Norman Isherwood makes a killing

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, November 24, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Richard Snelling 39pts
2nd Barry Traynor 39pts
3rd Rick Holmes 36pts
4th Peter Sumner 35pts
5th Rick Schramm 35pts
6th Brian Kelly 35pts
Richard Snelling returned from an extended stint in Kosovo to win his first tournament out of The Haven and disappoint Barry Traynor, who having started quickly with 22 points going out saw it all snatched away from him as Richard came back with 24 points on the inward half to completely overwhelm Barry’s meager 17.
Rick Holmes continues to get better as his strength slowly returns to somewhere near 50 % and another solid round of level par was good enough for third spot ahead of the group struggling over fourth. They were led in by Peter Sumner whose 22 on the count back was too good for Rick Schramm’s 17 and Brian Kelly’s 16.
Phil Groves slipped in the only ‘2’ in the first division and Dave Spendley did the same in the second division.
Wednesday, November 26, The Emerald – Stableford
Division 1
1st Norman Isherwood 44pts
2nd Peter Knight 36pts
3rd Rainer Helling 35pts
4th Dave Thomas 35pts
Division 2
1st Brian Kelly 33pts
2nd Kazuhiko Asada 33pts
3rd Chris Knapp 31pts
4th Roar Berger 31pts
5th John Teague 31pts
Two divisions again as the numbers continue to grow with the courses now playing a little easier and giving a lot more run on the drives and adding an extra dimension of pleasure for those that like to “see it go”.
Norman Isherwood doublely underlined that point as he put together his lifetime best round of a gross 76 which included a gross 35 over the inward half (also a lifetime achievement for nine holes). That all worked out to a staggering 44 points even with the disappointment of a single point on the first and last hole of the nine.
After showing some very good form in the build up to this round, it was especially pleasing for Norman to achieve this score when the wind was blowing half a gale, and he was far and away the best golfer of the day. It was suggested at the prize giving that his winnings for the day were more than he had made over the last 3 months on the UK Stock Exchange, and perhaps he should give up his day job.
Peter Knight took his first podium placing out of Soi 13 with, what was in the conditions, a very good round only to find he lagged by eight shots. Rainer Helling beat off the challenge of Dave Thomas by virtue of a better back nine of 17 against David’s 16.
The second division was a much more closely contested event with Brian Kelly getting the better of Kazuhiko Asada with a count back of 19 to 13 after Kazuhiko had had an exciting 21 points going out.
Chris Knapp took third place ahead of Roar Berger by 19 to 18 on the count back and Roar stayed ahead of John Teague as John could only manage 16 points on the back half.
Danny Greer had the only ‘2’ in the second division but Jouni Jauhiainen, Norman Isherwood and Rodney Nabbe shared the first division pool.
Friday, November 28, Phoenix (Blue Tees) - Monthly Medals
Division 1
1st Russell Exley net 71
2nd Frank Hughes net 72
3rd Rick Schramm net 75
Division 2
1st Paul Hartley net 75
2nd Bubbles Davies net 79
3rd Chris Knapp net 80
Ladies
1st Oili Helling net 82
2nd Annikka Helling net 88
Once again the monthly medals were well supported with even the addition of a ladies division for a change.
The first division was owned by Russell Exley who again put together a very nice round to beat the CSS by three strokes to record his fourth medal win of the year with a repeat of the previous month’s score. Russell must surely now be the favourite for the first division Gold Medal which will be competed for in December.
Frank Hughes was also under the CSS, and although only matching par it was good enough to take second place in front of Rick Schramm by three clear shots.
The second division was won by Paul Hartley as he took his first ever monthly medal by four shots with a very steady round of one over the CSS and with the wind blowing exceptionally hard that was no mean feat.
Bubbles Davies thought he was well out of the running as he struggled round with his old golf coach, just managing to lose to him on gross on the last hole on the way to recording a less than happy card for the day. It was still just good enough though to take second place ahead of the almost ever-present Chris Knapp by a stroke.
Oili Helling was delighted to take the top spot in the ladies division with a “never say die” round which was a just reward for Oili who never gives up or picks up in a medal no matter what. Newcomer Annikka Jauhiainen took second place although lagging some way behind.
Peter Sumner had the only ‘2’ in the first division and there were none in the second division.

Bunker Bar & PSC team up to help Thailand street kids

Thomas Cotton
We all headed to the Bodega Bar on 2nd Road and Soi Post Office in Pattaya on Tuesday, November 25, where the Bunker Bar was having its award ceremonies for the John Preddy Memorial charity golf tournament. Bodega, by the way, is a Spanish term for a winery, but this bar was mostly serving beer. “Bunker” on the other hand, is usually defined as a hardened shelter where victims can hide from incoming bombs and otherwise dangerous ordinance. So it was reassuring that the Bunker crowd were out and about.

PSC Golf Chairman Perry McNeely (right) hands a cheque for 20,000 baht to Mick Ramshaw of the Bunker Bar, one of the organisers of the 2008 John Preddy Memorial charity golf tournament.

The Pattaya Sports Club was represented by its Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely, who passed a cheque* for 20,000 baht to Mick Ramshaw of the Bunker Bar. Together with the money raised by the Bunker Bar, the funds will be passed onto Supagon Noja, Project Director of the Child Protection and Development Center (Work for Street Kids). This foundation provides for the support and education of orphans and otherwise neglected children.
Note: *The term cheque is a French word which was adopted by the English, but rejected by the Americans in favour of “check”, but for Canadians this is confusing as this spelling means bashing your hockey opponent with the intention of breaking his nose or worse.

A tie at the top but Herbie gets the nod

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

A perfect cloudy day this Tuesday, November 25 at the Pattaya Country Club as the Three Sisters groups headed out. There was some wind but unless you really hit it high there was little effect on the ball. However, the water boy seemed to have it in for the first group as he went one green ahead of us soaking the greens. A little gray cloud also followed the first group off from hole number 10 to 13 dropping some cool rain before coming to a stop.
At the end of the day all the players retired to Caddy Shack II for some of Herbie’s hot n’spicey pork sausages and a few beverages. A tally of the cards showed Herbie Ishinage and Dale Murphy coming in with identical 36s but on count back Herbie took first place. And as it’s the end of the month, he now gets his name engraved on the trophy.
The rest of the group came in with scores ranging from 33 down to 27, not bad for this group, some of which have been known to have some numbers in the teens.

The bearded Bevington brushes all aside

PSC golf with the Phoenix Tuesday Group

Mike Gerrard
Our almost full group set off on the Lakes and Ocean course (mine and many others favourite course at Phoenix) for a stableford competition today. Apart from the usual short wait at the par 3’s we moved around the course fairly quickly.
The course is still improving, but there are areas where it could be better. A warning to anyone playing in the immediate future: It seems that the ground staff have treated the greens and surrounding areas with some sort of chemical fertilizer or weed killer so please do not lick your balls (that is if you have any - well you know what I mean).
The JC look alike Rick Bevington was our victor today with a fine 40 points playing off 20 handicap, (now 18 until Saturday). In second place was Kevin (Dickie) Bird, scoring 39 points off a handicap of 18.4, enough to cut him 0.9 until Saturday, but only to 17.5, hence still off 18? Third place went to ever reliable Gary Blackburne who scored 37 points playing off handicap 4.8.
Technical prizes went to Gary Blackburne, Kevin Bird, Graham Richmond and Len Bantleman and our lucky draw prize this week went to Paul Taylor.
Next week will be our monthly medal stroke play competition with many good prizes donated. So call me on 087 091 7565 if you would like to join. All PSC members are welcome along with guests and all receive the benefit of the members guest green fee rate of 1,000 baht during the high season.
The other thing to remind all of our readers is that the PSC Christmas Party is on December 17 at the Asia Hotel. Tickets for this are on sale in the PSC Clubhouse. Members cost is 500 baht with guests paying 900 baht and Children 300 baht.
This entrance fee gives you all unlimited food and bar totally Free, plus a Free lucky draw. The star prize for the lucky draw will be 1 Baht of gold (value approx 14,000 baht). There will also be many other prizes to the total value in excess of 50,000 baht.

Hughes hogs all the trophies

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Wednesday, November 26, Pattana - Stableford
Playing Stableford at Pattana where the winning scores are usually below average wasn’t the case today for some reason. Tony Berry, who’s now playing off a more realistic handicap of twelve instead of nine when he first came to Thailand (according to him), won the A Flight with a pretty impressive 38 points, well ahead of Mashi who beat Gerry Cooney on a count back to take the runner up spot.

John Hughes (right) - The Bunker ‘golfer of the month’ for November.

Koji won the B Flight with almost as good a score with 37 points ahead of in-form John Hughes in second place (35) and Rod Stevens came in one further point behind for third place.
As this was the last game to be able to score ‘golfer of the month’ points, John Hughes made it an incredible week for him as his second place gave him the monthly trophy which will sit nicely on the mantelpiece alongside the John Preddy Memorial trophy he won earlier in the week - Well done John!
Friday, November 28, Emerald - Stableford
The Bunker Boy’s decided to have a game of “Rainbow” golf for a change, this is a game where you have to play six tee shots off the front tees, back tees and the white (middle) tees in any order by the end of the 18 holes.
So, using the Stableford scoring method we had some scores ranging from pretty good down to “rubbish” where I guess they got their tactics all wrong. The cut was set at handicap 17 and we had newcomer Richard Snellen playing off handicap 26 that won the B Flight with 38 points, Colin Stokes (35) came second and Geoff Hart (29) beat Jack Gayer on a count back to finish third.
The A Flight was decided on a count back with Paul Smith (36) having a better back nine than Gerry Cooney, some people think Gerry’s surname is “lost on a count back!” Hai Sul Chung (34) won third pace on a count back also, beating Mashi Kaneta.
Near pin prizes were shared between Richard Snellen, Hai Sul Chung, Tony Berry and Geoff Parker.

Gentlemen start your engines: ‘Racing Model Billiards’ comes to Pattaya

Toon and her cohorts swap catwalk for the green baize

Toon (far left) and the Racing Model Billiard players strike a pose with Hard Rock Director of Operations, Elyes Ben Brahim.

Vimolrat Singnikorn
Leggy fashion models playing billiards in a televised competition? What’s next, you may ask?
Well, apart from being a darling of the catwalk, pretty Thai fashion model Toon showed that she can also pot balls beautifully in the top pocket as she won an international billiards tournament and the 20,000-baht first prize at the Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya on November 22. Second place in the tournament went to Korean beauty Park Ji and in third was Thailand’s Nirakorn Trithanapud.

There was no shortage of talent on show at this pool tournament.
Fourteen Thai and Korean models graced the billiard table to promote sports and tourism in Pattaya through the Xports channel (www.xportstv.com) which is the most watched channel in Korea.
Along with major league baseball, motor racing and other sports on the channel, “Racing Model Billiards” is fast becoming one of the most popular attractions and encourages women to compete, not only with their looks, but also with their ability to pot the balls.
In the first two seasons the show was fought out between Korean beauties; season 3 included willowy blond Russians, and season 4 is now going world-wide.
Thai models were chosen to take part in this tournament as many Koreans are interested in traveling to Thailand and this was seen as a way to boost tourism, enticed by the charm of the local beauties as well as the way they handle the cues.
Along with Toon, some of the other models at the Hard Rock who did their bit for Korean sports fans were Kim Mi Kyong, Park Yu Young, Park Ji Young, Pataraporn Mahasarinun, Nirakorn Trihanapod and Wannapan Wedchasid.

Adamas tango to victory in exciting 2008 Ambassadors Cup

Tom Claytor
No effort was spared in preparation for this year’s Ambassadors Cup, held November 20-22, with the staff at Polo Escape working overtime to bring to Thailand one of the premier polo events of the year. In fact, this year was so special that they had two Ambassadors on hand to deliver the exalted cup - Their Excellencies Felipe and Thawatchai both honored the event by presenting the Ambassadors Cup to the winning team.

Their Excellencies Thawatchai and Felipe Frydam, the Argentine Ambassador to Thailand, present the Ambassadors Cup to the victorious Adamas team. (Photo by Camille)

The battles on the field were spectacular: Day one started with King Power and Polo Escape going into overtime in a tactical affair that saw King Power winning by a Golden Goal. The Carnoustie Lions then had a tremendous game against Indonesia that left everyone wondering if they might be the team to watch.
The second day though saw Polo Escape trounce the Carnoustie Lions in a huge upset, with Waqas and Suzy doing most of the damage to the Lions’ cup hopes. King Power then suffered a loss to the dynamic yellow Adamas team led by Lucas Talamoni.
On the third and final day King Power edged past Kuppa and Nusantara beat Carnoustie Lions by a single goal after Carnoustie missed three penalty attempts in a row in the final minute of play.
Meanwhile Polo Escape battled Lucas and the Adamas team in a breath-taking back and forth game with Suzy and Waqas scoring critical goals. Lucas and Federico played very physical games and the spectators were amazed by the tactics and horsemanship on the field. In the end though, it was Adamas who took the cup in what had been a stunning tournament hosted by the home teams of Kuppa and Polo Escape.
The post tournament dinner was outstanding with every imaginable wine, spirit, and manner of steak and seafood and the band brought everyone to their feet. The Tango presentation from the Argentine Embassy was a real treat, and His Excellency Felipe pirouetted across the floor for a Tango demonstration that showed how hard he has been training with the Tango dancers in Bangkok.
The most important outcome from this year’s Ambassador Cup is that the success of different clubs hosting tournaments was clearly demonstrated, and everyone is now eagerly looking forward to the next collaborative polo event.

Tinpob beats favourites to take out Pattaya Downtown 2008

Choosak Sriwajanapong, Member of Parliament in Pattaya,
 presents prizes and medals to the Division A winners.

Saksiri Uraiworn
Racing away with the trophy for the men’s downtown mountain bike competition this year, Tinpob Riyapan did superbly well to finish ahead of Thai national team riders Tanapol Jarupeng, last year’s champion, and Sittichai Ketkaewmanee, five time s national champion and bronze medal winner at the last SEA games.

It’s a bumpy ride down to the finish at Bali Hai Pier.
The “Pattaya Downtown 2008” downhill mountain bike competition took place on November 23 on a route over naval hill 5 to Bali Hai Pier, a total length of 1.7 km. The racing started in the morning with the winners going through to a second round in the afternoon: the bikers losing the least amount of points took home the trophies at the end of the day.
Apart from Tinpob’s victory, the highlights of this year’s event included SEA games silver medalist Ussanee Pradapyat taking first place in the women’s race with a time of 2:56.23 ahead of Taksaporn Kaosa-ard in second and Sirapassorn Chartkamnert from the Prachinburi team in third. Sattayanan Abdulkaree, the gold medalist from the 24th SEA games, did not participate in this event.
In the men’s category, Sittichai Ketkaewmanee, five times national champion and bronze medalist at the SEA games, lost out to Tinpob Riyapan of the Pattaya Bike Club Crazy Gang team who recorded a time of 2:24.25. Second place went to Tanapol Jarupueng with a time of 2:26.77 and third was Sittichai Ketkaewmanee in 2:27.60.
In other categories Tanakorn Wongpadklang from Prachinburi won the Downhill division B with a time of 2:35.10; Narong Klinsurai (2:36.72) was first in the Free Ride division; Noppadol Meesaeng (2:41.42) won the Hard tail event; Suebsakul Sukjanya was the Boys under 15 champion; Seksan Pomak triumphed in the 30-39 age group while Montri Boonsanae did likewise in the over 40 group; Pakorn Klaihiran was the over 85kg winner and Noppadol Intarapradit took top spot in the C division.

Gardner blooms at Eastern Star

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society returned to Eastern Star on Sunday, November 23 to find that in their absence there had been some improvement in the greens condition, but there is still scope for more in readiness for high season. Otherwise the course is quite acceptable and the large field - divided into two flights at 20 and under - enjoyed the stableford event.
In division two, sloggers Jim Proctor, Glyn Jenkins and Kazu Agune all gathered 28 points for a share of a very ordinary runner-up place whilst Jim Ferris took his first scalp this trip with 29 points.
In the top flight, Aussie Tony Thorne entered his final full week before returning to Oz with a commendable 34 points for third place, one behind Dave Smith, playing his final round before returning to the frozen wastes of Hull in north east England. The winner, taking his first position on the PGS podium, was Ted Gardner, his 38 points being the best round of the day and the sole sub-par performance.
Dave Smith and Bobby Shirkey shared the 2’s pot whilst Masanori Takano tasted his first Booby Bevy after a shabby 20-point performance which won the honour after a count back with the redoubtable Finnish duo Jorma and Matti.
Ann comes of age
The Pattaya Golf Society visited Bangpra on Tuesday, November 25 to play its final “order of merit” event of the month on the beautifully presented course. The only downside of the day was the delayed start, caused by the insertion of a large Japanese group before the PGS, which resulted in the final group coming off the course as the lights came on. Amazingly one of the last group was to feature in the minor positions later.
The two flights were cut at 23 and under and in the top flight Tony Duthie came in third with 35 points, Tony Thorne was second with 36 and Chris Holmes took the flight in style with 38 points, his gross of 79 being the best of the day.
In the second flight Pat Murphy ended his round with the lights on and found himself in third place on 30 points. Meanwhile Kazu Agune stuttered on the back nine to end with 33 in second place, and Ann Silawong was to produce one of those rounds where everything went right and a score of 44 points reflected her skill off the more forgiving red tees. It was a major win for her and will kick start her progress down the handicap lists as she so eagerly wants.
Dave Thomas took the healthy rolled over ‘2’s pot with a fine effort on the seventeenth but also put himself in line for the Booby Bevy for breaking the course dress code and sporting a “Tiger” style collarless shirt. Thankfully the starter was too preoccupied with kowtowing to the Japanese intruders to notice the infringement!
All potential PGS players are reminded that in high season sign-ups must be made by 6pm the evening before the event and unexplained “no-shows” will not be accepted for subsequent trips.
Beginner’s luck
at Treasure Hill
With trepidation the Pattaya Golf Society had pencilled in a visit to Treasure Hill on Thursday, November 27, for a stableford event, having given the club a wide berth for a number of months following problems at the turn of the year.
We found the course to be in excellent condition with only some sandy greens spoiling the scene.
Historically the course poses a huge challenge and the presence of a strong wind all day made the golfers dig deep to record good scores. The field was divided into two flights, cut at 20 and under, and those in the second division were given some relief by playing from the yellow tees.
The unfortunates in the top flight struggled all day, with Yasuo Suzuki’s 28 points being sufficient for third place. Faring better was Rick Schramm and his 33 points was a fine reward for some focused golf. The flight winner was Chris Voller who, having rediscovered his drive, returned credible figures of 34 points and the day’s best gross of 82.
In the yellow flight Kasu Agune’s 33 points claimed third place in his final round this trip, one behind Jim Ferris’s second place total of 34. The flight winner was Kazuhiko Asada, playing the course for the first time, and his innocence helped him to 35 points for his first PGS win.
David Thomas’s 7-17 split was overlooked for the Booby Bevy in favour of the experienced Scot, Ronnie Ramsay’s efforts which saw his father easily beat him in only his second competition.
There’s no hiding place at Treasure Hill and amazingly there was applause at the presentation when it was announced as the venue for the PGS’s first high season Saturday outing on December 6. Cor blimey, masochists these PGS golfers!

Colm Mullen is golfer of the week

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, November 23, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Dave Stockman (5) 39pts
2nd Ben O’Connor (11) 39pts
3rd Phil Mitchell (6) 38pts
B Flight
1st Bruce Mcadam (18) 39pts
2nd Albert Mcevoy (18) 38pts
3rd Mick Shrosbree (15) 37pts
Near Pins: Colin Davis, Albert McEvoy, Pete Emslie, Phil Mitchell.
2’s: Mick Shrosbree, Yui Bietry, Pete Emslie, Dave Stockman, Phil Mitchell and Peter Lenoury.
Baan Jing Jai Hidden Six: 1st Bruce Macadam, 2nd Seamus Cotter
It was a quiet and very sad week, although the society turned out in its solid numbers. The greens are slowly improving, as the scores would indicate. The junior flight was won by Bruce Skippy Mcadam on 39 points, which also gave him a share of man of the match, Albert McEvoy took second spot just one adrift, and Mick Shrosbree filled the flight podium with 37 on a count back over the unlucky Andy Rahim.
The senior flight was sorted out after a count back between Dave Stockman and Ireland’s Big Ben O’Connor, both on 39 points. Dave’s maths was a little better on the back nine so he was declared the winner and also gained a share of man of the match. Phil “The Diver” Mitchell rounded out the flight in third place with 38, again on a count back over Ian Halfpenny and Ireland’s Jimmy Day.
Monday, November 24, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Takashi Hakozaki (12) 36pts
2nd Justin Fowlis (14) 33pts
B Flight
1st Colm Mullen (15) 34pts
2nd Brian Cooper (25) 32pts
Mountain Shadow was host to the Lewiinski’s gang for the second Monday running. The course played long and tough with no competitor breaking par. However A Flight’s Takashi Hakozaki shot a fine even par 36 points which was plenty good enough for first place and man of the match honours. Runner up was Scouse Justin Fowlis, three shots short on 33 points.
The winner of B Flight was the ever smiling Irishman Colm Mullen, going one better than last week’s second place finish. Brian Mini Cooper carded 32 points to finih second.
Colm had a even bigger smile than usual back at Lewiinski’s, as he shared the 2’s pot with Ron Portis.
Wednesday, November 26, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight
1st Lee Adelly (13) 40pts
2nd Don Lehmer (12) 38pts
3rd Joe Mcardale (13) 38pts
4th Ted Lodge (11) 36pts
B Flight
1st Peter Henshaw (16) 39pts
2nd Kurt Erik Persson (25) 39pts
3rd Andy Rahim (27) 37pts
4th Colm Mullen (15) 35pts
Bangpra and the resident monkeys welcomed the Lewiinski’s gang on Wednesday. The course was in great condition, and so was Lee Adelly who stormed to man of the match, and A Flight victory with a terrific 40 points. Don Lehmer took second place with 38 on a count back over Joe ‘lederhosen’ Mcardle, while Ted Lodge rounded out the flight in fourth place on count back over Liam McGuiness.
B Flight saw the Chairman Peter Henshaw take top spot on count back over Kurt Erik Persson, both tied on 39 points. Andy Rahim with 37 took third place, leaving the fourth spot to Colm Mullen on 35, again on count back over Brian Mini Cooper.
Now I know that there is nothing in an accumulation of 35 points to warrant such headlines, but Colm Mullen is such a nice fellow that the headline committee felt it only fair as he has finished in the frame four times this last week, plus he got ‘One Ball’ dissed out of his head on Sunday night. The time was right. Well played Colm.
Peter Henshaw, Brian Cooper, Lee Adelly, Don Lehmer and Dom Downie shared the 2’s pot.
Friday, November 28, Phoenix - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kris K (6) 37pts
2nd Jimmy Day (13) 36pts
3rd Benny O’Connor (11) 34pts
B Flight
1st Geoff Kubas (21) 37pts
2nd John O’Leary (21) 34pts
3rd Peter Henshaw (16) 33pts
The Lewiinski’s gang, headed south about ten miles down the 3 road to Phoenix, to take on the Ocean and Lakes layouts. I was informed by Lewiinski’s meteorologist that the wind was strong and blasting in from the north which made it a bit tricky for the golfers, but not so tricky for the meteorologist who was sitting on his Jomtien balcony.
The senior flight produced a share of ‘man of the match’ in the form of Kris K with a fair 37 points, Jimmy Day on 36 was placed second and Big Benny O’Connor rounded out the flight with 34 after a count back with Justin Fowlis.
The champion in the junior flight was Geoff Kubas on 37 points, and co man of the match. Second place was filled by John O’Leary with 34 and scraping home in third place was Chairman Mao Peter Henshaw on 33.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Any one wishing to play with us just pop in, and add your name to the list or call Bob on 080 096 8232. Transport is provided.

Sports activity fundraiser nets 270,000 baht for Nong Khai Orphanage

The Bowling Green “Fours” winners are seen
with representatives from the fundraising groups.

Barry Hooper
It is quite amazing what can be achieved from a simple idea and a little ingenuity if a few dedicated and well-intentioned people get involved. Such is the following case.
A number of local Pattaya business owners/managers and sports enthusiasts felt that they wanted to raise funds for a worthwhile cause and have a good time in the process.
The subject of the Nong Khai Orphanage at Sangelli House in the North of Thailand was raised by one such individual and suggested that it would be a great idea if it were only possible to give the children Christmas gifts. Please bear in mind that this is now the beginning of November so there was not long to Christmas and something had to be done quickly.
So a plan was born.
Dave Mayes and Steve Lake at the Bowling Green, Pattaya, Keith Fortt at the Caddyshack Hotel and Bar, Albert James at The Retreat Lawn Bowls Club in Nongprue, Jerry from Ornate Plastering, Kenny from the Boxing Roo Pattaya and Paul from the Paradise Bar (who ran raffles raising 2,500 baht) were such people.
It was decided to run as many activities as possible along with two lawn bowls tournaments (one at the Bowling Green the other at The Retreat) all this to take place and raise the funds along with raffles at the bars and any prizes that were donated being auctioned off etc.
In addition to this, approaches were made to the local offices of BUPA with the proposal that they, through Donna & Bernie Pollard in Pattaya, could come on board with their support. They immediately offered to match the amount of any funds raised and in addition supply prizes both an “Annual Trophy” plus supply 2008 winner trophies for the bowls tournament at the Bowling Green, this all from finances that were available outside Thailand for worthwhile concerns.
So over the next four weeks, culminating in the last event being held on November 28, a total of 100,475 baht was raised. This was subsequently topped up with a generous donation of a further 35,000 baht from Perry at the Rose & Thistle on Theppasit in Jomtien.
The winners of the bowls events for the record were as follows: Triples at The Retreat – Tong, Harvey (2) and Tanom; Fours at the Bowling Green – Dennis, Tony, Chris and Nut.
A big thank you must really go out to everyone concerned and to all the bowlers who took part in the tournaments plus all those who dipped into their pockets to raise the finances for such a worthwhile cause. Well done all of you.

Alan does it again

Diana Seniors and Ladies November Open

Nigel Cannon
Fifty seniors and ladies arrived at Pattaya Country Club on November 27 for the last Diana Open of the year.

Super Seniors winner Alan Pearce (left) with Seniors winner Roger Johansson (right), Ladies winner Birgitta Luning (center) and Emcee Nigel Cannon.

With this number the management asked us to have a 2-tee start. This was a good idea as it was less time to wait for the presentation of the prizes. With no ‘intruders’ at either of the half way stages it led to rounds of about 4 hours.
With a booked tee time of 0900 all players were check in by 0850 and then off to the start to find the course in fair condition but very windy.
With this wind it was thought unlikely that any would beat their handicap – wrong! All three flight winners did but it was Alan Pearce who was top of the pile with 40 points, winning his second Super Senior success since he became 65 in July.
Before the presentation Nigel Cannon thanked Pattaya Country Club for their help to himself and Mike Franklin during the year.
Nigel also congratulated Roger Stromstedt and John Clements who both had eagles, and that wily old fox Arthur Bailey who birdied the index three 17th Hole.
The next Diana Seniors and Ladies open is at Pattaya Country Club on Thursday, January 29. Sign up at Green Bottle on 2nd Road or at Diana Driving Range.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

Saturday night or Sunday morning, depending where you live, boxing fans will be gathered around their TV sets or settled in at their local for the fight of the year. On Saturday evening at about 9 p.m. local time in Las Vegas, Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao will rush towards each other as the opening bell rings in their titanic battle.
It has been the most anticipated fight in Pattaya since Monkey House Fred and one of his ex’s were arguing over a red motorbike that was hidden at a Pineapple farm whose major crop was nurturing dumb farangs.
From today onward there are 19 major fight cards on the books in 11 countries with England hosting two of the biggest. In Nottingham at the FM Arena, Carl Froch at 23-0 will defend his WBC super-middle title against Jean Pascal, also undefeated.
The card at the ExCel in London was to have featured Nicky Cook (29-1) defending his WBO jr. lightweight crown against Stephen Foster (24-2-1). Scratch that one. Cook has withdrawn following “professional medical advice”. The cause was later change to “flu”. Cynics would call it the “not in shape flu.”
Still the card is filled with ‘come back’ boxers: Enzo Maccarinelli (28-2) gets back in the ring for the first time since he was put to bed by David Haye. Another looking to regain some of his shine is Amir Khan (18-1) who should have no trouble with Oisin Fagan. Also on the ExCel card is Audley “Fraudly” Harrison - should anyone care.
Thailand boxing results
IBF Pan Pacific featherweight champ and former Bangkok prison inmate Pathomchoke Pathompothong (15-0) defended his title for the second time at Bangkothornburi University where he is now a student. Indonesian La Amia Laila (14-5) battled with courage only to have the fight stopped after round 7 when his left eye closed shut. Out of the “Grey Bar Inn” since July, Pathompong is a prospect.
WBC straw-weight champion, Oleydong Sithsamerchai (29-0), successfully defended his title for the second time against WBC #1 Pornsawan Kratingdaenggym (21-2) at the City Hall Ground in Pisanulok, Thailand. He won it with a UD (120-108, 118-110, 117-113) that was never in doubt.
Now Sithsamerchai must defend against Juan Palacios (25-2) the “interim champion”. Now you may ask “how can there be a champion and an interim champion?” ‘No EYE DEAR. Only a cynic would say it’s because Palacios fought at the WBC convention in China on the other hand.
The Fight
The most anticipated fight of the year and maybe the century takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada Sunday morning about 9 a.m. Thai Time. The principles are household names with boxing fans and known by all. Oscar de La Hoya (39-5) meets Manny Pacquiao (47-3-2) in a fight that will be the biggest PPV non-heavyweight boxing event in history.
Unlike many boxing events in the past, this one is not all hype, spin or ‘smoke and mirrors.’ Whether you’re sipping Bloody Mary’s at the Yorkshire Inn in Patong Beach, or joining the crowed at Jameson’s (who were jammed for the Hatton fight) in Pattaya or just with friends in front of the TV, you’re going to see a titanic battle over 12 three minute rounds or less.
The Fighters: Oscar De La Hoya
Oscar De La Hoya parlayed an Olympic Gold medal from the 1992 games in Barcelona into a boxing and business enterprise that has eclipsed anything ever done before. Since turning pro in 1992 Oscar has been the world champion in 7 different weight classes, which prompted sometimes funny man George Lopez to quip, “He’s made more money at different weight classes than Oprah.”
In the ring from 1992 to 1999 De La Hoya went 31-0 with 24 KO’s. During that time he fought and beat every big name in boxing. They were defeated by “El Mano de Oro”. If that doesn’t mean “Hands of Gold” then sue the internet.
His victims included Ike Quartey, Julio Caesar Chavez (twice), Hector “Macho” Camacho, Pernell Whitaker, Jorge “The Clown” Paez and even Jeff Mayweather.
Born and raised in the barrio of East Los Angeles, and unlike many others from that area, De La Hoya has succeeded far beyond anyone’s comprehension. Outside the ring he owns Golden Boy Promotions, Ring Magazine, has a recording Grammy, a “double down” beautiful wife and he can fight.
Manny Pacquiao
There is no question but that Manny Pacquiao is the most valuable Philippine treasure since they auctioned off Imelda Marcos’ shoe collection. Unlike De La Hoya, he has made his money in the ring building a record of 47-3 while holding world titles at three different weights.
Pacquiao has ties to Thailand as he won the WBO flyweight title in 1998 by Ko’ing Chatchai Sasakul in 8. He would hold the title a little over 9 months before losing it to Medgoen Singsurat via a 3-round KO. He burst upon the international boxing scene when, as a huge underdog, he knocked the stuffing out of Lehlohonolo Ledwaba in Las Vegas to win the IBF super-bantam title. It took him only 6 rounds.
His only bump on the road lately was a UD loss to Erik Morales. That loss he avenged via a 10th round KO less than a year later. He is a come forward “I’ll take your best shot and deliver mine” kind of fighter. He’s won titles starting at 109lbs up to 144lbs. Pacquiao fights for himself, for money, but more importantly for the people of the Philippines whose pride and courage should never be in question.
It’s possible that sure to be ‘Hall of Fame’ trainer Freddie Roach may prove a negative though. Lately Roach has forgotten the old adage (there are no young adages), to make sure that your brain is engaged before your mouth gets in motion.
Speaking to the press Roach said, “I question De La Hoya’s mental state, his training routine, his trainer, his right hand, his ability to deal with left-handers in the ring, his age and his stamina.” Not done he added, “Oscar loses focus in there. His mind wanders. It’s just that mentally he loses sight of the game plan at times. He blamed me for the loss to Mayweather, and hopefully he’ll be blaming me for losing this one too. Some people are weak-minded, like Oscar. Some people are strong-minded, like Manny.”
That’s called bulletin board material; as if De La Hoya needs any. Nothing like a lover scorned.
Who’ll win...?
Oscar De La Hoya is a heavy betting favorite at about –2.10 (that means you bet 2.10 of something to get your bet back and 1.00 of something). Pacquiao is anywhere from +1.70 to +1.95.
While the wise guys are usually correct, this fight could prove a puzzler. There are many different aspects that make a selection difficult. Who has the advantage - the fighter going up in weight (Pacquiao) or the fighter moving down (De La Hoya)?”
They’ll fight at 147lbs which should put De La Hoya in the best shape of his career since 2001 and his destruction of Arturo Gatti. Pacquiao will be his heaviest yet and considering that in his last out against a lethargic David Diaz he didn’t look in shape (or powerful), it leaves unanswered questions. Edge here to Oscar.
How did the fighters train and what do the trainers actually bring to the table? Oscar has been through all the best trainers in boxing during his career. The latest is “Nacho” Bernstien, a legend in training Mexican boxers. Oscar also added as a consultant Angelo Dundee. Dundee came to public attention when he trained Ali. “I’ll look at a tape on both fighters and if I see something to help Oscar, I’ll pass it along,” said Dundee.
Oscar has run his Big Bear training camp high in the mountains like an NFL facility: his training timed to take place at the same time as the actual fight. In training he spars 12 rounds each day. It’s possible that with all the trainers over the years the old adage comes into play in regard to cooking, “Too many cooks spoil the broth.”
Pacquiao trains in the heart of Los Angeles at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym. He comes in each day at 4 p.m., does his work then leaves for family and friends. Each sparing partner is in camp to extend Pacquiao each and everyday. A sparing partner that gets a knockdown gets a $1,000 bonus. None have collected yet.
“The Philippine people tend to group together,” says trainer Roach. So Pacquiao’s living arrangements include wife, kids and 20 or so camp members. Trainer Roach has made a number of what some may claim are foolish statements regarding De La Hoya who he trained at one time. “De La Hoya is a part time fighter. He only fights once a year,” says Roach. Will that matter?
Neither De La Hoya nor Pacquiao has ever gotten any breaks in the judging in Las Vegas fights. Both are in peril this time should the fight go the full 12 as one of the judges is the absolute worst in the history of boxing. TSR will not mention a name but it does provide a visual credibility to the demise of the Nevada Athletic Commission as a leader in the sport.
A game plan is probably less important with Pacquiao as he will come out swinging and keep at it. De La Hoya should maybe think a little less and just flat fight. He does “think” too much at times. Mistakes against Pacquiao are usually not a factor as he’s going to do what he does. To win De La Hoya will have to fight big, strong and smart. He will. Look for a late round TKO.
Jeeves Time
“Your Lordship, I’ve been thinking that maybe we ought to turn TSR green - to do our part to help the fight against global warming.”
“OK Jeeves here’s the deal. The only green I want to see is the candela wrapper on my cigars. That means clean out the fridge cause there’s a lot of green in there that started out a different color. Now lager, music and a cigar, if you would be so kind - Cheewit dee krap!”

Badger hangs on for monthly award

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, November 25, Greenwood – Stableford
Well it was back to Greenwood this week for a change. I say a change because despite playing Greenwood last Thursday and Friday, this time we were to play the B & C Nines so it really was a change. The fact that the B had its greens sanded and the C greens were really slippery fast was no problem; it was just like coming home. I should have booked a room and saved myself the journey.

Nid (left) presents the ‘Alan Bolton Golfer of the Month’ prize to Badger.

The course was nearly empty, and I wonder if this is because of the financial climate or the fact they have raised prices to the level of most courses nearer Pattaya? We did however fly around and our three-ball finished in a time closer to 3 hours than 4. Happy days! Throw in some perfect weather and this should have meant some really big scores. Well we shall see.
We were able to jump in our cars and zoom back to Pattaya nice and early, and this was good for one of our players who had been ‘Badgering’ me all week as he wanted to win the ‘Alan Bolton Property Consultants Golfer of The Month’ award.
The final day really was between Badger and Peter Whitehead, and the one who finished ahead and in the winners circle would be the victor. I played with Badger and he was woeful, so as we waited it all depended on how well Peter played. Beat his handicap and he would win.
Back at Bert’s as the winners were declared it was obvious that nobody had beaten their handicap. The winner with 36 points was Brian Blackford, second was Colin Cronin with 35 and in third was Steve Hamstad with 34. We then had a four-way count back on 33 points that saw Les Burns in fourth and Don Carmody in fifth, with Dick Warberg and Jack Robertson just losing out.
Yes, Badger held on and got his name in lights. So the ‘Alan Bolton Property Consultants Golfer of the Month’ was indeed Badger. Well done! T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Les Burns, Steve Hamstad, Pat Morrisey
Long Putt: Colin Cronin

Golfer taken ill at Plutaluang

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
All the member players of the TRGG were gravely concerned for the well being of a fellow golfer, Nick Jones, who was taken ill whilst playing in the Saturday event this week at Plutaluang. Nick collapsed whilst out on his round of golf and returned back to the clubhouse to rest up only to have another bad turn.

Saturday’s division winners: Ted Senior and Mod Chaviraksa.

The staff at Plutaluang immediately responded and must be congratulated on the way they handled the matter and were truly on the ball as without haste they transported him to Sattahip hospital for treatment. After a check up and treatment, I am happy to report that he has now recovered from the incident.
But this shows as a warning to all golfers that full care must be taken in preparing for a day out golfing and to fully hydrate with plenty of fluid intake whilst on the course.
Monday, November 24, Treasure Hill – Stableford
1st Jerry McCarthy (13) 35pts
2nd Bill McGarvie (11) 31pts
3rd Jack McNamara (20) 31pts
4th Ito Akitoshi (9) 31pts
5th Peter Ring (21) 30pts
Monday saw us take a trip to Treasure Hill, a place we had not been for some time. This is yet another class course and again not the easiest about. Numbers attending were good but one division only under the new format to have only one or two divisions on the day and increase the payout quantities.
The win went to Jerry McCarthy with his thirty-five pointer, four ahead of Bill McGarvie who took second place after a count back over Jack McNamara and Ito Akitoshi. In fifth spot was Peter Ring, also a winner of a three-way count back.
The best front nine score went to Andy Galvin with sixteen points and the back nine best to Robert Wood with seventeen. There were no ‘2’s on the day so the bell was rung back at the presentation.
Tuesday, November 26, Emerald - Stableford
Division 1
1st Jimmy Woulfe (14) 34pts
2nd Larry Simpson (8) 34pts
3rd Phil Knight (10) 34pts
4th Mike Sanders (9) 34pts
Division 2
1st Danny Whelan (15) 36pts
2nd Seamus Farrell (35) 36pts
3rd Tony Perry (15) 36pts
4th Jimmy Chawke (16) 35pts
2’s: Edward Graham, Larry Simpson, Mod Chaviraksa, Tony Jones, Mike Rushant
Emerald Golf Club was the venue on Tuesday for a large group who found the course to be in very good condition.
Two full divisions were played and the winner of the second flight was Danny Whelan after a count back thirty-six over Seamus Farrell second and Tony Perry third. The premier division spoils went to Jimmy Woulfe, this time after a four-way count back over Larry Simpson (second) Phil Knight (third) and Mike Sanders (fourth).
There were five ‘2’s recorded by Edward Graham at the 5th, Larry Simpson at the 7th, and Mod Chaviraksa, Tony Jones and Mike Rushant all at the 13th.
For the ‘near pin’ prize a voucher from Shenanigans was on offer. This was graciously donated by Ito Akitoshi who won the PSC Open at Greenwood.
It was to be the last outing for Jimmy Woulfe, but like many others he is still with us after being unable to return to his native Ireland after the seizure of Bangkok Airport. I am not sure he was too disappointed at now being able to enjoy a few more outings with us before his departure.
Thursday, November 28, Phoenix (Mountain and Lakes) - Stableford
Division 1
1st Bill McGarvie (12) 35pts
2nd Matt Gibbons (9) 35pts
3rd Edward Graham (10) 34pts
4th Mod Chaviraksa (13) 33pts
Division 2
1st John O’Leary (18) 35pts
2nd Chris Parr (17) 33pts
3rd Jack McNamara (20) 31pts
4th Neil Allison (18) 31pts
2’s: Bill McGarvie, Matt Gibbons, Jack McNamara, Brendan Moore
Thursday meant it was our weekly visit to Phoenix Mountain and Lakes. The entry was again even better than last week so two flights and four places per division.
In the second division (17-up) John O’Leary was the winner with thirty five points; Chris Parr came second on thirty-three, and Jack McNamara took third after a count back over Neil Allison at thirty one.
The top division saw Bill McGarvie victorious after a count back over Matt Gibbons, both with thirty five points, in third was Edward Graham one point behind, and in fourth came Mod Chaviraksa after beating Jerry McCarthy on a count back.
Four ‘2’s were recorded by Bill McGarvie at the 4th, Matt Gibbons at the 8th and Jack McNamara and Brendan Moore at the 11th.
Saturday, November 29, Plutaluang – Stableford
Division 1
1st Mod Chaviraksa (13) 37pts
2nd Larry Simpson (8) 35pts
3rd Jimmy Woulfe (13) 34pts
Division 2
1st Ted Senior (17) 39pts
2nd Danny Whelan (14) 35pts
3rd Robert Wood (17) 34pts
2’s: Jimmy Chawke and Larry Maxet
Saturday we went to Plutaluang as part of the new weekend schedule. We had extremely good participation but despite an early start time it was a protracted day’s play with a large amount of other four-balls being slotted in on one of the nines. This resulted in quite a late finish and most rounds taking around five hours.
The day was also marred a little when one player was taken ill on the course and ended up having to have hospital treatment (see headline comment).
The second division honours (14-up) went to Ted Senior with the highest score of the day at thirty nine points, four up on Danny Whelan in second, with Robert Wood taking third on count back over Chris Parr.
In the top flight it was a win for Mod Chaviraksa on thirty seven points with Bill McGarvie two back in second and Jimmy Woulfe third after winning the count back over Fergus Brennan.
The 2’s pot was shared by Jimmy Chawke and Larry Maxet.

Rich Montana returns and bowls 624

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

Rich Montana, bowling for the first time since arriving back from the U.S., bowled games of 202, 221 and 201 for a 624 series and won many beers at the same time. VFW Post 9876 took three points from Montana and are back in a tie for first place. Aht rolled a 541 series and Tui a 514 for VFW.
Sue bowled a 567 series and Nok a 544 to lead Sabai Sabai Friday to a three-point win over House of the Golden Coin. Barry rolled a 231 game, 567 series for Golden Coin. Café Kronborg remains in the top four after taking three points from Brother D. La bowled a 533 series to lead Montgomery to a three point win over Café Ole and they moved up into sixth place. Bavaria and Canada split their match with each team getting two points.
Some really good scores were recorded in the normally tough lanes 5 and 6. Leo had games of 201, 197, 203, 601 series, Tue a 207 game, 553 series, Ooy had a 214 game, 570 series and Joe a 530 series. Mai bowled a 557 series for Jack Tar but it was not enough as her team lost three to Sala Thai.

Canucks in conquering form at Ray Rogers Thanksgiving Day scramble

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

The winning team from Burapha; Larry Simpson, Mike Sanders, Mike Rushant and Denny Whelan with Emcee Dave (far right).

Derek Brook
Monday, November 24, Plutaluang - Stableford
Plutaluang South and East layouts were the venue for a stableford competition in two flights, with the cut at handicap 18. The course on the day was in tidy condition and very busy for a Monday with three local groups in attendance, this owing to its great value for money.
Mike Rushant took the A Flight with an amazing 42 points ahead of young Morten Nielsen with 40 points in second (this was a gross 70), and Mike Sanders was third with 37 points.
In the B Flight the winner was the ‘Man of the Present’ as Mike Winfield won again with 40 points, and in second was Dave Richardson with 35 points on count back over Henry O’Brien in third.
Near Pins: Mike Rushant (2), Morten Nielsen, Eric Hansen
Long Putt: Ebrahim, Juha Raatari
Friday, November 28, Burapha – Ray Rogers Thanksgiving Scramble
Once again we gathered, as we have been for this day since it was first held from Caesars Bar on Beach Road when we used to go back to Papa Rays for the after competition food. This year, as it has been for some years, we left from The Cafe Kronborg and returned there afterwards, with Ray no longer being with us, but Gary and Dave keeping it going.
The course was to be Burapha where we would take on the C & D ‘Nines’ and with the wind howling we knew this was going to be a really tough test. And it was.
The turnout was rather disappointing but with the airport blocked it was not really too surprising, we did however have 13 groups that Tee’d off, some on the C course and some on the D. It did not really matter which you started on, the wind was brutal and all the players struggled. The course was, as ever, in fine condition and some of the views from D8 and D9 are truly magnificent.
We were able to get around quickly and it was not long before we were in the cars and on our way back. With the food not being on until 6pm, some went home for a break while others went straight to The Cafe Kronborg for an early start.
It wasn’t long before Bjarne declared the food ready and all got stuck into their meal. This part of the proceedings usually takes quite a bit of time, and this night was no different, however all good things must come to an end and soon Dave was seen limbering up for his role as Emcee.
We usually try to get Dave to read the results out quickly so we can get to the important part, the ‘Lucky Draw’, but he always insists on taking his time, at least the ‘Pipe’ has gone now.
So to the competition; and in third place with a net 60.6 was the team of Danny Medd, Noodle Russel, Egon Neilsen and Chaching. In second place came the team of Tony Duthie, Chris Holmes, Neil McAllister and Lenny Bantelmann. Finally to the winners, and the Canadians were here in town. Most of the year they cannot play as snow covers the ground in Canada and it is dark most of the time. That’s when they come over here to annoy us, especially when they win. However, to give them their due the fact is they won because they had the best score. So the winners were announced as Larry Simpson, Mike Sanders, Mike Rushant and Denny Whelan. Well done all.
We then got on with ‘The Lucky Draw’ and why not! T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Neil McAllister, Steve Hamstad, Fred Gemme, Brian Kelly
Long Putt: Russel Exley, Richard Snelling

Beautiful Game? by Riz Taylor

Bolton for the title?

An intriguing weekend just gone: United managed to overcome Citeh, and Arsenal’s season isn’t quite over after a miraculous win at Stamford Bridge.  Sunderland are rubbish, Fulham continue to impress, and more surprising than any of this is that Gary Megson could turn out to be a half-decent manager after all as Bolton, much to the surprise of even their own followers, are going along rather nicely as they claimed their fourth win in five matches.  Who knows what to make of it all, but it’s turning out to be the most intriguing season in a few years and so you won’t read any complaints here if that remains the case.
But enough about results and onto the weekend’s fixtures.  Fulham versus Manchester City kicks us off on Saturday, and this might actually be worth a watch.  The Londoners are making a decent fist of a season that many expected to be a constant battle against relegation, whilst City don’t get three points unless they win by three goals or more, as has been the case with all their victories this season.  Smarting from defeat in the Manchester derby, they’ll be up for this one.  Which Manchester City will turn up?
Roy Keane announced last week that he may end his relationship with Sunderland at the end of this season, but he’ll be lucky to last that long after a 4-1 mullering at home by Bolton.  This week it’s Manchester United – Away!  That’s the late one on Saturday and worth watching only if you’re a United fan or some sort of sicko who enjoys seeing people suffer.  If there’s a sweepstake running, can I have 4-0?
Everton and Villa play on Sunday if that’s your kind if thing, whilst West Brom face Portsmouth earlier on.  Pompey are playing some terrific football at the moment and so are West Brom, despite results not going their way, and this is one of those boring-sounding fixtures that could b a real belter.  Monday’s game – or early Tuesday morning in Pattaya – will be Spurs against West Ham at Upton Park.
And finally, it may not have taken top billing as one of the weekend’s top derby encounters, but Swansea and Cardiff City’s first league meeting in nine years would surely rival any match for incident.  Four goals, eight bookings - including two red cards - and a controversial penalty made for a scintillating affair at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium.  Oh, and it ended 2-2.
Cup shockers
League Two clubs were subjected to more FA Cup embarrassment as Eastwood Town from the Northern Premier League and Blue Square Premier strugglers Forest Green knocked out Wycombe Wanderers and Rochdale respectively.  Leeds United were beaten by Histon, the Cambridgeshire village side playing in the Eastern Counties League Division One in as recently as 1996.  Ten years and five promotions later they’re playing in the top non-league division.  Remember the name.
In the draw for the third round, Preston North End versus Liverpool and Macclesfield Town at home to Everton promise to be interesting fixtures, and Derby County’s manager Paul Jewell will surely not fancy taking his side to Forest Green Rovers, also of the Blue Square Premier League.  Blyth Spartans could end up facing Black­burn if they can safely negotiate Bournemouth, and yet another Blue Square side, Barrow, were handed a trip to Premier League Middlesbrough.
“The North-east coast, the glorious beaches, the Riverside Stadium, what more could you want?” said their chairman Brian Keen.
Kinnear stays
Joe Kinnear has signed a contract as manager of Newcastle United until the end of the season.  He arrived at St James’ Park as interim boss in September and will now stay for another six months as owner Mike Ashley continues to try to sell the club.
“Ever since I came to Newcastle I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” said Kinnear, who was a controversial choice as Magpies manager.  His previous job ended when he resigned as Nottingham Forest boss in 2004.
Torres speaks
“The Premier League is way ahead of the Spanish League,” said Liverpool striker Fernando Torres other day.  “You go to a team in the relegation zone and you find yourself playing on a perfect pitch, with the stands full to bursting and opponents who are there to play football.  Even if they lose, the crowd are going to cheer them on until the death.  You see this only in British football.  It isn’t easy to adapt, but once you have you would have trouble wanting to play anywhere else.”
Food, booze
and screws
A new study featured in Four Four Two magazine has revealed that almost two million adult football fans have pre-match rituals designed to bring their teams luck.
In the study, commissioned by bankers MBNA for reasons best known to themselves during a financial crisis, more than a third of fans say they go for a “lucky” drink before the game, drink in a particular pub or even drink left-handed.  See any trend there?  And apparently if their side loses it doesn’t stop them from trying the same routine the following week.
Did we really need a survey to tell us this?  Moving on from booze, many fans have a ‘lucky’ item of clothing: 21% wear the same scarves, socks or underpants that once brought the team good fortune.  One in 10 fans eats a particular meal before the match, and one in 11 will ensure they take the same route to every game.  Presumably past the “lucky” pub.
Top 10 rituals:
1. Lucky drink before or during the game (35 percent)
2. Lucky clothing, from scarves to pants (21 percent)
3. Eating a particular meal or visiting a lucky burger van (10 percent)
4. Taking the same route to every game (9 percent)
5. Placing a bet before kick-off (4 percent)
6. Having sex before the game (3 percent)
7. Using the same parking spot on match day (3 percent)
8. Using a lucky toilet before the game starts (3 percent)
9. Praying (3 percent)
10. Listening to a particular piece of music (2 percent)

Lars has a week to remember

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

Glyn Evans
Monday, November 24, Plutaluang – Stableford
It was a smaller field than normal for this time of the year, with just 27 players out on the West and North courses. I think they were saving themselves for the club championship on the Wednesday.

John Seymour presents the club championship winner’s trophy to Lars Strom.
The divisional cut was made at 19-up and in division 2, Rick Newman’s 31 points earned him third place, just one point behind Roger Ribbins in second. The winner of the division with 34 points was Lars Strom.
Two people fought for second position in division 1 with John Smith beating Harry Riley on count back after they both came in with 35 points. The in-form Ted Morris won the division with 36 points.
Ted Morris and Jean Morel share the ‘2’s pot in division 1 after birdies on the 8th and 3rd holes on the west course. Gordon Everingham and Roger Ribbins shared the rollover pot in the second division after both players birdied the 8th hole on the west course.
Near Pins went to Ben Findon, Jean Morel (3), Martin Anderton, Gordon Everingham and Roger Ribbins.
Wednesday, November 26, Phoenix – The Club Championship
(Round 1)
Division 1
1st Bill Hewitt 37pts
2nd Harry Riley 36pts
3rd Kevin Walsh 34 pts
Division 2
1st Ben Findon 39pts
2nd Mam Morel 37 pts
3rd Lars Strom 37pts
Division 3
1st Glyn Evans 31pts
2nd Miss Nom 30pts
3rd Ken Foster 29pts
Near Pins: Bill Hewitt, Ted Morris, Raivo Velsberg, Kevin Walsh, Kari Aarnio, Russell Benson , Jim Connelly, Mam Morel, Terry Cowell, JoeKubon and Josie Monks.
Long Drives: Ted Morris, Sassa, Joe Kubon, Miss Oam

Ladies winner Miss Nom (center) with Mam Seymour and Miss Faa.
Our second annual Club Championship, this year generously sponsored by Northern Thai Realty, was a 36-hole stableford competition played at Phoenix on Wednesday and Eastern Star on Friday. The championship was split into 3 divisions with a total of 44 players taking part.
Our selection for the first day was the Mountain and Lake ‘Nines’ at Phoenix and on a perfect day weather wise, all 11 groups teed off on their allocated time slot. The cut for the daily competition was 6-14 division 1, 15-19 division 2 and 20+ division 3; this represented an equal number in all three divisions.
From the score you can see it was a close contest to follow on to the last day with only a 6-point differential for the last two groups out as a descending order was in play.
Mam Morel scored the only birdie ‘2’ on the day to scoop the pot division 2. Meanwhile, putting himself into the frame for the 2-day ladies tipple was Jimmy Johnson who hit a good drive on the 18th hole but his ball hit a tree at around 75yds out and then amazingly rebounded back on to the tee.
Friday, November 28, Eastern Star - The Club Championship (Round 2)
Division 1
1stRaivo Velsberg 36pts
2nd Srithong Tann 33pts
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki 32pts
Division 2
1st Lars Strom 39pts
2nd Paddy Wilson 37pts
3rd Kari Aarnio 36pts
Division 3
1st Miss Nom 36pts
2nd Jimmy Johnson 35 pts
3rd Rick Newman 35pts
Near Pins: Mikael Andersson, Takeshi Hakozaki, Raivo Velsberg (2), Mam Morel, Howard Stanley, Lars Strom, Paddy Wilson, Andy Crabb, Miss Nom and Miss Oam.
Long Drive: Kevin Walsh, Paddy Wilson, Joe Kubon, Srithong Tann.
On arrival at the course there was a very strong northerly wind blowing and many of the players were anticipating a tough round. However, as it transpired the scoring was relatively good and most, if not all, had a great day.
Srithong Tann, Raivo Velsberg and Robert Watkins shared a rollover ‘2’s pot in the first division; in division 2, Russell Benson and Paddy Wilson shared the prize, and in division 3 there were no winners so the pot was carried forward.
Back at Siam Cats for the presentation there was live music and a free buffet for all the golfers and partners, so there was still plenty to look forward to even if you had a bad round on the final day.
John Seymour from Northern Thai Realty presented all the prizes and the Club Championship trophy was presented to Lars Strom for his 76 points over the two rounds. Congratulations Lars.
Coming in second place was Kari Aarnio (69pts), Raivo Velsberg (68) was third,
Ben Findon (68) in fourth, and Paddy Wilson (67) fifth.
Siam Cats also presented an individual trophy to the best lady golfer over the two days, that title going to Miss Nom with her 66 points.
All of us at Jomtien Golf would like to thank Northern Thai Realty for their sponsorship, Faa and Olaf at Siam Cats for providing the food and music on their first anniversary at the bar, and Paul and his staff at Simple Simon’s for the delicious food.

Rosco shows top form on Frank’s anniversary bash

PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, November 24, Burapha - Stableford
After the trouncing the Outbackers gave the Crystal & Dunes course last week from the white tees, it was time for the course to bite back, and bite back it did. In Jack’s last event before handing the reins back to Capt’ Bob, he brought the majority of the 76 golfers out there today down to earth with a bang.

Wednesday’s overall winner, Rosco, with the Birthday Boy, Frank.

Handicaps up to 19 played from the blue tees whilst 20 and above played from the white. However, the big difference this week was that there was the best part of a three club wind swirling around and gusting in different directions.
The 32 points that won Div A came from the low handicapper in the field, Briany Christie playing off h’cap 1, one ahead of Ted Gardner & Pat Regan both on 31; with Ian Heddle (h’cap 2) taking 4th with 30.
Tom Saxon (34pts) and Tony Cox (33pts) fared a little better, winning the B & C Divisions by three and four point margins respectively. Division D, from the whites, produced two players with 39 points, resulting in Johnny S getting the better of Bob Fagan on count-back, with Ivan Plunkett back in third on 36.
The average returned score in each division was as follows: Div A (25.8), Div B (26.8), Div C (22.8) & Div D - white tees (27.8)
There were seven ‘2’s today coming from Briany Christie, Ian Heddle, Jack Moseley, Rick Evans, Joe Mooneyham, Bruce McAdam & Glyn Davies.
Div A (0-12)
1st Briany Christie (1) 32pts
2nd Ted Gardner (11) 31pts
3rd Patrick Regan (8) 31pts
4th Ian Heddle (2) 30pts
5th Jack Moseley (10) 29pts
6th David Smith (11) 29pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Tom Saxon (14) 34pts
2nd George Bishop (14) 31pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (13) 31pts
4th Ken Davies (14) 30pts
5th Jan Slotten (16) 30pts
6th Bruce Milner (14) 30pts
Div C (18 & 19)
1st Tony Cox (18) 33pts
2nd Mike Rosenbrook (18) 29pts
3rd Campbell Potts (18) 25pts
4th Glyn Davies (18) 25pts
5th David Knowles (18) 23pts
Div D (20+)
1st John Spiller (22) 39pts
2nd Bob Fagan (20) 39pts
3rd Ivan Plunkett (21) 36pts
4th Jack Shilton (27) 34pts
5th Tony Bullock (20) 33pts
6th Billy Steele (200 32pts
Wednesday, November 26, The Emerald – Stroke-play
Frank O’Neill was the inaugurator of the Outbacker Birthday Cup, and today was the thirteenth to be held on the anniversary of the first one, and of course Frank’s birthday. There is no other format in Frank’s mind when in comes to golf, stroke-play; proper golf as he calls it.
Thirty-nine Outbackers joined in the celebration, but in tricky windy conditions and fast greens, many an attempt to put a good round together ended in tears. Rosco Langoulant rolled out the overall winner with an absolutely brilliant 71, the only man to beat his handicap, and he finished just one shot ahead of Ken Thomson with a level 72. Well played guys. Great golf!
The defending champion, Bob Pearce, put up a good fight to win Div A after a three-way count-back between himself, Rick Evans & Des Scott, all with 76. Capt’ Bob, playing his first game since his return went down in flames, as did Jack & Phil Mitchell, leaving only eight other finishers.
Sugar Ray returned a handy one-over par 73 to take Div B from Henry O’Brien (75) and Geoff Doody (79). Paul Crosland won Div C with same 73, beating the fast improving Gary Saunders (75) and first time on the podium, David Jones, on 77.
As is customary with these Outbacker Birthday Cup events, good food was provided back at the ranch, courtesy of Frank; as were the four 500 Baht near pin vouchers, won by Michael Goessl, John Kittilsen, Bob Pearce & Rick Evans.
There were five ‘2’s coming from Barry Chadbourn (he gets a lot of these!), David Jones (first one?) and Rick Evans had three of them (he gets a lot too! but not often 3 in one round), well played Rick!
Overall
1st Rosco Langoulant (13) net 71
2nd Ken Thomson (14) net 72
Div A (0-13)
1st Bob Pearce (10) net 76
2nd Rick Evans (4) net 76
3rd Des Scott (12) net 76
Div B (14-20)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (19) net 73
2nd Henry O’Brien (19) net 75
3rd Geoff Doody (20) net 79
Div C (21+)
1st Paul Crosland (22) net 73
2nd Gary Saunders (25) net 75
3rd David William Jones (24) net 77
Friday, 28 November, Laem Chabang - Stableford
This was a splendid opportunity to play this truly world class course at a very special rate for the time of year, probably something many wouldn’t normally be able to do in the high season. The strong wind blowing across the course made the opening four holes on ‘C’ extremely difficult and many a hope of a good score was destroyed in the early stages. The greens were quick and in excellent shape.
By popular demand, the original 10 groups was increased to 12 on Wednesday and then again to 15 on Thursday, resulting in the previously advertised start of 11.48am being brought forward to 11am for fear of a slow round and the later starters not being able to finish. However, in the event, the pace was good throughout for the 57 golfers that started, at a little more than four hours for the round.
The best score of the day came from Thom Krieger (21), the winner of Div D with 38 points, six clear of Jim Brown on 32. Kathy Doody won Div C with 32, ahead of Glyn Davies (29), Bruce McAdam (28) and Alan Bishop on count-back with 27. Alan had all but given up on the front nine with only seven points but he had a change of fortune on the back including a chip in birdie at the 18th.
Joe Mooneyham played well for his 37 to win Div B, four ahead of Mick Kavanagh on 33, whilst the best in Div A was Ian Heddle scoring 32 points off a handicap of just 2.
There were only three ‘2’s and they came from Paul Greenaway, Micahel Groessl & Thom Krieger.
Note: The Outback Golf Bar regrets the confusion that some of you may have had over the teeing area, but please remember the course is rated, and should be played as such, from the teeing area containing the white tee stones. Quite often markers are brought forward on courses to speed up the pace of play, resulting in a much shorter than designated playing length. In future, the Outback Golf Bar will consult with Laem Chabang about placing the markers on the correct tees, and not placing the blue marker on the white tee box on the first hole, which added to the misunderstanding.
Div A (0-11)
1st Ian Heddle (2) 32pts
2nd Hans Heubeck (6) 30pts
3rd Bob Philp (7) 28pts
Div B (12-15)
1st Joe Mooneyham (13) 37pts
2nd Mick Kavanagh (13) 33pts
3rd Bruce Milner (14) 32pts
4th Tom Saxen (12) 32pts
Div C (16-20)
1st Kathy Doody (20) 32pts
2nd Glyn Davies (18) 29pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (17) 28pts
4th Alan Bishop (16) 27pts
Div D (21+)
1st Thom Krieger (21) 38pts
2nd Jim Brown (22) 32pts
3rd Derek Davies (25) 29pts
4th John Spiller (21) 28pts
Friday, November 28, Green Valley - Stableford
Sugar Ray won the day with 37 points, in second was Barry McIntosh with 36 who beat Sean Johnston on count-back. Mike O’Brien was one point further back on 35, who in turn got the better on count-back of Peter Gibson.
Rest assured that all the scorecards from the 18 Outbackers that played Green Valley have been entered into the USGA handicap system, but are no longer available for the usual report and full result to be listed.
That’s all for now, if you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]. The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com.

Toeing the Oche

Houston Hartwell II
Phil Taylor repeated as the champion of the Party Poker Grand Slam of Darts with a stunning display before a packed house at the Wolverhampton Civic, plus a live TV and internet audience on Sunday, November 23. He went through the select 32 ‘person’ field, Russia’s Anastasia Dobromyslova being a lady invitee, like a Thai courtesan does an old geezer’s wallet.

Phil Taylor holds up the winners’ trophy at the Party Poker Grand Slam of Darts, Sunday, November 23. (Photo Lawrence Lustig/PDC)

The win, worth £100,000, boosts Taylor’s yearly earning to over the half million pound mark in official earnings. He was in trouble only once in the modified round-robin format: in the quarter finals against Australian Simon Whitlock.
“I was dead and buried at 5-1 and if he’d carried that on he’d have beaten me 10-1,” admitted Taylor. The Old Dart Coach says, “If ‘ands’ and ‘buts’ were nuts and honey, we’d all be in paradise.”
Taylor faced Terry Jenkins in the finals. In the race to 18 ‘The Power’ twice had runs of 6 legs on the trot to go up 10-3 and 16-7. The final score was 18-9 in a match that Jenkins was never a part of. In the finals Taylor averaged 106.25 and hit doubles.
“I’m absolutely over the moon. It a massive honour to have retained his title,” said Taylor afterwards. Bet his wife and accountant, if not over the moon, are headed in that direction.
A different format
Anyone that thinks that there is nothing “new”, whether in life or sport, needs a good double shot of reality. That was the reigning theory for years in the sport of darts. Things were done “in the day” because they were done that way yesterday.
Then along came a small group of players, Lowe and Bristow to name two, who started to change the game of darts - they altered the landscape. The most recent example of this is the Party Poker Grand Slam of Darts whose modified round robin format insures that the cream rises to the top and a slip of the cup doesn’t mean you don’t get a drink. Anyone that’s ever been involved in any round-robin play knows that there are always ties when group play is completed.
For the Grand Slam, a tie was broken by “count back” with numbers of legs won to designate the winner. If the players were tied in legs won a “nine-dart shoot-out” was the order of the day.
Andy Hamilton and Alan Tabern engaged in a “shoot-out” at the Wolverhampton Civic with the winner going into the top 16 and knockout play. Tabern won the bull and opted to go first - bad idea. His 85 was trailing after three when Hamilton landed 125. Tabern’s second trip to the oche was devastating with a 41 that was buried when Hamilton tossed in 140. Hamilton was sitting on 265 after 6 darts. Talbern, at 126, needed a T40 which he missed by 97, scoring only 43. Hamilton moved on after 6 darts. His reward? A round of 16 match with Phil Taylor who survived a second round group loss.
Round of 16
The fun game and “there’s always tomorrow” were over as the Grand Slam moved to the knockout rounds and the race for the £100,000 first prize. Playing the best of 19 legs allowed for a few slips here and there with only the strong moving on.
It would be impossible to cover all matches in depth, but a few stood out.
UK Open Champ James Wade had been on fire recently from the oche, but he ran into a determined Gary Anderson, losing 10-8. Anderson had leads of 5-3 but found himself down 7-5 thanks to a nine darter (180-180-treble 20, treble 20 and double 12) from Wade. During the next 6 legs Anderson would hit 5 maximums on the way to a 10-8 win.
World Champion John Part got “blown away.” Part had struggled with a sub-par performance in the first round of group play against Anastasia Dobromyslova, who missed her doubles. This time it was Part that missed doubles as Mark Webster played great darts. “I don’t think I’ve been playing that well so I’m delighted to win and be in the quarter-finals,” said Webster. He never trailed in the match, averaged close to 100, tossed in 3-180’s and a check of 158 after the break that put him up 5-1 on the way to a 10-2 hammering.
Phil Taylor took out Andy Hamilton 10-8 in a replay of last years final after using a four leg run for an 8-4 lead.
Darryl Fitton hit 10 of 19 doubles in dispatching Denis Ovens 10-8. Fitton, runner up in both the World Masters and the German Championships, pulled ahead to provide breathing room at 6-2 with legs of 13, 14 and 15 darts.
Terry Jenkins, like James Wade, had been playing well and it showed. He was down 5-2 to Scot Robert Thornton before coming back for a 10-8 win.
The Quarters
There is that time, usually, in any darts competition when the favorite is down, out, and just waiting to be wrapped to wait for Father Christmas. That was Phil Taylor down 5-1 in the race to 10 against Australian Simon Whitlock. But missed doubles and Taylor’s scoring power was too much for POM Whitlock to overcome as he succumbed 10-7 - at one point Taylor ran off 5 on the trot
Mervyn King reached the semis when he sent BDO World Champion Mark Webster home 10-8. King, who led 8-6, felt some pressure when Webster drew even at 8. King answered with three T80’s and two doubles and it was all over.
Gary Anderson was down 5-2 to Darryl Fitton. Anderson then won 8 of the last 9 legs for a 10-6 victory. How could this happen? Anderson scored when needed and hit doubles. “Darts is a simple game - score and hit doubles.”
Terry Jenkins and Ray van Barneveld were tied at 9 legs each with both players having leads that they couldn’t hold. In the deciding leg both players had doubles when Jenkins took out double 5, which probably started as a double top.
“I made hard work of it and missed a lot of doubles in the early legs,” said Jenkins. “I should have made it easier for myself. But I’m delighted to have reached the semi-finals and it will be a great game against Gary Anderson.”
The Semis
Jenkins didn’t tell any “porkies’ here as his semi final tussle against Gary Anderson had it all: great scoring (19-T80’s), some great finishes (164,130) and a great scoring average with 105.65 for Anderson and 102.30 of Jenkins.
Tied at 14 legs all, Anderson missed a bull out to give Jenkins double top. Jenkins hit to go up 15-14. When Anderson had a slow start in the decider, Jenkins rolled into the finals.
In the other half of the draw, Phil Taylor started fast and then increased his speed as he rolled over Mervyn King 16-10. If there was a key it came with Taylor up 13-9 when he made 151 disappear for a 14-9 lead. Taylor had a scoring average of 106.5 and 10 T80’s.
“I’m ecstatic to be in the final,” said Taylor. “Mervyn has so much bottle and didn’t give in, and he put me under a lot of pressure.”
Yeah right Phil, and “the dog ate my homework.”
Next up is the “Big Daddy” of them all, the £600,000 plus Ladbrokes World Dart Championships. There will be 68 players from 19 countries with things getting underway on December 19, with 19 session spread over 12 days. The winner will be crowned on January 4 with a trophy and £100,000. The early betting favorite? Phil Taylor … Who would have thunk it?