Pattaya City F.C. update

MBMG International League 2009

Paul Frain
Pattaya City F.C. beat Les Gaulois 2-1 on March 14 and the following week City took on their big rivals Cosmos but were well beaten, losing 4-0. This defeat put a dent in their championship hopes and a subsequent 1-1 draw against the unbeaten Londoner did not help their chances any further.
City then played Anatolia on April 4 and lost 1-0, which meant that a result had to be achieved last Saturday in the return match against The Londoner. The game was played at a fast pace and during the first half chances were missed by both sides. The Londoner did score to make it 1-0 at half time, but City replied back with a powerful header by Philip Walter and then went ahead with a brace of goals from Emmanvel Tshuma to secure an excellent 3-1 win.
Both sides knew how important this result was and the game was end to end, with the final result going City’s way. This was the first game The Londoner had lost this season and it takes City back to the top of the table on equal points, but with the Londoner still having a game in hand.

Xiu Deshun upsets the form book to win chess title in Pattaya

PM reporters
Unseeded Xiu Deshun of China played some sensational chess to win the Thailand Open Chess Championship 2009 held April 1-6 at the Aisawan Resort & Spa in Wongamart Beach, Pattaya.

Xiu Deshun (left) poses with the champion’s trophy alongside runner up Elshan Moradiabadi (center) and third placed Nigel Short (right).

Xiu, whose rating is 2422, performed at a Super GM level (2730) to capture the championship and triumph over a strong field of 193 players from 36 countries including 9 Grand Masters. GM Elshan Moradiabadi from Iran was second with top seed England’s Nigel Short in third. Xiu and Short played to a draw in an earlier round.
Sponsored by the Thai Chess Association, a total of 400,000 baht was presented in prize money with the winner receiving approx. 100,000 baht for his efforts.

Sailors rate Coyote Cup as most fun in years

Kipsan Beck
Racing in the rain and a range of winds from nothing to too much, Pattaya’s sailors rated the Coyote Cup highly as the lead in regatta as the prestigious Top of the Gulf Regatta draws near.

‘El Coyote’ was best of class at the recently completed Coyote Cup.

El Coyote is the largest keeler racing at Ocean Marina, owned and skippered by Gary Baguely whose yacht training school Yachtpro has seen many new sailors joining the fleet over recent years.  As a thank you to all other sailors, his crew arranged a weekend of racing and an end of event BBQ over the same long weekend as Ocean Marina hosted a large party out front.
On the water, Gulf Charters by Ray Waldren won the Platu racing from Trent Petterson on The Fox.  In the bigger boats, newcomer Lee Vino wrapped up third with some impressive speed at times; the always consistent Magic Roundabout of David Bell took second and El Coyote won in their own weekend event.  Suansanook raced unopposed in the cruising class, while Bob Garner came a narrow second to the big catamaran of Kirati Assakul called Sonic.
The Top of the Gulf Regatta is now just 2 weeks away starting April 30, with more than 300 boats likely to be joining the racing.  Spectators are welcome to join.
OMYC Sailing is a non profit organization formed to promote keelboat sailing at Ocean Marina, Jomtien.  Racing is held usually on the 2nd weekend each month, and is supported through sponsorship from Raimon Land, Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Gulf Charters, Bluewave Water Sports and Simpson Marine.  Beginners and experienced sailors are welcome to join racing, training and cruising, with places usually available. 

Mountain bikes take off at MTB Challenge 2009

Sawittree Namwiwatsuk
The Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge 2009 reached a conclusion amid clouds of dust and bouncing bikes on Sunday, April 5. The competition was presided over by Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantawaranont and was organized by Manote Nongyai, Member of Pattaya Council.

The Mountain Bike races were all fiercely competitive.
Aimed to help boost tourism, promote biking and good health, the event was run at the Eastern Sports Center at Chayapruk Soi 2 which offered an ideal course with the hilly terrain providing a real challenge to all the riders.
The competition was divided in to two categories and 28 sub-categories. Grade A included a Men’s Open, Women’s Open, age groups of 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54 and 55 and over, while the Grade B competitions included an Under 10, under 13, under 15 boys, under 15 girls, under 18 boys, under 18 girls, Men’s Open, Women’s Open, and age groups of 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, and 60 and over.
The Grade A Men’s Open winner was Attapan Sangnoi from Peuan Pan Na Pa Bike, Jaran Kanto from Windler Asia Bike came second and Theera Samart was third.
In the Grade A Women’s Open, the winner was Sirapassorn Chartkamnerd from the management organization of the Prachinburi team. Piyanat Srisuwan came home in second place and Patcharee Kowanich was third.

The undulating course provided for a real test of the riders’ skills.

New sailing club launches in Pattaya

The Pattaya Blue Water Sailing Club has recently come to fruition through the efforts of organizer Nathan Russo. The objective of the club is to create a forum where “sailboat” owners and those who like to sail but do not own boats can meet. The club will act as a focal point where members can join together to sail their own craft or charter sailing yachts.
It is anticipated that much of the sailing and weekend trips will be in and around Pattaya and the offshore islands area. However, trips further a-field such as the Koh Chang archipelago and the Andaman Sea area around Phuket and Krabi might also be considered.
The club will sponsor a monthly cocktail party to give the members an opportunity to meet one another and plan their future sailing events.
For further information about the Pattaya Blue water Sailing Club contact Nathan Russo at ncrusso1@gmail or call 085 275 6724 or go to website www.southeastasia-tours.com and click on “sailing club”.

Strong arm tactics win the day

Vimolrat Singnikorn
The extra strong arm of defending champion Wittaya Meemui, 32, from Bangkok once again wrestled him the 15,000 baht first prize at the 6th International Arm Wrestling Championships held April 4 at the Royal Garden Plaza in Pattaya.

Wittaya Meemui (right) attempts to strong arm Komsan Kerdsuk in the final of the 85-95kg category.
Wittaya won first place in the 85-95 kg category and lifted off a trophy as well as the prize money. Former champion Wirat Payupak upgraded himself to compete in the Open category and was successful there.
The Thailand Bodybuilding Association (TBBA) and the TAT Pattaya Office co-operated to organize this strong-arm showdown with the purpose of promoting the sport of arm wrestling and also give a boost to Pattaya tourism in the process.

Wittaya (left) is all smiles after retaining his title.
Supadit Maneeratcharatsri, Managing Director of the Royal Garden Plaza, said the five previous competitions held had been very successful, attracting both Thai and foreign spectators and competitors.
A new junior arm wrestling category was introduced for this year’s event and, importantly, the spectacle received direct broadcast on Sophon Cable TV with viewers being invited to be part of the judging for “the perfect muscle” competition.
The competition was divided into 75 kg, 75-85 kg and 85-95 kg categories and the new open category for all wrestlers under 95 kg.
The 85-95 kg category saw a titanic struggle between the previous year’s finalists Wittaya and Komsan Kerdsuk in the best of three bouts. Wittaya used his experience and not inconsiderable strength to win two of the rounds and once more capture the title.
Other winners at the event were: Under-75 kg, Ratanachat Kongngern; 75-85 kg Ronachai Chitchamnong; and Open category Wirat Payupak. All the winners received 15,000 baht each plus trophies. “The muscle perfect” award meanwhile went to the rather aptly sounding “Hammer.”

Peppermint Palace take out beach soccer championships

The victorious Peppermint Palace team with the champions’ trophy.

Ariyawat Nuamsawad
The Peppermint Palace team asserted their position as the kings of beach soccer with a thrilling 4-2 victory over rivals Lung Sawai in the final of the Pattaya Beach Football Championships held over the weekend April 4-6 at the all purpose stadium in Jomtien.

Peppermint Palace go on the offensive against Lung Sawai in the final.
With the slightly cooler weather, both teams started the final aggressively and the Lung Sawai team went into the game as slight favourites due to the presence in their ranks of several experienced players from the Thai Navy. However, the Peppermint team proved to be too strong for them on the day and were deserved winners of the champions trophy and the 8,000 baht first prize. Runners up Lung Sawai took home 5,000 baht for their efforts in getting to the final.
The battle for third and fourth positions was fought out between the Mohammad team and Siam Football Club: Mohammad team easily ran out 7-3 winners to take third place and 3,000 baht, while the Siam team won 2,000 baht.
In the Under-16 category, another Mohammad team proved to be dominant with a win over the Mike Football Club team in the final. The Mohammed juniors were granted 6,000 baht for first place with 4,000 baht going to the beaten finalists. Huay Yai team came third, winning 3,000 baht.
Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantawaranont and Pisai Panomwan Na Ayutthaya, Pattaya Mayor Advisor, awarded the trophies to all the winners and finalists.

Ka shoots sparkling round at Emerald

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, April 6, - Royal Lakeside
The Bunker Boy’s set off towards Bangkok for a Stableford competition at Royal Lakeside but with dark clouds in the sky there was a strong chance of rain. They never got further than half way to the course when the heavens opened and it became obvious there would be no golf that day, so they did an about turn and headed back to town for some “alternative” sport! Ah well … T.I.T.

Geoff Parker celebrates with Tuk following his win at Eastern Star.

Wednesday, April 8, The Emerald - Medal
With thunder clouds circling the course it was feared that another cancellation was on the cards, but the gods smiled on the golfer’s today as they only had to put up with a few spots of rain here and there during the Medal competition.
Korean Brus Ka was the star of the show today, winning with a three-under par round and claiming two near pin prizes to boot. Roger Kidd was runner up a couple of shots behind, then came regulars Tony Robbins and Geoff Hart in third and fourth place respectively.
1st Brus Ka (16) net 69
2nd Roger Kidd (9) net 71
3rd Tony Robbins (13) net 75
4th Geoff Hart (21) net 77
Near Pins: Paul Smith, Geoff Cox and Brus Ka (2).
Friday, April 10, Eastern Star - Stableford
Playing Stableford today at Eastern Star the greens were a bit on the slow side but that aside the course was in pretty good nick. Geoff Parker found a bit of form to win today with a respectable 35 points, one ahead of Geoff Hart who got in the frame again and Don McPherson claimed third place after beating Mashi Kaneta on a count back.
1st Geoff Parker (14) 35pts
2nd Geoff Hart (hcp 21) 34pts
3rd Don McPherson (21) 33 pts
Near Pins: Tony Robbins, JJ Harney and Kevin Dunne (2).

The Aberdonian invasion lights up Greenwood

Gamble comes up trumps at Pattana

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, April 6, Eastern Star – Stableford
Chakri Dynasty day and a public holiday, so with higher prices at all the courses we decided to play Eastern Star where the members can sign in guests at a reasonable price. We had a 10.20am tee off and as always everyone was there well before hand, and the first group went out bang on time.
In his last game with us before his departure back to Canada, Jean Bruneau finished third in division 1 with 34 points, Mikael Andersson was second on 36 and the winner with 37 points was Michael Dige. In form Miss Nom took the top podium position in division 2 with 36 points, her other half Ken Foster was second just 1 point behind and in third place was Neil Gamble on 31.
In the 2’s competition today, Miss Nom secured the only one in division 2 with a shot on the 13th hole that finished just three inches from the cup; the old man would have gone mad if she had holed it, the bell would have been ringing all night long at Siam Cats. In division 1 Terry Cowell also birdied the same hole to become the sole winner. There were no near pins today as the field was just under the minimum number of 24 players.
Wednesday, April 8,
Pattana G.C. – Stableford
This was our first visit here from some considerable time and we were enticed back by the green fee reduction negotiated by the IPGC for group bookings, so we responded with seven groups out today.
The B course was closed so we started on the A and followed with the C. Heavy rain overnight or the previous day had left the fairways sodden so we employed the pick, clean and place ruling after the first hole which proved to be the right decision for the day.
There was only a 400yard differential in the yardage between the men’s tee and the ladies yellow tees, but it looked a lot tougher than that for them today.
In the stableford competition Peter Seward beat Arvo into third place with a 17/11 back nine count back after they both finished with 29 points. In second place was Andy Oz with 32 points and the winner of division 1 with 33 was Keith Hector.
A fantastic 38 points on this course won the day for Neil Gamble in division 2. He was followed in by Gordon Everingham with 34 in second and in third place came William Chang with 33 points.
Keith Hector and Heukki birdied the 2nd and 7th holes on the C course to share the 2’s purse in division 1 while there was a rollover in division 2 to Eastern Star on Friday.
Near pins went to Heukki, Dave Ross, Tom Herold, Miss Nom, Andy Oz and Tony Sawers.
Friday, April 10, Eastern Star – Stableford
Thursday afternoon and another public holiday announced so quite a few cancellations overnight, but upon arrival at Eastern Star they still charged our group the normal rate.
Andy Oz won the stableford competition with 37 points ahead of Roy Thornton on 34 in second place and Rick Newman in third on 33 after beating Karl Flood on a 20/16 back nine count back.
Yet again there were no nearest the pins due to the numbers playing and no 2’s recorded in either division.

Roger signs off in style

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

(Left to right): Roddo, Ian Campbell, Ian Wheeldon, Mike Jackson and Paco.

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, April 7, Pleasant Valley (White tees) - Stableford
Taking up Pleasant Valley’s rain checks from a week earlier we returned to and enjoyed our golf at this venue. The rain held off until we had completed our rounds but it didn’t half come crashing down during the return journey to Pattaya.
In the A Division (handicaps 14 and below) Roger Kidd rounded off his visit to Pattaya before returning to UK with a fine winning round of 77 gross and 41 points. Ken Little, Ian Wheeldon and David Clamp were second, third and fourth with 32, 32 and 31 points respectively.
In the B Division (handicaps 15 and up) yours truly kept it together and came in with 39 points followed by Mick Benton, Willy Nachbur and Dennis Jaycock with 31, 31 and 29 points respectively.
Near pin bonuses were won by Ken Little, yours truly, Willy Nachbur and Ian Wheeldon. Somehow the marker for the longest first putt on the 18th green became misplaced and the resulting confusion rendered this amusing part of our competition null and void.
Aka O’Reilly couldn’t be with us today. It was his wedding anniversary last Sunday and his wife had earlier been hinting to Aka what she would like as a present. She had said, “I would like something that goes from 0 to 200 in about three seconds, is red and has chrome trim.” Aka took the hint and bought his wife some bathroom scales. The doctors say Aka’s plaster cast will come off in about two weeks but he will probably have a limp for much longer.
Thursday, April 9, Plutaluang N & W (White tees) - Stableford
The average score for the group of 28.5 points this day underlines how tough Navy’s North and West courses are with the ‘cobra’ stream again eating plenty of golf balls.
Ian Wheeldon’s continued consistency put him on top of the leader board with 37 points. Mike Jackson came in second with 34 after a count back that dropped Ian Campbell into third spot, although Ian had a consoling near pin bonus on N3. Roddo and Paco rounded off the podium with 33 and 32 points respectively. Other near pin bonuses went to Dennis Jaycock, Roddo and Willy Nachbur who also sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green.
This was Paco’s last round with us this trip before he returns to UK to grow his Summer veggies and canvass support for the Tories. We look forward to his return.
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.

Dunne romps home by six

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Bill Knight, Derek Brook, Kevin Dunne, Dick Warberg and TC back at Bert’s.

Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, April 7, Pattana G.C. - Stableford
There was much excitement amongst the Bert’s crowd this Tuesday since PSC’s Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely had arranged for very attractive rates at one of our favourite courses: Pattana. Our numbers were augmented by recruits from the Cafe Kronborg group, whose captain has gone home to America for a month.
Our own captain was particularly pleased with the course layout, because its wide fairways enabled him to slice and hook his way along without the usual walk in the woods. This was reflected in his good score and that of many other players, including our reporter no less.
When we arrived it appeared that there were very few other golfers on the course. We played A and C, thereby avoiding that very treacherous hole B1, which has the water along both sides of the fairway and a required second shot over water to reach a tricky elevated green. Most of the golfers were ecstatic that our captain had chosen to play off the shorter yellow tees, which on the odd par 3 were co-located with the ladies’ tees.
The greens looked like they hadn’t been manicured in several days and were accordingly slow, which oddly helped our reporter and the rather svelte Kevin Dunne putt somewhat better than normal.
As the afternoon wore on, large menacing clouds appeared over the hills. The last few groups were caught in a cloudburst, which hurt their scores and gave advantage to the early foursomes. Our correspondent carefully nursed his score so that it wouldn’t threaten his ample handicap and was able to squeak by into first place in the B Flight. Kevin, on the other hand, had a gaping lead over the rest of A Flight, and subsequently suffered a cut in his handicap.
We had an eventful ride back to Bert’s through the rain in Keith Phillips’ old SUV, whose sunroof leaks, with the drip-drip interrupted our napping. Our captain remarked that we needn’t had taken showers back at the clubhouse. As we reached Bert’s the sun returned and the awards were made to the days’ victors.
A Flight (0-15)
1st Kevin Dunne 42pts
2nd Anders Pederson 36pts
3rd Derek Brook 35pts
c/b Brian Wilkinson 35pts
B Flight (16 up)
1st Thomas Cotton 38pts
2nd Dick Warberg 36pts
3rd Bill Knight 35pts
Near Pins: Scott Dobbins (2), Ted Morris (2).
Long Putts: Kevin Dunne, TC.

Stubbs claims narrow victory at Emerald

PSC golf from the Beaver Bar & Grill

Friday, April 10, arrived hot and muggy after a good night’s rain which was sorely needed by all the golf courses in the Ban Chang area. A good group of players arrived at the Emerald golf course in time for the 7:30 a.m. starting tee times reserved by golf director, Dennis Willett, for the Beaver Bar and Grill.
It was a day requiring the golf carts stay on the cart paths and a lot of walking to and fro. As the day progressed, the temperatures and humidity both increased but with minimal effect on the day’s scores as the golfers showed their true skills.
Rising to the top spot for the day was Geoff Stubbs with a very nice 39 stableford points. Second, third and fourth places were all in at 38 points with Tony Oakes claiming second spot in the count back. Paul Simpson was third leaving Dennis Willett as the fourth place in the count back.
Everyone retired back to the Beaver Bar and Grill afterwards to rehash the day’s good and bad shots.

Cannon shoots the lights out at Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, April 6, Burapha
Thirty-eight Outbackers headed off to the usual Monday venue and although a holiday, an excellent rate had been agreed. Not that it made too much difference as the skies opened up as yet another mega thunderstorm ensued, halting the golf in it’s tracks as the first group reached the 9th hole. So heavy was the rain, that the main entrance to Burapha turned into a lake making the road virtually impassable and the security staff had nothing better to do than catch the quite sizeable fish seen swimming about.

Joe presents his trophy to Alan Bishop after Wednesday’s Birthday Cup at Phoenix.
A lady driving at some speed, pushing a massive bow wave in front of her car was always bound to come a cropper, trying to drive through 3 feet deep of water. After travelling for no more than 100 yards, the car ground to a halt as the water reached half way up the door. Another had ventured out on her buggie which had already blown all its fuses, as she tried to push it home and summon the energy to push it over the obstinate speed bump; one wheel was all she could manage. So enough was enough, she stuck up her brolly and walked off leaving the cart to the mercy of the water, which by this time was already over the seat.
The Outback Golf Bar thanks the Burapha management for providing all of the Outbackers with either 9 or 18 hole rain checks.
Tuesday, April 7, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
There was a small group of 14 Outbackers playing at Pattaya Country Club this Tuesday, however there were players from 9 different countries in the 14; including five English, and a couple of Irish, Thai, French, Australian, Norwegian, American, and a Turnip. We welcome Walt Straub playing his first game with us and also a welcome back to the lovely Mam Morel and the not quite so lovely Jean Morel returning to the Outback.

Thursday’s ‘overall winner’ Eddie Beilby with B2.
The course had benefited from the recent rain, however, with no time to rake the bunkers they were a problem for those who had to play from them. Geoff Moodie once again had a shoe problem but a headband came to the rescue.
Back at the Outback as the results were announced by Capt’ Bob, it was clear that someone had enjoyed a successful round and received an immediate handicap cut- well done Nigel, 43 points with a blob! Following Nigel was Frank O’Neill, finding form with 39 points, Colour Sergeant Chad on 36, and the lovely Mam Morel was fourth with 34.
Just one ‘2’ from Suzy Lawton - who is now able to concentrate on her golf now that John is away!
Note: Nigel’s handicap has been cut from 22.9 to 20.6 and under the new PSC guidelines, will stay in effect until May 2. Frank’s handicap has also been cut from 17.6 to 16.7 ‘til 1April 18.
1st Nigel Cannon (23) 43pts
2nd Frank O’Neill (18) 39pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (19) 36pts
4th Mam Morel (17) 34pts
Wednesday, April 8, Phoenix - Stableford
It was Joe Mooneyham’s Birthday Cup at Phoenix and 45 Outbackers joined with him to celebrate his birthday, playing the Lake and Ocean nines of this lovely course.
Teeing off slightly ahead of time Capt’ Bob had a bit of a task on his hands; how to squeeze 12 groups into 10, as the Phoenix members had eight tee times starting at 12.26, right behind the Outback. It all went pretty smoothly just by playing ready golf and cutting the start intervals down to seven minutes, enabling the last group to get away just after 12.15.
The front nine was a little slow taking some two and a half hours, which included a couple of rain delays; but for once the thunder & lightning that threatened to disrupt the proceedings never materialised too near to the course.
Joe sponsored the near pin prizes that were won by Bob Lindborg (Lake 2), Charlie Sheppard (Lake 7), Mike Jones (Ocean 5) and Alan Bishop (Ocean 7). Back at the ranch whilst the result was being calculated, as is customary with these Outbacker Cup events, Joe treated his fellow players and the many friends that joined him at the bar to the ever popular cottage pie, and a variety of other dishes. He also baked his own birthday cake that was absolutely delicious. Well done Joe, Happy Birthday mate and have a good trip back to the US on Friday.
The winner was yet another new name for the honours board in the bar, Outbacker regular and Phoenix member, Alan Bishop, scoring an excellent 40 points with Joe’s long time playing partner, Rick Sharp, filling the runner up spot, on 38.
Welcome and good-bye to the Aussie boys that have played with the Outback over the past couple of weeks; as they return to Aus on Sunday and welcome today also to first time with the Outback, Mark Riggall who won Div B with 36, just pipping the ‘in form’ Kathy Doody on count back.
Overall
1st Alan Bishop (18) 40pts
2nd Rick Sharp (12) 38pts
Div A (0-13)
1st Neil Lavery (10) 38pts
2nd Ian Heddle (3) 36pts
3rd Kevin Taylor (6) 36pts
4th Bob Reid (13) 35pts
Div B (14-19)
1st Mark Riggall (17) 36pts
2nd Kathy Doody (17) 36pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (18) 33pts
4th Robbie Bennett (17) 33pts
Div C (20+)
1st Henry O’Brien (20) 37pts
2nd Steve Compton (22) 34pts
3rd Geoff Doody (20) 32pts
4th Gary Saunders (21) 31pts
Friday, April 10, Emerald - Stableford
It was another ‘Birthday Cup’ at the Outback Golf Bar and the second of the week; this time it was Bruce McAdam (aka B2) to celebrate his special day with his golfing friends.
There were 38 players competing in three divisions, as well as an overall winner, whose name will go alongside Bruce’s on the Outback Birthday Cup honours board.
The course was once again not busy and we were off just before our allotted time. Like most other courses the Emerald has benefited from the recent rain, and the greens were speedy.
As the results came in it was clear that most had found the course not that easy with just one player beating his handicap – and therefore winning Bruce’s Birthday Cup. That man was Lewiinski’s Captain, and our good friend Eddie Beilby (16) with 39 points.
There were some creditable scores in A Flight with Ian Heddle (3) and Capt Bob (6) both with 36 points. Ian also claimed two near pins and one of the only two ‘2’s – and Brian Maddox, who leaves today to return to Jersey, had one near pin and the other ‘2’. The remaining near pin, worth a ‘greyback’ provided by B2, was won by Mike Waltschek.
Chris Dopp powered his way round to win Div B with 34 points, just one ahead of the Colour Sergeant, with the Birthday Boy back in fourth. Mick Moore (23), despite playing out of his handicap by two due to a score entry error, still did enough to win Div C, albeit with the modest score of only 33 points. The entry has been corrected Mick, a ‘gross 64!’ to a net 64, and your handicap is 25.
Back at the ranch the Outbackers found that Bruce had deposited a ‘substantial’ sum behind the bar to ensure we all had a few before it was home time. Thanks Bruce!
Overall
1st Eddy Beilby (16) 39pts
Div A (0-12)
1st Ian Heddle (3) 36pts
2nd Bob Philp (6) 36pts
3rd Michael Waltschek (8) 33pts
Div B (13-19)
1st Chris Dopp (19) 34pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (19) 33pts
3rd Bernie Stafford (13) 32pts
Div C (20+)
1st Mick Moore (23) 33pts
2nd Henry O’Brien (20) 31pts
3rd Peter Gibson (26) 30pts
Monday, April 13, Burapha - Stableford
Songkhran fever was apparent amongst the caddies, as one in particular flicked some friendly water over one of the marshals. Getting away with no retaliation she pushed her luck too far trying it for a second time as he grabbed the offending bottle of water. After a friendly but wet scrap she was escorted round to the back of the starter hut and comprehensively doused much to the amusement of the waiting 33 Outbackers.
Holiday rate here again but a good deal for the Outback plus the rain-checks from last Monday kept the price sensible, albeit a little slow playing the A & B nines. Slow, only by usual Burapha standards on a Monday, at just over four hours.
Kerry Beck had his handicap clipped by Capt’ Bob from 12 to 10, after scoring 44 points at Laem Chabang last week but it wasn’t enough to stop him winning Div A with an excellent 36 points from Ian Heddle (35) and a three way tie for third all on 33, headed by Neil Lavery on count back.
After a recount in Div B, Mark Riggall was declared the winner with 39 from Bernie Stafford (37) and Dave Boran, returning to UK later this week, taking third with 33.
Jum returned to form with a fine 39 points that will attract a handicap adjustment (from 26.6 to 25.4) ahead of the upcoming Royal Hills trip; to win Div C from the big hitting Chris Dopp, edging out Ron Dickie, both on 36.
The Canadian pairing of Jean Guy & Bob Reid frightened the holders of the ‘Roo Cup’, namely Capt’ Bob & Rosco, going 2 up in the first four holes as neither Capt’ Bob (14pts) nor Rosco (8pts) could find their game on the front nine. But a rampant back nine by Rosco, who by then had mastered his new driver, sealed the victory for the holders 2 & 1, as Rosco racked up 23 points (one over gross 37).
There were four ‘2’s from Ian Heddle, Rosco, Mark Fisher & Mark Riggall.
Div A (0-12)
1st Kerry Beck (10) 36pts
2nd Ian Heddle (2) 35pts
3rd Neil Lavery (10) 33pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Mark Riggall (17) 39pts
2nd Bernie Stafford (13) 37pts
3rd Dave Boran (15) 33pts
Div C (18+)
1st Jum Karagit (27) 39pts
2nd Chris Dopp (19) 36pts
3rd Ron Dickie (20) 36pts

Per stars at Bangpra

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Thursday, April 9, Bangpra – Stableford
Weird times in Pattaya at the present: You have no idea who will turn up at the morning meeting at the bar, and usually very few do as we get closer to the ‘pleasure’ of getting wet. It seems just about all the golfers are out of town, and this is also the reason that the PSC monthly will not be held in April. Perry and the whole gang have gone off on a visit.

Per Olaf Baarli scored 41 points at Bangpra.

Getting back to this day’s golf, and Dave being away, it was left to ‘The Scribe’ to run it all on his own. Power at last! Dave having booked 7 groups, I thought it best to order a minibus, and of course had to cancel it when I saw the turnout.
So a small group set off for Bangpra after jumping in cars and all three of them zoomed down Sukhumvit to arrive at the course nice and early, and we were soon on the tee and allowed to get off straight away.
The course was dry and hard, but there was grass on most of the fairways along with some dry spots, but get off into the rough and be careful of your wrists. The bottom of one of my clubs got badly scraped hitting the ball in the rough. Yes I know you should not be there, but hitting the ball down the middle can be so boring, or so I am told by Mashi and Ted.
The scores were quite good, with one star. The winner was Per Olaf Baarli with 41 points ahead of Mashi Kenata in second with 34 points and Graham Buckingham in third with 33.
This was a really friendly group, but as is the case at present, half were due to leave in the next few days. Mind, ‘The Admiral’ will be back for the 21st. Please note there will be no golf from either The Cafe Kronborg or Tropical Bert’s until Tuesday April 21. Have a happy Songkran. T.T.F.N.

Benda takes the spoils at Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Maybe it was the April 7 blues or the threat of rain, whatever, the turnout was sparse to say the least. Some of the regulars were back in the US of A, one was nursing a sore shoulder, and yet another was seeing a heart doctor. Nonetheless, the diehards were on hand to challenge the Pattaya Country Club course.

Tuesday winner Bob Benda (left) with runner-up Bill Thompson.

And challenge is the right word. There seems to be some sort of fungus attacking the greens that the groundskeeper can’t get a handle on. Sending hundreds of workers out pulling errant weeds is not doing the trick. The giant mushrooms throughout the fairways make it a bit difficult to determine which are mushrooms and which is your ball.
Despite those problems Bob Benda came in first with 34 points, a bit low for Bob, with Bill Thompson right behind him with 33.
Herbie, recovering from a parking lot crash, still came through with his spicy and regular hotdogs. The usual beverages were on hand to cool the players down.

A strange game - golf

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday Winners: Mike Moreton, Larry Simpson,
Fergus Brennan and Ross Schiffke.

Barry Hooper
What a strange game golf can be at times. You have those days when despite all your skills everything goes totally wrong and days when you can do absolutely nothing wrong. So it was this week for a number of our members and friends.
Andy Galvin obviously found things all going his way at Bangpra on Tuesday when he bested the field by five clear points. At Phoenix on Thursday the day belonged to two new players to join us for what I think is the first time. In the first division Richard Brooker took the honours with a forty-one pointer and Kimberley Wilson, a new lady from Australia in our midst, took the second division with a forty-two pointer while a regular and also a previous winner from last week, Robert Wood, took the third also with a forty-two. On Saturday at Green Valley Fergus found his form (obviously the weight changes to his irons is working) with a win by just the one point over Larry Simpson and Dr Mike Moreton. But we dare not mention what his outing at Bangpra produced.
At the other end of the scale you have players like Donald Pearson. Billy Fitzgerald, Ray Allison and Alan Evans who would rather we forget the week. But that is the nature of the sport isn’t it.
By way of an advisement, will members and friends who join us please take note that I have been advised that in future a policy of first come- first served is being adopted when signing up for events with the TRGG. Sign up early and you will be teeing off early.
On Monday, April 6 it was decided to give our regular outing a miss this time mainly due to the fact that the majority of courses will up the anti on price on the holidays. When will they grasp that they are losing out by doing this.
Tuesday, April 7, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Andy Galvin Jr. (28) 42pts
2nd Tristan Gilbert (16) 37pts
3rd Mike Rushant (13) 36pts
4th Stuart Banks (23) 36pts
It was off to Bangpra on Tuesday and this proved the right choice for Andy Galvin Jr. (I was unaware that we had a senior). Andy played some outstanding golf and won by five clear points with a forty-two point return. Tristan Gilbert was second on thirty-seven and Mike Rushant third at thirty-six.
There were two 2’s on the day from Tristant Gilbert and Bill McGarvie both at the seventeenth. Andy was later advised that he had been cut by three on the day.
Thursday, April 9, Phoenix Lakes & Ocean - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Richard Brooker (4) 41pts
2nd Mike Sanders (10) 39pts
3rd Larry Simpson (10) 36pts
Div. 2
1st Kimberly Wilson (15) 42pts
2nd Frank Kelly (14) 40pts
3rd Tristan Gilbert (16) 38pts
Div. 3
1st Robert Wood (18) 42pts
2nd Stuart Banks (23) 39pts
3rd Peter Morris (23) 35pts
It was another of our regular Thursday outings to Phoenix (Lakes and Ocean) on April 9. As usual the course was in excellent condition (although again I did hear some rumblings about the greens being yet again a little inconsistent) and so another big turnout and three divisions.
Division Three went to Robert Wood with 42 points followed by Stuart Banks at 39 for second and Peter Morris in third at 35. Division Two was a win with forty-two points for Kimberley Wilson, a new lady to join us who insisted on playing with the men off the white tees. I have it on authority that she also reached the eighteenth in two and to my knowledge no one has achieved that in our outings before. Second was Frank Kelly at forty, with Tristan Gilbert taking third spot on thirty-eight.
Division One went to Richard Brooker with forty-one points. Mike Sanders came in second at thirty-nine and Larry Simpson was yet again third with thirty-six.
Five 2’s were recorded by Fergus Brennan, Dennis Stepura, John O’Leary, Alan Walker and Robert Wood.
Saturday, April 11, St. Andrews - Stableford
1st Fergus Brennan (11) 38pts
2nd Larry Simpson (10) 37pts
3rd Michael Moreton (25) 37pts
4th Mike Sanders (9) 36pts
5th Ross Schiffke (15) 35pts
Saturday saw a weekend visit to St Andrews as our regular course was not available. There was a fair turnout and this was to be a return to form for Fergus Brennan who took the day with a thirty-eight points, and just the one up on Larry Simpson (his visit in the week to Phuket must have been worthwhile) who beat Mike Moreton on the count back for second. Mike Sanders was fourth at thirty-six; he also won on count back over Ross Schiffe who was playing his last event before having to return back to Oz.
Only one ‘2’ on the day and that was from Mike Rushant

A touch of class at Emerald

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

Honouring a long-standing booking the Pattaya Golf Society visited the popular Emerald course at Ban Chang on Tuesday, April 7, to play a stableford competition.
The group were apprehensive on hearing recent rumours of a course in poor condition and were pleasantly surprised as the recent heavy rains had freshened up the fairways, making them eminently playable, and the greens were consistent, if a little slow. The skies were heavy throughout meaning there was little carry or run. It was going to be a tough day.
The two flights were divided at sixteen and under and rollovers in the 2’s in both flights added some spice to the day. In the second flight Emiel van der Wiele continued his recent good form with 31 points for third place whilst Richard Dobson held down second with 33 points. John Mason had a care-free round, playing some fine golf on the back nine and recorded the winning score of 36 points.
In the top flight Chris Voller, Wichai Tananusorn and Peter Ditz all recorded 34 points for a share of runner-up place whilst the Society’s current Champion, Dave Stockman, gave another master class on the tough track, firing gross 74 for 38 points and a classic win.
The top flight 2’s pot was shared by Stuart Thompson and Peter Ditz for their efforts on holes 13 and 15 respectively whilst the second flight rollover was subjected to a tie-breaking near-pin on the fifteenth and Emiel van der Wiele had the honour of receiving the prize.
Finally, at the end of a tough day, Richard Dobson received the Booby Bevy for leaving his membership card in the locker-room whilst enjoying some “aprés golf” nearby. The day had been full of surprises at Ban Chang, the course was reasonable and the sports day price almost represented value for money.
Hogg’s on a high
On Thursday, April 9, the Pattaya Golf Society abandoned the dry and dusty courses often found locally and visited the sumptuous course at Bangpakong Riverside for their monthly medal merit event. Walking the damp fairways gave a clue to its fine condition and should be a lesson for Bangpra, Emerald, Crystal Bay, et al, where there is water a-plenty as hazards but is not used as it could be, for irrigating the fairways.
With half the field made up of seasonal Aussie visitors the large group was divided into two flights at sixteen and under. In the top flight it was a very tight affair with Ray Jackson tying Peter Ditz for third place on a creditable net 72. They were only a shot adrift of the winning pair Chris Voller and Phil Knight, both acquitting themselves well with net 71.
In the second flight Tim Lazecki had his troubles in his round of net 74 but it was still good enough for third place and second was occupied by John Mason, playing very consistently this trip and firing an excellent net 70. The winner, by the proverbial country mile, was Aussie Ian Hogg, a winner last time out, and he emulated his score then with a phenomenal net 63. What’s happened to the guy who always performs only moderately whilst in Pattaya? His last two rounds with the PGS have seen him total fourteen under par!
Remarkably he did not feature in the 2’s event as Joop Medze took the top flight pot with a brace of birdies on the 13th and 16th, and Jim Proctor took the sole second flight birdie purse on the sixteenth.
The Booby Bevy went to organiser Len Jones as consolation for a pretty wearisome day which began with seven dropouts, later reduced to three, minibuses travelling to the wrong course, hastily rearranged playing groups and a mediocre round which never seemed to get started. It did not detract, however, from a splendid golfing day out at Bangpakong Riverside.
Dobson keeps
best ‘til last
Avoiding the hordes of invading red shirts, blue shirts, yellow and brown shirts, The Pattaya Golf Society took to Green Valley on Saturday, April 11, to play a peaceful stableford competition. As usual the course was in excellent condition and the competition got underway on time.
Local members Harry Riley and Ya Chaiyanont both recorded 35 points to take a share of fourth place, and preserve the matrimonial harmony in Ban Chang, whilst Andy Bardill, playing his final round this trip, went one better to share runner-up spot with Joop Medze. The winner was Richard Dobson who kept his best round until this, his final appearance before returning to the UK. His score of 39 points was achieved with a back nine total of 24 points after a lacklustre start.
Tony Thorne took pot with the sole birdie ‘2’ of the day, on the sixteenth hole and Chris Voller’s worst round in many a month was honoured with the Booby Bevy.
At the presentation back in the People’s Republic of Soi Buakhao, talk once again focused on the events of the day, the state of emergency and the legality of an assembly of more than five people at a presentation, the colour of shirts and the approaching Songkhran week. Thank goodness golf is such a sensible distraction.

Long time visitor to host 70th Birthday tournament

John Ottaway, long time visitor to Pattaya in conjunction with Mulligans Lakeside, will host a golf tournament at Rayong Green Valley on April 23 to help celebrate his 70th birthday.
John has promised there will be plenty of prizes available, including an array of technical prizes, & with Mulligans Lakeside hosting the prize giving ceremony, buffet & party in the evening, it promises to be a great event.
The date coincides with St George’s Day, so a special day indeed for all our English ex pats, if any further motivation was required.
The field is limited to only 60 competitors, at only 1,200 baht entry fee, including Green fee, Caddy fee & buffet, it is recommended that bookings for timeslots be done swiftly.
You can book by calling Jeff 089 094 1841, Ray 081 935 8088 or drop down to Mulligans Lakeside, overlooking Lake Mabbrachan, to sign up.

La Montgomery bowls 620 series as Indiana make a move

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Sala Thai Restaurant took all four points from VFW Post 9876 and moved up three places into second place. Somrak led Sala Thai with a 213 game and 530 series.

200 Bowlers: Somrak and La Montgomery.
Indiana moved up from fifth to third place behind La Montgomery’s 620 series, which is the best series of the league, as they took all four points from Café Kronborg. La’s series included games of 193, 214 and 213. Sue Murphy rolled a 513 series for Kronborg.
Brother D remains in first place after they split their match with Green Chilli with each team getting two points. Antero Tonkainen bowled a 523 series to give Bavaria a two and one half to one and one half win over Swethai. Aht Johansson bowled a 537 series for Swethai.
Café Ole won all four points from Sabai Sabai Friday who forfeited as two of their bowlers were out wearing red shirts. Mai Munsitha bowled a 530 series to lead Jack Tar to a three point win over Canada.

Thursday is Graham’s lucky day -again, again & again

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Graham Hiskett and David Edwards celebrate with Dewey,
LaLa & Ooh on the patio at Mulligans Lakeside.

Jeff Wylie
Tuesday, April 7, Crystal Bay - Stableford
Firstly to Tuesday where we had 18 players travel to Crystal Bay, all trying to tame the B & A layouts. This week we only had moderate rain for 10 - 15 minutes (I knew if I had my umbrella it would keep the torrential storms away).
With the increase in numbers today we had 2 flights, 0–18 & 19 up.
The B Flight was won by Steve Black (25) with 36 points, besting John Chapman (26) 32 points, who in turn edged Yves Philbert (24) by 1.
The top flight was claimed by Martin Hayes (12) on 35 points ahead of Ken Hole (16) with 33 while yours truly (8) had 31 points to just grab third spot.
The technical prizes were won by John McKeon on B4, with Dave Edwards scooping up the balance on offer, obviously striking the irons well.
Thursday, April 9, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Thursday, and as the headline indicates the day was won for the third week in a row by Graham Hiskett (14) with a worthy 37 points off the blue tees. David Edwards was able to combine his fine iron play with some scoring today to claim second spot with 35 points. Just the 9 players out today so that was the rundown.
Technicals awards went to Ken, and fittingly Dave & Graham, as they were truly a class above the rest today.
Note: Golf at Mulligans Lakeside is held on Tuesdays & Thursdays. Affiliated with the PSC we will be accessing the various vouchers available. 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. Give Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088 a call for details on courses & tee off times. Cheers & Good Golfing!