Defending champ retains title at International Arm Wrestling Championship

Phasakorn Channgam

Amidst much grunting and flexing of biceps, the 7th Annual Pattaya International Arm Wrestling Championship took place on Saturday, May 15, at the ground floor of the Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya.

The three weight category champions (from left) Witaya Meemui, Ronachai Jitjamnong and Apichart Somprasert.

This competition is recognized as an event that complies fully with world standards and is supported by the Thai National Association of Body Building, who sent in their officials as judges for the day.

The stage was open for anyone who fancied their chances in a battle to find the strongest arms in town and many locals and expats turned up to take part.

The competition was categorized into 3 levels, lightweight or less than 75 kilograms, middleweight or 75-85 kilograms, and heavyweight, 85-95 kilograms. The champions of each level received trophies and 15,000 baht while the runners-up received 5,000 baht. The last 8 qualified of each level received 1,000 baht each.

Defending champion Witaya, left, takes on all comers in the heavyweight division.

The winners of the three weight categories were: Apichart Somprasert (lightweight), Ronachai Jitjamnong (middleweight) and last year’s winner Witaya Meemui in the heavyweight championship. The runners-up of each category were Ratanachart Kongern, Danchai Chimnoi, and Mr. Hemmer respectively.

The judges watch closely to make sure no one tries any illegal moves.

Diversion Day at Navy

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Thomas Cotton & Derek Brook

Tuesday, May 11, Green Valley – Stableford

Able were we as we ambled out to Green Valley, although a little later than normal on Tuesday since our tee-time was also later. When we arrived the course was rather quiet and after we tee-off there was nobody in front of us for the whole round.

Mashi Kaneta, left, with Tuesday’s winner Bill Knight.

The sky was dark and brooding and off in the distance we could see lightening, but our play continued without interruption and we finished in under four hours. It was, however, seasonally hot and this took a toll on some of our more delicate players. The photo of the winners shows that either Mashi has grown taller or Bill Knight has shrunk in size. It is not clear if the heat played any role in this.

1st Bill Knight 36 pts
2nd Mashi Kenata 35 pts
3rd Walter Baechli 34 pts
Near Pins: Mashi Kenata, Walter Baechli, Mick O’Connor, Joel Flor
Long Putts: Mashi Kenata, Joel Flor

Friday, May 14, Plutaluang - Stableford

What a great day with cooler temperatures and lower humidity than we have recently been exposed to. Now if only the black clouds and thunderstorms could stay away the day would be fantastic.

The 10 golfers signed up for the day were ready to go off behind another group on the South course, but the starter diverted us to the East course and we were able to get off a bit early and no rain was in sight.

The course was found in very good condition and our pace of play on the East was good. The only flaw in the day was at the turn to the South nine. With no one in sight on South 1 and no one waiting in the area, we were told we could not play the South course, “Big Boss coming.” So, where do we go? No word on that until our venerable Captain found the course manager and they finally decided to divert us to the North nine.

This was Ok until the 3rd hole where we caught up with a 6-ball and the pace of play slowed considerably as our first two groups were 3-balls. This type of thing seems to be fairly commonplace at this course and maybe it happens more on Friday afternoons than other days, so maybe we will not be booking there for Fridays in the future.

The good news was that the rain did hold off and all our groups were on the road back to Bert’s for Friday’s Happy Hour. Scorecards were gathered, tallied and it was evident that most of the players enjoyed the course and the day as half of the scores exceeded 30 points and all the par 3’s had someone close to the pin. Very good for this course which is on the upper end of the difficulty scale of the courses we play. So, with a big Thank You to our hosts and all attendees on the day.

1st Dick Warberg (16) 37pts
2nd Henry O’Brien (21) 35pts
Near Pins: Henry O’Brien (2), Andre Van Dyk, Derek Brook

Masanori’s career best is tops

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 10, Khao Kheow - Stableford

1st Evan Millar (23) 40pts
2nd Masanori Takano (10) 33pts
3rd Russell Exley (7) 32pts
4th Sid Ottaway (23) 32pts
5th Trevor Schirmer (14) 31pts

With the weather extremely hot and humid and very slow greens, due to the lack of cutting, the scores were not quite what should be expected at one of the top courses in the area.

Evan Millar chose the wrong day to record his best round since early last year, when he was playing off a 20 handicap, as no one else on the day managed to get within two of their handicap thus triggering the CSS to move out to 75 and also become non counting for any upward reviews. The net result of that was to see his handicap reduced to 20 once more.

Masanori Takano warmed up his game for later in the week, with a three over handicap round to take second place ahead of Russell Exley and Sid Ottaway, with Russell getting the nod for third with a better count back of 17 to 13.

Trevor Schirmer just scraped into the picture with an unremarkable 31 points but was happy enough to do so.

There were no 2’s in the second division but Mikael Andersson had one in the first division to sweep the pool including the roll overs.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed back Masanori Takano, Bubbles Davies, Nigel Ashurst, Brian Holmes, Shuichi Kodaka and Mark Ward.

Wednesday, May 12, Crystal Bay - Stableford

1st Masanori Takano (10) 43pts
2nd Steve Bickle (18) 38pts
3rd Keith Emerson (12) 37pts
4th Roar Berger (25) 37pts
5th Alan Pilkington (11) 37pts

After limbering up earlier in the week, both out of The Haven and The Rabbi’s Elephant, Masanori Takano spread-eagled the field with a stunning three over gross round on the way to a lifetime best and top score by a clear five shots, and although not as great a winning margin than the previous competition, it was still a terrific round to recount at the bar later in the evening.

For the first time in a while the Crystal Bay layout over the A and C course was in very good condition and whilst the greens are not near the quality of the old days, they were very playable and with the rest of the courses in good condition the scores for the day ensured that the CSS went down to 71.

Steve Bickle showed that his decision to travel to Thailand against the advice of many was not at all ill advised as he slipped into second spot with a two under score and “without even seeing a soldier or red shirt all day”.

Keith Emerson made it a happy return to Soi 13 with a third place finish, courtesy of a winning back nine of 21 to 18 to take third place and consign Roar Berger, who is still waiting to get a flight out to Norway, due to the Icelandic volcano, to fourth. Alan Pilkington slipped into fifth with a couple of really good holes.

Once again the were no 2’s in the second division but Alan Pilkington had two, on two really good holes, in the first division but still only swept the pot once.

Before the presentations Darryl Kellett was welcomed as a new member and Keith Emerson and Brian Libbey were welcomed back.

Friday, May 14, Greenwood - Stableford

1st Alan Griffiths (11) 37pts
2nd Russell Exley (7) 35pts
3rd Steve Bickle (18) 35pts
4th Darryl Kellett (15) 33pts

A thunderstorm that had been threatening for several days finally broke out as the majority of the field were almost at the end of their rounds and it was hard and long enough to get the cards seriously wet, but fortunately as the bulk of the round had been completed the scores were not too adversely affected.

After suffering a semi serious back injury during the away tour to the north during Songkran, when he was ejected from a golf cart during a “Doughnut” performed by his driver, who was trying to emulate Lewis Hamilton’s Melbourne escapade with slightly less expertise and far fewer members of the local constabulary watching, Alan Griffiths returned to the golf scene after almost a month’s absence and almost succeeded in reducing his new handicap even further to a solid 10. In the end he just missed the mark by a shot on his way to a solid one under handicap round, but it was still good enough to take the day’s top spot by a couple of strokes from Russell Exley in second spot.

Russell just edged out Steve Bickle from his second runner up placing in consecutive outings with a better inward half of 20 to 17. Darryl Kellett slid onto the podium with a three over score that he will be pleased to recount on his return to OZ in due course.

With the scores all pretty good compared to handicaps, the CSS stayed at the standard 72 for the day.

Trevor Schirmer slipped in the only 2 in the first division and at long last the second division roll overs went, when John Teague nonchalantly stroked in an easy 30 footer that he will certainly be writing home about.

Chatt has the golden touch in Hua Hin

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, May 10, Palm Hills – Stableford

Our 13th annual trip to Hua Hin for the Golden Elephant tour, as always in the second week of May, and there were 19 players in a 72-hole stableford contest spread over four days with the rest day on Wednesday.

Glyn Evans, left, presents the Golden Elephant trophy to tour winner Mike Chatt, right.

There had been various reports from contacts over the past few weeks regarding the conditions of all the courses here and with many in poor condition owing to the recent climate changes we chose to play Black Mountain twice, probably everybody’s favourite, Palm Hills, and for the first time for all of us the Banyan Tree.

There were no ladies on the tour so we all agreed to a one divisional contest each day with four placings and as always the ‘2’s in two divisions and with an added incentive of a prize for the highest stableford points on all par threes over four rounds.

The Palm Hills course was in good condition today with green fairways and there was only one partially holitized green, the ninth, but there were no complaints about that.

In his first ever trip with us here Burnie Sinclair came in with 37 points to win today’s competition, Dan Morgan beat Andy Mills on an 18/17 count back for second spot after they both finished with 35 points each and Terry Cowell was fourth on 34 points, beating Martyn Anderton on a 16/15 count back.

Andy Oz scored 11 points to take the lead in the par three’s, he also birdied the 8th and 11th holes to split the Division 2 pot with Tony Duthie who got a ‘2’ on the 15th..

Many thanks to Mike Chatt for ringing the bell at Murphys on his birthday, and many happy returns.

Tuesday, May 11, Black Mountain – Stableford

There was some construction work going on at the second hole and we learned later that there will be a new waterfall from high up on the 11th hole, crossing the course and finishing on this hole. Still a delight to play and no moans at all.

Off the blue tee’s today, two from the back at around 6,500yds. Tony Duthie finished fourth with 30 points, Andy Mills was third with 36, John McLoone was just ahead on 37, and the winner with 38 points was Terry Cowell.

Andy Mills got the only ‘2’ on the 14th and a rollover in Division 2 goes to the Banyan Tree.

After two rounds now in the par three’s comp, Terry Cowell and Tony Duthie shared the lead with 19 points each. Terry Cowell was now in the lead in the overall competition with 72 points with Andy Mills second one point behind, John McLoone in third place on 69 and Burnie fourth with 65.

Thursday, May 13, The Banyan Tree - Stableford

There have been many comments over the past three months regarding this course and also the comparison to Black Mountain, but after playing today everyone will go for the latter, however in one or two years time this place will probably be in the rating for the best 2/3 courses in the area with a fantastic layout, especially on the back nine.

There was some heavy rain here the previous day and this showed on the majority of the fairways, but that did not deter some good scores in today. Andy Mills lost out to Tony Duthie for third spot on a back nine count back of 20/17 after they both tied with 35 points, Emmett White came in second with 36, and the London cabbie Mike Chatt was the winner with 38 points.

Andy Mills birdied the 15th to win his second ‘2’ prize and Andy Crabb, also on the same hole, won a rollover in Division 2.

After three rounds now Andy had overtaken Terry for first place with 106 points, John was second with 102 and Terry third on 101 with Burnie still in fourth on 97 points. Terry Cowell led the way in the par three’s with 27 points.

Friday, May 14, Black Mountain - Stableford

Our second round here at everybody’s favourite course in Thailand and the finale to the Golden Elephant tour. We had been very lucky with the rain for this time of the year in this area but the weather was sweltering as it has been in Jomtien over the past few weeks.

An amazing nine points separated the fourth place player to the winner as Bob Green came in fourth with 32 points, Tim Lazaki was third two points ahead, in second position was Mike Chatt with 40 points, and the winner today with 41 points was Andy Oz.

There were three ‘2’s in Division 2 shared by Jimmy Johnson, Tim Lazaki and Dan Morgan and there were no winners in Division 1 so the pot was returned to them.

In the par threes competition over the four days Andy Oz finished third with 35 points, Mike Chatt came second on 36, and maintaining his lead for the majority of the week was Terry Cowell who won with 38 points.

After four rounds the winner of this years tour was Mike Chatt with 134 points, Andy Mills was second one point behind, Terry Cowell came in third on 132 and Andy Oz beat John McLoone on a 41/26 last round count back as they both tied with 128.

A great time was had by all and we are all looking forward to next May when we can do it all again.

Nigel Perry has back to back wins

PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg

Peter Blackburn

Monday, May 10, Treasure Hill – Stableford

We had a very reasonable turnout with 18 golfers ready to take on the testy Treasure Hill layout. Hearty welcomes were extended to new players Foster Davy & Craig Milton from England and also to returnees Graham Faithfull from England and Paul Jackson from Melbourne, Australia.

Nigel Perry, The Admiral & Stu Rifkin.

Departing Café Kronborg right on time at 0815 we arrived at the course after a 45 minute drive and found conditions there hot with threatening thunder, which continued most of the day but thankfully the rain stayed away. There were no major holdups and the round was completed in four hours & twenty minutes.

A Flight was well won by Les Hall, two points ahead of Ted Morris, with Graham Faithfull taking third spot. A count back was required to ascertain fourth place and Mike “Hunter” Gosden “got the chocolates” ahead of Marie Rowles.

Nigel Perry continued his good form and won B Flight ahead of Colin Swann, who beat Wayne Koch in a count back to decide second and third places. Dave Roberts finished fourth.

Our stand-in photographer Stu Rifkin was today’s recipient of the Compass Cap.

A Flight
1st Les Hall (18) 39pts
2nd Ted Morris (10) 37pts
3rd Graham Faithfull (12) 36pts
4th Mike Gosden (8) 32pts
B Flight
1st Nigel Perry (21) 34pts
2nd Colin Swann (23) 33pts
3rd Wayne Koch (22) 33pts
4th Dave Roberts (31) 32pts
Near Pins: No2 Graham Faithfull, No6 Nigel Perry, No13 Les Hall, No17 Kevin Dinan.

Thursday, May 13, Greenwood A & B – Stableford

Well, Café Kronborg continues to be a popular golf outlet during the off season as once again 18 golfers signed up for the day’s outing to Greenwood.

Leaving on time as usual the 55 minute journey enabled everyone to relax and the first group hit off at 0940. The weather was good although there was thunder and a few drops of rain towards the end and it was a bit slow with the round being completed in four hours & thirty-five minutes.

Highlight of the day was an eagle on B1 by Mike “Hunter” Gosden who skillfully guide his seven iron second shot into the hole. Also the squirrel at the drink stop on B nine caused a fair bit of amusement, The Admiral reckons it’s a mascot for the place.

My old Aussie mate Stu Rifkin went from winning the Compass Hat at the last outing to taking out the A Flight on a count back from Mike Allidi. Joseph Besoussan was back in form again and finished in third place.

That man again – Nigel Perry - continued his great run and won the B Flight by 2 points from Mike Winfield, with Patrice Bardy finishing third.

Stu Rifkin was delighted to be able to present the Compass Cap to Mick O’Connor.

A Flight
1st Stu Rifkin (16) 37pts
2nd Mike Allidi (4) 37pts
3rd Joseph Bensoussan (14) 35pts
B Flight
1st Nigel Perry (21) 35pts
2nd Mike Winfield (19) 33pts
3rd Patrice Bardy (19) 30pts

Ed walks off with the Medal

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, May 9, Green Valley - Medal

A Flight
1st Ed Wyckoff (15) Net 68
2nd Ian Grout (8) Net 71
B Flight
1st Don Lehmer (15) Net 71
2nd Colin Davis (25) Net 72
Red Flight
1st Mike Craighead (16) net 72
2nd Yui Bietry (11) Net 74
Near Pins: No2 Ian Grout, No9 Pierre Bietry, No12 Seamus Cotter, No16 Don Lehmer

Sunday’s winners: Mike Craighead and Ed Wyckoff.

Our poster boy this week, Ed Wyckoff, who hails from the state of Texas USA and is a retired Foreign Affairs diplomat for the state department, showed that given the chance to play regally his game has great potential as he recorded his first monthly Medal victory to date, but there is every reason to believe he will be there more often.

Ian ‘Giza fag Grout’ coughed and spluttered his way round, as he returned a very good Net 73 for second.

Don Lehmer felt his account was a little low so he threw in a one under for a top B Flight podium finish. The Donkey posted an even par round for second. Seems Sim has found a better supply of carrots.

Mike added another medal to his mantle piece; Mike has never looked back since his sex change operation. Yui Bietrys Net 74 was good for second.

Interestingly enough not one near pin was converted into a ‘2’.

It must be the first time that this scribe has put together a missive without the mention of an Irishman. Must have been Mangos 21st Birthday party on Saturday that put paid to that. Everybody from Lewinski’s would like to wish Mango a Happy Birthday!

Tuesday, May 11, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kevin McNtee (7) 38pts
2nd Benn Nelson (14) 37pts
B Flight
1st Lou Szigligeti (20) 35pts
2nd Jim Elphick (23) 34pts

A fair sized field enjoyed the low season opportunity to play Laem Chabang. The always well conditioned course was just the signal the infamous Co. Offaly gang needed to strike.

Leader of the gang Kevin ‘Calapus boy’ McNtee posted 38 points for the day’s best score to take the main prize and day’s honors. Benn ‘the Admiral’ Nelson grabbed second with a red card count back decision over Ireland’s Terry Mangan a shot back. A group of three were log jammed on even par rounds including Kevin’s back up, Matt ‘Dillon’ Doyle.

Lou Zig Zag was the main benefactor in B Flight, with a solid 35 points, leaving ‘Jersey’ Jim Elphick to pick up the balance a shot adrift.

No ‘2’s were recorded rollover Wednesday.

Wednesday, May12, Treasure Hill - Stableford
1st Kevin McNtee (7) 37 pts
2nd Justin Fowlis (14) 37 pts

I’m not even going to mention it this time but the clean up guys have struck again. Kevin ‘Calapus boy’ McNtee fought back after no scoring the seventh and eighth holes to post a remarkable 37 points to gain a count back victory over Liverpool’s ‘notorious diesel fitter’ Justin Fowlis, who failed to score on the second and last hole.

Kevin’s partner Matt ‘Dillon’ Doyle chipped in from 99yds for a very handy and only rollover ‘2’.

Friday, May 14, Greenwood - Stableford
A Flight
1st Seamus Cotter (12) 36pts
2nd Matt Doyle (11) 35pts
B Flight
1st Davis Colin (15) 39pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (17) 34pts

A Flight was ruled by Irishmen as Captain Cotter put together a fine even par round to take the laurels. It was Matt ‘Dillon’s’ turn to fill the rostrum a shot adrift of Seamus.

The Donkey used his length (driving) and accuracy to lead B Flight and collect man of the match as he was the only golfer to break par, posting a splendid 39 points. Considering the Magician emailed me to say he would be away for four weeks last Sunday, I was astonished to see he had come in second, five shots back from the Donkey.

Terry Mangan, Jimmy Day and Lou Zigzag 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.

Greenaway a class apart at the Valley

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column

Monday, May 10, Burapha - Stableford

Capt’ Bob was at his most cruel today as he shoved the 29 Outbackers off the blue tees on C & D. Although not an excessively long course, the rough was brutally long and on many holes the fairway is particularly narrow; as a result the scoring was not the best, with the man himself propping up Div A, with a miserable 21 points.

Capt’ Bob, flanked by Bob Lindborg’s B’day Cup winners, John Coetzee (left) and Frank Riley (right).

It was another swelteringly hot day but although the storms threatened, thankfully it remained dry, however as the day progressed it just got hotter and hotter.

Welcome to a couple of first timers with the Outback, David Johnson and his mate Willy Ulrich; and to Bhasker Nair, an Aussie boy who found us off the website. With us also were Novak and Andy, out there enjoying their golf on a repeat of their trip this time last year.

John Cunningham’s accuracy off the tee helped him to overcome the conditions to win Div A with just 33 points playing off a H’cap of six, with last Friday’s runaway winner, Jim Moreton, picking up second on 32. Div B was won by one of our first timers, Bhasker Nair, with a fine 35 points off 16; followed in by regular Outbacker, Bruce McAdam, with 34.

Regrettably, our early boys, Jim Bryan and his gang, got left out to dry again today following Laem Chabang’s tee mix up on Friday, as today Capt’ Bob forgot to tell them to play off the blues! Sorry lads, never mind you picked up a couple of ‘2’s; and we promise to get it right next week.

There were four ‘2’s coming from Art O’Connor, El Suggs, John Cunningham and Tony Garnett.

Div A (0-15)
1st John Cunningham (6) 33pts
2nd James Moreton (13) 32pts
3rd Paul Young (12) 31pts
4th Tony Garnett (11) 30pts
Div B (16+)
1st Bhasker Nair (16) 35pts
2nd Bruce McAdam (18) 34pts
3rd Sakorn Pramoolchart (24) 33pts
4th Jean Guy Gaudet (16) 31pts

Monday, May 10, Green Valley - Stableford

Today was the first alternate Monday that the Outback has scheduled for the low season, for those who like to walk and also for those who would like to give Burapha a bit of a rest. It also suits many, who are members at Green Valley. Eleven Outbackers chose to play and what a great day it was! The course was in superb condition with excellent greens and a great pace of play.

Paul Greenaway was the player of the day with a fabulous 74 gross to amass 46 stableford points; seven clear of ‘Mr Consistent’ himself, Gary Blackburne (39pts). Great round of golf Paul! And nice to see you back here Gary, don’t leave it so long, next time.

There were two ‘2’s from Paul Greenaway and Steve Plant.

Next week’s alternate course is Pleasant Valley with a tee time of 9.30 and our thanks to Joe Mooneyham, who ran the day and has set up the whole of the alternate Monday programme, thanks Joe.

1st Paul Greenaway (12) 46pts
2nd Gary Blackburne (7) 39pts
3rd Steve Plant (14) 38pts
4th Sugar Ray Handford (17) 34pts
5th George Bishop (14) 33pts

Tuesday, May 11, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

On what was to be another hot and humid day, 22 Outbackers took the trip across the 36 to this local course where there is a good deal for Seniors (55+) in addition they now have two Sports Days – Wednesday and Thursday. The course, which continues to benefit from the recent rains, was in a very acceptable condition.

We had some new ‘Tuesday faces’, Roger Yabsley, “Ireland’s own’ Billy Fitzerald and three Thai ladies, Lamun, Siripen and Moon.

Despite the heat many decided to walk the course which is flat, and most groups escaped the rain although there were rumbles of thunder all around.

It was three of the new Tuesday Outbackers who took all 3 places in Division A with Billy Fitzgerald (16) in top spot with 39 points. In second and third were Lamun Hanley (15) and Siripen Hormkum, both with 36 points but with Lamun taking second on count back. Regrettably, Siripen was later disqualified for quite inexplicably, yet deliberately, playing off the wrong handicap.

Taking top place in Division B for the first time was regular Tuesday player Terry Marney (28) with 39 points. Second place went to our ‘Aussie’ friend, Geoff Moodie (28) with 38, and Paul Smets was initially placed third on 33. Later, in the scorers’ office, it was discovered that Paul had accidentally played off 20 and not 19, and Chad was promoted to third on count back from Paul, both with 32.

There were five ‘2’s from Frank O’Neill (2), Terry Marney, Jorma Liila & David Day.

The Outback have a regular slot at 09.30 each Tuesday at Pattaya Country Club.

As a general note, we do check your handicaps. If you are genuinely not sure what it is, please let the organiser for the day know.

Div A (0-18)
1st Billy Fitzgerald (16) 39pts
2nd Lamun Hanley (15) 36pts
3rd Jack Moseley (10) 35pts
Div B (19+)
1st Terry Marney (28) 39pts
2nd Geoff Moodie (28) 38pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (21) 32pts

Wednesday, May 12, Bangpra - Stableford

The 22 Outbackers on one of their bi-annual, but welcome visits to Bangpra, got away to an early start, only to be halted after a couple of holes by the weather siren, a rare species, rarely heard on the courses here in Thailand. After about a 45 minute break, we were back out playing in cooler conditions on a course that was in excellent nick.

Bhasker Nair (16) collected his second win of the week, this time Div A, with a fine 41 points, only to receive a severe chop by the handicapper, having got away lightly on Monday. It’s rumoured he has been cut to 12! Louis Doyon (12) took advantage of his handicap, going out a point to pick up second place on 38, six clear of the wayward Capt’ in third.

Novak (28) treated himself to a brand new set of ‘Pings’ and promptly went out and christened them with the best round of his life, breaking 100 by one, to muster 37 points, to win Div B from regular Outbacker, Brian Maddox (19) second with 35.

The Sugarman, who normally brings his best game to this course, failed today; but on many occasions was heard muttering, “I’m saving myself for Friday” and Bob Lindborg’s four ball better ball Birthday Cup, where Capt’ Bob & General Jack teamed up again, going for back to back Birthday Cup wins. Me thinks the Sugarman had a wager or two out there today at Khao Kheow.

There were three ‘2’s coming from Louis Doyon, Andy Ness and Jean Guy’s that deserves a special mention as he eagled the par 4 tenth!

Div A (0-16)
1st Bhasker Nair (16) 41pts
2nd Louis Doyon (12) 38pts
3rd Bob Philp (8) 32pts
Div B (17+)
1st Novak (28) 37pts
2nd Brian Maddox (19) 35pts
3rd Wayne Crump (17) 34pts

Friday, May 14, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Another Birthday Cup today, this time Bob Lindborg’s, with 40 Outbackers (20 teams) competing in a four-ball better ball event (2 man pairs) for the coveted trophy. The chosen course was C & A from the yellow tees, which were an absolute delight to play at an excellent pace, although the greens were a little on the slow side, particularly into the grain, making it hard to get the ball to the hole.

The weather was once again extremely hot & muggy, and Capt’ Bob was pleading for a thunderstorm to arrive to clear the air. Well, one did arrive, but just as the last groups were coming in, so only the Sugarman’s group got wet.

As well as the many regular Outbackers, the field included, Joe Mooneyham, last year’s winner but this time with a different partner, and also Capt’ Bob & General Jack going for the double having won Jack’s B’day Cup only ten days ago. Welcome also to some new faces this week, Bhasker, going for his third win in as many starts, Frank Riley & John Coetzee, and Colin Goon & Sel Wegner. Paul Greenaway, with his partner, Bernie, was also looking to finish in style, what has been a great week of golf for him.

So it was the newcomers, John Coetzee & Frank Riley from Geralton, Western Australia (friends of B1 & B2) who stole the day, with a fabulous 44 points, edging out the form boy, Paul Greenaway’s team by one shot, who in turn beat the other form boy this week, Bhasker & team mate Owen, on count back.

Bob Lindborg also sponsored the fine spread of food back at the ranch as well as the near pins, which were won by: Bhasker, Colin Goon, Jim Moreton and Jack Moseley. Jack’s was put back into a draw to be won by Joe Mooneyham.

There were four ‘2’s from El Suggs, Pete Stonebridge, Steve Milne and Owen Lloyd.

1st John Coetzee & Frank Riley 44pts
2nd Paul Greenaway & Bernie Stafford 43pts
3rd Bhasker Nair & Owen Lloyd 43pts

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.

Foxall takes it all

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Monday, May 10,
Green Valley - Stableford

1st Bob Foxall 39pts
2nd Johnathan Gant 37pts
3rd Miss Gib 37pts
4th Keith Worboys 37pts

This week’s fixture at Green Valley saw some new faces again. Welcome to the Ozzie contingent of Noel, Bill, Gary, Bob and Murray.

Bob Foxall was man of the match today with a fine 39 points. Johnathan Gant, joining us from the UK, was second on 37 points, narrowly beating out Miss Gib and Keith Worboys on count back. Keith had arrived back from the US and headed straight to the golf course. Well played all

Miss Gib also took the closest to the pin prize on Hole 16 and collected a Golf Club T-shirt.

Wednesday, May 12,
Siam Plantation – Stableford
1st Paul McNally 38pts
2nd Jeff Cordeiro 35pts
3rd Noel Pittard 34pts
4th Steve Snelgrove 33pts

We endured a deluge of rain prior to teeing it up today at the Siam Plantation course. Once the rain stopped and we headed for the first tee it seemed that every fly for miles descended to the course.

Battling the flies and some tricky greens, Paul McNally was our winner today with a masterful 38 points. Jeff Cordeiro was on his usual steady form and cruised in on 35points for second. Noel Pittard from the land of the flies (OZ ) was third on 34 points and steady Steve Snelgrove took fourth with one point fewer.

Notwithstanding the fly issue, the course was great and well received as many of our participants today were seeing this course for the first time.

Friday, May 14,
Khao Kheow C & A - Stableford
1st Bob Newell 35pts
2nd Brad Sproxton 32pts
3rd Jeff Cordeiro 32pts
4th Steve Snelgrove 31pts

Driving on any golf course is important, but we cannot fail to mention how important driving to the golf course is. We had negotiated the bikes, trikes, cars, lories and traffic mayhem, but were nearly taken out by an overloaded baht bus a mere kilometer from or destination. ABS brakes really work!

Shaking off the effects of a near tragedy, Bob “ABS” Newell drove off with today’s number one spot on 35 points. Brad Sproxton had 20 points on the back to clip Jeff Corderio with 32 points. Steve Snelgrove battled his inner putting demons and finished fourth on 31.

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.

Aussies claim bragging rights over ROW

Golf from the Travellers Rest

The victorious Australian team with their winners’ trophy.

Barry Hooper

Monday, May 10, The Emerald - Stableford

Div. 1
1st Amphan North (13) 35pts
2nd John Goudge (5) 33pts
3rd Glynn Furfie (8) 32pts
Div. 2
1st Alun Webber (19) 34pts
2nd Kham Pong (18) 33pts
3rd Seamus Farrell (36) 32pts

Emerald was the venue on Monday and we had a very good attendance so two full divisions.

The course played hard as the scores returned depict: Division 2 had the Welsh wizard Alun Webber heading the field with thirty-four and on his tail in second spot and only one back was Kham Pong, followed in by Seamus Farrell in third with his thirty-two.

Division 1 saw a win for Amphan North with thirty-five points, which resulted in a handicap cut of two shots for her down to 10.5. Second place went to John Goudge with his thirty-three and in third was Glynn Furfie at thirty-two, beating Mod Chaviraksa on count back.

Two ‘2’s came from John Goudge and Mod Chaviraksa.

Tuesday, May 11, Wangjuntr Highland - Stableford
Winners
Australia 436pts
Runners up
Rest of the World 394pts
Div. 1
1st Frank Seaton (12) 38pts
2nd John Goudge (6) 37pts
3rd Peter Karhu (13) 36pts
4th Daryl Ottoway (8) 33pts
Div. 2
1st Ken MacKenzie (17) 38pts
2nd Geoff Sanders (15) 36pts
3rd Derek Thorogood (21) 32pts
4th Peter Shaw (26) 32pts

The TRGG inaugural event of Australia v Rest of the World tournament took place on May 11 at a course that maybe a few have not heard of - Wangjuntr Highland.

The vanquished Rest of the World team.

The society had quietly made a couple of visits recently to try out the course and facilities and all were very impressed with what they found. An excellent course with first class facilities and many views on a golf course bar none.

So it was decided that the first of many small tournament type events should take place there and the management at the course went out of their way to make sure that everything ran smoothly and a very successful event was the result.

Thirty-three players were involved and it has to be said that a couple of the Australians were also to be found in the Rest of the World team. The tournament was also an individual event run on a singles stableford format and consisted of two divisions.

Two sponsored near pin prizes by Mike Ensor and Billy Allan were also on offer and won by Fergus Brennan and Derek Thorogood. Also sponsored was a nearest the pin in two shots by Derek Thorogood but this was eventually awarded by way of a free draw from the scorecards as the results sheet at the hole disappeared.

Five ‘2’s were recorded by Jon Lay, Ken Mackenzie, Frank Seaton, Peter Shaw and Peter Karhu.

The outcome of the main team tournament was a win for Australia with 436 points against 394 from the Rest of the World. A large Trophy cup (sponsored by Daryl Ottaway and the Travellers Rest) was awarded to the team along with memorial individual named medals (sponsored by the Travellers Rest) to all the players on the winning team.

A full presentation event along with a buffet was held on the evening of Friday May 14 at the Travellers Rest Hotel and was well attended by the majority of players and their guests.

Thursday, May 13, Phoenix - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Murray Callaway (10) 34pts
2nd Mike Shackleton (11) 32pts
3rd Mod Chaviraksa (12) 32pts
Div. 2
1st William Smith (18) 40pts
2nd Stephen Deakin (16) 33pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (16) 32pts

Thursday was a usual day out to Phoenix, this week playing the Mountain and Lakes course. We had a very good attendance so two full divisions.

Division 2 found William Smith at the top with a great forty pointer, a full seven up on second placed Stephen Deakin while Roger Wilkinson was third with thirty-two.

Division 1 had Murray Callaway (a new name to me) heading the list with thirty-four points. Mike Shackleton found himself two back on him at thirty-two after winning a four-way count back over Mod Chaviraksa, Amphan North, and Daryl Ottoway.

Only the one ‘2’ on the day came from Ken MacKenzie.

Saturday, May 15, Eastern Star - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Billy Allan (14) 35pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (10) 32pts
3rd Murray Callaway (10) 29pts
4th Bill Bell (12) 27pts
Div. 2
1st Roger Wilkinson (16) 35pts
2nd Gary Honan (25) 34pts
3rd Derek Thorogood (21) 34pts
4th Alun Webber (19) 34pts

Saturday was a weekend visit to Eastern Star, once again with good support and so two divisions.

This actually proved to be a day of “firsts”. Billy Allan took his “first win” with the TRGG to capture Division 1 honours with thirty-five points. Congratulations Billy. In second was Fergus Brennan with thirty-two and Murray Callaway came third with twenty nine.

In Division 2 it was a “first place” for Roger Wilkinson with thirty-five points. He always seemed to be there or there abouts but never get the win. Well that has been corrected. I have been advised that he recently made the investment in a new driver so maybe that had something to do with it. Second spot on the podium went to Gary Honan with his thirty-four and after losing on the count back, Derek Thorogood was third, also with a thirty-four.

No ‘2’s on the day so the traditional bell ring at the presentation.

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

PSC Fishing Report

Mike Gerrard

Ahoy you scurvy dogs!

Saturday, May 15 proved to be a pleasant day out with quite a good haul of fish. With a full complement of 8 passengers, the weather was set fair and the water relatively calm and smooth with a nice breeze to make it a very enjoyable day out. So at around 7.30 a.m. we set sail for the unknown.

Sadly the larger species of fish managed to avoid our baits and lures except for two instances where they decided to eat the smaller baits on the smaller rods and hence break free after a short struggle.

However there was an abundant catch of pla dang, snapper and a couple of grouper (they are so delicious to eat). One other surprising catch this trip was a few small mackerel - a new species for the first time. Let’s hope that they do not get obliterated before they multiply by the small nets used by the local fishing industry.

At about 4.45 p.m. most of the passengers agreed that we were too tired to carry on, so we set sail for home. Back at base camp a few of us sat and relaxed with a couple of beers to wash the salt air from out of our mouths (and tell the tale of the lost fish).

Due to many other items in the calendar for June we will not be arranging a trip until the first Saturday of July (3rd)

Anyone wishing to sign up for this trip can do by going to the PSC clubhouse and signing a registration form and paying their money to the office staff, who will in turn give you a receipt. Or you can contact me personally (Mike Gerrard on 087 091 7565).

I would like to advise all readers that do not expect to go on these trips with a view to catching big game fish like marlin and sailfish, they ain’t in these waters.

What we do guarantee is a really nice day out on the water on a very good boat with full bathroom facilities, a small galley and upper relaxation deck. The other thing we give you is a proper days fishing. Our skipper is very good at knowing where the fish are and even the most inexperienced fisherman will catch something to take home to their loved ones. All in all it is a great day out.

Keep your lure loose!

Takano & Sumner keep field at bay

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society based at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

For the first time in almost twelve months the Pattaya Golf Society visited Crystal Bay to play a stableford competition. The group were met with a warm welcome and an immediate increase in the agreed fee, which the manager later acknowledged was a mistake, without refund of course, and the competition got underway under heavily brooding skies and extremely uncomfortable and humid conditions.

The B and A nines were in better condition than most had hoped and the greens were running at a fast pace. Again the course was relatively empty. Electric storms skirted the course for much of the round and good scores were at a premium.

Having rediscovered his form recently, Wichai Tananusorn produced a steady round of 35 points to take third place whilst Masanori Takano emphasised his current excellent form with 39 points to share the win with an almost fully acclimatized Peter Sumner, who also produced the day’s best gross of 78.

The two birdie ‘2’s were achieved by Masa on A8 and Wichai on B4 and a reluctance of the also-rans to attend the presentation meant that the Booby Bevy was held over until the candidates’ arrival next time.

It was good to get back to Crystal Bay and the course is generally a delightful test for golfers of all levels.

Ramsay canters home

The Pattaya Golf Society left stormy Pattaya on Thursday, May 13 for the relative peace of Greenwood to play a stableford competition over the B and A nines. With the exception of a PSC group the course was empty at the start and good progress was made through the B nine where the greens were a beautiful pace.

As the lead group, representing a quarter of a millennium of raw and finely honed athleticism, took to the tenth tee they found the marshalls had inserted a Thai five-ball which put the brakes on the charge by Pat Murphy, Len Jones, and Jim McNeill. However, the three hour back nine finished before the impending storm arrived and found Pat and Jim sharing second place on 33 points, a few behind the efforts of Ronnie Ramsay which brought the only sub-par round of the day, 37 points.

The green fee vouchers donated by Bob St Aubin were won by Ronnie Ramsay for his best total on the par threes and there were no birdie ‘2’s.

The Booby Bevy was enjoyed by the golfers at the presentation to celebrate exactly five years since the PGS had reorganised under Mr Len and Greenwood had been an ideal course at which to celebrate.

Masa’s there again

It was the turn of Khao Kheow to host the Pattaya Golf Society’s weekend stableford competition on Saturday, May 15, and the B and C nines were at the disposal of the Soi Buakhao based group, but in truth the B nine was not yet ready for play after a while under repair and maintenance, as there was much water damage in evidence. The C nine was in excellent condition however.

Beginning on B, the group found progress unhindered on the empty track. The course was playing at its longest off the yellow tees (6,600 yards) and the humidity and soft conditions guaranteed low scores. But it’s a man’s game and the gauntlet was down. Who would pick it up?

In third place was Peter Sumner with 31 points and his round should have been much better as it contained forty-two putts! The group’s player-of-the-week, Masanori Takano took advantage of Tony Thorne’s current putting weakness also to share the win with him on 33 points.

There were no birdie ‘2’s again and the Booby Bevy went to newbie Don Pittendreigh for his low scoring debut round.

Things were obviously back to normal at Khao Kheow after a couple of recent sub-par visits.

Trophy winners to be determined this week

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

First place team USMC lost three points to Indiana and second place team Bavaria lost three to Brother D which will result in a real showdown on 21 May. Brother D jumped into second place after Bavaria’s loss and will play the USMC team this coming week.

Dang Downs rolled a 204 game for Indiana.

Green Tree won four points from Sabai Sabai Friday and they moved up to fourth place. They will play Bavaria this week for a possible trophy.

Canada won four points from Jack Tar and they are still in the trophy race. They will play Café Ole who dropped from fourth to sixth place after losing three points to VFW Post 9876. Café Ole still has a chance of winning fourth place.

Tue Pettae turned in the best bowling of the day with a 574 series leading Canada to a four point win. Graham bowled a 524 series for VFW and Pao Orawan had a 512 for Café Ole. Dang Downs had the only 200 game and she ended with a 529 series for Indiana.

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

This hand was played by Andrew Robson in the 4th European Open Championships.  It is a perfect example of whether to choose a technical or a psychological play to make a contract.  South dealt and all were vulnerable.  This was the bidding: 

South       West        North       East

1C             1H           Dbl           P

1N             P               3N            All pass 

Imagine you are sitting South.  West led the six of hearts and you see dummy and your hand as below.  You may wonder about South opening 1C instead of 1D - Robson was playing an unusual bidding system.  North’s double is negative, showing the unbid suits.  You have a good stopper in hearts so you bid 1N and your partner raises to 3N.

These are the North and South hands: 

                      S: KQ75

                      H: K73

                      D: KQJ7

                      C: 32 

?                                              ? 

                      S: A10             

                      H: QJ10

                      D: A965

                      C: 9876 

From the bidding, West surely has the ace of hearts so you are bound to win the first trick.  You have four diamond tricks and three top spade tricks to go with it.  But that still leaves you one trick short.  Furthermore, you are wide open in clubs - a club switch will find you losing four clubs (at least) to go with the ace of hearts and you will be down.

So, how do you make the ninth trick?

There are three possible routes there.  You could play another heart, losing to the ace and hoping to make a second heart trick next.  However, your opponents are experts so will switch to clubs immediately and get you down (dummy’s strong suits will put them off playing spades or diamonds).

The second possible route is the technical one.  Win the king of hearts on board and lead a low spade to the ten, hoping the jack of spades is with East.  After all, this rates to be better than a 50% chance because West must have five or more hearts and therefore has fewer cards outside the heart suit.

Do you see the third possible route?

This is the psychological play in which you attempt to fool your opponents.  Win the king of hearts and immediately lead a low club towards your hand.  With luck your opponents will think you are trying to set up clubs and will continue hearts.

So which would you choose?  Andrew Robson tried the technical approach and went down when West showed up with the spade jack (see full deal below).  I don’t really know what I would have done at the table, but I hope I would have led a club, because there is a special pleasure in fooling the opposition! 

                          S: KQ75

                          H: K73

                          D: KQJ7

                          C: 32 

S: J932                                  S: 864

H: A9864                              H: 52

D: 2                                        D: 10843

C: AQ5                                  C: KJ104 

                          S: A10        

                          H: QJ10

                          D: A965

                          C: 9876 

If you have bridge questions, or to send me your interesting hands, please contact me at: [email protected].