Sathrum sneaks in by one at Eastern Star

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

Tuesday, May 20, Plutaluang – Stableford
No game this week on Monday as it was a holiday so we switched to the naval course one day later and there were 15 players out today. We had booked the North and South course which we think is the most popular combination with all our players.
No nearest the pins today but the 2’s were still up for grabs. Two birdies, both on the Lighthouse Hole earned Bev Ewens and Ben Findon a share of the pot each.
In the stableford competition, Martin Anderton picked up his first prize for some considerable time, finishing fourth after losing on a 20/15 back nine count back to Russell Benson after they both finish with 34 points. Ted Morris came in second with 37 points and the winner was Ben Findon with 38 points.
Wednesday, May 21, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
Our first visit here for some considerable time owing to the price structures and we still await a final agreement with the management before we re-book at this ever-popular course.
There were 23 players out today in a two divisional stableford competition. Two winners in both divisions in the 2’s; Andy Mills on the 15th for division 1 and a remarkable shot over the water on the 5th hole one foot from the pin earned Miss Oam the second division 2’s prize as well as the nearest the pin. Mam Morel also got a ‘2’ as did Ken Foster.
In division 1 there were only two nearest the pins won and both went to Bill Hewitt.
With a cut of 1-19 in the stableford for division 1, the in-form Daz Martindale finished first with 37 points followed by Kari Aarnio on 35 points. Cully Monks won division 2 with 36 points after beating Mam Morel on a 19/16 back nine count back.
Friday, May 23, Eastern Star – Stableford
Our normal Friday schedule here and a one divisional stableford competition today. Remarkably there were no 2’s recorded but back after a few months rest, Tom Sathrum took the stableford win with 39 points. Russell Benson came second on 38, Harry Riley third on 36 and Paddy Wilson fourth on 35 points.
Note: Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Siam Cats, Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 8.30am for a 10.00am tee off. Please sign up in the bar or call Glyn on 086 837 5464. Transport is available for all players.

Plutaluang Rotary Club raises funds with charity bowl

The members of the Rotary Club joined the charity bowling event.

Vimolrat Singnikorl
The Rotary Club of Plutaluang held a charity bowling evening on May 10 to raise funds for ongoing projects, including the clean water project that provides drinking water for rural schools.

Assandant Team 1, with a score of 2120 were the winners and received the honorary trophy of HRH Princess Siriwanwareenareerat.

Member of parliament for Chonburi Zone 2 Maitree Soiluang opened the event, which was held at PS Bowl.
The winning team was Assandant Team 1, who took the Princess Siriwanwareenareerat Trophy. Runner up was Assandant Team 2, who received the Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn Trophy. The third place trophy was from Dr. Anon Jirachawala, past District Governor of 3340 Rotary International, which went to the Sdec Construction Team. Fourth place went to the Rotary Club of Jomtien Pattaya, who received the Maitree Soiluang Trophy. Fifth place went to the Sattahip Drinking Water Club, who received a trophy from Somsak Charoensuk, chairman of Plutaluang Sub-district Administration Organization.
In the individual awards male team category, Supat Team received a trophy from Pratheep Malhotra, District Governor of 3340 RI. The female individual team winner was the Pee Yai Team, who received a trophy from On-Anong Siriprommanat, past District Governor of 3340 RI.
The highest scoring game award went to Tony, who received a trophy from Somchai Ngernsoongying, president elect of the Rotary Club of Plutaluang. The consolation prize went to the Rotary Club of Pattaya, who received a trophy from Capt. Thitikarn Kaenthongcharoen, secretary of the Plutaluang Rotary Club. The developmental player award went to the Rim Chonlathee Team, who received a trophy from Rotarian Ann Sunee Erickson.

Tough scoring at Treasure Hill

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, May 19, Treasure Hill - Stableford
1st PJ Redmond (19) 32pts
2nd John Hughes (17) 30pts
3rd William Macey (10) 30pts
We found the Treasure Hill course in great condition, but playing Stableford it’s never easy to score a lot of points, and such was the case today.
PJ Redmond scored the most, winning with a modest 32 points and John Hughes took second place with 30 points after beating William Macey on a count back.
Near pin prizes were shared around, Ron Ryan, William Macey, Gerry Cooney and Mario Benavidez all collecting one apiece.
Wednesday, May 21, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Takeshi Hakozaki (11) 36pts
2nd William Macey (10) 35pts
3rd Alan Sullivan (15) 34pts
B Flight
1st Mario Benavidez (26) 35pts
2nd PJ Redmond (19) 30pts
3rd Bruce Ogilvy (16) 29pts
A good turnout of golfers today to play this popular course –if only they would do something to tidy up the changing rooms!
Frequent visitor to The Bunker, Japanese golfer Takeshi Hakozaki playing one of his favourite courses, took the honours in the A Flight. Playing to his handicap he won with 36 points, ahead of William Macey 35 points and Alan Sullivan, who has been playing steady golf for some weeks now finishing third with 34 points.
The points Alan acquired here keep him neck and neck with John Hughes in the race for the ‘golfer of the month’ title too.
In the B Flight Mario Benavidez found some form to win with 35 points and PJ Redmond kept up his recent good form by taking second place with 30 points, with Bruce Ogilvy in third with 29 points.
The technical prizes never went to any of the A or B Flight winner’s as Mick Benton took two of them and Stuart Tinkler and Peter Bevis took the other two.
Friday, May 23, Green Valley - Medal
1st Gerry Cooney (11) net 70
2nd John Hughes (15) net 70
3rd Eddie Martin (16) net 70
4th PJ Redmond (19) net 75
Always a pleasure to play Green Valley, but their low season pricing policy seems to have deterred a lot of golfers, and we were presented with a totally clear course – millionaires’ golf!
Playing a Medal round, there was a three way tie in which Gerry Cooney came out on top after a count back. John Hughes had a better last six holes than Eddie Martin to take second place and PJ Redmond got in the frame again, taking fourth place with a net 75.
PJ won a near pin prize too along with Paul Smith, William Macey and Mashi Kaneta.

Raimon Land surges to the fore sponsoring yacht racing

The Raimon Land sponsored “Lofts Southshore” was the winner at the recent Platu Coronation Cup held during the 4th Top of the Gulf (TOG) Regatta.

Peter Cummins, Pattaya
Raimon Land PLC, the environmentally friendly developer, has over the past few years been focusing much attention on the marine sector, especially yacht racing, under-writing most of the big regattas held annually throughout the Kingdom.
Starting with the Pang Nga event, held every Chinese New Year, right through to the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, held over HM the King’s birthday week in December, Raimon Land considers that these marine activities aptly fit the company’s image of “developing a better environment.”
From sponsoring the just-finished 4th Top of the Gulf (TOG) Regatta, sailed off the Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Jomtien, Raimon Land is now embarking on the support of two more big regattas in the Gulf. The 14th PC Classic will be raced in the Northern Gulf off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club on Saturday, May 31 and the 7th Koh Samui international week, which will sail around the coastlines of the lovely island from June 1-7.
The Raimon Land PC Classic, which will include most yacht-racing classes in the Kingdom, continues a long-standing tradition. Established at the Varuna Club in 1995, to honour the 10th Royal Varuna Commodore “PC”, when he went into ‘glorious retirement at the ripe young age of 60, this year’s event will be a microcosm of yacht racing in Thailand.
Although only a one-day event, through Raimon Land’s generous sponsorship it promises to be a Pattaya spectacular, with splendid racing and social programmes scheduled throughout the day and evening at the Varuna Club.
The yachts, ranging from tiny Optimists to the powerful Hobie Cat Tigers and keelboats sailing up from the Ocean Marina, will be clearly visible from the Varuna foreshore.
Commodore of the Royal Varuna Club, Alex Skaria, himself a top-class sailor, expects upwards of 100 craft, representing the polyglot membership of Royal Varuna coming from some 15 countries.
Regarding the Koh Samui International Regatta, Callum Laing, Chairman of the Regatta organizing committee, expects entries from Australia, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, UK and, of course, a big fleet from host nation, Thailand. “At least 40 boats so far and still counting”, said Callum earlier this week.
Ms Phornsiri Manoharn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) notes that “the Regatta generates significant income for tourism on the island and raises the profile of Samui considerably.” TAT, like Raimon Land, has consistently supported the marine tourism industry, especially yacht racing.
A highlight of this 7th Koh Samui event will be the competition among the Optimist sailors, the “Samui Junior Sailing Squadron Challenge,” organized by one of the co-founders of the Regatta, John Stall.
Like his Antipodean compatriot, William Gasson, at the Ocean Marina earlier this month, John sees “the future of marine sports and future world yachting champions in the youngsters.” In fact, John and Samui yachting enthusiasts, ‘car-topped’ a number of Optimist dinghies to the Ocean Marina, to swell the entries to a record 126 craft. (For the uninitiated, the Optimist is the international training dinghy for under-16-year-olds).
But, it is not just yacht racing which is a beneficiary of Raimon Land’s munificence. For example, during the TOG Regatta, the company held a splendid beachside party at their impressive NorthShore development at Wongamat. The party was not only for the participants of the TOG but it was also a memorial for Chris Kays, former captain of the Pattaya Panthers Rugby team, featuring the “Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament.”
Chris, a beloved Pattaya resident and rugby aficionado was murdered, along with many Aussie compatriots at the ghastly and brutal Bali bombings, some six years ago.
The company also supports Australian Rules Football, hosting the year’s Grand Final at a leading Bangkok Hotel, via international broadcast.
Raimon Land has been the recipient of many awards of excellence, including the Elevator World’s 2008 Project of the Year prize for, of all items, its River development, where a unique elevator has an “upside-down, inside-out platform.” Sounds a little like a capsized Hobie Cat Tiger…!
Finally, Raimon Land is joined this year as major supporter of the Koh Samui Regatta by Singha, Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui, the five-star (maybe even six?) headquarters of the Regatta since day one and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
The Regatta is very much an “island concern” with many establishments displaying a banner “regatta supporter” during the week-long sailing extravaganza: Dhevatara Properties, the Kata Group, Samui Villas and Homes, the Briza Resort Group, Bangkok Hospital Samui, the Lofts Southshore, the Lotus Terrace and Seatran Discovery, to mention a few.
Raimon Land’s personable, dynamic director of communications, Henri Young, will be present at Varuna on Saturday (May 31) to join the festivities and present the winners’ trophies.
For information on the PC Classic e-mail: rvyc@lox info.co.th or for details on the Samui Regatta: programme, notice of race, online entry etc. visit: [email protected]

The Royal Varuna Yacht Club in Pattaya will be a hive of activity this Saturday with over 100 craft expected for the Raimon Land 14th PC Classic.

The big keelboats will be battling it out for line honours from June 1-7
at the popular Koh Samui Regatta.

O’Brien has that winning feeling

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 20, Plutaluang – Stableford
Plutaluang North and West layouts were host to a stableford competition in one flight under cloudy conditions. The course on the day was in fine and tidy condition with many continuing improvements in progress.
Jean Claude Lhoste won the day with 35 points with Peter Singh Basi in second with 34 points and Henry O’Brien in third with 32 points.
Thursday The 22nd May 2008: Greenwood - Stableford
Seems like I have never been away, this being the third game on the trot I have played here. The test was to be the same, the A & C Nines, and on this day we were to play the C Nine first. They do say a change is as good as a rest.

Henry O’Brien was the top scorer with 41 points at Greenwood on Thursday.

Even in the low season this is still a fine place to play 18 holes, we even played the monthly tournament there Friday. The good thing is that the course is usually nice and quiet, it is always in good nick, and the staff are pleasant.
On this day we got to the Tee early, like over 1 hour early, a ‘Dave Special,’ and as we hoped, the start was free so off we went. The course was as usual, except the greens were a bit ‘tatty’, and as such they were difficult to putt on. We also had a strong wind, it seems as if it is always windy here.
We got around very fast, so it was not long before we could all meet in the restaurant and see how we all got on. In fact we got on really well, and the winner was Henry O’Brien with 41 points. As is usual Henry is off for a couple of weeks, seems to be what winners do at present. In second with 40 points was Lionel Rowles and in third with 37 points was Peter Singh Basi. T.T.F.N.

Sunday sushi at Eastern Star

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Sunday, May 18 was a fine and warm day in Ban Chang when the Pattaya Golf Society visited Eastern Star to play a stableford competition over the course currently undergoing extensive green repairs. The temporary greens being used at present are no substitute for the real thing and the society is seriously thinking of relocating its Sunday golf until the repairs are complete.
However, on this day, Harry Riley found the podium for the third successive weekend as his 36 points showed the mark of a man returning to the peak of his game after many months of golf exile. Only one point ahead was the group’s senior pair of players, Len Jones and David Thomas with 37 points each and both showed an improvement in their current form.
The winner shot a tasty 38 points in his own inimitable style, a mixture of quiet enthusiasm and gentle accurate hitting giving Kazu Agune yet another slice of Sunday success. Already points ahead in the race for the “Player of the Month” Kazu is making the best of the few weeks remaining in his current stay.
For the third week there were no birdie 2’s and the competition the next week was sure to be more intense but the Booby Bevy found a fitting recipient in the shape of Shaun Donovan, many months away from the game after a serious accident, but his smiles said he was just happy to be back. Eastern Star? Great course, shame about the greens.
Head-to-Head at Green Valley
Tuesday, May 20, Green Valley welcomed both The Golf Club and the Pattaya Golf Society for their first International Pattaya Matchplay League fixtures of the season and the course was well prepared and it was also a treat to be putting on fast greens after a series of plodding affairs elsewhere.
Some golfers claim that the format is the truest form of the game and to pit one’s game against an opponent and not the course is the real test of the golfers skill and acumen. So it was that the eight ties were played in a very friendly manner but the rivalries were still there under the surface.
Success for the PGS came in the unlikely form of Evan Millar and Len Jones, both winning well after good starts and Tony Kitchen, in only his second round this trip, managed a very creditable “all square” tie with his opponent. Paul Quodomine only lost out at the bitter end and Chris Hardy and Peter Duncan also came very close to causing upsets.
Disappointment greeted the result of captain David Thomas’ tie but he was up against some classy golf, as was Chris Voller, and the day finished with The Golf Club winning by 5½ to 2½. It had been a wonderfully testing competition and everyone is looking forward to the reminder of the eight ties this season.
The ‘usual suspects’ on top again
Thursday, May 22, the Pattaya Golf Society made its second visit of the week to Green Valley, this time to play a strokeplay event over the excellent course which had hosted the society’s first matchplay league tie earlier. A large field for the low season turned out and saw some fine golf.
Harry Riley just missed out on a share of the spoils with a hard won net 72, level par being a fine day’s work on the testing track which suffered a storm mid-round and left the back nine saturated.
Tying for second place were David Thomas and Jon Haugen and their returns of net 70 reflected their powers of resilience.
The day’s winner was the Ban Chang resident otherwise known as “DS” who had taken the event at Khao Kheow earlier in the month. This time an excellent best gross score of 74 left him ahead by just one shot.
The rolled over 2’s pot was shared by David Wilkinson and Mark Wood for their efforts on holes nine and twelve respectively whilst Kazu Agune, currently riding high in the monthly stats, received the Booby Bevy for a nil return which started with three tee shots into the drink at the fifth, effectively ending his day then.
Green Valley twice in a week? It doesn’t get much better than that!

A week of “Doubles”

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
The headline pays tribute to two players at the TRGG who achieved consecutive wins (doubles) during the past week. The scribe himself, Barry Hooper won his division on the previous Saturday at Bangpra and then went on to win over one division at Plutaluang on Monday, while Robert Lamond took the honours at Pheonix on Tuesday and followed that up with victory at Greenwood on Thursday. Well done to both players.
Monday, May 19, Plutaluang - Stableford
1st Barry Hooper (36) 40pts
2nd Brendan Abbott (22) 36pts
3rd Steve McGrath (15) 36pts
4th Fergus Brennan (11) 34pts
5th Frank Kelly (14) 34pts
Monday was a visit to Plutaluang - a great course that keeps on getting better.
The numbers were down, mainly because it is low season, but the quality of golf was still high (I was paid to say that). However, no one was more surprised than yours truly to win the day with forty points and achieve my second ever win after Saturday’s first place at Bangpra. Brendan Abbott was second with thirty-six points on a count back over Steve McGrath.
As a result of my win here I was cut four shots in general play handicap to thirty-two.
Tuesday, May 20, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean - Stableford
1st Robert Lamond (9) 39pts
2nd Eddie Townsend (18) 38pts
3rd Phil Knight (11) 36pts
4th Alan Webber (23) 35pts
5th Brian Holmes (15) 35pts
2’s: Eddie Townsend (2)
Tuesday saw a large turnout at Phoenix to take on the Mountain & Ocean course and everyone was singing the praises of this venue after the day’s play.
Robert Lamond who has recently been playing some very steady golf took the day by just the one point with thirty-nine, in second place was steady Eddie Townsend with thirty-eight and just another two back in third was Phil Knight.
Eddie Townsend may have been second but he convincingly won the 2’s with a brace at the fourth and fourteenth.
Thursday, May 22, Greenwood A & C - Stableford
1st Robert Lamond (9) 43pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (11) 38pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (15) 35pts
4th Phil Knight (11) 34pts
5th Alan Evans (23) 34pts
Thursday was a visit to Greenwood with a moderate turn out and Robert Lamond, after his narrow win on Tuesday, left it in no doubt on the day with a clear five point victory to take his second straight win.
In second place on the day was ‘Mr. Organiser’ himself, Fergus Brennan, with thirty-eight points and yet another three back in third was Roger Wilkinson on thirty-five.
Robert, as a result of his second win, was cut one in his handicap to eight.
Saturday, May 24, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Steve McGrath (14) 39pts
2nd Barry Hooper (32) 37pts
3rd Eddie Townsend (18) 37pts
2’s: Fergus Brennan
Saturday, and off to Bangpra we went for the second week in a row due to the ongoing maintenance work at Eastern Star. The course here played well but the greens still leave a little to be desired, but it was the same for everyone.
A low turnout but some quality play and a win for Steve Mc Grath with thirty-nine points and revenge over yours truly who beat him on Monday. This time I had to settle for second place after edging steady Eddie Townsend on count back. Fergus meanwhile kept the 2’s all for himself.

‘Big’ Harry signs off with win before departure

Phoenix Golf from Toy’s Music Bar

Mike Gerrard
We have been playing the Mountain course for about 5 weeks now since its Spring tidy up and repair. The greens have now returned to their usual fast and true state, which matched the Ocean course for the day’s game.
I think after this week the Ocean may well be closed for it’s turn to have a rest from what is proving to be a very busy golf course for this time of the year.
So, with the weather set fair, we set off for a stableford competition.
Our winner today was the ever-cheerful ‘Big’ Harry Gillicker with a fine score of 38 points playing off a 14 handicap. The headline says ‘Big Harry’ and ‘departure’ because poor Harry, here for a shortish break has to go back to cool UK to boost the pension funds for a while, to take care of us old codgers. Thanks Harry, but return soon.
The lucky draw today went to the ever-cheerful Terry Vicary.
Normally we play stableford format but on June 3 we will be playing the monthly medal, with a special trophy supplied by Toy’s Bar for the best net score.
If you wish to join us on Tuesday’s please give me (Mike Gerrard) a call on 08 709 17565 and we will try to fit you in. Please note, official handicap players only are allowed to play competition golf.
I would also like to mention a new group run by Clive Robinson has now become established at Phoenix every Friday at 10.30 am. If you arrive by 10.00am we should be able to fit you in, but a phone call first is always better. Call me and I will let Clive know. Again official handicap holders only.

Murphy sticks it to the field by 10

PSC golf from The Sisters Bar

Winner Dale Murphy (right) with second placed Walt Struab.

Tuesday, May 20 was a great day for golf. The weather was good and the course at Pattaya C.C. is improving. The greens are almost back to normal after perforating - in two or three weeks they should be great.
Dale Murphy took advantage of the other players and added insult to injury as he beat the field by 10 shots. Dale had a good game as he shot 40 points to take the win. Three players were tied on 30 points but Walt Struab managed to have the best back nine to come in second.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Goodbye Avram, Hello Hull

So now we really are at the end of the season, domestically at least. Apparently there’s something called the ‘European Championships’ to be squabbled over by ‘Johnny Foreigner’ and his chums during June, but as far as club football goes you’re on your own for a couple of months.
Not that there isn’t anything to talk about, mind you. We’ve had three playoff finals over the weekend, a Scottish Cup Final, and just because the Champions League final was nine days ago I’m not missing my chance to tell you what I thought about it, and Chelsea fans might want to look away now as your club don’t come out of it very well, that’s for sure.
But it’s off to Wembley first, and congratulations are in order for Stockport County, Doncaster Rovers and Hull City. Stockport head to League One, Doncaster overcame Leeds to head into the Championship and Hull, who beat Bristol City, took the ultimate on Sunday. Their reward will be to join Stoke and West Bromwich Albion in next year’s Premier League of Russian and U.S. Debt. It’s surely the finest moment in the history of Hull, who’ll be looking forward to glamorous days out at the likes of Wigan, Fulham and Middlesbrough in the coming twelve months. Does it get any better?
And wasn’t it fitting that 72-year-old Dean Windass should score the winning goal. Whether it was the mark of an experienced campaigner that Windass arrived late into his opponent’s third or perhaps simply because he’s too porky to keep up with play we’ll never know, but Windass found himself unmarked at the edge of the Bristol City box as he connected with a Frazier Campbell cross to hammer home a winner worthy of any final. It was almost sickly sweet to see the home town boy send his club into the Premier League and a storyline you’d laugh at in a cinema, but that’s really how it happened.
Naturally Windass’ exploits hogged the newspaper headlines, but it was the Tigers’ defence that really won this match. That was a fact not lost on manager Phil Brown: ‘It was about what we’ve tried to instil into the football club since day one and that’s a clean-sheet mentality,’ he asserted. ‘I thought my players put their bodies on the line right through the team. Twenty-seven times this year have we gone in front and only once have we not won the game.”
It’s no surprise that Brown should wheel out the statistics. This is the man that spent 10 years as Sam Allardyce’s assistant at Bolton, pioneering the use of technology such as Pro-Zone, the analytical system used to track the movements of players.
But he’ll need more than computers next season if Hull are to avoid doing a Derby. “I may have put my head on the block by getting into the Premier League but I prefer it that way,” said Brown. “That is what the game is all about. It is about brave decisions, brave men and having brave people around that man. I know what the Premier League is capable of throwing at teams but, if you are organised and you stick to your beliefs and you have sufficient ability to help you in those situations, then we will be OK.”
And then there was the European Champions League Final. A triumph for Manchester United over Chelsea as we know, but also of American debt over Russian, style over pragmatism and of class over decency.
Chelsea did well enough to batter United throughout much of the second half and looked set to win the competition but for John Terry’s penalty miss, but it was not to be and United took their third trophy in their history. The Blues still wait for their first and possibly would have deserved to do so, but I have to admit I was dancing around in front of the television when Terry hit the post because Chelsea stand for everything I don’t like about modern football.
It’s not their fans’ fault, I should add before the death threats arrive. Many of them are just as bemused as everybody else by some of the bizarre goings-on at their beloved club. No, it’s at the very top of the chain that the distasteful element of this team begins to show itself, starting with the owner.
Compare the two clubs. Manchester United were led to collect their trophy by Bobby Charlton, survivor of the Munich Disaster of 1958, World Cup winner and an ambassador of football in anybody’s eyes. This could have been his moment to bask in the limelight, yet something inside Charlton stopped him from accepting a medal being placed around the neck by UEFA President Michel Platini, saying “it’s for the players.” Chelsea, meanwhile, were led by their Chief Executive Peter Kenyon, who gleefully accepted a loser’s medal around his neck whilst grinning like a chimpanzee releasing trapped wind.
United’s manager has been in the job for more than 20 years. Chelsea took a few days, thought things through and then fired the man that has taken them further than any other in the competition, saying that “second isn’t good enough” for the club, obviously referring to the club’s long and distinguished history of European success.
There have been too many potential successors to Avram Grant mentioned already and it would take around three paragraphs just to list them, but whoever he (or possibly she) might be, they’ll come into the club as the third boss in nine months and on a hiding to nothing. Win the Champions League and it’s immortality in the clubs history books, along with mutterings about doing it with Jose Mourinho’s team mind you, but failure will result in the chop along with a massive payout.
After getting shot of seemingly the only decent man in the club’s administration, the stage is set for a manager with few morals and a liking for receiving huge wages and payoffs regardless of achieving very little, to arrive and complete the set. Does anyone have Sven’s number?
And then there’s the captain. John Terry’s self-centred blubbing after the game and well beyond – a long time in the dressing room afterwards according to reports – was appalling. When his team needed him and his leadership immediately after a bitterly disappointing defeat, John Terry was to be found weeping on the shoulder of his manager because he wouldn’t be lifting the cup. That may sound harsh but that’s how it is, and I feel it difficult to find much sympathy for Terry after watching replays on YouTube of his alleged spitting on Carlos Tevez. And they say that Argentineans have no morals.
And how fitting was it that the losing penalty should be missed by the ever-delightful Nicolas Anelka? The ultimate footballing mercenary lumbered up to the penalty spot looking like he could barely care less. After the match the Frenchman decided that this was a suitable time to complain about being played out of position since his arrival at Stamford Bridge, also moaning to reporters about being brought on with moments of the game remaining. As a recognised striker he flatly refused to take one of the first five penalty kicks. “I said: ‘No way. I came on practically as a full-back and you want me to shoot a penalty?’” He refused to apologise for his miss. “That’s the game,” he said.
What a delightful individual, but at least he’s amongst his own at Chelsea Football Club. Don’t get me wrong, Manchester United are hardly a bunch of amateurs playing merely for their love of the game, but Chelsea need an enormous summer clearout of truly odious individuals if neutral supporters are to find any love for them next season.
Rangers sneak
the Cup
Kris Boyd emerged from the shadows to become Rangers’ hero as they ended gutsy Queen of the South’s hopes of winning their first Scottish Cup final, says the BBC. Boyd fired home a superb free-kick and DaMarcus Beasley slotted in a second as Rangers eased ahead by half-time.
But the biggest shock in cup final history looked on the cards when Stevie Tosh forced the ball home and Jim Thomson headed in an equaliser. Boyd, though, headed in a winner and Rangers limped home to ensure their 32nd Scottish Cup final triumph. Queen of the South will play in next season’s UEFA Cup.
Meanwhile Leicester City and Ian Holloway have parted company. The Foxes went down into England’s third tier for the first time in their history, prompting the club to let Holloway go.
“We both felt it would be in the best interests of Leicester City and its long-term future if we amicably parted company,” said chairman Milan Mandaric. “This has been a very difficult decision for all parties but, we have agreed that the time is now right,” he added. “I would like to place on record my thanks for the way in which Ian has worked tirelessly over the last seven months to try to bring success to this club.”

Father and son have that winning feeling at Siam Plantation

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, May 19, Burapha - Stableford
Another holiday, this time Visakha Bucha, meant increased green fees once again for the Outbackers. Undaunted however, 37 played at their regular Monday spot: A & B this time off the blue tees and the third round of the three-month long summer eclectic over the two Burapha courses.
Also, a special day for Bob Lindborg who, in celebration of his birthday, put up a couple of near pin prizes on two of the Par 3s. The first one was won by Charlie Sheppard with a wonderful iron shot to about two feet, the second one disappeared and will be played for on May 26.
Div A (0-14)
1st Andrew Sheppard (10) 36pts
2nd Don Peterson (13) 35pts
3rd Neil Hughes (13) 34pts
4th Richard Line (8) 33pts
Div B (15-18)
1st Steve Plant (15) 37pts
2nd Bob Martin (16) 36pts
3rd Rosco Langoulant (17) 34pts
4th Frank O’Neill (16) 34pts
Div C (19+)
1st Mike O’Brien (20) 38pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 36pts
3rd Mark Kembrey (20) 36pts
4th Mark Brenton (27) 35pts
2’s: Charles Sheppard, Andrew Sheppard, Richard Line, Neil Hughes & Don Peterson
Tuesday, May 20, Phoenix - Stableford
Just 10 players made the early start this week, enjoying yet another brisk round on this excellent course and welcome to first timers at the Early Bird slot, David Evans and Bob Rasmussen.
David, who’s no stranger to this course won the day with 37 points from Geoff Moodie and course specialist Norm Martin. Norm squeezed into third place after a three-way count back with Bob Rasmussen & Nick Falconer that went down to the last six holes.
1st David Evans (13) 37pts
2nd Geoff Moodie (24) 33pts
3rd Norm Martin (23) 32pts
Wednesday, May 21, Crystal Bay - Stableford
The last visit to this wonderful resort course was October 8, 2007, for the greensomes of The President’s Cup. Go back another month to September 17 to find when the Outbackers last played here. It hasn’t changed much, just the name, back to Panya Park. The changing rooms look tired and were in need of a facelift but that did not deter some excellent golf.
The test run of some new CONGU software revealed some incorrect stableford scoring and poor additions, leading to a delayed result. However, it was eventually unravelled with Ken Little (welcome back) taking the top spot from Chris Davisson both with 40 points. There was another count back for third spot between Brian & Bernie, both on 39pts and Capt’ Bob took the final place with 38.
The improved road conditions have made this course far more accessible again and it won’t be long before the Outback Golf Bar returns.
1st Ken Little (11) 40pts
2nd Chris Davisson (9) 40pts
3rd Bernie Segrave (8) 39pts
4th Brian Holden (8) 39pts
5th Bob Philp (6) 38pts
2’s: Bob Philp, Brian Holden & 2 from Kathy Doody
Friday, May 23, Siam Plantation - Stableford
There are probably not enough superlatives to describe this world-class course, which a total of 65 golfers enjoyed today. Forty-six Outbackers were joined by another nineteen from The Golf Club in Soi LK Metro to take advantage of The Outback Golf Bar’s exclusive deal.
This course is a hidden gem that displays a maturity far beyond it’s tender age. The fairways, which have their fair share of strategically placed sculptured bunkers, are immaculate with not a blade of grass out of place. The contoured greens, are slick and very difficult to read and also bear similarities to the Plantation’s older sister course, containing many swales to catch that errant iron, leaving tricky little chips and touches to rescue your score.
The focal point of Tapioca & Pineapple nines is the clubhouse as you play out into the tranquil rolling hills to be brought back time and time again to this triple green on the 7th (Tapioca) and the 4th and 9th (Pineapple).
Finally, the architect left nothing to chance just in case you want to reflect on your round at this magnificent 600 million Baht Lee Schmidt designed course, whilst you’re taking your shower you can look out over the course.
Not many people have had the pleasure of playing the course before but it did not stop the son and father combination of Andrew and Charles Sheppard taking the overall 1st and 2nd prize with 41 and 40 points respectively. The remainder of the field was split into 4 divisions with Jack Spencer (35pts) taking A Div, Neil Hughes (36pts) B Div., Dave Headington (37pts) C Div., and Ray Underwood (38pts) D Div.
The future of golf in Pattaya took a giant leap forward today as IPGC and PSC differences were well and truly buried as the Outback Golf Bar welcomed The Golf Bar to their golf competition, firmly putting the golfers demands and best interests before the ongoing local politics of golf and demonstrating once again that golfers want only one handicap system. Perhaps, rather like the MBMG matchplay league, this is yet another pointer, to the rumoured PGA or PGU (Pattaya Golf Association or Union). One decentralised system operating CONGU, the preferred handicap system, for all tournament golf here in Pattaya.
Overall winner
Andrew Sheppard (10) 41pts
Runner up
Charles Sheppard (15) 40pts
Div A (0-10)
1st Jack Spencer (7) 35pts
2nd Jack Grindvold (5) 34pts
3rd John Emmerson (10) 33pts
Div B (11-14)
1st Neil Hughes (13) 36pts
2nd Mark Reid (13) 35pts
3rd Steve Coppell (13) 35pts
Div C (15-19)
1st David Headington (18) 37pts
2nd Kevin Moraghan (19) 31pts
3rd Don Pavlovic (15) 30pts
Div D (20+)
1st Ray Underwood (26) 38pts
2nd Pimusa Tonkhoksoong (20) 35pts
3rd Cambell Potts (20) 34pts
2’s: Don Frances, Joe Mooneyhan, Jack Grindvold & Brian Seed
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 and an Exclusive deal at Siam’s new Plantation course every Friday. More information can be found on www.outbackgolfbar.com.

Russell hits the target

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 19, Emerald - Stableford
1st Kinya Akiyama 37pts
2nd Peter Sumner 37pts
3rd Gavin Leong 35pts
4th Trevor Schirmer 35pts
Riding to the course in the early morning, and watching the storm clouds gather and the sky blackening more with every passing minute, it seemed highly unlikely that any golf would be played for at least a couple of hours. But on arrival the 15-minute storm had passed and apart from the rain rushing through the run-offs the course was immediately ready for play for the main group, and after a half hour there were no signs of the previous downpour.
Kinya Akiyama added to his haul of recent wins at other venues with a close finish against Peter Sumner, closing with an excellent 22 on the back to win the count back by a single point.
Gavin Leong took third spot also with a count back win over Trevor Schirmer.
Chris Knapp had the only ‘2’ in the second division and Bob Maloney and Kinya Akiyama shared the first division.
Wednesday, May 21, Greenwood – 2-Person Scramble
1st Trevor Schirmer & B.J. Smith 49pts
2nd Al Keith & Norman Isherwood 49pts
3rd Bob Maloney & Geoff Braimbridge 48pts
4th Terry Hodgekiss & Darrell Paull 46pts
5th Barry Winton & Stephen Beard 46pts
6th Mikael Andersson & Roy Thornton 46pts
As usual there was a very good turn out for the ever-popular two-person scramble, this month held over the A and C courses at Greenwood.
After a few recent outings that have been less than rewarding, Trevor Schirmer and B.J. Smith returned to claim their past glories with a superb display of chipping and putting that more than made up for missing most of the greens in regulation. But in the end it was a very closely run affair that had to be counted over the back six as Al Keith and Norman Isherwood defied the scramble golfing sage’s observation “that only the high handicappers can win”, as the lowest handicappers of the day, pushed right to the end.
Two of the Gosnell‘s groups made up the next over the line consisting of Bob Maloney and Geoff Braimbridge in third and Terry Hodgekiss and Darrell Paull in fourth. These two pairings were in fact the highest handicappers on the day.
Next over the line, missing out by a single shot on the count back over the last six, was the out of form Doc together with the inform Barry Winton, although on analysis of the day’s play the form book was reversed. They in turn just shaded Mikael Andersson and Roy Thornton by a stroke on the back nine as the Bear finally managed to get in his required 7 tee shots.
Friday, May 23, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Russell Exley 40pts
2nd Peter Sumner 40pts
3rd Glyn Nicholas 35pts
4th Mike Dabanovich 35pts
Crystal Bay is one of the local courses that is beginning to show some affects of a reduced maintenance programme as the fairways, and especially the usually immaculate greens, start to look the worst for wear.
But still the course plays the same for each competitor and in the end analysis Crystal Bay is always a good test of a golfer’s ability to hit the ball in either direction as well as straight.
Russell Exley at last achieved his ambition to become a single figure handicap as he swept round in four under his handicap with a very fine one-over gross on the back half to claim victory. This was at the expense of the now seemingly consistent Peter Sumner, who also had it round in four-under but just lost out on the count back.
Russell’s effort in attaining a single figure handicap is even more impressive when one takes into account that he has only been playing for just over 18 months having learnt all his golf in Thailand with the Haven group. He certainly deserved the long and loud appreciation of the crowd at the presentation when his achievement was announced.
Glyn Nicholas just managed to pip Mike Dabanovich with a steady one-over, as the latter unusually struck up some form on his first game in from the sandy wastelands of the Middle East, and which normally takes about three and a half weeks to attain.
There were no 2’s in the first division but Glyn Nicholas and Darrell Paull shared the pot in the second division.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

If you were looking for a vintage Ricky Hatton in his first fight since the loss to Floyd Mayweather jr. you were probably disappointed. ‘The Hitman’ of the tremendous win over Kosta Tszyu is long gone. What effect the devastating knockout at the hands of Mayweather had on Hatton is up for debate.
With more than 56,000 fans packing the City of Manchester Stadium, Hatton won a lopsided 12-round decision over “The Chosen Juan” Luzcano. Juan was “chosen” for his boxing style, which should have, and did, fit right in the Hatton wheelhouse.
With the exception of rounds 8 and 10 when he was rocked with left hooks it was all Hatton. In the 10th Luzcano landed a left hook that had Hatton wobbly when referee Howard Foster stepped in to save the day. First he lectured Luzcano for some imaginary discretion then called time out to have Hatton’s shoe tied. In all Foster wasted about a minute which gave Hatton ample time to recover. There were times during the fight when one could imagine that Foster was auditioning for the Old Vic rather than refereeing a box fight.
The semi main was supposed to showcase Paulie Malignaggi as Hatton next opponent. TSR has always considered Malignaggi the usual Brooklyn, New York punk with some talent, a big mouth and no punch. Now add to that assessment “stupid.”
Malignaggi entered the ring with more hair extensions than Victoria Beckham. He probably lost the first round when his extensions got in his face and in the 8th when they came un-taped causing a “hair cut” in the corner between rounds. That and a “broken” right hand led to a split decision in his favor over Lovemore “not less” N’dou.
One judge who actually watched the fight had it 115-114 for N’dou while two guys at the beer stand had it 116-113 and 116-112 for Malignaggi. TSR had it for N’dou.
Chrysanthemum Joe
Got a note from a regular reader about a heavyweight named Chrysanthemum Joe Choynski (51-18) who fought from 1889-1904.
Choynski got the name “Chrysanthemum” because he wore his hair in what today would be called an “Afro” or as us with ‘street cred’ say “a Fro.” In 1901 he fought Jack Johnson in Galveston, Texas getting KO’d in 3. For the effort both he and Johnson were arrested and tossed into jail for participating in an “inter-racial” fight. They served 4 weeks and during their incarnation sparred to the delight of fellow inmates, local dignitaries and jailers.
Choynski was only about 168 pounds but had no trouble fighting the best of the day in the heavyweight division. He fought a 20-round draw with future heavyweight champion Gentleman Jim Jeffers.
Choynski’s most memorable fight might have been January 12 of 1900. He was matched against Charles ‘Kid’ McCoy in Brooklyn, New York. The Durango Democrat newspaper covered the fight.
“McCoy got a decision over Joe Choysnki in a bout which lasted three rounds at the Broadway Athletic club tonight. Choynski would have had the fight in the second round were it not for an accident as to time keeping. He had floored the ‘Kid’ four times, but the timekeeper pulled the bell as McCoy counted for the limit of ten seconds, and this saved the ‘Kid’ from absolute defeat.
“Choysnki’s seconds protested vigorously, but referee Johnny White, while knowing the round was short by several seconds, stood by the official timekeeper and ordered the men to continue when the gong rang again for opening of third round.
“The blow that sent Choynski down and out was delivered almost two seconds after the bell had rung for the completion of the third round. There was a great deal of noise in the building at the time the gong sounded.
“In the northeastern portion of the building there was a tumult caused by one spectator dropping dead. The man was very much excited during the bout and expressed himself freely as to McCoy being out before the bell rang. He slid from his seat dead as the bell sounded for the beginning of the third round.”
Choynski said post fight, “I had him licked good and sure and had the timekeeper acted right, I would have had McCoy out. However, I am satisfied nothing was done by either referee or official timekeeper with intent of doing me wrong.”
After the bout Choynski and McCoy signed articles to meet again. But much like today the rematch never took place.
Smell test
In life is a believability level which many call the “smell test.” If you follow boxing closely the “smell test” detector goes off more than is necessary. If it smells like an old dead fish then chances are it is an old dead fish.
The detector goes off in Pattaya minute-by-minute, 24/7, with the words “I love you too much.” Fortunately most old goats ignore the smell, thinking it’s Channel #5, so tourism flourishes.
Just weeks ago TSR reported that the Alex Arthur-Joan Guzman WBO 130 pound title fight was on hold. Guzman was having “visa” problems. Now comes the news that Guzman has decided that he’ll move up to lightweight, making Arthur WBO super-feather champ. Promoter Frank Warren is quoted as saying: “Britain has lost a few of its world champions over the last few months but we have got one back with Alex now declared as world champion.”
Bet he’s not trying to land #1 challenger Juan Manuel Marquez. Why? Cause there goes another title from Britain.
Frank Warren is a modern renaissance man in boxing. He promotes, manages, owns a TV network and writes a “weakly” column in The Sun newspaper. Two weeks ago TSR picked up a bit from Frank’s column.
“Warren announced in his column in The Sun daily newspaper that he had agreed terms with Don King for WBC heavyweight champion Samuel Peter (30-1, 23 KO’s) to come to the UK and defend his title. The proposed date is July 12 at the O2 Arena in London. In terms of whom the 27 year old Nigerian champion will fight, it is apparently between former 2000 Olympic super heavyweight champion Audley Harrison (22-3, 17 KOs) and Matt Skelton (21-1, 18 KOs).”
Due to space limitations the “news” was not in last weeks column. Lucky break. One week later Sam Peter’s co-promoter Dino Duva said in an email to fightnews, “I am stating that as of now, there is no deal. I am working on different options right now for Sam for July, and a fight in the UK is one of them. If there were a deal, it would be done and announced by Duva Boxing.”
So if Warren speaks, writes or wiggles, your bologna detector is likely to be set off.
Smell test - part deux et trios
To the sound of trumpets it was announced that Miguel Cotto (32-0) will face Antonio Margarito (36-5) on July 26 in Las Vegas for the WBA/WBO welterweight title. The fight was originally scheduled for Madison Square Garden but a Las Vegas casino wanted it.
Slight problem in that both fighters wanted to use 8-ounch gloves. The Nevada Commission, for safety reasons, had in their regulations that boxers over 135 pounds use 10-ounch gloves. Welterweight is of course 147 pounds. No problem.
“ESPN Boxing is reporting that the Nevada Commission amended its rules on glove size after being threatened by promoter Bob Arum. Arum wanted to stage Miguel Cotto-Antonio Margarita at 147lbs in Las Vegas. (He also) wanted the fight to take place with 8-ounce gloves, as did the fighters, and pursued a meeting with the Nevada commission to talk it over.”
King Bob rules. There goes another brick from the chimney of credibility that used to be the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
One boxing organization that usually receives high marks is the British Boxing Board of Control. One can argue that like all things British, they tend to be a bit “stuffy and condescending” but they are after all the arbiters of all things to all people in boxing.
Ok, a little over the top perhaps but that’s the case in their minds. They recently extended the suspension of former WBO featherweight champion Scott Harrison until February 2009. Harrison, for some reasons, thought the suspension would be lifted in spite of an April 22 arrest for drunk driving. Silly boy. He was suspended for “bringing the sport into disrepute.”
Hard to believe that he’s the only one bringing the sport into disrepute but then the BB of C probably can’t suspend all promoters, managers and TV networks.
Jeff Fenech speaks
As Jeff Fenech readies for his June 24 encounter with Azuma Nelson, the fight, originally scheduled for Bangkok, has been moved to Melbourne, Australia. Might be bad for Fenech as he has now explained away his loss to Nelson in 1992.
In 1992 he was getting towards the end of his career and maybe like a thoroughbred racehorse he just might have been looking ahead to retirement and the breeding shed. That loss, before 37,000 at Princes Park in Melbourne, Fenech now credits to “extra nocturnal exercise.”
“I wasn’t married back then and I had a massive ego,” Fenech said. “I thought I was invincible and that I could do anything I liked. I slept with four or five girls every day. I did everything wrong. I just thought I was going to win. In the end I paid a heavy price.”
The upside of his actions prior to his Melbourne encounter are oblivious. The rematch with Nelson at the Vodafone Arena in Melbourne on June 24 will have those same distractions.
Jeeves Time…
“Your Lordship, your friend Mr. Sonchai jr. who hosted you and your posse’ at the Saturday Muay Thai fights had a fight card mid week. It was carried on TV channel 7. The ABCO champion Chonlatarn Or Piriyaponyo (25-0) successfully defended against Jaime Barcelona.
“From a e-mail I received: ‘The result is for 12 rounds with both fighting continuously and fiercely before Chonlarn can win unanimously (and) successfully defend his title.’
“Before anyone in the Chonlarn camp orders out for champagne and cavier, Barcelona’s record of 31-38 should be noted.
“Your Lordship, as you should have known, the Jeff Fenech-Azuma Nelson June 24 fight that was originally scheduled for Bangkok was moved to Melbourne. Now you may ask, why? Well my sources indicate via e-mail that, ‘Jeff and Azuma do not fight in Thailand. First Jeff wanted to rematch with my boxer, Samart, but Samart (is) not interested to fight, so I guess the fight is in Australia now.’”
“Ok Jeeves let the man up he’s all covered in blood. Give me some peace. If you please a little quiet, my lager, cigars and some music.”
“Your Lordship I received an e-mail from your old college pal Mr. Stu. I quote, ‘A special hello to the overworked Jeeves. Give him some time off. Get your own lager and cigars for once. You need the exercise.’ So I’m taking Mr. Stu’s advice, I’m out of here, Cherrio, Pip-Pip and Hasta La Vista.”

Tom announces himself as the winner

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 20, Greenwood – Stableford
This was to be a two-part day, as the normal competition was on, and also the matchplay event against the Caddyshack.
The course was in its usual fine condition and has improved such a lot over the last few years. The weather on the day was to be a deciding factor as the wind blew quite strong. The players were soon away, and as they went out in 3-balls, they really zoomed around the course.
Back at Bert’s the ‘organiser’ Tom Cotton did the presentation and surprise, surprise we had an apt winner. The winner with 36 points was Thomas Cotton himself, with Bill Knight in second just two points adrift.
In the MBMG Matchplay competition the interest was intense as the league leaders Caddyshack were playing Tropical Bert’s, who were hot on their heels. At the end of a tense match in which many games were in doubt until the last few holes, the Caddyshack came through to win. Well played all the players. (*Note* Full results can be found in the MBMG Matchplay report on page 59). After the match all the players gathered at Bert’s and enjoyed some of his ‘cold un’s’. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Bill Knight, Paul Scully.

Mascari stars in Ocean 5

IPGC golf from Donovan’s

Monday, May 19, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Doug Lynch (3) 38pts
2nd Vic Hester (13) 36pts
Tough player Doug Lynch shot 73 off the stick to garner 38 points and the top spot on the day. Victor the Inflictor pocketed enough for the Airport Tax, which he would need for his mid-week return to work.
Tuesday, May 20, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Brian Holden (8) 40pts
2nd Steve Mascari (3) 38pts
‘Hole-in-One’: Steve Mascari, #5 Ocean, 7-iron
Oh, it’s an old story, but imagine if you will The Pres striding to the tee box of the slightly uphill fifth hole on Phoenix’s Ocean side. A couple of weeks ago he had made 2-handicap, but over the last handicap period had “ballooned” up to a 3. He had 28 points on Monday.
Had the golf gods allowed him through the Grassy Gates for just a couple of weeks and now they were poised to send him to the eternal damnation of a burgeoning handicap? Had the years of celebrating everybody’s “birthday”, “first day” and “last day” finally taken their toll?
His caddy, herself a veteran of many rounds and several trysts, taking into account windage and slope, handed him the 6-iron. He felt it in his hand, eyed his target, but could not ignore the sensation of adrenalin coursing though his veins. He eschewed the 6-iron and requested the 7. He settled into his address. Visualizing what the shot required, he coiled his lanky frame, unleashed a mighty swing, and yes, the Title Slot ensued. One hop and into the clown’s mouth.
The above magic moment aided in the profound compilation of a gross 73, good for 38 points. Was it good enough? No, not on this day, as the Demon Deacon, counted up 40 points, thanks to an excellent gross 76.
It should also be noted that Messrs. Charles Sheppard and Vic Hestor lost their 2’s to The Pres’ perfect swing.
Thursday, May 22, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Pierre Beitry (15) 41pts
2nd Terry Phur (17) 40pts
2’s: Pierre Bietry, Doug Campbell
Monsieur Pierre, as has been his way of late, shot an excellent 41 to edge the late entering Terry Phur and his nearly equal 40 points. The Pres, in the non-paying third slot, still was pleased with his second gross 73 in as many comps.
Saturday, May 14, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight
1st Andrew Sheppard (10) 41pts
2nd Jon Haugen (10) 39pts
B Flight
1st Charles Sheppard (15) 38pts
2nd Brian Tully (18) 37pts
Ladies Flight
1st Yui Duangkaew (20) 31pts
2’s: Andrew Sheppard, Jon Haugen, Ray Dell
It apparently was Father-Son Day at the ol’ Society as Andrew Sheppard had an excellent 41 points to top out A Flight while Pops Sheppard had 38 to top out B Flight. Andrew’s MoM performance was a setback to those who believe in involuntary sterilization.
Andrew was followed in by Jon Haugen and his 39 points, whilst old friend Brian Tully had 37 to accompany Charles on the B Flight podium. Yui Duangkaew took the ladies money, as she has numerous times this year, with a modest 31 points.

The man from County Cork, Seamus “putter”

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, May18, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Seamus Cotter (12) 44pts
2nd Ian Grout (10) 36pts
3rd Brian Holden (8) 34pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (14) 42pts
2nd Don Peteresen (13) 36pts
3rd Jez Lees (15) 36pts
2’s: Ian Grout, Brian Holden, Roy Thornton, Lindsey Semple, Mick Shrosbree and Peter Henshaw
This week started the way the last one finished with the right honourable Seamus Cotter winning the ‘man of the match’ and A Flight, with an outstanding 44 points. Seamus was an incredible eight shots clear of Ian “the tile” Grout on 36 points. Brian Holden took third place with 34 points.
B Flight winner was the G.M. himself with an excellent 42 points, six shots clear of Don Peteresen who finished second with 36 points, on count back over Jez “Rigsby” Lees.
With every one back at Lewiinski’s for the presentation, the topic of the night was, what happened to last week’s medal winner? “Wireless” was speechless, if you believe that you would believe any thing. But not even he had a lot to say about his 24 points.
Tuesday, May 20, St. Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kimya Akiyama (10) 41pts
2nd Don Lehmer (13) 37 pts
B Flight
1st Terry Wagner (15) 38pts
2nd Bietry Pierre (15) 35 pts
Twenty of Lewiinski’s regulars traveled to St. Andrews to play this extremely tough but immaculate golf course. But it wasn’t tough enough for Kimya Akiyama, a new member who managed to accumulate 41 points to take top spot in A Flight. The society would like to welcome Kimya, who hails from the land of the rising sun.
The in-form Don Lehmer took second place with an impressive 37 points.
Terry Wagner won B Flight with a super 38 points. Monsieur Pierre rounded off the flight with 35 points on a count back over Joe Tynan. Joe’s card was scrutinized, and found he had indeed included all eighteen holes. Back at Lewinski’s Akiyama san rang the bell to celebrate his victory, much to the delight of the day’s competitors.
Wednesday, May 21, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Peter Hynard (13) 38pts
2nd Ivan Plunkett (23) 36pts
A small contingent of thirteen played Bangpra on Wednesday. The course is undergoing some improvements, but that did not stop Peter Hynard winning the day with an excellent 38 points.
Second place with a very creditable, but lopsided even par 36 points was Ivan Plunkett. Just missing out by one shot was Monsieur Pierre.
Friday, May 23, Treasure Hill - Stableford
1st Seamus Cotter (12) 35pts
2nd Greg Kubas (20) 33pts
This week ended the same as it began, and the same as last week ended, with the right honourable Seamus Cotter leading home the rest of the bunch on 35 points.
Greg Kubas finished two strokes behind and Brian “wireless” Wilkinson was seemingly not able to cope with his new handicap and returned the lowest card of the day (21 points) to close the week’s golf.

Fortune takes it by two at Greenwood

PSC golf from The PJ Pool Bar

Tuesday, May 20, Greenwood A & C - Stableford
1st Jim Fortune (27) 38pts
2nd Ken Hole (15) 36pts
Near Pins: Mike Jackson (2), Ken Hole
Long Putt: Willy Nachbur
Greenwood is a fine layout, excellent value for money and one of our more popular choices. But to be brutally frank it is not in the condition we are used to, particularly the A nine where we started. It is the low season and most of the heavy maintenance is undertaken at this time so we can’t complain too much. It is still well worth a visit.

Thursday winners (L-R): Willy Nachbur, David Johnson, David Gardner and Jim Walton.
I have already mentioned the low season and today we were reduced to a hard core of eight regulars competing for a reduced prize fund. In spite of the turnout, the leading scores were very good. Jim Fortune turned in the best card of the day with 38 points closely followed by Ken Hole on 36.
Mike Jackson, now elevated to the status of a ‘regular’ took two near pin prizes with Willy Nachbur taking the other. No one managed to hit A2, always a difficult target.
Thursday, May 22, The Emerald – Stableford
1st David Gardner (8) 35pts
2nd David Johnson (21) 32pts
3rd Willy Nachbur (20) 31pts
4th Jim Walton (21) 30pts
Near Pins: Paul Smylie, David Gardner, Keith Hodges
Long Putt: Ken Hole
It was hot and humid day at Emerald with a threat of rain, which fortunately didn’t materialize. Our numbers were up to a more comfortable 13 compared with the Tuesday turnout.
Emerald always attracts a few extras, and I daresay will again when we return in two weeks time. This, in spite of the head green keeper and his sadistic pin position on the top level at the seventeenth. One hapless player (and prize winner) was observed putting up the hill only to have to play the same shot again five minutes and two strokes later. His playing partner had one putt and promptly gave up.
David Gardner returned the best score of the day, 35 points. David Johnson was surprised to find himself in second place on 32, but Emerald is no pushover.
The technical prizes were evenly spread with Paul Smylie, Keith Hodges and David Gardner taking the near pins and Ken Hole the long putt. The Paradise Bar shirt presented by Paul Smylie to the player having most difficulty with the conditions was won by Ken Hole, who came second on Tuesday. Such is golf!

Four weeks to go and all to play for

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Morn, Bill, Lek, Leo, Nual, Dang, P.K., Nok, Su, Jan & Mio.

Brother D won all four points from Jack Tar and are back in first place all alone. Dang was best for Brother D with a 203 game and 557 series. Café Kronborg dropped one point back and are now in second place after winning three points from VFW Post 9876. Lek led Café Kronborg with a 209 game and 536 series.
SaBai Friday remain in third as they won three points from the fourth place team Balls Galore. Montana beat Canada taking all four points even though Canada’s Ooy had the best series with a 536 pin total. Bill Key bowled a 541 series to lead Diamond Shop to a four-point sweep over Beaver Bar & Grill.
Café Ole and House of the Golden Coin split their match at two points each with Mio leading Golden Coin, 200 game, 570 series and P.K. had a 204 game, 568 series, for Café Ole.

A League of their Own – Part 2

Howie Reed
As the League of (dart) Legends “toes the oche’” at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, for the players it will be a first step on what they hope will be a successful journey. That journey, for the 8 veteran players, will hopefully end with a vehicle for their darting skills in a competitive format for money.

“Mr. Glitter” Bobby George (pictured) will take on the “Crafty Cockney” Eric Bristow in the first round of the new League of Legends darts tournament.

The format for the 7 rounds of primary league play will be best of 12 legs (501). Each player will get two points for a win with one point awarded for a draw. Some have suggested that playing a match to a 6-6 draw is like “kissing your sister” or “brother” depending on what side of the wicket you bat from. That may be either good or bad depending on who your sister is. If your sister is Angelia Jolie or Selma Hyack you can almost hear the lads yelling, “Come on draw!”
The top four players will then play for the title on August 22 back at the Circus Tavern with the semi-finals being played best of 21 and the finals best of 31. The total prize fund is 90,000 British Pounds or 5,607,036 Baht with 934,506 Baht going to the winner.
All league play will be televised live “by” Setanta TV, a cable sports channel that is available in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. Their website, setantasports.com, provides details for ordering service which is also available on broadband. TV coverage for the opening week of competition begins at 1830 BST (British Standard Time) which is maybe 0330 (May 31) in Thailand.
The early betting favorite to win the league is the “Limestone Cowboy” Bob Anderson at 7-4. Those odds were provided by Betfred.com who are co-sponsors of the league. The second choice is the ageless one “Mr. Glitter” Bobby George at 7-2. That’s not really all that surprising as George finished runner-up recently in a tournament in Holland. Still he has been away from real “professional” competition for some time, having stuck with the BDO (British Darts Organization) when the other professionals opted for their own organization.
The longest shot on the board is the “Crafty Cockney” Eric Bristow at 16-1 who has battled “Dartitas” for many years and hasn’t been “in the mix.”
The first round matches should provide some clues as to the fitness and desire of the 8 players with two matches being competitive. Keith Deller (9-2) should have little trouble with “Not as Big as he used to be” Cliff Lazarenko (14-1). Bob Anderson (7-4) against Peter Evison (7-1) should be the best match of the evening from a darts standpoint as both have just come off the Professional Darts Council tour, which means they should both be tournament fit.
The John Lowe (7-1) vs. Dave Whitcombe (10-1) pairing will be a battle of two seasoned pro’s who both know how to score, how to double and how to handle pressure. The question is will they still remember how to score, double and handle pressure. CRS disease, “Can’t Remember Stuff”, does creep in when you’re past 50.
The featured match of the evening is Eric Bristow (16-1) against Bobby George (7-2), which may turn out to be better theatre than it is darts. Neither player lacks for confidence which they are more than willing to share.
“I see all the other (seven) players as big rivals in my quest to become champion,” said George stating the oblivious. “At the moment my only concern is Eric because I’m playing him first. I’ll sort him out then look to the next player.”
Bristow thinks that a win will make the odds-makers look foolish as they have him at 16-1. “If I can take him out in that first game it will shut everyone up!” said the “Crafty Cockney.”
This is a replay of the final of the 1980 World Championship that was held at the famous Jollees Cabaret Club in Stoke-on-Trent, England. In 1980, the third year of The Embassy as it was known, 24 players were invited with the 8 players getting a bye to the second round. The defending champion was John Lowe who went out to pal Cliff Lazarenko 2 sets to nil, after which Lowe said: “”If you miss your doubles in this one, you must expect to go out.” He did.
Eric Bristow, installed as favorite after Lowe’s exit, made it to the semi- finals without losing a set. Bristow then beat Tony Brown 4-3 to make the final.
Bobby George had not been invited to play the previous year. He made up for the “un-invite” by beating Dave Whitcombe, the late Leighton Rees and then Cliff Lazeranko.
George, playing in a sequined shirt, was presented a Liberace like candelabra before the final. It may have had some effect as George led in sets 1-0, 2-1 and 3-2. The 6th and 7th set went to Bristow for a 4-3 lead. The final set was level at 2 when George had a shot to tie the match at 4 sets each. He broke with his second dart and put his ‘arrows’ away in his pocket anticipating a Bristow check out double. Bristow did and game over.
Will the feature match of the first night of the League of (Dart) Legends provide the same drama? Maybe yes, maybe no. Maybe George will even get another candelabra.