or Green Valley on Tuesdays. Sign in at the
Emerald for Friday golf and check venues and tee times at the Beaver Bar
for Tuesday golf.
Bruce hits an ‘Ace’
at Green Valley
PSC golf from The Caddyshack
Monday, February 4, Pattaya C.C. –
Stableford
A visit to Pattaya Country Club for a stableford competition once again
drew a full house of golfers, so we split the field into two divisions.
 Koy
from The Caddyshack (right) presents a trophy to hole-in-one star Bruce
Tollitt.
In the B Flight, Joey Clines scored a mediocre 33 points to take second
place, a full seven behind the best stableford score on the day, the 40
points recorded by Geoff Hart who deservedly took first place.
The A Flight was more of a close run battle with Brenden McGovern
scoring 35 points for second place and just ahead by a single point was
Jeff North with 36 points to take the top prize.
Vincent Smyth got the right measurement on one par-3 and managed a
birdie ‘2’ to be the only golfer on the day to achieve this feat and
thus pot the loot.
Wednesday, February 6, Green Valley - Stableford
This was a day that Bruce Tollitt will never forget as he got
a hole-in-one on the difficult 16th hole at Green Valley. Bruce has
waited 70 years for this great achievement and the story is that his
regular caddy for at least 8 years produced for him his 6-rescue wood,
but Bruce was not happy with this and told her to change it. She
insisted that she was right and for the first time in 8 years he stuck
with her decision. Lo and behold Bruce hit the perfect shot and the ball
went into the hole. As from now Bruce is going to listen to his caddy a
little more often.
It was all good news for the Caddyshack as on this day we were also
playing our Inter-Bar Match play league game against the Bunker. In a
very close match the Caddyshack came out the eventual winners 5½ to 4½
which puts us on top of the league.
The other regular Stableford competition on the day saw Bill Pirie score
32 points for third place in the B Flight, Terry Nixon on 33 points in
second, and the winner, just one point better, was Keith Johnson with 34
points.
The top division had Dave Hester in third with 34 points, Peter Wilson,
also scoring 34 points but with the better count back in second, and way
ahead of the field was the Irish raider Emmett White with a very nice
round of 39 points.
There were a few birdie 2’s scored but as Bruce Tollitt got his
hole-in-one he took the pot - which eased the blow on his bar bill.
Friday, February 8, Eastern Star – Stableford
Today was a visit to Eastern Star and although the course has
improved here, it is still not at its best. To be fair to the green
keepers though, the tourist invasion of the courses at the moment must
be making it difficult to keep everything perfect.
Division two saw Jim Boyd score 32 points for third place with Derek
Wesley on 33 points in second whilst the winner, a couple of points
better, was Ben Findon with 35 points.
The premier division saw Keith Jansen score 31 points for third place,
Brenden McGovern take second with 33 points, and the winner with 35
points was Vincent Smyth.
Brenden McGovern was the only golfer to hit a birdie ‘2’ so he took the
prize all on his own.
Kodaka rides out the storm
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral
Sunday, February 3, the Pattaya Golf Society visited
Plutaluang to play a stableford event over the North and West nines on a
very stormy day. The weather was destined to play an important role in
the day’s proceedings as the golfers got underway.
The course was also full and the sight of a five-ball up ahead with five
golf carts did nothing to appease those in the group who were unable to
get one.
The regular single flight found the going tough but for Andre Fortis it
was little more than a Sunday stroll as he lodged 34 points with the
recorder for third place to find that he was sharing the place with
Richard Bannister.
One of Plutaluang’s regular players, Jean Morel, used his knowledge of
the course to post a score of 37 points, yet again beating par here, but
it wasn’t quite enough as Shuichi Kodaka went one better with an
excellent 38 for a deserved victory.
Shuichi also had a share of the 2’s pot with a birdie on W3, the other
winners being John Mason for a long chip-in on W8 and Don Nellis for a
conventional birdie on the Lighthouse hole, N3.
The weather had spoilt the day for a few but poor Keith Rhodes fared
worse than the rest as he damaged tendons in his elbow on the first hole
and had to sit the rest of the day out. For him there was nothing but
the consolation of the Booby Bevy. Hopefully he will make a swift
recovery to join us again on the golf course.
Rich returns for Johnson & Watkins
The Pattaya Golf Society’s monthly team event took the shape
of a pairs scramble at The Emerald on Tuesday, February 5, and twenty
teams took part in a very successful competition. Scores were extremely
good and the return of old friends made the day very enjoyable.
In third place came the surprise new members Mike and Yvonne Earley and
their 61.4 points turned heads at the presentation as it was their first
competition in the Kingdom. Second place belonged to the inveterate duo
of Roy Thornton and Jeremy Masse who could not have played better in
recording net 60.8, which included a back nine of 32 gross. The winners
were Jeff Johnson and Doug Watkins, freshly returned from the USA, and
their score of 58.2 defied jetlag and the humid conditions.
There were seven birdie 2’s on the cards also and the lucky pairs took a
share of the large pot.
The Booby Bevy was reserved for the laggers of the day, Chris Voller and
Rob Dolan whilst Paul Quodomine, currently injured out of the game,
turned up at the OK Corral later just to celebrate the Superbowl victory
of his favourites, the New York Giants, and duly rang the bell for the
huge gathering. Cheers Paul, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Big Bill makes
his mark
Thursday, February 7, three-dozen golfers represented the
Pattaya Golf Society out of the OK Corral in Soi Rungland at the
ever-attractive course at Bangpra for a stableford Order of Merit event
on a hot and humid day.
The greens were back to their racing best and despite the ongoing
construction work the course is still an eagerly awaited monthly
fixture.
Sharing fourth place were Stuart Thompson, Vic Barton and Pierre Bietry,
all on 33 points whilst Andre Fortis maintained his current good form
with a fine 34 points for third. Only one over par was Emiel van der
Wiele and his 35 points continued a fine record this year. The day’s
winner was Big Bill Pickersgill and this former rugby league player
brutalised the course with some savage hitting to record his short
career best score of 38 points and give the handicapper some more work
to do this weekend.
Three of the four birdie 2’s came from the same playing group, the
accurate putters being Stuart Thompson, David Thomas and Carl Lovatt and
the fourth share of the pot went to Don Nellis.
The Booby Bevy went to current PGS “Player of the Month”, Andy
Parkinson, for his failure to emulate the others in his group with a
birdie. It also helped to celebrate the granting of a UK visa to his new
wife and was a fine way to end an excellent golfing week at the OK
Corral. Full details, news, scores and schedules can be found at
Pattaya’s best golfing website, www.thebunkerboys.com
Oun hands out a whitewash to land Megabreak trophy
The Megabreak 9-Ball Handicap Grand Final
There was a full crowd at Megabreak for the final, which was played out
last week. Most of the players were in fine form ordering more beer to
cool the nerves.
 Oun
was the winner of the Megabreak Grand Final
After several hours of play Oun found himself in the Winner’s final
having beaten Mike U.S, Micky, Olly and Ian Shoot pool on the way. Now
he was one win away from the prize and the Megabreak Trophy. Ian Shoot
pool was now in losers half of the tournament, where he met Chris in the
Loser’s Final.
Chris (handicap A) had to win 6 racks. Ian (Handicap C) had to win 3
racks. Ian played some good pool to win his match including a 9-ball off
the break. Now he faced Oun again this time he had to win twice.
Oun had waited over an hour to play and both players started slowly. Ian
had the first chance in the first rack but the Heineken had kicked in.
Oun won the match 7-0 and played some consistent pool all day, so well
done to both finalists.
A big ‘thank you’ to all the players in this seasons 16-week
competition. Sunday February 3 saw the top seeded 16 players from the
previous 16 weeks’ competitions.
The following players qualified: Preecha, Mark (Bentleys), Albert
(Bentleys), Chaz, Mike U.S, Tommy, Oun, Robbo, Micky, Baz, Shirley, Ian
(Shoot Pool), Alan (Bentleys), Ian (Local), Stevie, Bob U.S
Unfortunately Tommy, Alan and Bob were unable to make the final due to
other commitments, replacing them was Olly, Chris and John U.S as these
players were the next highest ranked players.
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