Australia sneak past Thailand in Davis Cup Asia

Australia overcame the surprise defeat of Lleyton Hewitt in Bangkok last Sunday to win the deciding match and beat Thailand 3-2 in their Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group One clash.
Hewitt, playing in the fierce mid-day heat, started strongly but was gradually worn down by the conditions and experienced opponent Danai Udomchoke, who won 2-6, 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-4, 6-1.
That forced a deciding match, in which 18-year-old Thai Kittipong Wachiramanowong fought hard but was beaten 6-3, 7-5, 7-6 (3) by big serving Australian Chris Guccione, who was brought in after being overlooked for Friday’s initial singles.
Australia, a 28-time winner of the Davis Cup, will next visit India with the ultimate winner of that tie going into the World Group playoffs.

Barracuda bonanza day

Sea Fishing with the PSC

Mike Gerrard
Last week the skipper advised us that the tides would be early this week, so it was up at 4 a.m. to round everybody up and get down to the harbour.

A bountiful catch of barracuda.

This was no joke after staying up late to watch my lifetime favourite football team get hammered at home (not going to tell you who they are, you will laugh. Let’s just say they are holding the rest of the premier league up.)
Never mind, the sea was as calm as I have ever seen it, but you could tell this was going to be a hot day. There was a mist, which was obvious it was a heat mist.
So our old sea dog of a captain took us to new pastures today and sure enough there were lots of fish creating a mass confusion for smaller fry all around.
It did not take long for all of us to reel in some garfish, and barracuda. When these toothy blighters are about the other species beat a hasty retreat (or try to). We let the skipper get the hook out of these.
Later on, about lunch time, the tides turned as they inevitably do and so it was off to more usual fishing grounds to reel in a few bags full of the smaller species. These smaller varieties may not be too big, but boy do they make a nice pan fry meal.
By 4 p.m. most of the crew were hot and tired and it was generally agreed that back to harbour was the order to give the skipper, so we returned and sat and enjoyed a beer or two at the beach bar whilst the kitchen staff cleaned and prepared our catch ready to take home. All agreed it had been a nice day in paradise. Luvvly jubbly!
Note: Anyone interested in going out fishing with us at any time, please give me (Mike) a call on 087 091 7565 or if you wish to charter a boat for your own party you can call me or go to the PSC clubhouse and fill out a registration form. If you are members of the PSC you will enjoy good discounts. Deposits are required.
Tight lines chaps!

Pattaya United held to a draw in Premier League opener

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Pattaya United, the ‘Blue & White Dolphins’ took on newly promoted Sriracha FC in their inaugural match in the Thai Premier League at the Nongprue Municipality Field in Pattaya last Sunday, but for the many home fans anticipating a winning start to the season, it turned into something of an anti-climax.

Talented midfielder and club captain Santi Chaipuek (right) skips past a challenge from a Sriracha defender.
Indeed, it was Sriracha who started the stronger and who took the lead in the 20th minute when Japanese striker Saruta Hi-ronoshi put visitors in front. Pattaya, led by their captain Santi Chaipuek, gradually began to work their way back into the game and it came as no surprise when they equalized just before half time when Sompob Nilwong headed in to send the teams off level at the break.
The second half was a somewhat scrappy affair with both teams committing numerous fouls and the referee being forced to brandish the yellow card on more then one occasion.
There was huge moment of controversy right near the end of the game when Pattaya United striker Thana Chanabutr had a goal disallowed for offside just when he appeared to have claimed all three points for the home team. The official’s decision was not well received by the more than 2,500 spectators in the stadium who weren’t shy at letting the referee know their feelings.
The final whistle sounded soon after to leave both teams having to settle for a point each. Pattaya manager Pansak Ketwatha paid compliments to both teams and the supporters in the post match press conference and said he hopes for a better performance from his team in their next match.
Pattaya’s next game is an away fixture against Nakhon Pathom this Sunday, March 15 with a 4 p.m. kick-off. The next home match will be another local derby on March 22 against Chonburi F.C., kick-off at 6 p.m.
Pattaya United have recently opened a new club store on Pattaya Third Road close to TOT and Carrefour where all the official merchandise can be purchased. For the latest news about the ‘Blue & White Dolphins’ check the Pattaya Mail sports pages each week or go to the club website at www.pattayautd.com.

The 2,500 fans celebrate the home team’s equalizer.

GIS hosts inaugural Valentine’s Day Invitational Basketball Tournament

The Benjama boys team – champions for 2009.

ICS Eagles gave a great performance in the final.

The GIS girls gave a good account of themselves, finishing as runners-up.

ICS Eagles were worthy winners of the Girls tournament.

Doug Lynch
The Garden International School played host to the first annual Valentine’s Day Invitational Varsity Boys and Girls Basketball Tournament on February 13 & 14. The six schools participating were GIS, International Community School (ICS), Siam International School, International School Eastern Seaboard (ISE), International School of Myanmar (ISM) and the Benjama School.

Action from the Boys final.
Action started on Friday as the GIS boys and girls teams went up against ISM. In the girl’s game, ISM squeaked out a 28-27 overtime victory while the GIS boys defeated ISM 29-14. In the afternoon’s second games, the dominating ICS girl’s team cruised to a 48-3 win over Siam and the Benjama boys overpowered ISE, 49-18.
After the schools settled into their hotels, they returned to GIS for a western style BBQ sponsored by Best Quality Foods. The players and coaches then attended a Valentine’s Dance, organized by the GIS IB students and featuring the music of DJ Attikel.
Saturday’s games started bright and early at 8 a.m. and went through until 5 p.m. with many quality games played leading up to the Championship Finals.
In the Girls 3rd place game, ISM took advantage of a tired Siam squad to win 19-4. Erica led the way with 9 points, Kalayar added 6, Thee Noe had 2 while both Kathys chipped in 1 point apiece. Paweena and Matilde scored for Siam.

ICS Eagles on the offensive against the GIS girls.
The Boys 3rd place game saw the GIS Storm take on ISM for the second time in the tournament. GIS jumped out to an early lead only to see ISM cut it down to three, 16-13 at the half. However, the second half saw the Storm turn up the defensive pressure and outscore ISM 11-2. This was enough to give GIS a 27-15 victory. Stian and Ruben led all scorers with 8 points each, Guy and Jan each scored 4 while Nic and Q added 2 and 1 respectively. Yarzar was the leading scorer for ISM with 7 points.
In the Girls Final, the experienced ICS Eagles took on the GIS Storm in a David vs Goliath contest. ICS used their full court pressure, size and speed to dominate the game from the outset. The Eagles never looked back as they jumped out to a 15-1 halftime lead and cruised to a 33-6 victory.
Despite the final score, GIS must be congratulated on their effort as they never gave up and played until the final whistle. Sandi led all scorers with 10 points, Becky scored 8, Sandi had 7, Tub had 4 while Joanne and Ruth Ann each chipped in with 2. Naz Neufeld scored all 6 points for GIS.
In the Boys Final, the two strongest teams, ICS Eagles and Benjama, met in a much anticipated Championship showdown. Everyone expected a close, hard fought game and that’s exactly what they got, although it didn’t look that way as the teams started the 4th quarter.
ICS knew they would have their hands full with a Benjama team that averaged 45 points through their first three games, but they were determined to end their season in style.
The Eagles came out strong to lead 12-8 after a low scoring first half. It looked as if we would have an ICS sweep as the Eagles outscored Benjama 12-3 in the 3rd quarter to take a commanding 24-11 lead into the final 8 minutes. However, Benjama would not back down. They chipped away at the lead by pressuring ICS and forcing some uncharacteristic turnovers. This constant man to man full court pressure led to five Benjama 3-pointers in a thrilling fourth quarter.
ICS held a two point lead with under two minutes remaining when Por hit his third consecutive 3-pointer to give Benjama a 30-29 lead. After Gun made 1of 2 free throws, the Eagles last gasp, a half court shot from Top, came up short and Benjama had completed the comeback, winning 31-29.
The scorers for Benjama were Por with 9 points, Aof scored 6, Thee and Gun had 5 each, John added 4 and Golf had 2. For the Eagles, Adam led all scorers with 11, Sun Woo had 9, point guard Top scored 6, while Jonathan and Athikom had 2 and 1, respectively.
It was a great finish to a wonderful two days of basketball. We would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous contributions: Best Quality Foods, Bangkok Rayong Hospital, Three Trans, Nestle, Pepsi, Rocket Products and Supersports. We would also like to thank the following members of the GIS community for their help: Razon family, Churakova family, Hubbard family, Persson family, Kang family, Minhas family, Philip family and Svensson family. And finally, a big thank you to all the schools for attending and we hope to see everyone again next year.

Platu Championship Series launches this weekend

Platus racing in 2008.

Kipsan Beck
Thailand’s largest one-design keelboat fleet commences the Platu Championships this coming weekend, March 14-15; the start of a 4-event series to decide who is the best one-design racing team.
Held in identical 25-foot Platu racing boats, a class designed by Bruce Farr with more than 800 boats worldwide, the championship series features 4 different series held off Ocean Marina Yacht Club in beautiful Jomtien.
Following racing in March, the Coronation Cup held as part of the Top of the Gulf Regatta in 1-4 May is a trophy in honour of His Majesty the King of Thailand who was sailing champion in OK dinghies and other classes. The Platu Cup in August and the final Thailand Platu National Championship complete the total of 28 races over which a champion is determined.
In 2008, local team The Lofts Southshore won the overall championship, skippered by Scott Duncanson aided by Kevin Scott who is one of the oldest competitive sailors in the class worldwide. The win saw them earn the chance to compete against New Zealand’s best in the New Zealand Keelboat Nationals where they reached the gold fleet against competitors such as America’s Cup ETNZ skipper Dean Barker.
In previous years, Thai team Naiad, local hotshot Morten Jacobsen and visiting foreign sailors such as Australian Rolf Helmskirk have won key events, so it is expected to be a closely fought battle in 2009.
The strictly controlled Platu class measures sails and boats to ensure fairness, with many crews forced to diet prior to racing in order to meet the strict weight limits. Racing commences on Saturday, March 14 with the crew weigh-ins, and a total of more than 15 boats are expected to compete over the 2-day event. Local keelboat and multihull fleets will continue monthly racing at the same venue.
This event is part of the lead up to the highlight Top Of the Gulf Regatta from 1-4 May, featuring hundreds of the region’s best sailors in boats ranging from 8 foot Optimists up to the mighty 75 foot Jelik, racing in Pattaya for the first time.
For interested sailors wishing to join, visit www.omycsailing.com for more information.

The Haven retain The Challenge Jug

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 2, Khao Kheow (Yellow) - Stableford
Div. 1 (0-13)
1st Masanori Takano 40pts
2nd Alan Hanlon 38pts
3rd Barry Traynor 36pts
4th Alan Griffiths 35pts
Div. 2 (14+)
1st Serge Straeten 34pts
2nd Tony Barritt 32pts
3rd Konrad Klama 32pts
4th Dirk Fleenor 31pts
Another large turnout required the formation of two divisions as the group from Soi 13 took on the forbidding, off the yellows at least, Khao Kheow and with the wind gusting strongly it was unsurprising that only three players played to, or bettered their handicaps.
Masanori Takano took good note of the previous warning regarding the eligibility of his driver under the rules and played with his 4 wood to even better effect, as he returned the best of the day four-under handicap to deny Alan Hanlon’s two-under top spot. Barry Traynor looked in good form for the upcoming match with a steady par round for third place, with Alan Griffiths also showing well at one-over 35.
The second division was headed by Serge Straeten with what was under the conditions a fine two-over handicap with Tony Barritt taking second by a better count back of 17 against Konrad Klama’s 12, after the latter had set the course alight on the front nine. Dirk Fleenor slipped in under the radar with a five-over his newly acquired handicap for last place.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Masanori Takano and Tony Barritt had one each in the first division.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new members Jun Ishihara, Richard Dobson, Dirk Fleenor, Jimmy Cloy, Richard Neill and also welcomed back Brian Beaupre, Rick Schramm, Pen Carruthers, Tore Eliason, Victor Reimer, Benn Nelson, Peter Skinner and Alan Venner.
Wednesday, March 4, Crystal Bay - Stableford
Div. 1 (0-13)
1st Bob Lamond 36pts
2nd Frank Hughes 35pts
3rd Keith Emerson 34pts
4th Alan Howell 33pts
5th Brian Beaupre 33pts
Div. 2 (14+)
1st Paul Taylor 40pts
2nd Danny Greer 37pts
3rd Jun Ishihara 32pts
4th Ole Stamnes 32pts
5th John Forgie 32pts
With another big attendance once again two divisions were the order of the day.
Bob Lamond cleaned up in the first division with a solid even par round to best Frank Hughes by a shot with Keith Emerson another shot back in third.
Alan Howell won the count back for fourth with 16 and 11 on the back six from Brian Beaupre with just 16 & 10 and Takeshi Hakozaki, unable to get any members bounces, in sixth with a count back of 16 & 9.
Paul Taylor swept back into the first division 2’s reckoning for next weeks games with a very good four under handicap to beat out Danny Greer who was hopeful of a top spot after a while in the doldrums.
Jun Ishihara got into the swing with an early visit to the podium in third with Ole Stamnes and John Forgie battling it out on the count back which Ole won with a 16 to john’s 14.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Russell Exley, Rick Schramm, Gerald Decio and Brad Sproxton shared the first division pool.
Prior to the presentations, Brad Sproxton and John Forgie were welcomed as new members and Mike Flynn, Bob Lamond and B.J. Smith were welcomed back.
Friday, March 6 Bangpra - Stableford
1st Alan Howell 37pts
2nd Yasuo Suzuki 34pts
3rd Serge Straeten 34pts
4th Jimmy Cloy 32pts
5th Paul Taylor 31pts
6th Dave Spendley 31pts
Bangpra proved to every bit as difficult as the two previous outings of the week with seemingly all the tees set back as far as possible off the new white positions making scoring a little on the hard side.
Alan Howell slipped in the best of the day at one-under 37, ahead of Yasuo Suzuki who took second with a better count back of 20 to Serge Straeten’ s 17. Jimmy Cloy took his first placing in sole fourth spot, with Paul Taylor besting Dave Spendley for fifth by a better back nine of 18 to Dave’s 12.
At last there was a 2 in the second division, achieved by Serge Straeten, who had no idea that there was a quadruple roll over and therefore did not dummy from 18", as he had done the last time when the pot was more than double the days pool, and was therefore extremely pleased to learn of his good fortune. Kazuo Takimoto had the only one in the first division and collected about a quarter of the second division pot.
The Thailand
Challenge Jug
The reason for the being only one division in the Stableford competition on Friday was that The Haven matchplay team was engaged in a match against the touring members of South Herts Golf Club from North London.
Once again The Haven were victorious, but true to tradition did not make a meal of it and spent all night buying the drinks from the beer kitty until the visitors had been seen off the premises fairly late in the night.
As in the last encounter, The Haven won by a margin of 5 to 3 with the result hinging on the last two matches out on the course but lying dormie 4 in games won in the eight a side match. Unfortunately Chris Knapp came up against an extremely “in form” Alan Venner and even though he received two shots he could not hold on as Alan took it 4 & 3.
Fortunately, on the other hand, Stephen Beard was lucky to find Mike Flynn a little under the weather as he tied it up early on the back nine at 6 & 5.
Trevor Schirmer had immediately previously won his match against Gerald Decio 3 & 1 after being two down earlier in the day while Tony Barritt just failed to get back to Jun Ishihara after being dormie 3 to lose 1 down.
The second group had comprised Alan Griffiths who made very short work of the over taxed George Oakley winning 7 & 5 as Norman Isherwood took care of Bob Heath 2 & 1 after a titanic struggle.
The top match set the day up with The Havens “stick of rock” unable to find his usual matchplay form as he went down 2 & 1 to Jim Slattery, but in the same four-ball Rick Holmes, a late draftee for the ailing Barry Traynor, repaid the confidence of his captain as he ran out the winner 3 & 2 against the tenacious Peter Skinner.
The final decision was a great match played in the best spirit and tradition with honours almost halved and a great day’s golf.
Individual Results (South Hearts G.C. listed first): Jim Slattery won 2 & 1 Russell Exley; Peter Skinner lost 3 & 2 Rick Holmes; Bob Heath lost 2 &1 Norman Isherwood; George Oakley lost 7 & 5 Alan Griffiths; Gerald Decio lost 3 &1 Trevor Schirmer; Jun Ishihara won 1 up Tony Barritt; Alan Venner won 4 & 3 Chris Knapp; Mike Flynn lost 6 & 5 Stephen Beard.

Juicy Gerrard scrambles to victory

PSC golf with The Phoenix Tuesday Group

Mike Gerrard
Tuesday, March 3, Phoenix (Mountain & Lakes) - Medal
As we set off from the Mountain 1st hole today we wondered whether we would be able to get a full game in. The weather was very wet and it looked certain to stay that way for a long while.

Mike Gerrard (center) with Gary Blackburne and Patrick Brown.

So after not having time to loosen up before starting, my drive ended up on the 9th fairway. My second was supposed to be on the 9th tee so as to chip over the trees to the 1st green. Think again MacDuff … after shanking the shot into the ditch behind the 1st green on Lakes course (still in bounds by the way), I was playing 5 to the green on Mountain course. This I managed to do and after two putts recorded a 7. Three over to start a stroke play medal round!
The rain was still quite heavy, so after waiting for about 15 minutes under shelter there appeared a break in the clouds. The gamble paid off. Slowly the rain clouds dispersed and from then on it was glorious weather, except that it is now getting a little humid. Moaning old sod aint I.
The rest of the game is as exactly what the headlines say: after another triple bogey on the 16th par 3, plus another couple of silly holes, but with a lot of pars, the Scribe came in with a net 72 to win the day.
Two shots behind was the ever consistent Gary Blackburne (net 74) who shared second place with Patrick Brown (also net 74). Our other player in the group, Hugh Byrne, did not fair so well today, but after 18 holes of great fun and rivalry we finished all square on the four-ball better ball match, this after Hugh’s game saving putt on the last.
But what does all that matter when you see his lovely wife come to join us and help with the lucky draw. Once again she did not pull mine out (or her husbands).
We welcomed some new players today from Italy and Ireland (Their flags are the same colour you know, but in a different order) and for the first time every player came back to Toy’s Bar for the presentation.
This was bad news for the victors of the day. After paying for the first drink out of the registration fees for the day, and deducting the value of the technical prizes and lucky draw, we were left with 350 baht to pay the first three places: 150 baht to the winner and 100 baht to the two second placed guys. Never mind the management of Toy’s Bar (as always on monthly medal day) donated two small bottles of white wine for the victor of the day. Luvvly Jubbly!
Once again our dear regular friend Giorgio Baccioli donated a voucher (value 500 baht) for his beautiful restaurant Trattatoria (on Pratumnuk Road Jomtien), which was won by Cathal Donaghue, who also won one of the near pin technical prizes.
The other technical prizes went to Mike Gerrard and Giorgio Baccioli while the lucky draw golf balls went to Toma Francesco and Tom Breslyn.
Next week it’s back to stableford play at 12.00 noon. Call me on 087 091 7565 if you would like to join in the fun.

Green Chilli and Café Ole starting strong

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Tue Pettae, Dung Downs, Ooy Pluemkamon,
 Kaew, Kran Nielsen and Nok Kennedy.

Green Chilli and Café Ole both won 4 point and now share the top stop after week 2 of the PSC Bowling League. Dung Downs bowled a 207 game, 530 series and Noodle Russell had a 514 for Green Chilli as they took all 4 points from Indiana. P.K. bowled a 544 series for Café Ole to help them take all 4 points from Bavaria.
Wade Meyers bowled a 523 series to lead Brother D to a 3 point win over SaBai SaBai Friday. Nok Kennedy bowled a 205 game and 562 series for SaBai. Kran Nielsen had a 200 game and a 551 series as her Café Kronborg rolled over Bavaria and won all 4 points.
Sala Thai Restaurant took 3 points from Jack Tar and VFW Post 9876 won 3 from Canada. Kaew led VFW with a 200 game and 552 series. Ooy Pluemkamon had a 213 game for Canada. Bowling as Pacers Rich Montana had a 549 series and Tue Pettae rolled a 548 series.

Highest of the week for Brian

Kubicki signs off in style

PSC golf from the Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, March 2, Greenwood – Stableford
The Greenwood A&B layouts were the host for a stableford competition in two flights with the cut at handicap 18. The course on the day was in very good condition as reflected by the scores.

Richard Kubicki was a double A Flight winner.

Richard Kubicki took the A Flight with 41 points ahead of Terry Pettit in second on count back over Mike Winfield in third, both with 39 points. Brian Gabe was in fourth with 38 points over Doug Maiko and Dave Richardson on count back.
In the B Flight the winner was Per Anders Karlsen with a superb 44 points ahead of Leif Kirkegaarde in second with 39 points. In third was Patrick Browne with 38 points and in fourth was Jesper Rasmusson on count back over Bent Moeller, both with 37 points.
Near Pins: Leif Kirkegaarde, Elias Magnusson, John Ostrom, Brian Gabe
Long Put: Mike Rushant, Terry Pettit
Thursday, March 5, Crystal Bay – Stableford
The test for the day at Crystal Bay was to be the A&B nines, not a bad 18 holes and on the day under assault from a strong wind.
This has always been one of my favourite courses, and not having played it for a long time until recently I can see how it is something of a faded glory. Still, with the new good green fee rate it is always a fine day out
On this day with the stiff breeze I expected the scores to be mediocre, and I was not let down, indeed I even thought I had a chance with 36 points having played quite well, but I reckoned without ‘The Mighty Kubicki’ and his great ability to win on count back.
In the A Flight, 0 to 16, the winner with 36 points was Richard Kubicki on count back from the scribe, Derek Brook. Someone up there doesn’t love me, not that I blame them! In third place was Doug Maiko with 34 points and in fourth was Walter Bachlae with 33 points, all quite good scores.
In the B Flight the winner was Jan Lovgren with 36 points, and then the scores went down a little bit. In second was Dave Richardson with 30 points on count back over Leif Kirkegaarde in third. In fourth was Carole Kubicki with 29 points.
We say goodbye to ‘The Kubicki’s’ for another year as they go back to the U.K, but they will be missed. However, it does give some others a chance to win. T.T.F.N.

ASEAN Basketball League looks for new franchises

Since the launch of the ASEAN Basketball League in Kuala Lumpur on January 19, 2009, the South East Asian Basketball Association has been getting an unexpectedly positive response from interested parties from around the ASEAN region.
In a sure sign that sports transcends all barriers even in times of economic uncertainty, as many as 14 private individuals and companies have expressed interest in putting in a bid to buy a franchise license that will enable them to take part in the ASEAN Basketball League, the first of its kind in the region.
In order for a team owner to qualify as one of the ABL franchise teams, they must invest in a solid development program for youth, have a stable financial standing as well as willing to invest in quality players and infrastructure.
The ABL is an initiative between private investors from various industries and the South East Asian Basketball Association (SEABA) to create a regional basketball league that would be open to professional teams owned and operated by private owners.
In the first year 8 teams across ASEAN will be picked to form the ABL. A team will consist of a mixture of international and local players. Tentatively a team will be made up of 2 international players, 2 ASEAN players, one player with a parent from ASEAN and 7 local players. This will be a balanced mix of international experience and local heroes.
The League is scheduled to start in September 2009, with games being held until February 2010. Subsequent years will see the league start earlier.
Companies or individuals who wish to submit a bid to enter a team in the ABL should contact the ASEAN Basketball League at +603-7962 5813 or +6012-3311 398, email franchise@ aseanbasketballleague.com.

A tough day at the office

The North Face River Kwai Trophy 2009

Matt McLaughlin
Organized by Active Management Asia and supported by The North Face, Amarin Plaza and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the 4th edition of this popular race in Kanchanaburi attracted 120 teams from across Asia and beyond. Part of the Amazing Adventure Race Series, this has become one of the most popular events of its kind in Asia.

The rocky trials took their toll on all the athletes
The night before the race, and with a sense of humour as dry as the hills surrounding the Sayok Country Resort, Race Director Serge Henkens described the treats that lay ahead for competitors: the searing heat and risk of dehydration and heat stroke; razor sharp stumps in bamboo thickets; loose gravel roads; and the threats posed by the local nasties - snakes, spiders, stray dogs and mosquitoes. Mandatory equipment included a minimum of two spare inner tubes per team, and Serge urged us to take more if possible. His warnings about punctures were to prove prophetic.
The starter’s gun went off at 8.40am, with the field quickly spreading out as we followed the trail of orange ribbons along a 10km running section into the countryside. From an undulating dirt road through dry farmlands we turned off into a bamboo thicket to experience the first of Kanchanaburi’s hills. Although not high, they were steep, and a jumbled confusion of sharp protruding rock formations, bamboo, and loose soil. The jagged domed peaks of this area were reminiscent of Vietnam’s Halong Bay, and Guilin in China.
Over the next several hours we willed ourselves onwards: a bike section along gravel roads through a patchwork of parched fields and watering holes; another running section through bamboo-clad foothills and up and over another of the rocky peaks before a descent to the river. The waiting lineup of kayaks could not have come at a better time, as by now we were desperate to get into the water. The two water stages, kayaking and swimming, were a reprieve from the intense heat – the temperature by now was over 40 degrees Celsius.

Team work is one of the key elements to success.
All too soon, after views of local raft-houses, sheer cliffs and an elevated section of the iconic railway, we were back on terra firma and directed by race marshals to continue on another running stage. With the heat and humidity taking its toll on competitors, the ribbons led us back to our bikes, for what we were told was a 21km ride to the finish. On this section Serge’s words of warning about punctures would come back to haunt many teams.
We cycled along dusty four-wheel-drive tracks through the jungle, alternately negotiating deep wheel-ruts choked with energy sapping fine red dust, and short but awkward technical rocky sections. It was here that we started passing teams, both Extreme and Adventure category, hunched over their upturned bikes replacing tubes or taking turns feverishly pumping air back into their freshly fixed tyres. I saw the look of frustration in their eyes, but also a grim determination to finish.

Occasional dips in the river brought some welcome relief from the heat.
With energy levels drained I suffered on the last stages of the bike section, as we passed others who had also reached the limit of their endurance in the testing conditions. Teams sheltered in the limited shade by the side of the track, cooling off and mustering the strength for the final push to the finish line. It was only the words of encouragement from my team-mate that kept my focus on the task at hand, and away from the pain.
The last challenge was a 200 metre swim across a watering hole, with one truck tyre tube per team (another welcome cooling off), before a 2km ride to the finish line. It had been one hell of a tough day at the office.
Later, at the prize giving dinner, I commiserated with a team who had been in second place only to puncture a tyre on the last bike stage and lose their chance of a podium finish. One of the racers, a convivial kiwi, shrugged his shoulders and smiled at me: “Mate, that’s why they call it Adventure Racing!” He was right. And what an adventure it had been. Thanks go to Serge and the team at Active Management Asia - we look forward to next year’s race.
Note: The next event part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series will take place in Chiang Mai on May 9. For more details go to the official website at www.chiangmaichallenge.com.

Competitors gather at the start of the 2009
 North Face River Kwai Trophy adventure race.

‘Pink Power’ rules at first female polo event in Thailand

Charity woman’s polo tournament to help breast cancer care & research

(Above) Fashion was the watchword at the ‘Pink Polo’ women’s tournament.

PM Reporters
The Thai Polo & Equestrian Club in Pattaya was filled to capacity with all shades of pink on Sunday, March 1 as the ‘Pink Polo’ women’s tournament was played out to a colourful conclusion.
Organized by Nunthinee Tanner, the managing director of LBG Limited, an importer and distributor for the Escada luxurious fashion brand in Thailand, the event was held to raise funds to provide lifesaving access and care at the King Chulalongkorn hospital’s Queen Sirikit Center for Breast Cancer research and treatment. The tournament was presided over by M.L. Piyapas Bhirombhakdi.
Pink Polo was the first-ever women’s polo tournament in Thailand and provided a veritable feast for the senses: gourmet cuisine was laid on, the tea-reception was first class and the marvelous polo game at the end served as fitting finale to this wonderful event.
Amongst the VIP guests in attendance were Mom Chailai Yukala, Khunying Dhipavadee Meksawan, M.L. Napas Rajdni, Pol. Maj. Gen. Angkul and Supatana Atorn-phtai, Kanchari Buranasomphob, Pornpan Pookaiyaudom and Pornsri Prachuabmoh.

Escada and Thai Polo go head to head in the final match.
One of the highlights of the day in the lead up to the polo match was the fabulous ‘Pink Collection’ fashion show on horseback, which provided a novel way of displaying the latest chic designs from fashion houses such as Escada, Burberry, La Perla and La Martina. The fashion show was led by Thai polo player Pongsiree Bunluewong and included top fashion models such as Lalita Sasiprapha, who is also one of the ambassadors for the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer.
To keep the younger equestrian fans entertained there were polo lessons and pony rides available, and later a polo match between two junior teams.
With the preliminaries completed, it was then time for the grand finale – a match between the Escada Team and the Thai Polo Team to decide who would be this year’s champions.
The Escada Team was captained by Nunthinee Tanner, ably supported by Claudia Zeisberger, Daryl Yeap and Melissa Liern. The Thai Polo Team led by Assunta Link had a strong line-up with Caroline Link, Karen Gan and Charlotte Marson in its ranks. The contest was closely fought with some great horsemanship on view but in the final chukka the Escada team piled on the pressure and eventually ran out victors by a score of 5-3½. The Escada team was duly crowned this year’s Pink Polo champions and they lifted Her Majesty the Queen’s trophy to rapturous applause from the spectators.
In her closing speech to the audience, Nunthinee said, “We hope that the event successfully encouraged public attention to women in need and awareness of the threat of breast cancer and finally we hope it introduced a new generation to have more interest in the game of polo.”

A stylishly dressed duo lead out the teams.

The junior polo players had their own fun.

(Above and below): Pink was definitely the colour in vogue at the Thai Polo & Equestrian Club on Sunday, March 1.

Escada players hold aloft HM the Queen’s trophy as the rest of the teams
and officials celebrate a wonderful, successful, and notably colourful day.

Oakes masters the red, white and blues

PSC golf from The Beaver Bar & Grill

Larry Willett
Friday, March 6 saw 24 golfers arrive at the Emerald Golf Club in Ban Chang once again to vie for top honors in the group. Several of the players had already played a lot of golf this week as Eddie and Apple Blackwell led a small group up to the Khao Yai Park where they played for 3 days before returning to take part in the weekly Beaver Bar golf.
The day started with a different twist to the standard golf as it was agreed that all would play red, white and blue tee boxes in this order.
Top honors again went to Tony Oakes with 36 points followed by Mark Campbell in second with 34 points who beat out Geoff Moodie on a count back. Fourth place went to Matt Millar with 33 points on a count back over Dave Richards.

Parker tops the lot with net 66

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, March 2, Royal Lakeside - Medal
Having not played the Royal Lakeside course for quite some time, the little extra travelling time was worthwhile as it was a pleasure to play here again. The course was in its usual immaculate condition and it made for some marvellous scoring on what was a lovely day for golf.

Friday winner Gerry Cooney (left) celebrates with Alan Sullivan.

Tony Scambler thought he had it in the bag when he came into the clubhouse with a three-under par score but it was only enough to finish third in the A Flight. Alan Sullivan had similar thoughts when he finished with a four-under par score on his card, but he only took second place as it was Geoff Parker who stole the show to win with a fantastic six-under par net 66.
The cut was at handicap 16 and in the B Flight Jack Robertson beat PJ on a count back to win after both shot one under par scores. Bernie Stevens came in third a couple of shots further back.
A Flight
1st Geoff Parker (15) net 66
2nd Alan Sullivan (13) net 68
3rd Tony Scambler (7) net 69
B Flight
1st Jack Robertson (21) net 71
2nd PJ Redmond (17) net 71
3rd Bernie Stevens (18) net 73
Near Pins: Tom McDowell, Jack Robertson, Bernie Stevens and Alan Sullivan.
Wednesday, March 4, Bangpra – Medal
It was a case of “which Geoff?” when the Bunker Boy’s played a medal round at Bangpra. With just one flight today Geoff Cox, on his first game back since returning from the UK, won with a one over par score. Geoff Parker got in the frame again to take the runner up spot just two shots behind, and Geoff Hart took fourth place with only Mashi squeezing between them to claim third place.
Oddly enough none of the Geoff’s won any of the near pin prizes.
1st Geoff Cox (12) net 73
2nd Geoff Parker (13) net 75
3rd Mashi Kaneta (11) net 78
4th Geoff Hart (21) net 81
Near Pins: Mashi, Glen Cunningham, Colin Stokes and William Macey.
Friday, March 6, Khaow Kheow - Stableford
Playing stableford at Khao Kheow where good scores are always hard to come by, it was Gerry Cooney who took the honours. The course was in its usual tip-top condition with the fairways a joy to play off.
With only one flight again, Gerry won by three points ahead of three players who all finished with 31 points - on a count back PJ was runner up, Tony Scambler came third and Mike Corner was fourth.
1st Gerry Cooney (11) 34pts
2nd PJ Redmond (17) 31pts
3rd Tony Scambler (6) 31pts
4th Mike Corner (22) 31pts
Near Pins: John Robert son, Alan Sullivan, Gary Warburton (2).

Caddies show more polish than players at Mountain Shadow

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

The top four from Mountain Shadow: Peter Whitehead, Martin Phillips,
John Vincent and Scott Dobbins.

Thomas Cotton and
Dick Warberg
Tuesday, March 3, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
The ample number of golfers who met at Bert’s on Tuesday morning were augmented by a group from the Bentley Golf Club of Essex, England. So the contingent this day was overwhelmingly British. Our Captain had arranged for us to play the redoubtable Mountain Shadow course and he had warned several of us that this was the toughest course on the Eastern Seaboard.
However, as we assembled on the first tee, we observed the caddies admiring each other’s manicures. Some were excessively dolled-up in make-up as one would expect of a bar on Walking Street. Indeed, the caddies were much more intrigued with each other’s nails than the arrival of the golfers intent on challenging this difficult course (made more-so by our captain’s mendacious choice of the blue tees). One player was heard to remark that the course could be more appropriately named “Manicure Mountain”.
After we had teed-off, some ominous looking dark clouds cleared the mountain and threatened play. It did rain a bit for the first nine holes which sent the caddies scurrying to find gloves to protect their precious hands. However, these clouds eventually blew away and the golfers were able to reclaim the caddies’ attention.
After play, the golfers retired to the dressing room to attend to their own nails, a pursuit which was obstructed by the neglected state of the showers and the dearth of nail polish thereat.
As the foursomes finished and the score cards were duly surrendered, it became apparent that the scores in A Flight were going to be respectable and that the course had been bettered. This put most of us in a jolly mood as we headed back to Tropical Bert’s to salute the winners.
A Flight (0-16)
1st Martin Philips 38pts
2nd Scott Dobbins 38pts
3rd Allan Bellett 37pts
4th Kevin Dunne, 32pts
B Flight (17-up)
1st Peter Whitehead 33pts
2nd John Vincent 32pts
3rd Frank Pilkington 31pts
4th Mike Clarke 30pts
Near Pins: Scott Dobbins, Mashi Kenata, Brian Downey, Kevin Dunne
Long Putts: DB
Friday, March 6, Crystal Bay - Stableford
No match play today, just 16 eager golfers ready to take on Crystal Bay C and A nines.
Booking-in with the vouchers went smoothly and the first four-ball was off before our scheduled tee time. The course, while a little bare in spots, was in good condition and with the greens running true.
After the round it was back down Sukhumvit to Bert’s where the prize giving got underway. Mashi Kaneta played very well this day and walked away as the overall winner plus half of the technical prizes. Narrowly missing out on winning was Richard Kubicki, who with wife Carol, are departing for home and were playing their final round of golf for this season. In third place was Peter Whitehead.
Note: If you are interested in a game on a Friday with a good bunch of people, stop by and sign up at Tropical Bert’s on Pattaya 2nd Road next to Soi 6 (Yodsak)
1st Mashi Kaneta (11) 38pts
2nd Richard Kubicki (10) 37pts
3rd Peter Whitehead (23) 35pts
Near Pins: Richard Kubicki, Mashi Kaneta(2), Roy Fisher
Long Putts: Mashi Kaneta, John Vincent  

Scores back to normal

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

March came in like a lion with several smash-bash thunderstorms, but not on this 3rd of March at the Pattaya Country Club as the Three Sisters gang took to the fairways.
Again teeing off at 06:30, the groups moved around the course with no holdups to speak of. A single and a two-some were allowed to move through but that was it. The weather was great and toward the finish some nice clouds appeared to cool off the effects of sun.
There was no repeat of the miracle score of last week and our regular at the top was Bob Benda with 35 points followed by Walt Straub with a 32.
The group retired to Caddy Shack II where Herbie Ishinaga provided regular and “spicy” sausages to be consumed with a variety of beverages to include Diet Coke?, San Miguel Lite and Heineken beer.

Staley shines with 44-pointer at Emerald

PSC golf form The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, March 2, Burapha - Stableford
Whilst Pattaya was getting the heavy rain, the 44 Outbackers were sweating it out on the C & D nines at Burapha. Tough enough it can be from the blue tees, but with just about 100% humidity, it was fairly exhausting. Neil Lavery, fit young man that he is, came through it well though, with a brilliant 40 points and a new handicap of 10. He was four clear of Bob Rix and course specialist Eddie Smith, both on 36.

Kathy Doody, George Gardner & Tanaya were the star turns at Green Valley.

Andy Butterworthy took Div B with a fine 38 points from another regular Outbacker, Rosco Langoulant (36), who in turn was six clear of third placed Fred Gemme (30). Div C seemed to suffer the most in the testing conditions with just 33 points being sufficient to win it, however, when it came to the count back, Bruce McAdam had done just enough to beat Pete Stonebridge.
There were just seven men and one lady in Div D, the men playing from the white tees. Brian Maddox was the man, scoring 36 points from the one lady, Jum with 32.
There were six ‘2’s from Brain Maddox, Neil Lavery, Jack Moseley, Jum, Jean Guy Gaudet & Pete Stonebridge.
Div A (0-12)
1st Neil Lavery (11) 40pts
2nd Robert Rix (5) 36pts
3rd Eddie Smith (10) 36pts
Div B (13-15)
1st Andy Butterworthy (13) 38pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (15) 36pts
3rd Fred Gemme (13) 30pts
Div C (16-19)
1st Bruce McAdam (18) 33pts
2nd Peter Stonebridge (18) 33pts
3rd Eric Curley (16) 32pts
Div D (20+) white tees
1st Brian Maddox (21) 36pts
2nd Jum Karagit (29) 32pts
Tuesday, March 3, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
The regular Outbackers on this popular local course were joined by a few Aussie boys, sharpening their game for the annual TIAC cup, which starts at Burapha next week. So with the numbers up to 25 today, the field was split into two divisions at the 20 mark.
Allan McMullan (Aussie boy) took Div A with an excellent 40 points on a course that can be particularly tricky and unpredictable for the newcomer, so that earned him a handicap cut to 13 the next time he plays with the Outback. In second was Chris Ronnblad with 37 and Neil Lavery took third off his new handicap of ten. In fourth was George Gardner (Aussie boy), last years winner of Nigel Cannon’s Outbacker Birthday Cup, and he will be defending his trophy in two weeks time on this course.
Speaking of Nigel Cannon, up comes his name again today as winner of Div B, with another excellent 40 points (h’cap cut Nigel!) He was four clear of John Lawton, who had a good round of 36 points, and that ever youthful golf veteran, Arthur Bailey, back in third with 35.
The’2’s pot was another jackpot, scooped by Henry O’Brien.
Div A (0-19)
1st Allan McMullan (14) 40pts
2nd Chris Ronblad (19) 37pts
3rd Neil Lavery (10) 35pts
Div B (20+)
1st Nigel Cannon (24) 40pts
2nd John Lawton (21) 36pts
3rd Arthur Bailey (22) 35pts
Wednesday, March 4, The Emerald - Stableford
On a fine morning, 25 Outbackers made their way to The Emerald under the watchful eye of Capt. Bob. It was fairly empty so we were off on time and rounds of four hours gave plenty of time afterwards to consider how they all played and discuss it with others before the presentation at the Outback later! The course was in good shape but like many courses at this time of year, looking a little tired.
Once again an international field played in two divisions with 4 nationalities in the winners circle.
The ‘A’ flight winner was Steve Staley (12) with a great 44 points, (also winning a long running wager with good friend Lloyd Shuttleworth who has a handicap of 1!) The runner-up in the flight was Eric Curley (16) with 40 points. Both received immediate cuts to 10.4 and 14.8 respectively. In third place was regular ‘Outbacker’ Micheal Waltschek (8) with 37 points and in fourth it was Rick Evans (6) with 35 – no doubt we shall see Rick’s name in the frame during the next 4 weeks.
The ‘B’ flight winner was the lovely Kanlaya Karagit (or Jum to her friends) with 36 points off her ever reducing handicap of 29. For some reason, Jum was the only one rewarded with a ‘Capt Bob kiss! Gary Saunders (23) was runner-up with 34 points and just a point behind was the previous day’s winner Nigel Cannon with 33 points off his reduced handicap of 22. The Jersey man, Brian Maddox (21) was in fourth place with 29.
There were just two ‘2’s coming from Jum and Steve Staley - guess who got the kiss?
Div A (0-16)
1st Steve Staley (12) 44pts
2nd Eric Curley (16) 40pts
3rd Michael Waltschek (8) 37pts
4th Rick Evans (6) 35pts
Div B (17+)
1st Jum Karagit (29) 36pts
2nd Gary Saunders (23) 34pts
3rd Nigel Cannon (22) 33pts
4th Brian Maddox (21) 29pts
Thursday, March 5, Green Valley - Stableford
It was another good round from Kathy Doody, heightened by her chip-in birdie for 4 points on the eighteenth. Mindful of the interim handicap cutting procedure adopted by the PSC, ahead of the three tournaments in Chiang Mai next week, she had already racked up 39 points after seventeen holes and had commented previously to her playing partners that she didn’t need to score any more points! Never mind Kathy, great score; and it doesn’t matter too much anyway, as the new official handicap revisions are due out Sat., March 7.
George Gardner won Div A with an excellent 38 points and there were plenty of other good scores around, particularly for those playing in the monthly ladder, a record 19 Outbackers this month. John Lawton 38 points (second in Div B) collected 2 ladder points; whilst Geoff Doody 34 points (third in Div B), Sugar Ray 33 points, Bob Pearce 34 points (third in Div A) and Rosco 34 points, all picked up 1 ladder point each. Kathy, by the way, got 3.
Tanaya, aka Som, who amassed twelve points playing off 44 in her first tournament with Outback, collected a very special prize from boyfriend, Jean Guy.
For the record there were 23 Outbackers playing today and there were four ‘2’s from Kathy Doody, George Gardner, Rick Evans & Bob Pearce.
Div A (0-17)
1st George Gardner (8) 38pts
2nd Rick Evans (6) 35pts
3rd Bob Pearce (12) 34pts
Div B (18+)
1st Kathy Doody (19) 43pts
2nd John Lawton (21) 38pts
3rd Geoff Doody (20) 34pts
Friday, March 6, Greenwood - Stableford
Although this is an excellent course in good condition, Greenwood will do little to win the hearts of Outbackers whilst they seem unable to orchestrate a two-tee start. This is not the first time that after completing nine holes, the groups are met by a hoard of guys waiting to tee off, causing a long delay in the middle of a round of up to 45 minutes.
With ten players wrapped up in the MBMG matchplay against the Golf Club, only 29 remained to compete in two divisions on the A & B nines. Harvey Samuel took Div A with 37 points, just pipping Rosco for the usual reasons and Eric Curley made the frame again, despite his handicap cut earlier in the week. Morten Gauslaa won Div B, also with 37 points, ahead of a trio on 36 headed by Alan Bishop.
There were a bundle of ‘2’s coming from Dave Hewson, Jean Guy, Capt’ Bob, Rosco, Harvey Samuel, Morten Gauslaa & Arnie Stangnes.
Div A (0-15)
1st Harvey Samuel (15) 37pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (15) 37pts
3rd Eric Curley (15) 36pts
4th Mike Morris (8) 33pts
Div B (16+)
1st Morten Gauslaa (26) 37pts
2nd Alan Bishop (17) 36pts
3rd Peter Stonebridge (18) 36pts
4th Orowan Sodok (26) 36pts
That’s all for now, if you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at joey@outbackgolfbar .com.
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.

Bob Newell retains his Lewiinski’s crown

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Bob Newell (2nd right), the Lewiinski’s 2009 Open champion, holds the trophy surrounded by the other category winners in the 4-day tournament.

Lewiinski’s Open (Day1) - Sunday March 1, Green Valley
Today saw the beginning of the Lewiinski’s Open, to be played over four days at Green Valley with an additional stableford contest for those who did not wish to enter the open. After the cut, which comes into force after two days of play, non qualifiers could then play in the plate competition.
The course was in fine condition and after what turned out to be a quiet first day, leading the open were ‘Big’ Bob Patterson and Mussel’s Bonner, both tied on net 70. One shot adrift was ‘Mr. Opportunity’ himself and Peter Emslie. ‘The President’, ‘the Magician’ ‘the Donkey’ and ‘Big’ Ben O’Connor all returned a net 72. Jim Bracket, Kevin Hamilton and Zig Zag were one shot further back.
Mick Shrosbree won the additional stableford comp with a splendid 40 points, relegating Geoff Doody into second place with a very impressive 38 pts. Jack ‘Bilko’ Spencer filled the third place on 37 points. ‘Capt Fogg’ and Graham Holmes split a very handy 2’s pot.
Stableford Comp
1st Mick Shrosbree (16) 40pts
2nd Geoff Doody (20) 38pts
3rd Jack Spencer (7) 37pts
2’s: Jim Munns, Graham Holmes
Hidden Six: 1st Kevin Hamilton, 2nd Pierre Bietry
Lewiinski’s Open (Day 2) - March 2
By no means, was any competitor out of the comp, except for Jimmy Henshaw who unfortunately had a no return.
It was a much better performance today as ‘the President’ took control, carding a splendid net 66. Jimmy Day and John Warren were a shot back. ‘The Magician’ and Bob the guru of Green Valley were a shot further back. ‘The Donkey’, Roy Thornton, Pat Hanfin and Silvio Bizzotti all returned net 71’s.
The cut was made at net 150 and the leading scores were as follows: Peter Henshaw net 138 followed by Pierre Bietry net 141, Gavin Knox and Colin Davis net 142, and Bob Patterson and Jimmy Day net 143. Some ‘big names’ failed to make the cut.
A smaller group played a stableford comp today. Winning with a 34 point haul was Kaun Rungratree, with second place going to the ever smiling Irishman Colm Mullen on a count back over Mick Shrosbree. No 2’s were recorded so a rollover on Wednesday.
Stableford Comp
1st Kaun Rungratree 34pts
2nd Colm Mullen (15) 32pts
Lewiinski’s Open (Day 3) - March 4
A very hot and humid day, welcomed the Lewiinski’s gang for the third day of the Lewiinski’s Open, and start of the plate comp. A very tight and exiting day was won by the Co. Kerry man Ben O’Connor posting a super net 66. A shot back was the defending champ Bob Newell and Steve Mulberry, Pierre Bietry and Seamus Cotter all carded net 70’s.
Overall positions leading up to the final day were as follows: Pierre Bietry and Ben O’Connor with 211, Peter Henshaw and Bob Patterson with 214, Colin Davis and Steve Mulberry on 217, Bob Newell and Bob Lindburg on 218.
The plate competitors followed on after the open boys had teed off. Leading home the chasing pack was Co. Wicklow’s ‘Smoking’ Joe Tynan who amassed 41 blistering points. He was followed by the ever-present Jim Bell, with a cracking 38 point haul. Peter Lenoury fired an even par round and Silvio Bizzotti and Joe Sebastian were a shot back in joint fourth. So the scene was set for a great finish on Friday.
Lewiinski’s Open (Day 4) - March 6
The last day and all to play for and it could not have been closer.
Defending champion Bob Newell shot a super net 68 to win the day and retain his Lewiinski’s crown but only after a count back. Steve Mulberry carded a great net 69 for second on the day. They were followed by Bob Patterson with a net 72, Ben O’Connor posted a net 75 and Pierre Bietry recorded a net 76.
Winning the overall plate comp was Joe Sebastian, shooting a best of the day 40 points; this added to his first day total of 35 points made for a 75 point winning total. Joe Tynan and Peter Lenoury tied for second on 72 points each. The ladies winner with a two-day total of 68 points was Rung Ratree.
The Lewiinski’s Open 2009 overall champion was Bob Newell with a 4-day total of net 286, the runner up was Steve Mulberry on net 286, in third came Ben O’Connor, also with a net 286. The Low Gross winner was Bob Patterson with a 4-round total of 310
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.

Srithong bags an ‘Ace’ at Eastern Star

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

Hole in one star Srithong Tann (center) with Miss Nom,
Miss Nut, Miss Oam and Billie Sampson celebrate
at Faa’s birthday bash back at Siam Cats.

Monday, March 2, Crystal Bay – Stableford
We arrived here on a very hot and humid day and the A and B courses were yet again selected for our nine groups. With the majority of the group arriving 40 minutes ahead of the scheduled 10.00am tee off, the starter told us we could start straight away.
In the stableford today Bill Hewitt came in with 35 points in division 1 to take third place, while six points ahead was Jim Connelly in second after losing a remarkable 26/20 back nine count back to Peter Seward who took the top spot.
In division 2, Jimmy Johnson continued his handicap decline after winning with 37 points. Magne Gunnarson won his first ever prize with us after coming in with 36 points for second, and in third place was Rudi Schafer on 35 points after beating Les Hall on count back.
After nine holes here today the clouds built up and we had a short burst of rain for 10 minutes, but this did not interrupt any of the games.
Srithong Tann birdied the 4th on the B course to win the 2’s pot in division 1 pot and there were no winners in division 2, so all to play for at Bangpra on Wednesday.
Near pins went to (div 1.) Takeshi Hakozaki, Adi Mayer, Srithong Tann and Harry Vincenzi; and in (div 2.) to Tony Duthie, Miss Nom, Roger Ribbins and Bryan Rought.
Wednesday, March 4, Bangpra – Monthly Medal
Our first visit here for some considerable time and our first ever monthly medal. With some confusion regarding the start times and green fee costs, we have now cancelled our next scheduled visit here on March 25.
A very dry course today and this was reflected in the scores. In division 1, Jean Bruneau finished third with a net 78, Bill Hewitt took second with net 76 and the winner with a net 74 was Mam Morel.
Jimmy Johnson won division 2 with a net 72 (getting his own back after Monday), and Les Hall beat Peter Grant on a back nine count back of 36/38 for second place after they both finished with net 75’s.
The division 2 rollover in the 2’s pot was shared by Fred Duffy and Peter Grant after they both birdied the 8th hole. The tape measure had to come out for the nearest the pins as well as there was a two inch differential. Still winning every week, Karl Flood got the only ‘2’ in division 1, on the 8th as well, to win the pot outright.
Near pins went to (div 1.) Karl Flood, Mike Theedam and Harry Vincenzi; and (div 2.) to Fred Duffy, Tony Duthie and Les Hall.
Friday, March 6, Eastern Star – Stableford
With over 40 players out today we split the cards into three divisions with the splits coming at (5-16), (19-22) and (23 and up).
In division 1, five players competed for the first three places as they all came in with 34 points. Karl Flood won with a back nine of 23; in second was Mikael Andersson (21) and Srithong Tann took third place with a back nine of 18. Jean Bruneau (17) and Gisela (16) were the unlucky players to miss out.
Miss Nom took the division 2 win with a fine 39 points. Fred Duffy was second just 1 point adrift and Tom Breslin came third with 36 points.
Jouni Metsanen was the winner in division 3 after carding 34 points, and a revenge count back of 20/18 put Peter Grant into second place ahead of Jimmy Johnson in third.
In the 2’s today, Miss Nom birdied the 13th in division 2 and newcomer Mike Theddam birdied the same hole in division 1, but a sensational hole-in-one on the 17th by Srithong Tann, her first ever, scooped both purses in this competition. Commiserations go to Miss Nom and Mike, but congratulations from everybody to Srithong.
Near pins were won by (div 1.) Mikael Andersson, Gisela Jacobson, John McLoone and Harry Vincenzi; and (div 2.) Gunbjorg Gunnarson, Miss Nom and Miss Oam.
It was happy birthday to Faa back at the bar as she and Olaf provided a free buffet supplied yet again by Simple Simon’s to all the golfers and their partners. With live music until the early hours and the drinks flowing, we also celebrated Mam Morel’s and newly returned Andy Oz’s birthday. Many thanks once again to Faa and Olaf for the evening.

Roxy Hotel wins San Miguel Thursday Darts League

The Roxy Hotel were crowned champions at a prize presentation party held at The Rising Sun on Thursday, March 5. The new Thursday League started this week and has been increased to 16 teams. (Photo/Stefan Lord)