Weight in vain for former arm- restling champ Suparuek

Vimolrat Singnikorn
A four-time junior-weight arm wrestling champion who deliberately put on the pounds to elevate himself to the medium-weight category lost in his bid for the top spot during the International Arm Wrestling Championship on March 22, despite achieving a good score.

Ronnachai Jitjamnong (right) was able to use his greater strength to defeat the 4-time junior champion Supareuk Somprasird (left), who changed up this year to compete in the medium weight category.
Suparuek Somprasert failed in his bid to become medium-weight arm wrestling champion, losing against Ronnachai Jitjamnong with a final score of 2-3. Ronnachai was named overall medium-weight champion.
The 5th Annual International Arm Wrestling Championship was organized by Royal Garden Plaza in cooperation with the Born 2B Organizer Co Ltd, and was opened by Chanyuth Hengtrakul, former member of parliament for Chonburi Province Zone 7.

The effort required was all too much for some.
More than 50 bouts took place, with the competition divided into three categories: junior weight under 75 kilograms, medium weight from 75 kilograms to 95 kilograms, and heavyweight for competitors weighing more than 95 kilograms.
Spectators cheered on four-times junior-weight champion Supareuk Somprasert who had bulked up this year so that he could compete in the medium-weight category. Matched against Ronnachai Jitjamnong in the final, Suparuek lost the first round, evened the score at 1-1 in the next bout, but ultimately lost by the score of 2-3.
Having relinquished his long-held grip on the junior category, Supareuk saw the former second-placer in the junior weight, Porn-Anan Jounjang, romp home to an easy victory in that category. The heavyweight championship went to Wittaya Meemui.
All three champions won a prize of 15,000 baht plus trophies, while the three runners-up took home 5,000 baht each.

Graham edges it by one at tough Mountain Shadow

PSC golf from the Bunker Bar

Monday, March 24, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Monday, and The Bunker Boy’s played a stableford match at the lovely Mountain Shadow Golf Course with the cut being set at handicap 15.
We had some pretty impressive scores, particularly in the A Flight where only two points separated the first three players: John Graham coming out on top with 39 points, Gerry Cooney second with 38 points and William Macey third one further point back.
Jim Payne won the B Flight on a count back with 30 points ahead of old campaigner Fred Griffin, also on 30 points. Joel Flor took third place with a very modest 26 points.
Joel also won one of the near pins along with Paul Smith, Gerry Cooney and Roger Privett.
Wednesday, March 26, Phoenix - Matchplay
(Angkana House v The Bunker)
Phoenix was, as usual, in good condition and, compared to recent months, had very few golfers on the course. Isn’t it wonderful to have the courses around Pattaya to ourselves once again.
Following our remarkable win last week, The Bunker Boys were full of confidence for our last match before the April break. Gerry Cooney followed his win last week with another solid performance. Being 2 holes down with 4 to play Gerry came back to win the last 4 holes to win on the last.
Jack Robertson bounced back from defeat last week with a win this time, but again only on the last hole. Angkana’s Bob Rasmussen had one of those days that we all have from time to time and lost 6 & 5 to William Macey, but Bob is a resilient golfer and will return shortly. I just hope I am not on the receiving end.
John Graham was 3 up with 4 to play but Ken McCarthy came back and needed to sink a 4 foot putt on the 17th to be all square going down the last, but for the first time on the day Ken missed the putt and unfortunately lost the last as well.
Paul Smith halved a tough game against the scratch Marty Allred and Allan Sullivan had a tight match, again winning on the last hole over David Wood.
John MacDonald returned from Australia and ended up in Udon Thani. John does get lost sometimes and was still in a tizz at the golf course and was our only defeat of the day to Captain Clive Robinson.
Gordon Melia, for reasons better known to himself, decided to return to the snows of Bury from the comforts of Thailand the day after our match and was obviously in a hurry for he won his match with 6 holes to play. Mashi, likewise, was in no mood to hang around, winning with 5 holes to play and Geoff Parker won by 2 holes against Rob Gandley.
On our return to Angkana House we were presented with a table full of sandwiches and chips, or were they French fries supplied by Bob? The chips kept coming for most of the evening, he must have purchased Foodland’s entire stock, so our thanks to Bob ‘the base’ as he is known by his friends but from this day on will be known affectionately by the Bunker Boys as ‘chippy’ Bob for his generous contribution to a very pleasant evening and to Captain Clive for a warm welcome extended to all those from The Bunker. (A full list of the matchplay scores is on page 57).
Friday, March 28, Eastern Star - Stableford
Friday we played stableford again, this time at Eastern Star, and Eddie Martin beat the field with 35 points to take first place. John McDonald edged Joel Flor on a count back for second, both finishing with 33 points. Near pin prizes were shared by David Harvey, John King, Jack Robertson and Joel Flor.

City less than stellar in hard fought win over Cosmos

MBMG International League 2007-08

Paul Frain
Last Saturday, Pattaya City F.C. took on second place Cosmos, their nearest challengers at the top of the MBMG International League.
Pattaya went into the game without their reliable captain Daryl Mann but they were the first to mount a serious attack when Craig Banks crossed the ball nicely for Alastair Paterson, but his header was weak and the Cosmos keeper was able to save easily.
Good work by City’s midfield and a six-man move almost led to a goal but Mark Britten spurned the golden opportunity with the goal at his mercy. City kept on pressing but too many final passes went astray and the Cosmos team began to slowly grind down Pattaya’s midfield supremacy.
Just when it looked as if the game could be turning on its head, an excellent run by City’s Danny Stevens saw him put a great pass through the center of the Cosmos defence into the path of Jake Baker, whose lob over the goalkeeper was superb and opened the scoring for Pattaya. It was the break City were hoping for and just before half time they managed to double the lead when a wonderful cross by Stevens was headed home by Carl Old for a half time score of 2-0.
At the start of the second half Cosmos came out strong and within six minutes they had pulled a goal back when their right winger beat three City defenders and crossed the ball for the centre forward to head past Pattaya’s keeper.
With the score now being 2-1 it gave Cosmos new confidence and a shot by their number seven just shaved the City crossbar.
The shock of conceding a goal, and so nearly another, shook City’s players onto the offensive and they started to attack the Cosmos goal with more vigour. Paul Derbyshire broke through the middle and was brought down leading to a penalty for City. Mark Brittain stepped up to take it but his shot lacked power and direction and the keeper saved with his legs. Cosmos quickly replied with two rasping shots of their own but found City’s keeper Anuruk Ananthakul on top form with two great saves.
Pattaya were finally able to restore the two goal cushion with a great strike from Lee Homer that arrowed into the top corner of the Cosmos goal to make it 3-1.
Cosmos refused to bow down however and City needed two more great saves from Anuruk to stop the Cosmos forwards from scoring. There was great relief by the City players when the final whistle went and the realization that another huge step had been taken in their relentless pursuit of a first league championship.

Rainstorm fails to slow Phoenix golfers

Monday Golf at Phoenix Golf Club

Mike Gerrard
Monday, March 24, Phoenix Mountains & Lakes - Stableford
Ah rain at last. Sadly just before our first tee time, and what a downpour, but most definitely needed. How it freshened the ground up almost instantly. Due to the severity of the downpour, we decided to apply the “Lift, Clean and Place” rule (on fairways only please note). However, after about 30 minutes it was plainly clear this was not necessary. The way the Phoenix golf course drains must be one of the best in the area.
After about an hour of waiting for the rain to stop the sky cleared and then it was a mad scramble to get to the tee first. Not too bad, the course was reasonably quiet. Maybe some did not wait for the rain to stop.
So we set off on the Mountain and Lakes course at 1 p.m. As I said before, this is now millionaire’s golf. Not one hold-up all the way around. I am not one for advocating fast rounds of golf (especially in climatic conditions such as this country has to offer), but our round was completed in a little under three and a half hours.
Round over we set off to our new après golf meeting place, Toy’s Music Bar on Soi Chaiyapreuk to be greeted by the friendly staff and be treated to the nostalgia of 50’s and 60’s music, which all led to a very swinging prize presentation.
The winner today was myself (Mike Gerarrd) with 36 points, beating Wayne Farrell into second place on count back, with Bob Lindborg on 34 points claiming third place.
Technical prizes went to Lennie Bantleman and Doug Campbell. With two of the technical prizes not being won we put the money into the lucky draw and the winners of the lucky draw were Terry Vicary, Paul Taylor and James Gillis.
Due to the low season coming along we have decided to switch out Monday and Thursday golf to Tuesdays only. Tee times will be from 12.00 noon with meeting and registration in the restaurant at Phoenix by 11.15 am and presentation after at Toy’s Music Bar. Sign up by calling myself (Mike Gerarrd) on 08 709 17565 no later than 24 hours before the game day.

Alan Pearce on the Podium (at last), with Les Charles & Sririporn

Mike Franklin
There was a nice field for the Diana Group Seniors & Ladies Open at Pattaya Country Club on Thursday March 27. Thirty-six teed off in pleasant weather with just a sprinkle of rain at one point.

(L-R) Les Charles, Sririporn and Alan Pearce collect their trophies as winners at the March Diana Group Seniors & Ladies Open.

Alan Pearce, just three months away from promotion to the Super Seniors division, at last made the podium flanked by newcomer Les Charles and Sririporn winning the Super Seniors and Ladies respectively. Alan had 42 stableford points; the best Seniors score of the day, with Tira Charuvastra a close runner-up with 40 points.
There was a count-back for the Super Seniors runner-up between Danny Dyke and Pim Wylacker, both with 34 points but Danny took it with 21 points on the back nine.
Prakong Robinson, 32 points, was runner-up to Sririporn’s winning score of 33.
Near pins were claimed by Les Charles, Terry Phur, Les Winch and Tira Charuvastra and the long putts were sunk by Arthur Bailey and Geoff Bowers.
Newcomers Les Charles, Ivan Plunkett, Tony Duthrie, Ken Furay. Olaf Hoges and Kurt Milleson and it was welcome back to Geoff Bowers and John Clements.
The April Diana Seniors & Ladies Open is on Thursday April 24 so sign up for that at the Green Bottle or Diana Driving Range

Regents School hosts 1st FOBISSEA Senior Games

Saturday and Sunday, March 15-16, some 200 students from seven FOBISSEA (Federation Of British International Schools South East Asia) international schools, traveling from as far a-field as Vietnam, gathered at the Regents School for the first Senior Games.

The Senior Boys take part in the basketball competition.
The tournament involved students of a senior age (Under 19 age group) competing in both basketball and football competitions over a two-day period. Some schools fielded several teams which meant students had a large number of games to play therefore providing excellent competition.
The competitions were very closely fought resulting in many interesting and exciting games. The spirit of the students at the tournament was admirable. Students competed fairly during the day and mixed on a social level during the evening.
The tournament is trying to fill the gap left by the termination of the previous FOBISSEA games several years ago. At present only a few single sport competitions are organized for this age group and students train throughout the year with little to focus on. There was a great response from the visiting schools.
The Regents School plans to host the same competition next year in the hope that it will grow into an annual event hosted by various schools in the FOBISSEA organization.

The games were played in a competitive but truly friendly spirit.

1st FOBISSEA Senior Games Results Pos.      Boys Basketball     Boys Football          Girls Basketball   Girls Football 1st        Regents ‘A’            Regents Bangkok     Regents ‘A’         GIS 2nd       GIS                       Regents Pattaya ‘C’  GIS ‘A’                St Johns 3rd       Bromsgrove             Regents ‘A’              Regents ‘B’         Regents ‘A’

Cap’n shoots gross 74 – still comes second

PSC Golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, March 24, Burapha - Stableford

Aren’t computers wonderful things? ... until they go wrong, ask British Airways. Having computerised the scoring everything went well on the day, sorting out the winners and count backs for four divisions. The only problem now is the computer has crashed and I apologise if any of the count backs are reported back to front and I can’t tell you who had any 2’s, but congratulations if you did!
Fifty-eight Outbackers took to the blue tees of the C & D courses and produced another day of brilliant scoring. Roger Ison topped the day with a superb 39pts and welcome back to Travis who came in just one behind on 38. It was goodbye to Scott Dobbins & Richard Line, who are returning to the UK this week, both of whom have played consistently well during their three month stay in Thailand.
A special welcome also to Dave McFeely, his first time with the Outbackers, and won Division B with an excellent 37 points.
Neil Hughes, our current ladder leader also scored well as did Dennis Persson who is chasing him for the March title.
Overall
1st Roger Ison (10) 39pts
2nd Travis Mitchell (19) 38pts
3rd Anton Rowbottom(14) 37pts
Div A (0-10)
1st Scott Dobbins (0) 35pts
2nd Mark Joshua (7) 32pts
3rd Richard Line (8) 32pts
4th Frank Frawley (8) 31pts
Div B (11-17)
1st Dave McFeely (17) 37pts
2nd Steve Mann (13) 37pts
3rd Neil Hughes (15) 36pts
4th David Evans (15) 34pts
Div C (18+)
1st Geoff Doody (22) 37pts
2nd Dennis Persson (18) 35pts
3rd Brian Maddox (18) 35 pts
4th John Cogan (22) 24pts
2’s: Bob Philp, Don Frances, George Gardner, Richard Line, Bodie Brown & Steve Plant.
Wednesday, March 26, Banpakong
(Bus Trip) - Stableford
Overall
1st Stephen Mann (13) 41pts
2nd Capt’ Bob (7) 41pts
3rd Chris Walsh (25) 38pts
Div A (0–14)
1st Bob Wighton (9) 37pts
2nd Dave Arrowsmith (4) 34pts
3rd Rod Woodriffe (12) 33pts
4th Frank Frawley (8) 33pts
Div B (15-18)
1st Dennis Persson (18) 37pts
2nd Neil Hughes (15) 37pts
J3rd Keith Hector (16) 34pts
J3rd Alan Duckett (18) 34pts
Div C (19+)
1st Orowon Sodok (28) 37pts
2nd Paul Quodomine (25) 37pts
3rd Geoff Moodie (24) 36pts
4th Margaret Wilkinson (24) 34pts
Just about an hour away from the Outback Golf Bar is this fabulously presented resort style golf course. The bus was full, and the Outbackers were expectant of a good round of golf.
Many of them were not disappointed, not least Capt’ Bob who fired a gross 74. Stephen Mann won the day on countback from Bob both with 41pts and Bob Wighton (perhaps better known as Bob 2) surprised the field with a fine 37pts after a couple of months away from the game.
Young Rod (the pumpkin) Woodriffe also did well as he squeezed only his second game in during his brief visit to Thailand. Well actually he had such a good last night, he missed his flight, it only cost him 38K for another ticket… expensive night out!
Division B had to be separated on countback for first and second as the two main March ladder contenders continued to play well. However, third and fourth between Keith Hector & Alan Duckett, could not be decided by countback after back 9, back 6, back 3 and last hole, so it was declared a tie. If anyone knows what you do after that perhaps you’ll let me know. Have a play off??
After a good journey back, the Outbackers were treated to complimentary food at The Outback Golf Bar, something that will become a regular feature of the monthly bus trip. This month Royal Lakeside.
Friday, March 28, Pattaya Country Club - Stableford
Div A (0–13)
1st Frank Frawley (8) 39pts
2nd Capt’ Bob (6) 35pts
3rd Bill Cook (11) 34pts
4th Dave Boran (13) 33pts
Div B (14+)
1st Dennis Persson (18) 37pts
2nd David Evans (15) 36pts
3rd John Kittleson (23) 34pts
4th Russell White (18) 31pts
2’s: Bill Cook, Capt’ Bob, David Evans.
The recent localised rain has improved this track considerably although the greens were slower than usual and the course remains scruffy round the edges. However, it’s still a good test of golf and one has still to get the ball in the hole. The other lovely thing about this course, it’s only a short journey home which is especially welcome on a Friday.
Frank Frawley came good today with 39pts after a succession of minor place finishes and that man Dennis kept up his challenge for the top spot on the March ladder, collecting another 2 points to overtake Neil Hughes. It will be all to play for on Monday, a medal round at Burapha of course.
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]
The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. Now we have our own minibus and have started regular Pattaya pickups on our golf days. More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com. Our Bus Trip this month is to Royal Lakeside on Weds. 30th April.

Burnie suffering from count back curse

Jomtien Golf with the I.P.G.C.

Monday, March 24, Greenwood – Stableford
A popular venue with most of the lads, regardless of the journey, so a field of 30 players set out today to play the A and C courses. With hardly any breeze at all it was another very hot and discomforting day for most of the lads and lasses.
Jean Morel’s 42 points won division 2 with Glyn Evans coming in second three points behind and Joe Kubon third, beating Brian Blackford on a 21/17 back nine count back after both finished on 38 points.
Into division 1 and Burnie “count back” Sinclair lost out yet again to Ted Morris on a back six count back of 15/13 after they both recorded 38 points. Keith Hector also beat Dave Ross on a count back for third after they both finished on 37 points.
With a rollover from Eastern Star in the division two 2’s competition, Gordon Everingham, Jean Morel and Roger Ribbins all went home smiling while there were no winners in division one.
Near pin prizes today went to Kari Aarnio, Keith Hector, Grenvill Hill, William Chang, Mam Morel and Valentina.
Back at the presentation, birthday wishes were bestowed on Miss Oam, and we said a fond farewell to Jim Connelly, exhausted after three rounds of golf a week for the past two years. He goes back to the USA for a six-month break.
Wednesday, March 26, Emerald – Stableford
For some reason we were allocated a 9 a.m. slot today and with an empty course behind after the last group tee’d off, who knows.
In form Ken Foster won division 2 today with 38 points, while Les hall pipped Leroy Huntingdon on a back six count back for second after they both came in with 35 points.
Dave Richard’s 37 points was enough to win division 1 with Ben Findon coming in second on 35 points after beating Geoff Stubbs on a count back.
Dave Ross took the rollover 2’s pot in division 1 and there were no winners in division 2.
Friday, March 28, Eastern Star – Stableford
With the fairways in immaculate condition now, our regular Friday crowd still enjoys this great course.
With his first podium position this season, Howard Stanley won division 1 with 36 points, followed by Paddy Wilson on 35, who beat the unfortunate Geoff Stubbs yet again on count back. Ken Foster’s 36 beat Rick Newman’s 35 for first place in the lower division.
Mikael Andersson’s ‘2’ was the only birdie recorded on the day in division 1, and once again there were no 2’s in the second division.
The new Siam Cats/ Jomtien Golf website will be launched in the next couple of months with two months fixtures on line, so all of our members who work 4/5 weeks on and off will be able to book online and all the results will be there as well.

Chan Chavulera - the class act at Plutaluang

Eastern Thailand Ladies Golf Club

The Eastern Thailand Ladies Golf Club members display
their trophies after the latest outing to Plutaluang.

Thursday, March 13, Plutaluang – Stroke Medal
Low Gross: Chan Chavulera (12) gross 81
Low Net: Yupa Chaipanya (19) net 70
2nd Net: Lumyai Sayohort (24) net 70
3rd Net: Srinuan Pasdu (11) net 71
Near Pins: Somtavil Srisanga, Thanasorn Vitayachung Tien, Wongwan Pennint, Surin Pudseetong
Long Putt: Malee Jong Joho
The Eastern Thailand Ladies Golf Club held their March outing at Plutaluang golf course on March 13, with another strong field in attendance.
Chan Chavulera proved to be the class act on the day, shooting a loss gross score of 81 (net 69) to take the main prize. Yupa Chaipanya had the consolation of winning the low net score on count back over Lumyai Sayohort.
Darunee Gulbret was awarded the Booby prize for playing the most golf on the day, 122 shots is value for money, and the male guest of honour was Kornvitch Kwag who fired a gross 73 score off his 8 handicap.
The next tournament will be on April 10, also at Plutaluang, with a tee-off at 9 a.m.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Bolton headed south

This week we’ve got another round of Premier League fixtures, FA Cup semi-finals and more Champions League midweek. Is that enough for you?
The weekend just passed was one that provided answers to a number of questions. Arsenal and Chelsea both won, yet neither was convincing and it seems that it’ll take something of a miracle to wrestle the title from clear favourites Manchester United. The Old Trafford side are by far and away the best side in England and possibly Europe at the moment, and were hugely impressive as they made fun of Aston Villa last Saturday.
It was a weekend of two key derbies: Everton were out-muscled by a workmanlike Liverpool side at Anfield and it’s starting to look like the same old top four again. It’s not mathematically sorted but when Everton boss David Moyes starts dismissing the idea it looks pretty much sorted. Now five points behind Liverpool with just six games to go, and two of those games against Chelsea and Arsenal, Moyes said: “A five-point advantage at this stage of the season is a great advantage but I’m looking over my shoulder at teams who are five points behind us and hoping we’ve got enough to stay clear.” So that’s that settled, then.
Talking of Scots and the same old clubs dominating things, a brief move north to the Scottish Premier League and another ‘Old Firm’ derby between Rangers and Celtic. Rangers took the match 1-0 after Kevin Thomson, who had never scored for the club, danced through Celtic’s back line before completing a one-two with Jean-Claude Darcheville and sliding the ball underneath Artur Boruc. They now have a six-point lead with a game in hand, although they have still to make two trips to Celtic Park in the final month of the season.
Not that this prospect will terrify Rangers or their manager Walter Smith, who kept his 100 per cent record against Celtic since returning to the club. His side have won all four Glasgow derbies since then, scoring seven goals without reply.
Back to England, and another frighteningly hectic weekend at the bottom of Premier League. It’s a tricky situation with so many clubs still worrying about their top flight futures, but the picture is finally becoming clearer. Derby failed to take the three points they needed to avoid the drop on Saturday against Fulham, meaning they’re the first side definitely down. Not that Fulham, even with their appalling away record, were too excited about the 2-2 draw either. It leaves them with a mountain to climb, starting with the visit of Sunderland on Saturday, who themselves won again, beating West Ham thanks to goals from Kenwyne Jones and fat Irish winger Andy Reid.
I can’t say I feel much for Bolton Wanderers. They were at least interesting under Sam Allardyce with the odd flair signing, but recently they’ve looked like a poor imitation of the side that so recently had a regular say in the European places each season. Yet perhaps that opinion deserves a rethink after a cracker against Arsenal on Saturday.
The Trotters raced into a 2-0 lead before their opponents miraculously came back with ten men to win 3-2, and with that result I reckon Bolton are headed towards the fun of the Championship. With Birmingham beating Manchester City it leaves Bolton four points away from safety. It will be anything but simple to retain their place in the division, and it starts at Aston Villa on Saturday.
It makes this weekend a crucial point in the season for a number of clubs, but nothing is bigger than Wigan at home to Birmingham, again to be played on Saturday and that’s the game I’d catch if you can. Even if you aren’t particularly attracted to these sides, and let’s face it that’s something even their supporters would have difficulty convincing you of, the game is so enormously, massively, mind-bendingly huge to the players and fans it can only make for great entertainment for the voyeur. Recommended - Wigan to win 2-1.
We move onto Sunday, which curiously has the most meaningless fixture of the weekend live on TV as Everton play Derby. Following that it’s Manchester United away at Middlesbrough. United have been simply amazing in the last fortnight, but Middlesbrough were tremendously unfortunate against Chelsea last week and despite sitting in mid-table obscurity seem to have something to prove. Sandwiched in between United’s season-defining fixtures with Roma, we might see a surprise in this one.
Something for the romantic? How about the FA Cup, which returns this weekend. Portsmouth and West Brom face each other in the weekend’s most enticing match very early Saturday (note that the clocks have gone forward in the UK) and on Sunday it’s Barnsley against Cardiff. Both matches will be played at Wemb-er-lee.
Then there’s the Champions League in midweek. There’s so much football going on right now that it’s almost impossible to stop and analyse what’s going on, but there’s plenty of time for all that later. See you next week.
Euro round-up
A controversial penalty three minutes into added time gave Paris St Germain a 2-1 win over fellow Ligue 1 strugglers Racing Lens in the French League Cup final at the Stade de France on Saturday. Substitute midfielder Bernard Mendy scored the winner from the spot after referee Laurent Duhamel ruled that Lens defender Hilton had fouled forward Peguy Luyindula.
The offence looked far from obvious and the penalty decision was met by deafening boos from the Lens fans, whose team had fought back from a goal down and were hoping for extra time. “I feel we’ve been robbed and Mr Duhamel robbed us,” Lens coach Jean-Pierre Papin told French television channel France 3. “To lose a final that way is a scandal.”
In Spain, Barcelona look to have blown their Liga chances after surrendering a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 at Real Betis last Saturday. The defeat meant Barcelona slipped to third behind Villareal, and more importantly seven points off leaders Read Madrid, who beat Sevilla.
Draws for Germany’s top three meant Bayern moved a step closer to the Bundesliga title, whilst in Italy AC Milan’s defeat to Atalanta see the Rossoneri slip to sixth position and in huge danger of not qualifying for next year’s Champions League. Fancy that. Ajax closed PSV’s lead in Holland to just five points.
Own goals – Clear as mud
UEFA has laid down formal guidelines to determine an own goal in matches it organises, it said last Friday. “There has been a lot of debate over deflected goals and whether they should be awarded to the player who originally shot at goal or the player who got the last touch,” president Michel Platini told reporters. “We want to clear the issue up and have the same rules at every match.”
Platini said referees would be instructed to award a goal to the player who intended to score, provided the ball was already heading towards the net when the deflection occurred. Off-target shots diverted into the net will be attributed to the player who deflects the ball.
Isn’t that how it was already? Oh well.

P.C. at the double

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
This week was definitely Paul Challis’s week. He may be a thirty-handicapper but that did not stop him from winning two flights in consecutive days. Thirty-seven points on Monday at Green Valley took the single division outing and thirty-six on Tuesday at Pattana took division three. Well played Paul.

Monday’s winners: John Thornbur, Paul Challis and Barry Hooper.

I have been asked by our hard working organiser Fergus Brennan to say a big “Thank You” to the management of the Eastern Star Golf Club. Last Friday they put on a invitational event for a large gathering for the organisers and managers of the various bars and organisations who regularly take their golfers to the course and it was a full on day with every thing at the expense of the club. What a great gesture. Hats off to you all.
Monday, March 24, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Paul Challis (30) 37pts
2nd John Thornbur (19) 36pts
3rd Ray Allison (15) 35pts
4th Barry Hooper (36) 31pts
Monday saw a quality but small turnout at Green Valley. I personally had never played the course before and I was impressed by the treatment from the staff and caddies. I thought the course was tricky but fair. The greens were pretty slick at the start but that was all to change after the rain came down for about an hour. This proved to be the tester for many.
Paul Challis came out on top after John Thornbur admitted that he had infringed a rule concerning the placing not dropping of his ball in a water filled bunker after the downpour. This resulted in a loss of two shots and dropped him to second spot. Ray Allison was third, and to my surprise I scraped a fourth place.
Tuesday, March 25, Pattana - Stableford
A Flight (0-11)
1st Ito Akitoshi (8) 36pts
2nd Ray Trembath (10) 35pts
3rd Roy Holmes (18) 33pts
B Flight (12-18)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (18) 38pts
2nd John Merritt (13) 36pts
3rd David McFeely (18) 32pts
C Flight (19-up)
1st Paul Challis (30) 36pts
2nd Jack Robertson (22) 33pts
3rd Colin Cronin (19) 31pts
2’s: Jack Robertson (2), David Hamilton (2), Mike Rushant
Near Pins: Jack Robertson, Roy Holmes, David Hamilton (2)
Tuesday at Pattana, and a very large turnout of forty players took the opportunity to visit this excellent venue. The course was reported to be in great condition with the greens like glass.
Ito Akitoshi took division one by one point from Ray Trembath. Division two had Sugar Ray Handford at the top of the list with 38 points, two up on John Merritt whilst division three saw Paul Challis make it two wins in a row with 36 points and a three point cushion over Jack Robertson.
Thursday, March 27, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Stuart Rogers (11) 36pts
2nd Ray Trembath (10) 35pts
3rd Ray Allison (15) 35pts
4th Brian Prudden (20) 35pts
5th Ben Nelson (16) 34pts
2’s: Ben Nelson, Ray Trembath
Near Pins: Dean Rice, Eddie Townsend, Ray Trembath, Neil Allison
Thursday was a trip to Bangpra and a single division event with some twenty-three participants.
Stuart Rogers was best on the day with 36 points while second, third and fourth were decided on a count back with all the players scoring 35 points: Ray Trembath took second, Ray Allison third and Brian Prudden fourth. Ben Nelson was a further point back in fifth.
Saturday, March 29, Eastern Star (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0-17)
1st Tony Perry (15) 37pts
2nd Tewin Lamthong (13) 36pts
3rd Mod Chaviraksa (15) 35pts
4th John Merritt (13) 35pts
B Flight (18-up)
1st Marlene Prudden (23) 38pts
2nd Colin Cronin (20) 38pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (18) 37pts
4th Sergio Volpi (23) 35pts
Near Pins: Ray Trembath (2), Kay Molloy, Tony Molloy
2’s: Fergus Brennan
Saturday, and our usual weekend visit to Eastern Star had a large turnout and two flights. The course as usual was in tip-top condition and as always the staff and support on the course were second to none.
The flight honours on the day went to Marlene Prudden in the B Flight with 38 points from (Mr. Two) Colin Cronin also with 38 on count back. Harvey Samuel was third on 37 points
The A Flight winner was Tony Perry on 37 points, one up on Tewin Lamthong with 36. Mod Chaviraksa was third with 35 points after a count back fight with John Merritt.
Fergus Brennan nabbed the 2’s pot with a great chip in from the valley at the par-three sixth hole.
Reminder - If anyone is interested in golfing with the Travellers Rest we play every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at 7:45 am for breakfast and transportation and new players are always made to feel welcome. Call Tewin on 086 056 7019 for further information.

Ferris gets it right at Crystal Bay

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Tuesday, March 25, the Pattaya Golf Society visited a jaded Crystal Bay golf club to play a stableford event over the A and B nines. The course is disappointingly starting to show signs of a heavy high season and the greens were also inconsistent and slow. However, a warm welcome greeted the golfers as usual and a fine golf day was in prospect.

Taki-san and Paul McNally savour a successful day at Green Valley.

With two flights cut at nineteen and under, Larry Slater, Stuart Thompson and Kazu Sakamoto took a share of second place in the top flight with 35 points each, two behind the winner, David Thomas, who shared the best gross honours with Paul Menially and Tai-san.
The second flight saw some fine golf with Emiel van deer Wiele and Pat Murphy sharing third place on 35 points, one behind Ian Hart’s level-par runner-up position. The best score of the day was recorded by Jim Ferris, who has promised much but has been frustratingly inconsistent until today. His card of 42 points represents his best efforts in Thailand and contained a 19 - 23 split of which he will be proud.
The birdie 2’s achieved by Chris Walsh and Helene Lindbergh on A8 gave them a share of the pot and Larry Slater received the Booby Bevy as compensation for breaking his 3-wood, following through against a tree. He had used it for thirteen years and, like an old friend, it will be hard to replace.
But there were better memories for Jim Ferris after an outstanding contribution to the day’s golf.
Super Mac outstanding
Green Valley was the venue on Thursday, March 27, when the group played a stableford event in two flights, cut at twenty and under. It has to be said that the course has been in better condition but the recently cored greens will be all but a memory in a week or so.
The day was to throw up one of those sublimely memorable performances but firstly, in the second flight, Pat Murphy and Ann Silawong tied for third place with 32 points each, behind runner-up Len Jones and his 36 points. The flight winner was Swiss golfer Andreas Bardill whose 40 points reflected some accurate play from the fairways, something lacking in his game previously.
In the top flight Stuart Thompson took third place with 37 points and Kazuo Takimoto again emphasised his skill with an excellent 39-point haul. The hero of the day was Paul McNally who played the best golf of his life in scoring a gross 68 on the challenging course to achieve a stableford score of 42 points off his handicap of two. It included an eagle-eagle-birdie combination on holes seven, eight and nine in a frightening four-under front nine. Surely it was the finest golf performance ever seen with the PGS.
It goes without saying that “SuperMac” took three shares of the 2’s pot, along with minor shares for Stuart Thompson, Taki, Bill Quon and Emiel van de Wiele.
As a celebration of his retirement two years ago Paul Quodomine generously sponsored four technical prizes and near-pin vouchers were won by Stuart Thompson (two), Brett Warnock and Paul McNally. The Booby Bevy was awarded to the sartorially challenged Chris Voller as a reminder that standards are high at the OK Corral!
But the day will be remembered for the stunning golf produced by Geordie Paul McNally on one of the toughest tracks in the area. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Ian Hogg’s the limelight
Saturday, March 29, the Pattaya Golf Society visited Plutaluang to play a stableford event over the North and West nines, only to find that a local field of eight five/six-balls had occupied their tee-off slot, thus delaying the start of what was to be their regular weekend event.
No golf carts were available, leading a number of the competitors no option but to withdraw and the rest of the field were left watching complete novices tee off as a “five” or “six”. Later the sight of twenty-two people on the par three N6th, at the same time, almost proved to be the end, but undaunted, the group patiently completed their six-hour competition and sensibly then made a conscious decision to transfer their future Sunday golf to Ban Chang instead.
On the day John Rehm scored 34 points for third place, with Peter Masters taking second with 35 whilst fellow Aussie Ian Hogg took a debut win with 36 points.
No birdie 2’s were scored on the painfully slow greens and it was with relief that the group took their leave of Plutaluang hospitality in favour of a more welcoming administration a few “klicks” further down the road. ‘Bye ‘bye Plutaluang, enough said.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

Original ‘Golden Boy’ dies
Long before boxing fans would name Oscar DeLaHoya “The Golden Boy,” there was Art Aragon - The original “Golden Boy.” He was brash, self-promoting and one hell of a fighter. In a 16-year career he had 89 wins with only 19 losses – and for good measure he had 60 KO’s.
Aragon, although born in New Mexico (which is what some call California today) fought out of Southern California, either at the world famous Olympic, The Hollywood Legion Stadium or Wrigley Field, which at the time was the home of the minor league Los Angeles Angels baseball team.
In a career that spanned 1949-1960 he fought them all - beating most. His one title shot came against Jimmy Carter. He lost but did beat Carter in two non-title fights. Among Aragon’s victims were Danny “Bang Bang’ Womber (43-23), Don Jordon (51-23), Cisco Andrade (46-12), Chicho Vijar (92-20) and Joe Micelli (60-42). Aragon would lose to the great Carmen Basillio (60-42).
Two of Aragon’s fights stick in the memory. The first was against the very popular Lauro Salas (84-53) who fought a majority of his Southern California fights at the Hollywood Legion Stadium. A rivalry developed between the pair as the two most popular Mexican fighters as well as between the two venues. In 1952 they would meet at the Olympic.
At a press conference, probably MC’d by Jimmy Lennon the father, somebody asked Aragon if a win would make him the most popular Mexican fighter in LA. “I’m not f****** Mexican, I’m Spanish,” he replied.
He entered the ring the night of March 4, 1952 to a chorus of boos, a shower of beer cups and anything else that was throwable. He won a majority decision which brought forth more boos, more beer cups and even a few bottles. Aragon loved it.
Two years later he would meet Chuck Davy (42-5) at the Olympic. Davy was the darling of the boxing world. He was a graduate of Michigan State and a stable of the Wednesday night fights brought to you by Pabst Blue Ribbon. “What’ll you have? Pabst Blue Ribbon.” At 37-0, Davy got a title shot against Kid Gavilan losing on a TKO in 10. Then he lost two to Al Andrews. His match against Aragon was a “get well” fight. Referee Mushy Callahan had it for Aragon 56-54, Judge Charley Randolph had it 58-52 for Aragon while judge Joe Stone scored it for Davy 55-54.
From the record book it read: “The officials that voted for Aragon were suspended, probably because of the loud protests made by those that bet on Davy, according to Bill Miller of The Ring. They were later reinstated.”
Art Aragon - gone but not forgotten: The original “Golden Boy” of boxing who died at age 80.
Danny Green – Going … going … gone!
WBA light heavyweight world champion Danny Green surprisingly retired from boxing last week at the age of 35. The announcement came as Green was in training for his scheduled WBA light-heavyweight title defense against Hugo Garay in Sydney on April 27.
Green had been a recent favorite of TSR for his verbal jibes aimed at Aussie boxing great Jeff Fenech and his arch-rival Anthony Mundine. Some thought that Green might retire after he lost to Mundine in May of ’06.
His announcement was not the usual “I want to spend time with my family. I am getting out on my terms, with my dignity and respect intact,” affairs. Green said, “I have made the decision of an intelligent man - looking to 25 years in the future. There was talk of me retiring after the Anthony Mundine fight. I knew I had more to offer and I am very glad I trusted my instincts.”
Danny Green was about as good as it gets in the sport today. With only 3 losses from 25 fights and 22 KO’s he was a “professional” in every sense of the word. Two of Green’s three losses came against Markus Beyer and the other against Anthony Mundine. His brightest moment probably came when he took the WBC “interim super-middleweight title” with a 6-round TKO of Canada’s Eric Lucas, in Canada. This win came after he was DQ’d against Beyer going for the WBC super-middleweight title. While the “interim title holder” Green got another chance against Beyer for the “not interim super-middleweight title.” He lost over 12 by UD.
As has been mentioned many times, his fight against Mundine drew 30,000 spectators to Sydney’s Aussie Stadium. There is one question that remains though: How can the WBC have a super-middleweight title-holder and an “interim” title-holder in the same division and at the same time? Feeble minds want to know
Peter Buckley retires
On the other side of the “I quit” scale is the retirement of British welterweight Peter Buckley. Buckley turned pro in 1989 to embark on a career in professional boxing. His nickname was “Professor Welterweight.”
Over the course of his career he fought some of the best in the business including former champions Johnny Bredahl, Naseem “The Camel Jockey” Hamad (twice), Acelino Fritas, Lehlohonolo Ledwaba, Scott Harrison (twice), Paul Ingle, Gavin Rees and “Dapper” Dave Stewart twice. The downside of that impressive list of boxers is that most of those bouts came before they were champs and the fact that all were losses.
Fact is that Mr. Buckley had lots of losses over his career: 249 of them to be exact. Along the way he picked up 31 wins and 11 draws from his total of 291 fights and had only 8 KO’s, which would indicate a lack of power. Yeah, that’s why we get paid the big bucks to pick out the subtle nuances.
The British press did report that all of Buckley’s fight were in the UK. Not so. He traveled to Denmark for the Bredahl fight. It’s hard to believe that with 241 losses there could be one particular bad streak but Buckley did go 5 years and 80 fight without a win.
Through it all Buckley has retained a sense of humor. He said upon retiring, “Boxing has allowed me to have nice holidays. The game also allowed me to earn a lot of respect and it’s increased my own self-respect. And, it’s kept me out of prison.”
Peter Buckley, “You be the Man!”
What he didn’t say…
The dust has cleared after the Pacquiao-Marquez fight but is a re-match in sight? Not likely. “BS” Bob Arum (co-promoter of Pacquiao) has been on Philippine radio stations saying that if there is a rematch Pacquiao should get $8 million USD.
Here’s the gentleman’s logic: Arum said the gate of the fight saw an income of $3,350,000, excluding the nearly $60,000 sales of the closed-circuit coverage. TSR is assuming that by “closed circuit” he means closed circuit at the venue. With everything Arum says you have to run things through a “fact checker.”
HBO said the PPV did 400,000 buys, which equates to $20.2 million USD. Half that amount goes to the PPV folks with the remaining half going to the promoters, fighters, sanctioning bodies, venue and other assorted “nar-do-wells.”
Mark Taffer of HBO said: “The results were the most for any pay-per-view telecast at a weight below welterweight in boxing history.” Well la tee flipping dah! That’s like saying TSR is the best weakly boxing column in the Pattaya Mail.
So of the amount stated above, Arum says Pacquiao should get $8 Million USD? Yeah, right Bobby. Guess he majored neither at math or logic at Harvard.
Casamayor - an apology
TSR has never been a big fan of the talented Joel Casamayor because he never seemed to fulfill that gift. Having watched him stink up the joint on many occasions when he would sleep walk through fights, show little desire and even less interest, he turned off most fight fans.
Casamayor however gained redemption with a spectacular comeback against Michael Katsidis (23-1) at an Injun casino in California. One boxing writer called the win “brilliant” and for once was correct.
The fight started with a bang as Casamayor dropped Katsidis twice in round one with straight lefts. It looked like curtains for Katsidis but Casamayor couldn’t close the deal. From the third round on Katsidis took control, landing a plethora of brutal punches that in the past would have left Casamayor sprawling on the mat.
In the 6th Katsidis knocked Casamayor completely out of the ring. Casamayor survived and looked to be gaining some ground when he lost a point in the 9th for a low blow. Well deserved. Then out of the blue early in the 10th Casamayor landed a blow that dropped Katsidis like a Teelock drops a broke punter. Fight over.
Casamayor was trailing on 2 of the 3 judges cards, correctly, when the end came. Hell of a comeback, hell of a fight.
Jeeves Jive
“Golden Boy Promotions will put on their first show in the Philippines on Sunday when Thailand’s Ratanachai Sor Vorapin (72-9) gets another title shot and rematch against Gerry Penalosa (52-6-2). The first match in 2000 ended in the 6th when Vorapin got KO’d.
“Penalosa appears to have improved a bit so he should make the home fans happy. The best thing about the bout may be that Ali-Frazier was held in the same venue.
“There’s a Big ‘Square Ring’ day at the Muay Thai fights a week on Saturday at the Bangkok Boxing Stadium. All the swell folks from TSR will be there in all there finery as sports coats are required. On hand for the fights and probably a few adult beverages will be Monkey House Fred, The Lord of Pattaya, The Flying Frog and Doug “The Gov” Harrison from Bourbon Street in Bangkok. Bourbon Street will be the official headquarters for TSR’s ‘Day at the Fights.’ All will be treated with FREE VIP tickets. A van will be leaving Pattaya on Friday for Bangkok.
“Whilst his Lordship is now in residence in Pattaya, a well-known figure in boxing has e-mailed him with regard to his comment about “appointed officials” in boxing from last week’s column. The email states: ‘I found it particularly appropriate to point out the problems with appointing a non-boxing person to a commission to oversee the sport. I’m glad that you have big ****s and define a problem that needs correction … I don’t know the full reason why Marc (Ratner) left but his absence leaves a void in the Mecca of boxing.’
“And now, with his Lordship in residence in a suite at the Diana Inn … I’ll dip into the lager, fire up a fine cigar and listen to some classic Elton John. Life is good.”

Phil Groves back at the top

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 24, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Alan Howell 38pts
2nd Phil Groves 35pts
3rd Barry Traynor 34pts
4th Lyle Blaw 34pts
5th Yasuo Suzuki 34pts
Khao Kheow from the yellow tees is always a fair test of golf, and when playing the re-designed C course with something like an additional 200 yards to the distances shown on the score cards, it is rare to find many contenders at par or better.
The day’s competition was another of those with only the winner, Alan Howell, able to best the course and he finished a clear three shots ahead of his nearest challenger Phil Groves, who followed up his recent resurgence with another placing.
Barry Traynor is always to be found in the frame when the going gets tough, and he chalked up another for third spot ahead of Lyle Blaw and Yasuo Suzuki who both had to be separated by the count back for fourth and fifth places.
For the third time there were no 2’s in the second division but Serge Straeten and Phil Groves had one each in the first division.
Wednesday, March 26, Eastern Star – 2-Person Scramble
1st Al Keith & Alan Griffiths 46pts c/b 25
2nd Mikael Andersson & Dave Thompson 46pts c/b 24
3rd Alan Howell & Fred Chadwick 46pts c/b 22
4th Rick Holmes & Roy Thornton 45pts
5th Barry Winton & Stephen Beard 44pts c/b 22
6th Lenard Commons & Dave Spendley 44pts c/b 19
A change from the usual venue of the monthly 2-person scramble from Mountain Shadow, drew a larger than normal entry list, which made for a very competitive day’s fun golf without the strain of the handicappers pencil in the background.
With the wind blowing at a reasonable rate, club selection was at a premium and it was no surprise to find that the more experienced teams were to be found at the top of the leader board.
They were led by Al and Alan with an excellent back nine after a steady opening half which secured first place ahead of Mikael and Dave on count back. Also in the hunt but unable to capitalize on a very good outward half were Alan and Fred, but they had to be content with third on count back as the night-before activities started to take their toll and the pins started to look further and further away from the tees.
Rick and Roy, befitting as the premier Army Team in the field, took sole command of fourth spot, with the former returning to golf after a long layoff from illness and Roy very graciously agreeing to partner a less than 100% team mate, and they very nearly made it, but unfortunately faded a little on the inward nine as the birdies refused to drop.
Barry and Stephen’s pairing nearly came good but after a frustrating first half when the puts would not go in, the back nine also proved equally as disappointing and fifth by count back from Len and Dave was the best they could achieve.
Due to the format the 2’s competitions were suspended.
Friday, March 28, Phoenix (Blue Tees) - Monthly Medal
Division 1
1st Phil Groves net 73
2nd Chris Davisson net 78
3rd Trevor Schirmer net 78
4th Alan Griffiths net 78
Division 2
1st Chris Knapp net 75
2nd Brian Kelly net 76
3rd John Dahlseng net 77
After a long time in the wilderness, but with some recent signs of a return to the old days, Phil Groves took his first win for a while although the difficult conditions meant that he would have to be satisfied with a first place over par, although the standard scratch was set at 74 from the blue tees meant reduction in handicap would be sure to follow. Chris Davisson led in the first division’s chasing group with a better count back from Trevor Schirmer and Alan Griffiths.
The second division was headed by the pre-competition favourites Chris Knapp and Brian Kelly, with the Cap’n just getting the better, and first place, with a determined finish that saw off Brian into second and John Dahlseng into third.
With no one at par or better in either division it was unsurprising that the CSS went out to 75 from the day’s SS of 74.
Mark Cooper had the only 2 in the first division and once again there were none in the second division.

‘Nice Guy’ Gary has top score of the week

Ottoway leads the way at Navy

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, March 24, Bangpra – Stableford
The Bangpra International Golf Course was the host for a stableford competition in two flights with the cut at handicap 19. The course on the day was on the dry side due to a lack of rain and it is also under renovation to celebrate it’s 50th anniversary and several new tee boxes and a new green are currently under construction. The Clubhouse will be under renovation from mid April to the end of June with temporary facilities in the original hotel.

Darryl Ottoway shot a fine 41-point round at Plutaluang.

Doug Maiko took the A Flight with 35 points ahead of Jan Lovgren in second with 33 points and Neil Allison in third on count back from Richard Kubicki, Kris Helgasson and Guy Frazer, all 32 points.
Carole Kubicki was the only one to break handicap to take the B Flight with 38 points. Bjorn Kristjohannson was second with 34 points and Peter Hammond third with 33 points.
Near Pins: John Swanson (2), Johan Reynisson, Peter Hammond
Long Putt: Dave Richardson, Hen De Bock
Thursday, March 27, Plutaluang – Stableford
This was a ‘Dave Day Out’, being ex-navy he really feels at home here, and the cost of the golf and the food after does help to class this as a fine day out. I have to say that at present the course is in good condition and on this day we played the South and East Nines, which in my opinion are the better 18 holes, and are in very good condition.
The winner of the A Flight, 0 to 18 was Darryl Ottoway with a fine 41 points ahead of a count back on 37 points that saw Bruce Lawrence in second, Ebrahim in third and Johan Reynisson just losing out.
In the B Flight the winner was Paul Walters with 37 points ahead of a count back for second on 33 points that saw Peter Hammond in second, John Dahlseng in third and Henk De Bock just losing out. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Darryl Ottoway (2), Don Richardson, Michael Cantrell
Long Putt: Tom Cotton, Darryl Ottoway

Perry plays a pearler – takes monthly award