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Thai Legends retain title in rugby festival at Horseshoe Point
Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament 2010
The host club Pattaya Panthers (in green) take on Young Blood
at the
Chris Kays Memorial Rugby 10’s, Sunday, May 2.
The Buccaneers challenge the Phuket Vagabonds at the
line-out.
Staff Reporters
The weekend of May 1-2 was forecast to be ideal for
this 10th edition of the annual Chris Kays Memorial rugby tournament,
the upgraded facilities at Horseshoe Point were in perfect condition for
the expected hordes of players and followers, and the playing surface
looked like a billiard table.
The Thai Legends (in white) carry the ball downfield.
The tournament took place despite the ongoing
political and economic problems, which had caused a number of the
foreign teams to withdraw, but still some 15 rugby teams from all over
Thailand and other parts of the world descended on Pattaya to contest
what is now becoming one of the principal 10 a-side tournaments in the
region.
The teams had gathered at the Amari Orchid Resort for
the registration where they were royally entertained by the General
Manager, David Cumming, who is a very keen supporter of local rugby. The
Buccaneers a loose gathering of Australians with some Defence
connections were the only overseas side that had braved the “dangerous
conditions” to travel to Thailand and they were determined to take away
some of the silverware!
Even the junior section had been affected by the
prevailing situation, but despite some late drop outs the Boys Under-18
tournament went ahead with 7 teams, all from local schools and clubs.
Their tournament was played on Saturday evening and Sunday morning so
the boys had little time to rest. The games were very hotly contested
with teams from Bangkok battling against the boys from the Provinces.
Phuket Vagabonds collect the wooden shield.
The boys set a very high standard for the men to live
up to and everybody who witnessed the ability and courage of these lads
agreed that the standards are improving very quickly. It is obvious that
with the introduction of an improved diet the Thai boys are bulking up
and are now more than a match for their foreign counterparts.
The tournament was won by the team from Vajiravudh
College and surprisingly the runners up were the Surawittayakrn School
from Surin, last years champions.
Thai Barbarians won the Plate final.
Due to some late withdrawals, the main tournament was
to be contested by 15 teams with a very strong local bias. The Thai
teams had really taken up the slack and there were no fewer than 10
all-Thai teams with several Thai players in other squads. The Thai
Barbarians, who were former champions, led the local challenge and they
had 2 teams in the draw. Last year’s champions Thai Legends were back to
defend their title and they also had 2 teams in the draw.
Jim Howard, center, presents the Bowl to the Buccaneers.
As usual there was strong representation from the
expatriate teams in Bangkok; The Southerners were as usual favourites
from this group but the Old Bangkok Bangers had found some young Bangers
and they had impressed with their fitness and energy under their new
captains. The British Club had undergone a makeover and appeared in the
guise of “The Goosers”, a team composed mainly of young Thai students,
whilst perennial crowd favourites the Bangkok Japanese were expected to
make a stronger showing as the tournament was being played over a
holiday weekend so they had more of their players available.
Thai Legends I are presented with the tournament Cup.
Young Blood, Nakorn Pathom University and the Bangkok
University provided the academic challenge, and we also welcomed back
The Chiang Mai Suas and the Phuket Viagrabonds to round out the local
challenge.
Our old friends from the Australian Navy, “The
Buccaneers”, with an even bigger touring party than last year, were
fully expecting to at least out drink all other teams!! The roster was
rounded out by the hosts, the Pattaya Panthers, who felt that at full
strength they also stood a good chance of getting amongst the trophies.
Jim Howard presents the U18 Cup to the Vajiravudh College team.
There was some confusion when the protagonists
assembled at Horseshoe Point at 09:30 am on the Saturday morning to
discover that there had been some overnight shuffling of the playing
schedule. The organizers tent was besieged by team captains anxious to
know when would be their turn to take to the lush turf of Horseshoe
Point. Unflappable as ever, Tournament Director Malcolm “The Root of all
Evil” Clare with his dour assistant Wayne “Blowfly” Oganoski soon had
everything sorted out and play finally commenced under the control of
David Viccars and his merry band of referees.
An even better presentation?
The teams were divided into 4 groups and Saturday’s
games were played in a round robin format to determine the ranking for
the various knockout tournaments. In the perfect conditions, hard and
fast running rugby was the order of the day and most games went to form
as expected.
There were strong performances from all of the Thai
teams and The “Suas”, whilst the host team stunned everybody, including
themselves, by playing out of their skins and actually winning their
first group game but thereafter faded badly.
A feast of rugby on finals day.
The Thai Legends I, AIA Legends and The Thai
Barbarians II led the way into the Cup quarter finals with Bangkok
University, Nakorn Pathom University, the “Suas” and the Bangkok Bangers
threatening to gatecrash the cup party. The hosts led the way into the
Plate competition where the Southerners and Thai Barbarians I had
surprisingly ended up after lack lustre performances in the qualifying
rounds. The Bowl participants would not be decided until the quarter
finals were completed.
After a hard day’s play, cooling off in the pool was
obligatory and a strong start was made on some of the mighty hangovers
to be seen the following morning. The preliminary rounds of the Junior
Tournament were played in the cool of the evening with final rounds
played early on Sunday morning to allow the old fellas to sleep in.
With a slightly later start the order of play was in
some doubt, however the Chairman and his organizing team soon had
everything under control and the knockout phase commenced with few
complaints.
The night‘s partying had definitely taken it’s toll
in general but on the home side in particular and several teams were
short on resources. Tired limbs were anointed and strapped and the quest
for Cup, Plate, and Bowl got under way. Many first time losers were
surprised to find that they then had to play more games than if they had
won as a trickle down was enforced. Again there were some superb
performances and some very close encounters with not a few surprises.
After the youngsters had shown their paces it was on
to the main tournament and the men ground their way through a very heavy
schedule that finally weeded the weak from the strong. Even a torrential
downpour in the early afternoon failed to dampen the spirits of the
players although everything else was soaked through.
The Cup semi finals saw some very good and hard games
and eventually it was whittled down to a final between match between the
Thai Legends I and the surprise package of the tournament, The Chiang
Mai “Suas”, who had grown in strength as the competition progressed. It
was an absolutely cracking final in which no quarter was given. The Thai
boys displayed total commitment, great handling and superior fitness but
the “Suas” had some older and experienced heads in their team and they
gave their all but finally the superior fitness told as the “Suas” legs
tired. So Thai Legends I eventually triumphed and retained their title
in style, winning a hotly contested final quite comfortably 19 - 0.
In the Plate it promised to be just as exciting and
hard fought as several of the favourites had failed to fulfill their
promise to make the Cup and it was hoped that the hosts, the Pattaya
Panthers, would be able to reproduce their form of the first game the
previous day. However that was not to be, they were undone by getting a
bye and finally succumbed to the boys from Bangkok University, who had
produced outstanding rugby and were the surprise package of the Plate.
The Southerners and The Old Bangkok Bangers also
failed to live up to their early promise and both went home empty
handed. The Plate final was between Bangkok University and the Thai
Barbarians (the pre-tournament favourites) who finally found their form
and ran out easy winners 29 -5.
The competition for the Bowl was by contrast a bagful
of surprises with clubs like The Buccaneers and The Goosers vying at
this level when everybody would have expected them to be in the Cup.
Eventually the final came down to those old rivals, the Buccaneers and
the Viagrabonds, who contested a rather one-sided match which saw the
Buccaneers (with some help from the Panthers) running out comfortable
winners 24 - 0. So they did win a trophy but the Bowl was actually
Benjarong ... so still no silverware!
The Phuket Viagrabonds did however create something
of a record as they finished the entire tournament without a win and
indeed without scoring a single point, yet reached the Bowl final, but
they did not leave empty handed as they were awarded the “Wooden
Shield”!
After the final whistle everybody crashed into the
pool and the presentations were made to all trophy winners by Jim
Howard, the Chairman of Pattaya Panthers RFC, who also presented the
prestigious Chris Kays Award, for the person contributing most to the
tournament on and off the field, to Mark Goodwin from the
Buccaneers who had apparently set an incredible pace throughout the
weekend and is rumored to have touched every blade of grass on the
Horseshoe Point field!
A vote of thanks is due to all the organizers
supporters and sponsors without whom a tournament like this could not
happen: MBMG International, European Safety Concepts, Amari Orchid
Resort, Omega Logistics Ltd, G4Ssecuricor, Modern Access Thailand,
Mackenzie Smith Law, Cranes & Equipment Asia Ltd., WMS Thailand,
Construction Cost Consultants, Synovate Thailand, Jardine Shipping, NZ
Asset Management, The Comcon Group.
Also a heavy vote of thanks to Contract Resources
Asia, who provided all the shade and Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for the
first aid and medical attention, of course Horseshoe Point for providing
a perfect venue and Thai Asia Pacific Brewery who supplied the beers and
the very attractive beer servers, who definitely brightened up the whole
weekend, just ask Russell Jay from Mix 88.5 FM radio station and
Soundzgood Discotheques, who kept us amused with his style on the mike
and the music.
A final mention should also be made of the boys and girls from the
Croston House Children’s Home, who provided the ball persons for the
weekend, they did an amazing job especially as they had never seen a
game of rugby before! David Viccars the referees’ supremo praised them
highly saying, “that he had never officiated in a tournament where the
ball persons had been so effective and worked so hard”.
The Barbarians (dark shirts) put a hit on their
opponents.
The Pattaya Panthers attempt a break out against
Bangkok University.
Left, the Panthers cross the try line and right, it’s
too much excitement for some.
Surawittayakarn School from Surin finished runners up
in the U18 tournament.
The Pattaya Panthers line up.
Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge
The
riders get underway at the start of the 2010
Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge on Phratamnak Hill.
Phasakorn Channgam
Switching categories proved to be a wrong turn for a
Thai cyclist who won a silver medal at the 25th
Southeast Asian Games for downhill cycling, but lost in the ‘Open’
mountain biking contest at the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge.
The riders tackle the tough course.
Am-Ussanee Pradabyat failed to even complete the
course at the April 25 event that saw 300 athletes ride for fun and
glory at Khao Thappraya Public Park.
Eighteen medals were up for grabs at the Mountain
Bike Challenge with competitors facing off in age groups starting with
children under 10, women and men over 35, men over 85kg, and a 4km
‘Open’ category (where Am-Usanee failed) for all participants.
The top three winners in each group were given trophies by Mayor
Itthiphol Kunplome, with others being awarded honorary plaques.
Pattaya City Council members Chanansa Sutthithamrongsawat and Adison
Phonlookin together with Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome pose with the youngest
biker, 5-year-old Alongkot Sootsuwan from the Pattaya Bike Club, who was
the winner in the maximum 10 years of age category
Pattaya City Council Vice President Adison Phonlookin presents an
award to the winner in the maximum 12 years of age category, Pasin
Tangsoongsawang from the Lampang Bike Club.
Convincing win for Pattaya
Cricket Club as records broken
Staff Reporters
PCC entertained Asian Star CC at Horseshoe Point last
Sunday looking to avenge their defeat from earlier in the season. Searing
heat greeted the captains for the all important toss before the start of the
25 over game and to PCC’s delight the King’s head glinted up into the
sunlight and the home team captain had no hesitation in electing to bat.
Earl Brown captured three wickets in three consecutive
balls against the Asian Star CC last weekend.
Sonny and Greg Bicknell, both making their debuts, opened
the innings against an aggressive new ball attack of Kamlesh and Dimple.
Occupation of the crease was the objective and slowly the batsmen adjusted
to the conditions and runs began to flow. The first drinks break after 12
overs, with the score at 99 for 0, represented a solid platform from which
PCC could launch a concerted attack towards a total in excess of 200.
Greg, with his lips a pale shade of white due to
dehydration, walked past a straight one having scored an uncomplicated 51
and Simon Philbrook joined Sonny to continue the onslaught. The pair
increased the tempo further, with Sonny finding the boundary regularly to
race to his fantastic hundred off only 72 balls and become the first PCC
centurion. The pair put on 110 before Simon departed for 38 from 34 balls
and Sonny for a brilliant 109. Salman and Hansie maintained the impetus with
some lusty blows to reach an imposing total of 228 for 3, a record score at
the newly formed ground.
Sunny and Pintoo needed to give the Asian Stars a good
start, but Salman and Samy had other ideas. Bowling their allotted 5 overs
apiece unchanged, they reduced ASCC to 35 for 5 after 10 overs. Such miserly
bowling accounted for the top order and they were well supported by some
exemplary catching, the highlight being the full length dive and one handed
catch at short cover off a fierce drive from the dangerous Dimple by the
Captain Simon Philbrook, a moment that rolled back the years. Samy finished
with fabulous figures of 4 for 15 off his 5 overs.
At this stage PCC were in complete control and after a
welcome drinks break Earl Brown started a bemusing 4 over spell. He began as
if he was trying to bowl ASCC back into the match, conceding 36 runs off his
first 17 deliveries. Then, obviously fired up by the underhand comments from
his teammates, he claimed the wicket of Ashok with last ball of his third
over. With the confidence of his skipper behind him he returned to capture
the wicket of Happy with the first ball of his fourth over and then
completed his remarkable comeback by removing Ronny, caught at square leg,
with his next delivery.
This sequence of events meant Earl had recorded the
Club’s first hat-trick and everyone was treated to a 16 stone (formerly 17
stone) high five celebration that would not have looked out of place at the
World T20 final. Sonny and Hansie wrapped up the last two wickets to
complete a deserved 112 run victory. For the record all 10 wickets were out
caught, a remarkable feat when you consider the team’s catching history!
A special thanks goes to the umpires Kim and Rabbi who
endured Sahara like conditions and the scorer Debs for her accurate
bookkeeping.
PCC’s next fixture is on Sunday, May 16 against a Pattaya Panthers rugby
team in an 8-a-side game. It is quite possible more beers will be drunk than
runs scored, but a fun day is assured.
Arm wrestling this weekend
Staff Reporters
This coming Saturday and Sunday will see muscles rippling
and bodies sweating as amateur arm wrestlers descend on Pattaya’s Royal
Garden Plaza to compete in the Pattaya International Arm Wrestling
Championship Contest 2010.
Arm wrestling at Pattaya Royal Garden Plaza.
As in past years, the competition will be open to anyone
wishing to test out their strength against the strongest arms in town and
there will be several weight categories to suit all shapes and sizes.
The arm wrestling contest takes place on Saturday, May 15
and will be followed on Sunday, May 16, with the Healthy Muscle Contest held
at the same venue. Altogether there will be some 200,000 baht in prize money
on offer to the winners.
For more information or to sign up, call 081-623-1006.
Novero seals points for United as Chonburi extend their lead
Staff Reporters
 Pattaya
United climbed to a season high fifth place in the Thai Premier League
following their 1-0 victory over struggling Bangkok United at the Thai-Japan
Stadium last Sunday.
The Dolphins entered
the game six places above their relegation threatened opponents and went on
the offensive from the opening kick-off, with Arlindo’s header being well
saved by Weera Koedpudsa following a great cross by Ittipol Poolsap.
Indeed, it was Ittipol who nearly broke the deadlock himself just 5 minutes
later when his 30 yard free kick again brought the best out of Koedpudsa in
the Bangkok goal.
The home team finally
found their feet and forward Kraison Panjaroen forced ‘Dolphins’ keeper
Narit into a fine save in the 17th minute.
However, Pattaya hit straight back at the other end of the field and in some
style. Ittipol swung a corner into the Bangkok penalty area and Jérémy
Novero was on hand to produce a spectacular scissor kick that beat Koedpudsa
all ends up and gave Pattaya a crucial 1-0 lead. It was Novero’s second
goal in as many games for Pattaya following his opener against Bangkok Glass
the previous week.
There were several
chances for both teams in the remainder of the first half but they were for
the most part all long range efforts and both keepers were able to deal with
them comfortably.
Bangkok rang the
changes at half time with coach Worrakon replacing midfielder Rattapon
Piyawuttisakun with the more attacking option of Sattrupai Sri-narong. This
seemed to fire up the home team and Sattrupai was unlucky to see one effort
headed off the line by a Pattaya defender and a second shot well saved by
Narit.
The Pattaya United
goalkeeper was injured soon after in a collision with a Bangkok forward and
had to be replaced by Prasit Kotmaha, however, the home side were unable to
put any sustained pressure on the new keeper and Pattaya were able to see
out the remainder of the match relatively trouble free.
Dolphins coach
Thawatchai was delighted with the three points and said that his team’s
performance is getting better with every game as the season progresses.
At the top of the
league, Chonburi FC still lead the standings after they secured a fine 2-0
away win at TOT FC on Saturday. First half strikes from Pipob On-mo and
Therdsak Chaiman gave the Sharks a well deserved half time lead and they
were unlucky not to add to their goal tally in the second period which saw
constant pressure on the home team’s goal.
Chonburi now have a
two point lead over SCG Samut Songkhram who have played one more game than
the Sharks. Defending champions Muangthong United could only manage a
midweek draw against Buriram FC and are now 3 points off the pace.
Late FC Nova winner earns cup victory over local rivals
MBMG International League Cup
Team FC Nova.
The much anticipated clash between the top two Pattaya
amateur soccer teams took place on a very hot afternoon at Horseshoe Point
on Saturday, May 1.
Pattaya City, the 1st Division champions, were the clear
favorites for this game, but 2nd Division FC Nova started very well and were
unlucky not to have scored first when a stunning shot from their man of the
match Bjorn Ellingsen hit the bar and went out for a goal kick with the
keeper beaten.
Pattaya City also had a couple of chances of their own in
the first half but failed to take them and the score remained 0-0 at half
time was, reflecting what was a hard fought 45 minutes.
The second half started in much the same vein with both
teams having chances to score in an end-to-end encounter. Then, with just
nine minutes left on the clock, a hard-driven shot from Nova’s Nicklas
Johansson beat the City goalkeeper low to his right hand side for Nova to go
one-up. The Nova supporters in the crowd of over one hundred local expats
and friends went wild with delight and the underdogs were leading! Despite
some late pressure by City, who brought a fine late save out of Todd
Kingford, FC Nova held on till the final whistle for a hard fought but well
deserved win.
This report has been written by the Manager of FC Nova
who would like to thank Pattaya City for a well contested game and extend a
special thanks to all the people who came and supported both teams.
After the match, players from both teams retired to Jameson’s The Irish
Pub, sponsor of FC Nova Pattaya, for refreshments, in a positive post-match
atmosphere.
City move one step nearer to the double
MBMG International League Cup
Monday, April 26, Pattaya
C.C. - Stableford
Paul Frain
Pattaya City, who lost their final group game to local
rivals FC Nova the previous week (see report above), knew they would have to
be alert against their old foes Cosmos in the quarter finals of the League
Cup last weekend. The two top teams of each group qualified for the quarter
final draw in which City had finished on top of the pile.
With the temperature hitting the 40 degree mark, both
teams started slowly with the first attempt coming from City’s earnest
Dipita, but his shot was far too weak to trouble the keeper. Cosmos then got
round the back of City’s defense, but the centre was hit wildly and sailed
over the bar.
City spread the ball around and made the Cosmos players
chase around in the heat but the finishing by the Pattaya team was poor,
although Patrice Lowe nearly scored with a powerful header that just sailed
over the bar. The same player then sent a superb ball to Phompong Fungkajorn
whose fierce shot was partly saved by the Cosmos keeper, but it trickled
over the line to make it 1-0 to City.
Cosmos retaliated, but corners and free kicks were
totally wasted. Then City went 2-0 up as man of the match Fungajorn robbed a
Cosmos defender and passed the ball square across goal to leading scorer
Peter Ndjanna who side footed the ball into the empty net.
Two more goal bound shots by City’s Fineman brought good
saves from the Cosmos keeper but then City were rocked on their heels after
Cosmos gained a corner and the ball was back headed across goal to an
unmarked Cosmos forward who made no mistake to make it 2-1. Cosmos managed
to keep the pressure on but could not create the chances they desired and
the score remained 2-1 to the City at half time.
City opened up strongly in the second half and Peter
Ndjanna missed a great chance to put his side further ahead. Then, after a
midfield tussle Cosmos had a player sent off, but it was the 10 man Bangkok
team who applied the pressure, first hitting the side netting and then
missing a simple tap in as the ball went the wrong side of the post. They
put more pressure on the City defense when a 35 yard volley had to be well
saved by the Pattaya keeper.
City, with a man advantage, finally began to assert some
control on the match and Fungkajorn went on a run on the right, beating
three men and attempting an audacious chip that was only stopped by the
Cosmos keeper’s fingertips. City’s Mathews Knorr then beat two Cosmos
players down the left and centered the ball which was missed by everybody
and except Fungkajorn who spectacularly scissor kick the ball into the net
to make it 3-1 to City. Cosmos then had a let off when Earnest Dipita’s shot
rattled the bar just before the final whistle.
This was a polished performance by Pattaya City who were
worthy winners, but credit to all the players of both sides for an exciting
match in such hot conditions.
Pattaya City now go through to the semi-finals which will
be held at the Pattana School in Bangkok this coming weekend.
Jack and the Cap’n capture Birthday Cup
PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Birthday Cup winners, Capt’ Bob & General Jack with
runners up
William Macey & Tony Oakes.
Joey’s column
Tuesday, May 4,
Pattaya C.C. – Stableoford
Today was a special day at the Outback Golf bar as
co-owner Jack Moseley was celebrating his 60th Birthday with 68
Outbackers and also achieving a score of 62.5
On this occasion Jack decided to have a two person
scramble at Pattaya Country Club - who gave us an attractive rate on a
course that we have supported on a weekly basis over the past two years.
We had fifteen tee times booked but on the day we required another two,
following a number of additional players who wanted to play – all were
accommodated thanks to PCC and the organising team of Bob and Chad.
So the day began for most with a breakfast at the
Outback and a welcome from the ‘birthday boy’ himself.
Arriving at Pattaya Country Club there was the usual
warm greetings from the staff and we were quickly booked in. The first
groups were away just before time thanks again to the efficient starter
who ensured there were no interruptions. Many had not played this course
for some time and were pleasantly surprised at its satisfactory
condition. Unfortunately the rain, so desperately needed in Pattaya,
arrived and it did mean a couple of hold ups for all but the very early
groups.
The round over, it was back to the Outback where a
number of friends who did not play came to join in the celebrations.
After a few beers and serious discussions about the rounds and what they
could have been, it was time to hear the results.
Bob Philp announced the top eight places and a few
other ‘special prizes’! Jack then presented the near pins he sponsored –
and the one he won himself went into a lucky draw and was won by Frank
O’Neill.
The runners-up were the team of two senior members of
Pattaya Sports Club, Vice President Tony Oakes and Charity and Golf
Chairman, William Macey with a net 62.75 off their 6.5 handicap.
It was now time for the winners to be announced and
here was a little bit of Outback history. Over the last two and a half
years there have been a number of Birthday Cup competitions but never
has the sponsor won his own cup – until today! Jack teamed up with
friend and business partner, Bob Philp, who came in with a fine score of
62.5 off their 4.5 handicap. This was followed by much applause and
congratulations from the packed bar.
Outback food was then laid out with the famous
cottage pie, spaghetti bolognese and some Thai food; enjoyed by all and
provided by Jack. For the first time there was live music that made for
a great atmosphere, and put us all into a party mood which continued
well into the night.
Thanks Jack for another excellent day – and we all
give Good Wishes to you and the Outback Bar for the future.
1st Bob Philp & Jack Moseley
net 62.5
2nd Tony Oakes & William Macey net 62.75
3rd Kevin Watson & James Moreton net 64
4th Lamun Hanley & Chant Schwulera net 64.25
5th Alan Bishop & Steve Roach net 64.5
6th Paul Greenaway & Rosco Langoulant net 64.75
7th Anton Schuett & Mick Moore 65.5
8th Marty Allred & Ken McCarthy 65.9
Friday, May 7, Laem
Chabang - Stableford
The Laem Chabang course, that currently has all of
its white tee boxes out of commission, was supposed to have been set by
Capt’ Bob & General Jack as a combination of red and blue tees at around
6,350 yards. Our early groups, who teed off a couple of hours ahead of
the pack, put out the Outback Tee box markers as intended, however, when
the main group teed off on A (Mountain), there were no markers to be
seen.
We later discovered all our markers in the back of
the cart belonging to an entirely different group of golfers (??) from
Australia, who had been instructed to pick up their par 3 near pin
markers pertaining to their tournament; however upon seeing the
kangaroo, decided to pick up our markers as well. Thanks boys for
ruining our competition. So as a result we had 7 players (their separate
results coming later) out of a total of 39 Outbackers, playing a longer
course.
Jim Moreton (42pts) romped to a three shot win in Div
A over Tony Garnett (39pts), who was four ahead of two players, Peter
Stonebridge & Tom Clark both on 35. Div B was taken by Bob Lindborg
(37pts) with Alan Bishop second on 35 points and Glen Elsworth, who
we’ve not seen for some time, welcome back, in third on 34.
There were just two ‘2’s from Tony Schuett and Bernie
Segrave.
Div A (0–15)
1st James Moreton (14) 42pts
2nd Tony Garnett (11) 39pts
3rd Peter Stonebridge (14) 35pts
4th Tom Clark (12) 35pts
Div B (16+)
1st Bob Lindborg (18) 37pts
2nd Alan Bishop (19) 35pts
3rd Glen Elsworth (17) 34pts
4th
Brian Maddox (18) 33pts
Note: 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.
Downey dominates
at Laem Chabang
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Thomas Cotton &
Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 4, Laem
Chabang - Stableford
Well now that the peak season has turned to weak season,
the golf courses are dropping their prices and this is opening the door for
some old expensive favourites, which heretofore the clientele of Tropical
Bert’s had eschewed.
Tuesday’s winner Brian Downey, right, with runner up Dick Warberg.
After we paid our fees and got to the tees, we found out
that our start would be delayed by more than half an hour due to the late
arrivals of a gang of itinerant Aussies. So the reviews of the venue were
rather mixed and there was considerably more enthusiasm for returning to the
nomadic existence of wandering from course to course in search of the best
deal. “Sports Day” at the course can sometimes mean “swarm day” as the
pocket book players converge on the bargain.
Your correspondent (TC) was in fact so disenthralled by
the late start that he fell asleep in between holes. The two buddies Brian
and Dick, who did not suffer from your correspondent’s ennui, stayed wide
awake, played well and won the day.
1st Brian Downey 38pts
2nd Dick Warberg 36pts
3rd Bernie Seagrave 35pts
4th Mick O’Meara 33 pts
Near Pins: Thomas Cotton, Walter Baechli, Mick O’Connor, Alex Smith.
Long Putts: Graham Buckingham, Brian Strang.
Friday, May 7, Khao Kheow
C & A - Medal
After a full week of golf, including the Ray Rogers
Memorial Scramble the day before, it was not surprising that the phone was
ringing with cancellations early on this morning. However, a couple players
who had not signed up did show up and so six of us headed off up the 7 to
tackle what is one of the more difficult courses we play.
At the course several other groups, larger than ours,
were also checking in but after changing and talking to the starter our two
three-balls were sent off the C nine a bit earlier than our scheduled tee
time. Due to our small numbers, it was decided to play a game of skins
rather than our normal stableford game.
The course was in very good condition as is the usual
case here and other than the very hot and humid conditions the day was very
good. With plenty of water, all six managed to make it around in good shape,
although there were probably some slow movers the next day.
Showered and sat in the fine restaurant, the players
gross scores were tallied for handicap purposes and the fun of replaying the
18 holes to determine the winners of the skins. This was a bit of fun since
we played in two three-balls we only knew how we had stacked up against the
people we played with. In the end, Nigel Perry won 8 skins, followed by Joel
Flor with 5, Eddie Blackwell with 3, Walter Baechli with 1, and the 18th
hole was halved.
It was a good day for those that showed, even with the heat and humidity.
Dale stays on course for hat trick
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
The Three Sisters group was out bright and early on
April 28, the players vying for the honor of having one of their names
engraved on the monthly trophy which was kindly donated by Andy Bettany
more than eight years ago. The winners of the month have been added ever
since then, with many notables having their names etched on the trophy
up to this point.
Paul Kinmond, left, with runner up Dale Murphy.
At the end of April, it was Dale Murphy at the head
of the group with 35 points, followed 3 strokes back at 32 by Bill
Thompson. This made Dale the winner for two months in a row, but no one
in the eight years of competition has yet done the hat trick by winning
three in a row. Sus Ige has also done two in a row but failed at the
third attempt. Dale will have his chance next month to set a record.
Last week, May 5, the group was again out early at daybreak to play
at the regular venue of Pattaya Country Club and taking the honors for
the day was Paul Kinmond with 37 points. Paul, a very deliberate player,
stayed on course by making every shot count. He beat out Dale Murphy by
3 strokes to finish top of the leader board. Dale, with his new driver,
couldn’t quite get control of his drives off the tee and he pushed a few
to the right which ultimately cost him the chance of back to back wins.
Three out of four ain’t bad
PSC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday, May 5, Green
Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Billy Burke (12) 43pts
2nd Steve Mulberry (10) 41pts
B Flight
1st Ed Wyckoff (13) 38pts
2nd Colin Davis (16) 36pts
Red Flight
1st Mike Craighead (17) 40pts
Near Pins: No2 Chris Davisson, No9 Ian Grout, No12
Yui Bietry, No16 Jum Karagit.
Something woke the gang up, was it the fact that there is
not a drop of the black stuff left in Pattaya, or perhaps it was the turning
up of the infamous ‘Co. Offaly Gang’ pair of Matt Doyle and Kevin Mcentee.
Whatever it was it sent the scores sky high.
Sunday’s best: Billy Burke, Mike Craighead and Ed Wyckoff.
Winning the day and calling time in the senior flight was
the Tip man and ex landlord Billy Burke, playing off his old handicap, with
a splendid 43 points. Club Champion Steve Mulberry must have thought he had
done enough with 41 to take the day but he only managed the runner up spot.
Ed ‘The right honorable’ Wyckoff put together a fine 38
points to take the junior honours while ‘The Donkey’ did the spade work for
second with an even par round.
Mike ‘the mechanic’ Craighead did the bizz in the Red
Flight, posting a hefty 40 point return. Yui Bietry’s two no scoring holes
turned out to be very costly as she finished two shots adrift of Mike.
Tuesday, May 4, Phoenix - Stableford
A Flight
1st Peter Hynard (14) 39pts
2nd Terry Mangan (11) 39pts
B Flight
1st Carmel Burke (28) 39pts
2nd Lou Szigligeti (20) 38pts
It is always tough to lose a count back and it is always
tough not to win when you have 39 points. Well it happened to Irishman Terry
Mangan as he was left with second place in A Flight.
Co. Tippary’s Carmel Burke needed the same 39 points to
win B Flight for the second win of the week for the Burke household. Lou
Zigzag rounded out the podium places finishing a shot shy.
Peter Hynard also took home the ‘2’s pot.
Wednesday, May 5, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Terry Mangan (11) 38pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (18) 34pts
3rd Yui Bietry (12) 34pts
Irishman Terry Mangan made no mistake today, after
Tuesday’s count back defeat, to post the only sub-par round of the day.
Terry’s 38 points left ‘The President’ in a tie with Yui Bietry as both were
locked on 34 points. ‘The President’ was adjudged to have had the better
back side, how I don’t know.
Yui made up for her count back defeat by notching the
only ‘2’ of the day.
Friday, May 7, Khao Kheow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Seamus Cotter (12) 37pts
2nd Kevin McNtee (7) 36pts
B Flight
1st Carmel Burke (22) 44pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (19) 37pts
As I recall, in the song, Meatloaf was not referring to
golf when he wrote the title words to this week’s submittal, but then he was
not as good a golfer as either Billy or Carmel Burke. Carmel’s massive 44
points gave her a second win of the week, to add to Billy’s heroics on
Sunday. Pierre ‘the Magician’ filled the flight seven shots short of Carmel.
Kevin McNtee is slowly creeping back to form and today
had a count back win over the unlucky Mod Churaiksa, both carding even par
rounds in the senior flight. Ending the week the same way as he did the last
was Seamus ‘the Captain’ Cotter with a rock solid 37 points.
Justin Fowlis, Paul Young, Peter Hynard, Billy Burke and
Jim Elphick shared the ‘2’s pot.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi
13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us, just pop in and
add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is
provided.
Plan comes together for the A Team
2010 ‘Papa’ Ray Rogers Memorial Scramble
Gary, 2 nd
right, and Dave, far right, present
the prizes to the winning ‘Birdie
Boys’ A Team.
Derek Brook
Thursday, May 6,
Plutaluang N&S
The legend continues and gains strength as the years
go by. When Ray went to the ‘great golf course in the sky’ his nephew
Gary declared that as long as he was around his uncle would not be
forgotten, and fully supported by his friends, this tournament will
continue to go forward from strength to strength in the future.
Dave Richardson continues to be the strength of the
‘organization’ side, with Max giving great help as usual to produce the
results, and the Scribe - the ever faithful reporter. It cannot be said
too much how the friends of Papa Ray and Gary rally around and
particular thanks go to Bjarne and his family from the Cafe Kronborg who
provided the refreshments and the ‘cold one’s’. Also to perpetual helper
George Bennison and those who, despite playing no other tournament, will
turn up for this one year in and year out.
Gary and Dave with the runner up team, ‘The Warbergers’.
Despite being the ‘major sponsor’ and provider of his
home for the day, Gary is to be commended for the way he throws himself
into the whole event. I know his uncle would be very proud of him. Thank
you Gary from all those who remember Ray so fondly.
On to the day and Dave, after a period when the
turnout looked a little sparse (after all, ash clouds and the financial
situation in the world spare very few), had 16 groups signed up and very
commendable it was in these hard times.
The players all turned up at Plutaluang on time and
apart from the Scribe, whose better half decided to take the car to the
car wash with mine and Nigel’s clubs in, the day started really well,
with all off on time. Incidentally, the rent of a set of clubs at
Plutatluang is 400 baht and unless you like playing with a set of
different clubs, everyone, take your own. That is T.I.T. but you have to
smile.
Talking of having to smile, it poured down, I mean
really hammered it down, and it all depended where you were when it
started as to how you rode the storm. As they say, ‘I was all right
Jack’ as we had just finished S8 and as such could shelter in the old
club house. Yes it leaks now, but we were fine. I was really, really
concerned about the rest getting wet!
Dave, far right, with the third placed ‘Birdie Boys’
Red Team.
The course was in pretty reasonable condition and
when the rain stopped we were able to get on with our round - that is
after a little break to allow the greens to drain. We really did not see
anyone ahead or behind, as The Admiral’s group was ahead and he sails
majestically over troubled waters.
Here the Admiral would like to thank Plutaluang for
the care they took of us all, particularly in not throwing groups
between us. So we got around and a bit soggy, but skin is waterproof, so
after a nice hot shower we were able to smile and look to the
presentation back at Gary’s house.
Back at the ranch, Gary was racing around sorting out
a shirt for all the players. I tried to take a photo but he had his
working clothes on and was dripping wet, so for a beer I waited until he
changed and then was in his R.R. Monogrammed gear, very smart he looked.
I mention this because for many years Papa Ray used to host two days a
year and provide a memento for all the players. Most of us still have a
towel or hat, bag or umbrella, etc.
While this went on Max was working on the results and
all were in the queue for food. And very fine it was indeed and enjoyed
by all. Then ‘The Admiral’, our Emcee took to the stage and proceeded to
declare the results and say the thanks.
The results had a familiar ring to them. In third
place was the ‘Birdie Boys’ Red Team consisting of Rick Holmes, Roy
Thornton, John Emerson and Jeremy Massey with a fine net 58.4. Taking
second place were ‘The Warbergers’ with Dick Warberg, Bill Knight, Joel
Flor and Bike O’Brien returning a creditable net 57.2. So to the
winners, and by over two shots the champions were the ‘Birdie Boys’ A
Team of Russell Exley, Chris Voller, Grant Cadelly and Michael Anderson
with a net 55.1.
We then got onto the Lucky Draw and Dave had a small
surprise for all those who attended, and thankfully it was nearly all,
with gifts such as a sleeve of balls, a PSC cap, and for the lucky few a
print in a frame brought back by Gary.
At the end of the day many stopped on to drink the
bar empty and to raise a glass to ‘Old Ray’ wherever he is. Thanks to
all from Gary and T.T.F.N. until next year!
Near Pins: Roy Thornton, Big Trevor, Daryl White
and Mickey Leighton.
Long Putt: Dick Warberg, Yeow Gale.
The Cap’n sails home
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday, May 3, Mountain
Shadow - Stableford
1st Trevor Schirmer (15) 36pts
2nd Brian Talbot (12) 32pts
3rd Jens Gunnarsson (12) 32pts
4th
John Teague (21) 31pts
After a short hiatus away from Crystal Bay and Mountain
Shadow whilst the management recalculated their pricing structure (for what
has turned out to be the very low season), the Soi 13 golfers returned to
play from the blue tees on a course that was reputedly designed with
handicappers of 15 and below in mind. That was born out in the competition
with only Trevor Schirmer keeping it straight enough to play to his handicap
and heading the days list of hopefuls by four clear shots, with a display of
control and steady nerves on the intimidating greens.
Brian Talbot once again figured in the winners with a
better count back over Jens Gunnarsson of 17 to 16 to take second place.
John Teague got an honourable mention for his first outing for several
months as he finished another shot further back in fourth.
Brian Talbot slipped in the only ‘2’ in the first
division and B.J. Smith made up for an otherwise disappointing day with the
only one in the second division.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back John
Teague and Akihito Hashimoto.
Wednesday, May 5, Green
Valley -Stableford
1st Chris Knapp (17) 38pts
2nd Orawan Meeraka (32) 36pts
3rd John Harris (16) 36pts
4th
Brian Talbot (12) 35pts
The best score of the week was returned by The Cap’n
(Chris Knapp) with a very sound round built as ever on a solid swing and
incredibly sensitive feel on and around the greens. It cannot be long before
he will once again be found heading towards the first division handicap
list, following several sessions with the “Swing Guru and Technical Master”,
namely Al Keith, whose lessons have been well learnt and now are being put
to good use on the course.
Orawan Meeraka, having just missed out during the
previous week’s competitions, took a well deserved second place ahead of
John Harris with a better back nine of 21 to 19, with Brian Talbot once
again in the reckoning another shot back in fourth place.
There were no 2’s in the first division but Chris Knapp
added to the day’s haul with the only one in the second division.
Back at The Haven Peter Sumner and Derek Holt were
welcomed back. It was a special welcome for Derek, who last played at the
beginning of February when he suffered a heart attack whilst playing and was
whisked off to hospital. He is now almost back to his old self although the
rust marks are showing a little, which he assures everyone will soon be
gone.
Friday, May 7, The Emerald
- Stableford
1st Tom Byrne (12) 37pts
2nd Alec Hoare (16) 31pts
3rd Steve Bickle (18) 31pts
4th
Alan Pilkington (12) 31pts
Tom Byrne has seen a bit of a renaissance recently as his
handicap has reduced from 14 to a now very competitive 11, and all this
achieved in the last two weeks as he has managed to play below handicap and
come down in each of his last four outings.
Today’s result left him six shots clear of the nearest
rival as he serenely stroked it round the Emerald where conditions were far
from ideal. The weather was extremely hot and humid with a number of the
players suffering from the heat exhaustion, it was an extreme test of
players concentration and Tom did very well to keep it going right to the
end for yet another win.
Alec Hoare, one of Tom’s playing partners, could only
watch and marvel at his consistency as he was the next best of the day, but
he needed to win the count back from Steve Bickle, which he did over the
last six with a better 12 to 11 after they had both scored 15 on the inward
nine.
Alan Pilkington just missed out for second spot on his
own, as he blobbed the last hole to lose the back nine with a meager 14
points for fourth place.
There were no 2’s in either division.
Prior to the presentations, Steve Bickle was welcomed
back having refused the advice of his travel company “to not travel to
Thailand while it is so dangerous”. Sensibly not relying on the ill
informed, he checked with “Those that know in Pattaya” and arrived to wonder
what all the fuss was about. Let us hope a few more decide to disregard the
‘Tourist Prevention’ officers of the world, who seem to abound at the
moment.
Martin the master at Green Valley
PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside
Tuesday, May 4, Green
Valley - Stableford
Tuesday saw the Mulligans group head off to Green Valley,
our first game there since last year’s Low Season. The course was in good
condition, with smooth, well grassed fairways and true rolling greens, so no
excuses today.
Tuesday’s winner Martin Hayes.
Martin Hayes (13), a regular at Green Valley over the
preceding months, put that experience to good use to shoot 36 points and
lead the way home from Paddy Devereux (21), who played very well in patches,
with 34 points, while Jeff Wylie (7) took the low spot on the podium with
33.
Just the one flight today as several of our regular crew
had made a sojourn to Soi Dao, where good scores were thin on the ground we
are led to believe, but a good time was had by all.
Near pins at Green Valley were spread around amongst Ken,
Jeff, K and Ian.
Thursday, May 6, Greenwood
- Stableford
Thursday dawned and we were off to Greenwood for the
second week in a row, hoping to find some redemption after the course won
most of the battles the previous week. Numbers were swelled back to 2
flights following the return of our Soi Dao visitors, with the split at 0-19
& 20+, and this was to prove critical for some.
In the A Flight it was Jeff Wylie (7) who gained some
semblance of revenge with 36 points (after last week’s 27) on the same A & B
layouts, leading the way, just edging Graham Hiskett (13) on a count back of
the back nine, 21 to 19.
The B Flight scores dropped off markedly with K (22)
surviving best with 29 points, ahead of Keith Hudson (22) who had 28. Keith
required a count back over Paddy to propel himself in to the collection
frame, going down to the last 3 holes before he emerged triumphant.
Near Pins were won by Mike, Iain & Jeff, while 1 went
unclaimed, resulting in a 200 baht donation to the Banglamung Boys Home.
Again scores were not great this week, not even good
really, but we probably fared better than that bloke who was off 25 at Khao
Kheow, with the new ratings. He shot 31 points (5 worse than his h/c), 10
times and got cut a shot. They were his best 10 scores too. If he keeps
going that good, he will be down to single figures in no time, after
shooting 30 points off his new handicap!
Speaking of single figures (better really),
congratulations to part time Mulligans golfer Darren Ottaway, the heartiest
and warmest of good wishes on his marriage. Well done Darren and all the
best from your many friends at Mulligans Lakeside.
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. Hope to see you there,
Cheers & Good Golfing!
Chop simply top drawer at Rayong
PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg
Peter Blackburn
Monday, May 3, Rayong C.C.
Stableford
Playing golf in Thailand on a Public Holiday is generally
an “interesting” experience with higher prices and busier courses but
today’s outing at Rayong Counter Club proved to be quite the contrary.
Flight winners, from left: Joseph Bensoussan and Chop
Daprakhon with The Admiral.
We had 15 starters and departed Café Kronborg at 0815 on
the dot and once more, thanks to the new motorway exit off Sukhumvit Road,
our travel time to the course was around 40 minutes which shaved at least
ten minutes off previous trips. We were surprised to see the car park almost
empty on arrival and even more surprised to view the “Public Holiday
Special” on display detailing green fee, caddy fee and one man cart at 1,150
baht – excellent value which most took advantage of.
We were invited to tee off at our leisure and our first
group got away at 0930 in almost perfect conditions for golf. The course was
in very good shape with very few brown patches on the fairways due
apparently to quite a bit of recent rain in the area. The greens were also
in good shape although our group had a fair bit of trouble reading them and
“working out the grain”.
This was my last game for several weeks as I am heading
back home to Perth, Australia for a few weeks and from the way I played it
was apparent that the break was coming at the right time. An almost empty
course allowed us to complete our round in the excellent time of four hours
& five minutes which included three drink stops. Scoring for the day was
fairly ordinary with the exception of one “bolter” who absolutely blitzed
the rest of us by a whopping twelve points.
Having his handicap cut to 14 due to recent good
performances did not deter Joseph Bensoussan who won the A Flight on a count
back from his good friend Mike Allidi. The consistent Mike “Hunter” Gosden
finished third.
B Flight was fairly dominated by the ladies who took out
first and third places. Chop Daprakhon had a great day out in winning the B
Flight with 45 points from Daniel Jouenne in second place. Another Thai
lady, Faneta Nuaephotong finished third on a count back from J Claude Coulon.
A Flight (0-19)
1st Joseph Bensoussan (14) 33pts
2nd Mike Allidi (4) 33pts
3rd Mike Gosden (8) 31pts
B Flight (20+)
1st Chop Daprakhon (20) 45pts
2nd Daniel Jouenne (36) 33pts
3rd Faneta Nuaephotong (34) 31pts
Washout at Bangpra
Golf from the Travellers Rest
Saturday winners from Khao Kheow: Mod Chaviraksa and
Amphan North with Daryl Ottoway, Derek Thorogood and Billy Allan.
Barry Hooper
For the first time in the history of the TRGG an outing
had to be completely abandoned on Monday due to rain at Bangpra. We have had
delays and players not completing outings in the past, but never a complete
abandonment by all competitors. Despite many stops and starts the rain
continued to keep coming back and eventually it completely flooded the
course and made playing on impossible.
On a completely different note I have been asked to
praise the staff at Khao Kheow for the excellent way that they attended to a
player with ice packs etc. when he collapsed on the course on Saturday,
predominately it seems due to heat stroke. Praise is duly laid where it is
due.
This was the second time in the same week that someone
was taken ill due to this problem and forcefully brings home the point that
players really do have to take care and keep well hydrated when out playing
in what is intense heat at the moment. Please I beg you heed this advice.
Tuesday, May 4, Plutaluang – Stableford
1st Mike Rushant (13) 36pts
2nd Peter Roberts (15) 36pts
3rd Richard Hall (28) 34pts
4th Derek Thorogood (22) 33pts
After Monday’s washout at Bangpra we headed out to
Plutaluang on Tuesday with a fair number of participants to play the North
and South courses.
Just the one division and this was headed by Mike Rushant
with an even par 36 points (and a cut in handicap to twelve as a result)
after nipping it on the count back over Peter Roberts. Richard Hall came
third at 34 with Derek Thorogood just one back in forth after beating two
others on count back.
Three ‘2’s on the day came from Fergus Brennan (who is
still here in Thailand despite some rumours going around to the contrary),
Brian Foster and Glynn Furfie.
Mike Ensor personally sponsored the nearest the pin at
the island hole which Fergus picked up. Thanks Mike.
Thursday, May 6, Phoenix - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Amphan North (13) 37pts
2nd John Goudge (6) 35pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (10) 35pts
Div. 2
1st Derek Thorogood (22) 36pts
2nd Roger Wilkinson (16) 35pts
3rd Stephen Deakin (16) 32pts
Thursday was our usual day out to Phoenix, this week
playing the Mountain and Ocean nines. We had a very big attendance so two
full divisions.
The second flight found Derek Thorogood improving greatly
on his Tuesday efforts and winning with an even par 36 points. One behind in
second was that regular supporter at the TRGG, Roger Wilkinson, and a
further three back was Stephen Deakin in third with 32 points. Alan Webber
and Alan Evans fought it out for fourth spot over count back with 31 points
each.
The top division had that regular lady player Amphan
North heading the list with a 37- pointer. John Goudge found himself two
back of her in second place after winning a three-way count back over Fergus
Brennan and Davis Nicholson.
Two ‘2’s came from Stephen Deakin and Amphan North, both
at the fourteenth.
Saturday, May 8, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Mod Chaviraksa (12) 35pts
2nd Amphan North (13) 34pts
3rd Daryl Ottoway (8) 33pts
4th John Goudge (5) 31pts
Div. 2
1st Derek Thorogood (21) 36pts
2nd Geoff Sanders (15) 26pts
3rd Billy Allan (14) 26pts
4th Thomas Knudson (25) 25pts
Saturday was a weekend visit to Khao Kheow and again we
had good support and two divisions.
This was to prove to be a ladies day battle in Division 1
between Mod Chaviraksa and Amphan North, with Mod just edging it by one at
35 points over Amphan’s 34. Daryl Ottaway was in third with his 33 points.
Division 2 was yet another win for Derek Thorogood and
his second of the week with 36 points. Geoff Sanders took second
(unfortunately missing at the photo shoot) with a lowly 26 points, edging
the count back over Billy Allan.
Five ‘2’s came from Tewin Lamthong (2, Mike Ensor, Derek
Thorogood and Amphan North.
Again two near pins were personally sponsored by Mike
Ensor and the winners were Tewin and Mod. Thanks yet again Mike for your
generosity.
Note: If you want any full and further information about the golf
outings played by the TRGG at the Travellers Rest Hotel, please contact the
proprietor Tewin Lamthong on 086 056 7019 or call in to the Travellers Rest
in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya.
If it’s Lakeside it must be forty
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar
The Pattaya Golf Society golfers always enjoy the first Tuesday in the
month when they travel to play at Royal Lakeside beyond Chonburi. It
gives the regular drivers a break as coaches are used and as the new
link has opened off Sukhumvit the club is now only 55 minutes from Soi
Buakhao.
On Tuesday, May 4, stableford at Royal Lakeside was on
the agenda and the group turned out in style and teed off on time as usual.
The advantages of the course are that it is never crowded, it is a forgiving
track in splendid condition and the greens are probably the truest one could
ever play. Therefore scores are always excellent here and it is a tremendous
boost for the golfer whose game is in the doldrums.
The single flight completed their individual rounds in
well under four hours and in third place was Dave Lehane, his forty points
marking the end of his golf this trip. The joint winners were Ronnie Ramsay
and Larry Slattery whose 41 point scores matched the average winning score
for the course.
Peter Ditz shot the day’s best gross of 82 and the ‘2’s
pot was shared by Brian Talbot (12) and Tony Thorne (15). The Booby Bevy
went to Pat Murphy by way of consolation as his 39 point card was destined
to win nothing but a cut in handicap.
Royal Lakeside had not disappointed and with the average
score at nearly 34 points the PGS golfers enjoyed an excellent day.
Wichai rides
out the storm
Green Valley lay under a blanket of heavy black clouds
when the Pattaya Golf Society visited on Thursday, May 6, to play a
stableford competition, its fiftieth of the year so far. The course was in
good condition generally but after an hour the greens and fairways had
become very wet after steady rain.
Having struggled to make an impact, most golfers found
their lot improved after the storm abated and to his credit Thai golfer
Wichai Tananusorn was the only one to post a front nine level par score. He
finished with a winning 35 point card, three ahead of nearest rivals
Masanori Takano, Larry Slattery and Len Jones, all on 32 points.
There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to
recently returned Bill Birkett whose low score bore testimony to his lack of
golf whilst hibernating in a UK winter.
Green Valley rarely disappoints, even in the rain!
Rookie Brendan Finds His
Feet
The Pattaya Golf Society teed off at an empty Eastern
Star on Saturday, May 8, in a stableford competition. The day was fine and
very humid and the course was quite well presented with very slow and
inconsistent greens. The field was hit by a clutch of late withdrawals and
only one flight contested the day.
A trio of fresh names found their way to the top of the
leaderboard with Pete Sumner, recently returned from UK, suffering in the
humidity to record a worthy level par 36 points for third place. The joint
winners were Masa Takano, his first PGS victory this trip, and rookie
Brendan Gilsenan playing only his second PGS competition. They both managed
37 points for a rare sub-par victory at the course.
Pete Sumner was joined in a share of the ‘2’s pot by
Brian Talbot and Len Jones’s day was completed with the honour of buying his
playing partners a drink for failing to make the red tee on the fourth as
his usually consistent and accurate driving was conspicuously absent.
It was good to welcome back old friends Shuichi Kodaka,
Pete Sumner and Brendan and for them the day was highlight enough at Eastern
Star.
Newell nips the field
PSC golf from The Golf Club
Tuesday, May 4, Green
Valley - Stableford
1st Bob Newell 35pts
2nd Todd Beddings 35pts
3rd Barry Snok 35pts
4th Bob
Allen 34pts
Luck had nothing to do with it as scoring 17 points on
the back nine, Bob Newell nipped out Todd Beddings (16) and Barry Snok (15)
on count back to take first place.
We welcomed back some familiar faces in the form of Todd,
Barry, Jeff Bueller and Nate Welchert.
Thursday, May 6, Greenwood
- Stableford
1st Johnathan Gant 39pts
2nd Bob Allen 36pts
3rd Mark Wood
36pts
Some great scores were turned in today; Johnathan Gant
played steady and took the top spot on 39 points (out in 20 and home in 19)
- well done! Bob Allen continued his winning ways and placed second after
edging Mark Wood on the back nine. Bob has recently returned from some R n’
R in Taiwan and it has suited him well.
The rest of the field were well behind these gents as the
A & B combination proved daunting to say the least.
Friday, May 7, Khao Kheow
- Stableford
1st Jeffrey Cordeiro 39pts
2nd Bob Newell 36pts
3rd Brad Sproxton 35pts
4th Steve
Snelgrove 35pts
Jeffrey Cordeiro’s 39 points matched the temperature on
the course today. Staying hydrated was as important as avoiding the water
hazards out there and Jeff handled both. Bob Newell was second with a steady
36 points and Brad Sproxton beat out Steve Snelgrove with a back nine 22
points to take third place.
Never have so many been so happy to get back to the
comforts of an air-conditioned room!
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro,
off Soi Buakhao and Soi Diana junction. We can be reached on 085 434 3377 or
[email protected] and our new website is www.golfclubpattaya.com.
Sea fishing with the
Pattaya Sports Club
Mike Gerrard
Ahoy me matey’s!
After a few trips with moderate catches, today, Saturday
May 1, started off well. With a good crew of 7 passengers we set sail at
about 7.30am with the sea calm and a cool breeze. A little cloud cover also
helped stop us all getting roasted.
Phil shows off his prize catch.
With the tides/water low, conditions were against
anchoring for the first part of the day, so, whilst drifting we set up all
the small rods and immediately started pulling up pla daeng and snapper.
Many fish similar to one shown in the photo by newcomer Phil were part of
the catch.
Later we started having bites on the big rods and poor
Dene Mundey managed to fight a huge corbier to the side of the boat, only
for the skipper to miss his aim with the gaff and cut the line instead of
hooking the fish. Never mind, as that was going on so another big corbier
bit into another rod and very soon we did manage to land this one. Then it
was the turn of Max Mathews to land a nice sand shark. Sadly the photo of
the corbier and the shark failed to come out on my camera, but take my word
they were there.
By about 4.30pm we were all pretty tired and looking
forward to a couple of beers back at base. Our next scheduled trip is set
for Saturday, May 15 and we do need a couple more to fill the boat. Anyone
interested, please call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565. After that it will be the
first Saturday of every month.
I would like to take this opportunity to explain to
everyone that we do not enjoy what some people call ‘big game fishing’. That
does not exist here in Pattaya. There are not the boats in this area that
are equipped to provide this sort of fishing, rather converted old fishing
boats that can take us around the islands where assorted fish preside.
The species range from 1lb pla daeng, grouper and snapper
up to 3 kilo’s and sometimes fish like queen fish, corbier, pompano & jacks
ranging from 4 to 5 kilo up to 20 kilo’s.
The most important part about the day is spending a
pleasant time on board a very comfortable boat and socialising with fellow
fishermen and women, relaxing and hopefully taking a bag full of fish home
for supper. However, it is a day of pure fishing only.
We sail from Bangsaray (approx 25km south of Pattaya). If
you have your own tackle that is fine, but rods, reels and all the tackle
you need is available at a small charge per rod. Also transport can be
arranged at a small fee also.
The trip cost for the day is usually about 1,500 baht for PSC members and
1,750 for non members (based on 7 passengers boarding). All fees must be
paid in advance at the PSC clubhouse, returnable only if the trip is
cancelled by the organisers.
USMC remains in first as Brother D makes a move
Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League
Somrak bowled a 213 game and 555 series to lead the U.S. Marines to a
three point win over second place Bavaria and increase their lead to two
and one half points with three weeks remaining in the league.
Somrak, the only 200 bowler.
Brother D meanwhile won all four points from Sabai Sabai Friday to move
from fourth to third place. Canada took three points from Café Ole and
they dropped from third to fourth place.
Bill Gibson bowled a 511 series to lead Green Tree to a
four point win over Indiana and VFW Post 9876 split their match against Jack
Tar with each team getting two points.
Most bowlers are still having trouble with the recently repaired lanes at
Pattaya Plus Bowl and not many good games have been recorded.
Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson
This bridge hand
is another from Eddie Kantar, the well known bridge author. He
confessed that, many years ago, he played it in 6C and is ashamed to say
that he went down. This is your chance to show him up. South dealt and
NS were vulnerable. This was the bidding:
South West North East
1N P 2S Dbl
3C P 6C All pass
North’s 2S bid is
minor suit Stayman, just like regular Stayman except that you are asking for
the no trump opener’s four card minor, rather than asking about a four card
major. East’s double asks for a spade lead. West obediently led the ten of
spades.
Imagine you are
sitting South. Even after looking at the following diagram you do not know
the location of the queen of diamonds. What is your plan to make the
contract no matter who has this queen?
S: AQ2
H: -
D: AJ76
C: J109854
S: 106 S: KJ9754
H: Q96532 H: K108
D: ?95 D: ?43
C: 76 C: Q
S: 83
H: AJ74
D: K108
C: AK32
From the bidding East
must have the king of spades, so you go up with the ace. You start by
eliminating hearts from hand and also pulling trumps. First lead a club to
the king, dropping the queen. Cash the ace of hearts, throwing the two of
spades from board. Now lead a low heart and ruff on board. A club to the
ace draws the last of the opponents’ trumps. Lead another low heart and
ruff. Lead a low diamond to get back to hand with the diamond king. Now
lead your last heart and ruff it on board.
This is how the hands
look after four rounds of hearts, two rounds of trumps and one round each of
spades and diamonds:
S: Q
H: -
D: AJ7
C: J
S: 6 S: KJ9
H: Q9 H: -
D: ?9 D: ?4
C: - C: -
S: 8
H: -
D: 108
C: 32
Finally, lead the
queen of spades. East is forced to win and then has a choice of ways to
give you the contract. A diamond lead into the ace jack gives you the two
more diamond tricks you need, whoever has the queen. Any other lead allows
you to sluff a diamond from hand and ruff on board. Twelve tricks bid and
made.
The key card is
North’s queen of spades, which might appear useless being under the king,
but which allows you to put East on lead at the end. Would your plan have
made the contract?
If you have bridge
questions, or to send me your interesting hands, please contact me at:
[email protected].
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