Pattaya hosts inaugural Columbia Trail Masters race at Khao Mai Kheow

Continued on pgae 50 Runners get underway at the inaugural Columbia Trail Masters race at Khao Mai Kheow, Pattaya, Saturday May 7.

Running races are not new to Thailand. Almost every weekend there is a 10km race, a half-marathon, marathon or triathlon, somewhere in or around Bangkok. Interest in running is growing fast and is not confined to the capital either as many other regions boast excellent events, all of which encourage and promote a healthier lifestyle.

This, the inaugural Columbia Trail Masters race, held May 7, was to be a truly international event. Roughly half the 400 competitors were Thai, the rest made up from a multitude of different nationalities including Europeans, Americans, Australians, Japanese, Chinese, new Zealanders and Kenyans to name but a few.

Situated at scenic Khao Mai Kheow, not far from Pattaya, the event was an off-road race making use of forest trails and farmland, over rough terrain and on a wide variety of surfaces. This was not at all like a road race either and many competitors were surprised at how different trail running can be. Adult competitors came to take part in 3 separate races; 3km, 10km and 21.5km, while some 100 smiling young runners competed in the pre-event 3km Fun Run for kids.

The 10km and 21.5km races started together and about 300 runners left the start line. The trail went along dirt farm roads before swinging into the forest. The first 1.5km was fairly flat and the trail was wide enough for racers to jostle for position before the first of the steep hills.

Hellery Kipchumba of Kenya, left, was the winner of the half marathon race.

Climbing for about 150m, the single track wound through the trees. Racers had to concentrate on where they were putting their feet as tree roots and boulders did their best to trip up the unwary. The trail descended and at around the 3km marker we emerged into fields and raced to the edge of a eucalyptus forest where at 5km, and the edge of the forest, we came to the first water stop. What a welcome sight!

Many competitors were wearing camelbacks and even they took water to drink. Those carrying no hydration system at all were at serious risk of dehydration as the temperature started to climb.

The 10km run split off to the right and carried on through the forest and over another big climb. The 21.5km race went on straight around the forest, to a steep escarpment down and into farmland below. After the drop down the escarpment, the next 1.5km was on sandy farm roads and at 9.5km the runners arrived at the second water stop.

It was getting tough now. Competing in a half-marathon on a road is easy compared to this! The trail went on through the farmlands and small quarries until at about 13km the athletes arrived at water station 3. It was getting hot and everyone was starting to suffer.

The trail followed the line of hills to the left and at water stop 4, the runners had covered approximately 17km and started heading back towards the forest. Being under the trees again was quite a relief as the trail started to climb again for the last hill. At the top of the climb, the trail rejoined the 10km race just before the 19km marker. Then a fast run down the hill to water station 5 followed by a beautiful last section exiting the forest. A 300m sprint across the dam and into the finish!

All the competitors agreed that the race was excellent and are asking for more. The venue offered varied trails and surface conditions, all of which have made the Columbia Trail Masters Race an event to remember. The Columbia Trail Masters 2011 showed that trail running is very popular and has a fantastic future in Thailand.

(Active Management Asia Press Release)
Results overall:
21km half marathon:
1st Hellery Kipchumba (Kenya) 1.29.50
2nd Hillery Kipilemboi (Kenya) 1.30.06
3rd Chakrit Boonkong (Thailand) 1.30.57
10km Trail Run
1st Alfred Kembol (Kenya) 0.42.39
2nd Jared Mokua (Kenya) 0.43.58
3rd Anand Phromsenee (Thailand) 0.44.32

‘Dolphins’ season in danger of unraveling after defeat by Police United

Staff reporters

Pressure is beginning to mount on Pattaya United coach Jatuporn Pramolbal and his players following the club’s fourth straight defeat in the Thai Premier League; the latest setback coming in the form of a 1-0 home defeat by Insee Police United in Chonburi last weekend.

United have now gone over four hours since their last Premier League goal, that coming in the 2-1 away defeat at Chiang Rai and it’s the lack of goals that will be most worrying to Jatuporn as he seeks turn United’s league campaign around before the mid-season break.

The Dolphins profligacy in front of goal was evident once more in the defeat to Insee Police at the Physical Educational Institute Stadium in Chonburi last Saturday. Both Ludovick and Singmanee had chances early on for the home team but were unable to convert and with what seemed like their first attack of the game, Police opened the scoring in the 20th minute.

The Pattaya defence failed to deal with an attack down their right flank and when the ball came across to the far post, Korean forward Lee Han-Kook was perfectly placed to steer the ball past Narit in the United goal.

The Dolphins came close to an equalizer on the half hour mark when a free kick from Niveat Siriwong struck a Police defender before going agonizingly the wrong side of the goal with the keeper wrong footed.

This was United’s last real opening of the first half and some sections of the crowd began to voice their disenchantment with the team’s performance as the players left the field.

Jatuporn rang the changes at half time and replaced Japanese midfielder Kazuya Myodo with the more attacking option of O.J. Obatola to partner Ludovick up front.

The substitution seemed to galvanize Pattaya as they pressed hard for an equalizer in the second half and visiting goalkeeper Thanganuruck had to be on full alert to deal with a succession of dangerous crosses into the Police United area. Unfortunately for Pattaya, they were unable to capitalize on their territorial and possession advantage in the second period and the visitors were able to run down the clock as United’s attempts on goal grew more and more desperate.

Things won’t be any easier for United in the coming weeks as they face a series of tough fixtures including home games against Chonburi ‘Sharks’, Army United and Muang Thong United, interspersed by away fixtures at Khon Kaen and Bangkok Glass. United’s next game is an away trip to Khon Kaen FC on Sunday May 22, kick off at 4 p.m.

While Pattaya United were slipping to another defeat last weekend, neighbouring rivals Chonburi FC were enjoying the best win of the season with a 6-1 thrashing of visiting Khon Kaen FC. Brazilian forward Nay Fabiano was the star of the show, grabbing a hat trick, while fellow import, Serbian Vladimir Ribic, also bagged a brace and the scoring for the Sharks was completed in the final minute by Sukree Etae.

Chonburi fleetingly went to the top of the league following this result but they were pushed back down to second spot just 24 hours later after Buriram staged a remarkable comeback to beat Navy FC 3-2.

Sri Racha meanwhile made it two wins out of two as they defeated Ostotspa M-150 2-1 in Saraburi thanks to goals from Aron da Silva and Yodrak Namuangrak to lift them off the bottom of the league for the first time this season.

Pattaya Cricket Club sink Singapore Spirits

Pattaya Cricket Club players line up before the match against Singapore Spirits at Horseshoe Point, Saturday, May 14.

Another full weekend of cricket at Horseshoe Point, the home of Pattaya Cricket Club, saw PCC play the touring Singapore Spirits.

Saturday, May 14, was a 30 over game, the first fixture between the two clubs and the Spirits won the toss and elected to bat on a sultry, humid day. But it was the PCC bowlers who had the upper hand in the early exchanges as Salman and Usman bowled a superb line and length to restrict the aggressive intent of the Spirits openers.

The pressure eventually told as Usman had Inzy caught behind for 8. Hansie maintained PCC’s grip on the game with a mid innings spell of 6 overs, 4 for 32 and Andy Emery ably supported the bowling attack with some often hostile but sometimes wayward swing bowling.

It was left to the captain Simon Philbrook and the returning opening bowlers to finish the innings, after a somewhat indifferent one over spell from Elfrado Roberts, restricting the Spirits to a competitive but gettable 164 for 7. Akash top scored with an adventurous 33 not out.

In reply PCC needed a solid start and they were not let down by their openers. Salman hit a fine 30, but it was Earl Brown who set about providing the stability to the innings and he scored a chanceless 11 runs, 6 off one ball, from the first 10 overs, before retiring himself after realizing it was only a 30 over game. Usman then provided the much needed impetus with a thrilling 46 from only 17 balls.

A mini mid-innings collapse left PCC needing 20 runs from the last two overs with 3 wickets left when Simon Philbrook was joined by Mickey Price, a thoroughbred of considerable age and his experience showed as he masterfully top edged his second ball over the wicketkeepers head for a vital boundary. Simon managed to find the boundary with pull shots over mid wicket and it meant that only six runs were needed off the final over. But Mickey was on strike!

Two swings and misses added to the tension. The thoroughbred then put his body on the line as a rising delivery somehow hit part of the bat and chest and a scampered single resulted. Simon then took no chance by dispatching the next delivery over the mid wicket boundary to secure a victory with only 2 balls remaining. A thrilling finish to a wonderful day of cricket. The man of the match award went to Usman for his all round performance with the bat and ball.

The following day was a T20 game starting at noon and it was rather obvious most players had enjoyed an evening of entertainment that only Pattaya can provide. Singapore Spirits batted first and the previous night’s activities certainly suited Abi as he laid into the PCC bowling with 30 off 17 balls. Inzy continued the onslaught with a dazzling 31 from 16 balls and the evergreen Noel chipped in with a timely 29 not out as the Spirits notched up a very respectable 157 from their 20 overs.

ndy Emery was the star bowler recording figures of 3 for 13 from his 4 overs.
In reply PCC totally dominated the bowling from the start with John G and Andy Emery scoring 20 and 31 respectively at a run a ball. Sunny, captain for the day in the absence of the resting Simon, continued the chase with 33 not out and was ably supported with cameos from Usman and Pavit. PCC reached their target with 2 overs to spare and then set about the bar with equal enthusiasm. Andy Emery picked up the man of the match award.

Note: Anyone wishing to know more about PCC and its future fixtures please see the website www.pattaya cricketclub.com. All are welcome.

Air Sea Land Games held to honour His Majesty the King

College of Saint Teresa won the women’s takraw event.

Phasakorn Channgam

As part of the celebrations to mark His Majesty the King’s 84th birthday this year, more than 20 different sports organizations in the region have got together to hold the Air Sea Land Games 2011 at a variety of different locations in the province.

To kick off the month long event, which finishes on May 29, a beach sepak takraw competition was held on Jomtien Beach on April 30 - May 1 with more than 30 teams from around the kingdom taking part.

The tournament was divided into male and female categories, as well as a separate youth competition, with each team featuring a squad of five players and games being decided over the best of 5 sets.

On the last day of the competition, the men’s singles final drew together teams from Bangkok Thonburi University and RTN Chonburi, with the latter running out easy victors by a score of 3 sets to nil, 15:12, 15:11, and 15:11.

The women’s final saw College of Saint Teresa take on IRPC Rayong and this proved to be a much more evenly contested match with College of Saint Teresa eventually taking the title with a 3-1 set win over their opponents with scores of 15:11, 12:15, 15:5, and 15:13.

Following on just a few days later, Jomtien Beach was also the venue for the first leg of the 2011 Windsurfing Championships of Thailand and the Pattaya Windsurfing Cup, which fell under the umbrella of this year’s Air Sea Land Games.

The races took place from May 5-8 and as well as Thai sailors, the event, as in past years, also included representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

The competition was divided into several categories with the winners being as follows (Thai unless stated otherwise): Mistral One Design (Men’s): Nawin Singsat; (Women’s): Ms. Holiya (Indo); RS:X (Men’s): Ek Bunsawat; (Juniors): Nakaret Wantana; (Slalom A): Kamthon Prasertkarn; (Slalom B): Theerachai Wisuthikul; (Beginner Boys): Tanakorn Pumklang; (Beginner Girls): Pornruedee Sangpakdee.

Pattaya Mayor and Windsurfing Association of Thailand President Itthipol Khunplome was on hand to present trophies to all the winners and runners-up. The event was seen as a forerunner to the SEA Games which will take place later in the year in Indonesia.

Another leg of the Air Sea Land Games was held at Jomtien Beach last week when 8 teams lined up to take part in the Women’s Beach Volleyball Thailand Open 2011, which took place from May 9-11.

The final set up a match between the Angthong Team and Buddhirangsi Pibun School 1 with the former prevailing by a score of 2 sets to nil, 21:14 and 21:18. The winners received a prize of 7,000 baht while the beaten finalists picked up 5,000 baht. Sripatum University took third place after overcoming Samut Sakhon College 1 in a playoff match.

Other sports forming part of this year’s Air Sea Land Games include Paragliding, Handball, Netball, Sailing, Beach football, Diving, Equestrian events, Rock Climbing, Kite flying, Rowing, Shooting, Jet skis, and Table Tennis among others. The events will conclude at the end of this month.

Bangkok Thonburi University take on RTN Chonburi in the men’s sepak takraw final.

Women’s beach volleyball forms one of the sports at this year’s Air Sea Land Games.

Windsurfers unite for a fun photo after the conclusion of the 1st leg of the Windsurfing Championships of Thailand, May 8 at Jomtien Beach.

Pattaya Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh, 5th right, presents prizes to the winning volleyball teams, Wednesday, May 11.

Ferrari chief raises possibility of F1 breakaway

The Alpine Golf Resort is one of the many courses in Chaing Mai region participating in the golf promotion. (Photo/Alpine Golf Resort)

The “Chiang Mai Golf Festival 2011” is being held through May –June this year at selected golf courses in and around Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Lamphun provinces.

The event is being supported by Chiang Mai Provincial Authority, Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association, TAT, and the Thai Golf Course Association, with the aim of helping to stimulate sport and tourism during the low season.

A price of only 800 baht per person is being offered for every golf course involved in the promotion and a golf competition is currently being held on every Saturday and Sunday, until July 2 at twelve of the selected golf courses in the area.

A cost of 1,000 baht will be levied on Saturday & Sunday competition days to include green fee, free give away, lucky draw entry and dinner (caddy fee not included). Meanwhile all fourteen of the participating golf courses are offering the cut price green fee rate of 800 baht on a daily basis for the duration of the event until June 30 (Note - not available at those courses when organized events are taking place).

For more information, call 053 248 604, 053 248 607 from 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. or TAT Call Center Tel. 1672 from 8 a.m. -8 p.m. or visit the official tournament website at www.chiangmaigolffestival.net.

Nothing Bland about Larry IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society made a return to Khao Kheow on Monday, 9th May, to play a stableford competition on the C and A nines on what is the favourite course for many Pattaya golfers. The field was reduced by returning friends but there was still enough class on show to make more than a meaningful fist of things.

Stu Thompson, Garry Hookey and Shuichi Kodaka shared third place with 30 points each whilst Masa Takano held down second place with 32 points. The best round of the day was recorded by Larry Bland and his level par of 36 points represents excellent value on the tough course.

Stuart Thompson took the ‘2’s pot for his fine effort on A5 and the Booby Bevy was held back for the round so a rollover could be presented after Mountain Shadow the next trip out. There would be plenty of candidates for the beer there surely!

Bland doubles Up
Mountain Shadow golf club has a reputation for being tough with golfers on top of their game being the only ones to enjoy a successful round and all gofers need a challenge such as this once in a while.

The Pattaya Golf Society made its first visit there this year on Wednesday, 11th May, and found the course in excellent condition throughout. Accuracy off the tees and touch around the greens are paramount here and better golfers will find space at the top of the leaderboard. So it was as Shuichi Kodaka and Stuart Thompson scored 31 points each for a share of second place with American Larry Bland producing his second consecutive winning round with a fine 33 points.

There were no birdie ‘2’s on the rolling greens and the Booby Bevy went to a low scoring count-back with Don Nellis just pipping Rob Lamond for the dubious honour. Full marks to Don however for his excellent stewardship on the day and the field thoroughly enjoyed the test that Mountain Shadow had offered them.

Masa back to his best
On Friday, 13th May the Pattaya Golf Society visited the Emerald course in Ban Chang to play a stableford competition on the well prepared course. The day continued cloudy and excessively humid but the golfers in the moderate field enjoyed the challenge and scores generally were very good.

In third place was Garry Hookey on 34 points and in second on 35 was Shuichi Kodaka. The winner with an excellent forty points was the enthusiastic Japanese golfer Masa Takano. It represented his best golf this trip and was more than enough to prevent Larry Bland from taking a third successive victory. In truth Larry had a nightmare on the greens, three-putting as if it was going out of fashion.

There were no birdie ‘2’s but the field doffed their caps on the thirteenth tee in deference to John Mason who recorded an ‘ace’ there just two weeks previously.

The Booby Bevy went to Aussie visitor Don Pittendreigh whose single round last year was a disaster and this one was barely an improvement for the twenty handicapper. Never mind Don, there is always next year to look forward to.

Flor breaks his duck for 2011 PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Thursdays’ winners with one of Bert’s finest.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, May 10, Plutaluang – Stableford
With Papa Ray’s Memorial Tournament being played on the same day, it was decided we would still play from Tropical Bert’s as many players do not like organised scrambles. Thus it was, with the normal organisers away, that Mashi filled the gap ably assisted by Daryl Evans and off they went from Bert’s at the same time as the group who were remembering Papa Ray.

The course at Navy was pretty busy but with 36 holes we were able to play the opposite 18 holes and so played the South and East, which were in good condition but really windy, and still really tough.

It was a pleasant day apart from the wind, and we were soon around and finished, then into the showers and into the restaurant and back to Bert’s where we were able to pass the time until the presentation.

In first place with 34 points was Mashi Kaneta ahead of Bob Noble with 31 points in second and William Bertron in third with 30. Barry Oats completed the podium in fourth with 27 points.

Near Pins went to Rod Brown, William Bertron (2) and Daryl Evans.

Thursday, May 12, Bangpakong – Stableford
We had not been to this course for some time, but checking the PSC calendar for May it showed the 13th as a holiday so it gave me chance to book on the Thursday and as that is a Bangpakong Sports Day it seemed an ideal opportunity. Later I was to find out that in fact Friday was not a holiday but the outcome was we played a great course at a great rate.

The drive up there was no problem, it is a little longer than to most courses but is essentially all motorway so it is quite relaxing apart from leaving Pattaya in bright sunlight and going through a long distance in the rain that made us wonder. Once there it was soon onto the first tee with the sky looking a bit dark.

The nines have been changed around of late; I suppose most players know but it makes a change. This is a long course but is fairly open for the long hitters, but still it has its difficulties and most agree it is a fine layout. The greens are fast and true and only if you get into the rough are you in trouble. It is deep and difficult to get out of.

The rain caught up with us, and the heavens opened, and for half an hour or so we took cover, then it was back to the fray as we continued our round. After the rain the rough was even harder to get out of, and it also got very humid as the heat got up again.

Soon finished it was into the showers and onto the road. Back at Bert’s it was time for the ‘Bert’s Special’ then onto the presentation.

The winner was Joel Flor, for the first time in a year, with 39 points. Joel had a shoulder operation and it is nice to see him playing well again. In second with also 39 points and losing on count-back was Brian Parrish. In third was Henry Wong with 38 points and in fourth was Mick O’Meara with 36.

Near Pins were claimed by Joel Flor, Bill Knight, Brian Parrish and Tom Cotton.

Aussie 1,2,3 at Khao Kheow PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg

Peter Blackburn

Tuesday, May 3– Rayong C.C. - Stableford

With Monday being a Thai Public Holiday we decided to hold our first golf day of the week on the Tuesday, and although it clashed with several other golf outlets we had a good field of eighteen golfers. We welcomed from Newcastle, Australia, Marie & Lionel Rowles, Dave Roberts, Mal Shying and Tony Leece plus Chris Walsh from Ireland.

Mike Gosden, Marie Rowles and ‘The Admiral’ Dave Richardson at Pleasant Valley.

The skies were clear as we departed Caf้ Kronborg and after the forty three minute drive we arrived at Rayong Country Club to find an almost deserted car park, always nice to see. Shortly after our arrival Jeff Wylie from Mulligans Lakeside arrived with his two groups and as the course was deserted we hit off the first and they hit off the tenth tee.

Our first group was able to commence at our leisure and we teed off 30 minutes ahead of schedule at 0930hrs in hot and sticky conditions. The golf course was in fine shape and the greens were well prepared although a tad slow at times but certainly true, and all in all Rayong Country Club is outstanding value for money. We “flew” through our front nine in one hour and fifty minutes including a drink stop and the full round was completed in exactly four hours.

This challenging course took its toll on most of us with just 2 golfers able to play to their handicaps or better. Ulf Larsson followed up his 43 points on the previous Thursday by winning the A Flight with 36 points, two ahead of Mike (Hunter) Gosden in second place. Your scribe hung on to take third place one point further back with Mike Winfield two points behind me in fourth place.

Marie Rowles hit immediate form and easily won B Flight with a fine 40 points, six points ahead of Irishman Kevin Dinan, and his countryman Chris Walsh finished three back in third place. Aussie Jerry Dobbs managed to beat Mick O’Connor on a count-back for fourth place one point further back.

A Flight (0-20)
1st Ulf Larsson (16) 36pts
2nd Mike Gosden (10) 34pts
3rd Peter Blackburn (15) 33pts
4th Mike Winfield (20) 31pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Marie Rowles (23) 40pts
2nd Kevin Dinan (25) 34pts
3rd Chris Walsh (25) 31pts
4th Jerry Dobbs (21) 30pts

The Compass Cap was easily won by Mal Shying and Deefa the Dog was paraded by his master, Hunter, and collected numerous donations to charity from the generous Kronny crew.

Friday, May 6, Pleasant Valley – Stableford

Once again we were not playing on our regular day as Thursday was also a Thai Public Holiday, but all 18 of us were looking forward to the challenge of playing the ever-improving Pleasant Valley Golf Course.

We gave a hearty welcome to first timer Rob Heath from Cairns in Queensland, Australia and it was good to see Pattaya resident Rita Zoebeli, formerly of Switzerland, back playing with us again. We wished Bon Voyage to PSC Treasurer Graham Buckingham who is heading off to “The Old Dart” to see Mum for three weeks.

Departing the Kronny at 0815hrs on the dot we arrived at the course 40 minutes later to find quite a few vehicles in the car park and it was apparent that there was no rush, although our first group were able to tee off 15 minutes ahead of schedule at 0945hrs.

The weather was fantastic and the golf course looked a treat despite having received plenty of rain recently. It soon became very hot and humid and stops for drinks were the order of the day but despite that we completed our first nine in just under two hours and the whole journey took four hours and five minutes.

The scores on the day were mostly excellent with half the field playing to their handicap or better. Mike Gosden had a welcome return to form and easily won the A Flight with a well compiled 42 points. On 39 points a count-back was necessary to separate second and third with last Thursday’s winner Bjarne Kjaer just edging out Aussie Paul Avery. Recovering from bad health, veteran Ted Morris scored a fine 38 points to finish fourth.

After her 40 points at Rayong on Tuesday Marie Rowles followed up with a fabulous 44 points to again win the B Flight. There were three golfers seven points further back on 37 and a count-back determined that Mike Winfield finished second from Hugh O’Donnell in third and Dave “The Admiral” Richardson bringing up the rear in fourth place.

A Flight (0-17)
1st Mike Gosden (10) 42pts
2nd Bjarne Kjaer (17) 39pts
3rd Paul Avery (10) 39pts
4th Ted Morris (14) 38pts
B Flight (18+)
1st Marie Rowles (23) 44pts
2nd Mike Winfield (20) 37pts
3rd Hugh O’Donnell (20) 37pts
4th Dave Richardson (20) 37pts
Long Putt: Graham Buckingham

Lionel Rowles, Marie’s husband completed an award, winning double on the day by taking the Compass Cap for the worst score, and Deefa the Dog satisfied his appetite by collecting numerous donations for local charity.

Ray sparkles at Emerald

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, May 5, Emerald – Stableford

Tuesday saw a visit down to Ban Chang for our monthly game at Emerald, where the course was in good condition following some recent greens work. Several of the tees are being re-grassed so were playing quite short, but as they say, same for everybody, so away we go.

Ray Spence (H/cap 18) has been coming to grips more and more with competitive golf, after a period of friendly games, and he really hit the high notes today to shoot a fine 42 points. Jimmy Fortune (27) shot the lights out on the back 9 to edge Jeff Wylie (5) on count-back, 22 to 18, after both had signed for 37 points.

Technical prizes were spread around amongst Chris, Lol, Dave & Joel.

Thursday, May 12, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Thursday was a sojourn to Khao Kheow, with the C & A Nines to be our test de jour. Again the course was in good condition, although today the golf execution left a little to be desired.

Leading the way home was Dave Edwards (16) with 31 points, followed in by Shrewsbury visitor Keith Hudson (20) with 29.

Technicals were snared by Keith and Jeff with 2, while 1 went unclaimed

Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf usually on Tuesdays & Thursdays, although we do sometimes change to suit a Public Holiday. For bookings or information on venues call 089 094 1841. Hope to see you there, Cheers & Good Golfing!

Two wins for Ted

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Winners from Greenwood on May 7: Adam Oyston, Jeff Boylan, Peter Shaw and Ted Senior.

Barry Hooper

Well another week of golf completed at the TRGG and one that Ted Senior will remember for sure.

He went out on Saturday the 7th at Greenwood and made the day his own with a great win from 37 points; three up on his nearest rival David Booth (34) who only held onto second after beating Fergus Brennan on count-back.

But Ted bettered that score on Thursday the 12th at Phoenix for yet another fine win, this time with 39 points and again three clear of second placed Stephen Smith at 36. Brendan Moore was third with 35 and again only after a count-back over Llew Matthews, whom I notice was playing off a -2 handicap, and Lin Moore (not sure if she is related to Brendan or not). We don’t have many -2 handicappers playing amongst us these days.
So very well Done Ted – Well deserved wins and good shooting

Monday’s visit to Mountain Shadow saw a win for Mike Shackleton with 34 points on the day, and a one point advantage over Peter Farhill (33) and David Booth back in third at 32.

I am very happy to see that Kay and Tony Molloy have joined us again from Ireland. Always nice to see old faces returning. Kay picked up fourth spot at 30 points as did her husband Tony on the Saturday with 32 and then 34 on Tuesday at Green Valley. So it seems that both of them are starting to get their games back in order under local conditions.

Tuesday brought out a big attendance at Green Valley so two flights had to be arranged. Div 1 saw Brendan Moore top listed at 37 but only after pushing Tewin Lamthong down to second on count-back. He is always managing to do that these days it seems. Third was decided by way of yet another three-way count-back, this time between Bill McGarvie, Fergus Brennan and Peter Karhu, all with 36’s.
Div 2 saw a great 39 points from Geff Boylan for the win after he found himself a full three up on Gary Hookey. Third place honours went to L. Symons (sorry don’t know what the L stands for) as he beat Tony Molloy on count-back, both of them on 34.

Saturday, May 7, Greenwood C&A - Stableford

1st Ted Senior (11) 37pts
2nd David,Booth (13) 34pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (11) 34pts
4th Tony Molloy (13) 32pts
1st Jeff Boylan (24) 37pts
2nd Adam Oyston (21) 33pts
3rd Peter Shaw (22) 32pts
4th G. Williams (17) 31pts

Monday, May 9, Mountain Shadow - Stableford

1st Mike Shackleton (10) 34pts
2nd Peter Karhill (12) 33pts
3rd David Booth (13) 32pts
4th Kay Molloy (29) 30pts

Tuesday, May 10, Green Valley - Stableford

A Flight
1st Brendan Moore (11) 37pts
2nd Tewin Lamthong (12) 37pts
3rd Bill McGarvie (9) 36pts
4th Fergus Brennan (11) 36pts
5th Peter Karhu (12) 36pts
B Flight
1st Jeff Boylan (24) 39pts
2nd Gary Hookey (16) 36pts
3rd L. Symons (19) 34pts
4th Tony Molloy (13) 34pts

Thursday, May 12, Phoenix (Mountain & Ocean) - Stableford

1st Ted Senior (12) 39pts
2nd Stephen Smith (21) 36pts
3rd Brendan Moore (11) 35pts
4th Llew Matthews (-2) 35pts
5th Lin Moore (29) 35pts

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 call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at the notice board or visit their website at www.trgg.biz.

Pilkington picks up top prize on Golden Elephant tour

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Alan Pilkington, right, is presented with the Golden Elephant trophy by Glyn Evans.

This was our 14th annual trip to Hua Hin and as always it consisted of a 72-hole competition spread over 4 days with an individual two divisional contest on each round for the men.

We had dispensed with the cars this year and instead booked two mini buses to ferry us on the 5 hour trip to Hua Hin on the Saturday and then spend a relaxing afternoon and the next day wandering around the town.

According to our research, this year one of our favourite courses, Majestic, was not up to scratch so we switched to Springfield instead. The Banyan Tree was ruled out owing to its cost so we would be playing everyone’s number 1 selection, Black Mountain, twice.

Monday, May 9,
Palm Hills - Stableford

There were 19 players listed for the trip this year, but there are only 17 made it to the tee for the first day at Palm Hills. The cut was 1-18 in division 1 and 19 + in division 2 and the course was still in good condition and the majority enjoy the round.

Playing off 18, the best score of the day came in from Kari Aarnio in division 1 with 42 points. Pete Sumner, off 8, was second with 36 and Andy Baber took third with 33.

Lee Casey won division 2 with 34 points and ‘count-back’ Burnie was second one point behind with Terry Redding lying third with 32.

In the ‘2’s Trevor Schrimer birdied the 8th and Pete Sumner the 11th to share the purse in division 1, while there were none in division 2.

Tuesday, May 10, Black Mountain - Stableford

Everybody’s number 1 choice here and it is still in immaculate condition. There are a few improvements going on throughout the course but this is expected at this time of year.

Alan Pilkington, playing off 8, won division 1 with 39 points while Barry Winton, improving every game and off 4, was second with 36. In third place with 32 points was Pete Sumner.

The Lambourn boy Steve Ironside took out division 2 with 35 points, with the count-back boy second 1 point behind and in third place with 33 was Terry Redding.
Alan Pilkington secured the ‘2’s purse in division 1 while Burnie Sinclair and Kevin Tobin, playing in the same group, birdied the 3rd and 14th to split the rollover pot in the second flight.

Thursday, May 12, Springfield - Stableford

Another popular course, the Jack Nickalaus designed Springfield today, and with 19 out the cut was up to 17 in division 1.

We were playing the original 18 holes and these played tough, especially on the back nine. Russell Exley came in with 38 points to win division 1 ahead of Trevor Schrimer in second two points behind, and Andy Baber beat Paul Renall and Barry Winton on a 17/15/13 back nine count-back for third after they all finished with 34 points.

The organizer bounced back to win division 2 today with 37 points and count-back Burnie was second one point behind while Kevin Tobin took third with 33 points.

Paul Renall from division 1 and Andy Baber from division 2 birdied the 6th and 17th respectively to take the purse in the ‘2’s.

In the lead now after three rounds was Burnie Sinclair on 103 points, closely followed by Alan Pilkington (102), Kari Aarnio (102), Pete Sumner (102) and Barry Winton (98).

Friday, May 13,
Black Mountain - Stableford

Our last round of the trip and everything was up for grabs, including the ladies prize for the lowest score. It had been a remarkable week of golf on great courses and with a fantastic friendly group.

After scoring only 16 points in the first round on Monday, the organizer came in today with a division 2 winning 40 points but he did not feature in the overall top placings. Kevin Tobin was second in the division with 36 points and Lee Casey beat Steve Ironside on a 18/17 back nine count-back for third.

In form at the moment Alan Pilkington headed division 1 after beating Paul Renall 16/14 on the back 9 after they tied with 36 points, and John Lay was third after beating Trevor Schrimer on a 19/15 count-back.

Marty Aronson won the ladies prize for the lowest score of the four rounds, which he did not expect and was not happy with his presentation prize, after he was asked to be photographed.

There were four ‘2’s in division 1 sharing a meagre prize; Paul Renall on the 3rd and 8th, Trevor Schrimer on the 8th and Pete Sumner on the 3rd again. Andy Baber birdied the 11th for the division 2 purse.

After four rounds of golf a great week and well done to the winners. Congratulations to Alan Pilkington from all of us at Siam Cats and Jomtien Golf for winning this years Golden Elephant Trophy.

Overall Standings (4 days)
1st Alan Pilkington 138pts
2nd Kari Aarnio 134pts
3rd Pete Sumner 133pts
4th Paul Renall 131pts
5th Trevor Schrimer 131pts

Trant on top at Greenwood

PSC golf from The Caddy Shack

Wednesday, May 11, Greenwood – Stroke

A round dozen players turned up at Greenwood on Wednesday to tackle the C&B layout. Damian Trant saw a return to form with a flight topping net 71 to push Les Hall and Mike Phillips into second and third respectively.
Mike Phillips got the only ’2’ of the day.
1st Damian Trant (11) net 71
2nd Les Hall (20) net 73
3rd Mike Phillips (12) net 74

Friday, May 13, St. Andrews – Stableford

Seventeen golfers at St. Andrews on Friday so the group was split into two flights.
Emmet White was the top scorer of the day with 38 points to win the A flight from Helmut Hebstreit while Chris Walsh (36pts) captured B Flight glory ahead of Mike Pledger.
Ted Gardner and Dave Strang split the ‘2’s pot between them.

A Flight
1st Emmet White (12) 38pts
2nd Helmut Hebstreit (12) 37pts
B Flight
1st Chris Walsh (25) 36pts
2nd Mike Pledger (18) 35pts

Maddox a clear winner at Pleasant Valley

PSC golf from The Fairways Golf Society

Friday’s top three, Scott Dobbin, Alan Pilkington and Dave Done with Fairways club house staff.

Monday, May 2, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Quiet a good turn out today as it was a bank holiday. As usual the course was in excellent condition and the weather was fine.

Two players shot sub-par scores with 37 points and Ed Wycliffe took the top honours with a back nine count back of 21-17 over Richard Hurley.

Near pins went to Alan Pilkington, Billy Vickers, Scott Dobbin and Ed Wycliffe.

1st Ed Wycliffe (9) 37pts
2nd Richard Hurley (11) 37pts
3rd Jon Haugen (6) 34pts
Wednesday, May 4, Pleasant Valley – Stableford

We arrived at the course today and found it virtually empty so we had very nice leisurely round of golf with no hold ups. Unfortunately all the bunkers had hardly any sand in them as it had all been washed away by the heavy rains they have had up here. The greens were a little bit on the slow side for the same reason but the fairways were in excellent shape.

Only one golfer managed to break par (Mr. Consistency) Brian Maddox with 37 points. Richard Hurley just missed a four foot eagle putt but made sure of his birdie and snatched second place from Tony Duthieon on the last green to beat him on a back nine count back of 18-15.

Near pins went to Tony Duthie and Richard Hurley.

1st Brian Maddox (20) 37pts
2nd Richard Hurley (11) 33pts
3rd Tony Duthie (19) 33pts
Friday, May 6, Greenwood - Stableford

When we arrived we were informed that golf carts could not go on the fairways as they had had so much rain the day before, so we decided to play winter rules of ‘pick clean and place’. Shortly after we started we found that it was totally unnecessary to do so as the course was in its normal magnificent condition.

Again we had the course to ourselves so we had a nice clear round. Scott Dobbin returned to form to take the honours from the consistent Alan Pilkington..

Near pins went to Alan Pilkington, Dave Done, Peter Anderson and Richard Hurley.

1st Scott Dobbin (0) 37pts
2nd Alan Pilkington (7) 36pts
3rd Dave Done (15) 34pts

Notee: The Fairways Driving Range is situated at the top of Pattaya Klang on Sukhumvit Road and the society plays every Sun/Mon/Wed & Fri. Anyone wishing to play with us can call into the club house and put their names down on the lists provided or call Scott on 084 389 2379. Transport provided if required.

Winton on the warpath at IPGC monthly

Wednesday, May 4, saw IPGC members gather at Pattaya Country Club for the first time in a long time for the latest IPGC Members’ Tournament of the year. The course was reasonably well presented, the weather stayed fine and the rate offered for the day was well worth it.

Each monthly member’s tournament provides three winners in the divisions and one from the ladies, who will go forward to the finals to compete for the Gold and Silver Medals later in the season. In addition the tournaments will also be used to determine the IPGC Gentleman Player of the Year, with between 1 and 15 points to be won in each division every month, dependant on final positions, which will then be aggregated for the year to establish the overall winner.

As usual the first division contests a stroke play format whilst the second, third and Ladies’ division play Stableford.

In the first division the competition for the minor placings was very close with Al Keith’s net 73 contesting the runner-up place with Wichai Tananusorn but losing out on count-back 34.5 to 38.5. The winner by a long way was Barry Winton who played his best golf in a while with gross 74, net 70.

The second division played stableford and was also a competitive affair as Toni Lonquist took third with 38 points, one behind Lyle Blaw’s 38. The flight winner, with the best score of the day, was Brian Talbot and his 40 points gave him happy memories of a course he had not played before.

Similarly in the third division one point was enough to separate the principals with Burnie Sinclair finishing third on 37 points with Sid Ottaway’s 38 taking second. The flight was won by Marti Aaronson with his score of 39 points.

In the 2’s competitions there were nine birdies, with Barry Winton and Lyle Blaw nabbing a brace each, Trevor Schirmer, Colin James, Larry Slattery, Jim Ferris and Brian Talbot completing the list. The near-pins winners are listed below.

After the tournament the golfers enjoyed the usual fine presentation buffet at the Links Bar in Soi Buakhao. The function and prizes were generously sponsored as always by the IPGC, and those who had contributed to the success of the day were warmly thanked. They included the perpetual Registrar Glyn Evans, Results Coordinator Stephen Beard and the hard working event organiser Russell Exley.

The full list of results can be seen on the excellent official IPGC website at http://www.ipgc.org

Division 1
1st Barry Winton (4) net 70
2nd Wichai Tananusorn (13) net 73
3rd Al Keith (5) net 73
Division 2
1st Brian Talbot 40pts
2nd Lyle Blaw 39pts
3rd Toni Lonquist 38pts
Division 3
1st Marty Aaronson 39pts
2nd Sid Ottaway 38pts
3rd Burnie Sinclair 37pts

Near Pins: Kari Kuparainen, Barry Winton (3), Paul Butler, Colin James, Lyle Blaw, Toni Lonnquist, Jim Ferris, Sid Ottaway

Khao Kheow back to back

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper

Well it was that time again where I had to sit down and scribe another report of the TRGG activities for the week. At first I did not see a lot in the reports of the matches that really grabbed my attention. Then I spotted that they had been to one course Khao Kheow twice in the same week. It is very rare that they do that. In fact I could not remember them doing it before. So I gave Fergus a ring and asked what had brought it about.

Fergus Brennan – winner of the last outing in April at Greenwood.

Apparently their regular Thursday course Pheonix did what they have been doing a lot of lately and shot themselves in the foot yet again by upping the costs (Holiday) beyond what is acceptable to the TRGG. So the group cancelled and sought an alternative. That is becoming a bit of a habit it seems.

They were playing at Khao Kheow (itself not one of the cheapest courses around) on Tuesday and when approached they came up with an offer for a return back to them on the Thursday that was most acceptable. So the playing of Khao Kheow back to back was the outcome.

Saturday, April 30, Greenwood C&A - Stableford
1st Fergus Brennan (11) 33pts
2nd Mike Rushant (12) 32pts
3rd Jon Dean (10) 31pts
4th Bill McGarvie (9) 31pts

Greenwood was our first port of call in the week on Saturday with a fair number in attendance. The numbers are definitely picking up again. I was actually at the presentation and was promptly advised by many who had returned that the course had been the winner on the day.

No apparent reason was forthcoming and the actual winner was in fact Fergus Brennan with just 33 points followed in by Mike Rushant at 32 and Jon Dean one more back at 31 for third. So the low scores had prevailed hence the earlier comment from the players about the course.

Monday, May 2, Plutaluang N&S- Stableford
A Flight
1st Bill McGarvie (9) 33pts
2nd Mike Shackleton (10) 32pts
3rd Paul Scholes (11) 32pts
B Flight
1st Mike Rushant (13) 36pts
2nd Andrew Rich (20) 31pts
3rd Brian Foster (16) 31pts

The first outing for the new month and Plutaluang was the course choice with a good turnout and two divisions. Still low scoring though and only one score stood out and that was the winner of Div 2 and Mike Rushant with his 36 points -a considerably better showing than the Saturday outing for his second spot.

Andrew Rich and Brian Foster fought out a count-back for the second and third places both at 31.

Bill Mcgarvie, who had been shoved to fourth by count-back on the Saturday, shone on the day and came home with the Div 1 win but still with only 33 points. Once again it was count-back check out for the second and third places, this time between Mike Shackleton and Paul Scholes both with 32.

Tuesday, May 3, Khao Kheow A&B - Stableford
A Flight
1st Fergus Brennan (11) 36pts
2nd Ted Senior (11) 36pts
3rd Noel Pittard (6) 34pts
4th Robert Bjorkqvist (10) 34pts
B Flight
1st Billy Allan (14) 39pts
2nd David Booth (13) 39pts
3rd Mod Chaviraksa (12) 38pts
4th Jeff Boylan (24) 36pts

Tuesday, and the first visit of the week to Khao Kheow with a very good attendance and two divisions played. The course was in great condition.

The scores were up on this day with 39’s taking first and second in Div 2, coming from Billy Allan and David Booth (count-back decision) and 36’s the first division for Fergus Brennan and Ted Senior (count-back again). Third and fourth in Div 1 was yet another count-back between Noel Pittard and Robert Bjorkqvist, both with 34’s, and third alone in Div 2 was Mod Chaviraksa with 38.

Thursday, May 5, Khao Kheow C&A - Stableford
1st Ted Senior (11) 35pts
2nd Noel Pittard (7) 35pts
3rd Peter Davies (23) 34pts
4th Derek Thorogood (16) 33pts
5th Mod Chaviraksa (11) 31pts

We went back to Khao Kheow again on Thursday with a fair attendance considering it was a return visit.

Ted Senior returned it seems with just one thing on his mind - a win - particularly after him being pushed down to second on the Tuesday by count-back. Well a win is what he got albeit after another count-back over Noel Pittard (who had been third on the Tuesday), both of them with 35’s. Peter Davies was third with his 34.

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 0860567019 or call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at the notice board or visit their website at www.trgg.biz.

Neville comes good at Emerald

The Backyard Golf Society

After the high scores of the previous week there was only one way to go on another blistering hot day at Emerald Golf Course, and that was back to a dose of reality. Nine players this week and with everyone in all competitions we again completed the round in under 4 hours. Once all the results were in Neville came out on top with 35 points and John Mac took second on count-back from Dan M with 33.

Neville, left, celebrates his win with one of the staff members outside Mama’s Bar.

With the tee put back on the nearest the pin hole it was somewhat of a surprise that Dangle managed to hit the green and take the prize as he is the first guy to do this since Geoff went back to England some time ago.

Skin results were as follows: Neville (5), Andy Oz (4), John Mac (30), Dan M (3), Dangle (2) and finally Terry C (1).

After prize giving, we all went down to Ban Chang for a few cold ones and to wish Ya from Senorita’s Bar a very happy birthday.

Tore finishes on top

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society visited Rayong C.C. on Monday, 2nd May, to play a stableford competition on the course which was in reasonable condition but very dry. However the extremely generous green fee package more than provided value for money on the May public holiday.

The field was reduced to a single flight as a result of many PGS friends returning to their home bases after a fine warm winter in the Land of Smiles but the competition was nevertheless tight and competitive.

Sharing fourth place were Larry Bland and Garry Hookey on thirty-five points, whilst Jim Ferris and Brian Talbot tied for second with 37 points each. Ending his stay this visit, Tore Eliassen bade a memorable adieu to the group with a score of 42 points for an excellent victory.

The ‘2’s pot was shared by Brian Talbot and Wichai Tananusorn, the latter taking the lion’s share after recording birdies on the fifth and twelfth. The Booby Bevy was reserved for Peter Ditz on his final appearance before returning to Europe after his nineteen points on the front nine saw a return of only ten on the back to leave him in the nether regions of the field instead of challenging at the top.

Once again the day was very capably marshalled by John Mason but, unlike previous occasions, the heat of the day got to the less than effervescent “boss” and he wilted after his epic performances of the previous week.

Masa makes good at Bangpra

Bangpra was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society on Friday, 6th May, when the Soi Buakhao based group visited to play a monthly merit stableford event on the course which was looking much better than on the previous visit. The large field was divided into two flights at sixteen and under and play got underway on time in warm and humid conditions.

In the second flight Jim Ferris came third with 32 points, just one behind Brian Shaw on 33. The flight winner was lady golfer Orawan Meeraka with 34 points.

In the top flight Joe Nissato and Brian Talbot tied for third with 32 points. Rob Lamond’s gross of 79 was the best of the day and the 34 points it gave him were enough to put him in second place. The flight winner, with the day’s best points score, was Masa Takano, returning to minus par territory again with 37 points.

The only birdie ‘2’ of the day was recorded by Gubbi Innvaer on the second and John Mason’s final choice of the Booby Bevy winner was Garry Hookey whose front nine total of eight points was upstaged by his back nine of 22 points!

At the presentation back in Rabbi’s Mr Len awarded Larry Slattery his ‘Player of the Month’ award for April and thanked John Mason for his fine support this trip, and all the hard work he had put in behind the scenes as well. Both return to Europe soon and they will be missed by their golf friends at PGS.

Lyle Blaw does the double

IPGC golf from The Haven

Sunday, May 1, Green Valley – Stableford
CSS 71
1st Lyle Blaw (12) 40pts
2nd Joe McArdle (12) 40pts
3rd Russell Goldsworthy (2) 38pts
4th Ger Lodge (20) 36pts
5th Joe Peters (17) 35pts

No, it is not a re-print from last week, but the first two past the post were the same with Lyle Blaw scoring exactly the same as the previous Sunday at Green Valley, and Joe McArdle coming second having improved three shots over last week’s result. Lyle, having dropped a shot on Sunday, then ran up four scores over the buffer zone to take him back out to 12 but the fractions will ensure that it will not re-occur this time.

Lyle Blaw.

Lyle just ran out the winner on the day with a better count-back of 21 to 20 over the back nine.

The May Day weather was extremely hot and humid making the scores of the top players even more commendable with Russell Goldsworthy slipping in yet another level par round, and one is left wondering what sort of scores he would be returning if he played more than once a week.

Ger Lodge also had a good day at level par on handicap to pip friend and playing partner Joe Peters for fourth place.

There were no 2’s on the day.

As usual the presentations were conducted and overseen by Russell Exley at the Golf Centre Bar on the course, with amiable hosts John and Geoff assisted by their lovely staff, taking excellent care of the golfers.

Monday, May 2, Century Chonburi - Stableford
CSS72
1st Al Keith (5) 36pts
2nd Bill Bertram (9) 32pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (14) 29pts
4th Lyle Blaw (12) 28pts

After a hiatus of several months the Soi 13 group took on the sometimes previously less than inviting Century Chonburi layout but this time the course was discovered to be in a very acceptable condition and although it was found to be a bit untidy in places, the cost of the day at 750 baht for green fee, caddy and half a cart, was outstanding value considering that it was a national holiday and most of the other courses were charging more than double that rate.

Al Keith.

Al Keith picked up another win as he stroked it round in level handicap without seeming to ruffle a hair and as usual no sign of panic, even after the odd wayward shot. It was just a solid workmanlike round with that silky unhurried swing. Playing partner Bill Bertram struggled to keep pace with the scoring but did just enough to claim second place on his first outing with The Haven group.

Trevor Schirmer got the better on in-form Lyle Blair by a single shot, compliments of the last hole where he slipped in a birdie putt.

Whilst there were no 2’ in the second division, Al Keith and Bill Bertram shared the pool in the first division.

Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member Bill Bertram who, if reports can be relied upon, will soon be heading back down from his present handicap to two or below although the day’s results did not quite reflect that scenario.

Friday, May 6, The Emerald - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Trevor Schirmer (14) 40pts
2nd Mathew Reynolds (24) 33pts
3rd Barry Winton (4) 33pts
4th Bill Bertram (9) 32pts

After missing out on Wednesday when all the players were competing in the IPGC Monthly Medals it was back to a normal competition at Emerald where due to popular demand the local rule for the day was ‘lift and place’ in the fairways to compensate for the condition of the lies and the hardness of the ground beneath. In the event, the conditions were quite good in most areas although this did not show in the scores returned for the day.

Trevor Schirmer.

Once again the weather was extremely hot and humid with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees centigrade and the humidity akin to four hours in the sauna room.

Trevor Schirmer was the exception to the field as he went round in his lowest score for two years, easily winning by seven clear. In spite of having a pretty ordinary day from the tee, his round was highlighted by exceptional chipping and putting when after missing a short one from two feet on the first for a bogey, the rest on the round was a master class in recovery golf..

Mathew Reynolds took a podium position on his first outing with the group by winning the count-back over Barry Winton with a better 18 to 16 as Barry tired badly following his herculean effort two days previously when he had won the first division in the IPGC Medals.

Back at The Haven there was a welcome for new member Mathew Reynolds and a welcome back for Barry Winton, who was back after back surgery and having made it a full set by losing on the back nine on his comeback.

Although the greens were in near perfect condition nobody in either division could manage a 2.

Note: As from the 1st of May the Haven group will depart Soi 13 at the earlier time of 8.30 a.m. until further notice. 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 8.00 on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and 9.00am on 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.

Wira leaves on a high

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, May 1, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Gordon Wallace (15) 40pts
2nd Bob Newell (5) 38pts
B Flight
1st Jan Eriksen (18) 39pts
2nd Mark Bonner (15) 38pts

Near Pins: Garry Blackburne, Einar Widness, Terry Mangan, Yui Bietry

With the Co. Offaly gang heading back to Ireland with their pockets lined with the society’s loot and monthly medal, it was Gordon Wallace who did the best work on the day in the premier flight as evidenced by his rock solid 40 points. Bob ‘Seamless’ Newell appears to have well and truly put his run of health problems behind him as his 38 points was good for the silver.

‘Snowball’ winner Terry Mangan.

Jan ‘the silent one’ stole the show in the junior flight with a steady 39 point return. Mussels Bonner cashed in on his last game before returning to his London cab duty, with a more than useful 38 points.

Yui Bietry, Garry Blackburne, Thierry Petremont, and Einar Widness shared the 2’s pot.

Back at the ranch it was sad to see Mussels head back home, the same could not be said of the Offaly Gang, but the Irish had the last say as Terry Mangan won the snowball and graciously rang the bell.

Tuesday, May 3, Khao Kheow A&B – Stableford
1st Jon Haugen (7) 33pts
2nd Peter Hynard (14) 31pts
3rd Tore Eliassen (14) 31pts

A relatively modest group (attribute to the season) took on the favorite of many, Khao Kheow. The scores reflected the difficulty of the A&B layout and John Haugen, a regular visitor to the pay window, was top performer on the day with a modest 33 points.

Jon was followed up the podium steps by old friends Peter ‘the right Honorable’ Hynard and Tore Eliassen; the order of accent was determined by count-back.

Jon Haugen, John Heaney and Einar Widness shared the 2’s pot.

Wednesday, May 4,Bangpra - Stableford
1st Wira Siduang (10) 41pts
2nd Jan Erikssen (18) 36pts
3rd Gordon Wallace (15) 33pts

There was no man of the match, but there was a lady of the match as Wira Siduang put a 41 point lashing on the field. Jon ‘the quite one’ carded an even par round for second place. Gordon Wallace got the right result in a count-back to fill the podium over the unlucky Tore Eliassen.

Friday, May 6,The Emerald - Stableford
A Flight
1st Wira Siduang (10) 39pts
2nd Jimmy Day (15) 36pts
3rd Pierre Bietry (15) 35pts
B Flight
1st Barry Oats (27) 36pts
2nd Joe Tynan (29) 34pts
3rd Jim Elphick (23) 34pts

As is so often the case, a player’s vacation ends just as he or she finds her form and Wira Siduang experienced just that. Wira cashed 39 points to take the A Flight and the match honours for the second victory on her last week before returning to the tepid weather of Oslo, Norway. The society whishes Wira and Einar all the best, especially Wira with her amended handicap.

Jimmy vice Captain Day showed he is ready for the upcoming challenge as he edged Pierre the Captain elect by a single shot for second.

Barry Oats shot even par for top spot in the junior flight; this made also-rans out of Joe ‘Sat-Nav’ Tynan and Jimmy ‘Two shots’ Elphick - Joe gaining a count-back decision over Jimmy.

Pity Wira’s old man Einar never made the podium but he did cop a super 2’s rollover to easily take care of the Taxi to the airport.

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.

Pilkington on pole at Greenwood

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

 

Tuesday’s winners with one of Bert’s finest.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, May 3, Greenwood – Stableford

Nobody minds going to Greenwood these days, in fact it is quite a favourite. While we were going out there we were reminiscing about the ‘ good old days’ and what a trip to this golf course used to mean (at least a full hour plus and down back roads, Sukhumvit in all its worst years, and all in all a place we used to not want to go to).

Now it is a bimble up there and a nice relaxing drive. Indeed I was talking to A Laurie who said he was driving up there relaxed and found he was not even keeping up with the speed limit and was seriously behind his slow, slow drive time. Now that is what I call a bimble. He did just make it however.

Booking in here is usually a quick process and so it proved on this day, so it was soon changed and onto the course where we found we would be playing the C & A nines in that order. There was no one in sight as we teed off and we hoped for a quick round, and so it proved for a few holes, until we suddenly hit a wall and 5-balls were in front of us as far as we could see. Yes we had time all the way around to have a sit down and discuss the state of the world. Mind, the weather was not too bad.

 

April ‘golfer of the month’ Mashi at one of Greenwood’s par 5’s.

The course was in reasonable condition and the stops were nice and cold. Suffice to say we got around and it was better than working. It was a quick shower, a stop in the restaurant and a nice slow and relaxed trip back to Bert’s where all were gathered for the results and Bert’s ‘Golfers Special, then onto the results.

In first place today with 40 points was Frank Pilkington ahead of Mike O’Brien in second place with 37. In third place was Daryl Evans with 36 points ahead of Brian Parish in fourth on count-back ahead of Mashi, both with 35 points.

We also had the ‘Golfer of the Month’ for April award to be handed out and the winner was Mashi Kenata. Well done Mashi. T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: Barry Elphick, Neil Shaw, Frank Moniz, Derek Brook
Long Putt: Al Laurie, Dick Warberg

Pattaya hosts inaugural Columbia Trail Masters race at Khao Mai Kheow

‘Dolphins’ season in danger of unraveling after defeat by Police United

Pattaya Cricket Club sink Singapore Spirits

Air Sea Land Games held to honour His Majesty the King

Ferrari chief raises possibility of F1 breakaway

Nothing Bland about Larry IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

Flor breaks his duck for 2011 PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Aussie 1,2,3 at Khao Kheow PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg

Ray sparkles at Emerald

Two wins for Ted

Pilkington picks up top prize on Golden Elephant tour

Trant on top at Greenwood

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20