Phosuwan fails in world title bid

PM Reporters
Veteran Thai boxer Pramuansak Phosuwan came up short in his bid to land the vacant WBO super-flyweight title in Puerto Rico last Saturday night after he was out-pointed by local fighter Jose Lopez.

Puerto Rico’s Jose Lopez (right) lands a blow against Thailand’s Pramuansak Phosuwan, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Saturday, March 28. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)

The forty-year-old Phosuwan lost on a unanimous decision 117-111, 117-111 and 116-112 to record only his second loss in 46 professional fights.
The 37-year old Lopez appeared to be much quicker out of the blocks than Phosuwan and built up an early lead in the contest. Despite coming back in the latter stages of the fight, the Thai boxer was unable to make up the points deficit on the judges cards and Lopez was duly crowned a worthy champion.
Phosuwan’s only other loss came in 2005 at the hands of Mexico’s Fernando Montiel who held the super-flyweight title before relinquishing it to move up to bantamweight.

Top of the Gulf and Samui regattas loom large

The Top of the Gulf Regatta promises some
great sailing action from April 30 – May 5.

Peter Cummins
The yacht-racing scene in Thailand, having started with the Pang Nga Bay Regatta over the Chinese Lunar New Year, is heading into favourable winds and waters, nautically speaking, that is. Surprisingly, in spite of the global economic chaos, sponsors such as Raimon Land, Web Sawasdee PLC and the Ocean Marina Yacht Club are firm in their commitments to the Kingdom’s marine leisure sector.
Perhaps, though, the qualifier “in spite of” should read “because of”. In a world plundered by ruthless money-grubbers, failed banks and many dubious “investors”, yacht racing and the open seas of the Kingdom beckon, with the challenge of unfettered Nature. No hidden agendas and no board-room invective enter the equation of staging a regatta.
First up on the horizon will be the forthcoming Top of the Gulf Regatta (TOGR), to be sailed out off the Ocean Marina from 30 April through the fifth of May. Subsequent to the opening of Ocean Marina’s new tower, at last year’s regatta, Bill Gasson, the power behind the throne, announced recently that “the piling is underway for the renovation and expansion of Ocean Marina. The replacement piles for the outer-berth piers have been driven and work on the piling for the new berths has commenced. We are awaiting the dredging schedule which will be done on several refurbished berths to allow 4 meter draft at low tides.”
These berths will be allocated on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis for yachts with paid -up entries. This is due to improved communications with owners and the promise of deeper berths for some of the maxi-yachts expected and, as has been the case in earlier regattas, free or subsidized moorings will be given to boats competing in both events.
Regatta updates
Progress towards both regattas is going well with much interest coming from world-wide sources. Top of the Gulf (30 April - 5 May) and the Koh Samui Regatta (first week of June) will see many of the Asian-Pacific region’s best teams of sailors back in the Kingdom.
Sponsorship for the TOGR continues from the two original supporters, Ocean Property and Raimon Land. Efforts are being made to secure additional sponsors to augment resources emanating from ongoing supporters. Accommodation sponsors on the Eastern Seaboard will offer a big range of room types for the duration of the TOGR.
In addition to many Platu s available for the regatta, Gulf Charters have a regatta package and Sunsail have just finalized their own special deals on regatta packages for both TOGR and Samui.
Jerry Collins has been confirmed as Race Officer for the TOGR keelboat courses and the international Jury is confirmed. The two other courses for the three-day dinghy and beach-launched classes will feature professional race managers.
Bill expects record fleets which could well top the 400 mark and such race management professionals as Royal Thai Navy men and Royal Varuna Yacht Club sailors will be lending support and competing.
Following the TOGR, the splendid Sawasdee Koh Samui Regatta will sail off the beautiful island during the first week of June.
Web Sawasdee Plc, Thailand’s leading inbound travel company, has confirmed a three-year sponsorship of the Samui International Yacht Regatta, a top sporting and lifestyle event on the Asian calendar, by coming aboard as the main sponsor for the next three years. The 2009 Samui Regatta will take place from June 1-6.
Now in its eighth year, the “Tropical Island Regatta” which has almost the entire local and expatriate community supporting Web Sawasdee PLC, is considered one of the yachting community’s favourite sailing events in the region. As usual, the regatta home base will be the Centara Grand Beach Resort, which also sponsors the amazing opening party at Zico’s Brazilian Grill and Bar and, of course, the most expansive Awards party at Centara.
As the final stop in the Asian Yachting Grand Prix, the racing always attracts the best boats of all categories and crews from around the world. The seventh Regatta had over 300 participants from over 10 countries and this year’s event is on track to be even more popular. Based on the number of enquiries to date, the number of competitors on the water is estimated to grow by at least 20 percent.
Commenting on the sponsorship, Christian Lukey, Web Sawasdee Plc’s chief operation officer, said: “As a Koh Samui-born organisation, we have watched the Regatta grow in status and popularity over the years so it makes perfect sense to us to come on board as title sponsor. We are keen to show visitors to the region that Koh Samui is so much more than just a beach destination. Along with the Regatta, there will be a whole range of lifestyle events and sporting activities to discover and enjoy. Of course, the sponsorship is also a great opportunity for Sawadee.com to build brand awareness throughout the region.”
Callum Laing, chairman of the organising committee, explained: “The 2009 Regatta is set to reach a whole new level and our new partners will help us share this magical event with a greater audience. This year, we’ll focus on showing off the island of Koh Samui whilst introducing the magnificent sport of yachting to a wider, and younger, audience in Asia. We’re also planning a number of fundraising and environmentally-responsible initiatives during the Regatta.”
For further media information, entries and other info about TOGR, please contact: Bill Gasson at info@topof thegulfregatta.com; Chanut @infinity-coms.com or visit www.topofthegulfregatta.com
For the Sawasdee Samui Regatta, please contact: Stephanie Batot (08-1906-2824) or Suthatip Boonsaeng (08-9924-6464); Grayling Global (Thailand); Stephanie.ba [email protected]; Sutha [email protected]; Tel: 02 635 7151-4 Fax: 02 635 7155

Chang scores back to back wins

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, March 23, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
A three ball and nine groups of 4 out today and a steady round for all the players until around six holes from home we caught up with a Korean 5 ball, say no more.

(Left-right): Eastern Star division 2 winners, Jimmy Johnson, Andy Oz and Tom Novak.

It was another very hot day and a very dry course indeed with players complaining their drives were going into the trees after bouncing off the hard fairways. But this has always been a thinking person’s course, where various clubs are needed on each tee.
There was a surprise today as ‘count back’ Burnie beat Andy Oz on count back for fourth in division 2 after they both came in with 29 points each. Jimmy Johnson was third on 31, Miss Nom finished second with 35, and the winner with 36 points was William Chang.
Another count back in division 1 saw Mike Theedam beat Keith Hector for third after both finished with 31 points each, Kari Kuprainen (32pts) took second, and the winner and some 7 points clear was John Mcloone with 39.
There a no 2’s in division 2 but four in the top flight going to Keith Hector, Gisela Jacobson (2) and Mike Theedam.
Near pins went to Keith Hector, Arvo Hiller, Gisela Jacobson, Mike Theedam, Ken Foster, Kalevi L, Miss Nom and Terry Redding.
Later there was a warm welcome back to Ken Lill from the Philippines and bon voyage to Adi Mayer and his lovely wife and also to Terry Redding.
Wednesday, March 25, Eastern Star –Rainbow Stableford.
The last Wednesday of the month signified our fun game - a three divisional rainbow stableford competition, plus the normal nearest the pins and the 2’s.
We had 37 players out today and in this format the men had to select 6 red, 6 white and 6 blue tees to play from while the ladies chose 9 red, 3 yellow and 6 white.
Mikael Andersson had to settle for fifth place in the top division, losing out to Ben Findon on count back after they both came in with 34 points. In third place was Keith Hector with 35, just losing out by one point to Andy Mills, and the winner with 39 points was Howard Stanley.
In the second division, John Bartley beat Tony Holehouse on count back for fourth after they both finished with 34 points; there was another tie for 2nd and 3rd positions as Miss Nom (35pts) beat ‘count back’ Burnie Sinclair, and the winner with 38 points was William Chang.
Tony Duthie, lucky to be in the top division with a handicap of 19, birdied the third hole to take the 2’s pot while John Bartley did the same in the second flight.
Near pins went to Mikael Andersson (2), Howard Stanley, Roy Thornton, John Bartley, William Chang and Rudi Schafer.
In the lucky dip scores for each division William Chang and Tony Duthie’s combined scores came to 65 points to take third place. Ben Findon and Jimmy Johnson split the first and second prizes with John McLoone and Raivo Velsberg after both teams scored 66 points.
It was also a Happy Birthday to Howard Stanley and bon voyage to Jin Connelly.
Friday, March 27, Eastern Star – Stableford
It was another hot day here with only a slight breeze coming off the coast, and there were some very red faces back at the clubhouse afterwards.
In her last game with us, Gisela Jacobson scored 30 points to take third place in division 1; Michael Dige came second with 32 and Karl Flood won with 38. It was more closely contested in division 2 with Tom Novak finishing third with 36 points and arch rivals Andy Oz and Jimmy Johnson both coming in with 37 points, but Jimmy wiped the smile off Andy’s face at the presentation with a 19/15 back nine count back victory.
Michael Dige birdied the 6th to record the only ‘2’ in division 1 and there were none on division 2.
Near pins went to Karl Flood, Gisela Jacobson, Srithong Tann (2), Jimmy Johnson, Tom Novak and Bryan Rought.

Familiar faces on top

(Left-right): Chris John, Britt-Marie Wimmerstedt, and Rich Murphy with their winners prizes from the April Diana Seniors and Ladies Open.

Nigel Cannon
Thursday March 26, Pattaya C.C.
There were 29 players gathered for the monthly Diana Senior’s and Ladies Open at Pattaya Country Club. With a tee-time of 0900 all were booked in by 0910 and off to the first tee. The course was not busy so it was rounds of 4 hours, and with some wind making it comfortable.
It was hoped that Ed Traying – a close friend of the late Mike Franklin - would present the prizes. Unfortunately Ed could not make it but sent some amusing words which were warmly received when read by Nigel.
When the results were announced it was almost a repeat of last month in both the Ladies and Super Seniors. Britt-Marie Wimmerstedt (20) winning with 37 points, and the runner-up again was Siraporn Homkum (17) with 34.
In the Super Seniors Rich Murphy (17) was ‘best of the day’ with 40 points, Alan Pearce (18) was runner-up with 39. In the seniors it was a welcome return to the podium for Chris John (28) with 39 points followed a by another regular Werner Schwarz (17) with 35. All scores are reported to PSC and those with 39 or better receive an immediate handicap cut.
Near pins went in course order to Siraporn Homkum, Arthur Hancock, Alan Pearce, and Morten Gauslaa, and the longest putts were sunk by Knut Tuvstein and Rich Murphy.
The next competition will be on Thursday April 30 at Pattaya Country Club with tee time 0900. Sign up sheets are at Diana Driving Range and Green Bottle 2nd road.

Robbins has a scorcher at Bangpakong

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, March 23, Greenwood - Medal
A Flight
1st Tony Robbins (14) net 67
2nd Glen Cunningham (4) net 70
3rd Alan Sullivan (12) net 70
B Flight
1st Jack Robertson (22) net 69
2nd John Hughes (17) net 70
3rd Don McPherson (22) net 73
Near Pins: Glen Cunningham (2), Mashi.
Greenwood was in lovely condition when the players arrived there for the first game of the week.

Tony Robbins was a two time winner last week.

Playing a Medal round, Tony Robbins had a great day shooting five under par to win the A Flight. Three shots back came Glen Cunningham and Alan Sullivan with Glen taking the runner up spot on a count back.
There were more good scores in the B Flight where Canadian Jack Robertson won with a three under par total, one shot ahead of second placed John Hughes (whose handicap gets higher by the week), and Don McPherson came in third beating Colin Stokes on a count back.
Wednesday, March 25, Bangpakong - Stableford
A Flight
1st Tony Robbins (13) 45pts
2nd Rab McDonald (10) 35pts
3rd Rob Herald (15) 35pts
B Flight
1st PJ Redmond (17) 36pts
2nd Jack Gayer (19) 34pts
3rd Rod Stevens (23) 33pts
Near Pins: Rab McDonald, Rod Stevens, Tony Robbins and Geoff Parker.
We all know it’s quite a long way to Bangpakong but Keith Smithson, who thought he knew his way around the golf courses in Thailand, took the scenic route, had to fill up his car on the way and still never made it to the first tee, returning to Pattaya with his two passengers very dejected at missing out on playing one of the better courses in the area.
The rest of the golfers had a wonderful day and it was Tony Robbins who had the best score again, winning the A Flight with a fantastic 45 points. A full ten points behind came runner up Rab McDonald, who beat Rob Herald on a count back.
PJ Redmond kept up his push for the golfer of the month title by winning the B Flight ahead of his pal and fellow Irishman Jack Gayer, with Rod Stevens taking third place a point behind him.
Friday, March 27,  Crystal Bay - Medal
1st Geoff Parker (14) net 68
2nd JJ Harney (10) net 73
3rd Jim Wooler (22) net 75
4th Rab McDonald (10) net 76
Near Pins: David Day, JJ Harney, Peter Habgood and Keith Smithson
The Bunker Boy’s played a Medal round at Crystal Bay with the Matchplay team playing ahead of the rest of the field on a very hot and sunny day.
With only two games left in the month, the race for the golfer of the month title is still wide open with both PJ Redmond and Geoff Parker setting the pace. It was Geoff Parker who shone today, coming in with a four under par round. JJ Harney came in as runner up despite his “sore wrist”, Jim Wooler took third place and Rab McDonald came in fourth beating a whole bunch of golfers who finished with net 76 on a count back.

Gentleman Gary chases Category 1 status

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, March 22, Green Valley – Stableford
A Flight
1st Gary Blackburne (6) 40pts
2nd Chaten Patel (13) 39pts
3rd Seamus Cotter (11) 38pts
B Flight
1st Ben Nelson (14) 39pts
2nd Doug Campbell (19) 37pts
3rd Mark Bonner (16) 36pts
Near Pins: #2 Steve Plant, #9 Pierre Bietry, #12 Gavin Knock, #16 Roy Thornton.
2’s: Fourteen
Baan Jing Jai hidden six: 1st Chaten Patel, 2nd Lou Szigileti
The Honorable Garry Blackburne esquire, who plays off a seemingly miserable 6 handicap, served yet another notice that he may deserve to be even lower and join the elite rank of category 1 golfers (Hcp 5 or less). Gary returned a match winning 40 points to walk away with A Flight and the man of the match honours.
Chaten Patel came up a shot short to grab second spot and there was a three-way tangle up for third, with Seamus V C needing all the luck of the Irish to hold of Vic Hester and Ian “Loose change” Halfpenny.
Ben “The Admiral” Nelson fired a very impressive 39 points to lead B Flight. Doug Campbell came up a shot short for second leaving, Mark “The mussel” Bonner to pip Gary Emmet on count-back. I must apologize to Mark, as in last week’s write up I miss-spelt his nickname by writing mussels as opposed muscles. Anyway it made me laugh so I kept it in regardless. I guess this was a little shellfish of me, but it is nice to see him finally coming out of his shell.
Monday, March 23, Crystal Bay - Stableford
A Flight
1st Andrew Byrne (14) 39pts
2nd Tore Eliassen (14) 35pts
Monday’s outing was to Crystal Bay. With the reduced green fees this is a must play course. That said, only one competitor managed to break par and he was Ireland’s Andrew Byrne, posting a best of the day 39 points. Second place fell to Tore Eliassen on 35. The Magician conjured up the only ‘2’ of the day.
Wednesday, March 25, Khao Kheow – Stableford
A Flight
1st Andrew Byrne (14) 40pts
2nd Jim Brackett (6) 34pts
B Flight
1st Eddie Beilby (17) 34pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (15) 30pts
This course is tough, we all know that, but today was a little tougher as the greens had just been cored and sanded. Whatever, there is always someone who copes better than the rest and today was no exception, as standing head and shoulders above everyone and winning two games on the trot was Ireland’s Andrew Byrne. While most competitors were thinking about making sand castles on the greens, Andrew showed a masterly touch to sink putt after putt and amass 40 superb points, and become the only golfer to better his handicap on the day. Big Jim Brackett mustered 34 pts for silver.
The Captain himself grabbed the gold in the junior flight, garnering a fair 34 points, followed by the Magician who took silver by way of the dreaded count back over the unlucky Jim Elphick.
Bob Newell, alias Chairman Mao, had the biggest smile of the day as he notched the day’s only ‘2’. Incidentally, Bob’s own status as a Category 1 golfer following his heroics in the club championship didn’t last long. One week to be precise, as he’s now back languishing on 6. It’s tough at the top Bob!
Friday, March 27, St. Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Justin Fowlis (13) 39pts
2nd Mark Wood (8) 37pts
3rd Paul West (12) 36pts
B Flight
1st Mick Shrosbree (14) 41pts
2nd Nick Payne (14) 36pts
3rd Ken Carron (14) 33pts
A good size crowd took to the road to play the super St Andrews and the course was found to be in excellent condition.
Justin Fowlis took it upon his self to show A Flight how to tackle this tricky layout by returning an excellent 39 points for gold. Mark “Happy shoes” was two shots behind for the silver, leaving Paul West a further shot back to fill out the flight with the bronze.
To gain entry to B Flight you needed a handicap of 14, ask the captain? Carron Ken got the verdict in a three-way count back for third spot with 33 points, missing out were the unlucky pair of Andy Byrne and Eddie the captain. Nicky “Two gloves” gained a bit of pocket money for second with an even par round and winning man of the match and B Flight honours was Mick Shrosbree, posting the day’s best, a very tiring 41 points.
Geoff Kubas and Eddie the captain split 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.

Freeman has a round to remember

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, March 24, The Emerald (White tees) - Stableford
Seventeen turned out to take on Green Valley where we started after Eighteen Coins and ahead of Mulligans Lakeside, so plenty of familiar faces on the course, which is in excellent shape and is popular with the group.

David Day (left) and Mick Benton (right) were the flight winners at Plutaluang on Thursday.

Ian Wheeldon again won the A Division (15 and less) with 38 points followed by Bob Drumm and John Roddis with 31 points apiece. In the B Division (16 and up) newcomer to the group Alan Freeman had his best round ever he tells us, notching up 45 points and knocking four shots off his handicap. So Alan is now 28 until the next auto handicap revision. Willy Nachbur and yours truly trailed behind in second and third with 37 and 33 points respectively.
Paco notched two near pin dividends, Ian Wheeldon another, whilst Roger Kidd nailed the longest first putt on the 18th green. The average score was 31.2 points.
Thursday, March 26, Plutaluang N & W (White tees) - Stableford
A surprisingly large group enjoyed superb golfing conditions, even if some of us found the greens challenging.
The A Division (handicaps 16 and less) with 10 players was won by newcomer David Day (15) with 37 points, with David Clamp, John Roddis and Ian Wheeldon taking the minor places with 34, 33 and 32 points respectively.
The B Division (handicaps 17 and up) with 12 players was won by Mick Benton with 35 points followed by scribe, Willy Nachbur and Paul Smylie with 32, 31 and 30 points respectively. The average score was 28.7 points indicating why many players find the West nine somewhat stressful.
The Management Committee would like to remind one and all that P J Pool Bar golfing group is not a handicapping authority. The group is affiliated with Pattaya Sports Club which is the handicapping authority for most participants. Scores on our days are submitted to PSC on behalf of PSC members and apologies are made in advance should any inputting errors occur. However, it is up to golfers individually to monitor their handicaps and to raise any queries that they may encounter with their handicapping authority – PSC.
The new online PSC handicapping system is a truly wonderful thing and is a great boon to those who wish to monitor handicaps. A record of scores reported is now being maintained by Management Committee and this record along with any others including the money in/money out book are available for inspection by those playing with this group.
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.

Lakeside belongs to Lazecki

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society visited the lovely course at Royal Lakeside on Tuesday, March 24 to play a stableford competition on the well manicured track. There is something here for all discerning golfers with generous fairways and the best greens found anywhere in the province and the two flights cut at eighteen and under had an enjoyable test in their sights.
In the top flight, Rick Holmes and Tore Eliassen shared third place with 34 points each. The flight joint winners were Chris Voller and Vic Barton, the latter playing his final round this trip and ending as he had begun many weeks ago with a level par return.
Scores were similar in the second flight with Steve McGill and John Mason sharing runner-up place with 36 points each, but that’s where the fun stopped. Canadian Tim Lazecki was having the round of his life, ending up with 46 points to register not only his best round ever but the best PGS round in more than 140 competitions. It was the round we all dream about, drives long and accurate, approaches regularly near the pin and slick accurate putts. Dream on Tim!
Joop Medze took the top flight’s only birdie ‘2’ after a fine effort on fifteen but the whole of the second flight shook their heads in amazement as no birdies were returned leaving a final huge rollover at Green Valley next time out.
The Booby Bevy went to Len Jones who after a fine two-under front nine forgot about the art of putting, leaving everything woefully short on the back nine. On consistent greens such as these it was no excuse, except perhaps for a cold beer at the end of another fine golf day with the PGS.
Rod gives some stick
The Pattaya Golf Society traveled to Green Valley on Thursday, March 26 to play a stableford event, which was also to be the first day of a two-day eclectic tournament. The course was well set up but some top dressing on the greens the previous week had meant that they were slower than normal.
The two divisions were cut at nineteen and under and in the top flight the returning Carl Lovatt posted 30 points for a surprising third place. Once again Harry Riley almost dominated on his own course with a steady 33 points only to fall behind playing partner Chris Voller, who made good this week a previous boast that he would win something, taking his second successive flight win with 35 points.
In the second flight Jack Robertson tied with Emiel van der Wiele for runner-up with 35 points but they were eclipsed by the form of Rod Stevens, breaking ninety for the first time in the Kingdom, en route to a winning forty point return.
Chri’s Voller scored the only birdie ‘2’ of the day, on the second hole, whilst Pat Murphy took the second flight rollover honours with a tie-breaking tee shot on the sixteenth.
Larry Ang received the Booby Bevy for getting lost on the way home, whilst bearing a winner, thus delaying the presentation, whilst the rest studied their cards in an attempt to plan their second day tactics for the eclectic event which would conclude at Green Valley two days hence.
Bardill breaks free
The second day of the Pattaya Golf Society’s eclectic stableford event at Green Valley took place on Saturday, March 28. Results from the first day had set up a finely balanced final day with a separate stableford competition for good measure. In that event Markku Tynell scored 30 points for third place in the second flight, following Ray Underwood’s 31 points for second. Emiel van der Wiele’s progress gave him 33 points for the flight win.
In the top flight Chris Voller, Harry Riley and Carl Lovatt all shared third place with 36 points, two behind Rick Holmes’ 38 points, which also represented the best gross of the day (79). The flight winner was Andy Bardill whose 39 point score took not only the flight win but also propelled him into second in the eclectic event, improving his first day score by eighteen points. An eight point advantage saw Emiel take third place whilst Rod Stevens improved by ten points to extend his first day total to fifty points for the overall win
Other winners on the day were Len Jones, Carl Lovatt, Chris Voller, Rod Stevens and Ray Jackson who all took healthy shares of the rolled over 2’s pot.
The arrival of a very good golfing friend later at the presentation in Soi Buakhao ended two hugely enjoyable days of competition golf at Green Valley.

A game of two halves for the scribe

New Jomtien golf group tees off

A new golf society teed off from the popular Hot Legs Sports Bar in Jomtien Complex on Tuesday, March 24. The main man and organizer is the very popular “Paddy” Hamilton who used to be a member of the IPGC committee.
At the moment the society is not a member of either IPGC or Pattaya Sports Club, though that may change in the future depending on how things go.
Golfing days are Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, and tee times are at 11.30am to mid-day, so good for those who like to party the night away.
For more information call Paddy on 086 062 5533

Bob Benda beats the heat to win

PSC golf from The Beaver Bar & Grill

Monday morning once again broke with the sun shinning brightly on the Green Valley Golf Club. There were a few clouds about but none above the golfers to protect them from the heat and only a trace of a breeze. Everyone should be getting use to these weather conditions by now. But, this did not seem to bother many of the Beaver’s golfers as the scores were hot as well.
Bob Benda came to the clubhouse with an outstanding 40 stableford points to take top honors for the day. Mike Padilla followed in second place with a very nice 37 points leaving Rick Evans and Bob Finley tied at 36 points apiece. Using the count back system, it was still a tie so 3rd and 4th places were declared a draw and the prizes were divided equally.
Closest to the pin on number 16 was won by Geoff Stubbs.

Doody’s double up at Emerald

PSC golf with The Outback Golf Bar

Ken Hopkins & Lyn Foote join the winning
Doody’s after their successful day at Emerald.

Joey’s column
Monday, March 23, Burapha - Stableford
It was business as usual for the 46 Outbackers who played the A & B nines at Burapha today. It was the customary on time two-tee start, with everybody away by 10.30 and back by 2.30, some guys reporting that they were round in three and half hours. The course was in great condition and the greens were quick and difficult to read for some.
Bruce Milner, aka B1, clearly had no problem, racking up an enormous 42 points to win Div B by a country mile from his compatriot, the ever consistent, Rosco; who had a very creditable 37. However, there was one unusual name on the podium, Jim Moreton in fourth place; it’s true to say – that’s a first for him at the Outback, well done Jim!
The ‘Roo Cup’ was once again under challenge again from Eddie Smith & Paul Greenaway (The Brits) against The Aussies, the current holders, Capt’ Bob & (this time) Rosco. Regrettably the British challenge failed miserably, going down 3 & 2. To date, the Aussies remain unbeaten.
The last monthly ladder also enters its final stages with Rosco gaining two points today and going two clear at the top. Bruce Milner collected three to go joint second with John Lawton and Pat Regan with Sugar Ray and Neil Lavery just one point further back. It’s anybody’s title this month.
There were four ‘2’s coming from Bruce Milner, Bob Philp, Mark Hurwood & John Foote
Div A (0-11)
1st James McCallan (11) 37pts
2nd Bob Philp (8) 36pts
3rd Mark Hurwood (5) 35pts
Div B (12-15)
1st Bruce Milner (15) 42pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (14) 37pts
3rd Tony Gliddon (12) 36pts
4th James Moreton (13) 32pts
Div C (16-19)
1st John Sarcasmo (19) 37pts
2nd Peter Stonebridge (18) 36pts
3rd Steve Ready (19) 34pts
4th Murray Hart (17) 32pts
Div D (20+) white tees
1st Jesse Serna (36) 33pts
2nd Peter Gibson (25) 33pts
Tuesday, March 24, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
Seventeen Outbackers plus a few from Tropical Berts, playing in the MBMG matchplay took to this local course today, in very hot and at times, humid conditions; but fortunately the rain stayed away.
Everybody knows that this course is not the best around but it does have a good layout and one can score well if one plays well. The pace of the greens varies considerably and one or two of them do have some pretty large gouges and scruffy patches in them, making the putt a bit of a lottery. The downhill putts were not as fast as they looked and it was easy leave a putt short, even on the 16th.
However, Mark Hurwood gouged out a great 74 gross to score 39 points to win the day from the consistent John Lawton with 37. Also with 37 was Aussie visitor, John Sarcasmo, who has already been cut from 20 to 19 on this trip. Well played you guys!
In the match, it has to be reported that the Outback Golf Bar lost again.
There was one jackpot ‘2’, scooped by Mark Hurwood.
1st Mark Hurwood (5) 39pts
2nd John Lawton (19) 37pts
3rd John Sarcasmo (19) 37pts
4th Tony Gliddon (12) 34pts
5th John Stafford (20) 34pts
Wednesday, March 25, Phoenix - Stableford
Twenty Outbackers played the Lakes and Ocean nines, but apart from Rick Evans (36pts), winner of Div A and Bruce Milner (35pts), runner up of Div A; the scoring was somewhat disappointing.
The popular score of the day was a four over handicap 32, from Mike Waltschek (3rd Div A) beating Anton Rowbottom on count back and both Joe Spinley & Norm Martin at the top of Div B shared the same score. It’s good bye to Anton, who joins Steve Mann and George Gardner (both played at Plantation) in returning to Aus today, and no doubt you’ll be back next year.
Thanks also to the day’s organiser, Norm Martin as Capt’ Bob & General Jack were away at Plantation.
There were no ‘2’s, so the pot was added to prize fund.
Div A (0-18)
1st Rick Evans (5) 36pts
2nd Bruce Milner (13) 35pts
3rd Michael Waltschek (8) 32pts
Div B (19+)
1st Joe Spinley (19) 32pts
2nd Norm Martin (26) 32pts
3rd Paul Crosland (23) 31pts
Wednesday, March 25, Siam Plantation - Stableford
In the current economic gloom and whilst the Aussies and the Brits in particular suffer poor exchange rates with the Thai Baht, many of the golf courses in the area are at last prepared to negotiate lower green fees. As in keeping with previous years, the prices charged would be expected to go down for the upcoming ‘low season’. Burapha have already reduced their prices and Phoenix are shortly to introduce an every weekday ‘sports day’. Other courses like Crystal Bay, Mountain Shadow and Pattana have all introduced cheaper deals to woo back the golfers.
Why is it then that Siam Plantation & Old Siam are doing the exact opposite? It is fair to say that they are both superb courses but since the huge success of the recent LPGA event there is no sign of a reduction in rates or a sport day. At the Outback’s first two visits to Plantation since moving to a Wednesday at the visibly increased green fee, just 35 golfers have played (plus another 9 if it hadn’t rained), compared with in the middle of the last year’s low season, in May & June, when an average of 48, each and every week, were playing on a Friday at the special Outback rate. Come on Plantation, take another look at your pricing policy.
Just 28 there today playing Pineapple and Sugarcane where Capt’ Bob & George Gardner were the stars of the show, both scoring 40 points off the same eight handicap. That’s great golf round here in anybody’s book and Bob’s handicap has been cut from 7.9 to 7.0 and George’s similarly, although he may have to wait until next year as he returns to Aus. today. It’s also good bye to Steve Mann who enjoyed some great golf with Outback as well.
Rosco went well again with another 36 points to win Div B from Paul Lavender (34), and John Sacasmo (36), also in a purple patch, won Div C.
There were four ‘2’s from George Gardner, Chris Allan & Capt’ Bob had two.
Div A (0-12)
1st Bob Philp (8) 40pts
2nd George Gardner (8) 40pts
3rd Gary Ralph (12) 32pts
Div B (13-16)
1st Rosco Langoulant (14) 36pts
2nd Paul Lavender (14) 34pts
3rd Russ Whyte (15) 32pts
Div C (17+)
1st John Sarcasmo (19) 36pts
2nd Lynn Foote (29) 34pts
3rd Michael Flynn (20) 34pts
Thursday, March 26, Green Valley - Stableford
Fourteen happy Outbackers descended upon Green Valley today and played a round in four hours. Colour Sergeant Chad ran the day and all went well with the start going off on time and no punctures on the way there or back. Welcome back to Mark and Ben Kembrey, Micky Moore, and to John Foote.
On another day of mediocre scoring, coming in first was, the current ‘Mr. Consistent’, John Lawton (34pts) on count back from the lovely Kathy Doody with the same score; in third was Pat Regan (33) and taking the last place on the podium was Geoff Doody on just 30 points.
There were two ‘2’s, one conventional one from Pat Regan and apparently Colour Sergeant Chad’s, scampered in out of a bunker. Back at the ranch, everyone enjoyed a couple of beers and plenty of cheer & chat.
1st John Lawton (19) 34pts
2nd Kathy Doody (18) 34pts
3rd Patrick Regan (9) 33pts
4th Geoff Doody (20) 30pts
Friday, March 27, The Emerald – Stableford
Whilst Capt’ Bob & General Jack were away on MBMG Matchplay duty against the Bunker at Crystal Bay, Colour Sergeant Chad hosted the 29 Outbackers playing at the wonderful little Emerald course. Little yes, short yes, but easy, no!
It was the Doody show all over again, Kathy winning Div A with a mere 34 points (so you can’t complain boys, you just didn’t play well enough!) and Geoff winning Div B, with a more respectable 36 points. John and Lyn Foote, sadly played their last game with the Outback as they return to Aus tomorrow, but not before Lyn put a good round in, scoring 35 points, to take second in Div B.
A big welcome goes out today to Ken Hopkins, who joined us all the way from Kazakhstan, on the recommendation of Tim Whittaker, a mutual colleague of his there, and of the Outback Golf Bar.
There were only three ‘2’s, coming from Barry Chadbourn, Campbell Potts & Rick Evans.
Div A (0-18)
1st Kathy Doody (18) 34pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (14) 32pts
3rd Kerry Beck (12) 30pts
4th Rick Evans (5) 29pts
Div B (19+)
1st Geoff Doody (20) 36pts
2nd Lyn Foote (29) 35pts
3rd John Cogan (19) 32pts
4th Peter Gibson (25) 31pts

Super Stuart wins again

Phoenix Tuesday Group from The PSC

Mike Gerrard
Tuesday. March 24, Phoenix Mountain & Lakes - Stableford
As we keep on saying, another day in paradise. I don’t want to appear too repetitive, but once again we had the course virtually to ourselves. I think a very worrying situation not only for the golf courses, but for us old codgers who have memberships. If the worst happens we could end up with nothing. I’m sure our foreign money will take a turn for the better soon?
On to the days play: Mountain and Lakes course was the challenge and with the heat rising it was a challenge (well for me it was). After a heavy weekend of performing for the PSC Charity Classic and Yorkies 10th anniversary, I was a little worn out.
From the headline you can see that Stuart Gordon won the honours today with 37 points (however, both myself and Gary Blackburne, who scored only 30 points each, still won the skins from Stuart. Strange old game innit).
That lovable senior citizen Tom Breslin gained second spot with 36 points, this after finishing in the winners enclosure last Friday at the PSC Charity Classic.
Near pins went to Gary Blackburne (2) and myself (2). The only good news from this for everybody else was that the above names could not win the lucky draw. This prestigious prize (1 golf ball) went to the unpronounceable Richard Tereskiviche. This was apt reward for the guy as we all celebrated the birth of his baby daughter to Christina.
Two very good reasons to wet the babies head back at Toy’s Bar where most of the group enjoyed the first beer (or soft drink) free out of the day’s takings.
One other duty was to have an open draw for a 500 baht food voucher, which went to Patrick Browne. It was then onto some serious drinking for an hour or two before we all staggered on our way home.
Please Note - I will be away from the 1st April until the 1st May and our winner today Stuart Gordon will take care of the registration and presentation in my absence. You can contact him on 085 630 7402.

Pleasant Valley but tough conditions

PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Graham Hiskett & John McKeon enjoy the open air beer garden
with Mulligans Lakeside staff.

Tuesday, March 24,
Green Valley - Stableford
Tuesday saw the golfers travel to Green Valley, where we played in warm conditions with a light breeze. The course was in good condition with greens hard & medium paced.
John Hicks came to terms best with the conditions, firing a creditable 37 points off his 18 h/cap. He was the only player to better the course, while Jeff Wylie (8) battled to 34 points, with David Edwards (15) a further point behind on 33.
The Near Pins were spread around between John Chapman, Jim Fortune and Tony Hayes, who fired a gem in to the 16th, almost holing out.
Thursday, March 26,
Pleasant Valley - Stableford
We journeyed up Highway 7 on Thursday, just north of Khao Kheow, to pit our skills against the recently developed Pleasant Valley; this being our first time here that we have played off the shorter white tees. The course was in very good condition with large, sloping greens, which made for some slow putts uphill from long distance.
During the play we were threatened by an electrical storm, accompanied by some intermittent rain, this did little to help the pace of the greens.
Scores were in line with the conditions of the day, with no-one from the group bettering their h/cap. Best of the day was Graham Hiskett (15) who fired 35 points, 21 on the back in the worst of the weather was a good effort. Closely following with 34 points was John McKeon (13), while Near Pins were spread amongst Terry Phur (converted for birdie 2), Jeff Wylie & our landlord Ray Ryan, who had his name on 3 Pins at 1 stage.
Note: Golf at Mulligans Lakeside is held on Tuesdays & Thursdays, affiliated with the PSC. We will be accessing the various vouchers available to affiliates and these savings will be passed on in full to our golfers, with NO administration charges being levied and ALL competition fees being returned in prizes. Call Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088 for details on courses & tee off times.
April 23 will be a big day at Mulligans Lakeside, with St George’s Day being celebrated in conjunction with long time visitor, John Ottaway’s birthday. It promises to be a great day at Green Valley with plenty of prizes and a big party afterwards. Limited spaces are available so book your tee off time early.
Cheers & good golfing!

Warberg tops the high scores at Bangpra

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, March 24, Bangpra – Stableford
This was one of those mornings that an organiser dreads. Half the players were going off to play in a matchplay and at the early morning meet at Bert’s players dropped out like flies, until at the end we were left with only three groups. Still, off we went to Bangpra where we had changed our Tee Time from 1000hrs to 1100hrs as it was 300 baht cheaper. Surprise was that we were not actually allowed to buy green fees etc until 1100hrs. I have not known this before. The course in addition was fairly empty.

Tuesday’s winners - Dick Warberg and Steve Hamstad with one of Bert’s helpers.

Off we went on time, well nearly, and it was immediately apparent that the fairways were good but once off them it was rock hard. It was the same all the way around, and incidentally the monkeys are still there in force. At the second green as I was chipping, my cart got attacked and anything loose disappeared. Fortunately I had locked away my wallet in the most inaccessible pocket, but still lost several items.
Round over it was into the restaurant for a quick rainbow ice-cream, still the best around, then back to Bert’s.
Back at Bert’s we were joined by the members of the ‘matchplay team’ who told us they had just won by 3 to 2 so it was a double take. The scores on the day were excellent and Brian Gabe who played with our group shot 37 points and was not in the winners.
So the winner with 39 points was Dick Warberg with Steve Hamstad close behind with 38 points.
Then the night developed into one of the best at Bert’s for a long time, not hindered in the least by the fact it was ‘The Reporters’ birthday, and the bell was heard to ring more than once. We also had several aspiring singers, so all the old songs came out.
Near Pins: Mashi Kenata, Dick Warberg, Brian Gabe
Friday, March 27, Plutaluang - Stableford
Another Friday at Bert’s after being off last week with most of our regular players playing in this year’s successful PSC Charity Classic.
This was going to be a bit of a hassle as we had to host the match play team from The German Swiss Golf Club (GSGC) plus provide a game for an unknown number of players just looking for a game this day. It actually settled down very well and we ended up with a full team of 10 to take on GSGC and only two of our regulars that showed up for a game.
After our breakfast we were off for an early 09:30 start on the North and West nines. The course was found in excellent condition and was not as crowded as the last few Fridays we had played there. Our two venerable golfers, John Vincent and Stan ‘Der Man’ Dare were off first. They were into a quick round until they ran into a 5-ball who took 5 holes to recognize that two were waiting and finally let them pass. Still, these two managed to finish in 3½ hours and sat down to food and brew in the club house.
The match play boys took a little longer and it was a close contest all the way with Tropical Bert’s coming out on top, 6-4, when our last two players out managed to win their games. The individual results are reported in the MBMG League column elsewhere in these sports pages.
Back at Bert’s burgers were provided to be washed down by tall cool ones and all confirmed that it had been a fine day and the GSGC will be looking for revenge at the rematch in a couple of months time.
And by the way, as we say good bye to John Vincent who is returning to Aussieland after his annual trip to The Land of Smiles, John won and Stan came in second!

Somyong shines on a hot day at Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

Another beautiful day this past Tuesday, March 24, as a field of Three Sisters faithful took to the greens starting at 0630. The pace of play moved quite well as there were several threesomes. The course was in pretty good shape with some of the greens being mowed as the players approached.
The sun came out and it got very warm, very fast. From the 4th hole par 3 onwards, the sun block came out and SPF 50 was the call of the day.
Finishing up in fine form was Somyong Ishii with a fine 40 points taking first place ahead of Herbie Ishinaga who came in with a very respectable 38. Paul Kraft came in with a 31 with everyone else trailing behind.
As usual Herbie provided his usual spicy hot and regular dogs. The Ishiis had plans that could not include a visit to Caddy Shack II and as a result we unfortunately have no picture of the winner.

MBMG Golf Matchplay League

Tropical Bert’s team celebrate following their win against The Outback Golf Bar.

Monday, March 23, Green Valley - The Golf Club 3½ v Angkana House 6½
At the unusually early start time of 8.42am there were several blurry eyed competitors and much yawning in evidence as the teams rolled up at Green Valley for this eagerly awaited match.
Now it is probably the fine food that Captain John Emmerson feeds his players at The Golf Club, but whatever the reason they certainly have their fair share of big hitters and it must have been quite daunting for some of the shorter hitting Angkana crew as they watched these guys launching their 300-yard missiles up the first fairway.
However Angkana have one or two big guns of their own, and it was 1-handicapper Marty Allred who led the challenge with a fine 3/2 victory win over Phil Mitchell, helped not least by a ‘monster’ 30-yard putt from the front to the back of the two tier sixth green for an unlikely half.
Mark Reid levelled it up for TGC with a 2/1 victory over Peter ‘bomber’ Harris and a 5/4 win for John McHugh over Stuart Gordon gave TGC the early lead before Ken McCarthy extended his fine match play record with a 2 up victory over Mark Wood.
Next up was Martin Todd against Clive Robinson with Clive feeling after five holes as if he should have stayed in bed as Martin raced into 3 hole lead, only to be pegged back to level by the turn. The back nine it would appear was a case of neither player wanting victory as they exchanged holes all the way to the last where a rare halved hole resulted in a squared match .
In the same four-ball, big hitter Simon Philbrook came up against the canny Irishman Hugh Byrne and a fine battle ensued with Hugh finally edging out the unfortunate Simon on the last hole after hitting a magnificent 9 wood shot over the bunker to the 18th green to secure his par and a one hole victory.
The Big Aussie Trevor Loersch continued his fine form with a hard earned 2/1 victory over the intrepid Jack Spencer whilst Captain John Emmerson did his bit for his team by inflicting a 7/5 defeat on Kris ‘The Iceman’ Helgasson.
Angkana s Bob ‘the raz’ Rasmussen fought back gamely after a shaky front nine to win on the last hole against Steve Mulberry and so it was left to the diminutive Arthur ‘Micky Mouse’ Barratt to rap up the match for his team with a 2 hole win over Gabriel Enright.
Back to The Golf Club then for a beer or two and some fine hospitality followed by another of Johns entertaining speeches and a good time was had by all.
Individual Results (The Golf Club first): Phil Mitchell (6) lost 3/2 v Marty Allred (1); Mark Reid (12) won 2/1 v Peter Harris (17); John McHugh (8) won 5/4 v Stuart Gordon (10); Mark Wood (8) lost 2 down v Ken McCarthy (12); Martin Todd (7) halved with Clive Robinson (7); Simon Philbrook (8) lost 1 down v Hugh Byrne (10); Jack Spencer (8) lost 2/1 v Trevor Loersch (9); John Emmerson (11) won 7/5 v Kris Helgasson (16); Steve Mulberry (9) lost 1 down v Bob Rasmussen (13); Gabriel Enright (22) lost 2 down v Arthur Barratt (20).
Tuesday, March 24, Pattaya C.C. - Outback Golf Bar 2½ v Tropical Bert’s 4½
Another miserable day in the MBMG league for the Outback Golf Bar as they went down to Tropical Bert’s at Pattaya Country Club.
Norm Martin had the PSC Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely reeling at the turn but Perry turned the tables on the back nine to win the match. Les Phillips was also up early in his match but couldn’t hold on. Mark Hurwood fought back from a poor start and from three down with four to play to gain a half with a very disappointed Hans Collett. On the brighter side, John Lawton gained an excellent 5 & 4 win over the affable Brian Downey and Jack got his revenge against Doug Good, after losing to him last year.
Individual Results (Outback first): John Lawton won 5 & 4 v Brian Downey; Norm Martin lost 2 down v Perry McNeely; Les Phillips lost 2 down v Paul Brown; Briany Christie lost 2 down v Scott Dobbins; Mark Hurwood halved with Hans Collett; Jack Moseley won 3 & 1 v Doug Good; Paul Quodomine lost 8 & 7 v Don Carmody.
Tuesday, March 24, Bangpakong - German-Swiss GC 8 v The Golf Club 5
First of all we have to say: What a golf course. You feel like you’re hitting the ball from a carpet. So it doesn’t matter that four greens were sanded. The whole course was in perfect condition and also the price is outstanding at 1,440 Baht (including green fee, caddy fee, cart and 100 baht voucher for food).
All the players had to fight the weather, it was hot and a lot of humidity was in the air. But I think at the end all were satisfied and this is the most imported thing.
From the start it was a close match and all the players tried to give the best for their team. The first few matches saw clear wins for the German-Swiss guys, but the second wave saw it turn over to the Golf Club and after 8 rounds it didn’t look too good for the German-Swiss-GC. But then the first seed player, Asaban Zion, gave a great performance with a clear win and the last player, Captain Harry Schuster came home with a 2 & 1 win over Paul Mades. This was the point needed for the draw and the German-Swiss-team earned it.
After the match the players retreated to the Deutsches Haus for some food and a few beers. Everyone on both sides is looking forward to the rematch.
Individual Results (German-Swiss first): Urs Stegmann won 3&1 v JJ Wright; Uwe Wegner won 4&3 v John McHugh; Thomas Kassemeier won 5&4 v Stev Mulberry; Andreas Wegener lost 3&4 v Jeff Calrow; Thomas Rechsteiner lost 4&5 v Claus Thomson; Hans Pickartz lost 3&4 v Garth Braun; Rüdiger Schäfer lost 5&6 v John Emmerson; Werner Eikmeier lost 4&5 v Jack Spencer; Zion Asaban won 4&3 v Martin Todd; Harry Schuster won 2&1 v Paul Mades.
Friday, March 27, Plutaluang - Tropical Bert’s 6 v The German-Swiss Golf Club 4
Tropical Bert’s met the German-Swiss Golf Club (GSGC) on the tough North and West nines at Plutaluang last Friday and both teams were chomping at the bit to get into the match and try to add to their point totals.
The course was in very good shape and was void of the usual Friday crowd. The team captains were in the first 4-ball out and in four hours were sat in the restaurant each with one win and anxiously awaiting the results of the following matches. The next 4-ball brought two wins for GSGC and they were up 3 -1 but Group 3 saw two wins for Bert’s to bring it back to all square. The following 4-ball walked in with a win for each side, so with two matches still on the course, it remained all square. The final four came thru the door and it was high fives all around for Bert’s as both of their players won their respective matches.
Back at Tropical Bert’s and over brews and burgers, the matches were cussed and discussed and plans made for the re-match in July. All involved appreciated the cooperation in getting the match scheduled and played in the spirit of the game.
Individual Results (Tropical Bert’s first): Scott Dobbins won 6 & 5 v Zion Asaban; Hans Collett lost 5 & 4 v Uwe Wegner; Anders Pedersen won 3 & 2 v Werner Eikmeier; Doug Good won 1 up v Thomas Kassemeier; Bob Benda won 2 & 1 v Thomas Rechsteiner; Perry McNeely lost 2 & 1 v Hans Pickartz; Joel Flor won 2 up v Andreas Wegener; Dick Warberg won 6 & 4 v Helmut Wolf; Peter Whitehead lost 3 & 1 v Harry Schuster; Don Carmody lost 2 & 1 v Jacky Tobler.
Friday, March 27, Crystal Bay - The Bunker Bar 4 v The Outback Bar 4
Very warm sunny weather welcomed the combatants at Crystal Bay and Jack Moseley decided the best way to approach the day was to top up the alcohol levels with a number of beers before and during the round. It might be the way to go as he beat the in form Tony Robbins by 3 & 2. Jack Robertson, who had won all 4 of his previous matches, lost to John Lawton 4 & 3.
William Macey was given 9 out of 10 for artistic impression when he disturbed a hornets nest and invented a new dance, gliding across the fairway with all the dignity he could muster to avoid these angels of pain. Harvey Samuel showed no sympathy however (shame on you Harvey), winning on the next hole. The Bunker were now three down but the old legend, John Hughes, pulled one back with a steady performance.
Bob Philp, not to be outdone by his partner Jack, started with a few Heinekens before the game and forgot to stop. Crystal Bay would welcome Bob anytime having sold more beers than ever before, but it made no difference to his performance for he beat Paul Smith 2 & 1. The Outback Bar were now 4 to 1 up in the match and needed only a half to win.
Allan Sullivan had a steady win against Bob Linberg winning 4 & 2; newcomer Geoff Cox had three birdies in his win over Jean Guy Gaudet and it was now just 4–3 to the Outback. Then the old soldier Mashi Kaneta came in with a 3 & 2 win to achieve a half for his team.
Individual Results (The Bunker first): Tony Robbins lost 3 & 2 v Jack Moseley; Jack Robertson lost 4 & 3 v John Lawton; William Macey lost 3 & 1 v Harvey Samuel; John Hughes won 3 & 1 v Kevin Moraghan; Paul Smith lost 2 & 1 v Bob Philp; Allan Sullivan won 4 & 2 v Bob Lindborg; Mashi Kaneta won 3 & 2 v Bernie Segrave; Geoff Cox won 3 & 2 v Jean Guy Gaudet.

Shot of the week for Danny

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday’s winners: Trevor Bennett, Dean Rice,
Danny Wheelan and John Merritt.

Barry Hooper
Danny Wheelan made what has to be TRGG shot of the week on his way to a win at Green Valley on Saturday. I have it on good authority that his putt on the par-four 7th was the kind of shot that you see but do not believe. He had a putt from some twenty feet for par with a huge looping right to left borrow requiring him to literally have his back to the hole as he struck the ball. I also understand that his fellow players in the group were left standing with mouths wide open in total awe when the shot went straight into the cup. Well done Danny!
This week had its share of high scores, particularly at Greenwood on Tuesday when four scores over forty were recorded: Keith Marsden won Div 2 with 43. Phil Battah came second with 42, the boss himself Fergus had one of his best games in some time for a 42 to take Div 1, and John Merritt was second with 41.
Monday, March 23,
Crystal Bay B& C - Stableford
1st Peter Morris (24) 38pts
2nd Mike Sanders (9) 36pts
3rd Ito Akitoshi (9) 36pts
4th Roger Wilkinson (14) 35pts
Crystal Bay was the venue on Monday and the turnout was a little low, mainly due to many of our regulars returning home, but this allowed some names to rise to the top that have not been seen of late.
The winner on the day was Peter Morris with 38 points and Akitoshi Ito lost out to Mike Sanders on count back for second spot after both finished with with 36. Roger Wilkinson took the final podium place 1 point further back.
Only the one ‘2’ recorded and that went to Robert Wood.
Tuesday, March 24,
Greenwood - Stabledford
Div 1
1st Fergus Brennan (11) 42pts
2nd John Merritt (14) 41pts
3rd Ito Akitoshi (9) 37pts
4th John Pegrum (12) 37pts
Div 2
1st Keith Marsden (17) 43pts
2nd Phil Battah (16) 42pts
3rd Alan Evans (25) 40pts
We had a great turnout at Greenwood on Tuesday to play the A & B nines, so two full divisions. The course was, as always, in tip top condition and this led to some excellent scores on the day when you had to have forty plus to be in the running.
Fergus, who seems to have shaken off his recent leg and back problems, came out firing on all cylinders to take Div 1 with 42 points. I guess Poopay and the staff at the Travellers Rest must be feeding him the right stuff again. Keith Marsden topped his score by one at 43 for his Div 2 win.
Five 2’s were recorded by Fergus Brennan, Charlie Chance, John Pegrum, Tony Perry and Mike Rushant.
Thursday, March 26, Phoenix Mountain & Lakes - Stableford
Div 1
1st Mike Rushant (13) 35pts
2nd Bill McGarvie (11) 33pts
3rd Phil Battah (15) 32pts
Div 2
1st Robert Wood (17) 34pts
2nd Peter Ring (21) 33pts
3rd Lars Strom (19) 33pts
We had yet another very big turnout today, so two divisions again for a stableford competition over the Mountain & Lakes course at Phoenix.
As always the course was in excellent condition but there was to be a sting in the tail by way of some fairly brisk breezes whipping around the fairways which proved to be somewhat testing for all taking part, and this was reflected in the scores returned with many a player not thinking they were anywhere in the running and failing to return for the presentation. Out of the top three in each division, only two were actually present to receive their accolades. A bit sad that.
Mike Rushant took Div 1 with 35 points followed by Bill McGarvie at 33. Div 2 plaudits went to Robert Wood on 34 points, with Peter Ring taking second on count back 33.
There were no 2’s so the bell was rung for the benefit of the few that returned.
Saturday, March 28,
Green Valley - Stableford
Div 1
1st Danny Wheelan (15) 42pts
2nd Dean Rice (15) 39pts
3rd John Merritt (14) 38pts
Div 2
1st Tristan Gilbert (16) 34pts
2nd Greg Mason (17) 33pts
3rd Andy Galvin (18) 32pts
Saturday was another of our weekend visits to Green Valley. However, next week we have to change venues (still to be arranged) because a major comp is taking place.
This was Danny Wheelan’s day for sure with forty-two points in the A division and a full three points up on Dean Rice in second. He played some exceptional golf, an example of which was after his twenty foot looping putt (see report above) for par at the seventh, he promptly birdied the eight and pared the ninth. It was all the talk by his fellow players back at the Travellers. (NB Danny rang the bell for all in attendance). His handicap has now been cut two to thirteen. Many players thought is should have been more.
Division two went to Tristan Gilbert with thirty-four points and Greg Mason took second on thirty-three.
Four 2’s came from Mod Chaviraksa, Guy Fraser, Trevor Bennett, and John Merritt.

Paul and Barry take the Monthly Medals

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 23, St Andrews - Stableford
A Flight (0-13)
1st Bob Lamond 36pts
2nd Tony Barritt 36pts
3rd Barry Winton 35pts
B Flight (14+)
1st Serge Straeten 39pts
2nd Yukio Kikuchi 38pts
3rd Doug Campbell 35pts
Another large turnout required the formation of two divisions with the cut coming at 13 and below for the first division which was led in by Bob Lamond with a level par round against his five handicap. Tony Barritt had to settle for second after Bob returned a better count back of 17 to Tony’s 15. Barry Winton filled out the final place with a one over gross 77 one shot behind the leaders.
Serge Straeten lit up the course with a very good round of three under handicap to deny Yukio Kikuchi, who had high hopes of returning to Japan with a win, but he just missed out to Serge’s fine round by a shot. Doug Campbell was a very popular winner of third place to round out the podium.
There were no 2’s in either division but following his success of a hole-in-one last week and his eminent departure for a few weeks stay in Blighty, Danny Greer donated a bottle of Johnny Walker Black for the longest putt on the 12th which was won very conveniently by Paul Taylor who had been the loser, with a 2, to Danny’s feat last week.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new members Dan Owen and Ken Carron and also welcomed back Terry Hodgekiss, Darrell Paull and Markku Tynell. There were also farewells to the Yukaki tour members, Yukio Kikuchi and Kaneo Watanabe.
Wednesday, March 25,
Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight (0-13)
1st Russell Exley 36pts
2nd Tony Barritt 35pts
3rd Barry Winton 35pts
4th Yasuo Suzuki 35pts
B Flight (14+)
1st John Harris 38pts
2nd John Teague 38pts
3rd Grant Cadell 33pts
4th Mike Sanders 33pts
Once again a large contingent left The Haven for a good day’s golf at the Green Valley complex, this time taking on the Green Valley eighteen, and once again needing to form two divisions with the cut again coming at 13 and below.
Russell Exley returned to somewhere near his previous form as he took the first division with a level round against handicap by a shot from Tony Barritt, who is making a habit of earmarking second place, and Tony being successful this time in the count back winning by a margin of 18 to Barry Winton’s 17 and Yasuo Suzuki’s 16.
John Harris cleaned up in the second division with a better count back of 20 as John Teague could only manage 18 after a hot starting nine. Grant Cadell and Mike Sanders were five back with Grant getting a better count back of 20 to Mike’s 17.
Richard Dobson scored a ‘2’ in the second division to sweep the pool including the roll-over, whilst Alan Griffiths and Dave Stockman, with two, shared the first division roll-over pot in the first division.
Prior to the prize giving there were farewells for Danny Greer, Rodney Hayes, and Mike Sanders following the welcome backs for Richard Dobson, Johnny Clements, and at long last, after several years of prevarication, Russell Finch, who claimed not to have played since last turning out at the Haven in February 2004, and after studying his return for the day everyone was surprised that it had only been that long and immediately sent a request in to the handicap committee for a humane revue and a serious upward revision for future competitions.
How things have changed, it only seems like yesterday, when Russell was assisting Serge Straeten with his swing, and then watching him drive Russell’s brand new metal three wood several yards down the range, having used it as an alignment aid, and videoing the whole sorry affair and the new shape of the club for posterity.
Friday, March 27, Phoenix Blue Tees – Monthly Medal
A Flight (0-15)
1st Barry Winton net 72
2nd Russell Exley net 75
3rd Trevor Schirmer net 76
B Flight (16+)
1st Paul Hartley net 74
2nd David Spendley net 74
3rd Johnny Clements net 74
As usual the monthly medals were played from the blue tees at Phoenix over the Ocean and Mountain courses with the divisions being made at 15 and below in the first division and 16 and above in the second. The weather stayed fine but strong winds made scoring more difficult than normal although the greens were again in top class condition, playing fast and true.
Barry Winton used his local knowledge, as a member, to cruise round in level par but two under the 74 CSS of the day to ensure a further cut in handicap for the ensuing week. Russell Exley again had a pleasing day, just edging Trevor Schirmer into third spot by a single shot as Trevor just faded at the end.
Paul Hartley took his first Monthly Medal of the year to ensure that he will again be competing in the year end finals for the gold and silver medals and is hoping this time to take one of the coveted prizes away this time. Paul Just squeaked in ahead of David Spendley by the narrowest of margins of 0.4 of a stroke on the back six having been level at 34 each on the back nine. Johnny Clements was also unlucky after two nines of 34 a piece which cost him a higher spot but netted third place.
Barry Winton had the only ‘2’ in the first division whilst Rod Howett did the same in the second division.
Back at The Haven The Doc welcomed back Alan Pilkington before presenting the prizes.

Big shake up in the standings as top 5 all lose

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Yeow, Noodle Russell, Graham, Kaew & Nok Kennedy.

Noodle Russell bowled a 225 game and 512 series but her Green Chilli team still lost all four points to Jack Tar who moved up from seventh place to third.
Lek Reaper bowled a 520 series and Jon Tellefsen a 516 to lead Canada to a three point win over Brother D, and Antero Ronkainen bowled a 511 series to lead Bavaria to a three point win over Sabai Sabai Friday. Sabai dropped from third to fifth and Bavaria moved from eighth to sixth place.
Indiana took all four points from VFW Post 9876 and moved up to fourth from tenth place. La Montgomery rolled a 550 series for Indiana and Kaew had a 539 for VFW who dropped from fifth to just one off the bottom.
Swethai had good bowling by all three bowlers as Aht Johansson bowled a 521 series, Maliny Pasakit a 509 and Mio Aamlid a 508 as they won all four points from Café Ole. P.K. bowled a 545 for Café Ole who dropped from fourth to ninth place. Lanes 15 & 16 must have been a bit dry as only Tue Pettae, bowling as a Pacer, managed to bowl a good 561 series. Graham who was also bowling as a Pacer had games of 220 and 202 for a 571 series.

Double landslides shock Pattaya softball Sunday

Diego strikes up a hitter’s pose while Rocky looks on unimpressed.

Diego Wells
Apologies go out to my fellow softballers for the bittersweet overtones of this article. For the first time since I have had the pleasure of rounding the bases on a Sunday afternoon, Pattaya softball saw two lopsided and disappointing matches.
I was a part of the team that won both games, but the excitement was spoiled by the fact that from the get go, the teams were not drawn up fairly. It seems that the process of organizing the 2 squads is flawed. Our two elder statesmen, Alan and Perry are often given the task of placing players, and the process seems to have broken down.
Perhaps it is Perry’s passion for winning, which borders on obsession that has caused it. Maybe it is Alan, who has lost his ability to adequately analyze talent that has caused it. Perhaps, it was the wrong trades made at the right time, or perhaps it was just sheer luck that caused the blowouts that occurred last Sunday at Pattaya softball. In the end, Pattaya softball saw 2 landslide victories of 10 runs each for Team Perry.
Game 1
Perry’s team of sluggers started slowly, with 3 of the first 4 batters (Perry, Nick and Diego) grounding or popping out. Alan’s ragtag team got off to a flying start with 3 runs scored by hits from Sriracha John, Shawn, John Mchugh, Scotty, J.J., and Alan himself. Unfortunately for Alan’s squad, their bats faded fast, and they were unable to score another run until the seventh and final inning.
Greg, our resident fly boy who has returned from the friendly skies, was the catalyst to team Perry’s victory. He arrived in the third inning and helped the team ignite with 5 runs. Paco, another flyer of the friendly skies, played on Alan’s team and seemed to lose his softball skills at customs.
Perry’s team scored in every inning from the third onwards, and eventually won the game easily, 14-4. Second baseman John Eden was player of the game, for hitting many key doubles, and singles, as well as being solid on defence.
Game 2
In the second game Greg was swapped for Paco to try and even the teams. However, both are co-MVPs in my book, as they unleashed the Grey Goose for my birthday, and most of the rest of the story is a blur to me. Due to the seriousness of softball Sunday, and the loyal readers’ constant demands to be informed, I will reluctantly continue.
After the long intermission between games where hamburgers and sausages were munched, and Grey Goose was guzzled, Alan’s team batted first and scored one run on a double by John Mchugh that knocked in John C.F. Again, Alan’s team of ailing athletes could not get their bats going. Perry’s team found a way for even Paco to get a hit, and scored 7 in the first, and 5 in the second to win the game 12-2. The game was called after just 3 innings, as the 10 run mercy rule was put into place, and everyone got out of the sun to share a drink or three.
It wasn’t the most competitive softball Sunday we have seen, but it still was a good time had by all. We continue to welcome all newcomers to our pseudo-athletic soiree on Sundays. All it takes is a bit of knowledge or desire, and the ability to find our Jomtien ‘field of dreams’ (down Sukhumvit to Soi 85, turn left if coming from Pattaya, follow it 7km, turn left on Soi 85 and follow that 1km, look for field on your left). We look forward to seeing you there this Sunday.