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Annual Longboat race this weekend
Experience the fun and excitement of Longboat racing at Pattaya’s Lake
Mabprachan this weekend.
The 10th Pattaya International
Longboat Race takes place this weekend at Mabprachan Reservoir.
A joint collaboration between Pong Municipality, Chonburi
PAO, Pattaya City, TAT Pattaya office and the private sector, the races will
be held on Saturday and Sunday November 20 and 21.
Up for grabs is the HRH Princess Sirindhorn trophy and
the HRH Princess Soamsawalee trophy.
Some 30 boats have entered one of the three main
categories, namely “big-long” 55 rowers, “small-long” 30 rowers and
“international” 12 rowers. Countries participating this year include
Cambodia, Taiwan, Macau, Burma, Vietnam, Thailand and Laos.
Other fun activities include a long-drum competition for
students and general public with all the fun starting at 9.00 a.m.
Sky high City hit double figures against Bangkok United
MBMG International League Div. 1 & 2
Paul Frain
History was made last week at Horseshoe Point when
Pattaya City played the league’s first match under floodlights in a
rearranged Division 1 fixture against Bangkok United.
City seemed to enjoy the later kick-off and attacked from
the whistle with Mark Brittain forcing the United keeper into a great save
early on. Soon after, Tshhuma’s header thundered against the visitors’ cross
bar and City continued to pile on the pressure but somehow Bangkok United
were able to clear their lines every time a goal seemed imminent.
The relentless pressure by City eventually brought them a
goal by Brittain, who received a perfect cross from Dipita before prodding
the ball home to make it 1-0. With the breakthrough achieved, the home team
would go on to double their advantage soon after when a through ball by
Fernando went straight to City’s Matveev who stuck it home to make it 2-0.
City were forced into a rearguard action for a brief
period as United tried to get a foothold back in the game but their defence
held firm and they caught the visitors out on the break with a swift move
that saw Brittain’s cross find Matveev who made no mistake to score City’s
third goal.
Half time came with the home team in a seemingly
unassailable position at 3-0 to the good.
After the break Bangkok United were determined to get
back into the game and forced City keeper Ananthakul into making two
splendid saves. However, it was City who were to score again next when a
quick free-kick found Matveev in space and he secured his hat-trick with a
fine finish.
Worse was to follow for the visitors when then had a man
sent off soon after and the floodgates really opened. Leading City scorer
Ndjanna shot home when picking up a loose ball to make it 5-0 and then City
went further ahead with Brittain scoring a quick-fire brace to secure his
own hat-trick and make the score 7-0.
The City players were just lining up to at this stage and
Ndjanna, Matveen and the impressive Brittain all obliged to make the final
result 10-0 to the Pattaya team.
This was City’s most complete performance of the season
so far and everybody played very well. Some credit must be given to Bangkok
United however, who continued to try and play football despite being a man
down and on the wrong end of a drubbing.
Pattaya City Reserves
hammer BSL
Pattaya City Reserves played BSL Masters at Mabprachan
Lake, Pong, which is the biggest pitch in the league and fielded seven
teenagers in their line-up.
They were soon ahead in the match when Brown fed Supachai,
who ran the length of the pitch to shoot past a bemused keeper to make it
1-0. BSL hit back but the City keeper was sound and collected the shots with
confidence.
Supachai wasted a great chance as his shot was saved by
the BSL keeper’s legs, however the same player made amends moments later
when he set up Nakornmuang who made no mistake to make it 2-0. Both players
then missed easy chances but with attacks raining down on the BSL goal
Lvelan made it 3-0 with a shot from an acute angle.
In the second half City attacked straight from the
restart and Narain’s strong shot crashed into the roof of the BSL net after
a great build up involving six players to make it 4-0 to City.
BSL’S keeper was kept busy when he had to tip over a shot
from Nitichai and then Brown hit a post. Chances were missed by the young
City forwards and this allowed BSL a footing back in the match, but their
clear scoring chances were few.
Narong then made a dazzling run for City and his shot
hammered into the BSL net to make the score 5-0. BSL finally got on the
score-sheet when the Pattaya defence made a hash of clearing the ball and a
BSL player stole through to grab a consolation goal. However City were not
yet finished with their own scoring and Supachai soon notched City’s 6th
goal and completed his own hat-trick in the process to make the final score
6-1.
Pattaya City Reserves are an improving side and here they
played their best game to date. If they can keep improving then they could
become a force after the Christmas break.
This weekend sees some League Cup games being played and
neither Pattaya City nor Pattaya City Reserves will have a fixture.
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FC Nova go down fighting in Bangkok
MBMG International League Div. 2
FC Nova
line up prior to their match
against Golden Boys in Bangkok last weekend.
FC Nova tasted defeat for the first time this season when
they lost to Golden Boys in Bangkok last Saturday.
The technically gifted Bangkok side certainly deserved
their victory, however a sterling second half fight back by Nova nearly
snatched a point and coach Stuart Levy could be proud of his side as they
gave their all against undoubtedly the best team in the division.
Nova had assembled a strong 15 man squad to travel up to
Bangkok and Levy made two changes from the previous week’s victory: Paul
Derbyshire and Sit Namthong being brought back to bolster Nova’s attacking
options.
In fact the visitors made a decent start to the game and
will rue the fact that they missed a number of glorious chances early on to
open the scoring, that on reflection proved crucial to the final outcome of
the match. Bjorn Ellingsen, Derbyshire and Namthong all blazed balls over
the bar with the best chance falling to defender David Booton who saw his
free header from a Namthong free kick brilliantly saved by the Golden Boy
keeper.
It was not long however until Golden Boy found their feet
and their flowing one touch football had Nova at time chasing shadows, so
much so was their dominance, Levy soon changed the formation of the side,
packing the midfield in a desperate attempt to get some control of the game.
Nova also did not help their cause by giving the ball
away too cheaply against a side that retained possession of the football so
well. It was real back to the walls stuff, and Captain Lee Homer and his
defence were working overtime to keep the Golden Boys attacks at bay.
To the large part they had done their job, along with
excellent Mark Mckeowen in midfield. By getting numbers behind the ball they
managed to limit the number of clear cut opportunities that came Golden Boys
way. However it was taking its toll on a number of Nova’s players and coach
Levy was forced into making a number of substitutions due to injury or sheer
exhaustion!
Finally Nova’s resistance was broken with five minutes
remaining in the first half; they found themselves cut to pieces down the
right flank and a quick succession of one touch passes allowed the Golden
Boy striker the simplest of chances from which he made no mistake.
Soon after Nova found themselves two down after another
flowing move, this time down the left side, saw the ball cut back to the
same Golden Boy player to drill home.
Moments later the half time whistle blew and the home
side must have been confident in extending their lead in the second half
after giving the Pattaya based team a sharp lesson in football for most of
the first half.
Although physically drained and with a number of Nova
players carrying knocks, coach Levy rallied and patched up his troops. One
thing you can certainly say about this Nova side is they have guts and
determination in abundance and they brought this to the fore in the second
half.
They finally managed to get their passing game going and
kept the ball so much better than they did in the first half, with Mckeowen
and Roger Cox in the centre of the park closing the Golden Boys talented
midfield down a lot quicker, snapping at their heals at every opportunity.
It unsettled the home team and the visitors soon found
themselves on top of a game that for the large part looked out of their
reach. Chances soon came and with twenty minutes remaining they deservedly
pulled a goal back. Nicholas Creasey cleverly threaded the ball through to
Derbyshire who was upended inside the box. Captain Lee Homer, who had been
outstanding in the second half, confidently stepped up to fire home the
penalty.
With ten minutes remaining Nova should have been level
when the tireless working Derbyshire rolled the Golden Boy centre half
before putting Namthong through on goal but the striker sent his shot
agonisingly wide of the post.
Nova laid siege in the dying minutes forcing a number of
corners, however they failed to capitalize on these and were soon made to
pay when the home side broke away to score a third goal and seal their
victory.
For the neutral it was a great game of football to watch
and Nova and coach Levy will certainly take heart from their battling second
half performance. Also it will be a day for every football fan to put in
their diary when Golden Boys travel to Pattaya for the return fixture.
Win or lose the Nova players and management certainly
know how to party and they travelled back to Pattaya in buoyant mood and
were soon seen living it up in a packed Jamesons Irish Bar on Saturday
night!
This Saturday Nova hopefully have a cup fixture in
Bangkok but at this point in time are still awaiting confirmation from the
league as to their opponents.
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Maher or Mahoney?
PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar
Robert
McVey, left, with a couple
of the Irish Raiders and Kissy Buchanan, right.
Joey’s column
Monday, Nov. 8, Burapha -
Stableford
Burapha today and the wind was blowing hard, so Capt’ Bob
said white tees, even though we were playing A & B. The course was in great
condition producing some good scores plus the usual ordinary ones.
Joined by a large Irish contingent from Ballybunion Golf
Club and a couple of blokes from Tipperary, the numbers were up to 35, and
it was good to see the greens staff can get on the course with the mowers as
the rain seems to be gone, making it a pleasure to play golf again with the
ball running instead of plugging. The lucky draw for free green fees in the
Burapha restaurant is going well and seems to be appreciated by all.
It was back to the Outback for a BBQ afterwards, that
went down well and this will continue every golf day from now on, quite
simply a dog or a burger at the moment, either for 50 baht. You don’t have
to be a golfer to attend you just have to be here, starting around 3.30 p.m.
When it came to presentation time the Capt’ had
difficulty pronouncing the names of some of the winners but with help from
our Irish mates he got a lesson in how to pronounce Mahoney and Maher -
don’t worry fellas, I’ve got it now.
Welcome back to Terry Smith, who we haven’t seen for a
while as he spends much of the colder winter months in South Africa, in
amongst his brief trips here; still playing well off nine and scoring 38
points today to win Div A from James Mahoney (also 38) and the consistent
Raji (37).
Another one of the Irish raiders, this time Billy Maher,
took Div B with the day’s top score of 39, ahead of Mike Holmes (38) and two
more Irish raiders, Mike & Dan, both with 37.
Bill Peach & Sid Ottaway shared the same score of just 36
in Div C, Bill getting the nod in the customary manner; ahead of five guys,
all on 35 points; which was a ‘no contest’ count-back as Ed Delaney had an
amazing 11pts on the front but 24 on the back!
There were eight ‘2’s from Pat Tracey, Bob Philp, Bob
Noble, Steve Mann, Mike Holmes, Raji & Terry Smith had two.
Note: Bob Noble’s ‘2’ was an eagle on the par 4 fourth
hole on A and also the news reached us that he had an ‘air shot’ in the
bunker on the 18th. Well done Bob!
Div A (0-12)
1st Terry Smith (9) 38pts
2nd James Mahoney (5) 38pts
3rd Amarjit Banwaitt (8) 37pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Billy Maher (16) 39pts
2nd Mike Holmes (13) 38pts
3rd Mike Nagel (13) 37pts
Div C (18+)
1st William Peach (21) 36pts
2nd Sid Ottaway (24) 36pts
3rd Eddie Delaney (27) 35pts
Tuesday, Nov. 9, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford
Another good turnout at Pattaya C.C. with 17 Outbackers
arriving to play in absolutely ideal weather with a good stiff breeze to
keep us all cool; the only problem is – the greens, however, the course
remains popular for its location, layout and of course it’s very reasonable
membership fees.
Raji ran away with it with an excellent 41 points off 8
(now 7) H/cap, which we hear included a couple of eagles, his comment being
that it was a very short course. Hmm! Probably more like he is a very good
player, he’s already got 9 points on this month’s ladder.
The big hitting Owen Lloyd (2nd)
was told by his caddie to take a three wood on the tricky 17th and to swing
easy but somehow he managed to hook the ball up to the group teeing off on
the 16th as Chad displayed his cricket prowess, nearly catching the ball. He
had a shot in, just, with his feet standing in the bushes.
Geoff Moodie had 35 points standing on the 16th tee and
finished on the 18th with the same 35 to take fourth, three behind Paul
Smets in third with 38.
There were only two ‘2’s, both about four foot putts from
Geoff Moodie.
1st Amarjit Banwaitt (8) 41pts
2nd Owen Lloyd (13) 39pts
3rd Paul Smets (19) 38pts
4th Geoff Moodie (26) 35pts
5th Frank O’Neill (20) 34pts
Wednesday, Nov. 10, Greenwood – Stableford
At long last they (the Greenwood management) have opened
the best nine they’ve got, the ‘C’ loop. Kept under wraps for so long, one
wonders why they use it so little; in conjunction with the ‘A’ loop, this
adds up to as good a course you can find anywhere locally.
Eighteen Outbackers took it on today in ideal conditions
but nobody ran away with it, with the top score being just one better than
handicap, 37 points from our organiser for the day, Steve Mann. However, it
was all very close with Dan Willits & Andy Butts, tied on 36 and Sid Ottaway
& Jim Peachey, tied on 35.
There were three ‘2’s from Jeff Bunn, Sean Johnston &
Tony Garnett.
We’re back here again on Weds 1st
December; let’s hope with a few more groups and that loop C is open.
1st Steve Mann (11) 37pts
2nd Daniel Willits (12) 36pts
3rd Andy Butterworth (12) 36pts
4th Sid Ottaway (24) 35pts
5th Jim Peachey (13) 35pts
Friday, Nov. 12, Khao Kheow – Stableford
A packed house at Khao Kheow, as the regular Outbackers
were joined by some 22 gentlemen from Ireland, some of whom played with us
before at Burapha, swelling the total to 59 players today. The course was in
magnificent condition, playing B & C the yellow markers with a little wind
it played quite tame with some really good scores coming in all divisions.
The top score came from Robert McVey in Div B with 43
points – a division unusually of 14 players with a handicap of either 13 or
14; he headed a trio of Irish raiders on 38, 37 and 36 points.
James Mahoney (Irish - 40pts) played well off 5 to take
Div A, ahead of three tied on 38, namely Tony Garnett, Capt’ Bob and Paul
Bourke. Div C was wrapped up by another of the Irish, Gerry Mernagh (37pts)
with only the Aussie “Kissy” (36pts) preventing a clean sweep by the Irish
in that division.
Div D also went to an Irishman, this time a resident one,
Ed Delaney with 40 points, who probably put together one of his best ever
rounds and will surely see his handicap tumble to 24. Sakorn did really well
too to take second, getting 38 points off of H/cap 23, two less than her
normal one.
A great day was had by all with many of the Irish raiders
up there in the placings but they were happy to buy everyone a drink as they
said, “this is embarrassing taking all this money off you nice lads”. But
the funny part was when they paid the bill, it came to almost all the money
they had won between them and were heard to say, “the Capt’ engineered that
perfectly.”
On a more serious note though, this course really is
great value for money and in such grand condition considering the rainy
season has only just finished and to say the greens were excellent also
would be an understatement. We wish the Irish lads good luck on their
travels as a lot of them are on their way home on Monday, (back to the
grind) as we say.
There were four ‘2’s from Capt’ Bob, John Cogan, Kissy
Buchanan & Bob Lindborg.
Div A (0-12)
1st James Mahoney (5) 40pts
2nd Tony Garnett (11) 38pts
3rd Bob Philp (9) 38pts
4th Paul Bourke (10) 38pts
Div B (13-14)
1st Robert McVey (14) 43pts
2nd Dan Blake (13) 38pts
3rd Mike Higgins (13) 37pts
4th Mike Nagel (13) 36pts
Div C (15-18)
1st Gerry Mernagh (17) 37pts
2nd Keith Buchanan (17) 36pts
3rd Frank O’Brien (18) 35pts
4th Billy Maher (16) 35pts
Div D (19+)
1st Eddie Delaney (26) 40pts
2nd Sakorn Pramoolchart (23) 38pts
3rd Joe Guerin (19) 37pts
4th Sid
Ottaway (24) 35pts
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Poppy Day golf
tournament proves a big hit
The
tournament winners, Steve Hamstad
and Jeff Warner, collect their trophies.
Derek Brook
Friday, Nov. 5, Khao Kheow
– 2-Ball Better Ball Stableford
As with all good ideas, this one came about over a beer
in Tropical Bert’s. We were knocking ideas about for enhancing the
‘Remembrance’ period and maximizing income for our charitable actions when
it was suggested we have a ‘Poppy Day’ golf tournament.
Runners-up Frances Goyon and Thierry Petrement collect their awards from
Derek Brook, 2nd
left, and Graham MacDonald, right.
With yours truly ‘volunteered’ as tournament organizer
and Graham and Bert tasked with the difficult job of nailing down sponsors,
the idea slowly germinated into something tangible and things began to take
shape.
Khao Kheow G.C. was selected as the venue and the format
was decided on as 2-Ball Better Ball Stableford over the A & B nines. Bert
ordered the shirts with a design that reflected the British Legion’s origins
and they will one day be a classic, so well worth keeping.
We selected Jameson’s for the night time function as Kim
Fletcher is ‘A Friend of The Legion’ and usually comes through for us. Here
I must thank Kim for not only the night but he also played and put in a
four-ball.
The
trophy sponsors display the main prize table.
After a slow start there was much relief as the players
began to sign up in droves over the final two days and by tee-off time we
had 136 golfers raring to go. Here we must thank Max and Tony at PSC plus
the various golf outlets and Colin Davies at Lewiinskis in particular who
helped in ensuring the tournament was full.
For such a good cause we really deserved good weather and
it was nice and sunny, but also blowing a gale! Early on it was just
difficult to stand up and the ball on the greens went all over the place.
The Long Putt markers, supplied by Khao Kheow, either blew away or became
ripped. I soon solved that by holding them down flat with four tee pegs.
Mind, one ripped in two and blew away. Good fun was had by all!
Bob
Myers Senior, right, proudly holds the fine paratrooper print with Reg.
With the players holding their wigs on with super glue we
were away. The fairways were in good condition, the greens were hard and
fast and the ball went where it wanted. The rough was wicked and on my
second shot my sand wedge snapped in two, so a good day was expected.
However, all in all as we came to the end of the round the wind dropped and
the day became all peaceful and the world looked good.
Back in the clubhouse, after a hot shower, I found Max
beavering away in the reception area tabulating the scores, and being a kind
and considerate leader I left him to it.
Arriving at Jameson’s for the presentations I was not
surprised to find the place packed and finding a seat was at a premium. Dave
Richardson, Mike Gosden and his table made space and that was good as it was
next to the prize area. I have to say the prize presentation looked good and
I particularly thought the trophies, sponsored by ‘The Sons of the Andrew’
alias George, Roy and Kevin looked particularly fine.
The food consumed it was time to get on with the
presentation, and your truly, as Emcee, introduced the Legion President,
Graham MacDonald, and mentioned that our Secretary Bert Elson would have
been there but was recovering from Dengue fever. However Bert had written
his thoughts down and George Barrie was asked to express them, which he did
so very eloquently.
Bert noted that the Royal British Legion Thailand Branch
had come a long way since 2007 when just 15 of us got together to form it.
Since then we have grown significantly and are now approaching nearly 200
members covering all of the country.
Last year we raised just over 196,000 baht from our Poppy
Appeal and spent just over 200,000 baht on welfare cases such as medical
care, hospital visits, rent, household goods, unfortunately funerals and a
number of other things. We also have a number of Thai widows under our wing
and ensure they receive their entitlement with regards to pensions and
grants.
As people get to know us we receive more requests for
help so we knew we needed to increase the funds. We are fairly confident
that this year’s event will equal what we collected last year but not all of
the money will go to the Poppy Appeal as we wanted to also involve a local
charity and decided on the Thai Veterans Hospital in Bangkok, and they are
going to provide us with a ‘wish list’. In return we will use their share of
the proceeds to try and fulfill that list.
After George had spoken it was then time for the
presentations and Graham MacDonald was called upon to present the prizes.
The Near Pin awards went to Gary Green, Colin Swanick, Hugh Byrne, Phillip
Moore (2), and David Spiers.
The major Near Pin was for the one for who got closest on
the Island Green of B8, with the Standard Bearers prize being a 2-day
sailing course for 2 people at The Royal Varuna Yacht Club. This was won by
Jeff Clohessy.
The Long Put awards were picked up by Merle Humphries,
Dick Warberg and Alan Lamb.
Then it was onto the competition prize winners, and here
it has to be said that the most famous players of the night were the
four-ball who by mistake played scramble but still had a great day out.
In sixth place was the team of Patrick Brown and David
Czernie with 42 points while coming in one place better on a count-back was
the pairing of Liam McGuiness and John White. Also finishing with 42 points
but with the better math was the fourth placed team of Patrick Dunbar and
Gerry Power.
We then came to the top three, all who would not get just
a prize but a trophy also. In third place with 43 points was the team of
Jimmy Day and Andrew Byrne, just one point behind the runner up duo of
Frances Goyon and Thierry Petrement.
Our champions this year, and holding onto their hair in
the wind, was the team of Steve Hamstad and Jeff Warner, each winning a
flight for two courtesy of Tiger Air. I have to say here that Jeff Warner
donated his prize back for the financial betterment of the Poppy fund and I
thank him for that gesture.
Before the night wound down we had two special events
take place that are worth mentioning. Four tickets to see Tiger Woods play
at Amata Springs Club were put up for auction and after vigorous bidding a
portly gentlemen who wishes to remain anonymous bought them for 8,500 baht,
and then promptly donated them back and they were sold to the next highest
bidder for 8,000 baht. A fine gesture!
But the high point of the night has to be the auction of
a fine print of a wartime paratrooper landing and after a lengthy bidding
war it was bought by Roy and presented to Bob Myers Senior, the man Roy
calls his ‘step father’. Bob is a lifelong ‘Para’ and the gesture brought
tears to the eyes of many there. Well done Roy.
We finished the evening with the raffle by Reg and Dot
and most of us could relax in the knowledge we had indeed reached the
figures Bert had predicted.
As the ‘organizer’ I thank not only those above but all
who helped out on the day and last but not least our fantastic and generous
sponsors: from MBMG, to Boots and Tesco Lotus, to Tropical Bert’s and to
Matvic Wholesale Butchers, to the Sutlet Group and to Gez and The Pattaya
Invitational Golf Society, to Kim and Jameson’s, and also thanks go to The
Royal Varuna Yacht Club and David Miller for their Standard Bearers Prize
and Massic Travel for their voucher. We also need to thank the anonymous
donors who do not wish to have their names mentioned.
Everyone got involved and contributed to making this a
great golfing day and a fundraising event that will help support some real
worthy causes. We look forward to doing it all again in 12 months time.
T.T.F.N.
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The scrabbled scribe shares the spoils
Phoenix Tuesday Golf Group
Tuesday’s top three stand back row with the staff at the Relax Bar.
Mike Gerrard
After the wind battering day we had the previous Friday
at Khao Kheow with my old mate Derek Brook (Chairman of the British Legion
Pattaya) holding the Remembrance Day Golf Tournament, it was nice to get
back to some kinder weather conditions this Tuesday. I think it could be
said for all participants on Friday that it has been a long time since they
played golf in such windy conditions (except for the hardened Irish and
Scottish links players amongst us). It was also a great pity the course was
in such poor condition, especially the fairways. It was considered by most
that winter rules should have been implemented.
On behalf of all our players who attended I would like to
applaud Derek for the superb day which is for such a good cause. With a
field of 136 players he made sure the day was very successful. (Presentation
dragged on a bit though (too much Guinness).
Back to our Tuesday game where we tackled the Lake/Ocean
course. I also have to say what a pleasure it was to get back to such superb
fairways, and tees and greens, exceptional for this time of the year.
After a terrible front nine of only 13 points, yours
truly took the honours today with a super back nine of 25 points (don’t know
what happened, if only we hackers could do it for 18 holes) to register 38
points in all. In joint first place (but with a lesser back nine) was Shaun
Merriman and in third place was the ever reliable Hugh Byrne, with 37
points.
Back at the Relax Bar we supped our first drink (free,
out of the days takings, thus making sure that anyone who comes back to the
presentation gets some of their investment back).
After this the remainder was split up to cover the near
pins first which went to Shaun Merriman (2) and Phil Kington. With one not
being claimed it went to a lucky draw which was won by Richard Baldwin.
The two lucky draw prizes (donated by the Relax Bar) of a
free massage and free drink went to John Stafford and Patrick Browne
respectively.
For existing participants, and future ones, please try
and get to the registration a little earlier at this time of the year. After
11.30 a.m. places cannot be guaranteed if we have an abundance of players
attending. Communication is the best answer to make sure of your place (by
telephone call only!)
Anyone new wishing to join in with our little group will
be more than welcome as long as they have any official handicap (although we
only allow 28 maximum on the day) and are prepared to play the game strictly
to the rules but with a lot of fun and banter.
Non Phoenix members can enjoy a green fee rate of only
1,000 baht as long as they inform the Phoenix office they are with the
group.
For more information call Mike Gerrard on 087 091 7565 or
Bob Neylon on 081 916 1853.
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Butler blows hot at Eastern Star
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Division
winners from Green Valley:
Georges Faber, Jim Connelly and Joe Kubon.
Monday, Nov. 12, Khao
Kheow - Stableford
This was our first visit here for a few months and our
six groups were allocated the B and C nines with everyone happy about the
course conditions. There was a small problem waiting on the first tee when a
phone call came from one of our regular players who had lost his way and was
now at Siricha Tiger Zoo. We will be buying GF a map from the rollover
kitty.
Tony Barritt, playing off 14, returned 36 points to win
Division 1, ahead of Alan Pilkington in second and Rauli Nummenma in third
with 32 points.
A late night on the town did not prevent Les Smith from
taking out Division 2 with his 35 points. William Chang was second one point
behind and Terry Redding came in third with 32.
Valentina Hiller was the ladies winner today with 27
points.
Rauli birdied the 3rd and 8th
on the B course to share the first division ‘2’spot with Alan Pilkington who
also birdied the island green. William Chang was the only winner in division
2 with the third ‘2’ on the eighth hole. Near pins were claimed by Tony
Barritt, Alan Griffiths, Raivo Velsberg, Chris Voller, Jim Connelly, Mike
Lewis (2) and John Steel.
Wednesday, Nov. 14, Green
Valley - Stableford
We had a great turnout today so three divisions for the
men - plus the ladies of course. There were reports that the greens had been
heavily sanded here and there were a few comments from some of our players
after the round regarding the conditions.
The highest score of the day in the three men’s divisions
was 36 points and in Division 1 there were three contenders all tied on this
score: George Faber took the win with 22 points on the back nine, Chris
Voller was second with 19 and in third place was Frank Kelly with 16.
Acclimatizing now after two weeks here, Jim Connelly took
Division 2 with 36 points ahead of William Chang in second one point behind
and Ben Findon was third with 33.
Joe Kubon’s 33 points was enough to win Division 3 with
Yukio in second place one point behind and Peter Grant beat the old man on a
17/14 back nine count-back for third after they both came in with 31 points.
Commiserations all round for Ken Foster.
The Burapha caddie Miss Kung was the ladies winner with
36 points.
Georges Faber and Chris Voller shared the ‘2’s pot in
Division , both getting birdies on the 16th and Paul
Chabot got one on the 4th to take the only prize in
Division 2.
Near Pins went to Andy Baber, Yasuo Suzuki, Chris Voller,
Miss Kung, Paul Chabot, Ali Dukony and Fred Duffy.
At the presentation at Siam Cats there was a loud
applause to mark the return of Kari Aarnio back to Jomtien.
Friday, Nov. 12, Eastern
Star – Stableford.
Forty-three Jomtien golfers meant another three divisions
today for the men at a course that was already busting at the seams with
players when we arrived. We expected problems at the tenth hole and as our
ladies group arrived there they were pleasantly surprised to find no delay
whatsoever. And this proved to be the case for the rest of the day.
There were some high scores returned today and with 22
points on the back nine and playing off 15, Paul Butler won Division 1 with
a 39 point total. Chris Voller came in second two points behind Paul and
Frank Kelly edged Joe McArdle for third on count-back.
Cully Monks also needed a count-back to win Division 2
ahead of Don Head after they both scored 38 points. Bryan Rought was third
with 35 points.
With only four weeks left before his return to the
Falkland Isles, Peter Grant took top podium position in Division 3 with 39
points. Marty Aronson was second five points behind and Les Smith came in
third on 32.
Miss Nut shot 38 points to win the ladies division.
There were no ‘2’s in Division 1 but Marty Aronson
birdied the 6th and 17th to
scoop the large rollover pot in Division 2.
Near Pins were claimed by Paul Butler, Brian Finn, Tom
Herold, Kari Kuparinen, Marty Aronson, Jim Connelly, Bryan Rought (2) and
Miss Kung.
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Gone with the wind
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Derek Brook
Tuesday, Nov. 9, The
Emerald – Stableford
It’s still windy, and to a golfer, especially me, I would
rather play in pouring rain than a howling gale. Of course we do not really
have much of a choice so the gentle fade becomes the major slice and the
gentle draw becomes the big hook.
Tuesday’s top three, Mashi Kaneta, Mick O’Meara and Dick Warberg, proudly
sporting their Poppys.
The morning started as normal at Bert’s and the big
question was how to get to the Emerald; with the new road open we can zip up
36 and go past Green Valley and take the ‘short cut’ to the course. Nice and
quiet really. Or we can go the way we have for many years, down Sukhumwit
and struggle with the traffic, especially coming back. Difficult decision!
So off we went past Green Valley and arrived nice and
relaxed, it is difficult to arrive any other way when you go with Keith who
is an ex coach driver. Arriving at the course it was immediately obvious
that it was windy, very, and as expected the ball had its own ideas where it
wanted to go. Here at the Emerald if you go off line you usually lose a
ball. Sad innit? If you get a level lie consider yourself lucky, and on the
greens we could still see the results of the maintenance undertaken of late.
All in all ‘wind-blown’ describes the day. But being ‘tough’ golfers we
eventually got around and in surprisingly good spirits. Mind the scores were
not going to be good.
Back at Bert’s it took some time for the presentation to
take place. One thing that surprisingly happens when we play golf anywhere
in this area is that for some reason we mysteriously lose players for a
period of time after golf, and when they turn up all memory of the time
since they left The Emerald seems to have been wiped from their mind. Most
strange!
Finally, and later than usual, the presentation got under
way and it was seen that not one person had shot their handicap. The winner
was Mashi Kaneta with 35 points ahead of Dick Warberg in second with 34
points on count-back over Mick O’Meara in third. In fourth was Brian Gabe
with 33 points ahead of Daryl Evans in fifth.
Near Pins were claimed by John Roberts and Mashi (2), and
the Long Putts went to Keith Phillips and Brian Gabe.
Then after all the excitement it was time for a few cold ones! T.T.F.N.
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Buckingham blitz at Pleasant Valley
PSC golf from The Cafe Kronborg
The Drut
Monday, Nov. 8, Pleasant
Valley –Stableford
Twenty seven golfers assembled at the Cafe Kronborg minus
four guns who headed to Amata Springs golf course to check out the four man
skins game which included Eldrick Woods. We welcomed John Herr and Ed Wright
from America, Andre Baril and Jean Provest from France and Martin Phillips
from the UK.
Thursday’s flight winners: Noel Pittard, Ken Bernek and Dave Richardson.
The leading group completed their round in the good time
of four hours and fifteen minutes. The weather was fine with only a light
breeze and the course in good condition.
In the A flight Elias Magnusson scored forty one points
to win easily ahead of Brian Gabe in second on thirty eight. Jeff Warner,
also on thirty eight points, was relegated to third spot and the consistent
Tom Thompson handed in thirty six points to finish fourth.
Despite the tyranny of lack of distance from the tees and
the added responsibilities as custodian of PSC funds, Graham Buckingham
eclipsed the B Flight with a magnificent forty two points to edge out Svende
Gaarde by one. Patrice Bardy with forty points finished third after holding
off the fast finishing Danish dynamo Jan Lovgreen on the same score.
A Flight (0-17)
1st Elias Magnusson (17) 41pts
2nd Brian Gabe (17) 38pts
3rd Jeff Warner (15) 38pts
4th Tom Thompson (13) 36pts
B Flight (18+)
1st Graham Buckingham (24) 42pts
2nd Svende Gaarde (24) 41pts
3rd Patrice Bardy (18) 40pts
4thJan Lovgreen (22) 40pts
Jeff Warner’s flat stick was working ok as he won the
long putts on both the 9th and 18th
holes. Near pins went to Brian Gabe on the 5th, Svende
Gaarde on the 8th, Patrice Bardy on the 13th
and Mike Winfield on the 17th.
Hole in
One hero Jean Claude Coulon, left, celebrates with The Admiral.
Pattaya has been described as God’s Waiting Room which is
probably a fair comment as the majority of the falang population are of the
creaky crutch variety. The scribe is amongst this august group of residents
and as a result “old timer’s condition “kicks in at the most inopportune
moments. One such moment occurred last week at Bjarne’s Birthday Scramble
where it was remiss of me not to mention that the PSC kindly donated shirts
and golf balls for our lucky draws and we thank them for their generosity.
Thursday, Nov. 11, Khao
Kheow –Stableford
Thirty-three golfers gathered in Soi Diana for the day’s
activities. Playing the B and C nines the first group teed off at 0920
hours, forty minutes earlier than scheduled and completed the journey in the
very good time of four hours and five minutes.
The weather was overcast and mild whilst the course was
in good condition and the greens putted truly.
We welcomed Ole Jensen, Bjarne Kjar and Stenn Feone from
Denmark, Tony Patch and Joel Pittard from Australia and Uwe Zuckermann from
Germany.
The highlight of the day was Jean Claude Coulon reducing
Alcatraz the 8th hole on the B nine to one blow using
a wedge. Congratulations Jean Claude and we are still awaiting our freebie
drinks.
Mention must be made of the group of Stu Rifkin, Paul
Avery, Ken Bernek and Mike Gosden who were sighted on the B nine 6th
tee at 1100 hours, shoulder to shoulder, caps in hand and heads bowed,
whilst observing one minutes silence in honour of the servicemen and women
whose dedication to duty has given us the opportunity to enjoy the freedom
we so dearly cherish.
In the A Flight Noel Pittard posted an impressive forty
points to easily win from Mike Gosden in second place on thirty seven
points. Owen Walkley finished third on thirty six points relegating Tony
Patch with the same score into fourth place.
In the B Flight Ken Bernek compiled thirty seven points
to finish first with Uwe Zuckermann in second place on thirty five points.
Patrice Bardy scored thirty four points to finish third which was applauded
quite generously as he relegated Mike Winfield, who has never used a word
that has sent this scribe to a lexicon, into fourth spot on thirty three
points.
In the C Flight The Admiral Dave Richardson scorched
around the track to hand in a blistering forty one points to take first
place. In second place was the ace, Jean Claude Coulon with forty points
whilst Joe Vanderwegon, who shot thirty nine points, finished third and the
Danish dynamo Jan Lovgreen was fourth.
A Flight (0–15)
1st Noel Pittard (7) 40pts
2nd Mike Gosden (10) 37pts
3rd Owen Walkley (13) 36pts
4th Tony Patch (5) 36pts
B Flight (16-21)
1st Ken Bernek (17) 37pts
2nd Uwe Zuckermann (21) 35pts
3rd Patrice Bardy (18) 34pts
4th Mike Winfield (20) 33pts
C Flight (22-up)
1st Dave Richardson (24) 41pts
2nd Jean Claude Coulon (31) 40pts
3rd Joe Vanderwegon (23) 39pts
4th
Jan Lovgreen (22) 37pts
Nearest the pins went to Noel Pittard B3, Jean Claude
Coulon B8 (hole in one), Ken Bernek C3 and Tony Patch C8. Long putts were
won by Bjarne Kjar on B9 and Chop Daprakhon on C9.
The Coveted Compass Cap was won by Stu Rifkin who
lamented the fact that his putter was colder than Hotfoot’s nose, the
winning lead dog in the 1973 Iditarod Great Sled Race. Stu also had a Heinz
day off the tee with his driver, fifty seven varieties.
Deefa the Dog, who was back in business after a layoff,
was as toey as a Roman sandal to resume his charity donation drive and
dutifully did so. Thanks to all those who donated in the spirit of humanity.
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Moylon hits the right notes at Soi Dao
PSC golf from The Golf Club Sports Bar
Monday, Nov. 8, Green
Valley - Stableford
1st Brian Holden (7) 39pts
2nd Mic Whelan (12) 37pts
3rd
John Emmerson (10) 36pts
Captain Brian was on form today, taking the frame and
some of Sugar Ray’s nosh. His fine 39 points was the day’s best. Mic Whelan
was second on 37 with a great 20 on the way in. Third place was decided by
count-back where John Emmerson came back in 21 to beat out Noel Pittard who
also had a 36 point total.
Hopefully the sanded greens here will get better soon.
Thanks to all for joining us today.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, Soi Dao
Highlands
Blue Tees (Medal)
1st Jon Lay (7) net 75
2nd Brent Merron (9) net 76
White Tees (Stableford)
1st Jason Moylon (10) 39pts
2nd Peter Hynard (14) 38pts
3rd Steve Ellison (15) 37pts
4th Noel Pittard (7) 36pts
5th Ian Rippey 32pts
Yellow/Red Tees (Stableford)
1st Nok Hestor (21) 38pts
Near Pins: #3 Peter Hynard, #5 Steve Snelgrove,
#12 Noel Pittard, # 16 Nok Hestor.
Wow, what a turnout for Soi Dao! No less than 43 players
and 14 friends and guest ventured to the golf resort. We were one golfer
short as one poor chap was hit by a motorbike on 2nd
Road the day before departure.
With this many golfers of varying handicaps and skill
levels, it was decided to have a ‘choose your tee’ competition each day.
Fourteen brave souls took their chances from the tips
with Jon Lay coming out on top with Brendon Merron a close second. 25
players took to the white tees and the scoring was a little closer in this
group: Jayson Moylon was the day’s best on 39 points. The ‘Quiet One, Peter
Hynard was second on 38, Steve Ellison third on 37 and Noel Pittard fourth
on 36pts.
The Yellow/Red comp had 4 players and Nok Hestor was the
winner on this day.
What followed after the golf and eats is what legends are
made of. The karaoke machine was fired up with voices boxes and better
judgment well lubricated. Thankfully no recording machines were around when
the boys decided they would do their “we are the world” renditions. Let’s
just say we were thankful there were only 2 microphones. You can only guess
how day two results would turn out.
Tuesday, Nov. 10, Soi Dao
Highlands
Blue Tees
1st Brent Merron (9) net 75
White Tees (0-14)
1st Jayson Moylon (9) 39pts
2nd Peter Hynard (13) 39pts
3rd John McHugh (7) 36pts
4th Ian Ashenden 36pts
White Tees (15-up)
1st Edward Tregurtha (19) 38pts
2nd Ian Jones (19) 37pts
3rd Barry Tregurtha (18) 36pts
4th Brendon Moylon (17) 33pts
Yellow/Red Tees
1st Brian Prudden (20) 36pts
Near Pins: #3 John McHugh, #5 Jon Lay, #12 Ian Ashenden, #16 Marlene Prudden.
As per day one, today’s comp was ‘choose your tee of
pain’. The Blue Tee comp had only 4 competitors with Brent Merron taking it
with a net 75. The Yellow/Red group remained the same but with a different
winner as Brian Prudden had less wai dang than Nok. He scored a respectable
36 points.
The White Tees were the most popular: 35 players in this
comp so we went with two divisions the top one of which was taken again by
Jayson Moylon with 39 points after beating Peter Hynard on a 21-20
count-back. John McHugh beat out Ian Ashenden on count-back for third.
We had some “bits and pieces” fun as well. The Hidden
Partners draw had a 3 place distribution and was won by Brian Prudden &
Steve Ellison.
For those of us that did not win anything over the 2 days
we had 3 lucky draws. Congrats to Otto Shmid , Bob Newell and Kevin Moraghan.
Next months away trip will be decided very shortly.
Please drop by The Golf Club for more details. Thanks to all that made this
a very fun trip.
Friday, Nov. 12, Greenwood
– Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Rusty Barfield (5) 37pts
2nd John Bang (13) 36pts
3rd Kevin Moraghan (14) 35pts
B Flight (15-up)
1st John Dearden (19) 36pts
2nd Brian Prudden (20) 36pts
3rd
Nok Hestor (21) 36pts
Another great turn out for Greenwood saw us divide the
field into 2 flights. We took on the recently opened C course and the always
challenging A course.
Rusty Barfield was the big winner today. Consistent off
the tee he did not find too much trouble out there. John Bahng was second on
36 points after helping us out at the last minute to be van captain. Thanks
John! Kevin Moraghan came home with 19 points to nip Ian Ashenden by a shot
for third.
John Dearden played well in his last game for a few weeks
and took the B Flight with 36 points. All three places in this frame were
decided by count-back as all had even par rounds.
The course was in great shape and with larger groups the
management is willing to listen to the call for better pricing in high
season. Thanks once again to the 31 that turned out.
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.
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Claude tries a little ‘Harder’ and wins
PSC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday, Nov. 7, Green
Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Claude Harder (12) 38pts
2nd Garry Green (11) 38pts
3rd Jeff Clohessy (11) 37pts
B Flight
1st Keith McLachlan (18) 41pts
2nd Don Lehmer (18) 39pts
3rd Mike Craighead (18) 39pts
Near Pins: No 4 Steve Mulberry, No 9 Yui Bietry,
No 12 Jeff Clohessy, No16 Andrew Byrne.
The player of the day was Keith McLachlan, who outpaced a
host of 39’s with his junior flight award winning 41 points. Right on
Keith’s well-rounded heals were Don Lehmer and Mike ‘The Mechanic’ Craighead
with their twin 39 points. The esteemed gentleman Don Lehmer edged
everybody’s favorite Mike for the silver on the resulting count-back.
Colin
Davis and Claude Harder.
The senior flight provided a first ever win out of
Lewiinski’s for the Swiss golfer Claude Harder. Claude owed his long awaited
win to a count-back over the consistent Garry Green as both posted 38 solid
points. Jeff Clohessy closed the flight a shot adrift.
Mike Holmes, Andrew Byrne, Michael Padilla and Jeremy
Masse shared the ‘2’s pot.
Apologies to ‘The Right Honorable’ Colm Mullen for last
week’s remark (Bleeding Dub) now that I know the true meaning! Shame on you
Seamus.
It is with great sadness that I report the passing away
of a dear friend and fellow gentleman Lewiinski’s golfer Peter ‘Rocky’ Ring.
He will be dearly missed by all golfers everywhere; condolences to Peter’s
family. God Bless and rest in peace.
Tuesday, Nov. 8, Greenwood
– Stableford
A Flight
1st Terry Mangan (13) 39pts
2nd Gavin Knox (11) 37pts
B Flight
1st Gebi Kindle (18) 40pts
2nd
Joe Tynan (31) 35pts
Gebi Kindle showed considerable prowess on the course and
on the legendary greens of Greenwood to notch top place in B-Flight with a
best of the day 40 points. Gebi’s fine round left Joe ‘Sat Nav’ Tynan to
navigate his way to the second place a full five shots back.
The young man from Co. Wicklow, Terry Mangan, attacked
the course with nearly the same fervor, amassing 39 points to win A Flight,
two clear from Gavin ‘The Flying Scotsman’ Knox.
Tommy Jansen, who came up a shot shy for a podium finish
in the senior flight, was the sole winner of a very healthy ‘2’s pot.
Wednesday, Nov. 10, St.
Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Tommy Janson (4) 40pts
2nd Ray Jackson (10) 39pts
3rd Andre Coetzee (9) 39pts
B Flight
1st Colum Mullen (14) 36pts
2nd Reg McKay (12) 34pts
3rd Mike Holmes (13) 33pts
C Flight
1st Gerry Raftery (18) 43pts
2nd Colin Davis (15) 39pts
3rd
Ralf Nielsen (15) 35pts
It portends of a good sized field when the purse is large
enough to pay nine places. Such was the case at this continually popular St.
Andrews club.
Sometimes one has to go to multiple count-backs, and
other times the winners jump right out of the page. It was the latter case
in C Flight today as Co. Galloway’s Gerry Raftery amassed 43 points to take
the man of the match and top rung, followed by Colin ‘the donkey’ Davis with
a rock solid 39 points. Ralf Nielsen claimed the bronze with 35.
The senior flight was won by Tommy Janson with a terrific
40 points, considering his measly four handicap. A three-way tie fought out
the remaining two slots with Ray Jackson, Andre Coetzee and Phil Knight all
a shot back finishing in that order bad luck Phil.
B-Flight threw up a most popular winner in the form of
the forever smiling Irish gentleman Colum Mullen with a fair even par round.
Bukie boy Reg McKay won the silver with 33 points while Mike Holmes
completed the podium places a shot back.
Francis Goyons, Mike Holmes, Ralf Nielsen Ken Blinko
(two) and Jimmy Chawns shared the ‘2’s pot.
Friday, Nov. 12, Mt.
Shadow – Stableford
A Flight
1st Kevin Mcentee (6) 37pts
2nd Francis Goyons (5) 35pts
3rd Clive Farmer (11) 34pts
B Flight
1st Matt Doyle (13) 39pts
2nd Colin Davis (15) 36pts
3rd Laurent Gonnet (16) 35pts
C Flight
1st Jum Karagit (19) 33 pts
2nd Mick Roberts (21) 31pts
3rd
Merle Humphreys (18) 31pts
A good sized field for any season took on the toughest
par 72 layout around Mountain Shadow. The scores on the day reflected the
difficulty of the course that sports the toughest set of par fives. So it
was no surprise to the scribe that the Co Offaly deadly duo decided it was
time to strike and empty the overflowing Lewiinski’s coffers.
The Ring leader Kevin Mcentee struck the first blow,
winning the senior flight with a very creditable 37 points. Francis Goyons
was two shots adrift for the silver and Clive Farmer rounded up the herd a
further shot back.
Matt Doyle, lethal off a thirteen handicap anytime,
finally made his move and took the match honours with a masterful 39 points
in B Flight. It must be pointed out that Kevin and Matt were the only two
competitors to better par on the day. (Does that tell you something?). The
‘donkey’ was well and truly shafted three shots off the pace with an even
par round and Laurent Gonnet was left to close the flight.
The high handicappers in C Flight found it a bit
difficult with Jum ‘The ‘Jomtien Belle’ Karagit gracefully accepting the
flight honours on 33 points. Mick Rudistan gained the silver with a
count-back decision over Merle Humphreys and the unlucky Fergus Obrien.
There were lots of ‘2’s on the day, woth Jean Pierre
Gasser managing to score a brace.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi
1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Any one 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.
Footnote: Sunday, Nov. 21 is the Lewiinski’s
manageress Issaree’s birthday party and everybody is welcome. All being
well, we’ll also be welcoming home ‘The Principal’ Jez Lees who will have
completed his 3.5km cross bay swim. Those who were present the same night 2
years ago will recall with great hilarity the moment another ‘mystery
swimmer’ gate-crashed the party.
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A pair of 44’s are amazing
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday, Nov. 8, Treasure
Hill - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Yukio Kikuchi (22) 38pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer (14) 35pts
3rd Roar Berger (27) 33pts
4th Yasuo Suzuki (10) 32pts
5th Wayne Challis (14) 32pts
6th
Hisahiko Makino (11) 30pts
Playing from the yellow tees the scores were well below
average and therefore it was no surprise to find that the CSS had gone out
to 72 after all the scores were returned. Having not played the course for
some while, it took the field some time to work out that the forward tees
were not an easy ride, as quite a few of them had been set back where the
whites were normally to be found. The scoring for the whole competition
reflected that as the scores on the front nine were around 25% worse than
the inward half.
Joe
Niisato.
But it was all too easy for Yukio Kikuchi who played very
tidily to take the day’s top honour by three clear from Trevor Schirmer in
second place.
Roar Berger slipped into third after missing an easy
two-footer for birdie and then pudding bowling the ensuing efforts for nil
points and leaving the green sadder but wiser.
Yasuo Suzuki just got the better of Wayne Challis in a
count-back for fourth with a better 19 to 18 after going out well over
handicap but then getting the odd hint from playing partner Masami Takagi
and finishing well.
Hisahiko Makino rounded off a good day for the tour with
a sixth place finish and a big smile.
In line with the general difficulty of the course there
were no 2’s in either division.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new members
Gene Kleinfelt and Wayne Challis and also welcomed back Dick Heaney.
Wednesday, Nov. 10,
Greenwood - Stableford
CSS71
1st Joe Niisato (18) 44pts
2nd Wayne Challis (14) 39pts
3rd Paul Stanton (14) 38pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (14) 35pts
5th Mike Lowe (18) 33pts
6th Andy
Winn (17) 32pts
After the hard day’s play during the previous outing it
was to be a much kinder course found just a bit further up the 331as the B
and C layouts were in great condition and the weather continued to stay fine
and dry with a cooling breeze.
Yukio
Kikuchi.
Joe Niisato came out firing on all cylinders and blasted
apart the competition with an equal 22 points on the front and back to claim
his first win out of Soi 13 by five clear from an equally determined but
slightly less successful Wayne Challis, who was playing the course for the
first time and suffered a little in the consequence.
Paul Stanton took third place with a well controlled
round that was extremely steady without any major errors.
Trevor Schirmer again went round in just one over
handicap to claim a second podium placing in the week with his fourth place
result.
Mike Lowe and Andy Winn, both making a final showing on
this trip will return to Oz with some good memories which might include
fifth and sixth places in this competition.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but
Peter Skinner and Wayne Challis shared the first division pool.
Prior to the prize giving Ross Donald and Toni Lonnquist
were welcomed as new members and Peter Skinner, Andy Szarbo and Danny Greer
were welcomed back.
Friday, Nov. 12, Phoenix -
Stableford
CSS 72
1st Yukio Kikuchi (22) 44pts
2nd Chris Knapp (18) 39pts
3rd Peter Skinner (11) 39pts
4th Rod Howett (25) 37pts
5th Grant Cadell (15) 36pts
6th
Ole Stamnes (29) 36pts
For the second time in succession the hopefuls from The
Haven were swept away with an outstanding score, this time returned by Yukio
Kikuchi, of eight under par over the Lakes and Ocean courses at the
immaculate Phoenix layout. Yukio’s round include a run on the first four
holes over the Lakes which garnered 11 points and the first five on the
Ocean nine that collected 14 points and for the rest of the round he just
played very well.
So, job done, first place, leader by five and a second
win in the week, a three shot drop in handicap in readiness for his next
visit and a very happy camper into the bargain.
Chris Knapp as usual put in another solid performance on
what is virtually his home course with his best round for three months and
combined with a better back nine of 20 it was enough to ensure second place
as Pater Skinner could only amass 17 on the inward half with the same score
and therefore had to settle for third.
Rod Howett put in another sub-handicap round and hoped
that it would be sufficient to drop his handicap down another shot.
Grant Cadell and Ole Stamnes headed a group comprising,
Barry Wellings Paul Stanton and Danny Greer who were all on level par, all
of whom received honourable mentions. It was only the size of the field and
the few over 20 handicappers making the mark that prevented the CSS going
down.
With the prize fund bursting at the seams there was still
no winners in the second division 2’s but Paul Stanton, Trevor Schirmer and
once again Peter Skinner shared the first division pot.
Back at The Haven there were welcomes to new members Alan
Kirkley and John Coetzee and a farewell to the tour comprised of Hisahiko
Makino, Masami Takagi and Yukio Kikuchi while their guide Yasuo remains to
work on a few swing tips picked up from Yukio during his trip.
Note: If you would like to play with The Haven
group you can contact mobile 084 782 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.
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Wichai out on his own at Emerald
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar
The Pattaya Golf Society visited The Emerald club in Ban
Chang On Monday, 8th November, to play a stableford event with the field
divided into two flights for the first time in many months - a sure sign
that high season is approaching.
PGS
Champions Paul McNally (Gross) and Richard Bannister (Net) savour the
moment.
The course was not as well presented as on the last visit
as the greens were sadly in need of a cut and were thus slow and unreliable.
Fairways were good however.
With the cut at sixteen and under the field got underway
on time and scoring was not easy on those greens. In the second flight Len
Jones posted 30 points for third place, one behind Belgian golfer Jos
Clerbaut who was runner-up on 31 points. The flight winner was Brian Kelly
and his 34 points was good enough to head the list on a course he always
enjoys.
In the top flight Don Nellis continued his golfing
renaissance with another fine round of 36 points to join Phil Knight in
second place whilst the only sub-par round of the day was recorded by Wichai
Tananusorn, his 37 points giving him a second successive Monday victory. He
also had the honour of recording, with Phil Knight, the best gross of the
day.
The ‘2’s pot was shared by two second flight golfers,
Brian Kelly holing out on the seventh hole, and Carl Lovatt chipping up the
hill and in on the thirteenth.
The Booby Bevy went to the returning Martin Hoblyn for
his low score for the day but he has more opportunities to improve with his
long awaited month’s holiday only just starting - and Emerald was certainly
the place to start.
Favourites recover after
early ‘Hart’ attack
The second week in November is traditionally the occasion
of the Pattaya Golf Society’s Annual Individual Championships and Green
Valley was the host for the two day event on Wednesday 10th and Friday 12th
November. It proved not to be the wisest choice however as the course was
shabbily presented with unfinished dressed greens showing more than a couple
of day’s growth. Members and more experienced golfers in the field could not
remember when it was so bad but the absence of a permanent head greenkeeper
at the complex and a reliance on contracted “amateurs” will not improve the
situation in the foreseeable future.
Having said that the competition was keenly contested and
turned into one of the best in the history of the event. As usual the format
was strictly thirty-six holes strokeplay without the distraction of
technical sideshows and a large field had entered both days.
At the end of the first day in the search for the Net
Champion, Len Jones had joined Paul McNally in third place on 68, one shot
behind Richard “Banjo” Bannister and the first day leader Murray Hart
following his excellent round of 66. The Gross Champion leaderboard showed
favourite Paul McNally six shots ahead of rivals Banjo and Mikael Andersson.
Two days later the optimism of improved conditions for
the final day immediately disappeared when golfers took to the practice
green and found it almost unplayable! Giving it their best shots they found
that scores were inevitably higher with Murray Hart slipping out of the
frame, leaving the top two leaders to fight it out amongst themselves in the
final group.
Despite the valiant efforts of Wichai Tananusorn and
Peter Ditz to force themselves into the picture it was Banjo who took the
initiative with another fine four-under par round to take the second day’s
net competition and finish a with a splendid 36 hole total of net 135.
Paul McNally managed to hang on to his gross lead as he
stuttered to level par to win the main prize. Honours had been shared with
the two best golfers over the two days taking a champion trophy each as well
as a runner-up prize.
The “champagne moments” on the first day were the
performance of lady golfer Ya Riley taking on the men off the white tees,
the performance of Len Jones in the net event and on the second day the
stalwart senior Jack Robertson strolling through his level par round only
two months after a knee replacement operation. Well done for your heroic
efforts Jack! It’s a pity Green Valley could not have put themselves out as
much.
Day 1:
(Division 1)
1st Richard Bannister, net 67
2nd Paul McNally, net 68
3rd Mikael Andersson, net 71
(Division 2)
1st Murray Hart, net 66
2nd Len Jones, net 68
3rd Pat Murphy, net 69
Day 2:
(Division 1)
1st Richard Bannister, net 68
2nd Wichai Tananusorn, net 70
3rd Peter Ditz, net 70
(Division 2)
1st Ronnie Ramsay, net 72
1st Jack Robertson, net 72
3rd Don Nellis, net 73
3rd DaveWilkinson, net 73
Gross Champions:
1st Paul McNally, 150
2nd Richard Bannister 159
Net Champions:
1st Richard Bannister 135
2nd
Paul McNally 140
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You want proof – we got proof
Golf from the Travellers Rest
Barry Hooper
On many a weekend when I am making preparations to lay
down my weekly report on the activities of the TRGG I struggle for an
opening. This was one such occasion. Nothing particularly great stood out re
golf during the week, no secret stories or snippets of info were offered to
me at the nineteenth.
Saturday’s winners: Paul Stanton, Alan Evans, Brendan Moore,
Garry Hookey, Mark Krysl (2’s) and Fergus Brennan.
Then I recollected that I had one player approach me and
say “Baz, thanks for including the piece about me in last week’s report. I
can go home safely now and be sure that people will believe that I was
actually in Pattaya playing golf!”
I mean what else would you come here for?
Mark Krysl is one such player that I know who keeps
cuttings of my reports to take back to the US to show his wife. Well he is
safe this visit for sure because he has had a mention for three weeks on the
trot along with pictures. I also know that many players log on (internet
speak) and look at my writing efforts and then use them as bragging rights
back at their respective clubs when they return home.
So I am sure that the following prose on this week’s
activities should be of great comfort to many a player and ensure that they
will be able to make return visits – to play golf!
Monday, Nov. 8, Greenwood
- Stableford
Div 1
1st Len Commons (11) 36pts
2nd Fergus Brennon (11) 35pts
3rd Brendan Moore (10) 34pts
4th Rusty Barfield (5) 33pts
Div 2
1st Mike Rushant (13) 37pts
2nd Frank Hughes (15) 33pts
3rd Eric Curley (16) 32pts
4th
Richard Dobson (13) 27pts
Monday we visited Greenwood to play the A & C layouts
with eighteen players in two divisions and the course played tough if the
scores are anything to judge by.
The highest score posted was 37 points from Mike Rushant
to take the win in Div 2, followed in by Frank Hughes at 33 for second and
Eric Curley in third on 32.
Div. 1 fared no better with 36 at the top from Len
Commons (lots of new names this week), with the organiser Fergus Brennan
second at 35 (one of his new drivers he recently purchased must be starting
to work) and Brendan Moore, who made the headlines last week, was down on
form and could only manage third on this occasion with 34.
No ‘2’s on the sheet so bell ringing time back at the
presentation.
Tuesday, Nov. 9, Green
Valley - Stableford
Div 1
1st Ian Bell (6) 39pts
2nd Len Commons (11) 37pts
3rd Paul Stanton (13) 32pts
4th Brendan Moore (10) 31pts
Div 2
1st Eric Curley (16) 40pts
2nd Terence Winter (19) 35pts
3rd Chris Parr (15) 31pts
4th
Phil Corbett (27) 30pts
Tuesday saw the group take a trip to Green Valley. I was
advised that the course was found generally in good order and that the
greens were fast, just how they like them it seems. A big turnout on the
day, the weather was good and we had two divisions.
The premier flight had Ian Bell heading the list with 39
points and Len Commons down in second at 37, unable to hold his winning form
from the previous day. In third and five further back was Paul Stanton (more
about him later) at 32.
Div 2 had Eric Curley improve on his previous day’s
efforts with a move to top spot with a great 40-pointer. Terence Winter also
found himself five back at 35 but enough for second place. At 31 was Chris
Parr - I do not expect he thought it was enough for a placing but he was
wrong and third place was his.
Three ‘2’s came from Eric Curley, Brendan Moore and Ian
Bell.
Thursday, Nov. 4, Phoenix
- Stableford
Div 1
1st DarylOttoway (9) 42pts
2nd Barry Welling (5) 39pts
3rd Neil Herd (9) 37pts
4th Ian Bell (18) 37pts
Div 2
1st Hugh Byrne (12) 38pts
2nd Roger Wilkinson (13) 37pts
3rd Ted Senior (20) 35pts
4th Mod Chaviraksa (18) 35pts
Div 3
1st G. Williams (17) 36pts
2nd Jack McNamara (16) 36pts
3rd Mark Krysl (30) 33pts
4th
Laurie Bevan (20) 32pts
It was another of our regular visits to Phoenix on
Thursday to play the Lakes and Ocean layout. A very big group of
thirty-seven made the journey to enjoy the attributes of this great course,
so three divisions were allocated on the day
Division 1 had Daryl Ottoway find form for the win with a
great score of 42 points and the highest of the week. In second was Barry
Welling at thirty-nine, one place up on last week at the same course. Third
was Neil Herd winning on count-back over Ian Bell
The second division had Hugh Byrne topping the list at 38
points with Roger Wilkinson just the one back in second. Third was Ted
Senior (Mr.3 this time) with 35 and that was by way of a count-back win over
Mod Chaviraksa
Division 3 had G. Williams (very formal) win with 36
after a count-back decision from Jack McNamara. Third was Mark Krysl at 33
ahead of Laurie Bevan in fourth who took another count-back verdict over
Paula Byrne. (You are safe now, yet another mention for the Mrs. Mark)
Five ‘2’s all came from different players: Ian Bell and
Len Commons at the second, and Laurie Bevan, Neil Herd and Barry Welling at
the sixteenth
Saturday, Nov. 13, Century
Chonburi - Stableford
Div 1
1st Fergus Brennan (11) 38pts
2nd Brendan Moore (10) 33pts
3rd Mike Rushant (12) 31pts
Div 2
1st Paul Stanton (13) 37pts
2nd Alan Evans (19) 35pts
3rd
Gary Hookey (16) 35pts
A return visit to Century Chonburi today to this very
well priced course, although as previously stated the infrastructure leaves
a lot to be desired. The work on the greens however is staring the show
rewards and they were playing fast and tricky with many obscure slopes to
take into account which made for good golf.
We had a full complement of some twenty six players on
the day so two divisions.
The first division found Fergus Brennan top of the pile
with 38 points. He told me that he is experimenting with several new drivers
recently purchased. He must have made the right choice this time. In second
was Brendan Moore and Mike Rushant took third at 31 after a count-back
decision over Daryl Ottoway.
The second flight did not need any count-back as Paul
Stanton had 37 for the win. (I spoke with Paul after his day out and found
out that he was playing with us at the TRGG for the first time on this visit
and that he heralds from White Rock in British Columbia, Canada. It is
always nice to see new faces amongst the regulars.) Welcome Paul! Alan Evans
was second at 35 points after winning a count-back over Garry Hookey
(19–16).
A solitary ‘2’ came from Mark Krysl (yet another mention
for you Mark) which gave him the full pot to himself.
Note: If you want any further or fuller
information about the golf outings played by the TRGG from the Travellers
Rest Hotel, please contact the hotel manager Tewin Lamthong on 086 056 7019
or just call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at
the notice board or visit our website at www.trgg.biz.
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Beaver Bar turns the tables on local rivals
Beaver Bar v Camel Bar Challenge Trophy
The annual competition between the Beaver Bar and the
Camel Bar in Bang Chang was held at the Emerald Golf Club on Saturday, Nov.
6. A beautiful day with slight breezes made for optimum conditions for this
event.
The
Beaver team captains, Larry and Dennis Willett, pose with the annual
challenge trophy.
Each side fielded 8 two man teams in a Texas scramble
competition. Larry and Dennis Willett captained the Beaver Bar while Rod
Carmichael and Steve Coulson captained the Camel Bar team (The Bang Chang
Golf Society).
Larry Willett, recently returned to the Beaver Bar after
a long illness, also acted as Marshall for the day and announcer on the
first tee for each team. After all teams were started no complaints or
queries arose so Larry stayed on the course urging all the Beaver teams onto
victory.
At the end of the day the final result came down to the
last match being played between Joe St Laurent and Owen Walkley (Beaver) and
Brian Ferringo and Ronnie Coulson (Camel) with the Beaver Bar coming out on
top and winning the trophy by a margin of 5 games to 3.
The after golf festivities were hosted by Larry at the
Beaver Bar and Grill serving southern U.S.A. style food and plenty of iced
cold beer.
The traveling trophy was brought to the Beaver Bar from
the Camel (previous winner) by Rod Carmichael and presented to the Beaver
Bar team and accepted by Larry Willett.
Everyone agreed it was a beautiful day and great
sportsmanship was enjoyed by all. Needless to say next year’s event is being
keenly looked forward to so battle will commence again!
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Duncan delight at Crystal Bay
PJ’s and Soi Khanoi Golf Group
We had two great outings last week: Tuesday saw us at
Eastern Star with our group numbers growing as the new prime season
approaches. Conditions at the course were superb with Willy Nachbur (H/cap
23) the winner again with 34 points and second place going to Ray Bridgeman
(24) with 31points after beating Mike J. (15) on count-back.
Ancillary prizes were won by Dave Clamp, Mike Jackson,
Rusty Archibald, and Willy Nachbur.
On Thursday we were at Crystal Bay with a good turnout
and we found conditions to be perfect for golf – no blazing sun and only a
slight wind (unlike it has been for the past few weeks).
The course was in great shape and it showed by our
winner’s score as Neil Duncan (16) took top spot with 41 points. Second
place went to John (Raddo) Roddis (11) some way back on 33 points with Ray
Bridgeman (24) taking third on 31. Only Ray’s second time out and his second
time to finish in the money!
Technical awards went to Dennis Dunkley, Neil Duncan,
Mike J, and longest putt was claimed by Peter Bohr.
Note: Anyone in the Soi Khanoi area is most
welcome to join our group; you can either sign up at PJ’s Pool Bar on Soi
Khanoi or call Mike Jackson at 087 933 6652 or Dave Clamp at 080 102 8913.
We have two great venues every Tuesday and Thursday.
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Kraft wins again
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
The Three Sisters group went off today, Wednesday 10th of
November, beginning at 0630 at the Pattaya Country Club. Other groups
followed to play in beautiful weather on a course that was in very good
shape.
Wednesday winner Paul Kraft, left, with runner up R. Kevin Worl.
There were several wives playing today and that served to
curb the language when it took four putts to sink the ball. Back at Caddy
Shack II the cards were tallied and snacks and hot dogs were on hand,
furnished by Herbie Ishinaga.
Coming in on top once again was Paul Kraft with a 39
followed by R. Kevin Worl with a 36. From those top scores the numbers
dropped to 32, Larry Emerson, 31 Oiy St. Laurent, and 31 Herbie Ishinaga.
A fun day for all concerned. Come join the group every
Wednesday at the Pattaya Country Club.
Channing makes it a double
PSC golf from the Caddy Shack
Wednesday, Nov. 10,
Greenwood – Stroke
Twelve Caddy Shack golfers took the trip up to Greenwood
to take on this well maintained course off the white tees.
Bernard Channing was the top player today, coming into
the clubhouse with a net 71 off his 23 H/cap. Bernard was followed in by Ian
Covill on net 74 in second and James Savage in third on the same score but
losing the runner-up spot on count-back.
Friday, Nov. 12, Green
Valley - Stableford
A sign of the numbers returning today as we had 24
players for the outing to the home course at Green Valley. The large group
meant we were able to have two flights with the golfers tackling the course
off the white tees.
In the A Flight, AlPhonsie McGhan returned a fantastic 41
points to head the division ahead of Mike Phillips and Jeff North in second
and third respectively.
Scoring was equally good in the second flight as Bernard
Channing recorded his second win of the week with a remarkable 44 points as
both James Savage and Ian Covill returned sub-par rounds to claim the minor
places.
Bernard also secured a ‘2’ along with Jeff North and Ian
Covill
Near Pins went to Jeff North (4th),
Ian Covill (9th) Bernard Channing (12th),
and Vincent Smyth (16th).
A Flight
1st AlPhonsie McGhan (7) 41pts
2nd Mike Phillips (10) 40pts
3rd Jeff North (9) 36pts
B Flight
1st Bernard Channing (23) 44pts
2nd James Savage (20) 40pts
3rd Ian Covill (15) 39pts
Note: The Caddy Shack is situated in Soi 8
Threppasit (follow the soi to the well appointed old English style
hotel/restaurant/bar). We play golf twice a week, Wednesday and Friday until
the punters return then Monday will also be added. We can also arrange golf
outside these days and have a notice board with future venues and an entry
list. Email [email protected] for more information.
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Parker cans an ‘ace’ at Khao Kheow
PSC golf from The Bunker
Monday, Nov. 8, Khao Kheow
- Stableford
A large field headed out to play Khao Kheow, for what for
many would be a practice round, ahead of the upcoming John Preddy Memorial
tournament to be held there on the 24th November. The
course was in good condition and the weather excellent so a great day’s golf
was enjoyed by all.
Geoff
Parker shares the bell ringing duties with Lily.
The highlight of the day was Geoff Parker scoring an
‘ace’ on the signature hole (B8 the island green), almost exactly a year to
the day since his previous hole in one. This was Geoff’s 3rd
hole in one in the last 3 years, but he was heard to say that’s enough now –
it’s an expensive pastime!
Back at the Bunker Bar the hole in one fund was emptied
to softening the blow of buying drinks for all the competitors – well done
Geoff!
A Flight
1st Phil Moore (12) 36pts
2nd JJ Harney (11) 34pts
3rd Tony Berry (11) 33pts
B Flight
1st Reg Smart (26) 33pts
2nd Laurence Harding (17) 32pts
3rd John Hughes (17) 31pts
Near Pins: Laurence Harding, Roy Dayton, Tony
Berry, and Geoff Parker (Hole in One).
Wednesday, Nov. 10,
Greenwood - Stableford
We picked a busy day for Greenwood with 3 other golf
societies ahead of us, and it felt like the high season had arrived early,
as we experienced our first 5-hour round for quite some time.
It’s not difficult to see why the course is so popular
since the green fee is competitive (unlike Phoenix, which we will not be
visiting until the green fee returns to a reasonable level) and the course
is in excellent condition.
The best performance of the day was from Roy Dayton,
making a rare appearance on the podium, after scoring an excellent 39
points. Tony Scambler, playing only his second game since returning to
Pattaya, won the A Flight with 37 points after beating Tony Berry on a
count-back.
A Flight
1st Tony Scambler (10) 37pts
2nd Tony Berry (11) 37pts
3rd Phil Moore (13) 36pts
B Flight
1st Roy Dayton (23) 39pts
2nd Peter Habgood (17) 33pts
3rd Reg Smart (26) 32pts
Near Pins: Roy Dayton, Eddie Graham, Geoff Hart, and Paul Edgar.
Friday, Nov. 12, The
Emerald - Stableford
After sorting out confusion with our booking and
negotiating a reduced green fee for the large field of players, we set out
for what was to prove an excellent day’s golf.
Some players complained about the greens being bumpy and
fluffy, but it didn’t affect Gordon Melia carding a superb 41 points to take
the honours. The day was made complete for the Melia family with Marion
taking third place in the B Flight and after the customary beers at the
Bunker, the happy couple headed off to find a restaurant with an adequate
supply of champagne.
Nile Sheehan won the B Flight with 37 points despite
scoring blanks on the last 2 holes – or was it handicap management?
A Flight
1st Gordon Melia (13) 41pts
2nd Tony Robbins (13) 38pts
3rd Tony Berry (11) 37pts
B Flight
1st Nile Sheehan (23) 37pts
2nd John Hughes (17) 35pts
3rd Marion Melia (19) 35pts
Near Pins: Phil Moore, Neil Jones and Gerry Cooney (2).
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Pattaya Sports Club
Bowling League
200 Bowlers: Dang & Kran.
Green Tree only managed a two-two split against Sabai
Friday, but after Café Kronborg lost three points it was enough to propel
them into second place and one half point ahead of Café Kronborg. Noodle
Russell was best for Green Tree with a 513 series.
First place VFW Post 9876 continued their winning ways
again this week with a three point win over the USMC team.
Brother D won three points from Café Kronborg with all of
their bowlers bowling well. Sak led the way with a 561 series, Dang Downs
had a 204 game, 529 series and Antero Ronkainen had a 503. Café Kronborg
bowled well, but not good enough, with Kran Nielsen getting back in form
with a 214 and a 210 game, 565 series and Sue Murphy bowled a 509.
Canada won all four points from Bavaria and Jack Tar took four from House
of the Golden Coin. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 520 series for Jack Tar.
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Results & Standings Nov. 12 (week 22)
Pos. Team Score
Standings
1 VFW Post 9876 3 - 1 64 - 24
2 Green Tree 2 - 2 49.5
- 38.5
3 Café Kronborg 1 - 3 49 - 39
4 Brother D 3 - 1 47.5
- 40.5
5 Canada 4 - 0
47 - 41
6 Sabai Friday 2 - 2 41 -
47
7 House of the Golden Coin 0 - 4 39 - 49
8 USMC 1 - 3
37 - 51
9 Bavaria 0 - 4
35 - 53
10 Jack Tar
4 – 0 31 - 57 |
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