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Former Thai national women’s team coach takes over Pattaya United

Pattaya United managing director, Sombat Pinyasiri (right) welcomes Chatuporn Pramonban (left), new head coach of the Pattaya United White Dolphins.

Phasakorn Channgam

Chatuporn “Jun” Pramonban, former coach of the Thai National Women’s Football Club, has been named the new head coach for the Pattaya United team.

Just back from taking his women’s squad to the 16th Asian Games, Chatuporn said he’s excited to take over the White Dolphins during a Dec. 9 press conference at United’s Third Road headquarters. Former Coach Thawatchai Damrongongtrakul has taken a job managing the Police Department ‘Eagles’ football team.

Chatuporn said he hoped his experience will propel the Pattaya team to its highest level. The squad finished sixth last season in the Thai Premier League.

He said he has already met with management to discuss purchasing new players to shore up the team’s left wing. He said foreign players would be welcome, but they had to be committed to playing hard for Pattaya.

United Managing Director Sombat Pinyasiri acknowledged the Pattaya squad has been through a number of head coaches, but that he felt he’d now gotten the right man for the job. Chatuporn’s experience with the national team, Kasikorn Bank’s team and his work with other famous coaches will help the Pattaya team rise above its past finishes, Sombat predicted.


Almost a clean sweep for the Blarney Boys

Phoenix Tuesday/Friday Group

Mike Gerrard

Tuesday, Dec. 17, Phoenix - Stableford

A depleted field of players started on the Mountain and Lake course this week and what a beautiful day it was.

After our game we gathered at the Relax Bar for our usual little soiree where I thought the scoring was quite low, until the last few cards came in. As the headline states, the Irish boys nearly cleaned us out. They would have done if I had not managed to save a small amount for a fourth place to get one of the other nationalities into the frame.

So it was ‘Big’ John Bartley who showed us all the way with a fine 41 points to take the honours. In second place was Patrick Browne with 36 points and in third was Hugh Byrne with 35.

Peter Harris came in with 33 points to take fourth place. Peter has had a lean time lately and it is nice to see he is back on form. His golf has been a little suicidal lately and he went to the library to get a book on how to commit suicide, but they told him they did not have one. No one ever brought them back.

Back to the serious stuff, near pins went to Jim Neilson (2), Dennis Dixon & Shaun Merriman. It had taken Jim Neilson 4 weeks to get used to playing off grass again and just as he has done so he has to go back to Kuwait and sand courses. Hurry back Jim - great company and it was a business doing pleasure.

Lucky draw prizes including 1 free massage and 1 free drink, courtesy of our hosts the Relax Bar went to Mike Gerrard, Clive Robinson, Arthur Barrett, Stuart Gordon and Landis Brooks.

Both our days are at Phoenix (Tuesday & Friday) are at around 12.00 noon each week and any non Phoenix Golf Club members who would like to join can enjoy a reduced green fee of 1,000 baht as a guest of any of the members. Phoenix members pay their normal fees. Call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565 for more information.


Montgomery has a great week

PSC golf from The Golf Club Sports Bar

Monday, Dec. 13, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Allan Thomas (6) 37pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (16) 36pts
3rd Grant Momtgomery (8) 35pts
4th Mike Allidi (3) 35pts

We welcomed back some familiar faces this week and the field was on form with no less than 7 people tied on 35 points. Allan Thomas took the frame with a fine 37 points while Suzi Lawton was back in the winners’ circle for the second week on the trot with 36. Grant Montgomery, Mike Allidi, David Shelton, John Emmerson, Bob Finley, Jim Ryan and Tom Breslin were all locked on 35 points. Montgomery had a back nine 19 to take third spot and Mike Allidi had 17 to finish fourth.

Wednesday, Dec. 15, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Grant Montgomery (8) 36pts
2nd Brad Sproxton (12) 36pts
3rd Peter Barathy (12) 35pts

Grant continued in fine form to take the frame today at Khao Kheow. Speedy greens and high winds separated the top 3 from the rest of the bunch. Brad Sproxton had a back nine 17, but a blob on the last hole cost him and he had to settle for second. Peter Barathy was third on 35 points.

Khao Kheow remains a popular destination and is in good nick at the moment.

Friday, Dec. 17, Phoenix – Stableford
1st Peter Hynard (14) 40pts
2nd Andy Leach (5) 38pts
3rd Grant Montgomery (8) 37pts

The “Quiet One” Peter Hynard had some great shots and a little bit of luck thrown in to take top spot today. We started on Ocean and finished with Mountain and Hynard was out in 21 and home with 19.

Andy Leach played a steady 19/19 split for second place on 38 points and Mr. Consistent, Grant Montgomery, completed the week in the frame one more time with 37 points.

Phoenix played tough for the rest on the field with the average scores around 32 points.

Thanks to all that joined us this week, we are planning a return trip to Kabin Buri on Jan 4 & 5.

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.


Dangle starts to shine at Emerald

The Backyard Golf Society

Dangle celebrates his win with the staff at Mama’s Bar.

After a busy couple of weeks for myself I will now try to catch-up with what has been happening with the Backyard Golf Society. Thanks to Terry C doing the write-up last week and here are the results for the 10th of December.

Allan B took the game with 34 points and Dangle finished runner up and also collected the nearest the pin prize as well. A total surprise in the skins, even with John Mac checking the scorecards at least five times, as Bob G (6), Micky (5), John Mac (3), Bernie (3) and JJ (1) carved up the loot.

On to the 17th of December and Dangle, finally reaping the benefit of having a pitch and putt course in the back garden, took the game with 38 points knocking the old man into second with a 36.

Neville had yet another lucrative week with the nearest the pin prize and (10) skins. Other skin results are as follows: Dangle (3), John Mac (3), Dan M (1) and Terry C (1).


John Murdoch earns back to back wins

PSC golf from the Caddyshack

Wednesday, Dec 15, Phoenix – Stableford

Twenty-two players teed it up off the whites at Phoenix on Wednesday in two separate flights.

Friday’s B Flight winner Brian Orr.

Headline boy John Murdoch took out the premier flight with 38 points on a count-back over Geoff Couch. Alphonsie McGahan came in third some four points adrift.

Ramsay Smith was top man in the B flight with 37 points to finish two up on second placed Rich Culley with Richard Stedman securing third spot on 31.

There were no ‘2’s in either division.
A Flight
1st John Murdoch (12) 38pts
2nd Geoff Couch (11) 38pts
3rd Alphonsie McGahan (6) 34pts
B Flight
1st Ramsay Smith (18) 37pts
2nd Rich Culley (16) 35pts
3rd Richard Stedman (13) 31pts
Friday, Dec 17, Green Valley – Stableford

A good sized group of twenty-five players took up the challenge of Green Valley on Friday off the white tees.

Again John Murdoch rose to the top with a flight winning 38 points to pip Mark Williams and Alphonsie McGahan by a single point in the A flight.

Brian Orr was the top scorer of the day with 39 points to win the B flight ahead of Ian Covill and Derek Mower.

Two ‘2’s were recorded by Arch Armstrong, Ian Covill.

A Flight
1st John Murdoch (12) 38pts
2nd Mark Williams (6) 37pts
3rd Alphonsie McGahan (6) 37pts
B Flight

1st Brian Orr (13) 39pts
2nd Ian Covill (14) 38pts
3rd Derek Mower (24) 37pts

Note: The Caddyshack is located on Soi 8 Threppasit Road. If you wish to join us for a day of golf please email [email protected]


Stuvik takes 2010 Asian Formula Renault Championship title

Sandy Stuvik displays the 2010 Asian Formula Renault Championship trophy after finishing 89 points ahead of his compatriot, nearest rival and Asia Racing Team teammate Tin Sritrai.

This month witnessed a huge victory for all motorsport fans in the Kingdom as 15 year old Thai racing driver Sandy Stuvik from Rayong finally became the champion of Asian Formula Renault 2010. Sandy sealed the championship at Zhuhai International Circuit in China on the evening of 12 December with a total score of 286 points, 89 points more than the second placed driver.

Although Sandy had already mathematically won the championship in the previous round, it was not until this weekend in China that he could officially claim the title. And he finished the last two races in grand champion’s style, taking a second place and a dominant victory in the final round.

Being only 15 years old, he is the youngest champion in Asian Formula Renault history and is also the only driver who managed to finish on the podium in every one of the 14 races this season. In addition, Sandy was an important key to pushing Asia Racing Team (ART) to win the team Championship as well.

Sandy’s French coach, Philippe Descombes, a former European F3 champion, said of his prot้g้: “Of course the team is very proud of winning the title. I have to say that I am pretty happy with the development of Sandy this season, we had some nice pole positions and great fights as well. In Shanghai he competitively raced against drivers much more experienced than him and beat them. Sandy’s success is that he is very consistent on track and rarely makes mistakes, which allows him to finish all his races with good points.”

Descombes continued, “The 2011 EuroCup and European racing in general will definitely be the way to go for Sandy, despite his young age. I am pretty sure that Sandy will adapt quickly and learn from this field, of course testing and learning new tracks will be very important for him. I do really hope that Sandy will get the necessary support and finance to race in Europe, he deserves it very much.”

Following his final races Sandy said: “First of all I would like to thank everyone for all the encouragement and support from Thailand. I am very proud to be Thailand’s first Asian Formula Renault Champion. I would like to promote Thailand as much as I can.

“F1 is my goal. I hope to be competing in the Euro Cup next year. That would be a great challenge for me, since some of the most talented racing drivers in the world are competing in this series. I can’t wait to race with them. I will be testing at the Catalunya circuit in Spain next week in preparation for the 2011 EuroCup season. I am very grateful to my sponsors The Pizza Company, Dacon Inspection Services and TV SD PSB for their support through the season and through my career – without them this championship victory would not have been possible.”

Sandy has lately been receiving many offers to race in USA, Australia and Europe. He has already tested with one of the top European racing teams at the Spa-Francorchamps and Nurburgring Circuits.

Sandy is a resident of Rayong and Year 10 student at the Garden International School. To get the Doc’s comments on Sandy Stuvik’s amazing season turn to Automania

Sturvik puts car No 15 through its paces at the Zhuhai International Circuit in China, December 12, 2010.


Big freeze puts Jimmy White exhibition on hold

Due to the adverse and unforeseen weather conditions that have affected flights and travel in and out of London’s Heathrow Airport this past week, snooker legend Jimmy White’s scheduled exhibition matches at the Hot Shots Pool Hall on Pattaya 2nd Road, due to have taken place on Monday, Dec. 20 and Tuesday, Dec. 21, have had to be postponed until early next year.

An announcement will be made soon once revised dates can be arranged for the exhibition to take place so make sure to keep reading the Pattaya Mail sports pages for regular updates.


United wing wizard signs shirts for charity

Steve Coppell gets busy with his pen.

Christina Boden, right, on behalf of the Charity Club of Pattaya,
receives a signed football shirts from Kim Fletcher.

On a recent visit to Pattaya, ex Manchester United and England forward Steve Coppell enjoyed an evening at Jameson’s the Irish Bar before signing a batch of football shirts to be given away to local charities as auction items. One of the recipients of such a shirt was Christina Boden of the Charity Club of Pattaya who was presented with the item by Jameson’s host Kim Fletcher.


Preparations underway for 2011 PTT Pattaya Open at Dusit Thani Pattaya

Chatchawal Supachayanont (center, left), general manager of Dusit Thani Pattaya and his hotel management team welcome Geoffrey Rowe (center, right), Pentangle Promotions tournament director.

Preparatory meetings have been held between Pentangle Promotions and Dusit Thani Pattaya for the 2011 PTT Pattaya Open.

For 20 years now, the Asian leg of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour has been held at the resort hotel and for the year 2010, the PTT Pattaya Open was voted by WTA players as the Tournament of the Year, besting 32 other tournaments that complete the WTA Tour.

In their comments, the players said they enjoyed the unique experience in Pattaya during the entire tournament, the relaxing ambience at the resort and that the welcoming hospitality and service of the hotel management and staff impressed them greatly.

Dusit Thani Pattaya management, led by general manager, Chatchawal Supachayanont, met with tournament director Geoffrey Rowe and his team to discuss preparations as well as new programs for the 2011 PTT Pattaya Open.

The first press conference will be held in Bangkok on January 7, 2011 while the Pattaya press conference will be held on February 6 in the Napalai Convention Hall at the Dusit Thani Pattaya.

Participating players expected to compete this year include Ana Ivanovic (ranked 17th), Thailand’s tennis superstar Tamarine Tanasugarn and world #2 Vera Zvonareva, who won the 2010 title.

Next year’s programs include the hotel’s welcome party, children’s home visit, coral planting, a boat trip and tennis clinic for kids, among others.

For more information on the PTT Pattaya Open 2011, please visit the official website: www.pentanglepromotions.com


It’s Colm’s column

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday’s winners (from left): Kevin Mcentee,
 Jum Karagit, Jim Bell and Colm Mullen.

Sunday, Dec. 12, Green Valley - Monthly Medal

A Flight
1st Colm Mullen (14) net 66
2nd Kevin Mcentee (7) net 68
3rd Ian Halfpenny (14) net 69
B Flight
1st Jim Bell (21) net 68
2nd Colin Davis (15) net 69
3rd Stefan Hoge (15) net 72
Red Flight
1st Jum Karagit (17) net 71

Near Pins: No 4 Lindsay Semple, No 9 Andy Leach, No 12 Jean-Pierre, No 16 Jim Bell.

If it escaped notice, and little does escape the notice of the eagle-like eye of this column’s readership, one would have spotted that last week’s report on Tuesday the 7th of December was a duplicate result of Wednesday 17th of November. It was a mistake for which I apologize to all concerned, especially to those who suffered wrong full handicap reductions. It seems that the PSC received the same results as I did!

Tradition shows that the monthly medal winner usually grabs the headlines; it’s not guaranteed mind you. This week’s hero who is a much respected member of Clontare golf club in County Dublin, Ireland (but he is defiantly not a Dub!) and being a wise young Irishman clearly knew that a couple of beers for the scribe would make it a sure thing. (And you thought FIFA was corrupt).

Colm did his chances no harm as he fashioned a masterful net 66 to keep the Offaly Gang leader Kevin off the top of the podium. Ian ‘lose change’ Halfpenny’s practice at the driving range proved a wise decision as he accepted the bronze via a count-back win over the luckless Reg ‘Bukie boy’ McKay

The minor flight was won by Jim ‘Houdini’ Bell’s excellent net 68. ‘The Donkey’, never far away, carted off the silver a shot back as Stefan Hoge’s even par round was good for the bronze.

The red flight winner Jum Karagit took the flight and if not already qualified joins Colm in the gold Medal in January.

Kevin Mcentee was the Low Gross winner.

Colum Mullen and Kevin Mcentee, who seem to make a habit of adding a ‘2’ to their winnings, along with Jean- Pierre Gasser with a brace and a bunch of others just about got their money back.

The society wishes Colm and Kevin a safe journey home, as they leave this week to spend Christmas with their families, well most of them!

Monday, Dec. 13, The Emerald – Stableford
A Flight
1st Colin Davis (15) 36pts
2nd Eddy Beilby (14) 36pts
B Flight
1st Joe Tynan (29) 37pts
2nd Morton Esseth (20) 45pts

Hey up, the kid himself Joe ‘SatNav’ Tynan has done it again, in a display that saved it from being a non counting day. Joe put together a match and B Flight winning 37 points. That left second place to Morten Esseth a couple of strokes astray.

The big boys flight was a battle that went down to the wire old mates: Colin ‘The Donkey’ and Eddy ‘The Eagle’ both shot steady even par rounds - no prizes for guessing the outcome of the resulting count-back.

Hans Erti and Sell Revels split the ‘2’s pot

Wednesday, Dec. 15, Silky Oak – Stableford
A Flight
1st Tore Eliassen (14) 38pts
2nd Ed Wyckoff (10) 36pts
3rd Gavin Knox (11) 35pts
B Flight
1st Jim Bell (21) 38pts
2nd Morten Esseth (20) 37pts
3rd Albert McEvoy (14) 36pts

The land of smiling golfers’ just became a little better, if that is possible, with the addition of Silky Oak Golf Course. The gang braved navigational challenges and a fledgling course and caddy staff to award the newest addition to the Eastern Seaboard the thumbs’ up.

Certainly not complaining about the difficulty were fine players Tore Eliassen and Jim ‘Houdini’ Bell who both carded 38 points to win their flights on the day. (Or so I have been led to understand). Ed ‘The Right Honorable’ Wyckoff followed Tore home in the senior flight while Gavin ‘the flying Scotsman’ achieved the unthinkable, relegating the Donkey to the also-rans in a count-back.

Morten Esseth polished of the silver, with Peter the President going the same way as the Donkey in a tie with the consistent Mike Jeffery’s.

The Donkey, never to be out done, did manage a ‘2’along with Matt Andrews and Vera Naughton.

Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.


The week before Christmas

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday’s winners: Rocky Jones, Nigel Ward and Rodney Becket.

Barry Hooper

It was the night before Christmas and all was quiet in the house. Now I am sure there is something wrong with that. Ah I know what it is, it should read, “It was the ‘week’ before Christmas and all was quiet at the Travellers Rest.” Well it certainly seemed that way. Our numbers were down a little this week with lots of our regulars returning home for the coming festivities and nothing very outstanding on the play front to really comment on.

There was probably a little more snow than some of them really wanted to go back to, certainly as far as the UK is concerned, and probably wishing they had stayed in the warmth of Payatta. But even that has been a bit cool this week. Well the Thais seemed to think so judging by the amount of coats and hats being worn.

Anyway here is a more detailed report on the weeks play from the TRGG.

Monday, Dec. 13, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Llew Mathews (2) 35pts
2nd Ito Akitoshi (9) 31pts
3rd Ben Durham (10) 29pts
Div. 2
1st Nigel Ward (16) 34pts
2nd Joe Peters (18) 33pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (13) 28pts

Monday was a visit to Mountain Shadow with just two divisions of play. The course must have played tough judging by the scores.

A lot of new names in the frame yet again with Llew Mathews taking Div 1 with his 35 points and Nigel Ward Div 2 with 34. Regular player Ito Akitoshi was second home in Div 1 with 31 and it was down to 29 for third spot with Ben Durham taking the count-back over Neil Wilkinson 14 to 13 on the back nine.

Div 2 found Joe Peters second at 33 and it was down to 28 this time for third from Roger Wilkinson.

Three ‘2’s came from Alun Webber, Roger Wilkinson and Ted Lodge

Tuesday, Dec. 14, Khao Kheow – Stableford
1st Brendan Moore (11) 39pts
2nd Llew Mathews (2) 38pts
3rd Neil Bramley (8) 37pts
4th Richard Dobson (15) 37pts

Tuesday saw us take on Khao Kheow C&A with a moderate attendance number so only one division. The course was in great condition and an excellent day’s play resulted with some pretty good scoring.

The highest score was posted by Brendan Moore with 39 points while second and just the one back was Llew Mathews at 38, followed in by Neil Bramley and Richard Dobson at 37 with Neil edging the count-back by one

Four ‘2’s were recorded by Llew Mathews (2) and one each from Rocky Jones and Alan Thomas.

Thursday, Dec. 16, Phoenix - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Rocky Jones (7) 38pts
2nd Mike Rushant (11) 37pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (10) 37pts
Div. 2
1st John Dalseng (21) 38pts
2nd Jack McNamara (19) 38pts
3rd Roger Wilkinson (13) 34pts

Thursday was another of our regular visits to Phoenix, this time to play the Ocean & Mountain layout. A good group of some 24 made the journey to enjoy the attributes of this great course so two divisions.

Division 1 had Rocky Jones find a flash of real form for the win with his 38 points. Second was Mike Rushant with 37 along with Fergus Brennan on the same score but losing the count-back.

Division 2 had John Dalseng topping the list with 38 points, Jack McNamara second, also at 38 but losing on count-back again, and Roger Wilkinson in third with 34 after knocking Ted Senior out of the funds by the same count-back method.

Two ‘2’s came from Jack McNamara and Brendan Moore.

Saturday, Dec. 18, Greenwood - Stableford
1st Rocky Jones (7) 36pts
2nd Nigel Ward (16) 35pts
3rd Rodney Becket (16) 33pts
4th Fergus Brennan (9) 33pts

Saturday saw a return to Greenwood to take on the C & A course which was found yet again in good condition. Lots of players had already returned home for Christmas so there was just the one division and places to fourth.

Rocky Jones made it two wins in three days, coming home with 36 points to finish one ahead of Nigel Ward in second. Third and fourth places went to a count-back decision between Rodney Becket and Fergus Brennan, both at 33, and going in favour of Rodney.

Only the one ‘2’ today and that was from Rodney Becket.

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


Chonburi Games draws to a close with much fanfare

Staff Reporters

The 39th National Games, hosted this year by Chonburi Province, came to a colourful and spectacular conclusion at the Chonburi Sports Arena last Sunday, Dec. 19 with a large firework display, numerous parades and the ceremonial handing over of the national games flag to next year’s hosts, Khon Kaen.

Ayutthaya Watchara Sondee pays respects to the crowd after winning the men’s 100m race.

For the best part of two weeks, the whole of the Chonburi region was wrapped up in sporting fervor as the nation’s top athletes gathered in the province to do battle in 39 separate disciplines with a total of 566 gold medals up for grabs.

In the final reckoning it was the favourites Bangkok who finished top of the medal table despite losing a number of its star athletes to the host province prior to the commencement of the tournament. This included star swimmer Natthanan Jankrajang, who won nine golds this year, and gymnast Tharathip Sridee.

The final medal count saw Bangkok with 112 gold, 106 silver, and 119 bronze medals, Chonburi in second place with 83 gold, 72 silver, and 73 bronze medals, and Supanburi taking third spot on 67 golds. The fourth province was Trang with 22 gold, 11 silver, and 21 bronze medals. Satun, Loei and Samut Singkhram were the only provinces to fail to garner a medal of any description during the games while ten other provinces also failed to capture a single gold medal.

A female beach volley ball player gets ready to serve.

Chonburi municipality and the province as a whole was said to have spent some 42 million baht on hosting the games which proved to be a great success and attracted a large number of athletes, support staff and their fans to the Eastern Seaboard for the duration of the event. The province had originally targeted some 60 gold medals after finishing in a disappointing fifth place at the 2009 games in Trang. To finish with 83 golds was considered a vindication of all the hard work and effort put in by the local sports men and women over the past 12 months.

During the final closing ceremony, Chonburi Sports Association President, Sonthaya Khunploem paid tribute to the athletes and teams who had taken part and also to the general public who had turned out in large numbers at all the events to enthusiastically cheer on their sporting heroes.

As the games torch was being extinguished for the final time, the national flag was passed by National Sports Association governor, Kanokphan Jullakasem to Khon Kaen province governor, Sombat Triwatsuwan and former national football player Kiatisak Senamuang (Zico) who is also a resident of Khon Kaen. The 40th National Games is due to take place in the Isaan province in November next year.

Trivadee Yongphan, center, from Suphanburi province, took the gold in the women’s 400 meter track race. Here she poses with the second and third placed athletes.

Yutthapob Pakpot from the Chantaburi Team concentrates on a snooker shot on his way to beating his Saraburi opponent 4:0.

Bangkok (far court) jump to block the ball against Ayutthaya
in the women’s volleyball event.

The ballroom dancers strut their stuff.

A smart looking trio waits to hand out games mascots to winning athletes.

The lady bodybuilders wai (salute) the audience during the final round of competition at the Central Beach shopping mall in Pattaya.

The cycle road race was grueling work in the hot temperatures.

Action from the swimming pool.

Dancers in traditional costumes perform prior to the firework display.

A parade of flag bearers during the closing ceremony.


Wendy’s new driver pays off

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Wendy Chetland, flanked by son Jack and husband Tony.

Tuesday, Dec. 14, The Emerald – Stableford

Tuesday was our monthly visit to Emerald, Ban Chang where the course is currently in good condition, with the greens rolling nicely and holding the well hit shot.

Wendy Chetland (H/cap 31) has been waiting on delivery of her new Mizuno driver, and with a recent visitor bringing it over to her she was primed for a good round. Well the club and the player came good, scoring a (so far) season high 36 points, just being edged into second place on a count-back 20/19 by the consistent Jeff Wylie (7). The final podium spot went to Dave Edwards (14) who returned 35 points, which could have been better other than for a disappointing finish to his round.

Near pins were secured by Roger and Mam, with Dave getting both the back 9 approaches. Count-backs are a common occurrence with all competitions and as such require a consistent policy of implementation. At Mulligans Lakeside we refer to the back 9, followed by the last 6, then to the last 3, should refinement be required.

Thursday was a visit to Greenwood, but circumstances combined to not give us sufficient numbers for a comp, however the course was in great condition & not many players meant a nice smooth round.

Wendy Chetland again showed her skills with the new driver picking up the Ladies Long Drive prize at the PSC Tournament held at Greenwood on Friday.

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 089 094 1841 or 081 935 8088. Hope to see you there, Cheers & Good Golfing!


Santa delivers the goods at Baan Jing Jai Scramble

After a very short gestation period which started on the 20th November with the children’s party at The Haven, the first Santa Scramble got off to a very good start as the weather turned out just perfect for golf. With the management at Green Valley assisting, the tee-off was exactly on time at 8.20 with almost a full complement of teams after some last minute adjustments had to be made by what was left of the registration team, which was Russell Exley, the rest of them already having teed off earlier.

As the day progressed the skies remained overcast with a slight to medium wind and with the course being presented and playing very well, everyone had a great day’s golf whether they were among the prize winners or not.

50/50 winner Rodney Hayes.

With a maximum of five tee shots for each team member the system allows all levels to compete in what is designed primarily to be a fun tournament which everyone can join and enjoy with the real winners being the children.

The standard of scoring was exceptionally high as might be expected with the course being as near to a home course, as one gets in Thailand, to many of the contestants and therefore holding few surprises for them.

The divisions were split at 8.8 and below for the first division and 8.9 and above for the second division.

The first division was led in with a winning gross score of 61, followed by another gross 61 and third place went to a gross 65. The difference between first and second being the size of the team handicap which had been set at 12.5 % of the total playing handicaps without a cap on the final figure.

The second division was just as competitive although the scoring was a little higher at 65 gross for the winners, 66 for second place and 67 for third.

After the rounds were completed the teams repaired to The Haven where the usual fine buffet was provided which kept most of the players busy until the final analysis of the scores was completed and the prizes presented.

Whilst waiting for the presentations some of the children from the home sang a few Christmas carols to entertain the audience and received a very warm reception both before and after the performance.

Whilst golf was the main attraction of the earlier part of the day, the whole concept was to use the tournament to focus on the raising of funds for the children of the Bann Jing Jai Orphanage which has some 70 children under its care and exists solely on the good will and donations of private individuals and charitable donations from organizations throughout the year, with the final objective being to supply every child at the home with a Christmas present of their choice with a target of 70,000 baht to achieve that end.

Prior to the presentations there were special thanks to some of those who had assisted in setting up and organizing the day and sold tickets for the lucky draw. These included Roy Thornton, Russell Exley and Jim Farmer together with all those who donated in any way whatsoever to the cause.

After winning the main prize in the 50/50 draw Rodney Hayes blew the horn to buy everyone a celebratory drink with which to toast the children and the days success.

Following the draw for the 50/50 prizes the final total for the day was revealed. It was 184,000 baht for the Baan Jing Jai Santa Appeal made up as follows: Golfing activities of the day - 47,500 baht; 50/50 Draw - 72,500 baht; and donations - 68,000 baht.

Following the disclosure of this figure, one very generous donor made the sum up to a round 200,000 baht. This ensures that the children will not only get their Christmas presents together with some school and casual clothing but leave monies in hand to support other needs of the home and children during the coming year.

Whilst not wishing to exclude but also not mentioning any individual, many who gave very generously either through the 50/50 draw or directly into the donations fund, it is right to give credit to those commercial sponsors who helped to make this such a successful day. These were Rayong Green Valley Country Club, Click Golf, and Hot Shots Pattaya, together with The Haven who sponsored the buffet and Children’s Party.

Next year’s drive for funds starts on January 1st 2011.

Division 1

1st Richard Bannister, Wichai Tanasusorn, Peter Ditz, Tim Lazecki (6.9) net 54.1
2nd Roy Thornton, Barry Traynor, Jeremy Masse, Leslie Cobban (5.5) net 55.5
3rd Bob Lamond, Evan Millar, Stuart Thompson, Phil Knight, (5.8) net 57.2

Division 2
1st Dave Spendley, Paul Smets, Al Rolnik, David Dines (8.8) net 56.2
2nd Joe McArdle, Alec Hoare, Richie Martin, Matt Andrews (9.0) net 57.0
3rd Rodney Hayes, Trevor Schirmer, Mark Armstrong, Tom McCarthy (8.9) net 58.1

Technical Prizes: Rampai Chaisuwan, Shuichi Kodaka, Jeremy Masse, Alec Hoare, John Mullins, Richard Bannister, Richie Martin, Klaus Schackt (2), Tom McCarthy, Bob Lamond, Joe Peters, Michael Dige, Alec Hoare, Mike Hill, Richard Bannister, Rampai Chaisuwan, Margaret Wilkinson.

50/50 Draw Winners
1st Rodney Hayes
2nd Andy Pedlar
3rd Wayne Ogonoski
4th Dave Howden


Wichai dominates at Green Valley

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

A large group of Pattaya Golf Society golfers gathered at Green Valley on Monday, 13th December to play a stableford competition in two flights with the cut coming at a very healthy 14 and under.

The second flight saw the form players holding sway with Jean Morel posting 35 points for third whilst Ronnie Ramsay and Tim Lazecki shared the win with 37 points each.

In the top flight Mark West celebrated his final round this trip with a fine level par effort to share third place with Mikael Andersson on 36 points. Tony Thorne stood on his own in second place with 37 points, his first subpar round in eight events maybe heralding a return to form for the current leader in the group’s “Player of the Year” race.

The winner produced a round of stunning quality as Wichai Tananusorn posted a gross 77 for 41 points. The personable Thai golfer has promised to be back in single figures for Christmas and this round should certainly do the trick. He also recorded a birdie ‘2’ on the sixteenth to match Mikael Andersson’s effort on the fourth, and share the ‘2’s pot.

Ignoring one golfer’s claims of a lost motorcycle and another’s eight lost balls, the Booby Bevy was pressed into the hands of Mike Wilsher after achieving a score barely more than his modest handicap.

The competition had been enjoyable at Green Valley and for Wichai Tananusorn Christmas certainly came early with his best round of the year.

Cheers for Chadwick

On Wednesday, 15th December, the Pattaya Golf Society visited Bangpra International Golf Club to play a stableford competition on the well presented course which offered the relief of slightly slower greens as a result of recent dressing. The white tees were placed at their furthest extent the shortest par three distance was 175 yards making the course play long.

The field was divided into two flights at thirteen and under indicating the quality of the turnout and play got underway thirty minutes earlier than the allotted start time. No problems of course, as the experience of the organiser had anticipated this and all preparations had made with this in mind.

In a competitive top flight a returning Mark Cooper joined Jens Gunnarsson and “Banjo” Bannister in a share of second place with 31 points as Murray Hart eased ahead posting 33 points for the win.

The second flight saw Pat Murphy huff and puff his way to 29 points into third place with Len Jones taking second with 31 points. Fred Chadwick made a welcome return with the best points total of the day, 34, taking the win in the flight.

Not surprisingly there were no birdie ‘2’s but the near pin prize on the second, generously sponsored by Ronnie Ramsay, was narrowly won by Mukesh Tarkkha.

The Booby Bevy went to Joan Mullins after her “hero-ine to zero-ine” performance which saw her struggle to a low total after a fine opening competition only a few days previously at Emerald.

Bangpra continues to be a popular call with the PGS and the way it is presented always pleases golfers looking for an excellent day out. The Pattaya Golf Society would like to thank all its friends for their loyal support all year and look forward to seeing them at Emerald on Thursday, 30th December, for the Society’s eleventh Annual Scramble. Sign up forms are available now.


Emerald proves tough second time around

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday winners: Walter Baechli, left, with Frank Pilkington,
 right, and one of Bert’s helpers.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, Dec. 14, The Emerald – Stableford

The selection of courses to play can be very difficult as sometimes you book them six weeks in advance and conditions can change. On this day we nipped down to The Emerald. The last time we played here we all enjoyed it; it was in really good condition and the weather was fine. The first thing noticeable on this day was that the wind was very strong and it had been raining the day before so the ground was very wet in some areas. What was the course like?

This course is well used at present, and we had a very early start. The fairways were wet and I found the rough long and difficult. I also thought the fairways were not as good as they were last month, maybe due to use. Good for the course. To me the major problem was the greens; I do not think the holes have been changed for a long time with chunks out of the lips. Some greens also had the residue of sand on. Still we got around fairly quickly.

The scores were also not good: great last month, not as good this month, how about next month? Mind, many of our players thought the course well worth the green fee. Play well and what a great course, play bad, nuff said.

Back at Bert’s the results were called and not surprisingly no one beat their handicap. Winner in the A Flight, 0 to 16, was Walter Baechli with 36 points ahead of Brian Gabe in second with 34 points on count-back over Dick Warberg in third. In the B Flight the winner was Frank Pilkington with 34 points ahead of Mick O’Meara in second with 32 points and in third was Les Charles with 31 points.

Near Pins went to Rob Brown, Derek Brook, Carole Kubicki and Frank Pilkington. The Long Putts were sunk by Brian Parrish and Keith Phillips.

One good thing about having an early start is that you get back just in time for Happy Hour, and Bert’s ‘Golfers Special’ seems to taste better. Thanks Bert and Pu for looking after the golfers so well. T.T.F.N.


Berry takes advantage of Hughes’ last hole slip

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, Dec. 13, Bangpra - Bunker Annual Championship

We arrived at a surprisingly quiet Bangpra course to play the first round of the annual Bunker Championship, and were able to tee off 30 minutes before our allocated tee time. The course was in excellent condition, although several golfers commented that the greens were slower than we’ve come to expect here, a situation that many would consider to be an advantage. The first group never caught a group in front throughout the round and most groups were finished within 4 hours, not bad for the high season!

Annual Club Champion Tony Berry with his trophy.

The best medal round of the day was recorded by defending champion John Hughes, closely followed by Takeshi Hakozaki, with Tony Berry taking third, and the rest of the field left trailing several shots back.

In the simultaneous Stableford competition, unsurprisingly, Takeshi took the honours in the A Flight, and John Hughes in the B Flight.

Championship R1
1st John Hughes (17) net 69
2nd Takeshi Hakozaki (12) net 70
3rd Tony Berry (12) net 72
A Flight
1st Takeshi Hakozaki (12) 40pts
2nd Tony Berry (12) 37pts
3rd Mashi Kaneta (10) 33pts
B Flight
1st John Hughes (17) 39pts
2nd Ken Davidson (21) 31pts
3rd Eddie Martin (16) 30pts
Near Pins
: Gerry Cooney, Paul Edgar and Dave Ashman (2).

Wednesday, Dec. 15, Crystal Bay - Bunker Annual Championship

The second day of the annual championship saw a good field of golfers arrive at Crystal Bay in ideal conditions. We played the B and C nines and progressed at our own pace without any delays, other than the 2ndnd group losing more than 2 holes behind the first group (the names have been noted!).

The four leading contenders for the championship went out in the final group and what a titanic struggle developed. After several changes of leader throughout the round, defending champion John Hughes found himself 2 shots clear going down the 18th. Realistically only needing a par to retain his crown, John was only able to manage a bogey, whilst Takeshi and Tony both carded birdies, producing a 3-way tie on net 140 for the 2 day event.

After deliberation by the stewards, Tony Berry was declared the champion, winning on a count-back with a final round of net 68, with Takeshi Hakozaki in second place with net 70 and John Hughes third with net 71. Commiserations John and nobody could have put up a more spirited defence of the title.

In the separate Stableford competition new arrival Pat Kelly put in a magnificent performance to score 38 points off his handicap of +2, narrowly losing out to champion Tony Berry.

Championship R2
1st Tony Berry (12) net 68
2nd Takeshi Hakozaki (10) net 70
3rd John Hughes (17) net 71
A Flight
1st Tony Berry (12) 40pts
2nd Pat Kelly (2) 38pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (11) 38pts
B Flight
1st Gary Austin (16) 38pts
2nd John Hughes (17) 37pts
3rd Reg Smart (24) 36pts
Near Pins:
Mike Corner, Reg Smart, Pat Kelly amd Mashi Kaneta
Friday, Dec. 17, Khaow Kheow - Stableford

With a dozen regular golfers competing in the monthly PSC tournament, a smaller field than usual, headed out to Khaow Kheow. The course was busier than those we’ve played recently and there was a minor delay in getting off the first tee, but other than that the round progressed smoothly.

In blustery conditions, scoring was difficult, but John Graham mastered the conditions better than anyone else (on a course which he has been heard to describe as being ‘better suited to be ploughed up and turned into a potato field’!). Most other golfers struggled in the conditions and many were heard bemoaning the number of balls that had ended in a watery grave.ve.

Paul Edgar finished in second place and Tony Berry (the newly crowned club champion) continued his good run of form beating Alan Sullivan on a count-back, to take third place.

Back at the Bunker Bar Tony Berry received the championship trophy and duly provided liquid refreshment for the losing contenders.

1st John Graham (11) 34pts
2nd Paul Edgar (14) 33pts
3rd Tony Berry (11) 31pts
4th Alan Sullivan (12) 31pts
Near Pins
: Paul Edgar, Roy Dayton and Mike Corner.


Monks get in the winning habit

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, Dec. 13, Mt. Shadow – Stableford

Our regular monthly visit here and the greens were in an impeccable condition again, and with a gentle breeze conditions were perfect.

Cully and Josie Monks - the Xmas Extravaganza multiplier winners.

There were nine four-balls out today and the course was deserted as we arrived and we were able to tee off 35 minutes before our scheduled booking time.

Valentina Hiller, in her last game before she returns in mid January for another four months, won the ladies division after beating Jean Utting into second place.

John Teague won division 3 with 36points, Peter Grant was second with 32 and five points behind in third was Bernd Floethner who beat John Harvey on a 14/12 count-back.

Fred Chadwick was the winner in division 2 with 33 points ahead of newly arrived Rudi Schaefer, just the one point behind, and in third place was William Chang on 31.

Chris Voller, playing off 6, recorded the best score of the day, winning division 1 with 37 points. Raivo Velsberg in his last game before his holiday back home in Estonia came in second with 33 points and Martin Grimolby was third on 32.

There were an amazing six ‘2’s in division 1 with these lightening greens and a meagre purse went out to Kari Aarnio, Mark Cooper, Takimoto, Raivo Velsberg and Chris Voller (2). John Harvey was laughing in division 2 after his birdie on the fifth hole, the only one of the day and with a rollover as well from Green Valley he left a happy man.

Near pins were claimed by Kari Aarnio, Tony Barritt, Mark Cooper, Paul Chabot, Jim Connelly and Rudi Schafer.

Wednesday, Dec. 15, The Emerald – Stableford

There was a small exodus from our group going back to various countries for the Christmas period so only two divisions out today with 27 players. Similar to Monday, a cool breeze and pleasant conditions but a slow round, almost five hours for each group.

In form at the moment, Bryan Rought playing off 18, won division 1 with 36 points. The two Rioja boys were second and third with Rick Brand finishing fourth with 34 and John Lay beat Arvo Hiller and Raivo Velsberg on a 20/18/13 count-back for fifth after they all scored 33 points.

Burnie Sinclair took podium position in division 2 with 34 points, Alan Bissell was second one point behind and Tony Holehouse beat Joe Kubon on a 16/15 count-back after they both scored 32 points.

Near pins went to John Lay (2), Raivo Velsberg, Brian Kelly and Joe Kubon (2).

Friday, Dec. 17, Eastern Star – Stableford

Our Eastern Star Christmas extravaganza game which involved a four divisional individual stableford competition plus a pairs team multiplier for a player in division 1 and one from division 2.

There was a strong wind coming from the north which made conditions tough today, and this was reflected in the scores.

Bryan Rought’s 35 points was the highest score to win division 2 ahead of Howard Stanley in second, some three points behind, who in turn beat Cully Monks on a 19/16 count-back.

Don Head won division 1 with 34 points, Chris Voller was second on 32 and Frank Kelly beat Mark Prytz and Ya Riley on a 17/13/13 count-back after they all scored 29 points.

Terry Redding had the best score in division 3, winning with 31 points. Fred Duffy was second one point behind and in third place with 29 points was Joe Kubon.

Josie Monks recorded her highest score ever, winning the ladies comp with 34 points and Noi Emmerson was second with 33.

Richard Baldotto, playing off 26, birdied the 6th to get the only ‘2’ of the day in all divisions. There were no ladies on the four greens today so no prizes were collected.

Nearest pins went to Frank Kelly (2), Mark Prytz, Chris Voller, Alan Bissell and Chris Slota.

Nearest the pin in 2 shots were claimed by Chris Voller, Cully Monks and Terry Redding. The straightest drives were achieved by Miss Nut, Cully Monks and Frank Weland and the prizes for nearest the pin in 3shots went to Noi Emmerson, Mark Prytz, Alan Bissell and Glyn Evans.

Finally the longest drives were achieved by Miss Nut, Don Head, Howard Stanley and Alan Bissell while the longest putts were sunk by Malcolm Saunders and Dave Taylor.

In the pairs multiplier, the lowest score of the day was 9, followed by 15. Two nightmare rounds for two couples and no names mentioned.

In fourth place with 53 points were Mark Prytz and Terry Redding just behind Howard Stanley and Bryan Rought in third with 56. Noi Emmerson and Chris Voller came in second with 59 points and the Irish bandits, Josie and Cully Monks, won with 72. Well done to the pair of you.


Dave Spendley holes in one

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, Dec. 13, Treasure Hill - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Stephen Lewis (21) 33pts
2nd Stuart Thompson (9) 32pts
3rd Peter Sumner (8) 32pts
4th Richard Dobson (14) 31pts
5th Paul Hartley (20) 32pts
6th Dave Spendley (21) 32pts

After a long layoff due to difficulties in arranging an acceptable price for a competition, the Soi 13 group returned to the well laid out and attractive course on the 321. Having not played it for some time, an error may well have been made in setting the groups off from the white tees from which the course measures over 6700 yards and the scores bore that out as the CSS spiraled to the maximum 75 and became non counting for upward review of handicaps. But the course was found to be in almost perfect condition starting from the immaculate tees to well manicured fairways and rough, both to standard heights, and extremely well finished greens of good and equal speed, all of which put it the top three courses in the area alongside Bangpra and Khao Kheow.

Dave Spendley

With length the prerequisite for the day it was surprising that Stephen Lewis took the day’s top honour as the highly rated several long hitters and single figure handicappers in the field could not quite match his consistency and he led them all in with a solid round that was good enough on the day.

Stuart Thompson was the best of the low markers with a four over handicap round that earned him second spot ahead of Peter Sumner with a better count back of 16 to 13 after Peter had started well on the front nine.

Richard Dobson took his first prize out of The Haven this trip by winning the three-way count-back after scoring 31 points, with Paul Hartley in fifth after they had both had 16 on the nine as he had a better 12 to Paul’s 8 over the last six. Dave Spendley, even with a stunning five pointer on the front half, unfortunately could only muster 14 on the inward half for sixth place but had more to celebrate than all of the other prize winners.

Chris Knapp.

Stuart Thompson stroked in a marvelous 2 in the first division but was thwarted in his attempt to grab the loot as Dave Spendley swept all the pools including rollovers with an even more magnificent hole-in-one on the 6th hole to record a 1 for 5 points as his marker struggled a few more minutes for a 5 for 1 to make it a quite symmetrical card on that hole. Dave will soon be the proud owner of an IPGC Hole-in-one Golf bag in a couple of weeks time to ensure that those who missed the event will still be informed of it over the coming years. Dave received a long round of applause to which he responded with a blast on the horn to the extra delight of the throng.

Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member Frederick DeCosta and also welcomed back Stuart Thompson.

Wednesday, December 15, Phoenix - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Chris Knapp (17) 41pts
2nd Al Keith (5) 40pts
3rd Tom McCarthy (23) 39pts
4th Grant Cadell (15) 39pts
5th Paul Hartley (19) 37pts
6th Mark Armstrong (25) 36pts

After a very strenuous day during the previous outing, things were a little easier at Phoenix were the conditions were also of a high order as is usual there, and with surprisingly few other players the round got off to a good and early start with the usual suspects making the early running.

One of these, Chris Knapp, a course member with great local knowledge, took the day’s top spot with a wonderful five under handicap round that denied Al Keith a long awaited win as the latter stroked it round in gross 37 with 34 of them coming over the inward half, but still one short of Chris’s great return.

Tom McCarthy, recently returned from a long stint as a volunteer soldier in Afghanistan, did well following a few tips from the old dog up at the range with a three under handicap card that was good enough after a count-back which he won by a margin of 20 to 19 for third place which left Grant Cadell in fourth spot following a very tidy outward nine holes.

Rounding out the honourable mentions Paul Hartley was again in fifth with Mark Armstrong slipping in to sixth to record a place as he prepares to return to Oz for some possibly short lived celebrations.

Back at The Haven Mikael Jansson and John Shin, the latter a prospective qualifier for the Asian Tour and here to practice prior to the qualifying events to be held in Hua Hin in the near future, were welcomed as new members and John having been granted an Honorary Membership by the IPGC Committee. John did not compete in the day’s event as he wished to play from the blue tees from which he had a steady 72, two under the SS, which augured well for his future endeavors. Mike Hill was also welcomed back.

There were no ‘2’s in the second division but Grant Cadell and Al Keith had one each in the first to share the pot for the day.

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.


Walkley wins one at last

PSC Golf from the Cafe Kronborg

The Drut & San Mig Stu

Monday, Dec. 13, Treasure Hill - Stableford

Thirty five golfers today faced the challenge to their skill, intestinal fortitude and disseminating perseverance at Treasure Hill.

The Admiral (Dave Richardson), left,
presents the Monthly Mug to Owen Walkley.

Arriving at 0845 hours the first group hit off the yellow tees at 0920 hours and finished in the good time of four hours and twenty five minutes.

The weather was fine, the course in sensational condition and the greens superb. Coordinated efforts by the ground staff over the last few months on course improvements and renovations have come to fruition.

Prior to tee off Dobbsy commented that he was playing so well today was going to be a cakewalk. His comment, as history recalls, was not unlike Colonel Custer’s at the Little Big Horn who indicated he was going to give the opposition the business. Mr Custer’s advisors should have informed him that the entire Sioux Indian Nation with assistance from their neighbours intended giving Mr Custer and his outfit a gentle reminder about letting your shooting irons do the talking.

Possibly Dobbsy should have gone down a similar path as his twenty points for the journey left him in nautical terminology, at the stern.

Peter Hammond, when asked what he liked about golf replied, “It isn’t the good scores I hand in.”

We welcomed Ben Agerbo from Denmark and Liisa Holken-Rinkinen and Raimo Rinkinen from Finland.

In the A flight Paul Avery totalled thirty seven points to take first place on a count-back from Don Richardson. Third place saw Owen Walkley hand in thirty five points and commented that his game was not unlike Van Gough’s ear for music whilst Paul Cardwell on the same score finished fourth with Elias Magnusson on thirty three points rounding out the podium.

The B flight saw Mike Herridge with thirty four points take the honours from Ronnie Ratte and Dave Richardson on the same score. Jean Claude Lhoste on thirty one points finished fourth and said that the day his IQ strays into double digits he’ll take line honours. Svende Gaarde was fifth with thirty points.

A Flight (0-18)
1st Paul Avery (12) 37pts
2nd Don Richardson (10) 37pts
3rd Owen Walkley (13) 35pts
4th Paul Cardwell (10) 35pts
5th Elias Magnusson (17) 33pts
B Flight (19+)
1st Mike Herridge (24) 34pts
2nd Ronnie Rattee (27) 34pts
3rd Dave Richardson (24) 34pts
4th Jean Claude Lhoste (23) 31pts
5th Svende Gaarde (23) 30pts

Near pins featured Rob Brown on 2, Don Richardson on 6, Richard Kubicki on 13 and Graham Buckingham on 17.

Long putts went to Niels Hansen on 9 and Ken Bernek on 18.

The Coveted Compass Cap is still in dry dock; however, it should return in the near future.

Deefa as per usual had a field day and looked like he spent the weekend in a vault at Fort Knox. Thanks go to all who contributed to charity.

Thursday, Dec. 16, Phoenix – Monthly Mug

Despite many PSC members attending the fabulous PSC end of year Christmas party festivities held at The Town in Town Hotel, some 30 odd diehards somehow turned up for the monthly mug duel at the Phoenix golf club the morning after. This scribe has no idea what time they departed the Caf้ Kronborg (for obvious reasons) however it would be a pretty sure bet that The Admiral would have had the lads and lassies on board the buses at 8.15 precisely!

As you would have surmised, SMS stayed at the party thoroughly enjoying himself along with a multitude of other members and their guests. Hearty congratulations to all who once again ensured that a memorable night was achieved and credit must go to the Town in Town hotel for their, yet again, first class food and services.

Being one of several scribes who contribute to the Caf้ Kronborg write-ups, I was called upon in the afternoon following the game to attend the presentations and take a picture. At the time I was having a massage for a sore shoulder (get your mind out of the gutter!) and like a mug, answered the phone. Accordingly I was provided with a draft which is embellished herewith…

Apparently all the golfers and caddies were held up by a storm for 30 minutes. Anyone in and around the Pattaya area would attest to this including SMS.

Owen Walkley, who has been mentioned numerous times of late including close podium finishes, managed to keep his act together to take out the coveted Monthly Mug award with a Net 73. He said his Eagle made his day and indeed it appears to be what separated his score from several other A flight close finishers: Rob Brown, Wolfgang Bade and Paul Avery with 75’s, and Koji Yamada and Per Olav Baarli with 76’s trailed by an “if only!”

Ronnie Rattie starred for B flight with a Net 76 on a count-back from trooper Graham Buckingham. The ever present Mike Winfield shot 77 and Dave Richardson (The Admiral) picked up fourth place on a count-back from Warren Holland.

Monthly Mug:
1st Owen Walkley (13) net 73
A Flight (0-18)
1st Rob Brown (7) net 75
2nd Wolfgang Bade (18) net 75
3rd Paul Avery (12) net 75
4th Koji Yamada (13) net 76
B Flight (19+)
1st Ronnie Ratte (27) net 76
2nd Graham Buckingham (23) net 76
3rd Mike Winfield (20) net 77
4th Dave Richardson (24) net 78

Near Pins were claimed by Owen Walkley (M4), Paul Avery (M8), Inge Malfridsson (L2) and Koji Yamada (L7).

Longest Putts were sunk on M9 by Karen Brown and on L9 by Koji Yamada..

Deefa the Dog and the Compass Cap were both sleeping off their responsibilities today however they will be back on Monday to make amends.


Millar mauls the field

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Vance Millar, left, with Sus Ige.

With a slight mist rising off the fairways and dew on the first couple of greens, the first group teed off at Pattaya Country Club on Wednesday Dec. 15. Some of the tees were forward and some were back, it didn’t help most of us but again it was the Canadians leading the way. Vance Millar, father of Matt, took full advantage of the situation. Playing off a respectable 18 handicap, and being 74 years young, he clobbered the young folk into submission. Vance came home with 44 points, 3 three shots better than the nearest competitor Sus Ige who thought his 41 points was enough to win the day. Those playing with Sus also thought he would win easily but it was not to be.

The rest of us just fell by the wayside, even the girls couldn’t come close to the leaders. The next score was around 35 points and not even close.

It was a great day for the golfers and lots of laughs. The course is beginning to dry out a bit so we expect the scores to be going down in the next few weeks. Hope to see all again next week!


Frank fires forty-one at Pattaya Country Club

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column

Monday, Dec. 13, Burapha C & D - Stableford

Arriving at Burapha this morning, the 41 Outbackers were greeted with a strange sight, course A & B was closed and the car park was empty. This is supposed to be the high season, where are all the golfers – they weren’t at Burapha that’s for sure.

Tuesday’s top scorer Frank O’Neill, left, with Division A winner Stefan Hoge.

Something else odd today, it rained, it never rains in December in Thailand – and it wasn’t just a sprinkling, there were a couple of heavy showers but in the distance much more rain could be seen, fortunately that missed us.

How is it, with a completely empty course, the starter can manage to put the three slowest and worst lady golfers in front of us and allow them to play the entire round at a snail’s pace without asking them to step aside and let groups through. Well the only marshal to be seen wasn’t interested as we crawled round the course with groups backed up everywhere. Come on Burapha, look after your customers!

Whilst we’re on the subject of having a grizzle at Burapha, why are you over-watering the course? On many fairways we should have been playing preferred lies as the ball was covered in mud every time, particularly round the aprons and the rough is still ridiculously long.

Our thanks to Scott Rowley, who came down from Bangkok to try out this golf auto score system; which in a nutshell is a specially printed card with a series of numbers on it for each hole, which you mark off. At the end of the round the card is scanned and automatically works out your stableford score, count-backs and ‘2’s, as well as giving you a live leaderboard. We had a few teething problems with it, for which we apologise, but generally it seemed a very good system that might be more suited to the PSC monthlys with their big fields.

Capt’ Bob got through the presentation a little bit late as a result, and having announced the winners etc, we realised that Tony Garnett’s score was nowhere to be seen. So quick review revealed a software blip, don’t you just love computers sometimes, and Tony was declared the winner of Div A with 37 points – well done Tony and we have since, received a sincere apology from Scott for the error. Three guys tied on 35 points shared the next three places, namely Mark, Mark and Mann.

Div B went to Gavin Knox (36pts) from Sel Wegner and Lyndsay Semple both with 35 and Div C was won by Peter Stonebridge also with 36 points, which included a couple of birdie four pointers.

Finally, welcome to the group of eight golfers from the UK who joined us for a week’s golf. Their leader is Vince Butler and the group includes a guy called Kev Welch who General Jack used to play golf with many years ago, in a golf society called the Four Seasons, based in Reading, Berkshire. Small world isn’t it?

There were seven ‘2’s from Mitch Black, Will Green, John Kittilsen, Sel Wegner, Bob Philp and Dave Buchanan had 2.

Div A (0-10)
1st Tony Garnett (10) 37pts
2nd Mark McDonald (3) 35pts
3rd Mark Rossiter (10) 35pts
4th Steve Mann (9) 35pts
Div B (11-14)
1st Gavin Knox (11) 36pts
2nd Sel Wegner (13) 35pts
3rd Lindsay Semple (11) 35pts
4th Svenn Ole Lund (12) 34pts
Div C (15+)
1st Peter Stonebridge (15) 36pts
2nd Wes Radomiljoc (15) 35pts
3rd Colin Bavington (29) 33pts
4th Bob Lindborg (16) 33pts
Tuesday, Dec. 14, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

The guys from the UK were with us again today and we have to report that all eight were present and correct with no casualties from the previous night’s activities. Well done for making it, even though your prowess on the golf course wasn’t quite so evident.

The course is continuing to improve and whatever one may think, it’s not just about the course, it is also about the people and here you will find a service and a welcome second to none. The caddies are also excellent and make every effort to ensure that you will enjoy your round as they did for our UK visitors.

Frank O’Neill only plays on this course once a week but has seen his handicap drift out to 20 over recent months; at last however, he has stopped the rot, coming good with the day’s top score of 41 points to win Div B. Stefan Hoge also had a very creditable 39 points to win Div A. Welcome back to Tobias, who was having his first round for some time and took second with 35 whilst the General mustered 34 points for third.

Dennis Persson is the form horse at the moment with another a good round taking third in Div B with 37 points that will surely see his handicap come down another point this week to 19, a drop of four shots over the last month. At the other end of the scale, John Lawton hit rock bottom with probably his worst round of the year with a miserable 20 points.

For the record, 24 Outbackers played today and there were three ‘2’s from John Kittilsen, Dennis Persson and Vince Butler.

Div A (0-17)
1st Stefan Hoge (15) 39pts
2nd Tobias (8) 35pts
3rd Jack Moseley (11) 34pts
Div B (18+)
1st Frank O’Neill (20) 41pts
2nd Paul Smets (19) 39pts
3rd Dennis Persson (20) 37pts

Wednesday, Dec. 15, Crystal Bay - Stableford

You wouldn’t believe it was the high season here either; after a deserted Burapha on Monday, there wasn’t a Korean to be seen at Crystal Bay.

Not the course condition that it used to be a few years back but very acceptable and excellent value for money; so much so the Outback will be back soon.

The group of eight golfers from
the UK led by Vince Butler, holding the beer.

Twenty five Outbackers were playing the C & A nines with the Capt’ demonstrating once again his love for this course with the day’s top score of 40 points. Dave Buchanan enjoyed his last game with us as he heads home to Scotland for Christmas, with level par round off the bat (37 points playing off a handicap of just 1).

At last our UK visitors came good with their leader Vince Butler (34pts) grabbing fourth place in Div A, two back from Gareth Gill in third with 36. Richard Bailey also flew the flag for them taking second in Div B with 35 points behind Sel Wegner (37pts); as did Will Green, who got the better of Bob Lindborg on count-back, both with 33.

There were a bunch of ‘2’s from Bob Philp, Jack Moseley, Gareth Gill, Dave Buchanan, Vince Butler and Brian Hendron.

Div A (0-11)
1st Bob Philp (8) 40pts
2nd Dave Buchanan (1) 37pts
3rd, Gareth Gill (8) 36pts
4th, Vince Butler (9) 34pts
Div B (12+)
1st Sel Wegner (13) 37pts
2nd Richard Bailey (12) 35pts
3rd Will Green (12) 33pts
4th Bob Lindborg (15) 33pts
Friday, Dec. 17, Khao Kheow - Stableford

What a day to play golf at Khao Kheow, the wind blowing a gale on a very cool day and making for some interesting golf on the A and B nines.

It was the last day with the Outback for the UK friends of John O’Keefe, who were playing Laem Chabang on Saturday before returning back home; always supposing they can get home with some of the airports already closed due to snow. Great week guys! And thanks for your generous contribution to the “Boo Hoo” Cup.

Anyway back to golf and as usual there were only two people who beat their handicap, which is what always happens when we play here. They came from Div B with George Bishop and Carl Luke both getting 37 points. Paul Greenaway also had a good round with 36 points to win Div A from Steve Mann on 35; and Sakorn came in with another win in Div C with just 32 points off a h’cap of 21.

There is not too many times Khao Kheow gets beaten up that is for sure; the course was in great condition and playing difficult due to some of the pin placements and the strong wind as mentioned before. With 41 players it was a bit of a juggle on the 1st tee, sorry for any inconvenience fellas but everybody got off early and it was plain sailing from there. Playing in a little over four hours meant for pleasant golf with no waiting on the tees, which was great for a change.

There was another “Boo Hoo” Cup match between ‘the Lawtons’, although I’m not quite sure how they ended up with it. Me thinks it’s because the holders were not around to play, and they challenged the Sugarman & John Cogan. John & Sugar lost and are therefore now the holders.

There were four ‘2’s from Bob Lindborg, George Bishop, Bob St. Aubin & Mark McDonald.

Div A (0-11)
1st Paul Greenaway (10) 36pts
2nd Steve Mann (9) 35pts
3rd Bob Philp (8) 32pts
4th Tony Garnett (10) 30pts
Div B (12-16)
1st George Bishop (15) 37pts
2nd Carl Luke (16) 37pts
3rd Sel Wegner (13) 35pts
4th Steve Plant (14) 33pts
Div C (17+)
1st Sakorn Pramoolchart (21) 32pts
2nd Kev Welch (19) 32pts
3rd John Kittilsen (20) 31pts
4th John Lawton (18) 29pts

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.


Shenanigans Jomtien Quiz League

Results from Dec. 14

This week’s winners “The Tinkers”.

Quiz Teams              Geog.   Sport  Music   Movies   General  Photo  Puzzles   Total

The Tinkers                   2           5          5             5              11           20          20          68

Knuckleheads               3           6          7             7              12           16          16          67

7 Chinese Brothers       5           6          7             6              10           16          16          66

Aquaholics                    2           2          3             7              10           20          20          64

3 Stooges                       4           4          6             6               9            12          20          61

Paul ++++ Etc               2           4          4             7               8            18          18          61

Murphy’s Jaws             7           7          3             5               8            12          18          60

The Cousins                  3           4          5             7               9            16          16          60

Just 4 Laffs                   1           5          5             3               6            14          18          52

The Outcasts                 5           4          5             5               9            16            6           50

Alba Korea Alliance    5           2          2             2               9            15          14          49

The Macs                       2           6          2             3               5            10          16          44

J & L                               0          2            2            2               2            14           6           28


Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Pao and Noodle.

First place VFW Post 9876 lost three points to fourth place Café Kronborg but no one can catch them now as they are 12.5 points ahead of the pack with only 12 points available in this league. Kran Nielson led Kronborg with a 520 series with Sue Murphy helping with a 506. Somrak was best for VFW with a 515 series.

Brother D moved into second place, based on total pins, ahead of Green Tree after taking three points from them this week. Sak led Brother D with a 520 series and Noodle Russell was best for Green Tree with a 211 game and 544 series. It looks like the trophy race will be for second, third and fourth place as VFW has clinched the first place trophy.

Sabai Friday is getting in the hunt for a trophy after winning all four points from the USMC team but scores were not good on lanes 11 and 12 again this week.

Pao Orawan bowled a 204 game, 562 series and Mio Aamlid had a 523 to lead House of the Golden Coin to a four point sweep over Canada.

Bavaria with, their 101 handicap, won three points from Jack Tar

Congratulations to our bowlers La Montgomery, Mio Aamlid and Nok Kennedy who all won a bronze medal in the team event at the Thailand National games. Nok Kennedy also won a bronze in the doubles. We know you wanted a better result but the best bowlers in Thailand are hard to beat.


HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]

Former Thai national women’s team coach takes over Pattaya United

Almost a clean sweep for the Blarney Boys

Montgomery has a great week

Dangle starts to shine at Emerald

John Murdoch earns back to back wins

Stuvik takes 2010 Asian Formula Renault Championship title

Big freeze puts Jimmy White exhibition on hold

United wing wizard signs shirts for charity

Preparations underway for 2011 PTT Pattaya Open at Dusit Thani Pattaya

It’s Colm’s column

The week before Christmas

Chonburi Games draws to a close with much fanfare

Wendy’s new driver pays off

Santa delivers the goods at Baan Jing Jai Scramble

Wichai dominates at Green Valley

Emerald proves tough second time around

Berry takes advantage of Hughes’ last hole slip

Monks get in the winning habit

Dave Spendley holes in one

Walkley wins one at last

Millar mauls the field

Frank fires forty-one at Pattaya Country Club

Shenanigans Jomtien Quiz League

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

 

Announcement

Big freeze puts Jimmy White exhibition on hold

PATTAPA SPORTS ROUND-UP

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