Pattaya City win inaugural Horseshoe Point Cup

Saksiri Uraiworn
Seventeen youth football teams from around the Pattaya area lined up on May 30 to compete for the first-ever “Horseshoe Point Cup” at the Horseshoe Point Resort and Country Club.
The tournament, staged by the resort to show off its sports facilities, was won by the Pattaya City team who overcame the Modern Access team in the final. The hosts Horseshoe Point finished in a respectable third place and the Regents School won the “Best Playing Team” award.
Jet Sopitpongsathorn, managing director for Horseshoe Point Co. Ltd., said the tournament was organized to promote friendship between Thai and foreign residents, boost sports tourism in Pattaya, and also to promote an activity to keep youths away from drugs and develop good sportsmanship.

Pattaya City take on Regents School in one of the early round matches.

Adventure Race Dash Series reaches its climax

The 6th and last episode of the popular Adventure Dash series will take place on Sunday June 21 in Kao Mai Keo (Tham Pathun) near Pattaya.
The race will be divided into Men, Women, and Masters Men (Over 40 years of age) categories and will involve mountain biking, running and mystery tests. The approximate length of the course will be 8km of running and 18km of mountain biking.
The entry fee will be 500 baht if registration and payment is made in advance and 600 baht on Race day. There will be a short trophy ceremony after each Dash where medals and prizes will be awarded to the top 3 in each category.

The 6th and final race of this year’s Adventure Dash series will take place on Sunday June 21 in Kao Mai Keo (Tham Pathun) near Pattaya.

There will be a total of 30,000 baht in prize value for each race with a 5,000 baht cash prize going to the winners of Women and Men’s categories. Prizes will be given to the top three in each category.
“We estimate that the front runners will complete the course in 90 minutes. The slower participants should arrive at the finish line in maximum 3 hours” says Serge Henkens, the race director. “What we want is that the participants can be back home for lunch and spend the Sunday afternoon with their families”
The Amarin Outdoor Unlimited Dash Series launched in September 2008 has proved very successful and the Dash Series 2009-2010 is already confirmed with 6 races to be held between October 2009 and June 2010.
The races take place on Sunday mornings in locations not over 100 kilometres from Bangkok and easy accessible. Locations are carefully chosen for their beautiful scenery and challenging terrain.
“These sprint races give the opportunity to athletes who never competed in an Adventure Race to discover the spectacular world of Adventure Racing and have a taste of adventure” says Henkens.
“It also helps everyone to prepare for longer competitions. As the distances are much shorter, these races are also accessible to everyone. Another difference is that the Dashes are competed individually and not in teams of 2 as it is the case for longer races organized by AMA.”
The last race of the season on June 21 is the perfect preparation for the next “Ibis Koh Samui Trophy” adventure race that will take place in Samui on September 19, 2009. For more information about the Dash, visit www.adventuredash.com or for the Koh Samui event go to www.kohsamuitrophy.com or call Ying (Thai-English) on 02 7189581-2

Bridge in Paradise: Robert learns a new rule

Neil Robinson
This is the first of a short series of related columns on defence.  Defence is the most difficult part of bridge, because, unlike declarer, defenders cannot see their partner’s hand.
The featured player in these columns, sitting East, is Robert the Rules, a charming Welsh friend of mine.  We often play together at the historic old club in Muang Som-mut.  His nickname comes from his habit of pronouncing on everything according to rules he drew up years ago, and rarely changes.  When you are in Thailand, you must do this, but you should never do that etc.  At the bridge table he is the same - he is sometimes willing to add a new rule to his catalogue, but never to break one.
Imagine you are defending against four hearts.  Partner leads the queen of clubs, which promises the jack and denies the king.  Dummy has three small clubs.  You hold ace and three low cards.  What card do you play?
Some players, from a misguided sense of deference to their partner, do not want to smother their partner’s queen with the ace.  Robert the Rules would never make this mistake.  He knows declarer holds the king, that it might be singleton, and that he must go up with the ace or he may never score it.  Most important, one of his favourite rules is third hand high.
That was a fairly straightforward situation.  Now imagine your partner leads not the queen of clubs, but the jack.  The jack promises the ten and denies the queen.  Dummy has king and two small clubs.  You have the ace and three small.  What do you play?
Unless you have good reason to believe that declarer’s queen is singleton (or unless you can see that an immediate switch of suit is necessary), you must duck, so that you can kill the king with the ace later.  In this example, if you go up with your ace then declarer will later score two tricks, the queen and the king.  If you withhold your ace, declarer can never score the king.  The principle is to keep an honour to beat an honour in dummy.
I was sitting West with Robert as my partner on the hand below, with everyone vulnerable and South dealer.  Like most members of the Som-mut Club, our opponents believe in quick auctions.  South opened one spade and North went directly to four.

                      S: AQ73

                      H: QJ10

                      D: K42

                      C: K75      

S: 84                                S: 95

H: A753                          H: 8642

D: 1086                            D: A975

C: J1093                          C: A64

                      S: KJ1062

                      H: K9

                      D: QJ3

                      C: Q82      

I led the jack of clubs.  Dummy ducked and Robert, following the rule of third hand high, went up with the ace.  Now, all we could possibly score in addition to this first trick were the two red aces.  Ten tricks and contract made.
I pointed out (rather forcefully) to Robert that all he had to do was duck the first trick, and keep the ace hovering over the king.  Declarer will win in hand with the queen and draw trumps.  He will then force out the ace of hearts, hoping to throw away a low club from hand on a good heart from dummy.  However, as soon as I get in with the heart ace, I will lead the ten of clubs.  Whether or not declarer covers with the king we will score two club tricks to go with our two red aces.  Then I would be writing +100 on the score pad, not -620.
I must have made the point forcefully enough such that the principle of keeping an honour to beat an honour in dummy made its way into Robert’s lexicon of rules.  But, as you will see to my cost next week, I learned to rue the success of my lesson!
Please e-mail me your favourite hands to [email protected].

Pattaya United suffer fourth league defeat of the season

PM Reporters
Pattaya United’s season long struggle to find the back of their opponent’s net continued last Sunday when they were on the losing end of a 1-0 score line against Thai-Port F.C. at the Klong Toei stadium in Bangkok. The only goal came late in the game from former Thai national player Pipat Tonkanya.

Pattaya United’s Nikorn (right) comes away with the ball after being challenged by a Thai-Port F.C. player during the match in Bangkok last Sunday. Pattaya lost the game 1-0. (Photo by Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

The loss sees United slip to 13th place in the table, one place below Navy Rayong who also suffered a 1-0 defeat last weekend at the hands of Bangkok United. Pattaya’s next game is on Sunday, June 16, at home against TOT F.C., kick off at 6 p.m.
Meanwhile, title challenging Chonburi F.C. missed a chance to close the gap at the top when they were held to a 1-1 draw by bottom placed Chula United last Saturday. Chula took a surprise lead in the first half through Kasinsit Puekanong and then put up some sterling resistance as Chonburi tried desperately to get back on even terms. Eventually the pressure told and the visitors scored an equalizer in the 67th minute through Kone Mohamed, but Chula were able to hold out for the remainder of the game to secure a well deserved point.
Chonburi were left to rue on a potential missed opportunity as both first and second placed teams, Bangkok Glass and Muang Thong United, were held to draws in their respective matches. Chonburi still trail league leaders Bangkok Glass by 3 points but the ‘Sharks’ have a game in hand.
The one bright spot for the Eastern Seaboard teams last weekend was a 2-0 win for lowly Sri Racha F.C. against Nakhon Pathom F.C. at the Sirindhorn Stadium. The win lifted Sir Racha from the foot of the table after Chula had briefly displaced them following their draw with Chonburi on Saturday.

Pattaya City disappointed with third place finish

Paul Frain
Pattaya City finished in third place in the recently completed MBMG International League 2008/09 season after The Londoner from Bangkok were crowned as worthy champions and Cosmos won their game in hand over City to claim the runners-up spot.
City’s Chairman Rick Bryatt admitted he was disappointed with the season overall but he is hoping that the team will bounce back stronger for the next campaign.
The officials of Pattaya City Football Club would like to take the opportunity to thank their sponsors AGS Four Winds for their continued support throughout the season and also the many people who came down to cheer the team on.

The Fab ‘Fore’

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, May 31, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Eddie Beilby (15) 40pts
2nd Colin Davis (15) 39pts
3rd Seamus Cotter (10) 37pts
B Flight
1st John Dearden (20) 42pts
2nd Gabriel Enright (21) 42pts
3rd Sim Davis (32) 41pts
Near Pins: Seamus Cotter, Geoff Doody, Eddie Beilby, John Dearden
2’s: Three
Our usual Sunday trip to Green Valley had an unusual twist to it to day. One four-ball consisting of the Donkey, his Mrs., John “The Bas….” Deardon and Gabriel Enright amassed an amazing 164 points between them, and not a Paddy in sight. Read on.

Peter “Rocky” Ring celebrates his 79th birthday with his wife at Lewiinski’s on May 27.

B Flight saw John “The Bas…” overcome Gabriel on a count back, both firing 42 blistering points. Sim, the “Donkey’s better half”, cantered in to the third spot one shot adrift.
Peter Ring was heard talking aloud in the club house: “37 points for nothing; I would love to be in the paper for something other than fighting.” Well we’re happy to oblige Peter - you’re in this week’s article for moaning.
The Captain took full control of B Flight, carding a wonderful 40 points. Making up the dream team ‘fore’ ball was “The Donkey”, coming in a shot short. Well there had to be a Mick in the frame somewhere and it was Seamus V C who filled out the flight.
The 2’s were at a premium this week; Eddie Beilby, “Captain Fogg” and Jack “Bilko” Spencer sharing the spoils.
Wednesday, June 3, Phoenix - Stableford
A Flight
1st Jimmy Day (13) 37pts
2nd Claus Bjorn Thomsen (10) 35pts
B Flight
1st Geoff Kubas (21) 36pts
2nd Joe Tynan (28) 32pts
After posting a super 42 points the previous day at Greenwood, Claus Bjorn Thomsen carried on were he left off and returned a 35 point haul to secure second spot in the senior flight, amid a cloud burst that saw only the strongest continue with the game. But it was the C. Wicklow man Jimmy Day, who spoilt Claus last game before he returns to the land of the Vikings. Jimmy’s super 37 point return, impressive as it was, could have been even more so as Jimmy had two no-scoring holes.
Geoff Kubas did plenty to secure the junior flight, posting a fine even par round 36 pts and Co. Wicklow again provided the second placed spot in the form of Joe “I never get lost no more” Tynan. Joe arrived at the Phoenix an hour earlier than the rest, taking no chances with his Sat Nav.
Friday, June 5, Pattana - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Henshaw (14) 32pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (10) 31pts
B Flight
1st Robert Hanson (15) 39 pts
2nd Barry Elphick (16) 35pts
Arriving at Pattana in the middle of a storm and gale force winds was enough to send some golfers straight back to Pattaya. But a drop of warm rain was no deterrent to co Dublin’s Peter Henshaw who posted a mere 32 points to win A Flight. Seamus Cotter VC, the reinstated jockey from Co Cork, ensured it was an all Irish affair a shot adrift.
The scores were slightly better in B Flight as Robert Hanson’s 35 points was the best of the day. Barry Elphick, the Aussie, and no relation to Jim, secured second place on count back over Geoff Kubas, both tied on 31 points.
No 2’s again so a double rollover next Tuesday.
I heard it on the Wireless
Golf’s a hard game to figure out: one day you’ll go out and slice it and shank it, hit in to all the traps and miss all the greens. The next day you go out for a game with Brian and for no reason at all, go deaf and really stink!
Note: Lewinski’s have introduced a new free draw for all competitors’ who participate in their golf daily comps. All competing names are entered into a blind draw, and if your name is drawn then you win the pot. You must be in Lewinski’s at the time of the draw. At the time of writing the pot stands at over three thousand baht. Get signed up!
NB: 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.

Trant tops 40 twice in a week

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Monday, June 1, Phoenix – Stableford
Today was a short trip to Phoenix Golf course for a stableford competition. The weather was a little indecisive with some wet showers, but this did not hamper the scores on the day.

Damien Trant is all smiles after his back-to-back wins.

Some good putting saw Damien Trant get two birdie ‘2’s, and Roger Moore and Ted Gardner managed one a piece to share the pot. The runner up in the Stableford event was Roger Moore with 35 points whilst the winner, and way ahead of the rest of the field, was Damien Trant with a tremendous round of 40 points.
Friday, June 5, Green Valley - Stableford
Today was a trip to our favourite course of Green Valley to play a stableford competition. On the day it was agreed that it would be ‘winter rules’ and pick and place on the fairway; some golfers forgot it was pick and place and struggled along.
Coming home in third place was Jeff North with 33 points; in second was Jim Boyd with 37, but well ahead of all and taking full advantage of the winter rules was Damien Trant once more with a very impressive score of 42 points. With his good win on Monday this gave him a well deserved double for the week.

Gosden and Yamada share the spoils

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, June 1, Crystal Bay – Stableford
Yes it is June already and we were at Crystal Bay Resort on the A & C Nines for a stableford event in two flights with the cut at handicap 16. This is another course that seems to be in financial stress at the present time. All of the pretty gardens from the gate are overgrown and the rough on the course was quite long, maybe due to the wet conditions of late. But there are a lot of on course flower beds not being maintained. However, this venue overall is considered good value for money with one to a cart starting on June 15 at 450 baht.

Mike Gosden was a double A Flight winner last week.

Mike Gosden won the A Flight with 36 points ahead of Paul Avery in second on 32 points and Monte Sykes in third on 31 points. In the B Flight the winner was Koji Yamada with 37 points, ahead of Marcel Wittwer in second with 35 points and Brian Gabe in third with 30 points.
Thursday, June 4, Green Valley – Stableford
I really thought about just changing the course name and sending in the report for Monday. It gets like that at times as certain golfers go through their ‘hot patches’ and become untouchable for a couple of weeks.
On this day we were off to Green Valley and, as is usual these days with the vouchers, we had a fine turnout. So with a light heart off we went to this course that is among the top favourites of most players.
The big problem we have these days is that it seems to rain every time we play, and despite starting in nice, if overcast weather, it was not long before the clouds rolled in and as we, the leading four-ball, played the 8th, the downpour started. We managed to finish the 8th and reached cover in the rest stop, but it really howled and the rain crashed down. The green became a Waterworld and branches were ripped off trees.
In a short while we were joined by the other groups so it became a rather ‘cosy’ crowd. Still the greens were soaked and could not be putted on so we had quite a long break until we proceeded.
Underway once more we soon found that the greens were holding a lot of water and were a bit of a lottery, but we soldiered on. The weather was still a bit spitty but really not too bad.
Finished it was just fine to get into a warm shower, and the showers here are just fine, then into one of the many good eating placers. My favourite as is well known is the German Restaurant, and I usually have my fix, currywurst, here.
The winners, as has been said, had a familiar ring to their names. The winner of the A Flight, 0 to 17, was Mike Gosden with 38 points, in second was Mick O’Meara with 35 points and in third was Marcel Wittwer with 34 points.
In the B Flight the winner was Koji Yamada with 41 points ahead of Joe Vanderwegan in second with 35 points and Graham Buckingham in third with 33 points. Koji will now be playing in the A Flight. Well done!
Incidentally, it absolutely hammered it down on the way back, and Rip Van Tom slept through it all. And no, he was not driving, come to think of it though! T.T.F.N.

Splendid season opener at Greenwood

Cotton goes back to back

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, June 2, Pattana – Stableford
With the previous week washed out, in effect, this was to be not only a normal golf day, but also the culmination of the Alan Bolton Golfer of the Month for May.
This is superb value at present and if there is a better clubhouse around I have yet to see it and as we arrived we were met with the sight of a super layout ahead. Soon through the changing facilities we were quickly onto the first hole, B1 and as is usual here the first ball went into the water. It of course was not the only one. B1 can be a problem.

Ann from Alan Bolton Property Consultants (left) presents the monthly award to Tom Cotton.

Leading the race for ‘golfer of the month’ award was Tom Cotton, closely followed by the scribe, and a second place by Tom would be enough to see him in. If both of us failed the rest could creep up, and by the end of the C Nine with Tom on 12 points and the scribe on 16 it seemed Tom was out of it, and the scribe had only an outside chance.
The day was really tough with high swirling winds and rain at times. The rain was not too bad but the wind was annoying and it was felt that the final score would not be outstanding.
Sat in the restaurant later, and what a superb one it is, we saw the scores come in and noticed only one good score, and it was not by Tom nor I. Still, miracles do occur and who knows.
Back at Bert’s the scores were on the doors: the winner with 37 points was Koji, he is always there or about. The person in second was, believe it or not, Tom Cotton with a great 22 points on the back nine. He beat Paul Sharples into third place on count back and in fourth was Mashi with 32 points, who beat the scribe on count back.
So the winner of The Alan Bolton Golfer of The Month, for the second month in a row was Tom Cotton. Well done Tom!

Evans above - he caught the bouquet

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday winners: Richard Moore, William Smith and Robert Ledlie,
(inset is ‘The Bride’, Alan Evans).

Barry Hooper
I made mention in my last report that Alan Evans was the bridesmaid, never the bride, after having two second places during the previous week’s outings.
Well this week he must have caught the bride’s bouquet because he had two wins: one of these being a forty-pointer at Phoenix on June 4, beating Steven Deakin by three. The other was earlier in the week on June 1 at Bangpra with a thirty-six pointer over Ted Senior’s thirty-four. Congratulations Alan from all at the TRGG – well deserved. We’re really looking forward to seeing you in your dress.
Monday, June 1, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Alan Evans (26) 36pts
2nd Ted Senior (16) 34pts
3rd Ray Trembath (10) 33pts
4th Eddie Townsend (14) 33pts
For our first outing the month on Monday we travelled to Bangpra: this is a nice course, particularly if you like wildlife. We had a good turnout and saw some good golf. A number of our regulars were in the field plus a few new names. That is always nice to see.
Well what can you say after commenting about Alan Evans not being able to get that a first place - and he goes and does just that. He came out firing on all cylinders to put in a great round of golf and produce a thirty-six pointer for first place, forcing Ted Senior at thirty four into second spot. Ray Trembath had the same position as last week at Emerald, third with thirty-three, taking it on count back over Eddie Townsend.
Roger Wilkinson kept the 2’s pot all to himself.
Thursday, June 4, Phoenix (Mountain & Lake) – Stableford
1st Alan Evans (26) 40pts
2nd Steven Deakin (18) 37pts
3rd William Smith (18) 34pts
4th Alun Webber (23) 34pts
Yes, another of our regular outings to Phoenix (Mountain and Lake) on Thursday: the course as always was in great condition and we had an average turnout of quality players.
Well blow me down if Alan Evans didn’t do it again. He took the first spot for his second win of the week. This time it was with a great forty-pointer, 21 of these coming on the back nine. The nearest to him was Steven Deakin back at thirty-seven in second spot and William Smith a further three back at thirty-four in third, and that after a count back over Alun Webber.
Just to crown it all, Alan also picked up all of the 2’s pot as well. What a great week for him.
Saturday, June 6, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Robert Ledlie (23) 39pts
2nd William Smith (18) 36pts
3rd Richard Moore 32pts
4th Ray Allison (11) 31pts
Saturday was another trip to our regular weekend venue of Green Valley and the first visit for June. The weather behaved itself again thank goodness; you can never be sure these days can you and the numbers attending were good, including many new faces.
It was some of these new names that appeared in the frame on the day. Robert Ledlie, who took the top honours with a thirty-nine pointer, has played with us before but I have not had the opportunity to previously pass comment on his prowess in my reports. Well done Robert. In second place was visiting William Smith at thirty-six, going one better than his third at Phoenix. Richard Moore, a pal of Robert Ledlie’s who comes and visits with us once in a while from Bangkok was third with thirty-two and Ray Alison took fourth on thirty-one on a count back over John Lay, Steven Deakin and Rob Herald.
No 2’s on the day so a traditional bell ring took place back at the Travellers Rest.

Dave & Ken on top at the 2 ‘Greens’

PSC golf from Mulligan’s Lakeside

Dave Edwards, Landlord Ray & Jeff prepare to tee off at Green Valley.

Tuesday, June 2, Green Valley - Stableford
We travelled out to Rayong Green Valley on Tuesday, where we found the course in good condition, with the usual firm greens and well grassed fairways. Good scores were not the order of the day however, with only Dave Edwards (15) breaking his handicap with a well compiled 38 points. Second place went to the ever consistent Monte Sykes (4), just ahead of Jeff Wylie (8), with 34 and 33 points respectively.
The weather looked after us, even though there were some threatening skies, with a nice breeze keeping the golfers cool.
Technical prizes went to John C, Jeff, Terry & Nobby.
Thursday, June 4, Greenwood
Thursday, and it was off along Highway 331, north to Greenwood, where the course was in tip top condition, but the weather was not ideal with some heavy showers keeping the umbrellas on stand by.
Despite the distraction of rain, good scores were more prevalent, with Ken Hole (16) leading the way after showing good form to post 38 points. Martin Hayes (13) also had 38, but was pipped on a count back (18 to 17). Third place went to the ever-present Dave Edwards (15) on 37 points; he beat off both Ian & John C, also on count backs.
Technical prizes were split 2 each to John Mc & Nobby; John commenting that it was fine reward for his only 2 good shots of the day.
We will travel to Emerald on Tuesday 16/6, and to Mountain Shadow on Thursday 18/6, tee off times 10:00 am. For more details on scheduling and departure times call Jeff on 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088. We try and avail ourselves of the PSC negotiated vouchers or Sport Days offered by various clubs in the current Low Season, with no prize pool skimming on “Administration Fees”.
Cheers & Good Golfing!

Koji doubles up

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, June 1, Phoenix - Stableford
Being the low season, and with the number of golfer’s declining accordingly, there was only one flight at Phoenix on this the first game in June.

Koji Yamada was a two time winner playing golf with the Bunker Bar last week.

 It was a close finish too with a count back separating Alan Sullivan and Eddie Martin, Alan scoring better on the back nine to just nick it. Peter Habgood was a couple of points behind in third place and Dave Dolle came in fourth with 33 points.
1st Alan Sullivan (11) 37pts
2nd Eddie Martin (18) 37pts
3rd Peter Habgood (18) 35pts
4th Dave Dolle (8) 33pts
Near Pins: Dave Dolle, Dave Keats, Reg Smart and Peter Habgood.
Wednesday, June 3, Bangpra - Medal
Japanese golfer Koji Yamada had a steady game at Bangpra, shooting a level par round to take the day’s honours. Peter Habgood had another good day, coming a close second with a one over par score and Mashi surprisingly took the third spot with a very modest net 77.
1st Koji Yamada (18) net 72
2nd Peter Habgood (18) net 73
3rd Mashi Kaneta (12) net 77
Near Pins: Richard Griffin (2), Peter Habgood.
Friday, June 5, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Koji had another fine day again on his last game with The Bunker Boy’s before returning home. Playing stableford and despite having been cut two shots he won again, beating William on a count back after both finished with 35 points. PJ came a close third only one point behind.
1st Koji Yamada (16) 35pts
2nd William Macey (13) 35pts
3rd P.J. Redmond (16) 34pts
Near Pins: Roger Privett and William Macey

Yasuo Suzuki cashes in

IPGC golf from The Haven

With Monday’s fixture cancelled due to the International Match Play games and the attendant IPGC Monthly Stableford being played at Greenwood on the following Tuesday, there were only two competitions out of the Haven this week.
The match play fixture against Lewiinski’s produced a loss of 5 to 3 for the Haven with a full report of the match together with the individual results found in the Pattaya Golf Society’s write up in this week’s newspaper.
Wednesday, June 3, Pattana - Stableford
1st Derek Holt 33pts
2nd Mike Contoni 32pts
3rd Bob O’Dowd 30pts
The week’s usual competition golf out of Soi 13 finally got off on Wednesday but the weather and the previous day’s games conspired to limit the field that left The Haven in pouring rain. Although the weather had eased off by the start time, the course was completely sodden so as to make scoring a very tough proposition. In the end the CSS went out to 75 and the competition was declared non-counting for upward review as not even the winner managed to get within two shots of his handicap.
This did not diminish the win by Derek Holt however, as he was one of the few that could take away some satisfaction from the day, and even though he was three over his handicap it was good enough to see off the challenge of Mike Contoni who took his first podium placing a shot behind, with Bob O’Dowd another two away in third place.
Unsurprisingly there were no 2’s in either division.
Friday, June 5, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Yasuo Suzuki 38pts
2nd Kinya Akiyama 32pts
3rd B.J. Smith 32pts
4th Paul Hartley 31pts
5th Peter Aitcheson 31pts
Another day when the clouds opened up before the due leaving time meant another smaller than usual turnout, but again by the time tee time arrived at the course only a very light splattering of rain remained and that soon cleared up. The course was again very wet in most areas and suffered negatively from the obvious lack of grass mowing, again no doubt due to the weather, and scoring was for the most part an onerous task.
This was all born out again by the CSS that moved out to 74 but this time counting for upward reviews.
Yasuo Suzuki was the notable exception as he put in a very good round of two under his handicap to sweep away all competition by a clear six points. Kinya Akiyama was second with a better count back of 17 to B.J. Smith’s 14 after a bright start. Paul Hartley took fourth spot ahead of Peter Aitcheson with a better back nine of 16 to Peter’s 12.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Yasuo Suzuki made it a bumper day when he slipped in the only one in the first division to start him musing on serious career possibilities in Pattaya.

Bob prevails in three-way count back

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, June 2, Pattana (white tees) – Stableford
Happily for us Pattana has stuck to the 480 baht green fee negotiated on behalf of PSC by Perry McNeely, making this venue very good value for money.

Ian, Bob and Pete were amongst the prizes at Plutaluang.

Mike King (12) returned the best score for the day of 37 points and also sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green. Mick Benton (16) came second with 32 points, his money being augmented by two near pin bonuses. Yours truly suitably pruned to (13) took third spot with 31 points leaving David Clamp (13) to pick up fourth prize. Leroy Huntingdon snaffled the other near pin bonus.
The average score was 27.6 points.
Thursday, June 4, Plutaluang N & W (white tees) - Stableford
Navy was lush, the deep rough being ‘as high as an elephant’s eye’. Small groups and deserted courses equates to tremendous golf at this time of year although we were rained on yet again this Thursday.
Three players returned 33 points with Bob Drumm taking first with 19 points on the back-nine count back, followed by Rob Gandley 16 points and Pete Sumner 15 points. Pete had two near pin bonuses, Willy and Ian the other two whilst Leroy sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green. The average score for the day was 28.4 points. Next Thursday, June 18, we return to Navy for a 10.00 start.
Aka O’Reilly walked into a large well known hardware store last week where he was approached by a man in an apron who asked him if he wanted decking. Aka happened to be on his toes, got the first punch in and scored a knock out but warns that less suspecting souls might not be so lucky.
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.

Usual suspects on top

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Overcast and threatening did not hinder the gang as they headed out on the turf of the Pattaya Country Club. While the greens were slow due to an accumulation of dew, the course was otherwise in pretty good shape.

Winner Sus Ige (left) with second placed Michael Fischer.

Teeing off at 6:30 a.m. you rarely get held up due to slow play. The reason for that is that, for the most part, our groups are the first off the tee box. One two-some got off ahead of our group but the last we saw of them they were headed up the fairway of Hole 2.
The great cloudy weather held until the 11th hole. The lead group caught the rain; beginning with a very light sprinkle, but by the 12th a serious rain shower began that lasted for the next few holes.
Undaunted by the showers however, everyone finished and met up at Caddy Shack 2 where Herbie Ishinaga had the regular and hot and spicy dogs cooking away. A tally of the score cards found the same winners from the end of May taking the first week of June. Sus Ige came in with a winning 39 points followed by Michael Fischer with 37. The non-winners meanwhile took out their frustrations on the hot dogs and available beverages.

Stockman the class act at Pattana

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, June 1, Burapha - Stableford
Capt’ Bob decided to give all 25 Outbackers an easier ride than usual by playing from the white tees on Crystal & Dunes; then promptly went out and won Div A with 38 points, finishing bogey, double bogey for a gross 75. There is a steward’s enquiry under way regarding the circumstances surrounding the ‘dropped shots’ … only joking – well played mate! Following Bob in were Paul Sharples with 37 and Rosco & Joe, both on 36.
With a slightly cheaper green fee, it was another quick round of three hours for the leading three balls; who must have thought they were lucky to be playing at all, given the appalling weather on the way to the course and in the vicinity. However, the rain somehow stayed away and all enjoyed some excellent playing conditions.
Div B was won by Hans Kafka with the best score of the day, 39 points, ahead of regular Outbackers, Frank O’Neill on 37 and Peter Stonebridge on 36.
There were five ‘2’s from Bruce Milner, Bob Maloney, Alan Pilkington, Joe Mooneyham & Paul Greenaway.
Div A (0-14)
1st Bob Philp (5) 38pts
2nd Paul Sharples (9) 37pts
3rd Rosco Langoulant (12) 36pts
4th Joe Mooneyham (12) 36pts
Div B (15+)
1st Hans Kafka (17) 39pts
2nd Frank O’Neill (16) 37pts
3rd Peter Stonebridge (16) 36pts
4th Brad Driffell (17) 35pts
Tuesday, June 2, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford
It was a rainy early morning - but when the 18 Outbackers arrived at Pattaya Country Club the weather had cleared to give us a pleasant day with some wind keeping it cool and maybe it was the wind that affected the scores! Like most courses at present it was quiet so it was the usual 4 hours round.
The golf? Well that was rather mediocre with just one player beating their handicap – that was in Division A - that man again Bob Pearce (13) with 37 points. The runner-up was not so stunning this week, John Lawton (16) with 33 points and Mike Tilley (18) once again in the frame with 31.
If that was not so good, B Division scores were all below 30 with Mrs. ‘Stunning’ Suzy Lawton (22) best of the bunch with 29 points, runner –up Joachim Oestreicher (26) with 28, and ‘our Arthur’, Arthur Bailey (22) third with 27.
There was just one 2 and this was from Les Cocker who had just received his official handicap.
Many will be back next Tuesday as Capt Bob’s words at the presentation were ‘you must all try harder!’
The Outback are at Pattaya Country every Tuesday with a tee time of 10:00.
Div A (0-19)
1st Bob Pearce (13) 37pts
2nd John Lawton (16) 33pts
3rd Mike Tilley (18) 31pts
Div B (20+)
1st Suzi Lawton (22) 29pts
2nd Joachim Oestreicher (26) 28pts
3rd Arthur Bailey (22) 27pts
Wednesday, June 3, Crystal Bay - Stableford
It’s difficult to find words to describe the disaster that is overwhelming this previously beautiful course. Once upon a time it was sheer delight to play at the now renamed, Panya Park, with it’s immaculate slick greens, beautifully manicured fairways and colourful bougainvillea bushes and hedgerows
Today the 19 Outbackers, playing the C & A nines, witnessed a shocking display of utter neglect as buggies were allowed to drive indiscriminately all over the already sodden fairways (more mud than grass in some places) and the greens were showing signs of extensive local grass infestation, making every putt a lottery. The changing rooms have never been spectacular but at least today there was hot water; however the attendant, who has been there for many years, seemed to be slipping down the same path as the course, as he politely asked, ‘Can you return the towels to me?’ (rather than me have get up and have to pick them up!). Even the compressed air boot cleaner outside couldn’t muster enough air pressure to blow away a butterfly, let alone the mud and grass off one’s shoes.
Harsh words one might say, but not even the cheap green fee voucher could make sufficient allowance to ever return here in the foreseeable future.
Well, to the results and pretty ordinary they were too; with a mere 33 points from Bob Maloney being enough to win Div A, followed by Joe & Capt’ Bob with 31 and 29 respectively . Those in Div B fared a little better, as Ivan Plunkett’s 35 was the best of the day, ahead of Harvey Samuel with 34.
There were just two fantastic ‘2’s from Harvey Samuel and Bruce Milner.
Div A (0-14)
1st Bob Maloney (12) 33pts
2nd Joe Mooneyham (12) 31pts
3rd Bob Philp (5) 29pts
Div B (15+)
1st Ivan Plunkett (17) 35pts
2nd Harvey Samuel (17) 34pts
3rd Brad Driffell (17) 32pts
Thursday, June 4, Green Valley - Stableford
It was another day of ducking and diving the rain in this ongoing wet season for the 14 Outbackers playing at Green Valley today. The scores were only moderate in the two divisions with the top score of the day, a mere 34 points. Wayne Cotterall won Div A with those 34 points on count back from Chris Davisson also on 34, with Ron De Groot edging out his good mate Bob Maloney, for third place, both scoring 31.
Div B was won by Suzi Lawton with 33 points from the Doodys, Geoff & Kathy, with 31 and 29 points respectively.
The Outback says goodbye to a few as Bob, Ron and Wayne all return to Australia whilst Alan Pilkington and Tom Atkins (who didn’t play today for some reason) both return to the UK. Welcome back also to Des Scott, playing after quite a long absence, travelling all over the place with his daughter.
There were no ‘2’s, so the pot was added to the prize fund.
Div A (0-16)
1st Wayne Cottee (12) 34pts
2nd Chris Davisson (12) 34pts
3rd Ron De Groot (16) 31pts
Div B (17+)
1st Suzi Lawton (22) 33pts
2nd Geoff Doody (21) 31pts
3rd Kathy Doody (17) 29pts
Friday, June 5, Pattana - Stableford
Apart from an MBMG league match against Tropical Berts about this time last year, this is the first time that the Outback have played at Pattana. Opened as recently as 2004, it was not an immediate hit with the local golfing fraternity due mainly to over pricing in both the restaurant and on the golf course. The greens were bumpy and slow and there are some particularly long and tricky holes that earned no favour from many a golfer.
Over the years there have been many deals and sport days to woo support but none get anywhere near the value for money deal recently obtained by the PSC Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely, for PSC members.
It’s a grand and ostentatious conglomeration of buildings ranging from the impressive clubhouse and restaurant to the extensive conference facilities, hotel and numerous private villas. The green fee procedure is somewhat laborious in that every member’s card has to be photo copied and signed, as is customary in Thailand, but they can soon be forgiven for their paper trail considering the quality of the golf course and excellent changing rooms.
Looking at the card, some 6,700 yards from the white tees was seemingly too long in the wet conditions, so the decision was made to play from the yellows, at some 300 yards shorter.
Playing Brookei (B) and Calypso (C) , and starting on B, one is faced with probably one of the most daunting first hole tee shots, making the first on Mountain at Laem Chabang look like a walk in the park. It’s long (even from the yellows), with water left and right and a split level fairway; the long second shot is no easier to an elevated island green, well protected at the front by a bunker, into a left to right sloping green. Walk off that with a Par, and you’re well on your way to a good round of golf.
With the amount of rain in the last few days, it was no surprise to learn that the carts were not allowed off the paths (you could learn something here Crystal Bay)! Credit must be given to the condition of the course, the considerable improvement to the greens, that have become quite fast, and the general maturity of the fairways and relatively newly planted trees.
Drinks round the course are fairly priced, with a local beer at only 65 baht, and if you can get into the clubhouse before 3 p.m., there is an excellent buffet for 250 baht.
Now to the golf; Dave Stockman double bogeyed the last but still finished with 37 points off h’cap 5 to win the day, ahead of Doug Douglas with 34. Apple Jitchana (aka Blackwell) amazingly played off h’cap 16 from the same tee as the guys, scoring a quite brilliant 33 points to finish fourth, beaten only on count back by Bruce McAdam.
There were just two ‘2’s from Dave Stockman and Rosco.
Note: Lewiinski’s, who also played here today, chose to play from the white tees; it will be interesting to see their winning scores when they are published.
1st Dave Stockman (5) 37pts
2nd Doug Douglas (19) 34pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 33pts
4th Apple Jitchana (16) 33pts
5th Harvey Samuel (17) 31pts
NB: If you played this course, the Outback would like you to comment on our forum, outbackchat – topic, “course reviews”, which can be found on our website, www.outbackgolfbar.com. This would help others as to the current condition of the courses in the area. For example - value for money (green fee & cart etc), pace of play, condition of the fairways, condition of the greens, caddies, and drink stops & restaurant. Even if you played a different course, please send in your review for all to read. The more the merrier.
The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474.

Sala Thai Restaurant hang on to top spot

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Nok, Kaew, Wade, Ooy, Rich & Noodle.

Sabai Sabai Friday continued their climb up the standings as they took three points from first place Sala Thai Restaurant. Nok Kennedy once again led her team to victory with a 210 and 560 series. Brother D meanwhile moved from fifth place up to second overall after taking three points from Jack Tar.
Dung Downs bowled a 552 series to lead Green Chilli to a two-two draw with Café Ole. Tue Pettae bowled a 536 series for Café Ole. Café Kronborg dropped from second place to fifth after losing all four points to VFW Post 9876. Kaew was best for VFW with a 211 game and 542 series.
Canada and Swethai split their match with each team getting two points and Leo Kretscher bowled a 541 series to lead Bavaria to a four point sweep over Indiana. Rich Murphy bowling as a spare rolled a 207 game and 546 series.

Mickey Mouse Friday Night Dart League

Results & Standings June 5 (week 11)

Stars travelled away to Palmers Golf & Country Club where they found Palmers Crew in a feisty mood; Palmers taking both the honors. Cheers meanwhile hosted Mee Chew: Melly’s Crew turning up wearing sunglasses due to the bright lights of Pattaya Land, and because of being used to the darkness of Melly’s dungeon. Kenny (MC) apparently slaughtered Stan in their singles match, and then went on to check out the beer for Mee Chew for a second week running.
The Posse hosted O’Leary’s Lepracorns; the Posse putting O’Leary’s off their game by filling up the spittoon next to the ocky. The Lepracorns, composing themselves, then took the beer.
At a secret location on 3rd Road the Blue Mountain played host to the Rising Sun. Still not coming to terms with losing the beer to Stars last week, the Sunshine Boys lacked their usual darting savvy, resulting in the Coffee Shop Quartet taking both game & beer. It has been reported that Steve is now heavily medicated.
Over on the dark side, Team Lucky Time awaited the arrival of the customized golf buggy. The Bunker Boys turned up mob handed and spoiling for a fight. Capt’ Mick had a cunning plan, but so did TLT. In a nail biting, elbow chewing, toe licking (toe licking!!) game, all was square at the break for food . As the beer leg began, the ocky was surrounded by players fidgeting in expectation. After a dodgy start, Team Lucky Time pulled ahead, the leg ending with yours truly checking out the beer to take both the honors for Lucky Time. A very close evening of darts, that could have gone either way. Darts Bunker.
Player/Celebrity Lookalikes: I received 2 nominations this week. Bob has a love interest, Bob Palmer/ (Gorgeous) George Hamilton. Personally I would be a little worried, the nomination came from a bloke! The second nomination I do not agree with. Firstly this person looks nothing like me, and secondly “Mr Potato Head” is not a celebrity!