Pongsiri retains Pattaya Open tennis crown

Vimolrat Singnikorn
Defending champion Pongsiri Niroj was again too hot to handle at this year’s Pattaya Tennis Open, winning both the singles and doubles events for the second year in a row.

Pongsiri fires in a return against Den Janluk in the Mens final.
The Tennis Association of Pattaya held the 6th Pattaya Tennis Open over 4 days from March 14-17 to give the opportunity for young and old players to show off their skills with racket and ball.
Three more tennis courts were added this year, bringing the total to14 courts located at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort, the Fairtex Sports Club and the Jomtien Condotel.
One of the highlights of the event was the men’s single final in which number one seed Pongsiri battled it out with eleventh-seeded Den Janluk. Pongsiri cruised to victory, winning in straight sets (6-4, 6-1) to retain the trophy and collect the 20,000 baht cash prize. Not content with that, Pongsiri then paired up with Mohammad Mohazebnia to capture the men’s double title.
In women’s single final, top-seeded Parichart Charoensuk surprisingly lost to second-seeded Nattawadee Kotcha in straight sets (6-2, 7-5).

Nattwadee Kotcha was the winner of the Women’s Singles title.
Other matches were for youth under 10 years old and the winner for boys was Pawit Sornlaksub and for girls Naparat Sawangkaew. In the Under 12 years old category the winner for the boys was Kittinat Jittipornsan and for girls Apiramon Nakornkan. Parn Rangsibarirak was the boys winner in the Under 14 years field and Warisa Prachuabpansri was the girls champion. The Under 16 year old winner for the boys was Wattanapong Thanuwattanasin.
For the not-so-young in the mixed category of combined age of 80 years, the winners were Bongkot Porntisa and Sakchai Kowapitaktet; Combined age of 90 years winners were Charnchai Umkrai and Narong Yampanchai; Combined age of 100 years, the winners were Preedee Nuanpang and Manus Pattamuankun, and Combined age of 120 years, the winners were Prapart Chompoosri and Pichet Porntisa.
Rachapong Katiwanich, President of Tennis Association of Pattaya, said that this tennis tournament gave an opportunity for all players, young or old, Thai or foreign, and had brought together some 450 players to take part.

PILC Ladies tennis goes from strength to strength

The PILC Ladies tennis team held their 3rd doubles tournament on Feb 11. There were 16 ladies, making 8 doubles teams that played at the Royal Cliff tennis courts. Intl. Players Academy helped host the tournament while Wilson was the number one sponsor which provided balls shirts and hats.

The winners and runners-up from the recent PILC Ladies tennis doubles tournament.

Tournament Director CJ Colburn indicated that this tournament was different than most in that every team played 3 times instead of single elimination. This is a fun event that is played in a single morning and is open to all ladies to come and play. Most of these ladies play regularly on Monday and Wednesday mornings.
The teams from first to eighth place were as follows: 1st Min and Yuko; 2nd Olive and Tracy; 3rd Debbie and Narumi; 4th Leeann and Kyoko; 5th Doreen and Yukiko; 6th Nancy and Tip; 7th Daeng and Virginia; and 8th Mika and Aliyn.

World chess players making moves

PM Reporters
Some 200 of the world’s top professional chess players from 117 counties are positioning themselves to come to the “Thailand Open Chess Championship 2009” in Pattaya.
Officially titled the “Thailand Open Chess Championship 2009”, the 9th BCC Open will be held from April 1-6 at the Aisawan Resort & Spa in Wongamart Beach, just 2km from the city center.
Niran Wattanasartsathorn, chief advisor to the mayor, said that the city was honored to hold such an event that will increase cash flow into the city. “We should be a good host as usual in order to portray a great image of our city of tourism,” he said.
The title sponsor of the event is the Thailand Chess Association, and with a prize fund of 400,000 baht, more than double that of previous years, and a top prize of 90,000 baht, the tournament is sure to attract even more high-ranked players than before. Indeed, one of those already signed up to play is Grand Master Nigel Short from the UK who once took on Russian Gary Kasparov for the World Chess Championships in 1993.
This is an individual tournament, open to all players and there will be two groups of play: Open category for all players, and Challenger category for players rated below 2100 or unrated (ratings based on FIDE or Thai ELO ratings - other national ratings will be validated by the organizer). When registering, players must indicate in which group they wish to play.
FIDE (International Chess Federation) rules and regulations shall apply and the results will be sent for FIDE rating calculations.
Both groups will be played using the Swiss System, with 9 rounds for BCC Open, and 7 rounds for BCC Challenger. For the pairings, a Swiss Manager program will be used.
The matches shall be conducted according to the schedule, which will be made known to the respective players before the start of the tournament.
Each player will be accorded with a time control of 90 minutes plus 30 seconds per move. Five minutes before the games start, the Chief Arbiter shall make the announcement accordingly. If any player is not present within an hour after the game is started, he shall lose by default.
FIDE regulations apply for mobile phones, which must be switched off during playing times. Penalty is automatic loss of game. Officials and players are also requested to be smartly attired at all times while in the playing hall.
In BCC Open, the prizes are for 1-8 ranks and 6 best Thais. There will also be certificates for Best Lady and 3 Best Juniors. BCC Challenger has prizes for 1-6, and certificates for 3 Best Juniors. All cash prizes will be subject to the Revenue Department’s “Withholding Tax” of 5%.
To register for the event go to www.bangkokchess.com and fill in the online registration form. Entrance fees are 2,800 baht (1,500 baht for Thai and TCA members) for the BCC Open and 1,000 baht for the BCC Challenger event.

Pattaya United and Chonburi FC draw a blank in home derby

Ariyawat Nuamwasat
Last Sunday, the Thai Premier League threw two of the major teams of Chonburi province together when Pattaya United took on Chonburi FC at the Nongprue stadium.
Pattaya went into the match still searching for their first win of the season and sent out one of their strongest line ups, with Thana Chanabutr partnering Somchai Singhmanee up front in an exciting looking forward combination.

Pattaya United and Chonburi FC went head to head at the Nongprue stadium last Sunday.

The match drew some 3,000 Thai and foreign football fans to the stadium in Pattaya and they atmosphere was really buzzing by kick-off time.
In the first half, however, it was the visitors Chonburi FC who had the better of things, taking control of the midfield and dominating possession but they were restricted to taking long shots from outside the box, the best of which from Sunthornpit was well saved by Thaweekul in the Pattaya goal.
Pattaya’s only real chance of the half came when Chanabutr made a penetrating run through the Chonburi defence but his shot was easily dealt with by the Chonburi keeper Hathairattanakul. Half time came with the game remaining goalless.
The second half saw the introduction of Kone Mohamed for Pattaya in place of the disappointing Anderson Machado. The game remained tight, however, with both defences looking impenetrable. In the 71st minute Chonburi’s Maruyama Yoshiaki was given a red card after an ugly tackle but United were unable to take advantage of the extra player and the match fizzled out thereafter into a tame draw.
United manager Pansak Ketwatha said the game was not bad and he was pleased with the defensive side of things, having kept a strong Chonburi attack at bay for 90 minutes. He said the team is still working extremely hard in training and he hopes the first win will come in the next league game, away against TTM Samut Sakorn on April 5.
Chonburi FC manager Kitisak ‘Zigo’ Senamuang said he was satisfied with the overall performance of his team and happy to be going back home with a point from this tough fixture. Chonburi’s next match will be in Vietnam against Hanoi ACB in the AFC Cup.

Ping Pong anyone?

Sawittree Namwiwatsuk
A selection tournament of region 1 (Chonburi) will be held from April 4 to 6 for the Pattaya All-Thailand Table Tennis Semi Pro Tour Championships 2009. The event will be held at the Pattaya Indoor Stadium on Soi Chaiyapreuk with matches beginning at 9 a.m.
Pattaya City and the Table Tennis Association of Thailand are organizing the championship in search of players for the Thai national team. The tournament consists of nine categories: men open singles, women open singles, boys under 18, girls under 18, boys under 15, girls under 15, boys under 12, girls under 12 and men’s single for over 45. Total prize money for the event is in the region of 500,000 baht.

Girl boxer is youngest teacher

Patcharapol Panrak
Jeejarnoi, or more formally known as Angkana Sampaongern, at the tender age of seven could be the world’s youngest boxing champion and teacher. She is also a girl.
The reigning champion for boxers weighing less than 20kg, Jeejarnoi recently defeated Nong Neuy (age 8) in a Muay Thai contest held on March 4 at the Thepprasit Boxing Stadium.

Jeejarnoi is believed to be the world’s youngest boxing champion and coach.

Captain Suchart Premprasert from the Thai Boxing Association arranged the tournament that saw Jeejarnoi, a second grader at Baan Taotarn School, claim victory after three rounds and win a cash prize from Chaiyathep Boonlert, the Deputy Municipal Chief of Sattahip. Chaiyathep is a firm supporter of this popular child boxing teacher who is an expert in 15 Muay Thai boxing moves.
Captain Ampol Muenharn, President of Thai Boxing Association, said that it was very good to see the younger generation taking a great interest in Thai traditional martial arts.
“We are very proud to have the world’s youngest girl boxing teacher here with us in Sattahip,” he commented.

Sign up for the Mike Franklin Memorial Charity Golf Tournament

Named after Pattaya’s ‘Mr. Golf’, who so sadly passed away earlier this year, the inaugural Mike Franklin Memorial Charity Golf Tournament will take place this coming Wednesday, April 1, at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort and places are still available for those golfers wishing to participate in this one of a kind tournament.
The competition will be a four-ball team scramble and scoring will based on the “system 36” format which means that no handicaps are required and all golfers are welcome to take part. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. with 144 players split into 36 teams.
The cost to enter is 2,000 baht for individual players and 7,500 baht per four-person team. The entrance fee includes Green & Caddy fees, team trophies and technical awards, lucky draw prizes, pre-tournament snacks, and a fantastic buffet dinner later at the Pinnacle Grand Jomtien Resort & Spa with live music and entertainment.
In view of Mike’s previous charity work in Pattaya, the proceeds of this tournament will all go to worthy causes. Those set to benefit this year are the Rotary District 3340 R.I. Humanitarian projects, Jesters Care for Kids, The Camillian Aids Center – Cindy Burbridge project, Scholarships to Pattaya schools via the Diana Group Foundation, The Youth Leadership Development Foundation, and the Pattaya Young Ambassador Program.
The proceeds as they are committed and spent on the six beneficiary projects will be reported in the Pattaya Mail group of media and on Pattaya Mail Television.
To register for the tournament please complete the entry form in this weeks Pattaya mail and return it to the Pattaya Mail office, The Pinnacle Grand Jomtien Resort & Spa, or the Pattaya Sports Club office together with the correct remittance. Additional entry forms can also be collected at either of the above three venues.

A perfect day at Bangpakong

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, March 16, Bangpakong – Stableford
An eight o’clock departure in our forty-seater coach was spot on time yet again for our scheduled 10.00 a.m. tee off. Many thanks to Mrs. Mar and her staff for the service provided.
This was our first visit here for a few months and the condition of the course was very impressive, especially to the few who had never been here before. With a perfect blue sky in every direction and a very slight breeze, it was a perfect day for golf. This was reflected in the scores with 39 points winning both divisions.
Howard Stanley’s was top of division 1 for his first podium position in some considerable time; Kari Kuparinen came in second one point behind and Mam Morel finished third with 37 points.
In the second flight, Jack Hinchey won with a fine 39 points ahead of Roger Ribbins (38) in second and Miss Nom (35) finishing in third.
Playing her last game with us before her return to Berlin, and still playing off 8, Miss Siritong Tann birdied the par-three 16th to share the 2’s kitty with Kari Aarnio, who also recorded a two on the same hole. Well done to you both.
Near pins went to (Div.1) Jim Connelly, Dannie Larsen, Adi Mayer and Srithong Tann; and (Div.2) Eugene Maguire and Andy Oz.
Wednesday, March 18, Green Valley – Stableford
The clouds were building up in the distance as we headed towards the course this morning and after six holes of play the skies emptied and the leading groups took cover. The torrential rain lasted for more than an hour, so with our ruling, if it is impossible to play after 1 hour the competition is cancelled irrespective of whether anybody wants to wait longer or continue.
The last group out had only reached the second hole before everybody came back to the clubhouse, and with a few talks with the management we received our 18 hole rain-check vouchers for future games. Many thanks Green Valley.
This day also marked Fred Duffy’s last game before his return back to Scotland. Bon voyage Fred.
Friday, March 20, Eastern Star – Stableford
Only 30 players were out today and the forecast looked promising so three groups went back to Green Valley with their vouchers.
The winner of the top flight today with 38 points was Harry Riley; in second came Howard Stanley with 37, and Tom Sathrum took third just one point further back on 36.
An even par 36 points was enough to give Nick Hearn the second division win, Miss Nom came in second with 32, and an amazingly low 28 points gave Bryan Rought third place.
Harry Riley and Tom Sathrum both birdied the 6th hole and Srithong Tann (now staying for a further 10 days) also scored a ‘2’ on the 13th for a three-way share of the pot.
Near pins went to (Div.1) Jim Connelly, Harry Riley and Srithong Tann (2); and (Div.2) Nick Hearn (2) and Bryan Rought.
A collection was made at the presentation for Miss Noy, Jim C’s caddie (141), who was killed the evening before in a motorbike accident. Our condolences go out to her family and friends.

Dobbins shoots level par off the stick

Danny Greer holes in one for six

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 16, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
1st Rick Holmes 35pts
2nd Russell Exley 35pts
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki 34pts
4th Gerald Decio 33pts
5th Alan Griffiths 33pts
6th John Teague 33pts
Rolling grey clouds and rumbling skies kept a few of the less hardy competitors in their beds for a rare opportunity to play a singles event at arguably one of the toughest courses in the area, and one that the designers had ear-marked as for handicaps of 15 and below. But with the special rates for green fees on offer, there was still nearly enough for two divisions but not quite, and so six places in one division were on offer for the day.
In the event, none of the hopefuls could even match par, as the conditions of swirling rain and gusting winds conspired to keep the scores over that magic number. Rick Holmes and Russell Exley came closest, with Rick taking the top spot by virtue of a better count back of 20 to Russell’s 18.
Takeshi Hakozaki at last got a couple of member’s bounces after many attempts at playing the course where he has complimentary membership, to take third place ahead of Gerald Decio. Gerald finally got into the prizes on this trip with a better back nine of 15 as Alan Griffiths, with 14, and John Teague with 13, slumped a little as the crunch came over the closing holes.
There were no 2’s in the first division but Ole Stamnes rolled one in to take the second division which included a rollover.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcome back Kevin Taylor from the UK.
Wednesday, March 18, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Alan Griffiths 40pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer 37pts
3rd Yukio Kikuchi 37pts
4th Dave Spendley 36pts
5th Rick Holmes 35pts
6th Chris Knapp 35pts
Another day with the green fees at very attractive levels meant another good turn out although the weather still deterred many of the usual faces. This time out the weather was not quite as kind as the previous outing with most of the field having to take shelter against the downpours and unable to putt through pools of water on the greens and the constant threat of lightning. But in the end everyone managed to complete their rounds, albeit a little slower than normally.
Alan Griffiths had a lifetime best round to tie up first place with an excellent four under handicap score that was good enough by three ahead of Trevor Schirmer‘s and Yukio Kikuchi ’s one under efforts, with Trevor just getting the nod by a better inward half of 19 to Yukio’ s17.
Dave Spendley, having benefited greatly from the experience of playing a couple of rounds recently with a PGA teaching professional, at last got back on to the podium with a level par round against his handicap to take third place in front of Rick Holmes and Chris Knapp another shot back. Rick took the fifth placing with a count back of 20 after an opening 15 points, whilst Chris did it backwards with just the 15 on the back after a very promising 20 over the starting nine.
Bob Lamond and Alan Griffiths shared the 2’s pot in the first division whilst Kaneo Watanabe and Wilf Wellman shared the second division pool.
Back at The Haven Kaneo Watanabe, Yukio Kikuchi and Geoff Picken were welcomed back.
Friday, March 20, The Emerald - Stableford
1st Tony Barritt 38pts
2nd Yukio Kikuchi 38pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer 36pts
4th Paul Taylor 36pts
The lowest turnout of the week was due no doubt to the current cost of playing this course as it remains one of the most expensive in the area, at least of those south of Pattaya, and in the current economic climate players are voting with their feet.
Having said that, the course was in good condition with evidence of lots of work being undertaken aimed at both visual and playing aspects of the course and the scoring attested to the conditions as the CSS went down to 71 on the day.
Tony Barritt, who is making somewhat of a mini comeback recently, went out in level par off handicap and back in two under to secure the win on count back by two from Yukio Kikuchi, who could only manage 18 on the inward half.
Trevor Schirmer continued his recent form with a level par score to his handicap and also won out with a better count back of 19, with Paul Taylor being disappointed for the second time in the day as he could only glean 17 coming home.
There were no 2’s in the first division and Paul Taylor had one in the second division, but sweeping both of the pools was Danny Greer with a fantastic hole in one on the par three fifth hole that netted him six points as he received two shots on as the stroke index was 6. It also formed part of a very nice run of holes, as he had just slipped in a gross birdie on the previous par five for 4 points, and then had a bogey with two shots on the par four 6th for another 3 points making a total of 13 in three holes. But unfortunately the rest of the round did not quite match these feats of “Derring Do”, but the abiding memory will be Danny’s first ever hole-in-one which he celebrated in fine style back at the bar by blowing the horn several times.
Before the presentations The Doc welcomed back Peter Carroll.

Green Valley greens - truly green

PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, March 17, Green Valley - Stableford
Mulligans Lakeside held their St Patrick’s Day tournament at Green Valley with 20 players enjoying a day of sunshine, light breezes and a course in good condition, with firm greens.
With many technical prizes & novelty events, such as the “nearest to the keg”, the inaugural Mulligans Lakeside competition was hotly contested by all. However, there can only be one winner and today it was John Hicks (18) shooting 36 points. He was closely followed on 35 points by John Chapman (26) and third place went to Roger Kidd (9) on 34, just edging out his playing partner Frank on a count back.
With so many technical prizes it’s impossible to run through them all, however of the ones of note, Alex Meldrum picked up a Near Pin as his golfing game improves week to week, and his playing partner Tony Hayes notched the B flight Long Drive. The near keg was won by John Hicks, our overall winner, not a big beer drinker, John shouted his golfing pals some beers on Thursday after our trip to Crystal Bay. Cheers John.
Thursday, March 19, Crystal Bay - Stableford
We journeyed to Crystal Bay on Thursday to find the course in fine nick; the greens were receptive to the well hit shot, while maintaining a good pace for putting.
Cloudy skies kept the temperature at a playable level, so we cannot offer any excuses for why the winning score was only 34 points; David Edwards (15) edging Jeff Wylie (8) on a count back 19 to 15.
Near Pins were picked up by David Edwards, John Chapman, Iain Painter & our landlord Ray Ryan.
Next week we travel to Green Valley on March 31 for a 10.30 tee off, while Thursday April 2 sees us up the 331 to Pattana for an 11.30 kick off. Hope to see you there, for more details call Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088.
Mulligans Lakeside is a great venue for golfers of all levels, give it a go. Cheers & good golfing!

Kelly’s the hero for St Paddy’s Day

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Mike Gerrard
Tuesday, March 17, Phoenix - Stableford
With a few of our regulars missing today due to them being involved with much bigger (and mainly Irish) groups out celebrating St Patrick’s day tournaments, we still had a couple of Irishmen come along and it was one of them that stole the show.
Eddie Kelly, on holiday from the Emerald Isle managed to beat everybody else with a fine 39 points. Not only did he do it for St Paddy, but it was his birthday as well.
Sadly, because it was his birthday he could not come back for the presentation and buy everybody a drink (not as daft as people make out), so we had to drown our sorrows without him back at Toy’s Music Bar.
Never mind, it was not all bad news for the rest of us. After buying a drink out of the entrance fees and awarding the usual golf balls to everybody else, there was nothing left for him anyway. Neither was there for the second placed man, Stuart Gordon with a steady 37 points, which beat this scribe into third place with 36.
To further rub the salt into the wounds, Eddy will find himself off a lower handicap off 17 next week.
Just a note of the predictions made earlier this year: although we only had two groups out today, we had the course to ourselves. A worrying thought for the future. This also applied to all the poor caddies who sat outside the clubhouse from 5 a.m. in the morning only to be told to go home about 3 p.m. in the afternoon. That don’t feed their poor kids!

Wheeldon on top at Mountain Shadow

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, March 17, The Emerald (White tees) - Stableford
Our chum Mike Brooke happily remembered to turn up on Tuesday to win the day with an excellent 36 stableford points. Ian Wheeldon, Paco and David Clamp came in 2nd, 3rd and 4th with 35, 35 and 34 points respectively. Ian Wheeldon claimed a near pin bonus and the longest first putt on the 18 green with Graziano Amodeo bagging a couple of near pins bonuses and scribe the other.
Thursday, March 19,
Mountain Shadow - Stableford
A compact group made the trip to Mountain Shadow which we are still learning how to play. Ian Wheeldon continued with his run of good form returning an excellent 39 stableford points to take the day and earn him a one shot lower handicap for Friday. Unfortunately Ian had to plunge the majority of his day’s winnings into getting his motorcycle working again so that he could get home from the PJPB. Easy come, easy go.
Runner up was Ted Morris with 32 points plus two near pin bonuses, Aka O’Reilly and the scribe getting the other two. Mike Jackson sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green and the average score for the day was 28 points.
David Beltham has asked me to bring it to the attention of potential new participants with the group that Malcolm Smith the gaffer of P J Pool Bar entitles golfers to a half price menu meal after playing with the group on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Thank you for the sponsorship Mal.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

Jimmy rings the Bell

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, March 15, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A Flight
1st Kevin Taylor net 69
2nd Pat Regan net 70
3rd Ben O’Connor net 70
B Flight
1st John Hartigan net 67
2nd Peter Henshaw net 71
3rd Geoff Doody net 71
Near Pins: #2 Peter Henshaw, #9 Ian Grout, #12 Bob Paterson, #16 Mickael Andersson.
2’s: Nine
Baan Jing Jai hidden six: 1st Ben O’Connor, 2nd Peter Lenoury.

Bob Newell (left) presents the monthly medal award to John Hartigan.

John Hartigan, Co. Kerry’s favourite son swept B Flight and the field with an outstanding net 67 to carry off the Monthly Medal. Peter, the President and Geoff Doody, needed a count back to separate them after they all recorded net 71’s, Peter gaining the verdict by the slimmest of margins.
A Flight was a very tight affair; Kevin Taylor posting a net 69 to edge Pat Reagan and Ben O’Connor by a shot. Pat’s maths was a little better, securing him second spot over Big Ben. Ian “Giza Fag Grout”, Ben “The Admiral” Nelson and Seamus VC were one shot further adrift.
The Magician made up for his game with a brace of two’s “just like that.”
Monday, March 16, St Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Lenoury (9) 34pts
2nd Justin Fowlis (13) 33pts
B Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (15) 39pts
2nd Gabriel Engright (23) 38pts
The Lewiinski’s society played the St Andrews course and found it to be in top class condition, however, it was hard going in the senior flight, Peter Lenoury, the man of leisure, needing a mere 34 points to emerge the top dog. Justin Fowlis pushed Peter hard, coming up a stroke short for second place. Chairman Mao and the Donkey were lurking in the shadows a further shot back.
B Flight produced the top score of the day by Pierre the Magician who had a trick or two up his sleeve, as he garnered a very impressive 39 points. Gabriel Engright filled the flight, posting an excellent 38 for second.
No 2’s were recorded so it was a rollover to Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 17, Crystal Bay - St Patrick’s Day special
March 17, as every one knows, is St Patrick’s Day and is celebrated all over the world. Lewiinski’s being no different, decided to run a special comp to celebrate this special day with all our paddy friends. The format of the game was that there would only be one overall winner. Then there would be a blind pairs draw, well it is St Pat’s day.
Top score of the day was Paddy O’knok carding a magnificent 39 points. Winning the blind draw was Geoff “Top of the morning to yau” Kubas and Ireland’s very own Andrew Byrne with a grand total of 74 points. The Irish mafia hit pair of Peter Henshaw and Joe Tynan put together a fine 71 points for second.
Gavin and the Admiral split a very handy 2’s pot and back at the ranch St Pat’s day was celebrated in the usual manner.
Wednesday, March 18, Royal Lakeside - Stableford
1st Jim Bell (20) 49pts
2nd Colin Davis (14) 40pts
It’s been quite a while since the Lewiinski’s gang played Royal Lakeside, and it was a day the ever consistent Jim Bell will remember for a long time.
Jim, playing off his old handicap, posted an astonishing 49 points to completely slaughter the field. Amazingly his score was compiled on only seventeen holes as he failed to score on the sixteenth hole. This set a new society record beating the 48 points held by Neil Cameron. What a way to finish his holiday.
Jim was booked to fly home that night so he kindly donated his winnings to the Jing Jai children’s home. Colin “The Donkey” Davis plodded on to take runner up with a more than useful 40 points and Mark Wood was two shots further back in third.
Friday, March 20, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Takeshi Hakozaki (12) 37pts
2nd Ben Nelson (14) 36pts
3rd Peter Hynard (13) 35pts
B Flight
1st Alec Hoare (18) 36pts
2nd Brian Cooper (22) 29pts
3rd Pierre Bietry (15) 29pts
There is no better way for the society to finish the week than with a trip to the very popular Mountain Shadow. The course, as always, was a tough test of golf.
Takeshi Hakozaki, making a rare appearance with the Lewiinski’s gang, made it a winning return by posting a very impressive 37 points, the only competitor to break par on the day. Ben “The Admiral” Nelson was just a shot adrift to claim second place and this left Peter Hynard and Pat Regan tied on 35 points, the scales tipping in Peters favor.
Co Dublin’s Alec Hoare carded an even par 36 points to take top spot in the junior flight while Brian “Minnie” Cooper needed only 29 and a count back verdict to claim second place over Pierre “The Magician” Bietry.
Brian Cooper, Pierre Bietry, Gordon Kerr, Seamus Cotter and Peter Hynard 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.

MBMG Matchplay Golf League

Friday, March 6,The Emerald - Richman Poorman 3½ v German-Swiss-
Golf Club 6½
Just another day in paradise, especially for the German-Swiss-Golf Club as they beat the Richman Poorman team by a score of 6½ to 3½ at Emerald. The result looks like an easy win for the German-Swiss boys, but it wasn’t. Most of matches were really close, as can be seen from the results, with the last few holes keeping the overall result in the balance right to the end. So it was also a little bit luck for the winning team as well as some good teamwork. Compliments also go to the losing team for their great sportsmanship.
After the match the teams met at Richman Poorman restaurant and bar at Jomtien beach for the great barbecue offered by Ed and his staff. After the meal both teams sat together, had a few drinks and discussed the match. All agreed it was a beautiful day and both teams are looking forward to the rematch.
Individual Scores (Richman Poorman first): Danny Larsen lost 3 & 2 v Marco Andrighetto; Mel Robey won 1 up v Hans Pickartz; Larry Immenthal lost 2 & 1 v Zion Asaban; Bill Bortha lost 1 down v Hans Peter Hinterberger; Neville Hammond won 1 up v Mo Sadiq, Alan Duckett lost 7 & 6 v Ralf Neumann; Niall Madden won 2 & 1 v Uwe Wegner; Kevin Sullivan lost 1 down v Thomas Rechsteiner; Jerry Langer lost 1 down v Werner Reinhardt; Mike Frizell halved with v Helmut Wolf.
Friday, March 13, Phoenix Lakes & Ocean - Angkana House 4 v Rich Man Poor Man 4
It was just eight versus eight for the first ever meeting of these two teams as the end of season exodus took its toll on player availability for this rain interrupted match at Phoenix.
And it was Ed and his boys from RMPM who came ‘flying out the traps’ to race into an early two point lead due to an excellent performance by 7 handicapper Larry Immenthan who inflicted a rare 4/3 defeat on Marty Allred. There was an equally good performance from Larry’s teammate Alan Dockett who claimed a fine 2/1 victory over Stuart Gordon.
Tony Dauth redressed the balance for Angkana somewhat with a 6/4 win over Kevin Sullivan whilst it was certainly Friday 13th for the unfortunate Bill Bortha as a short but sharp bee attack whilst taking a drop from a staked tree certainly couldn’t have helped his cause. He went down 6/5 to the mercurial Ken McCarthy.
With the match finely balanced at 2-2 it was a late comeback by Alan Bissell to win the last two holes that sealed Graham Hiskett’s fate thus swinging the match back in RMPM’s favour and it has to be said that at that stage ‘the fat lady’ would certainly have been gargling if not quite singing for Angkana had Bob ‘the raz’ Rasmussen not holed his 25 yard chip shot on the last hole to salvage a half with Jerry Langer.
A long wait then ensued for the sweaty palmed captains as the final two matches battled it out for supremacy, but a fine comeback from 4 down by Peter ‘bomber’ Harris to scramble a half with Ed Behr and a 2/1 victory for ‘Big Aussie’ Trevor Loersch over Danny Larsen in a hard fought match, ensured the perfect result of an honourable half.
With the spoils shared and some new acquaintances made it was once again back to Angkana for a beer or two and everyone looking forward to the return fixture later in the year.
Individual Scores (Angkana first): Marty Allred (1) lost 4/3 v Larry Immenthan (7); Tony Dauth (3) won 6/4 v Kevin Sullivan (11); Stuart Gordon (10) lost 2/1 v Alan Duckett (18); Trevor Loersch (10) won 2/1 v Danny Larsen (14); Ken McCarthy (12) won 6/5 v Bill Bortha (18); Bob Rasmussen (13) halved with Jerry Langer (20); Graham Hiskett (15) lost 1 down v Alan Bissel (19); Peter Harris (17) halved with Ed Behr (23)

Takeshi shoots the lights out at Phoenix

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, March 16, Bangpra – Stableford
The Bangpra Golf Club was the host to a stableford competition in two flights with the cut at handicap 18. This was the first time we had visited here since October and the course on the day was in good condition but a little dry once you got off the fairways.
Brian Gabe won the A Flight on count back over Larry Simpson in second, both with 36 points. In third was Doug Maiko with 35 points.

Dave Richardson (left) presents the Monthly Mug to Takeshi Hakozaki.

In the B Flight the winner was Jan Lovgren on a count back over Graham Buckingham, both with 35 points. Wayne Koch came in third place with 33 points.
Near Pins: Dave Neal, Dave Richardson, Johan Reynisson and Graham Buckingham
Thursday, March 19, Phoenix - Monthly Mug
The test for the day was to be the Lake and Ocean nines, and it was a much reduced number that set off to have a fine day at this excellent course. The reason being that on the next day it was to be ‘The Charity Classic’ on the same course but on the Mountain and Lake nines.
So the reduced field set off with a much better chance to win the mug with fewer players to compete against. However, it was to be found that reduced numbers did not mean a reduction in quality, as the scores were quite astounding.
Usually of late a few shots under handicap would mean a chance to win, but not on this day as many shot the lights out. I played with Henry O’Brien who shot a great net 67, and there was great optimism in our group that he had a real chance. On reflection it was a dog’s chance. Hard luck Henry and better luck next time. Henry falls into the same bracket as I in that he nearly won once but forgot to sign his card in the excitement. Having done it in really big tournaments I can sympathise.
There was only one flight and the winner was Jan Lovgren with a fine net 66 on count back over Per Anders Karlsen in second. In third was Henry O’Brien with net 67 with the scribe in fourth on count back over Walter Bachli, both on net 71.
So to the winner of The Mug and with a fine net 66, beating Jan and Per on count back, the champion for this month was Takeshi Hakozaki. Well done Takeshi. T.T.F.N.
Note: Just a reminder that The Ray Rogers Memorial Scramble will be held on Thursday, May 7 at Plutaluang and as usual the party will be held back at Ray’s House.

Jackie scores one for the ladies

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, March 16, Eastern Star - Stableford
Eastern Star is normally a tough nut to crack and good scores are never easy to come by, but today proved to be something of an exception.

Stan Watkins celebrates his third place at the Navy.

Playing stableford it was lady golfer Jackie McPherson who stole the show, winning with 39 points with old timer Reg Smart coming in second just a point behind. Tony Robbins claimed third place with a steady 36 and his mate John Hughes took fourth place a point further back.
1st Jackie McPherson (19) 39pts
2nd Reg Smart (24) 38pts
3rd Tony Robbins (14) 36pts
4th John Hughes (16) 35pts
Near Pins: William Macey, Reg Smart, Tony Robbins and Gordon Melia.
Wednesday, March 18, The Emerald - Medal
With the weather looking a bit overcast there were a few golfers who went back to bed and they weren’t bad judges as the start was delayed by rain and a downpour later in the round played havoc with the scores.
With not so many playing there was only one flight and it couldn’t have been any closer with only two shots separating the first six golfers. Three players finished with net 77 and it was Alan Sullivan who beat Gerry Cooney and Geoff Hart on a count back to take fourth place.
Another count back decided third place where Jackie McPherson kept up her good form by edging out Tom McDowell to take the runner up spot, but it was Dave Keats who took the honours claiming it was his past experience of playing football in any weather that enabled him to overcome the conditions, winning by one shot with a net 75.
1st Dave Keats (26) net 75
2nd Jackie McPherson (19) net 76
3rd Tom McDowell (22) net 76
4th Alan Sullivan (12) net 77
Near Pins: Gordon Melia (2), Colin Stokes and Tom McDowell.
Friday, March 20, Plutaluang - Stableford
Playing stableford at the Thai Royal Navy course for a change, the Bunker Boy’s found themselves on the South and East courses and there was a rumour that the East course had been closed for maintenance! Well, the maintenance didn’t work because it was in a terrible state, nonetheless Mashi and Tom Wilson weren’t complaining as they both racked up 40 points; Mashi winning on a count back to win the A Flight. John Thornber took third place five points behind them.
Jack Robertson walked away with the B Flight, finishing five points ahead of John Lee, and Stan Watkins got in the money sneaking into third place a point behind John.
A Flight
1st Mashi Kaneta (11) 40pts
2nd Tom Wilson (10) 40pts
3rd John Thornber (19) 35pts
B Flight
1st Jack Robertson (22) 37pts
2nd John Lee (22) 32pts
3rd Stan Watkins (26) 31pts
Near Pins: Mashi Kaneta, PJ Redmond and Charlie Chance (2).

Pattaya Sports Club pulls off another great charity classic

PSC Charity Classic 2009 at Phoenix G.C.

The 2009 Charity Classic champions: Alan Duffus,
Aaron New, Chris Kerr and Kevin Markington.

The runners up: Colin Greig, Gerry Cooney,
Glen Cunningham and Gordon Melia.

The third placed team of Larry Simpson, Mike Rushant, Phil Battah
and Dan Whelan with the PSC Golf Chairman Perry McNeely (center).

The fourth placed team of Tony Duthie, Ron Bridge,
Scott Dobbins and Paul Cavendish.

Team and colourful caddies all set to go.

This four-ball looks resplendent in their Charity Classic 2009 golf shirts.

The Scribe’s quartet ready to tee it up.

Derek Brook
The journey to this year’s Charity Classic was not always smooth, and it was not until the last few months that a decision was made to go ahead at somewhere near full speed.
It was felt following last year’s tournament that with the rise of other charity events in the area and the strain placed on our ever helpful sponsors (including the world financial situation), that another approach should be taken.  So negotiations took place over a period of months to combine with another charity day out, before finally the decision was taken to bite the bullet and go for it ourselves.
It has to be said that through all this period the Golf Chairman was convinced we could, and should, go for the day ourselves, while ‘cooler heads’ called for a joint approach.  With the die cast it was full ahead and as we did not start until a couple of months ago it is only right before we get onto the day that some thanks should be said.
First to Perry the Golf Chairman for his courage to go it alone in this financial climate; to Bernie who went out and got many ‘hole prizes’; to Max for his hours of whole hearted support; to Mike Gerrard for providing as a sane voice amongst the chaos; to Tony for his expertise and also to all the other supporters who went out at the last moment and did their best.
We next go to our ‘Major’ sponsors, all of whom dug deep in these tough times.  So to Joe & Oiy St Laurent, Seadrill, Baltex Industries Corporation Ltd, Sinto Trading Co Ltd, Bauer, Shenanigan and Jameson’s.  There will be more names below on the hole prizes but to all our sponsors may I say on behalf of PSC, Thank You!
Early in the year it was decided to go ahead and the ‘A Team’ got busy.  First a course was booked and the decision was Phoenix, and then a format was decided on, and was to be the best three stableford scores out of the four-man team.  Then a full court press was put on to sign up a full house with a hoped for maximum of 144 players.  On the day we had that with I believe a couple of extra four-balls.
On the Wednesday and Thursday before the competition, the Golf Chairman’s room was a hive of activity, with Perry, Max, Mike and Tony feverishly getting pins ready, working out plans and hoping everything was covered.  After all, one mistake and they would never hear the last of it.
So the ‘big day’ dawned and all the major organisers were down there early to ensure all went well.  Pins and special instructions were taken out to every hole and the Charity Classic 2009 shirts were readied for distribution.  Let chaos reign.
Soon, with a ‘Shotgun Start’ at 1200hrs, the queue formed and as is usual oddities occurred, but generally all went well and soon all the players were on their way to their start hole, not forgetting each hole had a ‘special’ prize that will be detailed below.
We started on L9, and it is fair to say here that we played the Lake and Mountain Nines, and also fair to say that the travel around took the best part of 6 hours, or maybe a shade under with each hole having a specific prize sponsored by some generous person.  While I was going to do it later I think that as we are going around the course it may be best to give the prize on each hole and the sponsor and the winner.  Why Not?
Lakes Course (Technical awards)
Hole 1, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by The Y.W.C.A.), winner Phil Battah; Hole 2, Near Pin (prize 500 baht voucher sponsored by PSC Golf), winners Indira Gorannson, Tom Breslin, Gary Sanders, John O’Leary, Kevin Dunne, Matt Sale; Hole 3, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by Shenanigans), winner Hans Collett; Hole 4, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by Jameson’s), winner John McHugh; Hole 5, Near Pin 3rd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by The Markland Roof), winner Paul Smith; Hole 6, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by The Jesters), winner Tom Thompson; Hole 7, Near Pin Tee shot (prize 500 baht voucher) winners Larry Simpson, Charles Scott, Brian Neil, Richard Baldwin, Marty Allred; Hole 8, Longest 1st Putt (prize 500 baht voucher) winner Mike Clarke; Hole 9, Longest Drive (prize  500 baht voucher) winners Perry McNeely, Rick Bevington, John Exham, Tom Thompson, A  Kevin Mackintosh.
Mountain Course (Technical Awards)
Hole 1, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by Tequila Reef) winner Kevin Mackintosh; Hole 2, Near Pin 3rd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by Diana Group) winner Martin Todd; Hole 3, Nearest Line (prize colour TV sponsored by The Pattaya Ladies Group) winner Don Vidgeon; Hole 4, Near Pin Tee shot (prize a 500 baht voucher) winners Gerry Cooney, Mike Clarke, Graham Hiskett, John Pegrum, Des Griffith; Hole 5, Near Keg (prize keg of beer sponsored by the Beaver Bar) winner Hugh Byrne; Hole 6, Near Pin 2nd shot (prize a golf bag sponsored by PSC Golf) winner Brian Orr; Hole 7, Near Pin 3rd shot (prize colour TV sponsored by MLG Insurance) winner Benny O’Connor; Hole 8, Near Pin Tee shot (prize a 500 baht voucher sponsored by PSC Golf) winners Perry McNeely, Mike Clarke, Frank Pilkington, Colin  Greig, Ron Bridges; Hole 9, Long 1st Putt (prize a 500 baht voucher sponsored by MLG Insurance) winner Mike Jackson.
Round over of we went to the showers but not before handing in our score cards.  At the table Max and Mike struggled with the mass of facts thrown at them however, as usual, they stuck at it until they produced a mass of results and were able to get them back to Shenanigans.
This is not the best of times to try driving around Pattaya and it took some time to get back to Shenanigans on 2nd Road, however we finally got there to find the party in full flow.  This place is big enough to swallow the estimated 180 persons who went back, when you include family and friends, so the place bounced.
The food was excellent so it went down well, but all good things must come to an end so it was soon time for our Emcee, Mike Gerrard, to do the first part of the lucky draw.  Then it was onto the introduction by the Golf Chairman and the results.
In fourth place was the team of Tony Duthie, Ron Bridge, Scott Dobbins and Paul Cavendish with a score of 119 points.  In third was the team of Larry Simpson, Mike Rushant, Phil Battah and Dan Whelan with a score of 121 points.  Second came the team of Colin Greig, Gerry Cooney, Glen Cunningham and Gordon Melia with a score of 122 points.
And so to the winners and with a fine score of 123 points the champion team was the foursome of Alan Duffus, Aaron New, Chris Kerr and Kevin Markington.
Thus a fine day came to an end, however, many tarried long to enjoy the ambience of this fine establishment and to relax after a memorable day.  So from me and all the organizers it’s T.T.F.N.

Beginner’s Luck for Froggy

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society visited Green Valley on Tuesday, March 17, to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style with a stableford event over the popular course.
The only Irish blood in the field belonged to Pat Murphy and he dutifully led the first group off the tee on time. The large field was divided into two flights at eighteen and under and with the course in good condition, with the tees at their weekend shortest, scores were destined to be good.
In the top flight Robert Lamond fired the day’s best gross of 78 and took third place with his 34 points. Alan Maxwell chose his final round this trip to record his best score of 35 points for second but was frustrated right at the end in his vain quest to beat par when he three-putted the final three holes. The flight winner was Austrian Peter Ditz, so consistent on this course, and his 36 points represented a good return.
In the second flight Evan Millar again found the frame with 34 points, two behind Yvonne Earley for whom her level par thirty-six points marked her best round this trip. The best points total of the day was posted by newbie Steve Froggatt who amassed 40 points off his initial IPGC handicap and he willingly submitted himself to the probationary review policy the group has recently introduced.
Robert Lamond scored the only birdie ‘2’ of the day, in the top flight, leaving a rollover for the second division at Emerald the next time out.
Alan Maxwell took the Booby Bevy for his putting skills on the final three holes but it could also have gone to Rod Stevens who eagled the par five eleventh and missed out on the 2’s prize an albatross would have brought!
On St. Patrick’s Day at Green Valley it was not just Irish eyes which were smiling.
Jones back on song at Emerald
The Pattaya Golf Society returned to the Emerald course at Ban Chang on Thursday, March 19, to play a stableford event in two flights, with a separate ladies’ flight also featuring for the second week in three. The gentlemen were divided at eighteen and under and the course was in reasonable condition but underfoot it was very hard and dusty; the Greens were fine and they held some refreshing pace.
In the top flight Mike Earley and Erik Anttonen shared third place with 33 points each, one behind Rick Schramm, drawing the curtains on his current trip with a fighting 34 points. The flight winner was Yutaka Nakayama who played to his ten handicap with an impressive 36 points in his first IPGC competition.
In the second flight Tim Lazecki managed third place with 31 points, trailing fellow Canadian Rod Stevens (33) who began like a train until becoming derailed after six holes. Len Jones drew the short straw and found himself paired with three Thai ladies and immediately found the benefit of his choice. Suffering no distractions on the tee and slowly becoming absorbed by the slow deliberate feminine swing, his game found a momentum unmatched recently and he finished with a flight winning 36 points.
Of the ladies the best score was recorded by Rungrudee Deane, her 34 points just shading the efforts of Yvonne Earley.
Tom McDowell took the top flight 2’s pot for his effort on the fifteenth whilst the second flight was destined to be rolled over yet again.
The Booby Bevy went to John Mason after a locker-room cosmetic cock-up which saw him washing his hair twice. The Emerald had thrown up some pleasant surprises and for the returning old friends it made the warm PGS welcome most appropriate.
If it’s Saturday it must be Cunningham
The Pattaya Golf Society left a bustling Pattaya on Saturday, March 21 for a peaceful day’s golf at Green Valley. This time the single flight was treated to a stableford competition. The course is in good condition currently and it will always remain a popular IPGC venue as, indeed, the PGS followed another IPGC group off the first tee.
Local member Harry Riley usually impresses on the course and this day was no exception as he ended with 34 points for third place. Lady golfer Yvonne Earley ended the week as she had begun with a good round on this, her final performance of this annual visit, with 35 points and second place. The winner was John Cunningham and what form he is in at present. One-under par gross for the front nine gave him 23 points and only a stressful final two holes ruined what would have been one of the rounds of the year. As it was his total of forty points was more than enough to blow the rest of the field away on a still and humid day.
There were no birdie 2’s and the pot remained for another week but the Booby Bevy went to Aussie Barry Dunn after his mediocre 24 points marked his first competition round in Pattaya.
Back in Soi Buakhao the group were left wondering what next weekend would have in store after John Cunningham’s fine string of Saturday results at Green Valley.

St. Patrick’s Scramble a great success

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
As all Irishmen will tell you, the seventeenth of March is a very important day on the calendar. It is of course St. Patrick’s Day. Well, as the TRGG is run by an Irishman, it was essential that we put on something different for the boys and girls. So instead of our usual stableford format we had a four-ball scramble at Green Valley and what a ball we had.

Saturday winners: Mick Flynn, John Merritt, Larry Simpson and Brendan Moore.

Some twelve teams took part in what was essentially a very well organised event. The quality of play was something to behold with everyone really out there to win. But there can only be one winner, and that was the team of Fergus Brennan, Eddie Townsend, Nigel Jones and Ray Allison. Please see further down this report for all the scores.
This week my more serious commentary is the subject of scorecards. How many golfers sign there score cards without really checking them to make sure no errors have been made? Well one player this week will never forget to next time check his card is filled in correctly before signing it. An error occurred and it cost him a place. I find it is not prudent to name people when things like this occur. They are hurt enough. But all players should be on their guard as it could so easily be you.
Monday, March 16, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
1st Brendan Moore (13) 37pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (10) 33pts
3rd Ito Akitoshi (9) 32pts
Mountain Shadow was the venue on Monday and the turnout was small as everyone was apparently holding back and going out the next day to the St. Patrick’s event. However, this did not prevent some quality play from taking place.
That man Brendan Moore was in there again (his name keeps cropping with regularity these days), winning with thirty-seven points and four clear of second placed Fergus Brennan, whose knee seems to be getting better. Third place went to Ito Akitoshi with thirty-two.
There were no 2’s so a ring of the bell back at the Travellers Rest, as is customary these days.
Tuesday, March 17, Green Valley - Four Ball Scramble
1st Ray Allison, Eddie Townsend, Nigel Jones, Fergus Brennan, net 58.2
2nd Danny Whellan, Ted Senior, Brendan Moore, Alan Evans, net 60.2
3rd Mick Flynn, Bob Heath, Jim Slatery, Gerry Decio, net 60.3
Tuesday was the big St. Patrick’s Day four-ball event at Green Valley. And big it was with anyone who is anyone at the TRGG taking part. The quality of play was something to see with everyone seeming to be on there best game.
But one winner is all there can be and that was the strong team of Fergus Brennan, Eddie Towsend, Nigel Jones and Ray Allison with a net 58.2. In second place were Danny Wheelan, Ted Senior, Brendan Moore, (where have I seen that name before) and Alan Evans with net 60.2 and coming in third was the quartet of Micky Flynn, Bob Heath, Jim Slatery and Gerry Decio with net 60.3.
The last team on the day were presented with TRGG shirts as a memento (I wont shame them in print). There were also lots of 2’s, too many of them to mention.
The golf was followed by a great party atmosphere back at the Rest which carried on late into the evening. A thank you must go out to the Travellers Rest for an excellent Irish stew that was made available to all the players and guests.
Thursday, March 19, Phoenix (Ocean & Mountain) - Stableford
1st Larry Simpson (10) 39pts
2nd Ray Allison (11) 38pts
3rd Bill McGarvie (11) 36pts
4th Phil Battah (16) 35pts
5th Fergus Brennan (10) 34pts
As always, this great course was in excellent condition and we had yet another very big turnout. But just one big division and places down to fifth. What can you say about this course that has not already been said? It lends itself to some great golf and that is what we got.
It was a very tight scoring event with only five points covering the top five places. Larry Simpson came out on top of the pile with 39 points ahead of Ray Allison in second, just the one point back, with Bill McGarvie, Phil Battah and Fergus Brennan occupying third, fourth and fifth places respectively.
There were three 2’s from Nigel Jones, Bill McGarvie and Ray Allison.
Saturday, March 21, Green Valley - Stableford
1st John Merritt (14) 36pts
2nd Mick Flynn (20) 35pts
3rd Larry Simpson (9) 35pts
4th Brendan Moore (12) 34pts
5th Derek Lucas (17) 34pts
Saturday was another of our weekend visits to Green Valley. The cost to play there cannot be beaten and we have the best price around for weekend golf.
However, we had a smaller turnout than usual this week mainly due to a lot of our regulars taking part in the PSC charity event the previous day, so just the one division and places down to fourth.
John Merritt is back in town and has not lost any of his skill on the course, taking first place with thirty-six points. Another man who has been slowly improving of late, Mick Flynn, was second after beating Larry Simpson on the count back, both with thirty-five. In fourth place was Brendan Moore again, winning on count back over Derek Lucas after both finished on thirty-four.
There were no 2’s but Greg Mason must have stood in disbelief when he saw his only birdie chance go into the cup and promptly bounce back out. Gutted is probably more accurate.

Kevin Mitch returns to capture top honours

PSC golf from the Beaver Bar & Grill

Friday, March 20 dawned brightly with little wind to help keep the temperature bearable for all the golfers joining the Beaver Bar and Grill’s weekly excursion onto the green fields of the Emerald Golf Club.
As the day progressed so did the temperature, causing all to hasten to the Beaver Bar post-golf to enjoy the cool air conditioning and some even colder liquid refreshments.
As the scores were tallied, it was found that Kevin Mitch had been even hotter with his clubs than the outside temperature and scored a sizzling 44 points to take first place, followed by another hot golfer named Dave Campbell with 41 points. Third place was taken by Geoff Stubbs with 34 points and followed by Dennis Willett winning on count back over Deane Mundy, both on 33 points.

Moodie mops up in Birthday Cup

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, March 16, Burapha - Stableford
It would be true to say that without the 36 Outbackers that played the Augusta & Belfry nines, Burapha would have been extremely quiet as the number of golfers out there took a significant downturn. Coincidentally, today the management released their ‘low season’ rate to the Outback, which commences from Monday, March 23.

Birthday Boy Nigel (left centre) with three regular Outbackers, John Stafford, Norm Martin & Paul Quodomine.

The cream rose to the top in Div A as Briany Christie hit a gross 71, scoring a fantastic 39 points off his two handicap. Tony Dauth would have pressed him hard if he had not double bogeyed the last to finish with a gross 74 and 37 points to take second. Steve Mann was there again, far too comfortable on his handicap of twelve but not quite doing enough for the handicapper to get him. However, after a short discussion, Capt’ Bob & General Jack decided to cut him to eleven on ‘general play’.
Rosco headed the lower scoring Div B, with 35 points from lone Brit., Bob Lindborg (34) with two more Aussie boys taking third and fourth; Ken Holman (33) and regular Outbacker, Bruce Milner, also with 33. John Sacasmo had the best score of the day with 40 points to win Div C, and has been cut to 19.
There were four ‘2’s from Tony Gliddon, Dave Hewson (sadly going back to the UK) and Toni Dauth had two.
Div A (0-12)
1st Briany Christie (2) 39pts
2nd Toni Dauth (3) 37pts
3rd Steve Mann (12) 37pts
4th Bob Philp (8) 36pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) 35pts
2nd Bob Lindborg (16) 34pts
3rd Ken Holman (17) 33pts
4th Bruce Milner (15) 33pts
Div C (18+)
1st John Sarcasmo (20) 40pts
2nd Vic Barton (19) 36pts
3rd Campbell Potts (19) 34pts
4th Paul Quinn (18) 33pts
Tuesday, March 17, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
In celebration of Nigel Cannon’s 70th (and some) birthday, 48 Outbackers played in a rainbow competition at Pattaya Country Club in another Outbacker Birthday Cup, and Nigel’s second. Last year’s winner, George Gardner, was here to defend his title as were many of Nigel’s regular playing partners and friends.
A local storm interrupted the round for many as only the leading groups had finished when it struck, however, after a couple of breaks for the lightning and rain, most were able to finish.
Wily old Geoff Moodie won the event, just getting the better of Gary Saunders, both with 39 points. Geoff would have been eligible to win the ‘over 65’ trophy but he went one better to take the overall, leaving Jim Wooler the winner of the ‘over 65’s’; Jim also winning his division with 37 points. Steve Mann continued his run of form and even though he has been cut one shot, he still managed an excellent 38 points to take the top spot in Div A from five guys, all with 36.
Back at the Outback, Nigel was joined by his good lady, Bee, and many more friends, golfers and non-golfers alike, where he sponsored the usual complimentary food associated with an Outbacker Birthday Cup event and he chose to award the prizes after a short welcoming address.
He also sponsored the four near pins won by: Colin Rees, Arthur Bailey and George Gardner had two.
There were seven ‘2’s from Arne Stangnes, Am North, Gary Saunders, John Lawton, Steve Mann and Michael Waltschek had two.
Overall
1st Geoff Moodie (26) 39pts
2nd Gary Saunders (22) 39pts
Div A (0-18)
1st Steve Mann (11) 38pts
2nd Michael Waltschek (8) 36pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (15) 36pts
Div B (19-22)
1st Jim Wooler (22) 37pts
2nd Geoff Doody (21) 36pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 35pts
Div C (23+)
1st Carl Blackburn (24) 37pts
2nd Herb Schwieterman (23) 36pts
3rd Glen Riding (28) 34pts
Wednesday, March 18, The Emerald - Stableford
Heavy rain and thunderstorms disrupted the golf on many courses today, and here at the Emerald was no exception. Of the 23 Outbackers that were on the start sheet, seven of them failed to complete the round. Those that did, did not exactly set the course on fire, proving somewhat difficult in the wet conditions; the best score returned being 33 in both divisions. Bruce McAdam won Div A from three on 30, headed by Anton Rowbottom and Jeff Treloar took Div B with the day’s organiser, Chad, somehow scrambling into third with only 27.
There was a jackpot ‘2’ today, scooped by Stuart McKenzie
Div A (0-19)
1st Bruce McAdam (19) 33pts
2nd Anton Rowbottom (14) 30pts
3rd Bruce Milner (15) 30pts
Div B (20+)
1st Geoff Treloar (25) 33pts
2nd Bob Debnam (24) 30pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 27pts
Thursday, March 19, Green Valley - Stableford
Some impressive scoring in both divisions from the 22 Outbackers at Green Valley today with three tied on 38 in Div A and the 37 points scored by Pat Regan, just wasn’t enough to trouble the referee. Course specialist, Sugar Ray, got the nod over the ‘in form’, Rick Evans and Steve Ready.
In Div B, John Cogan & Paul Quodomine went one point better, both scoring 39 points; John edging out Paul through the usual count back methods but it surely won’t be long now before John sees his handicap coming down, he’s far too comfortable off 20!
Barry Chadbourn is there again playing a phenomenal amount of golf and going up and down the monthly ladder like a Yo Yo. His 37 points earned him third place in Div B as well as 2 ladder points moving him all the way back up to ninth. Sugar Ray also made a big move into joint second, having played only four times this month.
There were two ‘2’s from Barry Lewis & Jum, both on same hole, the 16th.
Div A (0-19)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (19) 38pts
2nd Rick Evans (5) 38pts
3rd Steve Ready (19) 38pts
Div B (20+)
1st John Cogan (20) 39pts
2nd Paul Quodomine (28) 39pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 37pts
Friday, March 20, Greenwood - Stableford
From the Outback Golf Bar in Siam Country Road, it only takes 35 minutes to reach the Greenwood Golf Club up the highway 331. Teeing off ahead of schedule on the A & B nines, most of the 34 Outbackers were treated to rounds of under four hours.
About half way through, it seemed that there was going to be another deluge of rain as the thunder rolled around, the temperature dropped and the wind got up; even the caddies were fooled as they donned the complimentary rain macs to the golf bags. But it didn’t happen, apart from a few drops, everybody escaped the rain unscathed.
The low season starts here on 1st April and the green fee is down to 600 baht plus caddie but take note that the course will be closed on Mondays, as in previous years.
It’s quite surprising that the highest score of the day was only 37 which won Div C and was obtained by Morten Gauslaa, three clear of Patrick Browne, with UK visitor, Vic Barton, one shot further back. Rosco (36pts) followed his victory at Burapha earlier in the week, with another good round here but was apparently rumoured to have ‘dropped his hands’ so to speak, as he neared the finishing line. Good round Rosco, one more point would have earned you 2 ladder points!
Div A featured three guys who have often played together, on this occasion they didn’t, but Jim, Joe & Rick shared the spoils between them, Jim at the top with 36.
There were only two ‘2’s from Glen Riding and Kris Helgasson.
Div A (0-12)
1st James Brackett (6) 36pts
2nd Joe Mooneyham (11) 35pts
3rd Rick Sharp (12) 35pts
Div B (13-18)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) 36pts
2nd Kristinn Helgason (16) 34pts
3rd Ian Button (16) 32pts
Div C (19+)
1st Morten Gauslaa (22) 37pts
2nd Patrick Browne (25) 34pts
3rd Vic Barton (19) 33pts

Hall takes the win on St. Patrick’s Day

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, and it seemed everyone had a bit of the green in their attire. There was also no shortage of green on the Pattaya Country Club course as the Three Sisters Group teed off at 06:30, and except for the #2 green which was more like a bunker with the sand coating, the course was in good shape and well mowed.

Tuesday’s winner Richard Hall (left) with runner up Donald Goins.

As might be expected, the “Free Drop Jim” group lagged well behind the starting groups but all participants eventually made it back to Caddy Shack II for some of Herbie Ishinaga’s fine regular and spicy hot dogs.
As the cards were tallied, it was found that Richard Hall had come in with a very respectable 39 points followed by Donald Goins with 38. Don was due to shortly return to the ‘City of Lost Wages’. Til next trip Don, have a good one.
Herbie was right on the leaders’ tails coming in with a 37, Paul Kraft followed with a 36 and the remainder of the group went down from there.

Rocky’s revenge is followed by Tommee’s Trouser Snake triumph

Pattaya Sunday Softball

Diego Wells
Sunday, March 15 marked the return of sausages and burgers to Pattaya softball. The lovely Ice is back skillfully sizzling the meat, after a two week vacation in Bangkok. All of the boys, and especially this scribe, were elated to see that foxy greyhound back in business again.

Rocky touches home plate as Peter counts runs.
It was also good to see some new blood arrive at the Jomtien field of dreams at 1 p.m. A warm welcome was given to John G, Robert, as well as Richard and Bruce who made the trek from Bangkok. Rick, our controversial umpire, who doesn’t mind an ale or twenty, screamed out “PLAY BALL” and the boys took to the field.
Game 1
Tommee’s Trouser Snakes, struck first, scoring 3 slick runs off a homerun blast from Diego to right center field. Rocky’s Red Rockets countered with consistent hits and relentless base running. Several slugging shots by Sriracha John, Philapino Richard, Rick, John Stockton, Rocky and Alan, gave the Rockets a 7-3 lead that they never relinquished.
Tommee and his team of Trouser Snakes slithered back into the game with a run in the second and three in the third to tie the score. However, Rocky’s three run blast to deep left center field was the dagger, as the Rockets regained a 4 run lead in the 4th.
The Trouser Snakes would not be softened though, and they pushed the Rockets until the final out. They scored 4 in the final frame, and had a chance to take the game to extra innings. Unfortunately John Chicken F. popped out to Richard at third base with two on base to end the game 15-14 for the Rockets.

Tommee gives a salute.
The funniest moment of the game (unless you were Tommee) was when an errant throw from Diego, who was totting a half eaten sausage in his glove, led to Tommee being trounced at third by a hard running Sriracha John. To his credit, Tommee picked himself up, yelled at yours truly and put his game face on for game 2.
Game 2
Due to the competitiveness of game 1, the boys decided to keep the identical teams for the second half of the double header. Tommee’s team this time cooled the Rockets with solid, all around defence.
New Canadian stud Bruce made several strong plays at left field, while Phil finally decided to bend down at shortstop and threw out many of the Rocket batters. Diego and Bruce banged out homers and Robert and Nick hit long doubles to give the Trouser Snakes plenty of breathing room. Final count was a 9 to 3 victory for the Trouser Snakes.
Profile of a Player
Two long time, unsung heroes are profiled here today. For the first time Tommee and Rocky were given the title of captain and both performed brilliantly in their roles! As the booby prize (a prize most in Pattaya enjoy) they will now be roasted by yours truly, and hopefully both will still be talking to me, come next Sunday. So without further ado, I give you the Rocky and Tommee show.
Rocky, known more for his fashionable dress then his dangerous bat, has slowly but surely become a ball player. Typically sulking in the corner, when picked last, the ROCK was captain for the day, and was a force to be reckoned with. He banged a major league home run in the first game to spark his team to victory and snatched a sure homerun blast off Diego’s bat in game two. He has deceptive speed around the bases, and now that his bat and glove seem to be working, he may actually be picked second last next week!
Tommee wins the award for most dedicated baller. Now that he has moved to Chang Dao, our humble amigo only has to drive 12 hours to get to our Sunday classics. The ex-professor usually puts on a defensive clinic at third, short of second base. He is a crafty hitter as well, often finding the correct holes to hit into (must have practiced this lots in Pattaya).
Normally mild mannered and mellow, the drive from Northern Thailand hyped up our captain and made him a jumpy lad today. He was knocked down twice in the two games, which left him bloody and hobbling. However, no one can deny the fact that Tommee was out there having the time of his life. If you asked him if the drive out to the field was worth it, I am sure the veteran softball warrior would light up a fag and tell you, Absolutely!
The Pattaya softball players perform our bag of tricks every Sunday at 1 p.m. in Jomtien (left on Soi 85 off Sukhumvit going towards Ban Saray, then 7km to Soi 15, turn left go 500m and voila) and we are still looking for a few good guys to join us in our pseudo athletic endeavours. Hope you will join us out there next week!

Green Chilli takes over at the top

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

It is early in the league and almost all of the teams changed positions after week four. Noodle Russell bowled a 545 series to lead Green Chilli to a four point win over last week’s leader Café Ole while Brother D won three points from Jack Tar to move into second place. Mai Munsitha rolled a 526 series for Jack Tar but she didn’t get much help from her team mates.

200 Bowlers: Kaew, Tukata Thompson & Mio Aamlid

Sala Thai Restaurant won three points from Sabai Sabai Friday behind Somrak’s 519 series and Nok Kennedy had a 538 for Sabai. Kaew bowled a 214 game and 568 series to lead VFW Post 9876 to a three point win over Café Kronborg and Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 560 series and Lek Reaper added a 514 to give Canada a 2-2 split with Swethai. Meanwhile Bavaria moved up the standings after taking three points from Indiana.