Godsen shoots 44-pointer at Phoenix

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s top four: Tony Scambler, Frank Pilkington,
Joel Flor and Mike Gosden.

Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, January 6, Phoenix - Stableford
A Flight (0-16)
1st Mike Gosden 44pts
2nd Tony Scambler 40pts
3rd Keith Emerson 39pts
4th Mashy Kenata 37pts
5th Rob Brown 36pts
B Flight (17+)
1st Frank Pilkington 37pts
2nd Joel Flor 34pts
3rd Patrick Poussier 34pts
4th Cees Bosman 34pts
5th Grant Dawson 32pts
Near Pins: Iall Higgins, Scott Dobbins, Frank Higgins (2), Steve Sider, Frank Pilkington, TC
Long Putts: Mike Gosden, DB, TC, Peter Whitehead
Tuesday, the Tarnished Horde descended to its designated rendezvous, Tropical Bert’s Bar for its first clash of the new year. The air inside the bar was unctuous with the smell of many breakfasts being wolfed-down and the babble of players looking for rides to the appointed course.
Out at Phoenix the weather was fine, the air was still and the horde was feverish with excitement. Our captain, DB was suffering from the effects of “Brooks’ Law”, i.e. “adding manpower to a late software project makes it later”. In this case, adding players to the horde at the last minute delayed the start and contributed to the captain’s stress.
Finally, we had 11 flights to get off and as happens so often, “he who is last shall be first”. In this case, Aussie Mike Gosden was pushed to the front and as this saga unfolds, we will learn that he was to be first in other ways as well.
So we got underway and we were happily hacking our way along, with only a few interruptions from Tony Scrambler seeking rules clarifications from as many members of the horde as he could distract.
Our reporter was in one of the first flights with our captain and said Mike Gosden, who was hitting most of his drives straight down the fairways, on in regulation or chipping and single putting hole after hole, with the odd birdie. As Gosden was later to recount, his shoulders were heavy with having to carry his partner, whose identity has been obliterated by the unreliable memory of our reporter. Anyway, our reporter was more interested in chasing a little sunbird with a black back and yellow breast flitting in the branches.
All the flights eventually finished and the golfers straggled back to Pattaya and Tropical Bert’s to give accolades to the winners. And amongst the winners was a controversial score by said Gosden, although the score itself wasn’t controversial, because it was duly recorded by our captain. Mr. Gosden had carded an even 72, 8 strokes under his official handicap.
In our little horde, whenever a golfer shoots more than a few strokes under his handicap he immediately comes under suspicion of being a tiger in tabby cat clothing. But this was neither her nor him to our reporter who was more interested in identifying that little sunbird in the field guide to the birds of Thailand.
Well, later in the evening our captain hosted a little soiree on the roof of Markland, a sacrifice he routinely makes for weary travellers to Pattaya. In this setting one can boast about one’s game or slander one’s fellow competitors, especially those absent from the party.
A noble exception amongst these defamers was Frank Pilkington, who saluted the tireless efforts of captains like our DB in organizing our little competitions. As Frank said, these organizers are the real champions and the unsung heroes. At this our captain fell over, awash in San Miguel.

Near Pin prizes back at Jomtien Golf

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, January 5, The Emerald – Stableford
Following the holiday festivities of late, it is back to normal now at Jomtien Golf with our normal Monday, Wednesday and Friday games. Last Monday we had five late cancellations in the morning, so a field of 35 players took off for the Emerald course.
After 2/3 weeks of debates and discussions, the nearest the pin prizes for two divisions has been reinstated after a majority approval. Peter Pedder, John Smith, Raivo Velsberg and Harry Vincenzi were all smiling after winning the Division 1 prizes. Martin Anderton, Fred Duffy and Burnie Sinclair took the second division honours and all the girls behind the bar were smiling as Martin donated his bottle to them.
In the 2’s Raivo Velsberg’s birdie on the 15th and Paddy Wilson’s on the 13th gave them a share of the pot in Division 1, while in Division 2 a double rollover jackpot from Bangpakong and Khao Kheow plus the day’s intake, was shared by Fred Duffy and Allan Shepherd, who both got 2’s on the seventh, and Ken Foster who birdied the 15th.
In the stableford competition in Division 1, three players all tied for first place with 33 points; Paddy Wilson winning with a back nine count back of 19, over Ben Findon (17) and Peter Seward (16) in second and third respectively. John Smith took fourth place with 32 points.
There were similar scores in Division 2 with 34 points winning it for Fred Duffy. Miss Nom beat Miss Oam on an 18/17 count back for second after they both recorded 33 points, and in fourth place was Kari Aarnio with 32 points.
Later there was another free buffet with live music for all golfers and their partners back at Siam Cats to welcome in the New Year. Many thanks yet again to Faa and Olaf.
Wednesday, January 7, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Our first visit here for some time due to various reasons and another full field out today. The journey here is now a pleasant 50 minutes up the 331 from Siam Cats so a more popular venue than before.
Surprisingly the majority of the greens were still sanded for this time of the year, but the course was still in good condition.
There were 5 winners in the 2’s at Emerald on Monday so no rollovers in either division today. John Smith and Geoff Stubbs shared the purse in Division 1 while the second division pot was carried forward to Eastern Star on Friday.
The cut in the two-divisional stableford competition was made at 18 today, and now playing off an 8 handicap, Miss Srithong won Division 1 with 34 points. Three people tied on 33 points for the minor places with Jim Connelly finishing second with a 17 back nine count back over Paul Bray (15) in third and Neville Scurrell (14) in fourth.
Paul Bray, Ted Morris, John Smith and Geoff Stubbs all secured near pin prizes in Division 1, and there was only one winner in Division 2, Kari Aarnio with his birdie on the 6th hole, so the rollover kitty builds up yet again for our next extravaganza day, the pairs Canadian scramble at Emerald on the 28th of this month.
The ladies tipple was awarded to Miss Morel, Jimmy Johnson and Neville Scurrell as they played a medal round today not realizing this had been postponed to Phoenix the following week.
Friday, January 9, Eastern Star – Stableford
Our regular Friday venue and with a 9.30 tee off time all nine groups were back in the clubhouse after a 4 hour 15min round, totally unheard of for this time of the year.
The rollover kitty still amasses with only 5 winners today in the nearest the pin competitions; Mikael Andersson and Raivo Velsberg took the prizes in Division 1 and Jim Connelly and Miss Oam (2) in Division 2.
Thirty-points placed Fred Duffy in fourth place in Division 1, two points ahead was Paddy Wilson in third, in second place with 34 points was John Smith, and with spasmodic rounds of late, Mikael Andersson took the top honours with 38 points.
Miss Oam won Division 2 with 35 points, Tom Breslin was second on 34, and Jim Lane beat Martin Anderton on an 18/16 count back for third after they both scored 33 points.
There were no 2’s today in either division so a rollover ensued to the following week’s visit to Mountain Shadow.

Pattaya City let Londoners off the hook

The MBMG International League 2008/09

Paul Frain
Pattaya City started their new year with an away game in Bangkok against the unbeaten Londoners. Both teams started cautiously, probing each others defenses with the Londoner gaining an early corner and free kick, but both were dealt with confidently by the City defense.
Pattaya retaliated soon after with right winger Danny Stevens heading just wide, but the away team kept up the pressure and Paul Derbyshire could have opened the scoring when he tried to guide a cross ball in with his feet when a header might have brought better results.
After some tight play with few chances for either team, City eventually broke the deadlock when a free kick from Alan Mulberry spun of a defender’s legs to Danny Stevens, whose shot was also blocked, but Carlos Old was on hand to put it into the net through a crowd of players.
Londoners hit straight back and had the ball in the net from a corner but the goal was disallowed for pushing. Then, on the stroke of half time, the Londoner task was made all the more harder when they were reduced to ten men after one of their forwards was sent off for retaliation.
Half time arrived with Pattaya City in a comfortable position, leading 1-0.
After the interval both midfields kept a tight hold of the game and chances were limited, however a quick break by City saw Alan Mulberry deliver an inch perfect long cross to midfielder Craig Banks who made no mistake to make it 2-0 to Pattaya.
This goal rang the alarm bells for the ten-man Londoner team and with 30 minutes of the match still left, they threw caution to the wind and attacked the City goal en masse, gaining three corners in succession and pulling a goal back when a loose ball was slotted home to make it 2-1.
City now found themselves penned back in their own penalty box and the only relief was the long ball out, which allowed the ten men to charge straight back and City’s lead was hanging by a thread. Pattaya scrambled the ball away time after time and it seemed like a goal must come for the Londoners, but City were still holding out.
Then, just as it seemed that City could weather the storm, the Londoners equalized with a mistake by the City keeper left the Londoner forward with an open goal and he headed home to equalize.
The Londoners now had the scent of victory and turned up the tempo and the City defense started to panic, but they somehow just managed to stop the opposing forwards from adding to their score.
Then, against the run of play, City nearly had the last say in the game when forward Jake Baker nearly broke through but a last ditch tackle by the last defender made sure that the score finished at 2-2. It was a deserved result between two evenly matched teams but mistakes at the back in the City’s defense are costing points and could cost them the Championship.

Sriracha stadium opts for artificial grass

Ariyawat Nuamsawad
Artificial grass worth 39 million baht will be laid at the Sriracha Football Stadium after TNG (Thainun) Co. Ltd won the bid to prepare the artificial surface for football field, with the work expected to be completed later this year.Chatchai Timkrajang from the Municipality of Sriracha said the artificial grass will enable the stadium to be used for exercise and recreation purposes by residents living in the area and it will also be used as the home stadium for the “Blue Marines”, the Sriracha FC team, which is competing in the Thai Premier League.

Chatchai Timkrajang from the Municipal of Sriracha shows samples of the artifical grass to be installed at the sports stadium.

Additionally, the field will also be used in 2010 for the National Sports Competition for which Chonburi has been selected as hosts.The Artificial grass plan was originally conceived in 2008 but work could not begin due to corrections needed to pass municipal standards. A tender process was held to see who would win the construction project with many companies bidding. TNG (Thainun) Co. Ltd won the bid for 39 million baht which leaves an additional of 10 million baht for the municipality for lighting at the stadium.The construction contract will be signed this week for a completion period in eight months. By the end of the year the field along with running tracks, lighting and fences should be complete.

Chonburi disabled athletes ready to strike gold at Song Kwae Games

The Chonburi disabled athletes pray and receive good wishes before going to participate in the Song Kwae Games in Pitsanulok.

Vimolrat Singnikorn
Chonburi’s disabled athletes are favored to win a bag full of gold medals in the “Song Kwae Games” to be held in Phitsanulok from January 17-21.The Chonburi Sports Association is spending a million baht to prepare its disabled athlete members in the hope of winning more than 100 gold medals of the available total of 320 to be contested in 15 separate sports categories in Phitsanulok. On January 6 at the Redemptorist School for the Disabled in Pattaya, Thanee Samatkit, Deputy Governor of Chonburi and Sonthaya Khunplume, President of the Chonburi Sports Association, met to prepare support for the athletes to compete in the National Disabled Games. Fr. Lawrence Pattin, Director of the Father Ray Foundation, and Fr. Worawut Saraphan joined in to welcome a team of 315 disabled athletes. Disabled sports were initiated in Thailand in 1975 when Prof Dr Bunsom Martin was the Director-General of the Physical Education Department. The Cabinet resolution of January 13, 1999 paved the way for continuously developing disabled sports and athletes and this has led to the annually contested “Song Kwae Games”. Sonthaya said Chonburi Province was sending 314 athletes from three units; these being the Redemptorist Vocational School for the Disabled in Pattaya, the Otolaryngology School in Chonburi and the Karunyawet Home for the Disabled. The athletes will compete in various sports including track and field, sepak takraw, table tennis, boxing, badminton, petanque, football, weightlifting, archery, sit and stand volleyball, swimming, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair basketball, shooting, and fencing. Udom Chokrat, Director of the Redemptorist School, said Chonburi province had a goal to win 103 gold medals out of a total of 320. The Chonburi disabled team has been national champions 10 times. They were the top team at the 26th Ligor Games in Nakhon Si Thammarat, bringing home 87 gold, 73 silver and 75 bronze medals. In the latest Asian Para Games and FESPIC Games in Peking at the end of last year, Thailand won two silver and two bronze medals in track and field and weightlifting.

Kelly & Redmond on song at Crystal Bay

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, January 5, Khao Kheow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Gordon Melia (13) 37pts
2nd Paul Smith (4) 36pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (10) 34pts
B Flight
1st Joel Flore (19) 30pts
2nd P.J. Redmond (19) 29pts
3rd Mike Corner (19) 28pts
Near Pins: Jan Van Spellen, Gerry Cooney, John McDonald and Keith Avery.
Gordon Melia made a successful return to Thailand by winning the A Flight with a very impressive 37 points at Khao Kheow. Playing the B & C courses and with the cut at handicap 18, Gordon held off a strong challenge from Paul Smith who made a valiant effort but came up one point short to take the runner up spot. Gerry Cooney nipped in to third place beating Dutchman Jan on a count back.
Joel Flore was another golfer who has just returned to Thailand and he won the B Flight (they must have been on detox programmes in their home countries!) ahead of the in-form PJ in second and newcomer Mike Corner in third.
Wednesday, January 7, Crystal Bay - Medal
A Flight
1st Pat Kelly (2) net 69
2nd Dougy Crowe (8) net 70
3rd Peter Blackburn (16) net 72
B Flight
1st P.J. Redmond (19) net 69
2nd Gene Pleuger (20) net 75
3rd Steve Durey (19) net 79
Near Pins: Mike Gosden, Thea Van Spellen, Mashi Kaneta and Tony Robbins.
Playing stroke play at Crystal Bay there was some cracking scores to win in both flights. The cut was set at handicap 16 and young golfer Pat Kelly had a marvellous three under pat round to win the A Flight, and playing off a handicap of 2 that’s a pretty good round by anybody’s standard! Dougy Crowe was one shot behind to take second place and Peter Blackburn came in third with a level par round.
Continuing with his prolonged spell of fine form, P.J. won the B Flight by the same three-under par score to leave the rest of the field trailing miles behind. Gene Pleuger was second six shots back and Steve Durey took third place a further four shots back.
With the Matchplay season just about to start, the Bunker Boy’s are hoping P.J. can keep up this form to help us retain the trophy we won last season.
Friday, January 9, Plutaluang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Cees Bosman (17) 37pts
2nd Dougy Crowe (8) 36pts
3rd Geoff Cox (12) 35pts
B Flight
1st John Thornber (19) 32pts
2nd Colin O’Donnell (21) 32pts
3rd Mike Corner (19) 31pts
Near Pins: Geoff Cox, Scott McCormick, Dougie Crowe and William Macey.
Playing the South and East courses at the Royal Thai Navy course it was pretty tight in the A Flight where Cees Bosman won with a handsome 37 points. Just one point behind in second place was Dougie Crowe and one point further back in third place came Geoff Cox.
The cut was set at handicap 17, and in the B Flight it was just as close with a count back deciding the winner; John Thornber just edging out Colin O’Donnell to win it and Mike Corner took third place only one point behind them both.

Monsieur Pierre “Just Magic”

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, January 4, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Jack Grinvold (5) 40pts
2nd Silvio Bizzotti (11) 39pts
3rd Bob Patterson (7) 39pts
B Flight
1st Andrew Byrne (14) 37pts
2nd Don Lehmer (13) 35pts
3rd Mick Folan (15) 35pts
C Flight
1st Fred O’Connor (20) 37pts
2nd Ger Lodge (17) 36pts
3rd Alec Hoare (19) 35pts
Ladies Flight
1st Kathy Doody (17) 33pts
Near Pins: #2 Don Lehmer, #9 Joe McArdle, #12 Colin Davis, #16 Ted Lodge
2’s: Eight
Baan Jing Jai hidden six: 1st K Kay, 2nd N Payne
With the Gold Medal just round the corner, a very large contingent of Lewiinski’s golfers made the effort to play this Sunday. The course is now back to its best and a pleasure to play.
Jack “Whacko” Grinvold turned in the best card of the day in the A Flight, a terrific 40 points for ‘man of the match’, which must make him one of the favorites for the Gold Medal. Second and third place was a tie between Silvio Bizzotti and Bob “wiz kid” Patterson, both on 39 points, Silvio taking the second place via the resulting count back and edging Bob into third.
B Flight was a tight affair with Andrew Byrne the victor with a very useful 37 points. Four players vied for the second spot all on 35 points; Don Lehmer’s maths proved the best for second followed by Mick Folan in third place, while Nicky “Two Gloves” and Tom Byrne just lost out.
C Flight was a clean cut affair, Fred O’Connor sneaking first with 37 points over Ger Lodge on 36 in second. Alec Hoare rounded out the flight on 35 points, beating Brian “The Rhythm” Lewis on the dreaded count back
As there were six golfers of the fairer sex playing to day, they played their own flight; Kathy Doody emerging the winner with 33 points.
Monday, January 5, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (16) 38pts
2nd Don Lehmer (12) 37pts
3rd Andrew Byrne (14) 33pts
B Flight
1st John O’Neill (20) 34pts
2nd Tom Breslin (19) 31pts
3rd Peter Hedenbergh (19) 31pts
Bangpra and the resident monkeys welcomed the Lewiinski’s mob to a stableford comp on Monday. The course was in excellent condition with super slick greens that would need a bit of magic to garner a decent card.
This was supplied by Monsieur Pierre, who stroked his balls on to the greens, then caressed them into the hole like a pro. Pierre’s total score was the lowest of the day; a magical 38 points, to take the senior flight. The in-form Don Lehmer with 37 points reversed Sunday’s position, over another in form player Andrew Byrne on 33 to take second spot.
The junior flight found the greens a little too slick, John O’Neill needing just 34 points to win. Tom Breslin on 31 took second spot on a count back over Peter Hedenbergh who finished third to fill out the podium.
Graham Mitchell made up for his disappointing card to notch the only ‘2’ of the day.
The bus was a little late returning to Lewiinski’s, as the lads had to wait in the queue to use the super loos before the journey back to Pattaya.
Wednesday, January 7, Crystal Bay - Stableford
A Flight
1st Sonny Crawford (10) 36pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 36pts
3rd Paul Young (13) 34pts
B Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (16) 40pts
2nd Joe Peters (21) 35pts
3rd Ivan Plunkett (19) 34pts
The sign up sheet was for Crystal Bay, and this week we made it, and as a bonus the course was in its usual pristine condition. At the start of play all the competitors were handed their ear muffs for the day - guess whose back?
Pierre the magician carried on where he left off on Monday, creaming a magical match wining 40 points to take B Flight by storm. Joe Peters took second place on 35, leaving Ivan Plunkett on 34 to take third.
A Flight was a little tighter, with Sonny “Tiger” Crawford just edging Seamus Cotter VC for top spot, both firing an even par 36 points. Paul Young closed the Wireless’s mouth for a while, taking third place on a count back that also included Jon Lemjan, all on 34 points.
Sonny “Tiger” Crawford and Fred O’Connor shared a handsome 2’s pot.
Back at Lewiinski’s for some sherbets and a good time, Oneball was in his eye holes meeting up with two old mates, yes he has two.
Friday, January 9, Khao Kheow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Albert Mcevoy (14) 35pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 33pts
3rd Justin Fowlis (14) 30pts
B Flight
1st Peter Hedenbergh (18) 35pts
2nd Geoff Kubas (20) 33pts
3rd John O’Neill (20) 33pts
Khao Keow was the host to the Lewiinski’s mob for the final game of the week. The course is in exceptional condition, and the accompanying breeze made life difficult for the players: No golfer managed to break par.
Albert Mcevoy was the nearest in A Flight, carding a handy 35 points. Seamus Cotter VC followed Albert home on 33 and third place needed a count back to separate Justin Fowlis and Joe Lederhosen Mcardle, both with 30 points. Justin made it by the slenderest margin.
Peter Hedenbergh was the victor in B Flight with 35 points and Geoff Kubas came second on 33 after winning a count back over John O’Neill.
John O’Neill, Ray Philips and Jim Elphick shared the 2’s pot
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone 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.

Drumm takes high scoring A Flight on count back

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, January 6, The Emerald (White tees) - Stableford
A mixture of gentlemen and a few bellicose old codgers turned out to take on The Emerald which was in top condition. The ‘back straight’ i.e. holes eleven through 14 was into the teeth of a stiff breeze and dashed the high scoring aspirations of many.

Thursday’s winners: Keith Hodges, left, and Bob Drumm.

Good Ol’ David Gardner kept hold of his recent good form to take top spot with 36 points. John Aylott was runner-up with 32 points whilst by a stroke of luck Mike Jackson squeaked past the scribe to take third place on count back with 31 points.
Newcomer Mike King picked up two near pin bonuses with Mike Jackson and Khun Paco taking the other two. David Gardner sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Thursday, January 8, Greenwood A & B (White tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0-18)
1st Bob Drumm (12) 40pts
2nd John Roddis (11) 40pts
3rd David Gardner (9) 38pts
B Flight (19+)
1st Keith Hodges (26) 39pts
2nd Jim Walton (20) 38pts
3rd Ian Campbell (22) 36pts
Five four-ball groups returned to Greenwood’s A & B for the second time in eight days, so the golf course was unusually familiar resulting in high winning scores and a very high average of 34.9 points.
The winning scores are posted above whilst Dan, Mike, Bob and Craig won near pin bonuses and Bob Drumm picked up the longest first putt dividend.
A perturbed Aka O’Reilly has asked me to remind members of the group that it is ‘up to you’ whether you rank as a gentleman or a bellicose old codger. Calling another member of the group a ‘worthless piece of bull manure’ is wrong. Firstly it’s wrong because bull manure is not worthless, it is a highly prized commodity amongst agriculturists and secondly because it places the caller firmly in the bellicose old codger category which makes it difficult for the Management Committee to find others willing to play with the likes of. Also calling a gentleman member of the group a ‘lying sack of buffalo dung’ during the rehydration process comes very near to a red card offence whatever the provocation.

Sports Bag

Walt finds the winning touch

PSC golf from The Three Sister’s Bar & Grill

Seemed like it was rainy season on the fairways of the Pattaya Country Club last Tuesday, or possibly the greenkeeper had turned on the sprinklers and left them on all night. Reasonable play allowed for movement to higher and drier ground so it wasn’t too bad.

Winner Walt Straub, left, with Bill Key.

Beautiful partly cloudy skies again made for a delightful golf day. It certainly worked for Walt Straub who came in with 37 points. Watch your handicap come tumbling down Walt. Next in line was a regular at the top, Bill Key, coming in with 34 points.
The remainder of the pack followed on down to a lowly 20 by a “golfer?” whose name shall not be divulged but having the initials PED. More than a few cups had their “Ball Repulse Systems” turned on as lipping the cup seemed to be the song of the day.
As usual everyone retired to Caddy Shack II for some of Herbie’s finely cooked ham and some refreshment courtesy of San Miguel. Visiting us this week was Bob Clark’s son Bob who gave his dad a few examples of how to drive the ball.”

Slotten scores 40; ladies dominate the B Flight

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, January 5, Khao Kheow – Stableford
Khao Kheow Country Club was host to a stableford competition in two flights with the cut at handicap 18. The course on the day was in very fine condition but the greens were a little slow.

B Flight’s top two: Mimi Daaler and Cilia Bosman.

Jan Slotten won the A Flight with a fine 40 points ahead of Mike Gosden in second with 37. Rob Brown was in third with 35 points and in fourth was Eric Hansen with 34.
In the B Flight the winner was Mimi Daaler with 32 points ahead of Cilia Bosman in second with 31 points. Martyn Topham was in third with 30 on a count back from Jean Claude Hoste in fourth. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Carole Kubicki, Walter Bachli, Mimi Daaler, Bjarne Kjar
Long Putt: Bill Plath, Cilia Bosman

Eddie and Ken start 2009 on a high

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
Eddie Townsend and Ken Lucente decided to start the first of the 2009 outings in the best possible way. On January 3rd at Greenwood, Ken fired in forty-three points to take the day and on Monday the 5th at Crystal Bay, Eddie went one better with a great forty-four pointer to win and make it his highest personal score ever.
Please note that there is one extra results report this week, the Sat 3rd results could not be produced in time for last weeks publication because of New Year printing schedules.
Saturday, January 3, Greenwood - Stableford
Division 1
1st Ken Lucente (10) 43pts
2nd George Robinson (11) 38pts
3rd George Peckston (12) 36pts
Division 2
1st Eamonn Murtagh (17) 35pts
2nd George Pittam (16) 34pts
3rd John O’Leary (16) 34pts
2’s: George Peckston
Monday, January 5, Crystal Bay A & B – Stableford
1st Eddie Townsend (16) 44pts
2nd David Walter (12) 38pts
3rd Larry Bland (19) 37pts
4th Ray Trembath (10) 36pts

Saturday’s winners: Roger Mitchell (2’s) with Joy and event winner Graham Hurdon.

Monday saw us take a trip to Crystal Bay to play the A & B nines. This venue is coming up with a great deal cost wise these days and what a great course this is. There was just a moderate turnout on the day; I think some were still recovering after New Year celebrations.
Eddie Townsend was making one of his last outings before returning to Australia and he obviously intended to start 2009 with a big one. He led the field by a clear six points with a score of forty-four. David Walter was second, back on thirty-eight by just a single point from third placed Larry Bland. Four 2’s were recorded by Fergus Brennan, Brendan Moore, George Pittman and Andy Turner.
Tuesday, January 6, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Division 1
1st Gerald Thwaites (10) 36pts
2nd Paul Peckston (12) 35pts
3rd George Robinson (11) 35pts
Division 2
1st Jack McNamara (20) 32pts
2nd David McFeely (18) 30pts
3rd Andy Turner (23) 29pts
Tuesday and Mountain Shadow was the venue. We had a great turnout as this is particular favourite with many players these days.
Two divisions and the win in the second tier win went to Jack McNamara with thirty-two points; two ahead of David McFeely in second and in third spot was Andy Turner at twenty-nine. Division 1 was taken by just one clear point with Gerald Thwaites edging it on thirty-six. In second place after count back was Paul Peckston and third was George Robinson.
Only two 2’s on the day, those being made by Brendan Moore and George Pittman.
Thursday, January 8, Phoenix Lakes & Ocean - Stableford
Division 1
1st Ray Allison (13) 40pts
2nd Ray Trembath (39) 39pts
3rd Mike Gosden (8) 37pts
Division 2
1st Jack McNamara (20) 36pts
2nd Roger Mitchell (23) 35pts
3rd Nijole Murtagh (25) 35pts
It was a short journey to Phoenix on Thursday for our regular weekly visit. Numbers were big and two very full divisions, 0-15 and 16 up.
Only single points were to decide the outcome: Jack McNamara edged the second division with thirty six points, just one over Roger Mitchell and Nijole Murtagh, and Ray Allison with a great forty-pointer sneaked past Ray Trembath by one to win the first division. Mike Gosden came home with thirty-seven points to take third.
There were three 2’s by Eddie Grogan, Gerald Thwaites and Alun Webber.
Saturday, January 10, Plutaluang S & N – Stableford
1st Graham Hurdon (7) 35pts
2nd Chuck Carriere (12) 34pts
3rd Eamonn Murtagh (14) 34pts
4th Paul Peckston (11) 33pts
5th John Thornber (17) 33pts
Saturday was a trip down the coast to Plutaluang to play the South & North course. We had quite a low turnout on the day, not sure why but I do know that some players do not find this venue on their favourites list. I have never understood this because the course these days is in great order.
So one division and places down to fifth. And coming in fifth was John Thornber, losing on count back to Paul Peckston, Eamon Murtagh came third, also losing out on the c/b to Chuck Carriere, and the winner with thirty five points was Graham Hurdon. For good measure Graham also popped in a ‘2’ along with Roger Mitchell.

Outback hosts six events per week for the first time

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, January 5, Burapha - Stableford
Sixty-one Outbackers enjoyed the beautiful weather and ideal playing conditions of the Burapha American Links & British Wood nines.

His long time caddie with Nigel, he hit driver!
As last week, the Div D players teed off from the whites, whilst the remainder took on the blues and not surprisingly it was Div D which had the best scores of the day. Johnny Spiller’s 38 only got him fourth place behind the three way tie of Graham Woollett, Billy Hunter & Peter Gibson, all with 39. The usual count-backs sorted out the final positions with Woolly getting the nod, from one of the Norfolk raiders (Billy) and the man in form, Peter. They will of course all receive immediate handicap adjustments.
John Kittilsen is another man in form and his outstanding 41 points won Div C by five from Bruce McAdam and Kevin Moraghan. New to the Outback was Pat Taverner taking Div B with 38, and Jack just got the better of Eddie Smith to nick Div A with a rather ordinary 34 points.
Back at the ranch, four complimentary green fees were drawn out from the players cards; John Spiller, Pete Gibson & Pat Taverner complimenting their ‘golfing prowess’ wins with a little bit of luck.
There were eight ‘2’s today coming from Mark Bamber, Paul Greenaway, Bob Philp, Brian Maddox, Pete Gibson, John Kittilsen & Pat Taverner had two.
Div A (0-11)
1st Jack Moseley (9) 34pts
2nd Eddie Smith (8) 34pts
3rd Paul Bourke (10) 33pts
4th Patrick Regan (9) 33pts
Div B (12-14)
1st Pat Taverner (13) 38pts
2nd Joe Mooneyham (12) 35pts
3rd Barry Copestake (13) 33pts
4th Bruce Milner (14) 32pts
Div C (15-19)
1st John Kittilsen (18) 41pts
2nd Bruce McAdam (18) 36pts
3rd Kevin Moraghan (16) 36pts
4th Keith Bowles (16) 35pts
Div D (20+)
1st Graham Woollett (26) 39pts
2nd Billy Hunter (28) 39pts
3rd Peter Gibson (26) 39pts
4th JohnSpiller (21) 38pts
Tuesday, January 6, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
The first Tuesday of the year and the first Tuesday golf from the Outback Golf Bar at Pattaya Country Club.

Capt’ Bob with Murray Hart.
Seventeen Outbackers made their way to this very local course to receive the usual warm welcome from the staff; a swift check-in and off to the 1st for a prompt start on a sunny day with a slight breeze making for comfortable conditions.
Some four hours later and players were returning to the clubhouse to find regular Outbacker, Nigel Cannon, filling out a form to apply for his year’s free membership following his Ace on the 175 yard 7th hole.
Barry Chadbourn was the organiser for the day, and returning to the Outback Golf Bar, mine hosts Capt’ Bob and Jack were there to greet the players. The scores for the leaders were close showing this course is not a push-over. Capt Bob announced the winners for both flights; Div A, as that man John Kittilsen does it again off his new handicap of 16, scoring 38 points and welcome back to John Lawton, Div B winner with 36 points. He followed that by congratulating Nigel on his ‘hole in one’ (his 4th) to hearty applause and Nigel responded by ringing the bell!
Tuesday’s at Pattaya Country Club with a tee time of around 10 o’clock will be the regular slot for the Outback until further notice.
Div A (0-19)
1st John Kittilsen (16) 38pts
2nd Sugar Ray Handford (17) 36pts
3rd Chris Ronblad (17) 34pts
Div B (20+)
1st John Lawton (21) 36pts
2nd Geoff Moodie (26) 33pts
3rd Nigel Cannon (23) 33pts
Wednesday, January 7, Emerald - Stableford
Thirty-seven Outbackers here today, but only four of them played to their handicap or better. This course might be short but many already know; it ain’t no cinch.
Eddie Smith topped Div A with his 37 points to follow his second place on Monday, and earning himself another 2 ladder points as well. Joe took second with 36 and Capt’ Bob, who’s been knocking on the door recently, took third on 35.
Murray Hart, whose name was overlooked by the computer (if you believe that!) at presentation, was quickly reinstated as the winner of Div B and the top scorer of the day on 38 points, beating B2 and B1 into second and third places, with 36 & 34 respectively.
Div C appeared to have a tougher time out there, with the moderate score of 33 from Henry O’Brien being sufficient to win from Joachim on 32.
There were five ‘2’s from Bob Duxbury, Joe Mooneyham, Paul Bourke, Bruce Milner & Graham Woollett.
Div A (0-12)
1st Eddie Smith (8) 37pts
2nd Joe Mooneyham (12) 36pts
3rd Bob Philp (7) 35pts
4th Paul Bourke (10) 34pts
Div B (13-18)
1st Murray Hart (15) 38pts
2nd Bruce Milner (14) 36pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (18) 34pts
4th Jim Treen (13) 33pts
Div C (19+)
1st Henry O’Brien (21) 33pts
2nd Joachim Oestreicher (24) 32pts
3rd Paul Crosland (23) 30pts
4th Gary Saunders (23) 30pts
Thursday, January 8, Plutaluang - Stableford
Gary Saunders headed the 14 Outbackers playing the South & East nines of Navy course. His regulation handicap equalling 36 points was one point more than Kevin Dinan who edged out John Truman on count-back, both with 35. Brendan Byrne took fourth & Jim Treen fifth, scoring 33 points each.
Reportedly there were no ‘2’s, so the pot was added to the prize money.
1st Gary Saunders (23) 36pts
2nd Kevin Dinan (22) 35pts
3rd JohnTruman (17) 35pts
4th Brendan Byrne (17) 33pts
5th Jim Treen (13) 33pts
Friday, January 9, Siam Plantation - Stableford
From the wind blowing in downtown Pattaya, one just knew that across the exposed hillside of the spectacular Plantation course, it was going to be a few knots stronger. The pretty reception girls, who wait outside the clubhouse to check in the arriving golfers, must find it particularly cold as they shelter behind their battened down umbrella at their little kiosk, suitably attired ‘for the cold’ in wind-cheaters.
Some 42 Outbackers played today, including a good number from The Golf Club, sometimes referred to as ‘our sister bar’, to take on the Sugarcane & Pineapple nines. The course had once again been set up pretty much to Outbacker’s liking, at 6,401 yards; which was probably just as well; had it been any longer, with the exception of a couple of ‘really good golfers’, to whom Capt’ Bob often refers, the rest would have been blown totally away. As it was, many had a round they would probably prefer to forget.
The ‘really good golfer’ category was topped by Rick Evans, who played an excellent round of golf to score 40 points off his 7 handicap for a gross 75, to win Div A by six. Second was Sonny Crawford on 34 and that same score from course specialist, Paul Greenaway, was enough to win Div B with Alan Pearce winning Div C with his 32. Apart from two other golfers, Jack Balman & Steve Mulberry, nobody else broke 30.
There were only two ‘2’s coming from George Bishop & Sonny Crawford
There is something very special about this course, you can do all the right things; hitting off the tee, striking the irons, chipping and putting nicely round the greens, which on most other courses will give you a reasonable score. Here, it’s a mind game; you’ve just missed the green – whether right or left, short or long; you’ve got to work out a way to get that little white thing into the goddamn hole. Chip & run, lob it or putt it, the choice is yours; but get it wrong and the ball just comes back right to your feet, and don’t forget, even if you do get it right, you’ve still got to putt!
It’s a great game but here at the Plantation it is one of intrigue as well, if you have never played it – you should, just a get a little feel of what’s taken for granted when watching the pro’s on a two dimensional TV screen.
Div A (0-10)
1st Rick Evans (7) 40pts
2nd Sonny Crawford (10) 34pts
3rd Eddie Smith (8) 29pts
4th Paul Bourke (10) 28pts
Div B (11-16)
1st Paul Greenaway (11) 34pts
2nd Jack Balman (14) 31pts
3rd Steve Mulberry (11) 30pts
4th David Mather (12) 28pts
Div C (17+)
1st Alan Pearce (18) 32pts
2nd Brian Maddox (21) 29pts
3rd John Warren (22) 26pts
4th Brendan Byrne (17) 25pts
Friday, January 9, Phoenix - Stableford
The alternate venue was the ever popular Phoenix course, playing the mountain and lakes nines. 31 Outbackers were here, although some of them appeared to find this course as difficult as Siam Plantation, judging by the less than average scores returned.
In an unusual manual division split due to the computer being unavailable, Pat Regan (Div A) and his lovely lady Jum (Div C) headed their respective divisions, both with the identical score of 37 points. Div B was won with the very ordinary score (sorry Paul) of 30 points, by Paul Quinn, from Harvey on 29 and another four with 27.
Paul Quinn complimented his win by picking up the ‘2’s pot on his own.
Div A (0-12)
1st Patrick Regan (9) 37pts
2nd SteveMorton (4) 35pts
3rd Michael Waltschek (6) 34pts
Div B (13-18)
1st Paul Quinn (18) 30pts
2nd Bruce Milner (14) 29pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (13) 27pts
Div C (19+)
1st Jum Karagit (32) 37pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (19) 31pts
3rd Kathy Doody (20) 31pts
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.

Rick Holmes hangs tough

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, January 5, Khao Kheow – Stableford
1st Rick Holmes 36pts
2ndRoar Berger 35pts
3rd Dave Thompson 32pts
4th Lynn Ward 31pts
5th Peter Aitcheson 30pts
6th Norman Isherwood 30pts
The wind blew and the course was in great shape with the greens almost back to their high speed best and the fairways inviting, but in the end the wind was the biggest factor as the scores ran out of control, so much so that the CSS went out to 75, although it just stayed in the counting range for increases in handicap.
After a prolonged period of recovery from a debilitating illness, Rick Holmes overcame the conditions better than most to record his first victory as a single in a while, which should at least firm up his place in his musical chairs scramble team selection and augers well for a fairly quick return to the lower numbers in the handicap range.
Roar Berger also performed well following his recent handicap reduction with a steady one over to secure second place. Dave Thompson took his first podium placing of the week with a pretty unexciting round that was still good enough for third, with Lynn Ward having declared a three shot drop in handicap being rewarded with fourth spot.
It was left to Peter Aitcheson and Norman Isherwood to battle for the final place in the prize list, which Peter won with a better count back over the last 6 with a 9 against Normans 8 after leveling at 15 apiece on the back nine.
With the course playing about as tough as it gets it was surprising that the 2’s were taken in both divisions. Brian Lewis took the second alone which also included a roll over and Rick Holmes and Dave Howden shared the single pool in the first.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member Tom Atkins and also welcomed back Ben Wilkinson, Roar Berger, Peter Aitcheson, Brian Lewis, Tony Charlwood, Keith Emerson, Vance Millar and John and Lynn Ward. He then sat down for a rest and a drink.
Wednesday, January 7, Phoenix (White Tees) - Stroke Play
1st Martin Grimoldby net 70
2nd Chris Knapp net 71
3rd Mark Cooper net 72
4th Rod Hewitt net 72
A very different day from Monday off the white tees over the Mountain and Lakes nines when quite a few of the battered players from the previous outing failed to show and a few others, who may of thought the stroke play format would be from the blue tees, meant that the turnout was lower than usual.
But those that did make the effort were rewarded with an extremely well set up and prepared pair of nines that provided a good test of golf, in the medal format.
It was clear that many of the players had not forgotten how to manage a stroke play round as although the scores were not low, most were at or around the handicap levels so that the CSS actually went down to 71.
Martin Grimoldby at last showed his undoubted class as he swept round imperiously to a two under score that was just enough to see off the “members bounce specialist”, Chris Knapp, by a single shot as Chris just failed to capitalise on a good start.
They were followed in by Mark Cooper and Rod Howett, both with level par rounds with Mark just getting the edge with a better back nine on the count back of 33.5 after Rod’s round collapsed to an inward half of 39.5 net after a stunning outward half of five under his handicap, which he was just unable to keep going.
In a complete turnaround from the last outing there were no 2’s in either division.
Back at The Haven The Doc welcomed back Phil Stringer, Robin Peach and Paula and Mauri Virolainen.
Friday, January 9, The Emerald - Stableford
Division 1
1st Tony Barritt 38pts
2nd Mark Cooper 36pts
3rd Barry Traynor 34pts
Division 2
1st Fred Land 34pts
2nd Lynn Ward 34pts
3rd Dave Thompson 33pts
Whilst the green fees at The Emerald can now be considered rather uncompetitive with other local courses, the turnouts continue to be fairly good as the post competition lures in the area, sparkle brightly, and two divisions can normally be expected and this will no doubt continue until the currency situation starts to bite deeper.
Tony Barritt returned to competitive golf with a very surprising two under, not least to himself, after almost giving his clubs to the wife to sell rather than polish. He was extremely pleased to find that the shining weapons had acquired a new life of their own and performed wonders in helping him to fashion the best score of the day and certainly the first division by a couple of points from Mark Cooper. The old silver fox was to be found once again joining the prize list with a solid if unspectacular two over, but for once he could not slip in a ‘2’ anywhere.
Fred Land carried off the second division with a steady two over to just pip Lynn Ward on count back by a single stroke as she could only manage 17 points on the inward half.
Dave Thompson took his second podium placing of the week with a better count back on the last six of 11 to Geoff Pickens 10 after they had both scored 15 on the back nine.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Rainer Helling, Norman Isherwood and Russell Exley all had one in the first division.
Prior to the presentation Volker Esser, Harry Vincenzi and Mike Sanders were welcomed back and farewells were made to Dave Thompson, Mark Cooper and Rod Howett.

Success for Sala at Khao Kheow

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society travelled to Khao Kheow on Tuesday, January 6 to play a stableford competition over the C and A nines. The course is in top condition at present and represents excellent value for money, especially if golfers want to pit their skills against one of the toughest courses in the area. And tough it was, with the wind up, fast greens and the inclusion of the A nine, all off yellow tees.
With good scores at a premium Emiel van der Wiele, David Thomas and Rob Lamond all posted 32 points for a share of second place. Aussie Alex Sala turned in the best card of the day and how he must have rued “scratching” the final hole, being on track for a sub par round which finally ended on 35 points.
David Thomas and Len Jones shared the birdie 2’s pot after their efforts on A5 and A3 respectively. Sadly however, for the gaffer, his rhythm all at sea on the front nine, there was also the consolation of the Booby Bevy for one of the poorest scores on a tough day. Khao Kheow at its best is certainly a wake-up call for golfers who prefer to play in auto-pilot mode.
Adams in complete control
After two tough competition rounds at Treasure Hill and Khao Kheow in the previous five days the Pattaya Golf Society relented and played a stableford round at the well manicured and ultimately forgiving Royal Lakeside club on Thursday, January 8.
A good field turned out and the two flights were divided at 14 and under, evidence that some quality golfers were ready for the fray. The course was peacefully empty and the group got underway immediately. A strong breeze swept up the Bangpakong River and added a touch of spice to the proceedings.
In the second flight, surprisingly, the scores were unimpressive with Jim Ferris taking third place with 33 points, one behind the joint leaders, Rick Ellison and Swedish lady golfer Meith Hemming, whose 34 points each gave a surprise introduction to IPGC golf for its newest members.
The top flight was predictably competitive with David Thomas’s final round before returning to the rigours of work giving him the best gross figures of 77 and a share of third place with 37 points. Joining him were Rick Holmes and Chris Voller. Bill Hewitt popped up with 38 points for second place but all were in awe of the putting skills and general accuracy of American Ed Adams, whose 41 point score took the day in style.
Ed also had the honour of winning the 2’s pot for his fine effort on the lengthy par three sixth hole. The Booby Bevy was reserved for the returning Ray Atkinson whose low score failed to dampen his enjoyment of the day.
For golfers wanting a relaxing round on a generous course, Royal Lakeside should be on the agenda for any Pattaya golf group.
Ferris wheels
in Ban Chang win
The Pattaya Golf Society made its first visit of the year to Ban Chang on Saturday, January 10, to play a stableford competition on the popular Emerald course.
The conditions at the start were definitely out of the northern hemisphere as a strong cool wind blew across the course prompting one senior Scottish golfer to note that conditions resembled Carnoustie on a good summer’s day. It took at least six holes for the midday heat to kick in and by then shivers had caused many a mistake, especially on the greens and scores were destined to be no more than average.
The two flights were divided at eighteen and under and in the top flight David Ashman and Chris Voller held a share of runner up place with a meagre 26 points each. Sharing top place were Finland’s Vesa Turunen, obviously enjoying the conditions, and local Wichai Tananusorn, wearing wind sleeves. Thirty-three points was the best they could offer although Vesa recorded the best gross figures of 85.
In the second flight Masashi Iizumi shared runner-up spot with Scot Allen Dow on 30 points whilst winner Jim Ferris enjoyed an excellent sub par round of 38 points, including the day’s only birdie ‘2’ on the fifth.
Rick Ellison savoured a good front nine as he turned on fifteen points but then went five holes without troubling the scorer until a par on the fifteenth nudged his marker out of his slumbers. His subsequent eighteen point finishing score deserved no more than the Booby Bevy on this, his second competition with the PGS.
Maybe next time the weather will match the warmth of the welcome at Ban Chang’s Emerald club.

Four weeks to go and Montana increase their lead

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

Noodle Russell bowled a 511 series and Tukata Thompson added a 506 to lead Montana to a four point win over Bavaria to increase their first place lead to 7 points. Canada moved out of last place as they took four points from Sabai Sabai Friday. Ooy Pluemkamon led Canada with a 581 series with games of 201, 183 and 197.

200 Bowlers: Rich Montana, Dung Downs, Barry Hooper and Ooy Pluemkamon.

Café Kronborg closed on third place after taking three points from VFW Post 9876. House of the Golden Coin won three and one half points from Café Ole with Barry Hooper leading Golden Coin with games of 202, 188 and 203 for a 593 series and Mio Aamlid had a 518.
Brother D won three points from Jack Tar with Konrad Foerg bowling a 545 series and Antero Ronkainen a 521. Dung Downs bowled a 228 game, 562 series and Mai Munsitha a 521 for Jack Tar.
La Montgomery rolled a 543 series to lead her Montgomery team to a three point win over Sala Thai Restaurant. Rich Montana had another good day bowling as a Pacer with a 209 game and 565 series.