St Andrews: one of the joys of ‘Low Season’

PSC golf from Tropical Berts

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 8, St Andrews – Stableford
Happy days, and the ‘Low Season’ is here with all the joys of playing some great courses at great prices. So where do we start, well my group picked St Andrews as their most missed course over the High Season, so off we went to see if it lived up to the memory of last year’s great rounds.
We booked in quickly and went off to the first tee to find it was empty and we could get away. Stood on the first tee box it was quite impressive to look down the manicured fairway and see all the trouble awaiting an errant drive. This course does not forgive the player who is having a bad day, and the ‘management’ recommends you do not play if your handicap is over 18.
I have found that this is, in my opinion, a bit of a sales gimmick. High handicappers do not seem to hit the ball far enough to get into serious trouble, and generally go around quite happily. Mind, I suppose it is really a course for the better players.
Anyway, today it was in fine condition, with manicured fairways, fast tricky greens and punishing rough. Oh, and they even supplied a strong wind to really test the players, and tested they were. But as said, all the players really enjoyed the round and some of our higher handicappers were in with a shout at the end, while some of the ‘stars’ had a dreadful day but still enjoyed the challenge.
Back at Bert’s the winners were announced and in first place, and homeward bound, was Brian Downey with a fine 36 points ahead of Perry McNeely in second with 35 points. So till next week and Phoenix, T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Mashi Kenata, Perry McNeely, Brian Downey, Dick Warberg
Long Putt: John Sotorp, Dick Warberg

PJ cans an Ace at Emerald

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, May 5, Emerald - Stableford
1st Alan Sullivan (16) 41pts
2nd John McDonald (6) 34pts
3rd Colin Stokes (24) 29pts
With a late change of venue because of yet another holiday and price hike by some golf courses, The Bunker Boy’s decided to play a Stableford competition at the Emerald, which is always good value for money even with a slight increase for the holiday.

PJ Redmond scored a hole-in-one at The Emerald on Friday.

And what a good choice of course it was for Alan Sullivan! Alan came into the clubhouse with 41 points to win by miles from John McDonald, who scored 34 points, and third place went to Colin Stokes who beat William Macey on a count back with 29 points each.
Alan Sullivan also won a near pin prize as did Tony Robbins and the last two went to John McDonald.
Wednesday, May 7, Crystal Bay – Stableford
Playing stableford again, Alan Sullivan had another good round on the Wednesday but it wasn’t good enough as he could only get second place with 37 points. Paul Smith took the honours with 40 points (gross 71 – net 68) and William Macey took third place with 35 points.
William also won two near pin prizes with Paul Smith taking the other two.
Friday, May 9, Emerald - Stableford
A Flight
1st Ron Ryan (16) 40pts
2nd Alan Sullivan (16) 35pts
3rd Roger Privett (15) 34pts
B Flight
1st Paul Davies (26) 37pts
2nd PJ Redmond (19) 35pts
3rd Mick Benton (20) 34pts
With a bigger than expected field today and playing stableford again due to popular demand, Ron Ryan had the best score of the day to win the A Flight with 40 points. Alan Sullivan took second place with 35 points and Roger Privett came third with 34 points.
The B Flight was a bit closer with 37 points being enough to win, that being scored by Paul Davies who was playing after a long absence. Second place went to PJ Redmond with 35 points and this included a splendid hole in one on the 131 yard par three 15th hole that was all the more remarkable due to the hole position being on the upper level and out of sight behind a bush. It was the caddies who told PJ he had a hole in one with all their shouting and screaming as they were standing to the side and had a good view of the hole.
Third place in the B Flight went to Mick Benton with 34 points who beat Stan Watkins on a count back.
Only three par three greens were hit and obviously PJ won one of them, the other two going to Mike Whiting and Stan Watkins.

A pleasant stroll at Phoenix

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, April 6, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean (White Tees) - Stableford
We all look forward to the start of ‘Sports Days’ at Phoenix because quite simply this venue is a class act and we all look forward to our next visit.
The scoring was close at the top with Paul Barker (H/C 13) claiming first spot with 32 points after a count back with Paul Smylie (H/C 25). Third and fourth places went to Bob Drumm (H/C 10) and Doug Carysforth (H/C) 24 with 31 and 30 points respectively.
The scribe (Neil Duncan), Paul Smylie and Bob Drumm won near pin prizes whilst Keith Hodges had the longest first putt on the 18th green.
The average score for the 14 cards returned was 28.8 points.
Thursday, May 8, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0–20)
1st Willie Nachbur (20) 33pts
2nd Jim Walton (20) 31pts
3rd David Gardner (7) 31pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Keith Hodges (22) 34pts
2nd Ian Campbell (21) 30pts
3rd Jim Fortune (27) 28pts
Sixteen players elected for a two-division format this day with the results listed on the left.
Neil Duncan and Bob Drumm picked up the only two near pins of the day whilst Ian Campbell again (yawn, yawn, boring, boring) snuck off with longest first putt on the 18th green.
The average score for the 13 cards returned was 26.8 points. Pat Roache secured the Paradise Bar golf shirt for the most golf.
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 0895110575.

JTB is legitimate at Green Valley

IPGC golf from Donovan’s

Monday, May 5, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Mike Craighead (19) 35pts
2nd Steve Mascari (23) 33pts
In a theme that was to be common on the week, The Mechanic edged the President by a couple.
Thursday, May 8, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Mike Craighead (19) 35pts
2nd Steve Mascari (23) 33pts
Scary, but it was a case of Monday revisited.
Saturday, May 10, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kris Kritsanajootha (6) 38pts
2nd Klaus Shackt (10) 38pts
B Flight
1st John “JTB” Dearden (6) 41pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (16) 38pts
Ladies Flight
1st Gib Rykke (36) 34pts
There is our ‘Title Guy’ making the winning bid for MoW with his B Flight winning 41 points. Monsieur Pierre had a solid 38 to take the second step in the junior flight.
Kris Krits did the unlikely as he out counted the Volkscomputer on the backside of Green Valley to take the top step in the premier flight. The irony of the week is that there was nary a 2!

Stuart Gordon claims first ‘Major’ title?

Phoenix Tuesday golf from Toy’s Music Bar

Mike Gerrard
Tuesday, May 6, Monthly Medal
I am back to my usual stupid self after a month of trying to shake off the dreaded flu bug. It’s amazing how that illness befuddles the brain. It was so hard to think of something to report on.
Hence the title of Stuart Gordon claims the first major title?  Well it is for our little group.
However our little group grew to 8 players today. 40% of our intended goal for the future. As they say “From little acorns do mighty oaks grow”
We only charge 100 baht entrance fee for the comp and the money is shared out to make sure there will never be any pot hunters joining us. Good social fun, but to the strict rules of golf is our aim.
Today we were playing the Mountain and Ocean course (whilst the Lakes is undergoing a much needed rest and repair)
It was also nice to have clear blue skies, with a slight breeze from the sea to keep us a little cool. No nasty storm clouds today.
We also thought that, with the course being quite busy today (seems some tourists have heard it is still quite good here during low season) we would have a very slow round. None of it at all: A nice regular pace was enjoyed by everyone.
It was noticable that the management of Phoenix had moved the white tee on Mountain 9 hole back to its rightful place, before the ditch, rather than over it (which is the yellow tee placement). Well done.
This was our first monthly medal/mug playing stroke play from white tees and Theo and Toy, our hosts from the Music Bar in Soi Chaiyapreuk had kindly donated the ‘huge’ trophy for the winner, who on this occasion was Stuart Gordon, returning a net 70, with the steady Scot, Matt Anderson claiming second place with a net 71 and ‘good old’ Gary Blackburn getting his stake money back in third with a net 75.
Gary is normally in the frame most weeks and with him going back to ‘dear old Blighty’ for a spell it should leave a few places for others. Bon voyage Gary, safe trip.
Notable shots of the day, came from Terry Vicary who sunk a huge 40 footer on the last to save himself and me from losing, and a super birdie on Ocean 3 from Matt Anderson: after a not so long tee shot he sent his second onto the green and sunk a long putt. Up till then he had been quite upset at his play. What a huge grin he had after that birdie. Amazing how one shot can make you feel good. Not so for me today! Never mind, maybe next time.
We shall hold a monthly medal every first Tuesday of the month, playing from white tees. Other weeks we will run a stableford competition from white tees.
Most weeks will be 12 Noon start, but take note that Tuesday, May 20 our start time will be 10.48am.

‘Girls on top’ at Khao Kheow

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, May 5, Burapha - Stableford
This was Jack’s birthday bash and contrary to what Capt’ Bob says, he hasn’t reached 60 … yet! The event was well supported in spite of the holiday rates with some 37 Outbackers taking part.
The field was split into three divisions and played from the blue tees on the A & B nines. The overall winner was awarded the Outbacker Birthday Cup (yet to be purchased) and that went to Badger (Phil Barnsley), with a fine 36 points (20 on the back nine).
Elsewhere, the scores were pretty low with Rosco taking Div B with 31 pts and the surprise winner of Div C, Barry Rothberg with 33 pts.
The Outbacker Birthday Cup was inspired by Frank O’Neill and can be played for anytime of the year, whenever an Outbacker wishes to sponsor his or her birthday. A sponsor and winners board will be erected at the bar in the very near future. Please contact Bob or Jack if you wish to celebrate your birthday with fellow golfers.
Div A (0-15)
12 players
1st Roger Ison (9) 36pts
2nd May Larose (15) 35pts
3rd Paul (9) 34pts
4th Steve Plant (15) 33pts
Div B (16-19)
9 players
1st Rosco Langoulant (17) 31pts
2nd Dennis Persson (16) 31pts
3rd David Headington (17) 30pts
4th Alan Bishop (16) 29pts
Div C (20+)
15 Players
1st Barry Rothberg (20) 33pts
2nd John Day (24) 33pts
3rd Trudy Chadbourn (24) 30pts
4th John Stafford (20) 29pts
2’s: May Larose, Rosco and Rob Ford
Tuesday, May 6, Phoenix - Stableford
Twelve Outbackers made the early start this week to play this wonderful course. It is truly a beautiful course this time of the year and there is no doubt, early is the time to play it. Another brisk walk and back by 12.30, that’s golf at it’s best.
The scores were not the greatest but Nick ‘nicked it’ from Norm on count-back and Nigel Cannon filled the third slot with a creditable 32 points.
12 players
1st Nick Falconer (13) 34pts
2nd Norm Martin (23) 34pts
3rd Nigel Cannon (24) 32pts
2’s: Nick Falconer & Joachim 
Wednesday, May 7, Khao Kheow
Kathy Doody & Mam Morel saw off the men in both divisions at Khao Kheow. The result, of course, re-ignited the usual grumbles about ladies playing in the same divisions as the men. However, although Kathy took Div A by three, she did not beat her handicap and had any of her male competitors shot their handicap, they would have won! Come on guys, you’ll just have to play better and stop whinging!
Mam played extremely well for her 38 points and fully deserved the win.
B & C nines are rated at 68.6 for the ladies with a slope of 116 from the red tee, whilst the yellow tee for the men is rated at 70.5 with a slope of 119. Perhaps the whingers would like two courtesy shots!
Div A (0-19)
14 players
1st Kathy Doody (19) 35pts
2nd Dennis Persson (16) 32pts
3rd Sugar Ray Hanford (16) 31pts
Div B (20+)
12 players
1st Mam Morel (21) 38pts
2nd Cambell Potts (20) 34pts
3rd Geoff Doody (21) 30pts
2’s: Mike Jackson, Geoff Doody
Friday, May 9, Plutaluang - Stableford
On we went, down south to the Navy course singing Polly Wolly “Doody” all the day. Kathy & Geoff Doody took control of the B division playing the South & East courses. On top of their success today, they have, between them this week collected another win, a third place and two ‘2s’. Apparently Geoff also played some pretty good stuff at Green Valley on Sunday.
The A division went to one of Capt’ Bob’s Aussie mates, Ian Moore, who had literally just arrived hot foot from the airport. Strangely enough, since the taxi had to wait for him to play, the driver played as well and came fourth. Well played Rang!
Bob 3 was also here on a brief visit and played well for his 37 points and welcome back to Harvey who took third with a steady 36.
Div A (0-17)
14 players
1st Ian Moore (4) 38pts
2nd Bob Van Mol (11) 37pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (17) 36pts
4th Rang (16) 34pts
Div B (18+)
16 players
1st Geoff Doody (21) 37pts
2nd Kathy Doody (19) 37pts
3rd Brian Cooke (18) 31pts
4th Bruce McAdam (20) 31pts
2’s: Dennis Persson, Ian Moore, Geoff Doody
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474.
Now we have our own minibus and have started regular Pattaya pickups on our golf days.
Please watch out for our new Tuesday (Sport Day 950 Baht incl Caddie) early bird slot at Phoenix, approx 8am tee off for the next six weeks. Limited to 20 players only, known as the TOOs (Twenty Outbackers Only). Everybody welcome but please get your name down early.
More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com. Our Bus Trip this month is to Kiarti Thanee on Weds. May 28 and don’t forget the complimentary food back at the bar afterwards.
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]

Two for the price of one

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, April 28, Greenwood - Stableford
1st Barry Winton 39pts
2nd Roar Berger 37pts
3rd Phil Groves 36pts
4th Russell Exley 36pts
2’s: Barry Winton (Div.1)
Wednesday, April 30, Phoenix - 2 Person Scramble Stableford
1st Russell Exley & La Keith 50pts
2nd Al Keith & Alan Griffiths 46pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer & B.J. Smith 44pts
Friday, May 2, Phoenix – Stroke play
1st Tony Barritt net 66
2nd Russell Exley net 69
3rd La Keith net 70
4th Ian Grout net 72
5th Trevor Schirmer net 72
Tony Barritt shot his best round in Thailand and played some of the best golf of his new life in shooting a gross 77 to take top spot on the day.
Tony Barritt had the only ‘2’ in the first division and Cap’n Chris Knapp swept up the multi roll over in the second division alone.
Michael Contoni and Ian Grout were welcomed back by The Cap’n.
Monday, May 5, The Emerald – Stableford (Day 1 Eclectic)
1st Barry Winton 39pts
2nd Russell Exley 34pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer 32pts
Cap’n Chris welcomed back Peter Carroll, Bubbles Davies and Peter Sumner in the continued absence of The Doc now diagnosed with Dengue Fever and in hospital.
Wednesday, May 7, Phoenix - Stableford
1st Shane Heavey 36pts
2nd Glyn Nicholas 35pts
3rd Martin Grimoldby 35pts
4th Roar Berger 35pts
2’s: Geoff Picken and Glyn Nicholas (Div.2)
At the same time as the stableford competition was being played, the inaugural match in the International Pattaya Matchplay League was being played against Lewiinski’s by a different group of players. The result of this was a 4-all tie with Russell Exley having to sink a 10-footer on the last to win his match and halve the overall result as the scores stood at 3 to 4 in Lewiinski’s favour. This was a sterling effort by ‘the Rock’ and much appreciated by the rest of the team.
(See Lewiinski’s golf report for the full scorecard).
Friday, May 9, The Emerald – Stableford  (Day 2 Eclectic)
1st Trevor Schirmer 39pts
2nd Peter Sumner 39pts
3rd Shane Heavey 36pts
4th Orathai Winton 36pts
2-Day Eclectic
1st Trevor Schirmer 44pts
2nd Russell Exley 43pts
3rd Peter Sumner 43pts
2’s: Peter Sumner (Div.1)
Now back to something like normal health, The Doc presented the prizes after welcoming back Del Bailey. He also thanked all the members that stood in for him during his absence and congratulated the team on a fine effort in the Match Play League and looked forward to the next match against Jomtiem Golf on Monday, May 12 at Green Valley.

Pattaya 10’s serve up champagne rugby on ‘dry’ weekend

Raimon Land Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament 2008

The weekend of May 3-4 saw sixteen rugby teams from all over Thailand and other parts of the world descend on Pattaya for the ninth running of the Chris Kays Memorial 10’s Rugby Tournament. The setting was again at The Horseshoe Point Resort, which was in perfect condition.
Raimon Land were once again the principal sponsors of the tournament and everything kicked off in great style at their Northpoint Development with one of Raimon Land’s now world renowned parties, held in conjunction with the sailors here for the Top of The Gulf Regatta.
Despite the fact that due to local elections there was a forecast of a “dry” weekend, the tone was set for the whole weekend and there wasn’t a dry throat in the place!! Our hosts at Horseshoe Point had done a great job and the organizers had oiled all the necessary wheels so the tournaments progressed smoothly from start to finish.
For the first time ever a junior section was introduced and an Under 18 tournament was very hotly contested with teams from Bangkok and the provinces battling the local boys from Regents School (a detailed report on this tournament will appear in next week’s Pattaya Mail).
This year’s main tournament was to be contested by teams with a very strong local and academic bias as there were no less than five university teams in the field, some tournament newcomers and many old friends. The Thai Barbarians, who were the champions in 2006 returned after a one year hiatus and there was strong representation from the expatriate teams in Bangkok.
We also welcomed back the boys from Bognor RFC in the guise of “ Werthers Originals “ led by the mighty Steve Worthington, who celebrated his 40th birthday during the tournament. Another new/old side were the Red Dot Rebels from Singapore who certainly won all the awards for their original and highly coloured hairstyles and were fine performers on the field. We also had a pick-up side formed mainly by ex Australian Navy personnel combined with Panthers, “The Buccaneers.”
The quality of the rugby was of the highest level throughout and there were some very special displays during the weekend. All likely protagonists assembled at Horseshoe Point at 9:30 am on the Saturday morning and the organizers tent was besieged by team captains anxious to know when would be their turn to take to the lush turf of Horseshoe Point.
Unflappable as ever tournament organizer Graham Macdonald with his dour assistant Wayne “ Blowfly “ Oganoski soon had everything sorted out and play commenced under the control of David Viccars and his merry band of referees, including Peter Tann and Dave Smith from Hong Kong, Bruce Birchall from U. K., Frikkie Van Wyk from South Africa and of course our contingent of referees from the Thailand Rugby Union, Khun Bancha and Khun Chaiyan.
The sixteen teams were divided into 4 groups and Saturday’s games were played in a round-robin format to determine the ranking for the various tournaments. Conditions were perfect and hard and fast running rugby was the order of the day.
There were strong performances from the Southerners Gold, the British Club and the Thai Barbarians with Werthers Originals and the Red Dot Rebels threatening to gatecrash the cup party. There were also strong performances from the Bangkok Japanese and the Young Bangers to qualify for the cup quarter finals.
After a hard days play, cooling off in the pool was obligatory and due to the election restrictions we dispensed with the traditional Quaic and a huge party was put on by the “ Fat Landlord” of Jamesons.
Tired limbs were anointed and strapped as the quest for Cup, Plate and Bowl honours got under way on Sunday morning. Again there were some superb performances and some very close encounters with not a few surprises.
The Cup quarter finals saw some very good and hard games and eventually Thai Barbarians, Young Bangers, The British Club and Southerners Gold progressed to the semi finals, which arguably produced the finest rugby of all with Southerners Gold overcoming the Young Bangers in a very hard and tense match that went right down to the wire. The British Club fought gallantly against the resurgent Thai Barbarians, who were coming on to their game at just the right time. The British Club finally capitulated and this meant a repeat of the 2006 final between those old foes Southerners Gold and the Thai Barbarians.
It was an absolutely cracking final in which youth and superior fitness eventually triumphed over age and experience. The Thai Barbarians recaptured the title in style narrowly winning a hotly contested final 14-7.
In the Plate it was obvious that both of the foreign sides Werthers Originals and the Red Dot Rebels would set the pace however Kasetsart University and the Buccaneers had other ideas and there were some very closely fought encounters.
The overseas visitors did prevail and we saw a cracking final which in an exact reversal of the Cup Final saw age and experience win out over youthful exuberance, fitness and outrageous hair styles! Werthers Originals giving Steve a wonderful birthday present by winning the Plate.
The competition for the Bowl was by contrast much easier than last year’s marathon, which probably helped the home team led by that wiley old campaigner Eoin Quirke to manage his meager resources and squeeze by ABAC/ Burapha in a tight semi final and battle to the Bowl final.
In a pulsating final against Sarakham University, the experience and bulk of the hosts saw them home to win a very tight game with a late converted try. The Panthers had finally won a trophy.
After the final whistle everybody crashed into the pool and the presentations were made to all trophy winners by Jim Howard the Chairman of Pattaya Panthers RFC and Henri Young the Marketing Director of Raimon Land. Ray and Lin Kays (Chris’ parents) were also on hand to assist and Ray presented the prestigious Chris Kays Award, for the person contributing most to the tournament on and off the field, to the Panthers own Paul Crouch, who on the Sunday played a phenomenal 9 games for 5 different teams!!
The best Player of the Tournament was presented to Mr. “Peng “ from the Thai Barbarians. Finally everybody took of to the Ocean Marina where Raimon Land hosted the closing party of the sailing / rugby weekend.
A vote of thanks is due to all the organizers supporters and sponsors without whom a tournament like this could not happen Raimon Land, MBMG International, AGS Four Winds, Hamptons International, Jamesons Irish Pub, G4Ssecuricor, Mackenzie Smith Law, Cranes & Equipment Asia Ltd., Contract Resources Asia, WMS Thailand, The Comcon Group and of course Horseshoe Point for supplying the venue and the Pattaya Mail for printing the tournament programme.

Robert takes a double

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday’s winners at Eastern Star.

Barry Hooper

Robert Lamond came and joined us at the TRGG this week and was obviously determined to make it a good seven days.
We went to Plutaluang on Monday and he took first place with a thirty-eight pointer, just the one up on George Bishop. But he promptly backed that up the following day at Phoenix with a convincing forty-one points, four clear of his nearest rival Ray Trembath. Well Done Robert.
Monday, May 5, Plutaluang S & E - Stableford
1st Robert Lamond (11) 38pts
2nd George Bishop (16) 37pts
3rd Bob Creswick (13) 36pts
4th Barry Hooper (36) 34pts
5th Brian Holmes (16) 34pts
2’s: George Bishop
Monday we visited Plutaluang, a change from our original plans to go to Green Valley as they had upped the anti on price because it was a bank holiday. I must congratulate Plutaluang for keeping their costs at an acceptable level. You can be sure we will be back regularly.
We played South and East and the course in the main was in good order although some of the greens left a little to be desired. But as they say it was the same for everybody.
Robert Lamond took it on and came out top with thirty-eight points. George Bishop was second with thirty-seven and Bob Creswick third with thirty-six. We had just one ‘2’ on the day and that went to George Bishop
Tuesday, May 6, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean - Stableford
1st Robert Lamond (10) 41pts
2nd Brendan Abbott (22) 37pts
3rd John Pegrum (12) 36pts
4th Eddie Townsend (18) 34pts
5th Alun Webber (23) 34pts
2’s: Ito Akitoshi, Tewin Lamthong, Eddie Townsend
Tuesdays outing was at Phoenix (Mountain and Ocean) and again Robert Lamond came out firing on all cylinders and made a fine forty-one points to take his second win in two days. He was well ahead of second placed man Brendan Abbott who was back on thirty-seven points. John Pegrum took third spot, just the one back on thirty-six.
Robert found his handicap chopped by one to nine as a result of the two consecutive wins.
Thursday, May 8, Greenwood A & C - Stableford
1st Alun Webber (23) 39pts
2nd Ray Trembath (9) 39pts
3rd Phil Knight (11) 38pts
4th Brendan Abbott (22) 37pts
2’s: Fergus Brennan, Alun Webber
Thursday was a trip to Greenwood and we had a good turn out of some nineteen players. This course is very popular with the members despite the lengthy journey that has to be made.
That Welshman, Alun Webber, has returned to our shores and had obviously not left his game at home. Granted he won on a tight count back with thirty-nine points from Ray Trembath, but a win is a win. Third place went to Phil Knight with thirty-eight points.
Alun also managed to make a ‘2’ in his winning score and was joined by Fergus who also notched one.
Saturday, May 10, Eastern Star - Stableford
A Flight (0-15)
1st Fergus Brennan (10) 35pts
2nd David Snell (13) 34pts
3rd Rob Herald (14) 33pts
4th Nigel Ashurst (10) 33pts
5th Bob Creswick (13) 33pts
B Flight (16-up)
1st Ted Senior (18) 38pts
2nd Paul Challis (31) 37pts
3rd Robert Ledlie (24) 33pts
4th Mod Chaviraksa (16) 33pts
2’s: Jack Mooney
Near Pins: Fergus Brennan, Mod Chaviraksa
Saturday and back to our usual venue of Eastern Star. However, this will be the last visit for some weeks as it was found that the Eastern Star management are doing a lot of conversion work to the greens and four temporary greens were there to greet us. Discussions were had with the management and they understand that we will be back once the work has been completed.
So players please take note that as from May 17 we will be attending Bangpra for our Saturday outings until further notice.
On the day we had a fine turnout of some thirty players in two divisions (0-15 and 16 up) and it was the gaffer himself, Fergus, who took the win of the A Flight with thirty-five points, followed by David Snell on thirty-four, and winning a three-way count back for third was Rob Herald.
In The B Flight, Ted Senior was top dog by just one after pipping Paul Challis (who it must be reported has been working feverishly to improve his game and it is obviously paying off) with thirty-seven. Third place on thirty three points saw another count back with Robert Ledlie beating Mod Chaviraksa.
Jack Mooney cleaned out a good-sized pot with the only ‘2’ on the day.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Murphy’s Law secures Fulham safety

So where do we start? In what must be the busiest week of the season we’ve got championship races to cover, promotion and relegation battles to report, finals to preview and even transfer rumours to cover in his week’s pages. No time for pre-amble, let’s get straight into the action.
The Premier League culmination comes first, only the fourth time in the division’s history that the title was decided on the final day. For the record Manchester United overcame Wigan Athletic to claim another title with a 2-0 win, the final goal of the season scored by Ryan Giggs as the Welshman equalled Bobby Charlton’s all-time appearance record for the reds.
Chelsea needed to beat Bolton by about 27 goals at Stamford Bridge if United won but could only manage a 1-1 draw, Matt Taylor cancelling out Andriy Shevchenko’s opener. Arsenal finished third, Liverpool fourth and Everton deservedly sealed the UEFA Cup spot in fifth. Not too many surprises there then.
Birmingham thumped Blackburn Rovers and Reading beat Derby in the battle at the bottom, but it was all too little too late as Fulham maintained their all-important seventeenth position and another year in the big time.
In the three year history of this column I’d say that Fulham have received less coverage than any other side in England’s top division. They’re a pretty dull outfit, you have to admit, but let’s allow them to bask in the glory just this once. Until the 76th minute of their fixture at Portsmouth the Londoners were Championship-bound, but a goal from Danny Murphy turned things around, sealing a third straight away win for the first time in the club’s Premier League history.
Manager Roy Hodgson will pick up a one million pound bonus, but where I’d usually complain about huge sums being thrown at football people, Hodgson deserves it more than most.
And yet despite all these shenanigans, the most eyebrow-raising result came at the Riverside, the live game that not even Middlesbrough fans were interested in. And why would they be? The fixture with Manchester City was as meaningless a fixture as the division could throw up, two sides merely turning up to see the season out.
Ninety minutes later the 27,613 crowd were left shaking their heads in disbelief as Middlesbrough walked away 8-1 winners. If this was Sven Goran Eriksson’s last game at City, as you’d expect if you believe everything in the papers, he leaves after one of the worst afternoons of the Swede’s career.
Strange that he’s going, particularly after one of City’s most upbeat seasons in memory, but according to newspapers, the former England manager’s performance hasn’t been enough to keep a certain former prime minister of Thailand from getting an itchy trigger finger. Another sacking and another huge payoff for Eriksson looks likely.
To the weekend then, and it’s the FA Cup Final as an end-of-season treat for us all. Except it might not turn out that way. Portsmouth’s players have been coasting up to this match, and you’d expect them to be fit and fired up for their Wembley date with Cardiff on Saturday. It could be shockingly one-sided, but let’s hope for a decent game.
Should that fail there’s the centrepiece of the Champions League Final on Wednesday, 35,000 or so English fans bizarrely having to travel to Moscow to watch their sides play.
Surely this should be played at Wembley? I’m all for obscure nations hosting finals (he said, hoping no Russians were reading) but sending thousands of rival English football fans across a continent on the same planes and trains to one of the most expensive cities on earth, lacking enough hotel rooms to hold them all, seems like a recipe for disaster to me. And we haven’t even started on ‘carbon footprints’, the new buzzword circulating around the travel industry as we start to look for ways to minimise our impact on Mother Earth.
It is simply ludicrous, and UEFA should have given themselves the option to move the final if it featured two sides from the same nation. In recent years we’ve seen the European club’s showcase match hosted at an obscure Turkish stadium miles from anywhere and a Greek athletics stadium unable to cope with the demands of a major football match and the security needed to go with it. If there’s trouble ahead the finger will be pointed at the fans, but perhaps UEFA should take a look at its own hand in any potential unpleasantness. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen.
I’m going for a Portsmouth rout in Saturday’s FA Cup final as I think they’ll have too much for Cardiff City. Here’s to a Champions League final filled with goalmouth action to finish off what’s been a fantastic season, but somehow I can’t imagine that happening. If John Terry and Didier Drogba can make it onto the pitch after injury scares at the weekend I’m going to plump for Chelsea to dash United’s double hopes with a win on penalties after a boring 1-1 draw. Still, as Fulham will remind us, it’s never too late to give up hope of something amazing.
Ambition? Not here
The Premier League is “the most boring great league in the world” according to Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan, who says his side have no chance of breaking into the top four. “You have West Brom and Stoke coming up and none of those managers is going to say what I said, ‘Watch out, Alex, I’m after your title.’ If they do, people will think they’ve been on the drink,” he said. Meanwhile he’s lining up a 12 million pound offer for Tottenham’s misfit striker Darren Bent.
Spud-u-like
The Swiss government has agreed to ease restrictions on the importation of potatoes following fears that Euro 2008 football fans could face a shortage of French fries next month, according to a Reuters report. A spokesman for the country’s department of agriculture told national radio last week that the government would allow an additional 5,000 tonnes of potatoes to be brought in. The decision follows a request by Swiss potato industry association Swisspatat who warned that supplies were already running low in the build up to the June tournament.
The association has estimated that 3,000 additional tonnes will be needed to make chips for foreign supporters, with the remaining 2,000 used for other forms of potato.
Switzerland has already been fretting over dwindling supplies of its beloved ‘cervelat’ sausage following a European Union ban on the Brazilian cows’ intestines traditionally used to encase the meat. Economics minister Doris Leuthard, who is also responsible for agriculture, told the national parliament in March there were enough cervelats in reserve to last at least through Euro 2008. The tournament runs from June 7 to 29 and will be co-hosted by Switzerland and neighbouring Austria.

Sparkling Daz cleans up at Golden Elephant Tour - Hua Hin

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, May 5 Palm Hills - Stableford
Our annual visit for a 72-hole competition over 4-days with also a daily stableford and the 2’s as well. Twelve players on the first two days and fourteen on the last two days competed for the prizes.
Our normal starting course was Palm Hills, and still in good condition. Paddy Wilson took the early lead with 36 points, followed by Dave Richards who beat Stephen Ironside on count-back after both recorded 35 points.
Tuesday, May 6, Majestic Creek – Stableford
This is our second favourite course in the region both for layout and conditions, so it is always a welcome return here.
Paul Quodmine beat Lee Buil on a 23/20 back nine count-back, after they both finished with 41 points. Dave Richards came third on 39 points.
Thursday, May 8, Springfield – Stableford
The Jack Nicklaus designed course and to be honest, not in it’s normal pristine condition. Normally a tough course but Paul Quodomine came in with 38 points for the win, followed by Daz Martindale on 36 and Rick Newman on 35.
Friday, May 9, Black Mountain – Stableford
Our favourite course down here and the old manager at Eastern Star, Jirapol, was there to welcome us all.
Paddy Wison’s 40 points earned him first place in the daily stableford with Andy Mills second on 37 and Rick Newman third with 34.
In the overall standings after 4 days of golf, Dave Richards came in third after losing a back 18 count-back of 34/32 to Rick Newman in second, and winning the Golden Elephant tour with 141 points was Daz Martindale, who Paddy Wison had auctioned before the start of the competition, he went home a happy man.
Jim Lane also won a two-day 2’s rollover so he was also content.

Nick goes potless

IPGC golf from LEWIINSKI’S

Neil Cameron
Sunday, May 4, Green Valley – Stableford
A Flight
1st Mark Wood (6) 41pts
2nd Danny Sienkiewicz (9) 41pts
3rd Clinton Hazlett (6) 38pts
B Flight
1stBrian Tully (20) 45pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (15) 42pts
3rd Mick Shrosbree (15) 41pts
Near Pins: Ian Grout, Mick Shrosbree, Gary Blackburne, Steve Newlan
2’s: (12)
Forty-three golfers set out to the usual Sunday venue at Green Valley with the weather just about holding out, and the scores tell their own story.
Waltzing his way with a super 41 points, and taking first place on count back over Danny Sienkiewicz, was Mark “happy shoes” Wood. What a difference a week makes. Rounding of the flight was Clinton Hazlett with 38pts.
Winning B Flight and the day with a tremendous 45 points was Brian Tully; He also took a big bite out of his handicap. Runner up to Brian was the in-form Peter Henshaw with a very impressive 42 points. Third place went to Mick Shrosbree one point adrift of Peter.
I have been informed that Pattaya has sold out of cotton wool that can only mean one thing, Wireless is heading to town.
Tuesday, May 6, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Joe Mcardle (12) 38pts
2nd Dene Airey (13) 38pts
B Flight
1st Peter Ring (21) 36pts
2nd Ray Philips (24) 36pts
2s: Gordon Kerr, Colin Davis
Twenty-seven golfers tried their luck at Laem Chabang.
But the round of the day belonged to Irish man Joe Mcardle with a splendid 38 points, taking the premier division on count back over ‘Big’ Dene Airey and relegating him to second place. Finishing in third place and one out of the money was the ever-smiling Seamus Cotter.
The in-form Peter Ring with a level par 36pts won B Flight, also on a count back over Ray Philips. In third place was the unlucky Peter Henshaw.
Wednesday, May 7, Phoenix - IPGC Match Play League
Haven 4                           v 4 Lewiinski’s
Barry Winton (halved)         v Bob Newell
Al Keith (won 4 & 2)           v Steve Mulberry
Phil Groves (halved)            v Seamus Cotter
Rick Holmes (won 4 & 2)     v Ian Halfpenny
Tony Barritt (lost 2 & 1)       v Joe Mcardle
Russell Exley (won 1 up)     v Dene Airey
Barry Traynor (lost 4 & 3)     v Paul Henshaw
Trevor Schirmer (lost 4 & 3)  v Peter Henshaw
Today was the start of the new IPGC Match Play League. The Lewiinski’s team was drawn away in their first match to play the Haven boys at their home course of Phoenix. The match ended all square at four points each.
A Flight
1st Paul Henshaw (14) 37pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (15) 36pts
Eight reserves from the away side played behind the main match. Their scores were then added to those who participated in the match, to give father and son Peter and Paul Henshaw first and second place in a stableford competition. How you might ask, do you play match play, and end up with stableford points? Well our G M managed to do it.
Friday, May 9, Treasure Hill - Stableford
A Flight
1st Tony Bakkar (9) 39pts
2nd Steve Newlan (8) 39pts
B Flight
1st Sim Davis (18) 30pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (16) 30pts
2’s: Tony Bakkar.
On a day that must have been the hottest so far this year, twenty-seven of Lewinski’s best tried their luck at the very challenging Treasure Hill.
Winning B Flight was Sim Davis on a count back over Pierre Bietry, both on 30 pts: A fair score on the day, considering the circumstances
The premier flight was an altogether different story. Taking top spot on a count back was Tony Bakkar with an incredible 39 points over the unlucky Steve Newlan.
But the unluckiest golfer of the day has to be Nick Strasshine, who shot 37 points for the low gross of the day and came nowhere. Nick played the last six holes in three-under par for a gross 76 off his 5-handicap. Unfortunately he didn’t get a ‘2’ either, the sole honour going to Tony Bakker.
After the presentation, and as I left for home, Nick thanked me for game. I thought to my self, 37 points at Treasure Hill for no reward - who said golf was a fair game?

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

The are moments in ones life that are wasted with actions that are regretted for years after. If you had the misfortune to watch the WBC jr. welterweight fight from the Nottingham Arena last Sunday between now former champ Jr. Witter (36-2-2) and new champ Timothy Bradley (22-0), that was one of those moments. You wasted some precious time here on earth.
For the record Bradley scored a knockdown in round 6 on his way to a split decision win that defies logic. It defies logic because Jr. Witter did absolutely nothing to win any round. Italian judge Franko Ciminale wins the ‘Stevie Wonder Award’ by scoring the fight 115-112 for Witter.
When announced, the willing dupes that paid to actually view the contest sat in stunned silence. They sat in stunned silence during the fight also, probably wondering why they paid the price of a ticket.
Fortunately judges Omar Minton (114-113) and Belgium Daniel Van de Wiele (115-113) actually watched what was taking place in the ring. TSR had it 119-111 for the undefeated Bradley, mainly because he actually landed punches.
The undefeated California youngster may do alright down the road in the division mainly because there isn’t a heck of a lot in it. Take away Ricky Hatton and the weight class is a “vast wasteland.” TSR touted this as “maybe a good fight”. Wrong again.
De La Hoya - Forbes lingers…
The Square Ring thought there was almost absolutely nothing to write further about the De La Hoya-Forbes fight. The key word in that sentence is “almost.”
Sir Frog, croaking after a recent holiday from his Belgium restaurant (a.k.a. The Lilly Pad), has some thoughts: “Little bit late, but a great performance by Oscar and Steve Forbes. Twelve rounds of beautiful boxing, no hanging around, no head butts, just real boxing, it’s been a long time since we saw that.
“De La Hoya showed that he still has it with fast jabs and good combinations with speed. Forbes has never gone down or been KO’d in his career so this made it very difficult for De La Hoya.
“Hope the fight goes on with Floyd ‘Big Mouth Running Away’ Mayweather in September. In the last fight I had De La Hoya in front on points until he slowed down in the last three rounds. The judges noticed it too and scored the fight in favour of Mayweather. With his age, De La Hoya cannot wait any longer to set things right. Thumbs crossed for you De La Hoya, it’s time to close the big mouth Mayweather!”
On the other hand Teddy Atlas, ESPN boxing analyst, saw an entirely different fight.
“This fight set a world record. Do you know what it was?” “No”, answered Joe Tessitore his boxing sidekick. “It set a record for the most money ever paid for a sparing session. This was nothing but a well-paid sparing session for Oscar. Did you notice how puffy Oscar’s face was after the fight from a light hitting Forbes. What’s going to happen against Mayweather?”
TSR did notice the swollen right side of De La Hoya’s face mentioning that fact last week.
“I don’t want to see De La Hoya face Mayweather jr.,” continued Atlas. “It will prove nothing because frankly their last fight wasn’t even close. Another will prove nothing except that it will bring in big money. Oscar has all the money there is so why not let someone else make some money? I’d like to see Mayweather against Cotto, who has a chance of winning.”
No, to Cotto-Mayweather jr because Oscar, the promoter, would have to share the profits with rival promoter “Honest” Bob Arum. Not going to happen.
Atlas also ranked boxers as they affected the sport during their glory years. The last few were Sugar Ray Leonard, Ali, Tyson, Foreman II and Oscar De La Hoya. The Foreman II is Big George’s second career.
There are cynics that think of De La Hoya as part of a seniors tour in boxing. Twenty years ago that might have been true but today he, along with Kelly Pavlik, Cotto, Manny Pacquiao and a few others are about the only real “marquee” name fighters left in the sporting public’s eyes. They are the “mainstream” of the sport. There is though a Seniors Tour that is alive and well…
Senior Boxing Tour
On June 24 the Kingdom will be part of a “return to the past” for former champions Jeff Fennech and Azuma Nelson. The two greats fought the last time in March of 1992 with Nelson getting the win. Lot of water under the bridge since then.
Originally Fennech was scheduled to meet Samart Payakarrun who he defeated via a 4th round KO in 1987. “I met Samart in Bangkok, we had dinner and agreed to the fight, then the next morning he told me he wasn’t going to go ahead with it,” Fenech said. “I don’t know what happened or whether somebody got to him.”
In steps Nelson to fill the void. The two first fought in Las Vegas in 1991. The fight ended in a draw with both boxers claiming they got robbed.
“The first time we met I believe I won, and the second time, when Azumah beat me, there were no excuses, so this will be my chance to level things up,” Fenech said. “This is my chance to make it up to myself and the Australian people.”
Nelson is a remarkable boxer. He would take time off then come back fighting like the great he was. His last 5 were not classic Nelson with 3 of them coming against Jesse’ James Leija. In ’94 he lost a 12 round UD, in ’96 he KO’d Leija in 6 and then ended his career by losing over 12 to the talented Mexican. Boxers that underestimate Nelson are usually in for a lesson.
Calzaghe-Jones next? …Could be
If Hopkins-Calzaghe was less than expected (TSR missed on that one), then maybe Roy Jones jr. will be better.
It’s been written, probably by someone that read and understood the book “Dummy’s writing for Dummy’s about Boxing”, that styles make fights. The flip side of course is that styles can ruin fights, which is what happened with Hopkins-Calzaghe.
“I’m going to make my reservations,” said Jones jr. to FightNews. “HBO wants the fight! Calzaghe wants the fight! I want the fight!”
The fight would probably be held later this year. That statement is rather silly as it couldn’t be earlier this year, now could it?
“It was an ugly fight,” observed Jones on Calzaghe-Hopkins. “Joe did the work. Bernard landed the cleaner punches. My fight with Joe will be prettier. I won’t hold him and dance with him. I will be all speed and power.”
The fact is that Jones jr has lost some speed and power, which against younger guys with quality hurts. Calzaghe is quality.
Challenge for Khan?
Shirley you’re “having a laugh.” The UK’s latest uncrowned superhero may be a lot less than advertised. Amir Kahn is 17-0 but those behind his career seem loath to put him in against a boxer of even limited quality.
The latest to join the club is former British 130-pound champ Michael Gomez whose record of 35-8 looks “awfully good.” Upon closer inspection it’s just plain “awful.”
Back in 2003 Gomez knocked Alex Arthur down three times en route to a 5 round TKO. Following this first loss, Arthur went on a winning streak going 10-0 to get to 26-1. Gomez then went 3 and 0 before the wheels fell off the bus. First came a TKO in 6 at the hands of a decent Javier Alvarez (31-4-1), which was then followed by a TKO by Peter McDonagh whose 7-11 record is not misleading. The TKO loss to Carl Johanneson (26-3) would be acceptable except Gomez’s three wins come against guys with a combined record of 34-91-8.
Could Khan be a lightweight edition of heavyweight “Fraudly” Harrison? Is up to you.
The heavyweight division saved
If it’s true that “as the heavyweight division goes, so goes boxing” the savior has arrived. For months we’ve heard that with the return of Vitali Klitschko the heavyweight division will be rejuvenated, the birds will sing, a cure for cancer will be found and someone will call TSR literature.
Last week a “deal” was reached to stage a box fight between WBC champion emeritus Vitali Klitschko and WBC heavyweight “non emeritus” champion Samuel Peter. According to a press release the fight will or will not (probably, maybe) be held sometime in October in Europe. Should the fight actually take place it will have been four years since the “weak hearted” Dr. Iron Fist has been in the ring.
First Klitschko’s got to win his election for mayor of Kiev. In the meantime Peter can defend his title in July if he so chooses. Co-promoter Dino Duva is working on that bout “feverishly.” Promoter feverish? Take two aspirins and call me tomorrow.
TSR should probably retire the term “Fraudly” from heavyweight Mr. Harrison and instead transfer it to all Russian heavyweights. The list of Russian heavy’s that delay, postpone and stall could fill a Baht Bus. The latest to join the club is WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev. He was scheduled to defend his title against 7-foot Ruskie Nikolai Valuev on May 31.
“Ruslan Chagaev suffers from a protracted virus infection,” stated Dr. Michael Ehnert. “In medical terms it’s a viral laryngitis and pharyngitis. For non-doctors, it’s a highly feverish viral infection of the upper respiratory tract with heavy symptoms. The medical treatment makes it absolutely necessary that he stop training.”
The new date is July 5 but it would be unwise to etch it in stone. Ruslan’s ex-manager Taymas Niyazov has claimed that Chagaev is almost blind in his left eye.
“Ruslan is fit as a fiddle,” said promoter Klaus-Peter Kohl. “All conflicting messages are simply wrong!”
Is up to you.
Strange happens
in Las Vegas
Zab Judah and Las Vegas are not a good fit. Judah’s been suspended by the commission twice and now his May 31 fight against Shane Mosley is off.
It was officially announced last week that Mosley-Judah has been cancelled do to “an arm injury suffered by Judah during his Las Vegas training. Judah suffered multiple, severe lacerations on his right forearm and received 50 stitches to close the wounds suffered in an accidental fall.”
That explanation was later clarified to “falling in the bathroom and putting his arm through a glass shower door.” Now if you believe that I’ve got a ski chalet for sale on Pattaya Beach. Yep just like, “I love you too much.”
Jeeves, a few lagers, a cigar and some music if you please - Life is good.

Ladies 4 - Gentlemen 1

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

The winning team at Greenwood: (left-right) David Thomas, Kazu Agune,
Chris Voller and ‘Birthday Boy’ Denis Smith.

Heavy and ominously thick overcast skies greeted the Pattaya Golf Society at Eastern Star on Sunday, May 4, as the small field arrived to play a stableford event over the course which is still holding up despite remedial work being done to some of the greens. Wonderfully obedient, however, they held back and only a smattering of rain came towards the end of the round, otherwise the conditions were very comfortable and almost European spring-like.
Regarding the oft-maligned greens, as one experienced golfer said, “At least they are attempting to do something to improve the course.”
Now, there was a time in the West - it may even still apply - when the golf course on a Sunday was a bastion of male domination. Ladies beware, who’s cooking the lunch, eh? Not in Pattaya it seems. For four competitions out the last five ladies have ruled the Sunday roost (roast?) with this one going the way of the others.
Kazu Agune pushed himself to a tidy 31 points, one behind Harry Riley’s third placed total of 32 but David Thomas could not master the score of Mam Morel, both tying for the top with 36 points each. David had the honour of the best gross figures of the day, 78 shots, but straight hitting Mam off the red tees is a match for any golfer.
There were no birdie 2’s on the slow greens and the Booby Bevy went to Endo Nohiri for playing more shots off the wrong fairways than off the correct ones.
With the exception of a US Navy three-ball on the fourteenth tee diving for cover as a thinned bunker shot near the previous green burst into a steel litter bin, reminding them that there was no hiding-place these days, everyone at Eastern Star seemed to enjoy the day. Even the men!
Thompson tops
at Phoenix
In contrast to two days previously the Pattaya Golf Society visited Phoenix on Tuesday, May 6, under a cloudless sky and a beating sun, to play a stableford event over the Mountain and Ocean nines. After a two-month closure the Mountain course was re-opened with recently cored greens -”Only in Thailand” was the cry - and putting would be a lottery for most.
Len Jones fared better than many but three-putting the final hole saw him record a one-over 35 points for third place. In second, with 36 points, was new golfer Ann Silawong who is slowly picking up the game from her mentor Stuart Thompson, who appropriately went two better to take the victory with the best gross figures of the day, 78 shots, giving him 38 points.
Chris Voller’s smiles were broad at the presentation when he learnt that his birdie ‘2’ on Mountain # 7 was the only one of the day and earned himself a handy bonus with the rolled-over 2’s pot.
The Booby Bevy went to Angus Calver for a nil-return card after a frustrating day on his first visit to the course. Golf can be tough in the Land of Smiles!
Happy Birthday Boss!
Thursday, May 8 saw the Pattaya Golf Society celebrate Mr. Denis’ birthday in the usual manner, with a four-ball scramble at Greenwood over the C and A nines. The course was in superb condition and the day was set in fine style for the fun event.
The OK Corral’s slightly modified handicapping system is much more equitable than the accepted system here in Pattaya and once again it led to shrewd team selections and only one shot covered the top three teams.
In third place, with net 52.6 was the hastily assembled team of Stan Kure, John Schroeder, Angus Calver and Ian Hart, a mere 0.4 of a shot behind the runners-up David and Margaret Wilkinson, Stuart Thompson and Ann Silawong. Their 52.2 return showed the input of the ladies in the team under the shrewd stewardship of the Australian golfer Stuart.
The winning team was that captained by David Thomas with Chris Voller, Kazu Agune and the Boss himself, Mr. Denis, and their score of 51.6 paid tribute to the guest of honour as did his two crucial birdie putts.
Near-pins had been sponsored by Peter Duncan, Len Jones, John Mason and Tim Williams and these were won by Kari Aarnio, Stuart Thompson, David Wilkinson and Chris Voller, with the Booby Bevy going to the day’s under achievers Len Jones, Peter Duncan, Bill Quon and Evan Millar, despite their sub-par round.
To end the day the golfers enjoyed a lavish buffet prepared by Khun Malee at the OK Corral and everyone had fulsome praise for the winners, especially Mr. Denis, the birthday boy.

‘Birdie Boys’ capture Ray Rogers Scramble

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Thursday, May 8, Burapha C & D – Scramble

The Legend lives on, and long may it continue. The story of Ray Rogers is well known to the ‘old timers’ here and he graced the stage for many years. Sit in his chair at the Cafe Kronborg and you soon moved.

The winning team of Mikael Anderson, Rick Holmes, Ray Thornton and Barry Traynor pose with Dave Richardson (far left) and Gary Rogers (kneeling).

It was decided by Gary Rogers and Ray’s old friends that we would not let his memory die, and every year Gary holds a competition with a party after at Ray’s old house and all his friends attend the day.
Here thanks have to go in particular to Dave Richardson and George Bennison for organising it, Bjarne Nielson and his family for putting on the ‘Beer Well’ and food back at the house and of course Gary Rogers who vowed Ray’s name would not be forgotten and invites all back to the house. All do him proud.
This year the competition was to be played at Burapha and the test was to be the C & D Nines, quite a test of golf. There were 15 teams and the format was to be a Scramble format, enjoyed by all who like a relaxed day.
So off we went, and Burapha was nice and quiet, in fact we were able to get around in quick time. The course itself was in fine condition and was a pleasure to play. This is always a relaxing day as you are out with friends, knocking a ball around and if you play a bad shot one of the others will surely help out. Well that is the plan, but the best laid plans of mice and men etc.
It did not take long to zoom around and before we knew it we were sat in the restaurant awaiting the scorecards. There was no rush as the plan was to be back to the house some hours ahead, so we had time for a cold one or two.
Scores in it was back down the road to the house, now Gary’s, where a big spread was laid out and the team leaders collected a shirt for all their team players. Then all concentrated on the food and emptying the “Beer Well.”
Dave then thanked all, particularly the above, but also Burapha and Tim and the PSC, and then read out the results.
In third place was the team of Neil Skilton, Graham Buckingham, Kevin Dinan and Henry O’Brien with a fine 58.3. In second came Clive Robinson, Bob Rasmusson, Trevor Loersch and Herb Pastor with an even finer 57.9. And the winners were ‘The Birdie Boys’ who consisted of Mikael Anderson, Rick Holmes, Ray Thornton and Barry Traynor, with an outstanding 55.1. Well done.
To finish the day we had the ‘Lucky Draw’ then all went home after a great day and vowing to attend the next one. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Dale Murphy (2), Clive Robinson, George Bennison
Long Putt: Wayne Koch, Barry Traynor

Brother D and Café Kronborg tied for first

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

SaBai Friday lost all four points to Brother D, which knocked them out of first and down to fourth place whilst Brother D moved into a tie for first. Balls Galore meanwhile got three points from Jack Tar and they moved into third place.
Canada won all four points in their match against VFW Post 9876 and they moved up the standings into fifth place. Diamond Shop and Café Ole played to a 2-2 draw and Beaver Bar & Grill won three points from House of the Golden Coin.
The best series were bowled by: Ooy 543,Mio 541, Morn 531, Dang 530, Sven 527, La 526, Su 524 (241 game), Bill Key 522 and Leo 522 (215 game).

The Hawaians hit back in style

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Tuesday’s winner Sus Ige (left) with second placed Herbert Ishinaga.

Last week it was the two Paul’s who did the field in, but this week the Hawaiians that got their revenge: Sus Ige still on his hot streak came in with 39 points to win the day after making his usual good putts and recovering well on the few occasions he was in deep trouble.
Herb Ishinaga had a poor front nine with only 16 points but came roaring back with 21 points on the back nine to edge out Dale Murphy on a 21/19 count-back for second place. Herb lucked out on the 11th as he chipped in from about 30 yards for a birdie. The birdie helped him to win the hole and also secured enough points to come in second for the day.

History Channel focuses on Muay Thai

Saksiri Uraiworn
Muay Thai is the subject of a History Channel presentation as part of a new series entitled “The Human Weapon.” The filming for the Muay Thai segment was done in Thailand, and a presentation to announce the project was held on April 23 at the Fairtex Sports Club in Pattaya.

The noble and deadly art of Muay Thai will feature in a special History Channel series on Asian martial arts entitled “The Human Weapon.”

Speakers at the presentation were series producer Ric Lawes, Richard Wilson, who is director of Biz-Art Modern Media Alchemy Co Ltd, and Benchaporn Thongsansra, marketing director of Location in Thailand Co.
Extracts from the production were presented during the briefing in which two presenters from the United States, a professional fighter named Jason Schamber and a former wrestler and professional footballer named Bill Duff embarked on a mission to explore the history of Muay Thai.
They traveled throughout Thailand, seeking the origins of the art in Buddhist temples, and they pitched themselves against highly trained fighters in a jungle camp.
Producer Lawes said that Muay Thai is an elegant art of defense, but is also a lethal one. He said that the documentary would reveal training tactics that have never been released before.
Each program in the Human Weapon series deals with a well-known martial art in Asia.
The Human Weapon “Muay Thai: Ultimate Striking” episode used a budget of US$200,000 and required four months for preparation, and two months to film in Thailand. It will be aired on Thursday June 5 at 8:00 p.m. on the History Channel (True Visions A23 and D44).