City running flat out for Sunday’s Pattaya Marathon

Officials pose for photos at the Pattaya Marathon
press conference, Thursday, July 9.

Saksiri Uraiworn
More than 2 million baht in prizes will be up for grabs when the 18th Pattaya Marathon kicks off Sunday morning on Beach Road at Soi 4.
The marathon will crown winners in five categories, including half- and quarter-marathons, a wheelchair marathon and a 5km student race for runners under age 15. The race will follow a route through the Dolphin Roundabout toward Sukhumvit Road, past Police Weekend House to Soi Chaiyapruk, along Jomtien Beach, down Pratamnak Road to Walking Street, then back along Beach Road to Soi 4.
The city will close traffic 3-10 a.m. on Beach Road, Sukhumvit Road to Jomtien Beach and Walking Street.
A staple of the Pattaya tourist scene for years, the marathon this year got an upgrade when it was certified by the Asian Athletics Association, setting the stage for Pattaya to host the 2012 Asian Marathon. Pol. Maj. Gen. Surapong Ariyamongkol, secretary of the Athletic Association of Thailand, said more than 45 countries will participate in the 2012 race, which likely will use the same route as the Pattaya Marathon.
Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome said Pattaya is running flat-out to support racers this year, providing accommodation, transportation, travel and security along the race’s route. A promotional campaign will also see hotels, golf courses, restaurants and tourist destinations offer special prices for athletes and spectators.
Chonburi Gov. Senee Jittakasem said all government agencies are working together to make this year’s race a success in the face of Thailand’s depressed tourism market. More than 1,000 police and emergency-care officers will be deployed.
Once the race has finished, the city will sponsor a “Party on the Beach” with entertainers and games, as well as the awards presentation.
To apply for the race contact the Pattaya Tourism Promotion and Development Office at 038-253127-30, S Y Sinorita Co. Ltd. at Tel. 02-7115500, or online at pattaya-marathon.com.

PSC celebrates a triple decade in grand style

Founding members of the PSC and the Thai committee are presented with silver slavers to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the club.

Members of the PSC Executive Committee take to the stage: (from left) Fred Hornung, Mike Gerrard, William Macey, Tony Oakes, Perry McNeely, Herbie Ishinaga (President), and Max Matthews.

Derek Brook
This was the PSC’s 30th Birthday Summer Party, and I have to say I was actually quite happy to get there. Some of the people who went have been practicing for this night twice a year for 30 years, and they are only the really lucky ones. The rest of us dropped in sometime along the way; we have only done twenty or thirty or forty of these parties. You know life is really hard here in Pattaya, but someone has to do it.

Ladies always come to the PSC Summer Party looking their resplendent best.
During this time the PSC has grown in leaps and bounds from the original 30 founding members to something like 31,000 who have been through the books down the years, and about 10,000 of them are still with us. The club has gone from its original location, the Tip-Bar in Soi 6, to Caesars Bar on Beach Road, to its most famous location, The Cafe Kronborg, before setting up home in its present luxurious setting just off Pattaya 3rd Road.
This was a very illustrious evening when we honored many of our ‘special people’ and we presented very nice silver salvers to our remaining ‘founder members’ and our ‘Thai committee’ - this was a particularly fine gesture, especially as most of these persons have been so important in the development of the club, from where it was 30 years ago, until today’s smooth streamlined organization (one can only dream!)
The night started with the normal band background music and it was noticed that, in particular, the men were better dressed than usual, as the new dress code of ‘Smart Casual’ came into operation, in other words no shorts.

The new PSC President, Herbie Ishinaga, and his lady.
We always expect the ladies to glitter at our parties and so they continued to do so on this night, but the men were at last nearly their equal with Herbie Ishinaga, the new President, leading the way, along with the scribe who had his best ‘Bib and Tucker’ on. Sadly no pictures of the scribe exist as he is notoriously shy, and the majority of the 50+ photos taken were of the ‘real people’ who form the basis of P.S.C.
The evening continued with the new P.S.C. President. Herbie Ishinaga, introducing the new Executive Committee. Mike Gerrard, our Social Chairman, took the night over here and we had some songs by theBaan Jing Jai Orphanage. Charity Chairman Bernie Tuppin ensured that all the singers were well dressed as The E.C. provided nice smart clothes for the singers. Well done the choir, Bernie and the outgoing E.C. members, from which Bernie after many years is taking some time off from.
Now Mike is a real professional and he proved this when he declared ‘Ladies to the Buffet’ and deftly stood to one side to avoid being crushed in the stampede. After a life in entertainment our Mike knows when to stand to one side, and so he should have as the food was excellent. The Town in Town has provided excellent food year after year and this time was no exception as they outdid themselves. Well done! They are exceptional hosts and we are always pleased with their support for our nights out.
Back to the night as Mike showed his versatility by giving us a few songs and as a professional entertainer it was well appreciated. Then onto the ‘Lucky Draw’ where the top prize of a gold chain was won by one of our regulars.
The night was then given over to what parties should be about, dancing and drinking until the small hours, and whilst not a dancer, I tried the rest and had a day off next day. T.T.F.N.

A lucky gold chain winner (center) celebrates with the presentation team.

PSC Charity Chairman, Bernie Tuppin (3rd left)
lines up with the Baan Jing Jai choir.

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

Planning is a virtue

A relaxed attitude towards life, exemplified in the phrase “may pen rai” (meaning something like “never mind”) is famously part of Thai culture.  However, such an attitude has its disadvantages when it comes to the bridge table, where planning is rather important to success.  The next hand is an example.
You are sitting South and are declarer in four spades, with no opposition bidding.  The king of hearts is led.  You see the North and South hands as below.  What is your plan for the contract? 

                    S: KJ8

                    H: 1086532

                    D: 74

                    C: Q7               

S: ?                                        S: ?

H: ?                                       H: ?

D: ?                                       D: ?

C: ?                                       C: ?

                    S: AQ1095

                    H: A

                    D: A32

                    C: A965 

I watched a “may pen rai” declarer play this at one table.  He won the ace of hearts and pulled trumps, ending on board.  He then paused to think about the hand, rather belatedly.  He led the queen of clubs from board, ducked it in hand and lost to West’s king.  The queen of hearts was led back, ruffed by declarer, who then led the ace of clubs and a low club, hoping for good news.  No such good luck.  In the end, he took only his five trumps and three outside aces, going down two.  As I left I heard him complaining about North’s bidding.
At the other table, declarer paused to plan the play right at the beginning.  She saw that she needed two more tricks to go with the five trumps and three outside aces.  Possibilities were the queen of clubs and club or diamond ruffs on board.  To get any ruffs, it was important not to pull trumps too early.
The best chance of making the club queen was if the king were with West.  So her first lead after winning the ace of hearts was a low club.  West went up with the king and led a spade to cut ruffs on board.  This was won on board and the queen of clubs cleared.
Now a diamond was led to the ace in hand and a low club was ruffed.  East showed out, but could not over ruff board and discarded a heart.  A diamond was led from board , and won by East.  Another trump came back, but it was too late.  Declarer won in hand, pulled trumps, took the ace of clubs and ended up losing only one club and two diamonds.
Even if the king of clubs had been with East, the result is the same - declarer simply ruffs two low clubs on board instead of just one.  Contract made, thanks to careful planning.
This was the full hand, with South dealer and EW vulnerable.  Would your plan have made the contract? 

                      S: KJ8

                      H: 1086532

                      D: 74

                      C: Q7          

S: 62                                  S: 743

H: KQ                                H: J974

D: 10986                            D: KQJ5

C: KJ1083                         C: 42

                      S: AQ1095

                      H: A

                      D: A32

                      C: A965        

I would like to hear from readers about their favourite hands—please do contact me at: [email protected].

Fortune wins by 2 at Navy

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Thursday, July 9, Plutaluang S&E (White tees) - Stableford
Fifteen of us turned up to take on the Navy layout. The courses here just keep on getting better and it was a gem of a day for golf: blue sky, light breeze and not too hot.
Jim Fortune made the most of the day, carding 37 points and incorporating the longest first putt on the eighteenth green for a gross birdie/net eagle. He was followed by Peter Mills in second place with 35 points, nudging Bob Rasmussen and Bob Drumm into third and fourth spots respectively on a count back. Willy Nachbur completed the winners’ rostrum on 34 points.

Thursday’s winner Jim Fortune.

Mike Todd-White had two near pin bonuses and yours truly and Mike King took the other two.
On leaving Pattaya our regular visitor ‘Buzz’ told Aka O’Reilly that his magic bullet buzzer sex toy was bust but Aka could have it if he liked. In possession of the broken buzzer Aka hacked, sawed, soldered, spliced, cleaned, oiled and otherwise attempted to repair the machine but to no avail. As a last desperate act Aka changed the batteries for new and the device buzzed and vibrated as good as the day it came out of the factory.
Elated and amazed by his mechanical skills Aka carted himself off to the nearest grab a grandpa bar where a most gorgeous grandpa grabber promptly propositioned the bog-eyed sexual scientist. However, on gleefully waving the buzzing buzzer about we are reliably informed that Aka was smartly told to buzz off and take his blinking (literally) buzzer with him!
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the group’s format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

Khao Kheow provides a tough test

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Monday, July 7, Khao Kheow - Stableford
This week we played on Monday due to Public Holiday on Tuesday, with Khao Kheow the chosen venue, as we had not been there for a long time. The Pete Dye designed course always provides a stern test off the yellow tees and today the A & C layouts were to be our challenge.

Ken and Ted with the Mountain Shadow caddies.

The best score negotiated was Ted Gardner’s (9) 33 points, just edging his playing partner Ian Hart’s (22) 31 points. The best of the rest was Jeff Wylie (7) with 30. Near Pins were snared by Ted and Jeff, with Nobby getting two.
All agreed that although the test was not managed well today, the course was a very fair test, with good shots rewarded, while the poor ones were punished, as it should be!
Thursday, July 9, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Thursday saw us tackle another of the more challenging courses in the area, with a trip to Mountain Shadow, to play off the blue tees. Again the tree lined fairways prove a handful for most golfers, as balls rattle amongst the trees, or in some cases stay up in the fronds, making a return to replay the shot the common option.
This week Jeff Wylie (7) best came to terms with the course, scoring 37 points, aided by a couple of bomb putts which were destined for 3 putt country, only the hole got in the way. Next best was Ted Morris (10) with 28 points, who battled with the trees, and the trees won. A nice birdie on the long par 5, 3rd hole was his highlight of the day.
Near Pins were won by Jeff and Nobby.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf on Tuesdays & Thursdays from Lake Mabprachan. Affiliated with the PSC, we access the coupons negotiated by the PSC, passing on the full discount to golfers. Currently in Low Season we also utilise Sport Day offers from other golf clubs. Tuesday 21/7 we head off to Emerald, while Thursday 23/7 we tackle Treasure Hill. Give Jeff a call on 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088 for scheduling details. Cheers & Good Golfing!

Veteran Don does it again

PSC golf from the Café Kronborg

Peter Blackburn
Monday, July 6, Plutaluang, South & East – Stableford
Once more a small faithful group of ten golfers headed off for the Navy course where we had a 09:30 hrs tee booking. Amongst us was Gary Bingham from California who had recently arrived for his annual visit.

Peter Blackburn.
The weather was looking good although someone in the bus happened to mention that he had been told by a “Weather Man” that there would be rain Monday & Tuesday. This guy was obviously “in the know” as after 8 holes on our front nine (South course) the heavens opened and we had to shelter in the vicinity of the old clubhouse for around 45 minutes. Nothing like the severe storm we experienced at Greenwood last Thursday, but persistent rain nonetheless. We were eventually able to continue and complete our round as the course dried out very quickly and apart from the first couple of greens after resumption the course played extremely well.
The conditions must have suited our group of three very well as we all featured in the top four and in first place with a score of 38 points and a much awaited return to some decent form was myself – Peter Blackburn. In second place, and if not for a second nine “fade-out” would probably have won (22 points on the front nine), was that very consistent golfer Marcel Wittwer with 36 points. The Richardson boys both had 32 points but Don managed to grab third place on a count back from Dave (The Admiral) who finished fourth.
Thursday, July 9, Green Valley – Stableford
It was never going to be easy fronting up for golf the morning after the PSC Summer Party, at least for some of us, but nonetheless 10 very keen (and some very hungover) golfers departed the Café Kronborg at 08:30 hrs on the dot. A short snooze in the minivan did little to improve my state of health but after a wait of around 45 minutes our first group teed off.

Don Richardson.
It was hot, steamy and there was initially very little wind, but spare a thought for the Admiral who broke his Driver during his first tee shot. Luckily he carries two Drivers and in actual fact hit the second one very well for the remainder of the round.
The course was as usual in excellent condition and whilst at first a couple of us had trouble judging the speed of the greens, I’m quite sure the after-effects of the night before was a major factor.
Predictably none of our group featured amongst the winners but the course held no problems for 72 (or 73) year old Don Richardson who took out first place with a marvelous 39 points. In compiling this score Don went round the second nine in 36 gross, even par. What a terrific effort from this veteran who can now look forward to his new handicap of 8 (playing off 9 today).
In second place and quite a long way behind Don was Daryl Evans with 33 points. In third place winning on a count back with 30 points was Walter Bachli, who once more stood out with his “flashy” outfits, and in fourth place also with 30 points was Graham Buckingham.

Rick Holmes marches home

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, July 6, Green Valley - Stableford
Division 1
1st Paul Taylor 37pts
2nd Dave Ashman 36pts
3rd Tomas Nilsson 36pts
Division 2
1st Robin Peach 36pts
2nd John Harris 36pts
3rd Kevin Hamilton 34pts
Back to Green Valley following the recent hiatus for the major competitions being held there, and a strong showing once again underlined the value that the players put on this popular course with enough of them turning up to require two divisions.
With the weather holding off for most of the round and only causing a couple of minor hold ups, the round progressed steadily although most of the field were unable to make much impression on their score cards and indeed only one of them able to better his handicap.
That player was Paul Taylor with a sterling one under handicap as he took the first division by a stroke from the chasing three. These were led in by Dave Ashman with a stunning 23 points on the back nine that easily won the count back from Tomas Nilsson, who took third after losing second with a count back of 18 and 13 on the back six, as Rodney Hayes could only scrape together 12 on the last six.
The second division was also a pretty close affair with Robin Peach just holding off John Harris with a better count back of 19 to the 18 and Kevin Hamilton a further two back in third place.
Brian Kelly swept the pool in the second division 2’s and Tony Barritt, Tomas Nilsson and David Ashman shared the first division pot.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new members to the Haven, Daniel Willits, Dave Ashman and Kevin Hamilton and also welcomed back Robin Peach.
Wednesday, July 8, Pattana A & B - Stableford
1st Rick Holmes 37pts
2nd Graham Davis 34pts
3rd Bob Lamond 34pts
4th Daniel Willits 33pts
The last chance to play Pattana out of Soi 13 before the IPGC Club Championship, albeit off very different tees to those that were to be used in the two day event starting on Wednesday the 15th and ending on Friday the 17th as those positions are a closely guarded secret until the day, saw a large contingent hoping to get some confidence going before the big day.
For the vast majority it turned out to be a disappointing outing as the course took its toll on the field, except notably for Rick Holmes who spent the day marching down the center of the fairways and although uncharacteristically struggling a little with the greens, still managed to finish three clear of a very strong group. This was led in by Graham Davis who took second spot with a better count back of 15 and then 11 on the back 6 followed by 5 on the back three and 4 on the last two as Bob Lamond could only muster 3 on the last two and had to settle for third.
Daniel Willits took his first podium placing at The Haven with a better 15 on the back nine to deny Alan Griffiths, in fifth with 14 and 10 on the last six and Chris Knapp with only 8 on the last six in sixth place.
The first division 2’s pool was shared between Tony Barritt, Keith Emerson and Paul Taylor whilst B. J. Smith had the only one in the second division.
Back at The Haven, The Doc welcomed back Graham Davis and Gordon Millar.
Friday, July 10, Greenwood A & C - Stableford
1st Sam McLellan 33pts
2nd Ray Trembath 32pts
3rd Tom McCarthy 31pts
4th Rodney Hayes 31pts
5th John Harris 31pts
Usually Greenwood on a week day can be a very simple task against ones handicap as the management tends to place the tees in a very forward position to ensure a quick turnaround of players, but Friday’s setting were well back, especially over the tougher C course and with the wind blowing extremely strongly scoring was at a premium. In fact so much so that the CSS went out to 75 and the day became non-counting for upward review.
Sam McLellan was the best of the day with a solid three over handicap round that was just enough to see off the final effort of Ray Trembath before he returns to OZ to get up in the middle of the night to watch the slaughter of the innocents.
Tom McCarthy led in the chasing group as he took the count back with a better 13 on the last six after 16 on the inward half, ahead of Rodney Hayes with 12 and John Harris with 11.
That rounded off a week of very tough golf and one not offering much encouragement for the players prior to the Championship week ahead, although the toughness needed this week will certainly be required in even greater measure and the experience should be helpful.
As the course was playing to its most difficult level, unsurprisingly there were no 2’s in either division.
Before the presentations Ross Kavanaugh was welcomed as a new member and Bill Broyer, Paul Pellizzari and Takeshi Hakozaki were welcomed back.

Hector and Kubon claim the medals

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, July 6, Bangpra – Monthly Medal
A few comments from others over the past week or so regarding the condition of the course and all 25 players out today were well impressed with what the club has done over the past few weeks, but this soon diminished when trying to book from October onwards, we were told that the earliest tee time is 11.42 any day of the week. So after our September game Jomtien Golf will see you in May …
Our medal competition of the month saw two net 74’s fighting for second and third and in division 1, but with an equal back nine score the pot was shared between Stuart Thompson and Emmett White. Keith Hector won the division with a net 71.
Bryan Rought scored net 76 to come third in division 2 while Joe Kubon beat Steve Ironside 35.5/37 on a back nine count back to claim top spot after they both finished on net 69.
Near pins went to Terry Cowell, Keith Hector, Mam Morel and Harry Vincenzi (Div.1), and Andy Crabb, Jimmy Johnson, Jean Morel and Les Winch (Div.2).
There was a warm welcome return today to Harry Vincenzi and Les Winch.
Friday, July 10, Eastern Star – Stableford
There has been a gradual weekly improvement after the course upgrades to various greens and this wont be far away next month from bringing a few more players back on a Friday. As always here it was a very hot and humid day with only a cool and pleasant breeze on some of the holes.
There were 16 out today in a two divisional stableford competition with the cut at 1-18 and a sad faced Terry Cowell came in second with 37 points, beaten by Harry Vincenzi by just one point. Steve Ironside won division 2 with 34 points, beating Tom Novak by 2 who took second on a back nine count back of 14/11 over Kalevi Luukkonen.

Benny O’Connor: “Golfer of the Month”

Monroe on the money at Green Valley

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Wednesday, July 8, Green Valley – Stableford
No golf on Monday which is probably the reason for such a high turn out today. This didn’t faze our new temporary organiser the German General, Helmet Helstrad. Not only did he organise the golf with his typical native precision, he also managed to take top spot for the day with 34 points. In the battle of the second best, left handed golfer Jeff North came out on top, just one point ahead of James Savage.
1st Helmet Hebstred 34pts
2nd Jeff North 32pts
3rd James Savage 31pts
Friday, July 10, Green Valley – Stableford
This was our second visit of the week to our favourite course Green Valley. It was made somewhat more special by the long awaited return of Dougie Caryforth. Dougie, at 76 years young, has been quite ill of late and it was great to see that his smiling face and his light hearted wit has not deserted him over the months he’s been away.
On a good day for scoring, Ben Findon kept up his good run of form to return 35 points, which was good enough for third place. In seconnd place was Michael Andersson with 37 points and the day’s winner with a very respectable 38 points was Andy Monroe.
1st Andy Monroe 38pts
2nd Micheal Anderson 37pts
3rd Ben Findon 35pts

Kevin’s day at Pattaya Country Club

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Some threatening clouds hinted at rain but none came as the early birds of the Three Sisters Group teed off at the Pattaya Country Club. It being Asa nha Pucha Day, the fees were a bit more than the norm, particularly for the weekday members and at 600 baht for a cart I felt I should be able to drive it home.

Winner Kevin Worl (left) with runner up Arnold Van Der Graaf.

The clouds hung over the players making play fairly comfortable until the turn when Father Sun came out in full force. On went the sun-block and it seemed that players were hitting as close as possible to shady spots on the fairways.
As everyone regrouped back at Caddy Shack II the cards were tallied. Kevin Worl with a handicap of 25 came cruising in with a 41 pointer followed by Arnold Van Der Graaf, also with a handicap of 25, with 38 points. The remainder of the pack came in with 34 on down. Coming in last with a 23, Paul Donahue claimed a recent double heart-stent operation as a handicap but was roundly booed by all.
As usual Herbie Ishinaga came through providing some nice sandwich pork loin slices. Other snacks and refreshments were in abundance.

Warburg fires 40- pointer at Great Lakes

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Thomas Cotton & Derek Brook
Monday, July 6, Pattana - Stableford
Our usual Tuesday morning outing was dislocated by the Thai holiday for Buddhist Lent, so instead we met at Bert’s on Monday and our numbers were somewhat depleted. Most of the golfers were jabbering about Wimbledon and most had stayed up late to see the men’s final, which some Swiss dandy had won.

Monday’s winner Perry McNeely (right) with runner up Steve Hamstad and Yam.

Out at Pattana there was a hive of activity since it appeared that several other groups were also playing there. This was to result in our game being somewhat slower than usual, but the golfers were quite happy with the modestly priced green fees at this very well-maintained 27-hole championship level course. We played off the yellow tees, which should have favoured the shorter hitters.
The weather started out quite fine, but quickly became overcast, breezy, then gusty, then rainy, then fine, then rainy again. The conditions frequently changed drastically from hole to hole and the golfers were kept busy with the rain gear and umbrellas.
Back at Bert’s our captain had only one flight with first and second place due to the small field. Our PSC Golf Chairman won again with 38 points ahead of Steve Hamstad, who took second on count back over Mick O’Meara.
There was also an additional winner, namely Colin Cronin, who tested Bert’s new “pour your own” 2 litre beer vessel. Colin was very pleased with it, but did warn about “evaporation” or carbonation dissipation. But that in no way impairs the dissipation of the user.
1st Perry McNeely 38pts
2nd Steve Hamstad 36pts
Near Pins: Neil Shaw, Steve Hamstad, Joel Flor, TC
Friday, July 10, Great Lakes - Stableford
Most of our regular players had never played this course so we decided to give it a try. We originally had booked at Bangpakong, but with little interest in the higher cost there we needed to find somewhere with less expensive green fees. Word was that Great Lakes, now called Rayong Country Club according to a temporary sign at the entrance and new score cards, was under new management and improvements to the condition of the course and off-course facilities were being made. So it was with anticipation that we set off after our golfers’ special breakfast at Bert’s.
The course was found in good condition, check-in was efficient and the locker room, while not large, had recently been renovated and was very acceptable. On the course, all bunkers had been machine groomed and the fairways provided an even lie except for a few barren areas. These had been noticed before we started so a rule of the day was declared to play these areas as GUR to avoid any problems. For the most part the greens were on the slow side but were smooth and true once the speed had been figured out. All in all it ended up being a very fine day, for a reasonable price, on a course that provides a challenge to the players.
In fact all the participants enjoyed their day so much that the organizer was instructed to book it again for next Friday. That didn’t bother the organizer at all as he had a good day and is perfectly willing to try it again, even off a lower handicap.
Back at Bert’s, the scores were recorded and the winners announced over food and beverages of choice. We play every Tuesday and Friday from Bert’s and all are welcome.
1st Dick Warberg (19) 40pts
2nd Tom Breslin (23) 37pts
3rd Daryl Evans (20) 36pts

Riley & Wichai in charge at Green Valley

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

Tuesday, July 7 was Asahna Buccha Day, a public holiday when golf courses are traditionally crowded, and so it was with trepidation that the Pattaya Golf Society visited Green Valley for their monthly medal event. Great Joy! The course was empty mid morning when the group set off the first tee.
The course had been refreshed by recent heavy rain and was playing superbly and so a good competition was in prospect.
Medal play is all about skill and the lower handicappers held all the aces as Dave Stockman and Chris Voller fired the best gross scores of the day, 78, Dave coming fourth with net 73, one behind Chris’s net 72. Consistent Harry Riley found his form with a fine net score of 71 to tie the lead with Wichai Tananusorn.
Wichai, Chris Voller and visitor Tony Connelly all shared the ‘2’s pot and Len Jones, having recorded double figures on one hole took the Booby Bevy in place of the absent Bill Pickersgill whose had gone one better (or worse?) on the first.
Despite the Buddhist celebration of the good Lord’s first sermon, the presentation was a simple affair in the alcohol-free atmosphere of Rabbi’s Elephant Bar in a much subdued Soi Buakhao, but nevertheless it had been a very good “holiday” at Green Valley.
van der Wiele’s turn at the top
The Pattaya Golf Society took a trip up route 331 on Thursday, July 9, to play a stableford round at Greenwood over the C and A nines, and found the course in excellent condition. The greens were faster than anyone could remember here and made a change from some of the more pedestrian surfaces the group have putted on recently.
Results went against recent form with the higher handicappers enjoying a good day. Making his podium debut was Michael Sim whose 35 points was a fine reward for the Bangkok based Englishman. Ireland’s Larry Slattery turned in another creditable performance with a second placed 36 points whilst Emiel van der Wiele came good at last with an excellent 37 point score. It could have been even better, hitting all fourteen fairways as he did, but the inevitable three putts on some greens cost him dear.
There were no birdie ‘2’s, the pot being absorbed into the main prizes and Scotsman Colin Orr, making his debut in the Kingdom, received the Booby Bevy after a miserable start which saw the full gamut of bad shots. His round improved markedly and he eventually played the back nine in level par.
The slick greens had certainly added some sparkle to golf at Greenwood.
Belgian doubles up
The Pattaya Golf Society paid its monthly weekend visit to Pattana on Saturday, July 11 to play a stableford event over the A and B nines. Coincidentally it proved to be a timely fixture as the IPGC Annual Championship was to be played there only a few days later and the experience would be invaluable.
The moderate field was treated to a course in fine condition and suffered a strong wind for the first dozen or so holes, making it even more of a test.
Surviving the elements were Bob St Aubin and John Rehm, recently returned from Switzerland to collect his annual bonuses, and both posted returns of 32 points for a share of third place. Currently in-form Thai golfer Wichai Tananusorn returned 33 points for second place whilst Emiel van der Wiele completed an excellent back-to-back double with the win on 34 points. Both Wichai and Emiel should be in good spirits for the “big ‘un” later in the week.
Jens Gunnarsson took the ‘2’s pot with a fine birdie on the testing par-three A3 which was over water into the teeth of the wind.
Martin Solberg was making his PGS debut and duly received the Booby Bevy after a low scoring round, but thoroughly enjoyed his day nevertheless. It had been a good pipe-opener at Pattana.

Soapbox time

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
Sometimes I find I just have to climb on my soapbox and let off a little steam. This week I am afraid is one of those weeks. Why you may ask? Well from time to time I am advised of many things referencing our outings and I think to myself, “That just does not make any sense.”

Thursday’s winner at Phoenix John Franklin poses with Saturday’s winner George Robinson and runner up Liam Horgan.

For example I am told this week that certain courses are now actively enforcing a payment if you have a learner member who only wants to just watch and go out around the course with a friend but not play. This despite the fact that you are probably bringing in to the course at the time some twenty playing/paying golfers regularly. Why?
The other thing that has raised my heckles is an old one, and I actually had one editor e mail and tell me that he did not know that this was still going on. Well believe me it still is. What you may ask? It’s boosting the entry costs to regular weekly visiting golfing groups over the holidays. When will the courses realize that this action totally defeats the object of the exercise and that regulars will not put up with it and just not come, but go to alternative venues who use there heads and look after regular clients.
Even more to the point, when are all the varied golfing organisations in Pattaya (you all know who I mean) going to get their heads together to bring some pressure to bear collectively which only they can and put an end to these things for good. Well with that off my chest it is back to the golf.
Monday, July 6, Pattana – Stableford
1st Ray Trembath (9) 41pts
2nd Bill Ostle (18) 38pts
3rd Ted Senior (15) 32pts
4th George Bishop (14) 31pts
5th George Robinson (11) 31pts
We took a visit to Pattana on Monday July 6 to play the A & B courses. We had a good turnout and judging by the scores returned there was some good play on the day.
One player who keeps on popping in for trips out with us is Ray Trembath. It seems that when he does he brings his best game as well. This was one of those days as he stormed through the field with a great forty-one pointer, leaving all in his wake. Bill Ostle found himself three back at thirty-eight for second and the third man Ted Senior was a further six back at thirty-two.
Ray also managed a ‘2’ but found that he had to share this with Peter Morris.
Note: There was no play on Tuesday this because the course we had booked and visit regularly all year did the usual upping the anti financially as it was a local holiday. So the members who had intended to play decided a stand had to be made and cancelled the trip.
Thursday, July 9, Phoenix (Mountain & Lake) - Stableford
1st John Franklin (12) 37pts
2nd Ted Senior (15) 36pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (16) 34pts
4th Markku Tynell (24) 33pts
The second visit this month and our regular Thursday outing to Phoenix (Mountains & Lakes). The course as ever was great and we had a better turnout this week but still just one division.
Fourth spot went to Markku Tynell after winning the count back over Fergus Brennan with his thirty-three points. In third was Roger Wilkinson with thirty-four and Ted Senior made it one better than Tuesday in second with thirty-six. The winner was John Franklin with thirty seven points for his third win in two weeks.
There were no ‘2’s so the customary bell ring back at the Travellers Rest.
Saturday, July 11, Green Valley - Stableford
1st George Robinson (12) 40pts
2nd Liam Horgan (13) 39pts
3rd Michael Moreton (25) 33pts
4th John Franklin (12) 31pts
Saturday, July 11 was one of our regular weekend visits to Green Valley with just a moderate turnout.
Places were awarded to third with Mike Moreton taking that honour with thirty-three points. Second place went to Liam Horgan who admitted to me that he had one of his best games for a long time and must have thought he was in with chance of a win with his great thirty-nine pointer and nineteen on the back nine. But he was to be disappointed as George Robinson came home with twenty-one points and a total of forty to steal it off him. And George was not finished there as he also made the ‘2’s all his own with a great putt on the ninth. A great day’s play and well done George!

Milner & Merrick make a winning combo

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, July 6, Burapha – 2 Man Scramble
Rosco’s format for his Outbacker Birthday Cup was a two man Ambrose (to the Aussies) also known as a scramble. Eighteen teams assembled at the start of the A & B course, this time, as it was a ‘fun day’, from the shorter white tees. Burapha was busy, maybe due to the extended holiday period surrounding the upcoming Asamha Bucha Day and Buddhist Lent Day. However, it wasn’t too bad and teeing off, slightly ahead of schedule, most were round in about four hours.

Jack, with Birthday boy Rosco (complete with Tam o’Shanter) and Capt’ Bob following Monday’s outing to Burapha.

The course was in pretty good shape although there were some inexplicable patches of dead grass on some tee boxes and the weather behaved, albeit it did appear that everybody was going to get a serious dousing from a storm approaching from Laem Chabang. Somehow, only the edge passed over Burapha and it disappeared as quickly as it arrived, to give way to pleasant playing conditions for the remainder of the round.
The usual crowd of Outbackers were joined by some of B1 & B2’s mates, presumably from the West Coast and B1 (aka Bruce Milner) conveniently picked the best one of these as his partner, to shoot a gross 68 (net 63) to win the day by one shot from the probable pre-tournament favourites, Simon Philbrook & Jeff Calrow. The ‘Blackwells’ were snapping hard on the heals of the front groups, just 0.75 of a shot back to take third, and the consistent team of Joe & Kevin completed the podium in fourth with 65.75
The birthday boy, playing with Pottsy, got off to a shaky start (to be fair he had had a heck of a day/evening on Sunday), both hitting poor tee shots on the first hole but Rosco bent a long shot round a tree to just off the green from where they scrambled down in two for their par. Pottsy continued to hold the team together on the front nine culminating in his chipping in for birdie on the long par 4 eighth.
On the back nine it was a complete role reversal as Rosco started to come good and Pottsy inexplicably couldn’t hit the ball. They must have rued their missed chances finishing just half a shot outside the top four teams.
Back at the ranch, the heavens opened up for the rest of the day but it did not deter the many that turned up to share Rosco’s birthday and enjoy the chicken green curry and cottage pie (courtesy Rosco). Needless to say copious amounts of various beverages were consumed until late into the evening as the rain continued to fall.
Other prizes were available; longest drive on A9 (the fairway is only about 15 yards wide) – Div A (0-12) going to Joe Mooneyham; Div B (13–16) Kevin Moraghan (it was actually longer than Joe’s) and Div C went to David Davies. Closest 3rd shot to the pin on B6; Div A, Simon Philbrook; Div B, Kevin Moraghan and Div C, nobody stayed on the green.
The usual ‘2’s were up for grabs, of which there were nine: Capt’ Bob, Pat Regan, Joe Mooneyham, Geoff Doody, Doug Douglas, John Merrick, Tony Garnett, Murray Hart & Charlie Sheppard shared the pot.
1st Bruce Milner & John Merrick, net 63
2nd Simon Philbrook & Jeff Calrow, net 64
3rd Apple Blackwell & Eddie Blackwell, net 64.75
4th Joe Mooneyham & Kevin Moraghan, net 65.75
Tuesday, July 7, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
It was a holiday today but with a number of regular Outbackers being members, they were able to sign guests in at a reasonable rate, bringing the number to 12 who played in the regular Tuesday competition.
Welcome to Christophe Mespreuve, a Belgium working in Beijing, here for just a week at the recommendation of his colleague, Wolfgang. He was due for a few days off and wanted to relax and play some golf. Wolfgang, also based in Beijing, suggested going to Pattaya to play golf with the Outback, they’ll pick you up at the airport, you can stay in their resort adjoining the bar, they’ll look after you. So far he has played two rounds of golf, met loads of new friends but we’re not sure how much time he has had to relax.
The course was not very busy and in a fair condition following the heavy rain the night before.
With no ‘2’s (although many near misses we hear!) it went to four places. Top spot went to today’s writer, the in form – Nigel Cannon (23) with 40 points, receiving an immediate h’cap cut to 22.0, in keeping with the PSC handicap committee ruling – unlike some other venues that seem to take it upon themselves to blatantly disregard the rules!
In second place was Nigel’s good friend Bob Pearce (12) with 36 points and third went to the other Pearce, ‘Alan’ (18) on 35. The last spot went to today’s organiser ‘Our Chad’, Barry Chadbourn (20) with 34.
The Outback play at Pattaya Country Club every Tuesday at around 09:30 with some good golf and good company, as Christophe discovered.
1st Nigel Cannon (23) 40pts
2nd Bob Pearce (12) 36pts
3rd Alan Pearce (18) 35pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts
Tuesday, July 9, Green Valley - Stableford
A good gaggle of 19 Outbackers at the Valley today, maybe after the two day ‘alcohol free’ holiday break, a few extra fancied a hit. The scores were moderate, with that ‘stunning’ John Lawton doing enough (the only player to h’cap) scoring 36 points to win Div A and the top score of the day.
Christophe Mespreuve, who has been with the Outback all week on his break from China, won his first tournament with an excellent 35 points to take Div B. Geoff Doody grabbed second on 33 and Paul Quodomine, who has been out in the ‘also rans’ for sometime, found his way back to the winners enclosure with 29.
There was another ‘jackpot 2’ from Suzi Lawton.
Div A (0-18)
1st John Lawton (16) 36pts
2nd Norm Cheetham (18) 35pts
3rd Patrick Regan (9) 34pts
Div B (19+)
1st Christophe Mespreuve (28) 35pts
2nd Geoff Doody (20) 33pts
3rd Paul Quodomine (31) 29pts
Friday, July 10,
Laem Chabang – Stableford
Forty one Outbackers squeezed their way up the narrow path to the first hole on Mountain, where shuffling the golf carts around is severely restricted, making it difficult to get all the groups in the right order. This can make getting underway a frustrating exercise particularly when there are 41 golf carts, caddies and players all jockeying for position.
It’s made worse by the fact that the first hole on Mountain has to be one of the most feared starting holes for most golfers - to say it’s easy would be a lie. There is plenty of room down there on the fairway but the eye doesn’t see that way and the poor old brain just receives a series of scrambled messages, which totally destroys a golf swing that is about to have it’s first exercise of the day.
Before moving on to the results, just another reminder about slow play: The course was perfectly clear for the front groups who completed their rounds comfortably in well under four hours, which is dead easy when you have one cart per person and carts allowed on the course. Somewhere around the middle, there was at least one group of golfers who were selfishly only out there for themselves, totally oblivious to fellow players and taking as long as they liked and even continuing to play when they could not score. This is not the spirit of golf, particularly at the Outback and those players will find themselves in future going out towards the back of the field. Please remember - Keep up with the group in front!
The course was once again in excellent condition with the weather about as good as it can get with plenty of sun, a light breeze and pleasant temperature setting the sails well for some good scoring.
Eddie Blackwell holed his second shot out of a bunker for an eagle on the 4th Lake (his 13th) on his way to 39 points to win Div A, this from three players all with 36 points headed by John Merrick, with Apple back in third.
Chris Davisson, who is now attracting the handicap secretary’s attention, looking increasingly comfortable playing off 12, turned in another good round scoring 38 points to win Div B from George Bishop (36pts) and another three players all with 35.
Top score of the day went to John Stafford, following his success here three weeks ago, with 40 points today to take Div C by seven from Sid Ottaway (33) and one of the Aussie visitors, Hec Cooper (32).
There were a total of six ‘2’s from Paul Greenaway, Rick Evans, Chris Davisson, George Cousins, Ian Halfpenny and Eddie Blackwell.
Div A (0–11)
1st Eddie Blackwell (8) 39pts
2nd John Merrick (7) 36pts
3rd Apple Blackwell (9) 36pts
Div B (12-17)
1st Chris Davisson (12) 38pts
2nd George Bishop (16) 36pts
3rd Bob Lindborg (16) 35pts
Div C (18+)
1st John Stafford (21) 40pts
2nd Sid Ottaway (24) 33pts
3rd Hec Cooper (21) 32pts
Friday, July 10,
The Emerald - Stableford
With some 41 playing at Laem Chabang today it was just a handful (4) that went to the alternative venue - The Emerald.
It was very quiet but the course was in great shape following the recent rain and the greens were speedy.
With perfect weather it was decided that it would be a ‘winner takes all’ today plus ‘2’s.
It soon became a match play between Henry O’Brien and ‘Chad’ Barry Chadbourn, with both having a handicap of 20. It went down to the 18th where ‘Chad’ had a par 5 and Henry had a double bogey 7, resulting in a win for Barry by 2 strokes.
There was just the one ‘2’ from Henry.
The four enjoyed the day and thanks to Barry he had nothing to take home after we had a few in the bar. Thanks Barry.
Note: 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.

Shake up in the standings

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Ooy, Rich, Tue and Leo.

Lots of teams moved up or down in the standings this week and only three teams remain in the same position as they were in last week.
Sala Thai remains in first place taking after three points from Brother D and sending Brother D down from third to fourth. Somrak rolled a 536 series for Sala Thai.
Café Kronborg remains in second place after taking three points from a falling Sabai Sabai Friday team. Green Chilli moved up two positions to third after they took three points from Swethai. Tue Pettae, bowling as a Pacer, had a great day with games of 233, 183 and 211 for a 637, second highest for ladies in this league.
Café Ole moved from tenth to seventh place after taking four points from Jack Tar with Rich Montana leading Ole with games of 206, 199 and 223 for a 628 series. Bavaria also moved up two places after taking three points from VFW Post 9876. Leo Kretscher bowled 221 and 204 games, 592 series for Bavaria and Joe Ferral had a 517 series for VFW.
Indiana moved up to tenth place and out of last as they took all four points from Canada. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 540 series for Canada.

Pattaya Sports Club Sunday Softball

Diego Wells
Softball Sunday has grown up recently. Much more avid athletes flock to the Diamond every week, and many even show up for the Wednesday 3 p.m. batting and fielding practices. Weekly bowling outings (Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at lanes across from Big C) have added to the camaraderie of the fellas.

Perry pitching under a grey sky that eventually washed out the softball action.
With the new influx of participants a decision had to be made as to how to accommodate everyone and at the same time, increase competition. As our leaders of this wonderful country can attest to - with growth must come change.
Last Sunday a preview, 3 team tournament was arranged. Left fielders Mark Reynolds, John Stockton and yours truly were given the role of captains and together drafted their teammates.
Team Mark and Team John played a very tight first match which ended in an 11-10 victory for Mark’s boys. Unfortunately, a huge rain and wind storm washed out the remaining games. But the initial game showed that this format can lead to quick, hotly contested battles, and this was much welcomed by most of the players.
Pattaya softball is now proud to announce that it is running a Summer Series Softball Tournament starting this month. We will organize the ageless athletes into 3 competitive teams, and have each team play a double header of 5 inning games. The winning team will be crowned champions at a favourite bar of the ballers, ensuring that everyone will come out winners. So why not join up, and come out to softball, Wednesday at 3 p.m. for practice, and Sunday at 1 p.m. for the tournament. We are still looking for a few good men!

Tuesday night bowling for Softballers: They play at 8 p.m. at Pattaya Plus
(across from Big C and 2nd Road near north Pattaya
and are always looking for new members.

Pattaya Backgammon League

Gabriel Davis
This week the tournament was played to completion with Daeng eventually emerging victorious against yours truly in a 15 point match. This puts K. Daeng in the black for the December master points race. Players with zero points are not listed.

Pos.   Player               Month      Year
1         Gabriel Davis      13.3         13.3
2         Joe Somchai         10            10
3         K. Daeng              6.6           6.6
4         K. Lhod               5.14         5.14
5         K. Doon               5.14         5.14

The P.B.L. (Pattaya Backgammon League) held this event at Somboons Restaurant on Jomtien Beach and had 4 new players partake in this every Saturday tournament, held in open air. Unfortunately, two players couldn’t make it on time as the event is scheduled to start at 13:00 with a 30 minute grace period. Registration is open at 12:00 Noon.

Daeng got back into the black last week for the December master points race.

For further information online at www .blot.asia or www.pattayabackgammon leauge.com.
July 12 sees the start of the 34th World Championship, held each year in Monte Carlo. By the next issue we should have a new world champion. No players from the P.B.L. are entered this year, although many in the last 14 years have. September 20 is the Japan Open in Shibuya (currently the PBL is putting together a satellite tournament to send a representative, anyone interested please let us know). Aug 7, the Australian Masters/Queensland Championship and Aug 1, the 3rd Gogi Bukia Georgian Open in Tbilisi, Georgia. Oct 6 brings us the Moroccan High Stakes Open in Marrakech, Morocco.

Mickey Mouse Friday Night Dart League

Results & Standings July 10 (week 16)

Stars have now dropped out of the league: the results have been amended to show game & beer wins for all matches played against Stars and those teams still to play Stars will have a bye, and be awarded both honors.
The Rising Sun played away at O’Leary’s, and whilst the Lepracorns were practicing their Irish Jig, the Sunshine Boys took both game & beer, and in doing so scored 3 X 180. Darts Chris, Mark, and Ray. (I notice Lance’s name is not on the 180 list!).
OK Corral hosted Palmers and Mandy (Palmers) said, “There is no way we are going to lose 3 weeks in a row.” Hmm, it was the kiss of death me thinks as The Posse took both the honors.
Lucky Time played away at Cheers and 8 matches into the game the score stood at 4-4. Worried glances were passed between TLT players and fingers of blame were ready to be pointed at the expectant loss. The chink in Lucky Times armor was spot welded in time for TLT to take the game, have a nice Chicken Curry, and then take the beer. The fingers of blame were put away unfired, but it was a timely reminder that it’s a funny old game!
The Bunker hosted the Blue Mountain where The Bunker Boys played an aggressive front 9 to take the game, with the Coffee Shop Quartet taking on board refreshments and playing a blinding back 9 to take the beer.
With 2 games left to play in the season the league trophy still does not know where it will be resting for the next 3 months. Stealing a line from Stingray, “anything can happen in the next half hour.” Will the Sunshine Boys, against the odds, retain the trophy? Will Melly’s Crew kidnap other team players and hold them captive in the dungeon for the next 2 weeks? Has Capt’ Mick got a plan more cunning than a very, very cunning plan? Did Gorgeous George lend Team Lucky Time his broken GPS in the hope that TLT will get lost on their way to their next 2 venues? Has Big C had a new consignment of dusters arrive? Will Lance ever get a mention again in dispatches?
I’m going for a lay down, it’s just too exciting to think about!