SPORTS
HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Asian Cricket Sixes Tour heading to Pattaya

Asian Body Building and Fitness Championships to be held in Pattaya

Chonburi go top as United’s derby win eases relegation fears

Nearly 300 disabled athletes compete in Redemptorist Games

Nongprue mini-marathon to benefit Public Health Center

Murphy tops as a new face visits the podium

Wireless on full blast

The lost treasure of Pattaya golf

Thunderbolt kid storms to victory

Jaycock is the man in form

Blacky does it again

Minor bird causes major problem for Rick Montana

Golfers find ‘the Mountain’ in benevolent mood at 89th PSC monthly

Thorne a week too late

Rod Howett the best of the week

Smith goes sub-70 at Phoenix

Milner sets the pace at Phoenix

‘Oldies’ destroy ‘Pretty Boys’ in double header softball Sunday

Bridge in Paradise

Café Kronborg takes over first place

Priak’s dry spell over

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

Asian Cricket Sixes Tour heading to Pattaya

Directors of the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour completed their AGM on Monday July 20 with ACST Chairman Michael ‘Cat’ Maher very satisfied with outcome of the meeting, held in Pattaya, which concluded with the announcement of two new events.
“It was a very productive 4 days, which included creative brainstorming, contributions from our regional ACST Ambassadors and Representatives, and several important strategic decisions,” said ‘Cat’.
“We considered a substantial number of new event initiatives and I’m pleased to report that the Board approved the creation and inclusion of two new sixes events onto the Tour, in Vietnam and Pattaya.”
“Both are very attractive locations with little cricket at present, so are great places to promote our sport and have an enjoyable time doing so.
“In 2008 we worked very hard, along with our event partners the Southerners, to introduce a new tournament to the circuit, the Thailand Sixes, which was a tremendous success and may grow into one of the most popular events on the Tour.
“That we are confident to be able to stage new events in the current world economic climate is a testament to the growing popularity of the ACST core ethos of ‘friendship through cricket” and the enjoyment cricketers and their friends and family get from being at ACST tournaments. It also reflects well on our local partners at each event and their commitment to putting on a great show.
“We’re looking forward to another positive 12 months of growth for the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour and spreading the message of ‘friendship through cricket,” Maher concluded.
For further information about the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour see the ACST website www. cricketsixes.com.


Asian Body Building and Fitness Championships to be held in Pattaya

The 2009 Multi Asian Building and Fitness Championships
begin August 11 at the Alangkarn Theatre in Pattaya.

The Thai Bodybuilding Association in collaboration with Pattaya City, Sports Authority of Thailand, Siam Sport Syndicate Plc, Thai Alangkarn Theatre in Pattaya and Eastern Grand Palace Hotel will organise The 2009 Multi Asian Building and Fitness Championships to help promote sports awareness as well as tourism within Thailand. The championships, scheduled for 11-17 August 2009, will be held at Thai Alangkarn Theatre in Pattaya. During the event, some 40 Thai bodybuilding, fitness and body fitness athletes of the Thai Bodybuilding Association will compete with athletes from 45 countries across Asia.


Chonburi go top as United’s derby win eases relegation fears

PM Reporters
Chonburi FC consolidated their position at the top of the Thai Premier League standings with an impressive 2-1 away win at BEC Tero last Sunday. Pipob On-mo opened the scoring for the Chonburi ‘Sharks’ in the 7th minute and following further pressure, Kriangkrai Pimrat doubled the lead for the visitors before half time. The hosts pulled a goal back in the second half through Chakrit Buathong but Chonburi held out to secure all three points.

Pattaya United’s Brazilian star Paulo Roberto (right) battles for the ball with Sri Racha’s Umpai Mutaporn at the Princess Sirindhorn Stadium, Sunday, July 26. United won the game 1-0. (Photo/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

Meanwhile, at the Sirindhorn ground in Sri Racha on the same evening, Pattaya United secured a vital victory over their neighbours Sri Racha FC thanks to a lone 76th minute strike from Paisarn Pona and give new head coach Jadet Meelap his fist win in charge of the club.
With both teams on the same points and teetering on the edge of the relegation zone at the start of play, a win was vitally important to both sides, but it was the Pattaya ‘Dolphins’ who prevailed on the day and the three points sees them now rise to 10th place in the league. Sri Racha meanwhile have slumped to second from bottom place, still stuck on 13 points.
At the opposite end of the table, Chonburi’s win sees them clear at the top with thirty-three points, three clear of their closest rivals Bangkok Glass who lost last weekend against TOT FC.
Pattaya United’s next league match is a home game at the Nongprue stadium against Nakhon Pathom FC this coming Sunday, August 2. Kick off is at 5 p.m.


Nearly 300 disabled athletes compete in Redemptorist Games

Vimolrat Singnikorn
Nearly 300 athletes vying to advance to the National Sports for People with Disabilities Competition took the field at Pattaya Redemptorist Vocational School last week for the 22nd Redemptorist Games.

The torch is lit to officially open the Games.
The exhibition, which featured 294 competitors in 12 internationally recognized sports, kicked off July 23. Winners advanced to the national competition in Trang, Oct. 24-28.
A parade of athletes and school children from Pattaya School 8 started the festivities, followed by the opening gong and a sportsmanship oath. Over the three-day event, competitors dueled it out in track and field, swimming, futsal, takraw, stand/sit volleyball, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, table tennis, badminton, petanque, weightlifting, and wheelchair fencing.
A highlight of the competition was the annual football match between VIP Pattaya & VIP Pattaya Redemptorists, which drew lots of applause and cheers, including laughter from all of the attendees.

Athletes line up during the opening ceremony of the 22nd Redemptorist Games at Pattaya Redemptorist Vocational School.

Pattaya School 8 students perform at the games.


Nongprue mini-marathon to benefit Public Health Center

Nongprue Deputy Mayor Anek Patana-Ngam, Mayor Mai Chaiyanit and Araya Kaewkongtham, director of the Nongprue Public Health and Environment Division hold a press conference to announce the Nongprue Mini-Marathon.

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
About 2,000 runners are expected to take part in the first Nongprue Mini-Marathon, a charity event aimed at raising funds for medical equipment at the Nongprue Public Health Center, Aug. 9 at Mabprachan Reservoir.
Nongprue Mayor Mai Chaiyanit said at a July 21 press conference the 10.5 km race is also intended to honor HM the Queen’s birthday on Aug. 12. The 90-minute race will start at 5:30 p.m.
Participants will pay 200 baht to enter the race and will receive a T-shirt. The first 500 runners will also get a medal and a key ring will be given to first 1,000 to register. There will also be a free 4 km walk.
Deputy Mayor Anek Patana-Ngam said registration will start at the reservoir at 8:30 a.m. Runners will be grouped by age, with men’s divisions split for those 17-29 and for those in their 30s, 40s. 50s and 60 on up. Women will be grouped in brackets for those aged 17-29 and in their 30s, 40s, and 50 and over.
The route will follow the banks of the Mabprachan Reservoir on Chaiyapornwithee and Pornprapanimit roads. For more information contact the Public Health and Environment Division of Nongprue Municipality at 038-249-820 ext. 116.


Murphy tops as a new face visits the podium

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

The Three Sisters group hit the Pattaya Country Club around 6 a.m. for a 6:30 tee off. The course was in good shape with the fairways recently mowed and the greens still being worked on but in good condition.

Winner Dale Murphy (left) with runner up Piranan Phanchai.

The weather could not have been more agreeable: cloudy with a peeking sun. There were thunderstorms all around but the lead group on the 18th hole only got a sprinkling of rain.
After the round the players adjourned to Caddy Shack II where the score cards were tallied. Dale Murphy, frequently at the top, came in with a best of the day 39 points. Right behind him was Piranan Phanchai, a first timer with Three Sisters, having a 38-point round. Joe St. Laurent followed on 37. The remainder dribbled down to a low of score of 24, whose owner will not be named but for once it was not Paul Donahue.
Herbie Ishinage provided snacks and delicious sandwich ham slices and there was no shortage of beverages.


Wireless on full blast

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, July 19, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Brian Wilkinson (13) 39pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 37pts
3rd Sonny Crawford (9) 36pts
B Flight
1st Stan Dismuck (19) 41pts
2nd John Squitero (20) 40pts
3rd Alec Hoare (17) 39pts
Ladies
1st Kathy Doody (17) 33pts
2nd Michele Fell (25) 30pts
Near Pins: #2 Kathy Doody, #9 Robin Peach, #12 Bob Newell, #16Adam Farrell
The previous week at Green Valley, ‘The Wireless’ had been a no show, but this week it was nearly his own show. The Wireless is back and in top form: “You could hear him a mile away!”

Peter Hynard was a double winner last week.

Brian kept up the good work after a 69 at Bang Chang the day before, posting a mouth-watering 39 points to top the senior flight; needless to say you are more than likely to hear about this before you read it. Seamus V C filled second spot two shots adrift of the Wireless. Sonny “Tiger” Crawford, whose putter was not quite at its best, filled the flight out with a solid net par round.
The junior flight provided the day’s MoM winner as Stan Dismuck carded an almost flawless 41 points. John Squitero was only a shot adrift of Stan in second and Co Dublin’s Alec Hoare rounded out the flight with a good 39 points; this was with the aid of a count back decision over Chas the Sheppard.
Stan Dismuck, Alec Hoare, Robin Peach, Seamus Cotter and Terry Mangan shared the ‘2’s pot.
Back at the ranch the Wireless was on full blast, as per usual after a win. Obviously for once he had a caddy who knew what she was doing (or was she just plain deaf?).
Tuesday, July 21, Treasure Hill - Stableford
A Flight
1st Mike Shrosbree (13) 37pts
2nd Benny O’Connor (7) 36pts
B Flight
1st Peter Henshaw (16) 41pts
2nd Peter Webb (?) 40pts
Every now and again the Lewiinski’s crowd likes to pit their skills against the challenging Treasure Hill. Peter the President led the way with a massive 41 points to take B Flight and secure the man of the match honours. He was chased all the way by Peter Webb, who shot a creditable 40 points which would normally win on this course, but who had to settle this time for runner up spot.
Mike “The new man of leisure” Shrosbree took the top rung in A Flight with an impressive 37 point haul. Benny O’Connor put together a fine even par round to fill out the flight.
Mike Shrosbree, Peter Henshaw, Michelle Fell and Peter Webb split the ‘2’s pot.
The standard of play was pretty good, especially given the earache they got on Sunday night.
Wednesday, July 22, Greenwood - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Hynard (12) 39pts
2nd Vic Hestor (13) 39pts
B Flight
1st Michele Fell (25) 38pts
2nd Peter Webb (20) 35pts
A good squad of Lewiinski’s best travelled down the 331 to play a stableford comp at the Greenwood G C.
Making the best of the mild weather was Peter Hynard and Vic Hestor, who were locked together on 39 points - Peter taking first place via a 19 /17 back nine score. Simon Spalding, playing off a one handicap, posted a magnificent 38 points for nowt. Simon did however post the only ‘2’ of the day.
Michele Fell took the top spot in B Flight with a super 38 points, Peter Web was four shots back to take second place.
Friday, July 24, Emerald - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Hynard (12) 37pts
2nd Geoff Kubas (21) 37pts
A small but brave contingent of Lewiinski’s best arrived at the Emerald to battle it out on this challenging layout. Peter Hynard and Geoff Kubas found the conditions to their liking, as both posted top scores of 37 points apiece: Peter edging Geoff by the slenderest of margins (22/21) to take the days honors.
Bob Newell notched the only ‘2’ of the day, to conclude this weeks golf.
I heard it on the Wireless
“Golf - A colorful sport that keeps you on the green, in the pink, and financially in the red.”
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in, and add your name to the list or call Bob on 080 096 8232. Transport is provided.


The lost treasure of Pattaya golf

PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Jeff Wylie
Tuesday, July 21, Treasure Hill - Stableford
Just the one game for Mulligans Lakeside this week; at the fabulous Treasure Hill, Golf & Country Club, which is truly one of the best courses in the area, providing a good test for all who challenge it, while in an idyllic setting, surrounded by rolling hills and unspoilt native vegetation (jungle).
I know, I have heard all the whinges, it’s too hard, too long, the bunkers are soft, well on this day the course was in the best condition I have seen it. The management continues to upgrade the course, with hazard markers, cart paths, etc, which will eventually result in its price being reflected in these improvements.
On the day it was your humble correspondent Jeff Wylie (7) who came to terms best with the course, scoring 39 points from the white tees. Next best were Ray Ryan (23), who walked the course today, and John Chapman (25), John just edging Ray on the back 9.
We were joined today by some visitors from Australia who wanted to re visit Treasure Hill, after they had been impressed earlier in the week. I spoke to Peter and Jan Webb from Melbourne who were making the most of their golfing holiday and were looking forward to more golf before going home.
I will digress briefly to say how good it was to see Herbie Ishinaga, the PSC President, along with several more of the current EC at the Monthly Tournament held at Mountain Shadow. I hope others follow the lead and attend in the future, maybe even all the Golf Handicap Committee could attend, as after all this is a golf fixture, only William Macey was there, this time.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday (we sometimes change to accommodate a Thai Holiday). Presentations are made at the course on Tuesday, with Mulligans Lakeside hosting the Thursday presentation.
For more details on scheduling etc, please call Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088. PS: Jeff is away in Australia for a few weeks, call Ray.
Hope to see you there, Cheers & Good Golfing!


Thunderbolt kid storms to victory

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s ‘four tops’ (from left): Derek Brook,
 Frank Pilkington, Thomas Cotton and Perry McNeely.

Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, July 21, Green Valley - Stableford
Although still July, a rather august group of golfers assembled at Bert’s on Tuesday morning to wage war on Green Valley Rayong, a lovely course, not far from Pattaya. At breakfast, many of the golfers were lamenting Tom Watson’s weekend loss of the British Open. Like Watson, Green Valley’s designer, Peter Thompson, won the British Open five times.
So we ambled out to the course which was blanketed by dark clouds. As we started to tee-off, there was thunder and flashes of lightning. This was an insuperable distraction to one of our number who quit play after the first hole and retreated to the safety of home. It has several names, so let’s just use “astraphobia”, the abnormal fear of thunder and lightning.
Our correspondent has always enjoyed being out in electric storms and one night long ago in Northern Ontario had a thrilling night sleeping in a white tent during an extremely violent lightning storm. We would prefer that any time to being on the wrong end of a 130mm artillery barrage.
Anyhow, the remainder of the field slogged on, intent on getting their money’s worth. It started to drizzle and then drip and then drizzle and then drip and so it went on all morning and afternoon, but never wet enough to render the course unplayable. Not a one of us was rendered dead by a bolt from above.
The first prize went to the player famous for missing the two-foot putts, with several on this particular day. But he had a good excuse (this time), with all the celestial disturbance.
As July unfolds there is increasing suspense about who will win the coveted “Alan Bolton Golfer of the Year” award. It has come down to a two-man race, with a third man, Perry McNeely, whose progress towards “Golfer of the Month”, holds the other race in the balance. The situation is reminiscent of the F1 champion’s title, which is often decided by an interesting combination of outcomes in the final races. So stay tuned till next week when all should be decided at Phoenix Golf Course.
1st Thomas Cotton 41pts
2nd Perry McNeely 38pts
3rd Frank Pilkington 37pts
4th Derek Brook 36pts
Near Pins: Mashi Kenata, Perry McNeely (2), Derek Brook.


Jaycock is the man in form

PSC Soi Kanoi Golf Group

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, July 21,
Greenwood C & A (White tees) - Stableford
Meeting at La Piscine for croissants and percolated coffee, fifteen of us were duly booked in and dispatched to the popular venue of Greenwood, which we had more or less to ourselves.

Thursday’s winner, Dennis Jaycock with the practice pose.
David Clamp took the day’s honors with 37 points, with Mike King edging Dennis Jaycock into second place on count-back, both with 36 points. A point further back on 35, Ted Morris edged Bev Ewens into fifth place on another count-back.
Mike King did well with the technical awards, picking up two near pins and the longest first putt on the 18th green bonuses, with Willy and Neil having the other two near pins.
Back at La Piscine we found out it was Mike Brooke’s birthday so we sang him the song and he bought us a drink. Thank you Mike!
Thursday, July 23,
Bangpra (White tees) - Stableford
It was a later start than normal start to take advantage of Bangpra’s lowered green fee for a post 11.00 hrs tee off.

…and the reality!
Having warmed up on Tuesday, Dennis Jaycock had a scorcher with 41 points to win the day, being closely followed home by two other men-in-form, David Clamp with 36 points and Mike King on 33 points.
The technical prizes were evenly distributed among the field.
David Clamp was runner-up despite suffering from a bad case of newtruckitis. Indeed, possibly the worst variety of the condition – black newtruckitis. Gladly the only known cure available for this dreadful condition (that infects mostly unretired men at three to four yearly intervals) will be administered to David on Saturday at an Isuzu dealership, but at huge cost of course.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the group’s format please phone Neil on 089 511 0575.


Blacky does it again

PSC golf from the Café Kronborg

Peter Blackburn & Dave Richardson
Monday, July 20,
Pleasant Valley – Stableford
Thirteen keen and dedicated golfers departed from the Kronborg at 0815 hrs on the dot for the 55 minute journey to the challenging Pleasant Valley. It was overcast when we arrived at 0910 hrs but we were confident that the rain would stay away as indeed it did, although the humidity was high.

Peter Blackburn scored a winning 40 points at Pleasant Valley.

As usual the course was in great shape with a great deal of work being undertaken on many parts of the course. Amongst our numbers were a couple of Aussie visitors, Harry Kelly from Korat, formerly from Gosnells Golf Club in Perth and Andre Van Dyk from Merewether Golf Club in Newcastle, N.S.W. We also said farewell to Gary Bingham who is returning to California in a day or so.
Our first group hit off at 0926 hrs, as there were very few other golfers on the course. Our group was second to tee off and we completed our round in the excellent time of 4 hours which included a couple of drink stops. Modesty prevents me from elaborating too much so may I just say that while others seemed to struggle somewhat, I had a “day out”!
It seems to be the trend that Café Kronborg golfers who are about to depart Pattaya often pop up with a “last game” win and today was no exception as I am returning to Perth this week for a short visit (Some say thank goodness for that).
The winner of A Flight with 40 points was your scribe, Peter Blackburn (playing off 15 today but it will be 13 for my next game). In second place was Karsten Kristensen with 34 points and in third place with 32 points was the technicolour Walter Bachli.
Hugh O’Donnell won the B Flight with 30 points and in second place on a count back was Andre Van Dyk with 29 points from The Admiral himself, Dave Richardson who finished third.
Thursday, July 23,
Bangpra - Stableford
We left for Bangpra at 0830 under rainy skies for a 1030 tee off, but the traffic was horrendous and the journey took an hour. Returning via Highway 7 took us just 45 minutes. The course on the day was wet after a lot of recent rain but in very good condition with just a smattering of monkeys.
We had 13 starters so just the one flight and in first place with 36 points was Marcel Wittwer with a welcome return to form (probably Blackburn’s absence that spurred him on). In second place was another of our Swiss friends Walter Bachli on 33 points. Doug Maiko got third place with 30 points on a count back from Andre Van Dyk who finished fourth.


Minor bird causes major problem for Rick Montana

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Friday’s winners celebrate with the Caddyshack staff.

Damian Trant
Monday, July 20, Bangpra - Stableford
Because of the large number of golfers, the field was split into two flights for the outing to Bangpra.
Bruce Tollit celebrated his return with 33 points and third place in the A Flight. Bruce has been back in England for the last 3 months and it’s good to see he still hasn’t lost his magic touch. Second place went to ‘man of the moment’ Greg Ritchie with an average score for him of 36 points. But well out in front with a top score of 39 points off his 9 handicap was Ted Gardner.
In B Flight the third place went to Bernard Channing with 32 points, and just beating Bernard on a count back was James Savage in second. Taking top spot in the flight, and winning by a mile, was Jack Hinchly with a more than respectable 36 points. Well done to Jack who likes to let everybody know that he’s never got any chance of winning when he plays golf with the Caddyshack.
The unluckiest golfer on the day had to be Rick Montana (no relation to Hanna). Having played to his handicap on the front nine and being in with a shout of victory, he launched two fantastic shots down the par five 11th, leaving him with an easy third shot to the green. A laser like wedge from just over a hundred yards looked to be homing in on the pin when a bird flew straight into the ball, knocking it into the water and itself to the floor. A quick flick of the wrist helped put the bird out of its misery, but no such look for Rick with only a blob to follow.
A Flight
1st Ted Gardner 39pts
2nd Greg Ritchie 36pts
3rd Bruce Tollit 35pts
B Flight
1st Jack Hinchly 36pts
2nd James Savage 32pts
3rd Bernard Channing 32pts
Wednesday, July 22, Greenwood – Stableford
While most people were getting washed out by the rain in and around Pattaya, one hour up the road at Greenwood we missed the lot and played in what were near perfect conditions for golf.
In the B Flight it turned out to be a battle of the bandits between Greg Ritchie and Sunderland Keith, with Greg as usual coming out on top with a better back nine on count back.
The A Flight second place went to Ted Gardner with 35 points, not good enough on the day, with Roger Moore shooting a fine 78 gross for his 37 points and victory. Roger is in the middle of a race with another unnamed Caddyshack golfer to get to a five handicap. It’s neck and neck at the moment but next week I will be coming out fighting. The race is on Roger!
A Flight
1st Roger Moore 37pts
2nd Ted Gardner 35pts
B Flight
1st Greg Ritchie 39pts
2nd Keith Sunderland 39pts
Friday, July 24, Green Valley - Stableford
Our weekly round at Green Valley produced another fantastic turnout for this time of year. For the third time this week we had to split the field into two flights, with B Flight producing by far the better scores.
In the top division there were four people on 33 points: Bill Collis took third place after losing second spot to Ted ‘two handicaps’ Gardner on count back. Well out in front and the winner of A Flight with 39 points was Les Hall.
B Flight third spot went to Ben ‘atmosphere’ Findon with 35 points. Keep it up Ben I’ve got lots more for you. In second place, with a score of which normally would be good enough to win, was Ian Hart with 38 points. But the winner, and with his second 39 point haul of the week, was Sunderland Keith.
A Flight
1st Les Hall 36pts
2nd Ted Gardner 33pts
3rd Bill Collis 33pts
B Flight
1st Keith Sunderland 39pts
2nd Ian Hart 38pts
3rd Ben Findon 35pts


Golfers find ‘the Mountain’ in benevolent mood at 89th PSC monthly

Derek Brook
Friday, July 24 – Mountain Shadow
One thing to be certain of is that if you are a member of PSC, once a month you will have a chance of a great day out at the monthly golf tournament. Not only a great day out, but these days a great night as well.

The Golf Chairman Perry (center) is dwarfed by the A Flight and B Flight winners (and Perry is over 6ft tall).
This day started with the booking-in at Mountain Shadow, where we were greeted by that great double act, Max and Matt, then off to the first tee. One of the things that could be seen was that quite a bit of work had been carried out in the clubhouse and although not finished yet, it was certainly in better condition then last time I went there.
The course caused a bit of worry for some players who did not attend, mainly because it is such a difficult track, but on this day it seemed positively benign, for Mountain Shadow that is, and all the players commentated that they enjoyed their round. There was a strong wind blowing which caused some problems, but the temperature was within bounds and it was a good walk not spoilt.
Much has been said about the condition of this course of late, and although it is not up to the high standard of a few years ago, it was in perfectly playable condition with clean fairways and fast tricky greens. What was just as important was that the PSC Golf Chairman had negotiated a great deal, so we had a fine round at a fine course at a great rate: A smashing day out!

The Golf Chairman doles out the awards to the Seniors and C Flight winners.
Round over it was into the shower, then we tried out the restaurant. It was quite full with the players, so I tried the special noodles and chicken at 75 baht, and it proved tasty and of good value. Of course this was just to put me on until the ‘night session’ started. This month it was to be at Jameson’s, so we bimbled back for a quick 40 winks before leaving for a bite to eat and the prize giving.
On arrival at Jameson’s The Irish Pub, I thought there was no place to sit as the 85 players seemed to have swelled considerably, however Kim Fletcher took it all in his stride as he watched the hungry locusts descend on the buffet. Golf does tend to put an edge on the appetite, especially when you have been waiting to eat since the last ‘monthly’.
I found a quiet spot with Herbie the President, Max the Secretary, Perry the Golf Chairman and Tom the Treasurer. Only the train was missing but it certainly made for an interesting evening.
On this evening we had a special ‘sponsor’ when Jens Klein, Marketing Department Sales and Marketing Manager of the Petch Property Development Co., Ltd. and on behalf of The Cove development, said a few words. Thanks also go to our normal sponsors: Jameson’s, Mooore Bar and Grill, Tratatoria Italiana, Moon River Pub, Shenanigen’s, Blue Parrot, Tequila Reef, Peoples, T.Q. and to all those not mentioned but who support us so well, I will get you next month.

Ladies winner was Prasong O’Connor, seen here with Perry and his daughter.
The Emcee for the night was John Emerson, I hear Mike was not well, but John was more than an able stand in and did a fine job of keeping Perry under control. Talking of Perry he was in his usual ‘Captain Chaos’ mode, so well done Perry.
The results of the golf tournament saw Jeff Wylie take out the A Flight with a splendid net 72 ahead of Simon Spalding in second and Mike Allidi in third, both on net 73s.
The B Flight winner was Kevin Hamilton with a slightly higher score of net 75, in second came Bob Ninneman with a net 78 and Joseph Benosson was a further shot back in third.
C Flight was a Stableford competition and was won by David Watkinson with an even par 36 points, Thomas Cotton came second just 2 points adrift and Joachim Destricher was third on 33.
The Ladies had their own flight as usual and this month the top lady golfer was Prasong O’Connor with a great score of 39 points, but only beating Jum Karagit on count back after she also finished with the same total.
A Seniors Flight was also competed for at this month’s event and this was won by Rogher Koehler on 40 points, second was Tom Breslin on 39 and in third spot came Frank Pilkington with an even par 36.
Near Pin prizes were awarded to Tom Breslin (2), David Watkinson, Joseph Benoussan, Mike Allidi, Silawong Yuphaporn, Georgi Baccoli (2) John Rehm, Pierre Bietry, Dale Murphy (2), Prasong O’Connor, Joachim Oestreicher, Geoff King, Jeff Wylie, Thomas Cotton and Lennart Alexandrie.
The big hitters also got in on the act with Long Drive awards going to Jan Webb, William Macey, Bob Ninneman, Tom Wilson and Thomas Cotton.
There were also six ‘2’s recorded on the day by Pierre Bietry, Jeff Wylie (2), Doug Maiko, Geoff Parker and Tom Breslin.
With the presentation over, it was time for the ‘Lucky Draw’ and then down to drinking the bar dry and Kim very kindly put on happy hour all night. Thanks Kim and see you all next month. T.T.F.N.


Thorne a week too late

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society schedules its fixtures three months in advance and with the insertion of the IPGC Annual Championship coming later, the Soi Buakhao group found themselves at Pattana for the third time in six days on Tuesday, July 21. Some would think this excessive but for the PGS it represented another opportunity to play a course of outstanding challenge.
The stableford event was over the A and C nines and the skies remained heavily laden and humid throughout. Amazingly scores were high, with Larry Slattery repeating his championship final day form with 34 points for third place. Mikael Andersson’s front nine of 21 points laid the basis for a fine round of 39 points to give him second place.
The winner was Tony Thorne and had he produced this form a few days earlier he would have been celebrating a championship victory in true Aussie style. Nevertheless his 40 points was warmly received back in Soi Buakhao, as was the only birdie ‘2’ of the day by Mr Len on C2.
The Booby Bevy went to Chris Voller for his low score which embarrassed the current PGS “Player of the Month”.
Golfers cannot have too much of Pattana, for excellent value and a quality set-up is obvious throughout.
Magic Mickie
Thursday, July 23, saw the Pattaya Golf Society play near home for the first time in a few weeks when they took on the Lakes and Ocean combination at Phoenix in a stableford competition. In very hot and humid conditions the pace was telling and it was amazing that scores were so good.
Tony Thorne is enjoying a “hot” streak and yet his 39 points was good enough only for third place, one point behind a blistering round by Bob Watson, his forty points representing his best competition round to date.
Hot off the back of thirty-nine points two days previously, Mikael Andersson bullied the course into submission with a vicious attack of long hitting and accuracy and put together an excellent 43 points for the win.
There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to Mr Len for choosing to play the competition rather than celebrate his 36th wedding anniversary with his good lady. All the best Len, thanks for the best Mickie!
Hat-trick for Thorne
On Saturday, July 25, the Pattaya Golf Society had the rare treat of playing a stableford competition at St Andrew’s on a fine warm day. After a hectic few weeks it was good to see members turning out again for what is always a stern test of golf.
Returning to Pattaya only the previous day, Masashi Iizumi quickly shook off the remains of jet lag and posted a score of 34 points which was good enough for third place and his card was further enhanced with two birdie ‘2’s on the fifth and tenth holes.
Ahead of Masashi were Tony Thorne and John Rehm who both broke par with 37 points each and for Tony it was the third consecutive round under par in a week, quite an achievement. Tony also had the minor share of the ‘2’s pot with his fine effort on the fifth.
Ian Wilson, recently returned from England, received the Booby Bevy after turning out in caddy pink, which caused confusion at every turn to his playing partners. But it was really Tony Thorne who was “in the pink” on the day he made it three in a row with the PGS.


Rod Howett the best of the week

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, July 13, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Derek Holt 36pts
2nd Chris Knapp 35pts
3rd Alec Woods 35pts
4th Dave Ashman 35pts
5th Grant Cadell 35pts
In readiness for the IPGC Club Championship a tough start to the week had been arranged at the renovated Bangpra, where as usual the course was in excellent condition but still very tricky on and around the greens.
Derek Holt at last showed some return for the hours spent planting rice as he topped the leader board for the first time in a while with a solid level handicap round. He was closely followed by Chris Knapp, who won the count back with 19 on the inward half and 14 on the back six as he just held off Alec Woods who could only manage 13 on the last six.
Dave Ashman took fourth with a better back six of 7 after leveling with Grant Cadell at 13 each on the first part of their count back.
Markku Tynell had the only ‘2’ in the second division and Yasuo Suzuki and Alan Griffiths had one each in the first division.
Unusually there were no welcomes or welcome backs but three farewells went to Alan Griffiths, Richard Lyne and Geoff Picken.
Monday, July 20, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Rod Howett 39pts
2nd Rodney Hayes 37pts
3rd Yasuo Suzuki 36pts
4th Barry Traynor 35pts
5th Chris Knapp 34pts
6th Paul Taylor 34pts
7th Grant Cadell 34pts
With the best result from a Haven player during the past two weeks, Rod Howett belied his recent form to coast in two ahead of Rodney Hayes as Rodney strove to slip one last win in the bag before returning to abject misery back in Oz in front of late night TV watching channel 7 sports.
Yasuo Suzuki, also soon to return home, took third place ahead of Barry Traynor and a chasing group headed by Chris Knapp, who won the count back with 19 to Paul Taylor’s 18 and Grant Cadell with 13.
Once again Grant Cadell faded badly over the home stretch and limped in seventh place but he did slip in a 2 on the front nine to sweep the pot in the second division whilst Jens Gunnarsson did the same in the first.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member Mark Kitti and also welcomed back Brian Wilkinson and had a farewell for Rodney Hayes.
Wednesday, July 22, Greenwood - Stableford
1st Shuichi Kodaka 38pts
2nd Jens Gunnarsson 36pts
3rd Dave Ashman 36pts
4th John Squitiero 35pts
Another tough day on the course saw Shuichi Kodaka take the day’s top spot by two from Jens Gunnarsson, who just kept out Dave Ashman with a better count back of 18 to 17, with John Squitiero in fourth another shot back.
Dave Ashman had the only ‘2’ in the first division and Damian Wilson had the sole one in the second division.
Back at The Haven The Doc welcomed new members Ken Geering and Damian Wilson and also welcomed back Yasukazu Ueda.
Friday, July 24, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Sid Ottaway 37pts
2nd John Squitiero 37pts
3rd Russell Exley 36pts
4th David Lacey 35pts
5th Danny Greer 35pts
Crystal Bay was found to be in much better shape than recently with noticeably a lot more green keepers’ staff at work on various parts of the course.
Sid Ottaway took full advantage of his newer and higher handicap to take the day’s top place by a count back over John Squitiero by a margin of 20 to 19, with Russell Exley at last playing to his handicap again in third.
David Lacey claimed he had not played golf in a couple of years and if that is true either he has been watching a huge amount of times or my uncle is a Dutchman, as his one over handicap score demonstrated.
Danny Greer made good time up the 331 to catch the group up and tag onto the competition after being left at the starting gate, and then made it all worthwhile with fifth place and all without a speeding ticket.
There were no 2’s in either division.
Before the presentations there were farewells to John Harris, Yasuo Suzuki and Patrick Scullion. And a welcome back to David Lacey after several years absence while work got in the way of life.
The IPGC Monthly Medals
The IPGC Monthly Medals will take place on Wednesday, August 5 at Phoenix Golf Club. There is a 300 baht entry fee which includes medals for the winners in the 1st Division (0-10, Stroke Play), the 2nd Division (11-18, Stroke Play), the 3rd Division (19+, Stableford) and the Ladies (0-36, Stableford). The results will count towards the end of year Gold and Silver Medals in all divisions. There will be a special European buffet at the Haven prior to the presentations. Players can sign up at Donovan’s (Steve Mascari), The Haven (Russell Exley), The Rabbi’s Elephant (Len Jones) or Jomtiem Golf (Glyn Evans).


Smith goes sub-70 at Phoenix

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, July 20, Phoenix - Medal
Paul Smith is a member of Phoenix Golf Club and he always seems to do well here, and today was to be no exception. Paul won with a fabulous seven under par net 65 (gross 69) to win by a street and it also put second placed (again) Rab McDonald’s three under round in the shade. Eddie Martin’s level par effort was only enough to get him third place ahead of Geoff Hart on a count back.

Paul Smith recorded a fabulous gross 69 (net 65) at Phoenix.

The unlucky Geoff Hart had the consolation of winning a near pin along with Eddie but, the man of the moment Paul Smith took the other two!
1st Paul Smith (4) net 65
2nd Rab McDonald (13) net 69
3rd Eddie Martin (16) net 72
Wednesday, July 22, Pattana - Stableford
Playing Stableford at Pattana Golf and Sports Club we had a very close finish when the scorecards were handed in. In a single flight we had a three-way tie, all scores being quite low but not bad considering Pattana is a pretty stiff test.
Tony Robbins, Tom Wilson (visiting from Phuket) and Paul Smith all came in to the clubhouse with 31 points and on a count back Tony took the honours from Tom in second place, while Paul had to settle for third.
Only three were near pins were claimed: Tom and Paul took one each the other going to Rab McDonald.
1st Tony Robbins (11) 31pts
2nd Tom Wilson (9) 31 pts
3rd Paul Smith (4) 31 pts
Friday, July 24, PSC Monthly Tournament - Mountain Shadow
The Bunker Boy’s joined in the PSC Monthly competition at Mountain Shadow but unfortunately there’s nothing to write home about. Only Tom Wilson (longest drive), William Macey (longest drive seniors) and Geoff Parker with a 2 on a par three claimed any honours out on the course. The only other thing of note was that everybody who attended the presentation ceremony at Jameson’s won a raffle prize except Eddie Martin. However Eddie had some consolation because Mashi splashed out and bought him a beer!


Milner sets the pace at Phoenix

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, July 20, Burapha - Stableford
With the number of Outbackers and friends up to 42, playing Augusta & Belfry from the blues, Capt’ Bob orchestrated the familiar two-tee start. Before one could blink, all eleven groups were underway shortly after the scheduled tee time of 10am.

Steve & Mark hold the ‘Roo Cup’ and look on as Dion and John perform their improvised ‘Haka’.

The course was it’s usual immaculate self, however the unusual wind direction gave some welcome relief to the long 8th, 9th & 10th holes; whilst it (the wind) made the long par 3 over water 6th, a wood for most.
A big welcome again to Simon Spaulding’s group from Aus. - himself demonstrating how to play the game with a fine display of golf to win Div A and scoring 37 points off a handicap of just 2. Apparently, had he been able to read the greens and putt, his score would have been a good bit better. The runner-up was the ‘General’ with 36, who stretched his purple patch to four podiums in a row, but is also having a terrible time with the putter.
Kevin Moraghan, who was cut on Friday to 13, went out and did the biz again with an excellent 40 points, taking first place in Div B from Bob Lindborg in second with 37.
The scoring in Div C was somewhat lower, with 33 points being enough to win; that came from Bill Mooney with John Low (2nd) and Tomas Olsen (3rd) both back on 31. Bruce McAdam filled the last spot with just 30.
There was another ‘Roo Cup’ defence, as the English duo of Mark Riggall & Steve Milne took on the New Zealand pairing of John Low & Dion Lane. On the tee at the start of the match the Kiwis presented the Englishmen with the traditional ‘Haka’ to the enjoyment of many but even with the intimidating faces and tongue poking, the pair (Mark & Steve) remained in control throughout to keep the ‘Roo Cup’, firmly in their hands.
There were five ‘2’s from Bob Lindborg, Bob Philp, Kev Moraghan, Bill Mooney and Bruce Milner.
Div A (0-11)
1st Simon Spaulding (2) 37pts
2nd Jack Moseley (10) 36pts
3rd Geoff Christy (5) 36pts
4th Jan Webb (11) 35pts
Div B (12-16)
1st Kevin Moraghan (13) 40pts
2nd Bob Lindborg (16) 37pts
3rd Bernie Stafford (12) 34pts
4th Joe Mooneyham (12) 33pts
Div C (17+)
1st William Mooney (18) 33pts
2nd Low John (17) 31pts
3rd Tomas Olsen (18) 31pts
4th Bruce McAdam (21) 30pts
Tuesday, July 21, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
There were 11 Outbackers in today’s regular Tuesday game and arriving we received the usual warm welcome from the staff. We were off on time under dark clouds and during the round there was thunder and a little light rain but neither was enough to cause any hold-ups, so it was the normal 4 hours.
It was ‘Goodbye’ to Kev Watson, off to work on Sunday for a couple of months and welcome back to David Day and his delightful companion.
There were no 2’s, so it was the top 4 ‘in the frame’.
First, second and third were all PCC members with Alan Pearce (18) in top spot with 38 points. It was a count back for 2nd and 3rd between ‘Chad’, Barry Chadbourn (20) and Pattaya’s ‘Tom Watson’, aka Arthur Bailey (21) both with 37; Chad taking 2nd place by a point.
It was a five-way count back for 4th place with Jack, Nigel, Mike, Suzi and David all with 31 points. It went to the back 6 and it was to be David Day’s (15) day!
The Outback is at Pattaya Country Club each Tuesday at around 09.30.
1st Alan Pearce (18) 38pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 37pts
3rd Arthur Bailey (21) 37pts
4th David Day (15) 31pts
Wednesday, July 22, Royal Lakeside - Stableford
Whilst it was raining in Pattaya, 18 Outbackers sped up the motorway to play the charming Royal Lakeside course. Although soggy underfoot from the overnight rain, a dry day was guaranteed by the participation of Rich Montana, who stated quite categorically, ‘it never rains when I play golf in Thailand’, and remarkably it didn’t.
Once again the course got beaten up by the players with almost half the field playing to their handicap or better and no-one in Div A under 30 points. It is a relatively short course with generous fairways and massive greens but although it has its fair share of bunkers, a good ball striker can score well round here. A few of the greens were being cored (or had been) but because of the enormity of them, the ground staff are able to core half a green at a time, permitting normal play to continue with little inconvenience.
The visiting Kiwis showed the regular Outbackers how to play the game with both divisions being won with 42 points, from Dion (the sawman) Lane in Div A and his ‘Roo Cup’ partner, John Low in Div B. Alan Bishop (39pts) and Capt’ Bob (38pts) took the minor honours in Div A, whilst Suzi Lawton (39pts) and Charlie (good for a bet) Sheppard (37pts) followed up in Div B.
After a short discussion with General Jack (the handicap slasher), Dion and John had their handicaps reduced immediately to 10.6 and 14.6 respectively, whilst their mate Rogan, who’s having a torrid time on the course, had his handicap increased from 27 to 33.
There were five ‘2’s from Suzi Lawton, Capt’ Bob, John Low, Rich Montana & Rosco Langoulant.
Div A (0-16)
1st Dion Lane (12) 42pts
2nd Alan Bishop (15) 39pts
3rd Bob Philp (7) 38pts
Div B (17+)
1st John Low (17) 42pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (21) 39pts
3rd Charles Sheppard (17) 37pts
Thursday, July 23, Green Valley - Stableford
Just nine in the comp. at Green Valley, kept in order as usual by Barry Chadbourn, who unusually didn’t feature anywhere near the top three places. The Kiwis dominated again, but this time it was Geoff’s turn, playing off five, to come out on top, firing 74 off the stick for 39 points. Second place went to Green Valley regular, Don Tyldsley with the corrected score of 36, with John Low back in third on 31.
Playing with the Outback were also three lads; Jamie, Ross & Mike who hired some clubs from the bar and came out for a hit without participating in the tournament.
There were no ‘2’s so the pot was added to the prize fund.
1st Geoff Christie (5) 39pts
2nd Don Tyldsley (29) 36pts
3rd John Low (15) 31pts
Friday, July 24, Phoenix - Stableford
Thirty-one Outbackers turned out at Phoenix to play the Lake & Ocean nines as the main event today in lieu of Laem Chabang, where the Outback return to next Friday and every Friday for all of August. These guys & girls have honed their game over recent weeks and Phoenix gave up easily as thirteen players out there gave the course a thorough spanking.
Bruce Milner spearheaded the invasion with a quite fantastic 44 points (76 gross, his best ever in Thailand) clearly winning Div A by five. Joe would have done enough on any other day with his 39 for second and Bernie Stafford (aka Sausage) didn’t even make the podium with his 36. Well done Tony Garnett (37pts) showing his form, taking third, on the eve of returning to Manchester for a couple of weeks.
The ‘Roo Cup’ was retained by the Englishmen, Mark Riggall & Steve Milne, winning 2 up against Paul Greenaway & Sausage; and it was Steve’s 40 points, winning Div B, that did most of the damage. The handicapper is having a tough time keeping up with Kiwi, John Low (38pts), as he chalked up another sub-par round to take second, only to find that General Jack cut him again to 14 dead. Other scores of note came from Rosco & the Sugarman, both with 37, Rosco getting it by a nostril.
Div C was won by Nok Hester (40pts), only recently returning to her golf after having a baby, but her game is in improving in leaps and bounds and her new handicap of just 19, is bound to slow her down.
Second was Rogan Hampson (39pts) who had only just gone up to h’cap 33 (now back to 31.5) from another two with 37 points, Bruce McAdam & Dave Jones.
There were only two ‘2’s from Bruce Milner & Rosco.
Div A (0-12)
1st Bruce Milner (12) 44pts
2nd Joe Mooneyham (12) 39pts
3rd Tony Garnett (12) 37pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Steve Milne (16) 40pts
2nd John Low (15) 38pts
3rd Rosco Langoulant (13) 37pts
Div C (18+)
1st Nok Hester (23) 40pts
2nd Rogan Hampson (33) 39pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (21) 37pts


‘Oldies’ destroy ‘Pretty Boys’ in double header softball Sunday

PSC Sunday Softball

Diego Wells
Another magnificent softball double header was on display Sunday, July 19. John CF had the cooler filled, Ice fried up the sausages and burgers, and over 25 players took to the diamond to display their skills.

Curtis is welcomed back with a nasty pitch that he strikes out on. Hopefully he will practice in Malaysia, but at least he has some sweet pin striped pants!
For the first time since anyone can remember, both old codgers Perry and Alan were put on the same team. Yours truly thought he and his handpicked team could beat both dogs with one stick, but the old boys definitely had more then a few tricks up their sleeve as they dominated both games and age triumphed over beauty and the old guys won both ends of the doubleheader. Rick Z. was named MVP for his solid play at shortstop and excellent hitting.
Pattaya Softball would like to give our regards to Curtis who will be back in November, and to the Boston Banger, Marky, who will return in late September after experiencing culture shock Argentine style.
See you all on the diamond next Sunday at 1pm.

Dan about to connect on one, as Scotty at third base,
 John S in left field and Rick Z. at short get ready to play some defence.

Alan and Perry’s Oldies were crowned double header champs. (Front row L to R): John S., Josh, Phil, Shawn. (Back Row L to R): Rick Z, Scott D., John CF, Michelle and Perry, Dirk, Rhys, Scotty, Robin


Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

This is another hand to plan the play on. You are sitting South.  Your partner deals and opens one club.  East passes and you bid one spade.  West bids two hearts.  North encourages with three spades and you end up as declarer in four spades.  West takes three rounds of high hearts.  East follows to the first two rounds and discards a low diamond on the third round.  On the fourth round, West leads the nine of spades.  After the three rounds of hearts, the North and South hands are as below.  You need the rest of the tricks.  Before looking at the full deal, what is your plan for making the contract?

                    S: KQ104

                    H: -

                    D: -

                    C: AK10542     

S: ?                                         S: ?

H: J10                                    H: -

D: ?                                        D: ?

C: ?                                        C: ?

                    S: AJ72

                    H: -

                    D: KQ543

                    C: 6

I watched this being played.  Without much pause for thought, declarer took the first trick in hand with the jack.  Then he ruffed a low diamond on board and cashed the ace and king of clubs, with both East and West following.  Now he led a low club to get back to hand.  He ruffed with the seven and East over ruffed.  Contract down.
At the next table, the play followed the same line through the fourth trick.  At trick five, declarer led the king of diamonds and let it ride without trumping when West did not cover with the ace.  However, it was East who had the ace and won the trick.  Contract down.  Both declarers complained of their bad luck, but they were wrong - it was bad planning.
At the third table, declarer paused to count tricks.  He saw that, if he tried to set up his own hand, he would probably take only nine tricks.  He could take the ace and king of clubs, three diamond ruffs on board, and four trump tricks in hand, if all went well.  That is still one trick short of the ten he needed.
Then, he saw a plan which had a good probability of making the contract.  This was to use his own trumps to ruff clubs and try to set up dummy.  He won the fourth trick in hand with the jack of spades and led a club to the ace.  Then he led a low club back to ruff in hand with the seven.
West followed, to declarer’s relief.  Now he led a low trump to board’s queen.  Both East and West followed and declarer knew he had made the contract.  He ruffed another low club in hand, with the ace of trumps this time, to make sure there was no over ruff.  Now he ruffed a diamond on board to get back there, and pulled the last trump with dummy’s king.  The king of clubs pulled East’s last club and dummy’s two remaining low clubs then took the last two tricks.  Contract made.
This was the full hand, with North dealer and EW vulnerable.  Would your plan have made the contract? 

                     S: KQ104

                     H: 983

                     D: -

                     C: AK10542   

S: 986                                   S: 53

H: AKQJ10                         H: 76

D: 1086                                D: AJ972

C: 73                                     C: QJ98

                     S: AJ72

                     H: 542

                     D: KQ543

                     C: 6                   

What the successful declarer did is called a dummy reversal, setting up dummy, not hand.  What is surprising is that dummy reversal plays can be difficult to see.  If you were sitting North and playing this contract  the correct play would be obvious.  But, sitting South, players tend to focus on trying to deal with the losers in their own hand.
Time and time again I have seen players (including myself) fail in contracts by becoming fixated on their own hand, when dummy should be the master.  Particularly when dummy is strong, or has good trumps, it is well worth thinking about a dummy reversal.  I would like to hear from readers about their favourite hands - please do contact me at: [email protected].


Café Kronborg takes over first place

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Sue, Rich, Tukata & Kaew.

Café Kronborg took three points from Canada and moved into first place ahead of Sala Thai Restaurant who held first for 9 consecutive weeks. Yeow led Café Kronborg with a 210 game, 539 series and Sue Murphy had a 200 game and 513 series.
Graham bowled a 534 series to lead Swethai to a four point sweep over Sala Thai Restaurant - Somrak had a 512 series for Sala Thai - while Green Chilli moved into third place after winning three from Bavaria. Kaew had a 533 series to lead VFW Post 9876 to a three point win over Brother D: Tukata Thompson had games of 189, 181 and 202 for a good 572 series for Brother D.
Indiana moved from eighth to a tie for fifth after winning three points from Café Ole. Pao Orawan led Indiana with a 511 series, 601 with handicap. Jack Tar won three points from Sabai Sabai Friday.

Results & Standings July 24 (week 22)
Pos.     Team                                 Score        Standings

1           Café Kronborg                     3 - 1          51.5 - 36.5
2           Sala Thai Restaurant           0 - 4             50 - 38
3           Green Chilli                         3 - 1             47 - 41
4           Brother D                           1 - 3             46 - 42
5           VFW Post 9876                  3 - 1             44 - 44
6           Indiana                               3 - 1             44 - 44
7           Jack Tar                             3 - 1          43.5 - 44.5
8           Sabai Sabai Friday              1 - 3          42.5 - 45.5
9           Bavaria                               1 - 3             42 - 46
10         Café Ole                             1 - 3             41 - 47
11         Swethai                              4 - 0             39 – 49
12         Canada                               1 - 3         36.5 - 51.5


Priak’s dry spell over

The Pattaya Backgammon League

Gabriel Davis
The Pattaya Backgammon League had its largest turn out Saturday July 25 at Somboons Restaurant on Dang Tarn Beach, with some new faces showing up as well. Priak managed to cut through a field of 12, winning all 4 of his matches.

Priak took all his 4 matches last weekend.

Last week, I mentioned the World Championship being held in Monte Carlo and the final being played between Lars “trabi” Trabolt (Denmark) and Masayuki “Mochy” Mochizuki (Japan) and the results are in and Mochy won 26 to 20. Trabi was unable to win back to back titles, an amazing run none the less. A point of interest is that Mochy has played in the Thailand Open a few times as well. Hopefully, he’ll play again with more of his mates in tow.

Our main events this year are, The Christmas Tournament, Dec 26 and 27, and the new Dong Tarn Beach Open. Further details will be provided on the league website www.pattayabackgammon league.com or you can email with questions pattayaback [email protected].
Lastly, I leave you with a problem which came from a recent match. This is a match to 3 and black has an overwhelming position with the chance to win a gammon (4pts) and the match. With 52 to play, what is the best way to play this seemingly innocuous number?
The difference of the two best plays (6 to 4 6 to 1 and 5 out 2 to the 3 point) (proper annotation looks like this: 6/4 6/1 vs. 5/o 2/3) is 1.32% so not a big error but worthy of note.