Cyclists all set for scenic Bhumibol Dam challenge

Bhumibol Dam in Tak province will host the annual Invitation International Mountain Bike Championship this coming weekend, August 28-29.

One of the highlights of the year for cycling enthusiasts in Thailand is the annual Bhumibol Dam mountain biking weekend.

Each year, mountain bikers gather at one of Thailand’s most scenic dams for a series of mountain bike races and other fun activities. For more than five years, this Thailand mountain biking event has attracted both locals and overseas visitors to test their biking skills and enjoy a healthy pastime.

Backing the event are the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Sports Authority of Thailand. Created to promote an interest in outdoor sports and also encourage ecotourism at both national and international levels, these Thailand mountain biking races underscore the beauty of Tak province, particularly the attractive scenery that surrounds one of the country’s largest dams.

During the event, mountain bikers and their families gather at the starting line on the crest of the spectacular Bhumibol Dam for two days of races. This very scenic location provides a variety of race routes that will both challenge semi-pro mountain bike racers and please recreational riders.

It is up to the participants as to how far they wish to push their bikes and bodies. If they want the thrill of dropping down steep slopes through jungle terrain, or the steady pace of riding along a trail over rolling hills that border the reservoir, the organizers have a choice of categories to deliver the right experience. In fact, there are six categories to choose from: Long distance 60km; family 16km; tour biking 10km; cyclo-cross on the dam’s crest, 5km; international race 39km; and amateur 24km.

Just to ensure all the hard physical activity is balanced with lots of fun, the organizers encourage visitors and participants to display their two wheelers in an ancient bike contest. The vintage line-up is impressive with some participants showing off bikes that would do justice to a museum.

To round off the fun there are booths selling bike equipment at discount prices. All this is described as a heavenly experience for biking enthusiasts, who always discover they need to make just one more purchase to round off the beauty or technical excellence of their prized bikes. There will also be folk music performed by Bhumibol Dam youth club and youth activities for environmental protection and global warming concerns.

Bhumibol Dam is located in Tak province, approx 450km northwest of bangkok. The race site, at the crest of the dam, is 60km north of Tak provincial town, where most of the hotel accommodation is located.

For more information contact TAT Call Center: 1672, TAT Tak, Phone: 665 551 4341 or Email: [email protected]

Casey opens his account at Eastern Star

Jomtien golf with the IPGC

Monday, August 16, Crystal Bay – Stableford

The B and A courses were selected today for the two divisions in the men’s competition as the ladies were taking a two week respite with some of their partners away, a good excuse for fun on their own. The course was in good condition with fast greens and it was thumbs up all round as they returned to the clubhouse.

The was an equal cut today in the divisions, 6-18 in division 1 and 19+ for division 2. Harry Vincenzi is back in form and he took out division 1 with 39 points ahead of Chris Voller in second on 34 and Jean Morel in third with 32.

In the winnings again was Willy van Heetvelde who took the top podium position in division 2 with 33 points. ‘Count-back’ Burnie pushed Gordon Everingham into third place with a back nine score of 16/13 after they both came in with 30 points each.

There were two ‘2’s on the 4th on the B course and two on the 8th on the A nine and with no rollovers this was shared out between Jean Morel, Harry Vincenzi and Chris Voller (2). In division 2, there were no winners at Green Valley nor today, so all to play for at Emerald on Wednesday.

There was a warm welcome back to Jack Hinchey after his recent illness and Chris Olsson as well.

Wednesday, August 18, The Emerald - Stableford

It seemed like an eternity since we had last visited here but with playing Eastern Star every Friday and our IPGC medal on the first Wednesday every month, it only leaves seven or eight courses to choose from for the remainder of the month. With the price structures changing every week at all of the courses here, and with the economy as it is, it is difficult to pre book three months in advance like we used to.

There was nobody here upon arrival and all six groups tee’d off well before their allocated time. There were no buggies allowed on the fairways today so our local ruling came into force, it was “pick, clean and place”.

In his last game but one before his return trip to Nigeria for four weeks, and with his first win for a long time, Arthur Hancock and his 39 points took the division 1 title ahead of Brian Blackford in second, two points behind, and Mikael Andersson was in third with 34 points.

A weekend in Phuket beckons for Tom Novak before his return to Kazakhstan and with 33 points on his last game but one he won division 2, beating Joe Kubon on a 17/15 back nine count-back, and, can you believe this, Willy van Heetvelde was still in the prizes with 30 points in third place.

Arthur Hancock birdied the 5th for the only ‘2’ in division 1 while there were three rollovers in division 2 to Century Chonburi.

Friday, August 20, Eastern Star – Stableford

It was a perfect morning as we left Siam Cats with hope that the end of the rainy season was nigh upon us. The first group tee’d off bang on time but as we reached the second fairway the heavens opened so we played the hole out and waited under cover on the third tee for 30 minutes until the clouds dispersed and the rain stopped. The second group out were waiting in the tea hut at the back of the first green and the others had gone back into the clubhouse for refreshment and after another 10 minutes four had left and gone home and the other group now started rain free one hour behind.

After a 5 week holiday in Canada, and in her first game back with us, a miserable face approached the clubhouse after her round, but this soon disappeared after finding out she had won the ladies division with 27 points. Well done Miss Nut!

There was only one division now in the men’s with the departure of four players due to the rain and Lee Casey won his first ever prize with us with 39 points. Ya Riley beat Mikael Andersson for second spot on a 16/14 back nine count-back after they both scored 31 points. Back in the UK this must be music to the ears of happy Harry.

A damp week for golf

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Friday, August 20, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Kail Muir (12) 39pts
2nd Les Hall (18) 38pts
3rd James Savage (18) 35pts

Twelve players showed up at Green Valley to take on a damp course off the white tees with the “pick, clean & place” rule being implemented by the organizers.

Kail Muir came to terms best with the conditions to post a fine 39 points for first place, followed in by Les Hall in second on 38 and James Savage third on 35.

Wednesday, August 18, Greenwood - Medal
1st John Murdoch (12) net 72
2nd Paul Thavant (10) net 78

Just nine players out for today’s round at Greenwood on yet another rain affected layout. The wet weather rules were employed once more and John Murdoch bested the field to return a net 72 for top spot. Coming in a distant second was Paul Thavant with a net 78 off his 10 Handicap.

Note: The Caddy Shack is situated in Soi 8 Threppasit, follow the soi to the well appointed Old English style Bar/Restaurant/Hotel. We play golf twice a week, Wed/Fri, until the punters return when Monday’s will also be added to the schedule. We can also arrange golf outside these days. Check out the notice board for future venues and entry lists or email [email protected]

Bangpra proves treacherous in the wet

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s top four, Walter Bachli, Derek Brook, Henry Wong and Kenny Chung, with one of Bert’s helpers.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, August 16, Bangpra – Stableford

We had not been to Bangpra for a few weeks so it was with interest we journeyed down to this most mature course to test ourselves. These days it does not take too long, so it was on time we got to the tee for our start time, and off we went.

The course was wet, that was obvious as soon as we were told that there were to be no carts on the fairways, only the paths. Of course as the round went on the carts were used in the rough a bit. The fairways were wet so we got little run and the course seemed really long, especially as the weather was overcast and all seemed dull. Hit a drive, pick the ball up, clean it and put it back down.

Mind the greens, as they are wont to be, were at their trickiest. With the rough wet around the greens it was really difficult to chip with decent weight. You either hit the ball too hard or fluffed the shot. The greens were still treacherous, so all in all we were to have a tricky day. But it was still a pleasure to play.

Back at Bert’s, eating his ‘Golfers Special’ of fish and chips, we were to see the scores were not impressive, but as is usual when things are difficult, the A Flight played better than the B Flight. So the scores on the doors: A Flight winner was Walter Bachli with 34 points on count-back over the scribe, Derek Brook, in second. In third was Joel Flor with 33 points. It was nice to see Joel back in the winners’ circle after his shoulder operation.

In the B Flight the scores were not as good, but still good enough to win in first place was Henry Wong with 32 points ahead of Kenny Chung with 31 points in second, and in third was Bernie Cairns on 29 points. Bernie is also back after not playing for 2 years as he had a foot operation. Seems we are all getting older. T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: Dick Warberg, Derek Brook, Frank Pilkington, Don Carmody.

Sharpshooter Robbie takes 4 at monthly medal

PSC August Monthly Medal Golf Tournament

The 99th Pattaya Sports Club monthly tournament was held at Pleasant Valley Golf Course on Friday, August 20. It was not the best of days weather wise, as we were rained on, to be expected during rainy season. However there were some very good scores, led by Robbie Bennett who managed to win the near pin on all 4 chances in the C Flight. Well done, Robbie.

Flight winners at the August PSC Monthly Medal.

Aside from the weather it was another good turnout with 84 golfers giving their best under trying conditions. There was good golf played, as the scores indicated. Congrats to all participants, your support is appreciated.

A familiar face was the winner of the A Flight, well done Mashi. Our golf chairman won for the second month in a row taking the B Flight, so congrats also go to Joe. Robbie, after winning all 4 near pins, easily won the C flight, and taking the ladies flight was Jum Karacit. We only had 5 ladies playing, where are the rest of you? You are always welcome to join us.

The presentation was held at Diana Garden Resort, a superb facility and the usual good service was provided by a friendly and gracious staff. We enjoyed a tasty buffet and made good use of happy hour prices for all beverages. Thanks again to Diana Garden Resort, which, if have not visited, you should. They have a great driving range with new mats and quality balls.

Welcome to the ladies.

A reminder to all, our next tournament will be held at St. Andrews 2000. As it is the 100th monthly, the format will be a 4-person scramble, with a shotgun start at 12:00. The presentation will be at the course in the Albatross Room. Get your teams together and sign up early as the field is filling fast.

To all golfers, a special gift will be given to signify our 100th monthly tournament.

A Flight
1st Mashi Kaneta (10) net 68
2nd Tom Byrne (11) net 70
3rd Colin Greig (12) net 70
B Flight
1st Joe Mooneyham (15) 38pts
2nd Bill Johnson (17) 37pts
3rd William Macey (16) 36pts
C Flight
1st Robbie Bennett (20) 45pts
2nd Ken Bernek (21) 39pts
3rd Duncan McGhee (22) 37pts
Ladies
1st Yui Bietry
Long Drive: A Flight: Bengt Borg. B Flight: Bill Johnson. C Flight: Ronnie Raffe. Ladies: Jum Karagit
2’s: Bill Johnson, William Macey, Yui Bietry, Gerry Cooney, Mon Thongkron, Jeff Wiley, Martin Todd

Owens turns up the heat at Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

It was hot on the course this 18th of August at the Pattaya Country Club, better known as “Rough Greens City”, and one of the scores showed just how hot it can be. While the sun beat down on the dedicated players, some relief in the form of cool breezes showed up for the last four holes.

Wednesday winner Paul Owens, left, with runner up Richard Hall.

A couple of the older players were just not on form due to the heat, but not so Paul Owens who tore up the course, coming in first with 44 points.

Back at Caddy Shack II the cards were tallied and it was found that the only player close to Paul was Richard Hall, coming in with a decent 36 for second spot.

A unique situation occurred with four “Pauls” playing today; Paul Owens, Paul Kinrod, Paul Kraft and Paul Donahue. The latter two Pauls would just as soon not discuss their scores.

Ample beverages were available along with both spicy and regular hot dogs.

Bernek is a Polish hit

PSC golf from The Cafe Kronborg

The Drut

Monday, August 16, Century Chonburi - Stableford

Eighteen golfers gathered at the Kronborg for today’s outing to Century Chonburi, where we arrived 50 minutes later to a virtually empty car park.

The first group who teed off at 0935 hours in good weather conditions, sought refuge in the 13th tee drink hut for a few minutes due to a bit of precipitation, but still finished the round in 4 hours and 25 minutes.

The layout is good here however the fairways and tees haven’t seen the business end of a mower for some time. The greens which were very slow, despite being cut, provided some of the field with as much pleasure as sitting through the complete Aussie soap series Home and Away. Others came to grips with the putting surfaces much better.

Despite the less than salubrious change rooms and restaurant, the 500 baht green fee, caddy and shared cart is very good value and more than compensates for the lack of facilities.

Today we welcomed Brian Nogeur from England, Andrea Denti from Milano Italy and Per Anders Karlson from Norway.

Thanks go again to Martin Todd for his assistance checking the cards.

In the A flight Per Anders Karlson turned in 39 points to pip Mike Gosden on 38 for first place, followed by ‘Mr Consistency’ Ted Morris on 34 in third and Mike Winfield with 33 in fourth.

Aussie lady Marnie Kregor showed the boys a clean pair of heels to post 32 points in the B flight for a popular win. Second place with 31 points was Andrea Denti who beat Bent Moeller on a count-back, and John Haddon with 30 points finished in fourth spot.

Doug Maiko, who recently had a lesson, collected the much coveted Compass Cap for the first time and was heard to comment that his game has been floundering like Sly Stallone in a romantic comedy.

A Flight
1st Per Anders Karlson (18) 39pts
2nd Mike Gosden (12) 38pts
3rd Ted Morris (12) 34pts
4th Mike Winfield (19) 33pts
B Flight
1st Marnie Kregor (37) 32pts
2nd Andrea Denti (22) 31pts
3rd Bent Moeller (28) 31pts
4th John Haddon (22) 30pts
Thursday, August 19, Phoenix - Monthly Mug/Medal

Seventeen golfers assembled at the Kronborg for today’s epic. When asked if we would be rained upon today at golf the Admiral replied there was more chance of a politician keeping a promise.

Checking in 20 minutes after departure from Pattaya we were advised that the Mountain and Ocean nines were our challenge for the day. The first group teed off under cloudy skies at 0905 hours and completed the journey in 4 hours and 20 minutes.

The course was in good condition and the greens played at an even pace and we had a clear run today which was much appreciated.

On the third tee Per Olav Baarli suffered a wardrobe malfunction to his shorts, however assistance from the female caddies was not forthcoming and he breezed around the course.

The course did give a bit of ground and Mike Gosden returned a net 69 to take first place. In second spot was Walter Baechli with a 70, followed by Owen Walkley with 73 and in fourth place was Dave Neal on 75.

The monthly mug meanwhile was won by Ken Bernek with a great net 68.

I would like to take this opportunity once again to thank Martin Todd for assistance with the cards as the scribe was as busy as a one armed man on the spot light at a Pink Floyd concert. Martin was as happy as a termite on Long John Silver’s leg to return a gross score of 42/40 for 82, as his previous stroke round was a world war two score - out in 39 and back in 45.

Today we welcomed Lars Collin from Norway, Bernie Cairns, Dave Neal and Ron Folks from England and Ronnie Ratte from South Korea.

Monthly Mug
1st Ken Bernek (21) net 68
Flight Winners
1st Mike Gosden (12) 69
2nd Walter Baechli (18) 70
3rd Owen Walkley (16) 73
4th Dave Neal (17) 75

Doug Maiko who backed up his Monday effort to secure the coveted Compass Cap again, said his game reminded him of the words by John M. Neale, 1818- 1899, adapted from the Greek of Stephen the Sabaite 725- 815 - “Art thou weary, art thou languid, art thou sore distressed?”

I would take this opportunity to thank Bjarne and the Kronborg Cafe for their continued support of this event which is much appreciated.

Pierre conjurers up an ‘Ace’

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday 15th August Green Valley
A Flight
1st Jimmy Day (14) 34pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 34pts
B Flight
1st Don Lehmer (17) 39pts
2nd Paul Taylor (17) 36pts
Near Pins: No4 Stefan Hoge, No9 Seamus Cotter, No12 Jez Lees, No16 Bill Broschart.

Lewiinski’s customary Sunday knock at Green Valley found the course to be in its usual excellent condition. The Irish duo of Jimmy ‘The ladies man’ Day and Seamus ‘the captain’ Cotter continued their dominance of the senior flight, but first a word about Don Lehmer and his best of the day 39 points for man of the match and A Flight honours. Paul Taylor was three points adrift in second place. The Don was the only competitor to better par. “Were the tees back?”

Pierre ‘The Magician’ Bietry.

As everybody knows, Jimmy and the good captain Seamus are the best of friends, but when it comes to playing golf no quarter is asked and none given. They have had many a close game but none more so than today, as it took a count-back to separate them. Jimmy, the Co. Wicklow man, just edged Seamus, the Co. Cork man, 18/15 on the inward nine.

It was only a month or so ago Jimmy was begging for a mention in the Mail, now we can’t keep him out. Makes one think what advice he got from his recent visit to Ireland to see his mates, known as the infamous Co. Offaly gang.

Please spare a thought for the Vice Captain Pierre ‘The Magician’ Bietry who had to retire after the very first hole due to severe backache and loss of sleep the night before.

Tuesday, August 17, St. Andrews – Stableford
1st Pierre Bietry (15) 44pts
2nd Jimmy Day (14) 40pts

What a difference a massage makes! After retiring from Sunday’s game (see the above article) complaining off serious back pain, Yui’s massage worked wonder’s and Pierre decided to return to action on what is regarded as one of, if not the toughest tracks on the Eastern seaboard.

Pierre fashioned a magical 44 points, this related to a lifetime best 79 off the stick, and included a remarkable first ever ‘hole in one’ on the long par-3 seventeenth.

For his day’s fine efforts, Pierre walked away with a new set of clubs complete with a new golf bag; a new air-condition unit, which I would assume might come in handy to cool his irons down or perhaps if Yui ever decides to open a massage parlor?

Jimmy ‘The ladies man’ thought he had done enough to have won, well he had but he just did it on the wrong day, sorry Jimmy.

The Irish duo of Seamus Cotter and John Feehan would have split the treble ‘2’s rollover pot, but Pierre’s Ace scooped the lot. A case of now you see it now you don’t, magic “just like that!”

Wednesday, August 18, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Colin Davis (15) 32pts
2nd Geoff Kubas (21) 32pts

Ok gang, here’s your chance (Pierre took the day of to let his irons cool down) so it was left to the ‘Donkey’ to lead the herd through the marauding monkeys of Bangpra, and the downpour that plagued the day’s play.

Not all of the competitors made it to the end, some calling it a day half way into the round, thus giving the ‘Donkey’ an unexpected win gained over Geoff ‘Elvis’ Kubas, who was himself a little out of tune, via a count-back,

Nick Unsworth slotted home the only ‘2’ of the day.

Note: Lewinski’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.

Iizumi & Tananusorn: All square

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar, Soi Buakhao

The lure of the quality course at St. Andrews was too much for the Pattaya Golf Society to ignore and so the group visited there for a stableford competition on Tuesday, August 17. The course was splendidly presented with good consistent greens with more than a modicum of pace, such a relief after the toils at Eastern Star three days previously.

Little wind and high humidity made the course play long and the single flight strove to a man to post good scores. Tim Lazecki stroked 32 points out of the course he loves for third place whilst Masashi Iizumi and Wichai Tananusorn went head-to-head again as they had previously at Rayong C.C., but this time there was no daylight between them as they shared the win on 37 points each.

Many attempted but no-one managed to achieve a birdie ‘2’ and John Mason received the Booby Bevy for a round which saw him post a front nine of 20 points only for the wheels to come off, finishing with a mere eleven on the back nine. Or was it the hand of the golfing gods because higher handicappers are not even supposed to play the course, according to the club local rules. Why not, it’s an absolute treat to play at any level and wonderful value currently.

Three out of four for Masashi

The Pattaya Golf Society travelled the short journey from Soi Buakhao to Ban Amphoe on Thursday, August 19, to play a stableford competition on the popular Phoenix course. Usually a forgiving track, this time dressed greens on the Mountain nine were slow whilst those on the Ocean nine were in fine condition and, as a result, some of the low handicappers in the large field struggled to post good scores. However, the full field average for the day was a healthy 33+ points.

Lady golfer Nit Watcharaphin joined the illustrious trio of Paul Taylor, Paul McNally and Erik Anttonen with scores of 35 points for a share of fourth place, a couple behind Alan Duckett in third with 37. Big hitting Jon Lay made second place his own with 38 points but with two double-bogeys it was not quite enough as Masashi Iizumi posted his third winning score out of four events with an excellent 39 point total. His scores this trip have been his best collection on his many visits from Japan, where he is restricted to driving range golf. Practice certainly makes perfect in his case.

Senior members in the group were delighted to have the company of Ken Graham in competition after an absence of a few years and his round also indicated that the promise he showed before was still there.

There were no birdie ‘2’s except for Keith Howlett’s effort on the Ocean fifth, but his was a qualifying round and he had to make do with the Booby Bevy for his skill.

The whole day was splendidly marshalled by John Mason in the absence of the boss and the group had thoroughly enjoyed the day out at Phoenix.

Masters’ lesson at Emerald

When the Pattaya Golf Society visited Emerald on Saturday, August 21, they found a course which had been well prepared in the face of some stern weather. Fairways were soft and had little “run” and the greens were slowish but consistent. The sky remained overcast all day but the golf held some exceptional quality. Five players broke par for the day and the full field average was 34 points.

In third place were the trio of Erik Anttonen, Tony Thorne and Len Jones, all with 38 points. Ahead in second was Don Nellis, again playing some fine accurate golf with his forty-plus year old persimmon woods, and his 39 points represented his best for a long while. The winner was Peter Masters, his rhythmic swing so often promising fine things on the course but so often plagued with the “unmentionables”! His golf on this day was spot on with a level par back nine adding twenty-five stableford points to a one over front nine. His total of 42 points was also his best for many a long month.

Peter shared the ‘2’s pot with an excellent effort on hole five but Jesper Hansen set a PGS record with three birdie ‘2’s in one round, namely on the fifth, thirteenth and fifteenth.

The Booby Bevy went to Bob St Aubin for being the only golfer with a handicap under 25 who failed to reach thirty points on the forgiving course.

This day at Emerald will be remembered for Jesper’s fine triple crown and the golfing lesson handed down by Peter Masters.

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

This board posed a bidding challenge for EW.  Both sides were vulnerable and West dealt.  Imagine you are East.  The bidding started as shown.  So, what do you bid now? 

                          S: Q107

                          H: QJ4

                          D: 532

                          C: 10832  

S: 82                                    S: AKJ95

H: A10862                         H: 75

D: KJ1097                          D: AQ84

C: 6                                      C: AJ

                          S: 643

                          H: K93

                          D: 6

                          C: KQ9754                

West    North     East        South

P           P              1S           3C

3D        P              ?               

Your partner is a passed hand, but is willing to mention a new suit vulnerable at the three level, so must have something good.  With your diamond holding, there surely should be no diamond losers.  You have 19 high card points, excellent spades and the ace of clubs.  Your partner must have some values outside diamonds to justify bidding at all, since he certainly does not have more than one of the top three diamonds.  So what do you bid now?

What did you decide?  There were all sorts of contracts at the table.  With all the points in your hand, you cannot stop short of game, but which game?  With your club stopper, three no trumps is a possibility (hoping your partner’s points are in hearts to provide a stopper there).

One table took this route and made all thirteen tricks, for a top.  Five diamonds is probably a safer choice.  One table bid this and made an overtrick.  Four spades is a riskier contract, since there are only seven trumps between the two hands.  Another table chose this and took all thirteen tricks, with the spades splitting three-three and the queen onside.  However the optimum contract is six diamonds, only found at one table.

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

Hapgood sets down a marker at Green Valley

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, August 16, Treasure Hill - Stableford

A smaller than usual field made the trip to Treasure Hill, perhaps the daunting reputation of the course deterring some of the weaker hearted players. The course is undergoing extensive work and promises to be potentially excellent in a few months time. In the event the fairways and greens were generally good, although the 17th hole now has a temporary green, and there is extensive drainage work on the par three 6th hole.

Peter Habgood.

It was millionaire’s golf today as the course was empty and the weather good; a brief storm coming in as the last players were walking up the 18th fairway, “som nam na” for being slow!

The shot of the day was produced by Mashi on the infamous par three 2nd hole, his 200 yard tee shot finishing 18 inches from the pin for a tap-in birdie and 4 points, thank you very much.

There were only a couple of blemishes on Mashi’s card as he cruised home to take first place. Second place was taken by Peter Habgood who beat Geoff Parker on a count-back, after 3 consecutive pars on the final three holes.

1st Mashi Kaneta (10) 31pts
2nd Peter Habgood (17) 29pts
3rd Geoff Parker (16) 29pts
Near Pins: Peter Habgood and Mashi (2)
Wednesday, August 18, Bangpra - Medal

We arrived at Bangpra to find that three other golf societies were booked on the same day(fortunately not at the same time!), which proves how popular this course has become since the recent renovations. There is still some maintenance work ongoing on a couple of fairways, but the course is generally in very good condition.

We teed off on time but the round promised to be slow on a crowded course more resembling high season. The greens proved to be as fast and tricky as ever, particularly after some of the very slow greens we have played recently, and 3 putts were being made with regularity.

All proceeded well until the 10th hole when ominous dark clouds appeared and the rumble of thunder could be heard approaching. In the end all 3 groups congregated at the water stop on the 12th tee as the thunder and lightning crashed all around us. The caddies were huddled in a tight knit group, and were truly terrified, not much chance of persuading them to leave the shelter. We waited for an hour in torrential rain and watched as the course became more and more flooded, before cancelling the competition.

Many golfers were still reluctant to head back to the clubhouse, as the lightning was still very close, but eventually all made it back safely. No rain-checks at Bangpra, and the course management at least must have had a very good day, given the number of golfers on the course.

Friday, August 20, Green Valley - Stableford

Several of the star regulars were playing in the monthly PSC competition, both William Macey and Colin Greig acquitting themselves well, but the overall honours were claimed by Mashi.

The remaining diehards made their way to Green Valley in very unpromising conditions, but the rain held off for the first 10 holes. A persistent drizzle then followed for the remainder of the round, making conditions very tricky. Fortunately there was no spectacular lightning similar to Wednesday, and all the golfers were determined not to lose two rounds in a week.

Peter Habgood got off to a storming start (4 consecutive pars on the first 4 holes) then wobbled a little when the rain came, but eventually managed to pull it together again to take first place. P.J. and Roger Privett also managed the conditions well to take second and third places respectively.

Peter’s win takes him into the lead in the Golfer of the Month competition but it promises to be a close finish when the in-form Tony Robbins returns from holiday next week.

1st Peter Habgood (17) 37pts
2nd P.J. Redmond (19) 33pts
3rd Roger Privett (16) 32pts
Near Pins: Eddie Martin, P.J., and Roger Privett.

Bob & Jeff battle at the top

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, August 17, The Emerald - Stableford

Tuesday saw our group headed for Ban Chang to play The Emerald course, where despite some recent rains, the course was in good condition. The fairways were not rolling out far, but were certainly not soggy, and I cannot recall anyone from our group requiring a casual water drop, or having a “mud ball”. The greens were also rolling true, although perhaps a bit slower than they can be here.

Bob Edwards, left, and Jeff Wylie pose for
a photo after Thursday’s round at Khao Kheow.

The scores were hot, with the two low markers of the group to the fore. Bob Edwards (9) held the sway early with a blistering front nine of 25 points, having had only 10 putts. Lurking not far behind was Jeff Wylie (6) who eventually overhauled Bob to win with 43 points to Bob’s total of 42.

John Chapman (24) with 36 points was a distant third, but was well pleased with his return to form following a longish lay off.

Near pins were shared between landlord Ray and Jeff with three.

Thursday, August 19, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Thursday was Khao Kheow, where the C & A layout were to be our challenge for the day.

Bob Edwards (9) was able to gain some revenge on Jeff today, with a very creditable 35 points, which should have been 36, Bob having had a slip in his course management at the short par 5 A8.

Jeff squeaked in to second spot with an unspectacular 32 points, the putts just did not want to drop on this day.

Near pins were secured by Jeff with two, while Bob and Ken got one each.

Last week we alluded to the fickle nature of amateur golf, and just look for Jeff’s meagre return at the PSC tournament for further testament to that fact.

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!

From ‘Nagger’ to winner

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday’s winners Warren Gallop and Gareth Herbert with ‘2’s champs Liz Hartley and Alan Thomas. Inset, Tuesday’s “Nagger” award winner Fergus Brennan takes a drink.

Barry Hooper

Last week on Saturday Gareth Herbert was the winner of the “Nagger” award (given for lowest score on the day of 25 points). Well what a turnaround in fortunes a week can make. This past Saturday he swept the board and came home for the win with forty-three points, beating the next best player Warren Gallop by five clear.

What topped it all is that the winner from the previous Saturday, Norman Cheetham, went on to win the “Nagger” award this week. Who is it that says that golf is not a funny old game?

Congratulations Gareth it shows that determination can pay off.

Monday, August 16, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Jon Dean (8) 35pts
2nd Mod Chaviraksa (12) 32pts
3rd Warren Gallop (10) 31pts

On Monday we went back to Green Valley for a second week in a row, this time with a modest group and just one division. I have it reported that conditions were acceptable, if not a little damp, and Jon Dean found form with thirty-five points to be top man on the day. Three back in second was Mod Chaviraksa and Warren Gallop took third on 31 points.

Only one ‘2’ on the day came from Jon Dean, which resulted in him ringing the bell at the presentation.

Tuesday, August 17, Siam C.C. (Old Course) – Stabelford
1st Eddie Townsend (15) 32pts
2nd Warren Gallop (10) 32pts
3rd Ito Akitoshi (8) 32pts
4th Billy Ostle (14) 32pts

Tuesday was a bit of a surprise with us attending Siam Country Club (Old Course). Reason being they were offering a price deal that was not to be missed and thus it attracted a fair turnout of players.

A returning Eddie Townsend (good to see him back) made the most of the opportunity to play this great course and came home in first place after a four-way count-back which went down to the last three holes for the win. In second was Warren Gallop ahead of Ito Akitoshi in third and Billy Ostle in fourth, all on 32 points.

Two ‘2’’s came from Daryl Ottoway and (Mr. ‘2’) Ted Senior.

Thursday, August 19, Phoenix - Stableford
1st Norman Cheetham (18) 43pts
2nd Ted Senior (14) 36pts
3rd Mod Chaviraksa (12) 36pts
4th Alan Thomas (8) 36pts

It was back to Phoenix on Thursday (price back to normal) to play the Mountain and Ocean layouts.

Norman Cheetham came home in first spot with a 43-pointer and was justly awarded a cut in his handicap back to fifteen. Ted Senior was second with an even par 36, beating Mod Chaviraksa on the count-back by two on the back nine.

Three ‘2’s were recorded by Amphan North, Fergus Brennan and (Mr. ‘2’) again, Ted Senior.

Saturday, August 21, The Emerald – Stableford
1st Garet Herbert (36) 43pts
2nd Warren Gallop (10) 38pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (15) 37pts

A return to the Ban Chang area on Saturday and this time Emerald was the venue. I must say that the management there are really trying their best for everyone and this is a course that plays well whatever the weather.

I had whisper in the week that they have had a major theft of their sprinkler heads recently, however it has to be said that the amount of rain in that area of late will help alleviate any watering problems that may have arisen.

The day started off as a wet one but improved after the front nine for most players. Gareth Herbert, who has it must be said not had the best of fortune with his game of late, found his real form and came home for the win with a great score of 43 points and told me that he had his best day’s golf ever.

Warren Gallop was second on 38 points and Roger Wilkinson came third with 37.

The ‘2’s winners on the day were Liz Hartley and Alan Thomas.

The “Nagger” awards for this week went to the following: Richard Hall (Monday), Fergus Brennan (Tuesday), see photo, Jeff Wilcox (Thursday) and Norman Cheetham (Saturday).

Note: If you want any further information about the golf outings by the TRGG from the Travellers Rest Hotel, please contact the hotel manager Tewin Lamthong on 086 056 7019 or just call into the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at the notice board or visit our website at www.trgg.biz.

A good week for ducks

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, August 16, Rayong C.C. – Stableford
CSS 72
1st Alan Pilkington (10) 34pts
2nd Rodney Hayes (9) 33pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (12) 32pts
4th Graham Wilson (12) 32pts
5th Roar Berger (27) 30pts

Another week of heavy weather underlined the rainy season is here with a vengeance and the local courses generally are suffering from the inability of the greens-keepers to get the mowers onto the course and keep it in good enough condition to allow for serious golf.

Alan Pilkington.

Rayong Country Club, not usually blessed with the sharpest tools in the mowers in that respect, could be excused for the condition of the greens where putting appeared to be through the first cut of the rough, making a single putt almost impossible and a four putt the more likely result. Allied to the extremely wet course, it all made for a very tough day out.

Alan Pilkington, picking up where he left off on the previous Friday, stayed the course well to record what in the circumstances was a very good two over handicap for a win for the second time in succession.

Roar Berger.

Rodney Hayes, fast becoming known as the usual suspect, was again to be found amongst the winners on the day, taking second place a shot behind and one in front of Trevor Schirmer in third. Trevor just got the edge on newcomer Graham Wilson with a better count back of 17 to 16, with Roar Berger rounding out the list another two points behind them.

With the greens being as difficult as they were it was unsurprising that there were no 2’s in either division.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed Graham Wilson as a new member.

Wednesday, August 18, Greenwood - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Roar Berger (27) 37pts
2nd Russell Exley (7) 35pts
3rd Rick Holmes (10) 35pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (12) 34pts
5th Shuichi Kodaka (17) 34pts

A sure sign of a quiet period for the local is when the courses start to discount the discounted prices, as was and is the case at Greenwood, where the price for two players including green fee, caddy, sharing a golf cart, plus tokens for a beer and a snack was 750 baht a head. In addition, if taking a shared golf cart, the round can be played without the additional cost of a caddy for an even greater saving.

Hopes were high that by traveling a distance away from base, where it was raining steadily when departure time came round, the weather would be kinder than during the previous outing and those wishes were well rewarded as the rain stayed away all day while all around looked dark and threatening.

But even though the day stayed dry the course was completely another matter, with the fairways soaked and the greens, although far better than Monday were still very slow again due to the inability to mow them as they were almost waterlogged.

Roar Berger made the best of the conditions with a very steady return of one under handicap which was good for first, leaving Russell Exley to battle it out with Rick Holmes in a count back for second, which he won with a better 18 to 17.

Trevor Schirmer slipped into fourth also with a better count back of 17 to 14 against Shuichi Kodaka in fifth.

Once again there were no 2’s in either division.

Prior to the presentations Toshihiro Aoki and Jason Cole were welcomed back.

Friday, August 20, The Emerald - Stableford

After a delayed start watching the rain, a very low spirited group of golfers from Soi 13 set off to play but with a group on the second green, one on the fairway and another on the tee and the other groups still on the first hole, the heavens really opened up and the whole field trooped off to sit once again in the clubhouse sipping tea and nibbling biscuits for upwards of an hour.

With overcast skies, but no rain, the competition re-started once more and this time the leading group made it all the way round to the tenth hole before once again the rain came down too heavily to allow play to continue and set in for the day.

Luckily it was just about time for the refreshment bars in Ban Chang to open, so after a little thought the day’s golf was called to a halt and the day’s entertainment began. There was nothing of further interest to report for the rest of the day, except one of the players had a ‘hole in one’, but wished to remain anonymous.

Note: If you would like to play with The Haven group you can contact mobile 084782 4582 or call in to the hotel at 185 Soi 13 between Beach Road and 2nd Road. All transportation to the course is arranged and you do not need to sign up prior to the day, but you should be there by 8.30 on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays on the days you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played can be found on our web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com.

Stafford tames ‘The Beast’

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column

Monday, August 16, Burapha - Stableford

Yet another odd combination for the 24 Outbackers here today, the A and C nines, and what a combination - the rough on C was absolutely brutal, one wonders if their (the management’s) mowers have all broken down, however it was a good day out.

Friday division A & C winners, Colin Goon, left, and Bill Rogers.

Courses B and D are now closed for the next couple of weeks as the final preparations take place for the upcoming Thailand Open, which starts on Thursday 26th August. Entry is apparently free and maybe be well worth a visit as the Pros will tackle the tough B & D loops with some brand new tee boxes, which is bound to make the course a tough test. The field includes Thaworn Wirichant, who would love to win his home Open, and 53 more of his fellow countrymen as well as Hua Hin based, Simon Yates and Liang Wenchong, who finished 8th in the USPGA at Whistling Straits, making the worldwide headlines with his course record setting third round of 64. Shingo Katayama will also be there, as will the runaway winner of the Indonesian Open, Kiwi, Michael Hendry.

One of Syd’s latest ‘tourist’ designs.

Now back to us guys: Sel Wegner (36pts) again showed how classy he is with a golf club, to win Div A, which despite the protestations, will see his handicap clipped another shot down to 11. Paul Bourke (35pts) had his best finish since arriving back here from Aus, two or three weeks ago, and Rosco took third with 34.

Brit Steve Milne (long-time 50% holder of the ‘Roo Cup’) won Div B with 36 points, four clear of (always there or thereabouts) Brain Maddox with 32.

There were two ‘2’s from Tony Garnett and Greg Flanagan

Just as a final note, it was a perfect day for golf, no rain and not too hot; so one has to wonder, looking at the Capt’s score, if he’s trying to get his handicap out to the same as the ‘General’s’....13!

Div A (0-14)
1st Sel Wegner (12) 36pts
2nd Paul Bourke (10) 35pts
3rd Rosco Langoulant (13) 34pts
Div B (15+)
1st Steve Milne (16) 36pts
2nd Brian Maddox (19) 32pts
3rd Eldridge Suggs (17) 30pts
Monday, August 16, Green Valley - Stableford

A full house at this week’s alternate, 16 Outbackers playing in some excellent conditions, which unfortunately turned out to be a slowish round, courtesy of a couple of ‘far eastern’ groups who were taking their time. Nevertheless there were some great scores, not least from Paul Greenaway, the clear winner by three with 40 points. Back in second was Norm (the chatter) Cheetham with 37 and Gentleman George was in third on 36.

We welcomed back John Lawton, having his first game after his stint in Kazakhstan and considering that, he played very well for his 33 points, even though he knocked his drive OB on the last. He lost out on the count-back for fifth place to Kathy Doody and Ian Heddle took fourth with 35.

Although there were some near misses, no ‘2’s were recorded.

1st Paul Greenaway (11) 40pts
2nd Norm Cheetham (18) 37pts
3rd George Bishop (15) 36pts
4th Ian Heddle (5) 35pts
5th Kathy Doody (19) 33pts
Tuesday, August 17, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

Only twelve players today: the story goes that some of the regulars heard that John Lawton was back from Kazakhstan so now would be a good time to get away to Hua Hin.

For the ones who played - apart from all the tees being sanded – it was a nice quiet round on a near empty course and they were just lucky enough to escape the weather, which took a turn for the worse.

One division today with places down to fifth as there were no ‘2’s. Leading the way was last week’s winner, Terry Marney, with a fine 40 points and looking back on Terry’s other recent results with the Outback; 13th July - first, 20th July - second, 27th July - fourth; maybe the time is near for the handicap snipper to sharpen the scissors.

Erik Antonnen (36pts) turned his game round after his shocking score last week and even since yesterday (Mon) after his 23 points at Green Valley, to take second after beating playing partner Paul Smets on count-back. Frank (35pts) got fourth ahead of David Day in fifth, leaving the day’s organiser, Chad, back in sixth to go home empty handed. The fact that Chad had to endure playing with John Lawton, which includes at least one mandatory beer at each and every drink stop (including one on the first tee), probably contributed to his back nine collapse not dissimilar to the demise of the other two players in the group, Geoff and Jack.

1st Terry Marney (27) 40pts
2nd Erik Anttonen (7) 36pts
3rd Paul Smets (21) 36pts
4th Frank O’Neill (18) 35pts
5th David Day (19) 34pts
Wednesday, August 18, Bangpra - Stableford

This is a great course, one the Outback for some reason rarely visits, but today 20 Outbackers were treated to a course that was presented in excellent condition with a noticeably industrious workforce preparing for the upcoming B-ing Pro-Am on Tuesday 31st August (there are still some places available – contact Capt’ Bob).

We were away on time but it was slow going; the monkeys were threatening to nick the drives on the first fairway, and on the second we had to leave a caddie on guard by the buggies, as the cheeky little things will pinch anything they can lay their hands on. The pace picked up for a couple of holes but then with four groups on the first par five, we knew we were in for a long day.

The greens were at their Bangpra Sunday best, slick as you like and scary from above the hole, and many players racked up three putts and sometimes even four. Unfortunately the weather worsened after the front nine as a storm closed in, thoroughly disrupting play by the fifteenth and sixteenth. It was a vicious storm, directly overhead for some time and it absolutely bucketed it down, completely flooding the fairways which oddly enough brought out the many large monitor lizards that live on the course, as they were seen plodding their way to and fro across the fairways.

After a good hour, we returned to a course that was virtually unplayable and many of the team were unable to return a score. However, a quorum was reached and it was declared a tournament with Sel Wegner continuing to blaze a trail round all the courses in Pattaya to win Div A with an amazing 39 points, despite being cut another shot to 11. He has now been cut to 10! A long way back was Paul Greenaway with 30 and Murray Hart on 29.

There were only four finishers in Div B with the honours going to Ken Hemmerich with 35 ahead of Gus George on 33, his first podium finish with the Outback. Well done Gus!

There was one ‘jackpot 2’ bagged by the General.

Div A (0-16)
1st Sel Wegner (11) 39pts
2nd Paul Greenaway (11) 30pts
3rd Murray Hart (14) 29pts
Div B (17+)
1st Ken Hemmerich (18) 35pts
2nd Gus George (33) 33pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (22) 30pts
Friday, August 20, Khao Kheow - Stableford

It was a racing certainty that the 36 Outbackers at Khao Kheow would not have been able to finish due to the heavy rain all around, you could have put your house on it; however you would have lost the lot, somehow they escaped the rain. At the bar, it was a little different as we endured the third day of heavy rain and squalls but we are pleased to say, we’re still here and the beer’s still cold, albeit the main road looked more like a river at times.

At last the guys are beginning to tame this course, well at least in the B & C divisions; the ‘A’ grade players still look as though they’ve a bit of work to do. Starting with them (Div A), Colin Goon, who was having his last game before returning to Aus, at last had a result, winning with 34 hard earned points, followed by one of the Hua Hin favourites, Paul Greenaway on 32 and a chasing pack (4 players) all on 31.

Bernie Stafford taught the course a lesson or two for his brilliant 42 points in B division, way ahead of another one of the Hua Hin favourites, Murray Hart with 36, closely followed by Jim Bryan on 35; who is a good each way bet off 16 for Hua Hin, following his success on the recent Batam trip.

Bill Rogers headed Div C with an excellent 39 points, two and three in front of two more Hua Hin hopefuls; Bruce McAdam (37) and the Sugarman (36).

There were just two ‘2’s from Lloyd Shuttleworth and Paul Bourke.

Note: The Hua Hin tour starts this Sunday (22nd Aug), when 28 of the Outback’s finest will do battle over three rounds on two of Hua Hin’s most challenging courses, Black Mountain and Banyan, for a new trophy, to be known as the Syd Le Bron Putter. This was a putter, specially made for the Outback by Syd and presented to us last year in Chiang Mai.

Div A (0-12)
1st Colin Goon (5) 34pts
2nd Paul Greenaway (11) 32pts
3rd Ian Heddle (5) 31pts
Div B (14-18)
1st Bernie Stafford (14) 42pts
2nd Murray Hart (14) 36pts
3rd James Bryan (16) 35pts
Div C (19+)
1st Bill Rogers (28) 39pts
2nd Bruce McAdam (22) 37pts
3rd Sugar Ray Handford (19) 36pts

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.

Café Kronborg extend lead at the top

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

A third of the way through the season and Café Kronborg continue to lead in the league standings. After a 3-1 loss to VFW Post 9876 last week, Café Kronborg bounced back strongly with a 4 point romp over Team Bavaria on a balanced effort led by Jang Shaw carting a 528 series.

200 Bowlers: Ooy & Dang.

Café Kronborg regained their 3 1/2 point margin of separation over second place team VFW Post 9876 who managed no better than a 2–2 split with Brother D. Brother D started out strongly in their match taking the first game on the back of Dang Down’s 208 score.

Team Canada maintained third place with a slim 1/2 point lead after taking 3 points from Team USMC.

Green Tree and Sabai Friday made the strongest upward moves, both sweeping 4 points from their challengers. Green Tree swept their match via a balanced attack resulting in a move from sixth place to replace last week’s fourth place team House of the Golden Coin.

House of the Golden Coin dropped further in the standings to sixth place as Sabai Friday moved up from eight to fifth place after taking 4 points from Jack Tar. Sabai Friday’s sweep overshadowed a strong individual effort by Jack Tar’s Ooy Pluemkamon who rolled a 213, the high score of the day, in game three of their match.