Bryan wins monthly award for March

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, March 31, Khao Kheow - Stableford
The last game of March saw Bryan Rought crowned as The Bunker’s ‘Golfer of the Month’ and although he wasn’t in the winners’ enclosure today, he had done enough beforehand to claim the trophy. Well done Bryan.

Bryan Rought was The Bunker’s “Golfer of the Month’ for March.

With just a single flight and playing stableford, Geoff Parker had the best score of the day winning with 38 points. Fred Griffin and Gerry Cooney both returned 37 points each with Fred just beating Gerry on a count back for second while William Macey took fourth spot with 33 points.
William also won two near pin prizes with the others going to Glen Cunningham and John McDonald.
Wednesday, April 2, Green Valley - Medal
Green Valley was the venue for Wednesday and with the golf courses not so full of tourists now, it was a pleasure to get around in good time.
Playing medal and with the cut at handicap 13, Gerry Cooney had the best round of the day shooting a five-under par net 67 to win the A Flight ahead of John Graham, who also had a good round coming in with a three-under par net 69. In third place was a disappointed Paul Smith playing off handicap three and finishing with a one-under par net 71.
In the B Flight Alan Sullivan won by one shot with a level par net 72, while Mike Lloyd pushed Eddie Martin into third place beating him on a count back after both scored net 73’s.
Near pin prizes went to PJ Redmond, JJ Harney, Alan Freeman and John Graham.
Friday, April 4, Plutaluang - Stableford
Friday at Plutaluang and a stableford event with the cut made at handicap 17.
Jim Wooler, playing his first game in a while won the B Flight with 37 points. Bryan Rought took second place with 33 points and Brian Maddox came third with a paltry 28 points.
The scores were better in the A Flight where Tony Robbins took the top honours, winning with 38 points. Mashi Kaneta came second with 37 points and Alan Sullivan took third place with 35 points.
Near pin prizes were spread around again and were shared between Alan Freeman, Jim Wooler, William Macey and Mashi Kaneta.

Danny misses out with a ‘Hole in Three’

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, March 31, Burapha – Medal/Stableford
Div A (0-13)
1st Desmond Scott (10) net 69
2nd Chris Davisson (10) net 72
3rd Jack Moseley (8) net 73
4th Roger Ison (10) net 75
Div B (14-19)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) net 73
2nd Neil Hughes (15) net 76
3rd Barry McIntosh (16) net 77
4th Keith Hector (16) net 77
Div C (20+)
1st Brian Prudden (20) 39pts
2nd Norm Martin (26) 35pts
3rd John Cogan (22) 34 pts
4th Tony Duthie (21) 34pts
2’s: Gary Blackburne, Barry McIntosh, Carl Luke, Peter Gibson, Roger Ison, Chris Davisson (2)
Forty-five Outbackers supported the regular day at their ‘home’ course, and were divided into three divisions: the top two flights played medal and the higher handicappers were given an easier time playing the regular stableford.
Today was millionaire golf, teeing off slightly early with nobody in front and no pressure from the groups behind, the first group sped round in three and a half hours, playing medal! Just goes to show, golf shouldn’t be slow.
The localised storms threatened but did not materialise on the course but with the exception of Des Scott with a fine 69 and Brian Prudden with 39pts, nobody bettered their handicap.
Today was also the last day of the ladder as the two main contenders Neil Hughes and Dennis Persson battled together in the same four-ball for the March title. Neil was going pretty strongly on the front and looked like he would nick back the honour from leader Dennis, but his challenge faltered as the pressure of the back nine got to him, leaving Dennis the winner of the March ladder, Neil second and Capt’ Bob in third.
Wednesday, April 2, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Div A (0–16)
1st Bruce Milner (14) 37pts
2nd Dave Arrowsmith (4) 36pts
3rd Barry McIntosh (16) 36pts
4th Sugar Ray Hanford (16) 34pts
Div B (17+)
1st Marlene Prudden (21) 37pts
2nd John Spiller (24) 34pts
3rd John Kittlesen (23) 33pts
4th Peter Marsh (22) 32pts
2’s: Bob Philp, Rick Evans, Frank Frawley
When is a hole in one not a hole in one? Answer - when you’re three off the tee! On the infamous island green 8th on ‘B’ course, Danny Dyke stuffed his tee shot into the water. Thinking that a four for two or a five for one would be ok, he promptly stepped up and holed his next tee shot. After marking three for three, there’s no remarks column, he couldn’t hide his excitement mixed with disappointment as it didn’t count as a hole in one, and everybody knows it will be a long time before one comes along. Good shot though Danny!
For most of the rest of the Outbackers, Khao Kheow proved to be the usual tough course but Bruce Milner and Marlene Prudden, the winners of their respective divisions, both played good golf to score 37 points each. Marlene was also the second success of the week for the “Pruddens” after Brian’s success on Monday.
After a shaky start on the back nine (‘C’ course), going in the water on the par five 1st hole for a double bogey, and bogeying the 2nd, Dave Arrowsmith then birdied the 4th but put his drive OB on the 6th, but still ended up with a fine gross 76 after holing some great putts throughout. Well played Dave!
Friday, April 4, Plutaluang - Stableford
1st Norm Martin (26) 37pts
2nd Dave Evans (15) 36pts
3rd John Kittlesen (23) 32pts
4th Dave Headington (17) 32pts
5th Sugar Ray Handford (16) 29pts
2’s: None
Again lucky with the weather here today. As the storms rumbled all around the Outbackers remained undaunted as they tackled the difficult North and West nines. It seemed that Norm Martin and Dave Evans played a different course as they finished well clear of the rest with a fine 37 and 36 points respectively. Most players had difficulty getting the ball to the hole on the slow grainy greens said Capt’ Bob.
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]
Reminder: 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. 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. April 30 with complimentary food back at the bar.

Eastern ‘Five’ Star Hospitality

Eastern Star Golf Club & Resort lays on a special ‘Thank You’ party for Pattaya’s golfers

Mike Franklin
Eastern Star hospitality was at its best and unquestionably ‘Five Star’ quality on Friday March 28 when the ESR Management team hosted a ‘Thank You’ party for representatives from the golf groups, venues and agencies in Pattaya.
From the welcome drink on arrival, snacks & drinks on the course, to the cold beer on the 18th green to conclude a complimentary stroke-play round of golf, with golf cart and caddies included, it was golf at its best.
On the Friday prior, when Pattaya Sports Club played the annual PSC Charity Classic, the course was reported to be at a high standard, but players who played that day and on this claimed the fairways and greens were even better. All credit to Course Superintendant, Khun Kaweeporn, the man always on the stroll around the course with the ever present white towel around his neck. Khun Chinapat, Operations Manager took care of the golf on the day with the efficient Starter and course staff. This was social golf at its best, with just one Low Gross trophy on offer for the day, won by Fergus Brennan’s Gross 83 (39 & 44).

The GM tees off at the 1st.
However, the golf was just half of it as the early evening party was set up at the Beach Pool with the guest tables, each hosted by a member of the ESR team, sited under the palm trees.
Distinguished guests taking part included former Thailand Ambassador to Spain, H.E. Khun Pridi, and former Provincial Governor, Khun Panat.
The band occupied one of the rocky slopes and the pool refreshment shelter took on a new look offering a lavish Thai & Western buffet, live carving, pasta & seafood stations. Nothing was missed and all credit to the F&B manager, Khun Sekon.
Golf tournament complimentary bars are usually a choice of draught beer or house wine, and rightly so due to budget considerations. Not so on this occasion. Beer of course, but a full spirit range through to brandy. Only one choice of wine, a red, but it was a Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet, a wine usually kept for a special occasion – but then this was a special ‘thank you’ occasion.

A perfect putt on its way.
Khun Pasagon made all the arrangements, supported by Asst. GM Khun Gobpong. The big screen reminded players what they had been doing during the afternoon and a Souvenir re-cycled bag was given to all the players when they left to remind them of the evening.
Finally, special thanks go to the GM Khun Pinij who signed the bill at the end of the day.
The Eastern Star Beach Pool is a really spectacular location for a party and has seen many birthdays and weddings, but this was the first time a golf event had been hosted there, and hopefully not the last. I had the pleasant task of emceeing the evening with a lovely co-presenter, Khun Tic from the office staff.
The only negative aspect to the day was the low attendance, but on evidence from previous parties generously hosted by Eastern Star, it can only have been that the day chosen was a Friday. Many of the groups have tournaments running every Friday, whereas on a Saturday the diary is mainly clear.
Congratulations to GM Khun Pinij and his team for a wonderful day and not least, free-flow Penfolds Koonunga Hill.

The live band play on at the poolside.

A sumptuous evening feast was laid on for all the players.

A refreshing bar at the 18th awaits the finishing golfers.

The Eastern Star beach pool: a really spectacular location for a party.

A great pair of 42’s in the week

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 31, Greenwood B & C - Stableford
1st Russell Exley 42pts
2nd Lyle Blaw 39pts
3rd Richard Lyne 37pts
4th Robert Morrissey 37pts
5th Barry Traynor 37pts
Russell Exley took full advantage of an excellently prepared Greenwood B and C courses on Monday where the greens were once again in tip top condition. Scores were always going to be good, but six under par from a three times a week golfer indicates an exceptional round and fittingly it was Russell’s life time best at gross 77. It was also fittingly played with Barry Traynor, his playing partner, who also had a lifetime best of 77 when playing with Russell earlier in the year.
Lyle Blaw also had the best round of his many times in Thailand, with a gross 80 that secured him second spot ahead of the resurgent Richard Lyne, who seems to have at last worked out how to play golf following a night on the town with The RSM, Andy Pedlar.
Robert Morrissey took his first placing for some time at the expense of Barry Traynor, whose one-under back nine was not quite good enough after an outstanding four-under on the outward half.
Phil Groves had the only 2 in the first division, and after five outings without a winner, Dave Thompson finally took home the amassed loot in the second division.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back Peter Biggs and Peter Brown.
Wednesday, April 2, Khao Kheow B & C - Stableford
1st Roy Thornton 42pts
2nd Barry Traynor 38pts
3rd Richard Lyne 37pts
4th Glyn Nicholas 36pts
5th Rick Holmes 35pts
If one sees Roy Thornton in the distance and at close quarters and observes the difficulty he experiences in just walking, it is almost inconceivable that he could put together a round six-under his already low handicap. But this he achieved over the fairly difficult B & C courses off the yellow tees to claim the day’s honours by four clear strokes. This was an outstanding achievement that shows a serious dedication to the job in hand, and fully worthy of the very loud and warm round of applause he received at the prize giving.
Barry Traynor may well have thought that two-under might well be good enough on the day with the course playing fairly tough and with the wind picking up as the round progressed, but it was not to be and second was his lot ahead of Richard Lyne, who picked up his second placing of the week.
Glyn Nicholas showed some sort of return to form with a solid level-par round that was just good enough to deny fourth place to the recently returned Rick Holmes.
Having timed his return badly, almost inevitably Glyn Nicholas had the only 2 in the second division; and by missing out by a single competition, the return was a little less than planned.
In the first division, Barry Traynor, Rick Holmes and Phil Groves shared a meager pool.
Back at The Haven Larry Simpson was welcomed back and farewells were made to Andy Pedlar and the in-form Richard Lyne, one returning to tend to his horses and the other the nag.
Friday, April 4, Phoenix Lakes & Ocean - Stableford
1st Barry Traynor 39pts
2nd Glyn Nicholas 39pts
3rd Alan Griffiths 37pts
4th Barry Winton 37pts
5th Russell Exley 36pts
6th Al Keith 36pts
After seeing the two previous competitions won with a very unusual 42 points, Barry Traynor was not over confident as he handed in his card for the day, but in the event it was Glyn Nicholas who was to be disappointed as after his best round for a couple of years, it was Barry who prevailed in the count back by two and Glyn was left ruing the missed chances over the closing holes. It was though, a fair result for Barry who capped off a fine week’s golf with a win and a drop in handicap to 10, having been robbed of a return to 9 point something by virtue of the three CSS’s that were calculated at 71 in the week.
Alan Griffiths just got the better of Barry Winton as the latter squandered a great round up to the 17th with a blob on the last following a mighty drive down the left of the 9th Ocean and capped it off with a tree iron, shank, knobble, chip, putt, putt.
Russell Exley just headed one of his teachers, with a slightly better back nine for 5th place. Russell also missed dropping to a 10 handicap due to the lower CSS’s
Even with Barry Traynor and Glyn Nicholas in such good form, there were no 2’s in either division, and with no one to welcome or welcome back the prize giving was a quick fire affair for once.

The scribe takes it after ‘back nine’ recovery

Phoenix Tuesday Golf from Toy’s Music Bar

Mike Gerrard
Once again the threat of rain turned into a deluge for about 30 minutes, but we managed to get away on time today. Also, once again, albeit a Tuesday at Sports Day rates, we had the course virtually to ourselves: truly millionaire’s golf!

Last Tuesday’s winner Mike with two of the lovely hostesses from Toys Music Bar.
After a few storms of late the course is in magnificent condition, especially considering the traffic it has taken over the last four to five months: a tribute to the management and ground staff at Phoenix. Mind you, it has to said that our greenkeeper is a real sadist and comedian at some of the pin placements on very fast greens. Same for everybody though.
Lakes and Ocean was the challenge for our groups and I have to say we saw some pretty good shots throughout the day, not least of all by rookie Tommie Raven who hit a most beautiful 7 iron 160 yards at the par-3 Ocean 5 hole to within five feet of the pin. Tom has never had a birdie (the golfing kind) in his golfing career yet, and sadly he just missed the putt that would have broken that jinx.
With the weather conditions very humid it was certain that the points scores were going to be low today. For the guys who braved the whole course on foot this proved to be the truth. Many scores reflected poor back nines, except one, by my very self. Having a poor 14 points on the front (and then ordering a cart for the back nine) I managed to amass a total of 20 points on the back (with a blob) to give a grand total of 34 points to win the day.
Golf over we all made our way back to Toy’s Music Bar where the winnings went on the table for the first round of drinks, served to us by some of the lovely girls. We then relaxed and listened to some good old 50’s and 60’s music.
As you may have spotted, the golf today was on a Tuesday and this is how it is going to stay for the future. Not only does it take away the threat of Monday holiday prices (which happens far too frequently in Thailand) it also provides for a set green fee of 700 baht for all visitors, by being on a Sports Day at Phoenix.
Tee off times are reserved from 12 Noon every Tuesday. If you would like to join in the fun (but under strict rules of golf) give me a call on 087 091 7565 no later than 4.30 pm on the Monday before. We like to encourage a random draw for partners (no later than 11.30am), but manipulation is granted for cart sharers and other exceptional circumstances.

A mixed bag from Willie “Two Shirts”

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

by Neil Duncan
Tuesday, April 1, Khao Kheow B & C (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0–21)
1st Peter Davies (14) 39pts
2nd David Gardner (8) 35pts
3rd Dennis Jaycock (20) 35pts
4th Barry Quirck (12) 33pts
B Flight (22-up)
1st Ulrich ‘Willie’ Nachbur (25) 42pts
2nd Jim Fortune (29) 36pts
3rd Peter Mills (24) 34pts
4th David Johnson (23) 34pts
Near Pins: Dennis Jaycock, Owen Walkley, Martin Hayes, Yves Philibert
Long Putt (18th): Peter Davies
Two flights today, there being twenty-two of us in total fooling about with their golf at this ever popular venue, which we are sure to play more frequently now that Sports Day charges have returned. The road? Oh the road … but hopefully nearly made up now.
The average points scored on the day was 29.6.
Thursday, April 3, Plutaluang N & W (White Tees) – Stableford
1st Bruce Lawrence (12) 40pts
2nd Owen Walkley (23) 36pts
3rd Colin Cronin (17) 33pts
4th Paul Smylie (26) 33pts
5th Frank Waterhouse (15) 32pts
Near Pins: Bruce Lawrence, David Gardner, Bob Drumm, Owen Walkley
Long Putt (18th): Owen Walkley

Thursday’ prize winners (L-R): Bruce Lawrence, Willie Nachbur (tightly gripping shirt) and Owen Walkley.

Off we went for our fortnightly visit to Navy and the management committee decided that one division for the sixteen competitors was quite enough.
At the start of the day, with Willie Nachbur’s score on Tuesday in mind, Ian Campbell proposed that any previous winner of the Paradise Bar shirt (for the most golf) who subsequently went on to score 42 points with a blob on the last hole should jolly well give the shirt back! In reply Willie crashed and burned on Thursday, reversing the numbers of his score on Tuesday so that his 24 points won him another shirt. Ha ha!
The average score for the day meanwhile was 30.6 points.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

‘Braziliant’ Santana takes out 2008 Pattaya Triathlon

Aryawat Nuamsaat
Vennie Santana, a 24-year old Brazilian was the crowned the individual Men’s champion at the Pattaya Triathlon 2008 last weekend whilst a Thai trio led by Keerati Sukprasart battled to take the team honours.

Brazilian Vennie Santana was the Men’s individual champion at the 2008 Pattaya Triathlon.
Early last Sunday morning, April 6, the Pattaya Triathlon 2008, organized by Pattaya City in cooperation with the Pattaya Bicycle and Triathlon Club, got under way at the Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya. The start was held in front of the Sea Rescue and Coastal Office with the running and cycling taking the athletes out to Chalerprakiat Public Park and back.
Some 122 athletes consisting of both Thais and foreigners alike, and featuring all sizes and ages, took part in the competition which was divided into two main categories: namely a Singles field with 89 competitors and a Team event featuring 11 teams of three.
The competition got under way with a 1,000-meter swim out into Pattaya Bay from the Sea Rescue Center along a marked out triangular course, a 30km bike ride followed with a tough climb up Pratumnak Hill and a 6km run around Chalerprakiat Public Park and back to the start completed the course.
The singles triathlon was divided into 6 groups consisting of Males under 18 years of age, Male Open, Female Open, Males 30-39 years of age, Males 40-49 years of age, and Males 50 years and older.
At the post race presentation Brazilian Santana received the winner’s trophy and 5,000 Baht for his efforts and he was followed home in the individual event by Anan Duangsopha in second, who received 4,000 Baht, and in third place was Ekawit Suwannukul, who received 3,000 Baht.
Keerati Sukprasart, a rider for the Thai national team, along with Namchai Arunrat and Santi Fungfuang were the winners as expected in the team event, they received 4,000 Baht and a trophy.
The winners of the other categories were as follows: Female Open - Natcha Pgianprasobsuk; Male under 18 years of age - Pan Probut; Male 30-39 years of age - Patrick Robustelli; Male 40-49 years of age - Harald Werner; and Male 50 years and older - Kiattisak Prem-Anan

Santana closes in on the finish line.

The early morning rain did nothing to discourage the iron men and women.

The tough cycling section involved a climb up Pratumnak Hill and back

The male individual winners pose with their trophies with Sittiprab Muangkoom (acting on behalf of the Mayor of Pattaya City) in the foreground.

The race started early morning with a 1km swim around Pattaya Bay.

Mashi cans an ‘Ace’ at Bangpra

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, April 1, Bangpra – Stableford
This is a fine period of the year for the golfers who live here, as the ‘visitors’ thin out and all the golf courses become available for play at reasonable rates. Mind, all is not honey and roses as the temperature is on the rise and it’s taking its toll on the players. This is a time to be wary and ensure that you take on plenty of fluids as you go around and some electrolyte powder is also advised.

Mashi celebrates his ‘hole-in-one.’
The test for Bert’s golfers today was to be Bangpra, a ‘real’ golf course and one at which one of the better players usually wins. Incidentally, the test for next few weeks will be Green Valley, then Burapha, then Khao Kheow, then St Andrews and then Phoenix; it doesn’t get much better.
Early in at Bert’s and a slow bimble down to Bangpra saw us on the first tee in ample time, and as it was clear, off we went. The course was a little dry but the sheer quality of the layout made up for it. This is a quality golf course, but one you have to play well on to have any chance of winning, and on the day quite a few players performed above and beyond their normal level.
Pride of place today goes to one player, as Mashi won two near pins and one of the near pins could not have been closer as it actually went in the hole for a hole in one. Naturally he was really pleased, in fact so pleased was he that he not only bought all his co-players a drink as is custom, he also rang the bell back at the bar. Well done Mashi.
And so to the results and many players had good rounds. The winner with a fine 38 points was the scribe (Derek Brook), ahead of Dick Warberg in second with 37 points. In third was Tom Cotton with 36 points ahead of a three way count back on 33 points that saw Perry McNeely in fourth with Kevin Dunne and Mashi Kenata just losing out. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Dick Warberg, Mick O’Meara, Mashi (2)
Long Putt: Badger (2)

Big Scoring Day at Lakeside

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Tuesday, April 1, and the Pattaya Golf Society banished all thoughts of an April Fool and took to the immaculate course at Royal Lakeside to play a stableford competition on a hot and occasionally overcast day.

Mr. Denis (left) congratulates Paul McNally after as fine golfing month.

As usual a fine course brings out a large field and this time a ladies’ flight complemented the usual two flights, cut at nineteen and under. Scores were destined to be good and the full field average was 33 points.
In the second flight Ray Underwood’s stuttering back nine held him back but his 37 points was still good enough for third place, one behind John Rehm’s 38 point second place finish. The flight winner was “Tuesday Man”, Jim Ferris who crafted an excellent 39 points to repeat his win at Crystal Bay the previous week.
In the top flight David Thomas, Ray Jackson, Bill Quon and Chris Voller all came good with 39 points for a share of second place whilst Austrian golfer, Peter Ditz, ruled the roost with a fine 40 points.
The day’s best score was found in the Ladies’ flight where the straight hitting of Umalai “Ton” Chaysa took the honours with an astounding 43 points. Her score easily eclipsed those of her rivals even though they all produced good cards in themselves.
Surprisingly there were only three birdie 2’s with Ray Underwood and Bob Boyle (two) sharing the spoils.
The Booby Bevy seemed destined for Trevor Lazowski after his catalogue of mistakes, disasters and delays in trying to make the course on time, but it was briefly sidetracked as John Mason provided photographic evidence of a golf ball impaled on a metal fence, but, as it was OB it didn’t count, and the award went to Len Jones for his worst-of-the-day scorecard. Occasionally even the Boss gets to enjoy a beer!
Royal Lakeside tends to get overlooked as a venue because of its location but the trip is always well worth it and a little over an hour in air-conditioned transport is a small price to pay for the pleasure.
“Urban” Golf at Bangpra
When a new company takes over a golf club it is expected that changes will be made to reflect the new owner’s identity. At Greenwood and The Emerald these changes were for the good and were made in an unobtrusive way. At Bangpra however the course is currently a vast building site with huge tracts of bare compressed clay where there was once rough and the lack of any GUR signs makes serious golf there a waste of time.
Such was the case last Thursday, April 3, when the Pattaya Golf Society called to play a combined stableford/pairs event over the parched fairways. Older members cannot remember seeing less water on the course and even the monkeys seemingly stayed away.
Eighteen pairs comprised the event and there was a three-way split for second place with Chris Hardy and Craig Boyd sharing the spoils with Ian Hogg/ Paul Quodomine and David Thomas/Chris Voller, all on 67 points.
Amazingly there was only one sub-par team and that was the Swiss combination of Andy Bardill and John Rehm, their 73 points being mainly due to the impressive 43 point score of the latter.
Craig Boyd managed a brace of birdie 2’s to share the pot with Jim Ferris and Stuart Thompson.
The day had begun badly for Jim Ferris when he missed the bus and an expensive baht bus journey from Pattaya led to him receiving the Booby Bevy by way of compensation.
Bangpra in transition is no treat and as one member later put it, “Century Chonburi was probably the better option for a day’s golf.”
The highlight of the evening was the award of the society’s March “Player of the Month” award to Paul McNally after a sizzling few week’s golf which has set a high standard for others to follow.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Championship Shows the Way

“It was brilliant, I could not ask for anything better,” said Cardiff’s Joe Ledley after scoring his sublime winner against Barnsley at the weekend. “I know how the fans were feeling today and hopefully they enjoyed the win as much as I did. It was the best goal of my career by far and the best moment of my career.”
Not often you hear that kind of statement anymore, is it? How wonderful it is to be reminded that football can provide the highlight of someone’s life. Let’s hope he savours the moment, as Everton are sniffing around the Welsh youngster and before you can say ‘Bentley’ he’ll be headed off to a club that’s primary aim is to finish fourth in the league.
More on the FA Cup later, but before that a quick look at the Champions League. The print deadline doesn’t allow us to cover the fare that’s been served up on Tuesday and Wednesday, but I’m going to do something incredibly daft and look ahead to the semi-finals involving Arsenal or Liverpool against Fenerbahce along with Manchester United versus Barcelona.
At least I hope that’s how it’s all worked out. In reality I’ve little doubt that Chelsea will have beaten Turkey’s most followed club, but if you’re reading this in the knowledge that we’re in for another Champions League boreathon of Liverpool versus Chelsea in the semis – again - you’ll excuse me for hurling myself from the nearest hotel roof and being unavailable for a week or two.
This wasn’t how it was supposed to be. If you’d have told me three years ago that three English teams would be competing in the Champions League semis for two consecutive years I’d have been dancing from the rooftops, not throwing myself from them. But in reality the prospect of English sides facing off against each other, and in particular Liverpool and Chelsea, fills me with horror.
“There are too many defensive teams around, with players passing the ball sideways instead of going for it. I like my players to have fun and attack,” said Fenerbahce’s Brazilian manager Zico the other day. I hope he comes to Chelsea when they eventually sack Avram Grant.
Even Harry Redknapp’s Portsmouth side were playing in their own half on Saturday at Wembley against a team from a lower division. But this wasn’t a matter of choice. Penned in by some silky football from West Brom – a statement I never envisaged myself making during this lifetime – Pompey found themselves up against it for the first 45 minutes before easing to victory with a goal in the second half from Kanu, ironically the man who almost single-handedly saved West Brom’s Premier League status three years ago.
Whilst not overly exciting, the performance from the only remaining top flight side was enough to book a trip back to Wembley in May. West Brom, meanwhile, will surely make an excellent addition to the top division if they can dust themselves down from the defeat and push for promotion, but in a ferocious Championship battle it’s anybody’s guess who’ll be next year’s Premier League whipping boys.
One team who have no such concerns in that department are Barnsley. “It’s different to what we’ve been used to,” said their 37-year-old manager Simon Davey before their semi against Cardiff City. “This will be more like a Championship game.”
The problem is that Barnsley’s Championship form is atrocious. Sure enough, despite beating Liverpool and Chelsea on their way to Wembley, progressing past a slightly less glamorous Cardiff City of their own division proved a step too far. Cardiff, the only club to take the trophy outside of England during its long history, now join Portsmouth for what should be an intriguing final, and suddenly the light-hearted concerns about what happens if a Welsh side qualifies for Europe through winning an English trophy are becoming a lot more serious. “Our president has asked the executive committee to look at the possibility of a wildcard,” Uefa spokesman William Gaillard told BBC Sport.
In the Premier League it was business as usual. Going by previous form I could have predicted that Arsenal would go a goal down before coming back to draw, which is exactly what happened against Liverpool, and again it was another astonishing weekend for the North East. Newcastle and Sunderland both won, whilst Gareth Southgate continues to impress at Middlesbrough, this time guiding his impressive side to a draw with Manchester United. Derby lost once again, and Wigan continued their revitalisation by beating Birmingham.
I reckon it’s all done and dusted in the Premier League. United are simply too good to let things slip at the top, whilst at the other end Bolton and Fulham have proved that they’re more rubbish than their closest rivals. Attention will soon divert towards that promotion race in the Championship to see who’s coming up, but for the moment it’s congratulations to three of their number that did the division proud at the weekend.
No shame
February 23: Martin Taylor sent off for his challenge on Eduardo. “This tackle is not forgivable,” says Arsène Wenger. “People will always use the excuse that the guy is not a dirty player and that he did not mean it. But it is like a guy who kills one time in his life. It is enough. You have a dead person.”
March 29: Arsenal’s Abou Diaby sent off for his challenge on Bolton’s Gretar Steinsson. “Abou says it was completely accidental,” says Wenger. “And in fairness we know what type of player he is - he’s a fair player, and he hasn’t been booked all season.”
Barracks
Peru’s FA say their national side will be monitored by CCTV to stop them being ‘idiots’. Last year players held an orgy in a hotel in Lima, leading to bans and fines for four players. Now all squad overnight meetings will take place at the FA’s Videna headquarters. ‘It will be like a barracks,’ says an FA source. ‘These players hurt us.’
What we had was special
Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan has hit back at comments by former boss Steve Bruce, who claimed the City board put ‘greed above any friendship’ when they asked him to repay an advance image-rights payment he had received when he left to join Wigan. Sullivan told the Birmingham Mail: “I’m deeply hurt and saddened by what Steve has said - and so are the rest of the board. You could argue that it is libellous... It is a shame when you consider the six years we had together at Birmingham.”
Meanwhile Roy Keane will be asking Sunderland for 50 million pounds to strengthen his Sunderland squad before the start of next season. “The summer is an important period for the club if we are going to go on to the next level,” the manager said at the weekend.
That means competing “with the likes of Aston Villa, Blackburn and Spurs. We need at least 40 million to buy four, five or maybe six players to compete at the next level. We need more quality. For us really to compete I would be looking at spending up to 50 million on five or six players. I want to sign top, top players.”
And of course, all the top players will want to head to Sunderland. I think someone’s going to be disappointed this summer, but Keane won’t be alone. Gillingham chairman Paul Scally is desperate to attract Middle Eastern money to Kent to help him build a new stadium. So desperate, in fact, that he is moving his family home to Dubai because of the amount of time he has spent in the country begging for cash.
This weekend
Manchester United and Arsenal on Sunday, and defeat for Arsenal would be the final nail in their coffin. Liverpool play Blackburn earlier in the day, but the one I most fancy this weekend is Newcastle away at Portsmouth. On paper these two have little to play for, but Newcastle are enjoying themselves at the moment and are likely to throw everything at the FA Cup favourites. See you next week.

Mr. Second is now Mr. First

Golf from the Travellers Rest

by Barry Hooper
Regular readers of my reports will know that over the past weeks I have made repeated references to a regular player at the TRGG as “Mr. Second.” I was of course referring to Colin Cronin who kept on coming in second almost every time he played with us.
Well that all has to end because last Saturday at Eastern Star he was Top Man of the day.

“Mr. First” Colin Cronin, the winner at Eastern Star on Saturday.

I had a chance to talk with Colin after his win and asked him what had changed. He told me that he had been off the beer for the past three weeks and maybe that had something to do with his change of form.
Maybe this is a tip for a few of our current ‘off-form’ golfers.
Another player that seems to have been finding form of late is Harvey Samuel. Last Thursday he just missed out on top spot but secured a good second place and on Saturday had a fourth place. Maybe he should take a tip from Colin and cut down on the beer.
Monday, March 31, Emerald - Stableford
A Flight (0-13)
1st Patrick Regan (8) 41pts
2nd Stuart Rogers (11) 38pts
3rd David Hamilton (6) 37pts
B Flight (14-up)
1st Chaten Patel (16) 32pts
2nd Tony Burnett (21) 32pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (15) 30pts
2’s: David Hamilton, Stuart James
Monday, the last day of March and off to Emerald we went.
This can be a tricky course at times but one man, Patrick Regan, mastered it on the day with an impressive forty-one pointer to take the top flight honours. Stuart Rogers was on his shirt tail with second spot at thirty eight and one further back in third was David Hamilton
In the second flight Chaten Patel squeezed in after a count back with Tony Burnett, both on thirty-two points and third spot was also tight with Roger Wilkinson stealing it from Paul Challis, both finishing with thirty apiece.
Tuesday, April 1, Khao Kheow - Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Roy Holmes (8) 37pts
2nd Tony Molloy (11) 37pts
3rd John Pegrum (11) 35pts
B Flight (15-up)
1st David McFeely (19) 41pts
2nd Tony Perry (15) 37pts
3rd Colin Cronin (19) 37pts
2’s: Ray Trembath, Ito Akitoshi
Near Pins: Tony Molloy (2), Larry Simpson, Bill McGarvie
Tuesday April 1st at Khao Kheow and there were no fools to be found. It was a very large turnout considering that we have had many of our regulars return home.
The top division one saw a count back fight for first spot with Roy Holmes just edging it from Tony Molloy, both on thirty-seven. John Pegrum made third spot all his own with thirty-six points.
The second tier had a clear winner in David McFeely. He came home with a forty-one pointer to be four ahead of any of his nearest rivals. For second and third spots it was again a count back decision with Tony Perry edging it over Colin Cronin, both on thirty-seven.
The ‘Golfer of the Month’ award for March was made to Tewin (Poopay) Lamthong back at the Travellers Rest after the awards for the day’s competition.
Thursday, April 3, Phoenix - Stableford
1st Roger Wilkinson (15) 40pts
2nd Harvey Samuel (18) 36pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (9) 35pts
4th John Pegrum (11) 35pts
5th Larry Simpson (9) 35pts
2’s: None
Near Pins: Ray Trembath, Roger Wilkinson
Our third trip of the week was an outing to Phoenix.
It was a single division event with some twenty participants that saw Roger Wilkinson make this his day with an impressive forty-pointer, a full four points up on second place Harvey Samuel. Organiser Fergus Brennan was third after a three-way count back fight with John Pegrum and Larry Simpson, all on thirty-five.
Only two near pins on the day to Roger Wilkinson and Ray Trembath and no 2’s so it was carried over to next week’s outing to Plutaluang.
Saturday, April 5, Eastern Star (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Colin Cronin (18) 38pts
2nd Jack Mooney (13) 37pts
3rd Bill McGarvie (12) 36pts
4th Harvey Samuel (18) 35pts
5th Jack Robertson (22) 33pts
Near Pins: None
2’s: Roger Wilkinson
Saturday arrived and saw us take our regular weekend visit to Eastern Star. Numbers were down mainly because of the exodus of players going back home. Some faces have returned but not all were able to come out today, mainly due to having to catch up on sleep.
The course was in fair condition, however many of the greens had been heavily sanded and not to the liking of a lot of the players.
Our title man, “Mr. First” Colin Cronin, made it his day with a fine thirty-eight point return and first place. Jack Mooney was second with thirty-seven points and he had only returned to Thailand two days prior but had remembered this time to bring his clubs with him. Obviously they were working well on the day. Third place with thirty-six points was Bill McGarvie who I must say is a new name to me and Harvey Samuel was forth with thirty-five.
Reminder - If anyone is interested in golfing with the “Travellers Rest” we play every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at 7:45 a.m. for breakfast and transportation and new players are always made to feel welcome. Just call Tewin on 086 056 7019 for further information.

Geoff Stubbs departs on a high note after double win

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

Monday, March 31, Plutaluang - Stableford
A different combination than normal with the North and South courses being selected due to their superior condition by a couple of our regular caddies. With dark clouds hovering in the distance, many thought we would be in for a wet spell at some time during the round, but we were lucky today.
In the stableford competition Geoff Stubbs won the premier flight with 40 points, closely followed by Bruce Lawrence two points behind in second while Joe Kubon with 37 points beat Jean Morel also by two to win the second division.
John Aylott birdied the tough 7th on the South course for the only two of the day.
Wednesday, May 2, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A surprising 30 players were out today for our monthly medal and a there were quite a few puzzled faces on arrival when they found the green fee and caddie fee to be dearer now than in the high season.
After 40 points on Monday and his last game with us for a few months, in form Geoff Stubbs came home with a net 67 for the division one win. Keith Hector took second on net 70 and Jim Lane was in third with a net 71 after beating Kermit on count back.
In division two a net 67 secured first place for Cully Monks, beating Russell Benson into second by a clear 4 shots. Kari Aarnio took third place with a net 72.
Russell Benson on the 2nd and Mam Morel on the 12th both recorded birdie 2’s to share the second division triple rollover pot. There were no 2’s in the top flight.
Near pins went to Jim Lane, Harry Riley, Howard Stanley, Dave Stockman, Russell Benson, Gordon Everingham, Ken Foster and Mam Morel.
Today’s outing was also the first game of the ‘Player of the Month’ competition, where the top six places in each division are awarded points (similar to the Grand Prix) and a player’s best six points rounds of the month are added together to establish a winner.
The ladies tipple was awarded today to Ken Foster after his tee shot on the 16th hole hit a nearest the pin marker on the green and was deflected towards the flag and he ended up winning the prize.
After discussions with the management regarding I.P.G.C. bookings on Wednesday’s Jomtien Golf have cancelled the next three months schedule at Green Valley.
Friday, May 4, Eastern Star – Stableford
Mikael Andersson won division one today with 39 points whilst Ted Morris was second, one point behind on 36. Ken Foster beat Russell Benson on a back nine count back of 20/18 for first pace in division two after they both finished with 33 points.
Mikael also shared the division one rollover 2’s pot with Howard Stanley, who was playing his last game with us for a while. Bon Voyage also to Jill Stanley. There were no 2’s in the second division.
Note: Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Siam Cats, Soi 5 Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 8.30 for a 10.00 a.m. tee off. Please sign up in the bar or call Glyn on 086 837 5464.

The Square Ring: by Wilford James John “Jeeves” Waterford III

Lordship indisposed
His Lordship has been in Pattaya only two weeks and has already fallen on hard times. He claims the reason for the slide from the mountain of semi-greatness is his association with Sir Frog, The Lord of Pattaya and Monkey House Fred. To hear him tell it they have dragged him kicking and screaming down the primrose path. I politely reminded him that, “you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink.” The subtleties of life sometime escape His Lordship.
Before his fall from grace the Lord of the Manor was able to view on Thai TV the WBA super-bantam eliminator between Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym (33-1) and Somsak Sithchatchawal (56-2). Poonsawat wore down a weakening Sithchatchawal, scoring a TKO in round 11. For Sithchatchawal it was one of those days: He didn’t make the weight so a win would not have given him a “maybe” title shot, he lost on his home turf, and then he went to the hospital after the fight.
As it stands now Poonsawat maybe gets a shot at Celestino Caballero for the WBA title. Somsak got a TKO over Caballero in 06 so maybe Thailand will have a world champion. And then maybe pigs will also be flying.
King Arthur wins
Sir Frog is touting the fighting prowess of IBF middleweight champion King Arthur Abraham as maybe the next “One.” Received an e-mail questioning why The Frog is now “Sir Frog”? Whilst having cooling beverages in Pattaya, His Lordship was informed by said Frog that any professional boxer that has more than 500 rounds in the ring deserves to be called “Sir.” His Lordship agrees.
Now back to King Arthur. The rap on him is that as the IBF middleweight champion he has fought mostly the “usual Euro trash” that makes up the division. The latest, who became win 26, was Elvin Ayala (18-3). Ayala was dropped for good with 28 seconds to go in the last round. T’was “good” for King Arthur and not so “good” for Ayala.
“Arthur will fight in the USA on June 21,” his manager said afterwards. “I would have loved to reveal the opponent tonight but the contracts have yet to be signed. All I can say is that it will be a true highlight,” he added
The opponent was to have been Edison Miranda (30-2) who Arthur has already beaten once. The IBF has stepped in informing Arthur, by mail, that he must fight IBF #4 Giovanni Lorenzo. Why #4 and not 1,2 or 3? Good question. The IBF has no #1 or #2 and #3 is Sebastian Sylvester (28-2) who fights on Saturday night against old warhorse Javier Castillejo (62-7).
At 26-0 with 18 KO’s Lorenzo’s record looks good but upon further review he’s really not fought anyone even close to world class. This would be a fight most boxing fans will never yearn to see. So forget the “true highlight hype” of an overzealous manager. After a win against Lorenzo? Maybe a meeting early next year with Kelly Pavlik when King Arthur will actually be tested.
During a press conference for his title defense against Gary Lockett on June 7, Pavlik stunned the mostly useless reporters in attendance by saying, “I definitely want to go out with a bang. This is probably going to be my last fight. I know I said I wanted to defend my title numerous times, but you have to do what you have to do and I think I’m going to go into retirement after this fight.”
A professional journalist then asked why he was retiring? “Because it’s April 1st,” came the reply. Way to go Kelly!
Amir Golden …again
The Bolton Arena was the sight of Amir Khan’s latest conquest. Armir ran his string to 17 wins with a 7th round TKO of Martin Kristjansen, now 19-2-3. The stoppage came after Kristjansen hit the deck 3 times in that round.
The preflight hype was about what one would expect: “Amir Khan is in for a nasty surprise when he meets me,” Kridtjansen might have and almost did say. What he actually said was, “Khan is saying that this will be the easiest fight of his career and if he believes that then he is going to be in for a big surprise on the night. I’ve watched his last three fights and I’m not impressed with him. He is strong and fast but is still young and does not have the experience that I have and I will expose him. My friend Mikkel Kessler lost to Joe Calzaghe in November, but I’ll be making up for that when I defeat Khan.”
Khan meanwhile was happy to let his fists do the talking.
As both Calzaghe and Kessler were mentioned in writing about Amir Khan, I can use a technique called a “segue,” which is a clever way of leading from one paragraph to another with a seamless transition. The trick was taught to me by His Lordship who paid big money to learn it in a book called “Writing Boxing for Dummies by a Dummy.”
Mikkel Kessler, as most now know lost to Joe Calzaghe last November. Since then Kessler has kept a low profile, except when he visited with Sir Frog in Pattaya. He indicated at the time that he was waiting for a “big” fight.
Meanwhile Anthony Mundine, the WBA super middleweight champion, hasn’t made the “required mandatory defense” in 13 months. Mundine decided that he would defend the WBA crown against Sam Soliman on May 28. The problem was that no one in the Mundine camp talked with, notified or conversed with the WBA. Last week the WBA not only did not sanction Mundine’s defense against Soliman, who Mundine has beaten twice already, but they named Mikkel Kessler as the “official challenger.”
Not a ‘Thrilla in Manila’ for Thai
Prior to last Saturday night’s fight in Manila, champion Gerry Penalosa said, “I have plan A, Plan B and Plan C for this fight. I don’t think my opponent has that kind of preparation. I know that Sor Vorapin is hungry and is determined to exact payback but I hate losing and I don’t want to lose again. There is no way I will lose.”
Fighting for the WBO 118lb title, Peñalosa only needed Plan “A”. That was to be aggressive from the start, throw lots of punches and knockout out Vorapin. He got it done in 8. When the two fought in 2000 for a WBC title, Penalosa KO’d Vorapin in 6. Vorapin had won 32 of 36 since then but as pointed out by TSR his fights lacked any quality.
TSR favorite, Cousin Bruce MacTavish, had a short night of it when he refereed a supporting bout between Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista (25-1) and Genaro Camargo (16-4). Camargo was down twice in round 1 and stopped at 57 seconds of round 2. Cousin Bruce got a full night’s pay for 3:37 worth of work. Heck of a deal.
Next week in Boxing
Very big week in boxing around the world in the next few days. On Sunday the spotlight should be on The Boardwalk in Atlantic City as WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto goes for his 32nd win in a row.
His opponent isn’t just “mash and peas” as Mum use to say. Alfonso Gomez is 18-3-2 with his last two wins of the marquee variety beating Arturo Gatti and Ben Tackie. Granted they weren’t at their primes but a win is still a win.
Gomez’ only chance is to land a power shot to Cotto’s suspect jaw but with only 8 KO’s from 18 wins that may not do the job. The Cotto body attack takes the heart out of a lot of boxers. After that it’s Ricardo “The Clown” Mayorga who’s 3-3 since ’03 for Cotto. Cotto and his promoter “BS” Bob Arum have been successful in keeping away from big punchers.
In Tampa Florida at The St. Pete Times Forum Arena it’s an all light-heavyweight card. First up will be Chad Dawson (25-0) vs. Glen Johnson (47-11-2) for WBC light-heavy title. Dawson claims, “ I’m gonna be on my ‘A’ game, he’s gonna be on his ‘A’ game...it’s going to be a war!”
Johnson’s riposte? “I’m going to clean up the division starting April 12. I’m looking forward to the challenge!” Glen Johnson is a particular favorite of His Lordship’s as a boxer that will go anywhere, at anytime to fight anyone.
On the same card Antonio Tarver (26-4) will fight Clinton Woods (41-3) for the IBF light-heavy crown. “I’m coming to do what I do and that’s win...I’m ready for Clinton Woods...I have one mission in mind: to unify the light-heavyweight division,” predicts the always cocky Tarver.
Woods is a little more low-key. “I’m going to beat him on Saturday...it’s going to be the greatest win by a British light-heavyweight!”
Jeeves Jives
“OR” reports that the late Art Aragon was a very successful bail bondsman after his boxing career ended. “OR” remembers that Aragon’s business motto was: “We’ll get you out of jail no matter how long it takes.”
Another reader, who met Aragon last year, thought that maybe he had a part in the Budd Schulberg movie “The Harder They Fall.” The movie was a not too thinly disguised saga of the career of Primo Carnera (89-14). It starred Humphrey Bogart and Rod Steiger with boxers Max Baer and Jersey Joe Walcott playing roles. No mention of Aragon although he was pals with some movie folks. In a “what the heck moment,” Max Baer defeated Primo Carnera for the heavyweight title on June 14, 1934 via an 11th round TKO.
E-mail in from William with regard to former Nevada Executive Director Marc Ratner.
“He was the best in the boxing biz and him leaving the commission was a blow to all of us who had worked with him at one time or another. He was always a gentleman in every sense. The UFC got him - he had to do something for himself for a change. God bless him. Referee Elmo Adolph fits right in with that kind of company - both awesome men to have had the pleasure of knowing.”
Also received a communication from His Lordship: he wrote that he “just couldn’t refuse” the very generous offer of the Roxy Bar to come out of darts retirement and help lead the team to a Thursday night league championship. His outstanding play included saving a pairs match with Swedish International player Stefan Lord, known as the Lord of Pattaya, with a “nifty” one-dart check at 40.
Noi - forget the lager dear and bring me something a lot stronger. Then crank up the “Best of George Michael” CD, light my cigar and leave me alone.

Elias shoots best of the day at Greenwood

PSC golf from the Café Kronborg

by Derek Brook
Monday March 31, Eastern Star - Stableford
With the Admiral on annual leave to his homeland it was left to the backup crew to steer the ship for this Monday’s stableford competition.

Elias Magnuson recorded a fine 41 points at Greenwood last Thursday.

Eastern Star was the course and it has to be said that when the wind gets up at this venue, most of us mortal golfers ‘get the wind up’ as well, especially when confronted with the dreaded OB on one side of the fairway and the equally intimidating ‘Nam’ on the other.
Add to that the difficult undulating greens and awkward pin positions and the stage is set for a testing day of golf for all, and understandably on this occasion it was reflected in the scores.
With no technical prizes it was decided to give four prizes in each flight with Martin Topham taking the B flight (31 pts) on count back from Neil Allison and Kevin Dinan in second and third respectively. In fourth place with 29 points was the pleasantly surprised Neil Allison.
In the A flight Clive Robinson (35 pts) was the winner over Kris Helagason (32 pts) in second with the ever consistent Mashi (30 pts) taking third ahead of another hardy competitor, the effervescent Ebrehim (28 pts) in fourth.
I guess the moral here is that no matter how tough it can be on the golf course some days, ‘never give up’ and like Neil and Ebrahim you may just get a pleasant surprise.
Thursday, April 3, Greenwood - Stableford
As mentioned above, The Admiral was away so there was an atmosphere of freedom at the Cafe Kronborg as we walked in. However, that was soon knocked on the head as we realised that no one had booked the minibus. A few frantic calls later and not only did Boon turn up, but Tim realised his phone needed a new battery. You can’t get good staff these days can you? Mind, half an apple is better than none.
So we actually got away on time, and had a nice drive up to Greenwood as the road up there seems to be getting better day-by-day.
Booked in and waiting on the first tee, we were told the test was to be the B & C Nines. These are the outer ones, still it is only a few hundred yards, and all the Nines here are a good test.
The courses at present here are not in the pristine condition of a couple of months ago as they, the ‘management’, are trying to remove unwanted patches and so much of the layout is under repair. Still it is a fair test of golf.
This was a windy, hot day, on a course undergoing a fair amount of repair work, so good scores were going to be at a premium.
In the A Flight 0 to 17, the winner, and with the best score of the day by far, was Elias Magnuson with 41 points. Far back in second place was Koji Yamada with 34 points ahead of a count back on 33 points that saw Kevin Dunne in third and Pierre Cerre just losing out.
In the B Flight the winner was Graham Buckingham with a fine 36 points ahead of a count back for second on 35 points that saw Art Bailey in second and Neil Allison in third. T.T.F.N.

Ernie Hill has Gross 69

No fooling around for ‘Fast Eddie’

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Fast Eddie Kristianson and Walter Straub: first and second
at Pattaya County Club last Tuesday, April 1.

by Herbert Ishinaga
New month, new winner – and it was April Fool’s Day, the 1st of April. Fast Eddie Kristianson made the rest of the field look like fools as he won by 5 strokes. Eddie was hitting his drives long and straight and his putts were dropping. He beat the other players by a street with a score of 40 points.
Coming in second was Walter Straub with 35 points. He was tied with Bob Benda, also at 35 and the count went down to the last three holes where Walter just edged it. The rest of the golfers had mediocre rounds and faded away as the day went on.

Ooy bowls league leading 655 series