|
Buoyant Bartley’s boomers
Phoenix Tuesday/Friday Golf Group
Tuesday winners with the staff
at The Relax Bar.
Mike Gerrard
A great day on the slopes of Phoenix today, Friday, March
16. It’s strange, now that the high season is coming to a close the course
is getting better.
Big John Bartley bossed us around again today with a
sparkling 40 points (he can be sure to be cut when the PSC get his scores).
In second place was Bill Hewitt with 38 points (usually
enough to win), and in third place was Goort Gelten with 36 points.
Near Pins went to Richard Baldwin (2) and John Bartley.
The remaining near pin was not won so it went into the lucky draw. Winners
were Granville Swanton, Mike Gerrard and Mukesh Thakker.
Onto Sunday, March 18, and it was yours truly who took
the spoils today with 38 points, with John Bartley continuing his fine form
even though he had been cut a couple of shots, scoring 37 points, and Bill
Hewitt third with 32 points.
Tuesday, March 20 was our main day his week (as is every
week) and this weeks sponsor Nemo Music Lounge donated a lovely sports shirt
to our best player of the day. After a long time increasing his handicap it
was inevitable that Patrick Browne would shoot the lights out eventually. He
scored a fine 39 points to win the day. Second was Harvey Trewarn scoring 36
points and enjoying his vacation from Australia, with David Czernie and Bob
Neylon sharing third place with 34 points each.
Near pins today went to Hugh Byrne, Juan Martin, Bill
Hewitt & Herbie Schwieterman.
Lucky draw prizes always donated by the Relax Bar went to
Stuart Gordon, Sergio Volpi & Mike Gerrard.
As of the 1st April 2012, Phoenix Golf Club will be
charging the following green fee rates to guests and visitors: Monday,
Wednesday & Friday the green fees will be 900 Baht per 18 holes. Tuesday &
Thursday the green fees will be 800 Baht per 18 holes.
We continue to play every Tuesday, Friday & Sunday. So
anyone who would like to try our little group is welcome. However please
note that we do not allow more than 28 handicap maximum and we would expect
anyone who would like to join us to be competent to play within that level.
We also run fortnightly sea fishing trips so for more
information about golf and fishing, please call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565.
|
|
 |
Coulon clobbers the field at Pattaya Country Club
PSC Golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Monday, March 19, Burapha
– Stableford
With some 60 Outbackers down in Hua Hin for their three
day comp. there were just twelve players today at Burapha playing the A & B
nines, being run by the capable hands of Joe Mooneyham. Since there was a
heavy storm the previous day and night it was decided by all to play from
the white tees rather than the usual blue tees. It was cart path only and
very wet in places and some of the bunkers still had water in them, so it
was also lift, clean and place on the fairways and closely mowed areas.
The long hitting Jim Brackett tore the course apart from
the shorter tees shooting 42 points off his 6 H’cp for a gross 72! Well done
Jim. Another golfer in form at present is Bob Lindborg who was a winner last
Friday at the 16th Annual Pattaya Sports Club Charity Tournament at Green
Valley and today came in second place shooting 39 points off his 20 H’cp.
Rounding out the top four was Greg Hill (18) with 38 points for third place
and fourth was Doug Douglas (22) with 37 points.
Jack Piercefield had the only “2” of the day.
Tuesday, March 20, Pattaya
C.C. – Stableford
Pattaya Country Club is in its final throws as a full 18
hole course as it prepares to shut down the back nine for course
improvements. There were 13 players but only one real player as J.C. Coulon
accumulated a massive 46pts to win by a country mile and lose 5 shots off
his handicap in the process. Rumour has it that our organiser, Chad, also
shot a massive score a day earlier (Monday) and will soon see his handicap
dropping sharply back to his pre-operation days.
Plenty of girls in the shake up too, with Noy (39pts) in
second place, leading the charge, from fourth placed Orn (38pts), with John
Cogan squeezing in between them to take third on countback, also with 38pts
and Laong (36pts) back in sixth place.
1st Jean-Claude Coulon (31/Hi31.8)
46pts
2nd Noy Kamsantia (20/Hi19.9) 39pts
3rd John Cogan (18/Hi18.8) 38pts
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
call Jack on 087 941 2474.
|
|
Smith and Jones spotted at Emerald
IPGC Golf from Rabbi’s Elephant Bar
The week began for the Pattaya Golf Society with a trip
to Emerald to play a stableford competition on the popular course which was
in fine condition with quick greens. The day was humid and conditions were
eased by an intermittent cool breeze.
The field was divided into two flights at fifteen and
under. In the top flight Mike Earley and Peter Seward held down third place
with 33 points, just one behind the joint winners Haru Kato and Chris Smith,
the latter playing his first round this year with PGS, off his handicap of
one. Seventy-five off the sticks at Emerald is a worthy round and he is to
be congratulated for the quality of his golf with thirteen pars, one birdie
and four bogeys.
In the second flight Ken Page again made the list with 35
points for third, with James Smith , brother of Chris, taking second with 36
points. The only sub-par round of the day was recorded by Mr Len, his 37
points putting a smile on his face once again.
Haru Kato picked up the ‘2’s pot for the only birdie of
the day on the seventh and the Booby Bevy went to John Mason after regaling
his playing partners all round with the story of his ace on the thirteenth a
year ago. This time he managed to increase his score on the hole by 500%!
Golf at Emerald is always a fine way to start a week.
Takano & Hansen winners at
Phoenix
The Pattaya Golf Society visited Phoenix for the first
time in many months on Wednesday, 21st March to play a stableford
competition over the Mountain and Lakes nines on the expensive course which
were in good order.
The two flights were separated at nineteen and under and
in the second flight Yvonne Earley joined Mr Len in second place with 30
points on her final round this trip. The flight winner was Benny Hansen who
recorded 34 points.
In the top flight Dave Moriarty and Greg Gawron shared
third place with 31 points whilst Stuart Thompson went one better to take
second with 32. The flight winner was Masanori Takano, also playing his
final round and his 34 points marked the end of successful trip.
There were no birdie ‘2’s on the slick greens and David
Thomas finally received the Booby Bevy as a reward for some really poor golf
by his own impeccable standards and it will be sad to see the honorary “club
captain” leave for a sheep farm in Australia at the end of the week. The
things people do to stay away from Phoenix and its obsession with cash!
Close call for Joe
The Pattaya Golf Society closed its busy week with a
visit to Greenwood to play its monthly medal competition on a course well
presented but with slow greens which had been lightly dressed recently. It
was another interminably hot day as the single flight teed off on an empty
course and shots were hard to come by on the slow C greens. The back nine B
course was to be more obliging however.
Stuart Thompson recorded the only birdie ‘2’ of the day
in a round which helped him to net 78 and a share of third place with Rick
Schramm and “Banjo” Bannister. In second was Wichai Tananusorn, with net 75,
casting aside the remnants of his horror show recently. The winner was Joe
Niisato who managed to draw net 74 out of the course.
At the other end of the field Mr Len was the only golfer
to succumb to the course and he eventually “nil-returned” after fifteen
holes leaving the Booby Bevy as his consolation. The group will return to
Greenwood in the official low season when conditions are restored as
generally the best in the area.
|
|
Everett bags a brace and takes Hua Hin Handicap to boot
PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar
Monday, March 19, Banyan
Hua Hin - Stableford
After a couple of late withdrawals, 61 golfers plus
friends headed off on Sunday (18th) to play the
inaugural Hua Hin Handicap. It was an easy drive straight up highway 3, on
to the skyway, turning off at Rama 2, past the enormous triple headed
elephant, over one of the most stunning bridges to be seen; and some three
and a half hours later arriving in Hua Hin.
The winner, Don Everett
(centre) with runner up Rod Crosswell (left) and third placed Barney
Clarkson.
The group was split between two hotels, City Beach and
The Thipurai but being only about 100 metres apart, the dual location
presented no logistical problems.
Hua Hin at night has a lot to offer, although generally
more expensive than Pattaya, it’s a much cleaner town with many small sois
bustling with a vibrant nightlife of bar and restaurants with almost a
Southern European flavour.
The first round of the three day competition was on
Monday (19th) at the stunning Banyan course, where the
management once again excelled themselves with their hospitality and
organisation. The weather was also amazing, wall to wall sunshine with a
light breeze that strengthened throughout the day to a stiff breeze at the
outside restaurant at the clubhouse.
The course was beautifully manicured and the greens
around 9.5 on the stimp; Joe (the Pro) said a couple of weeks ago they had
been up around 11 but they were plenty fast enough! The fairways were a
delight with never a bad lie and we played from the white tees at around
6,200 yards but the tricky sloped greens kept most of the scores very honest
and it was true to say that most “if only” tales were about the missed
putts.
Not only was there a three day competition but also the
regular daily comp. split into four divisions; with probably Div B being the
most competitive with a handicap range of just three (12–14).
The top score of the day came surprisingly from Andy
Makara with a fabulous 41pts, completely trouncing the rest of his division
(Div D) and setting himself up for a big lead in the overall. The minor
places some seven shots back had three tied on 34pts, led by Chris Van
Hausen, followed by Don Everett and regular Outbacker, Brian Maddox.
Jim Bryan headed Div C on 36pts ahead of the Sugarman
(35) and the newly appointed Outback Golf Secretary, Suzi Lawton also on 35.
Div B had the only other player to break handicap, Murray
Hart, with a fine 37 with Rod Crosswell snapping on his heels with 36, Jeff
Calrow & Mick Leighton one point further back and the pack right behind as
many more scored between 32 and 34.
Big hitting Lloyd Shuttleworth shot a level handicap
36pts in the top flight, as did Brian Holden playing off just one shot more,
with the minor places being filled by Mark Reid and the new Outback Captain
Steve Mann, both on 35.
There were six ‘2’s from General Jack (hole 2), Keith
Buchanan & Paul Greenaway (hole 4) and three more on hole 17; from Murray
Hart, Pete Stonebridge and big Steve Poznanski.
Div A (0-11)
1st Lloyd Shuttleworth (5/Hi6.6)
36pts
2nd Brian Holden (6/Hi7.5) 36pts
3rd Mark Reid (7/Hi8) 35pts
Div B (12-14)
1st Murray Hart (13/Hi13.9) 37pts
2nd Rod Crosswell (13/Hi14) 36pts
3rd Jeff Calrow (13/Hi13.7) 35pts
Div C (15-20)
1st Jim Bryan (15/Hi15.4) 36pts
2nd Sugar Ray Handford (17/Hi17.7)
35pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (18/Hi20.6) 35pts
Div D (21+)
1st Andy Makara (31/Hi30.9) 41pts
2nd Chris Van Hausen (24/Hi24.4)
34pts
3rd Don Everett (22/Hi22.2) 34pts
Tuesday, March 20,
Springfield - Stableford
And so to Springfield for round two, a Jack Nicklaus
resort style course of some maturity now, compared to the modern style of
Banyan the previous day. Almost 40km north of Hua Hin, we arrived here in
about 35 minutes with the exception of one player, who thought he’d have a
look at Petchaburi first and ending up playing the course back to front by
joining the General’s three ball on the tenth and then playing the front
nine on his own with a marker. There were a couple of other bits of drama as
two of the players couldn’t be found and also for some unknown reason, the
course managed to run out of carts.
It was another splendid day for weather with not a cloud
in sight but the course looked a little tired compared with Banyan, yet was
in very acceptable condition and set to play A & B from the blues (6,600
yards), played long, particularly the back nine, heading back into a good
wind.
Using the rating and slope of this course, most were
playing off about two shots more than Banyan and the slightly higher
handicaps led to different divisional splits.
The scoring was generally good with three guys collecting
38pts aided probably by much easier greens than Banyan; one of them being
Don Everett who won Div D and the other two were Rod Crosswell and Sel
Wegner both in Div B.
Al Bryce (37pts) comfortably won Div A by three from Jock
Drummond (34) and Kissy Buchanan (33).
John Player, Ian Jones and Suzi Lawton were all tied at
the top of Div C on 34pts and needed to be split on count back with John
edging out Ian & Suzi in that order. Other notables were Tim Balfour (37)
third in Div B with Tony Pieroni (35) fourth; and David Earthrowl and first
round leader, Andy Makara tied on 34 in Div D.
There were three more ‘2’s from Al Bryce, Wetni Christie
& Ian Jones.
Div A (0-13)
1st Al Bryce (10/Hi9.5) 37pts
2nd Jock Drummond (5/Hi4.6) 34pts
3rd Keith Buchanan (13/Hi11.8)
33pts
Div B (14-16)
1st Rod Crosswell (15/Hi14) 38pts
2nd Sel Wegner (15/Hi13.4) 38pts
3rd Tim Balfour (14/Hi13.3) 37pts
Div C (17-22)
1st John Player (22/Hi20.1) 34pts
2nd Ian Jones (20/Hi18.2) 34pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (22/Hi20.6) 34pts
Div D (23+)
1st Don Everett (25/Hi22.2) 38pts
2nd Barney Clarkson (28/Hi25.7)
35pts
3rd David Earthrowl (23/Hi20.7)
34pts
Thursday, March 22, Banyan
Hua Hin – Stableford
Another beautiful day here at Banyan, as we prepared for
the final round of thus inaugural 54 hole Hua Hin Handicap, with Andy Makara
somewhat surprisingly hanging on to his first round lead, with a fighting
34pts at Springfield on Tuesday. He led the way with 75pts ahead of Rod
Crosswell (74pts) and Don Everett (73pts); Suzi Lawton made up the last
player of the final group out with a two day total of 69.
There was a whole bunch of guys on 68 and 67 but they
would have to produce something special to trouble the leaders.
Eager for an early start to help those returning later to
Pattaya, General Jack, electing not to play, got the groups away early with
the final group teeing off shortly before 11am, some 25 minutes ahead of
schedule.
It was clearly tough out there, even though Joe (the Pro)
said that the greens had been slowed down and were easier than a couple of
weeks ago, but they had been rolled. As the cards came in, so did the tales
of woe; loads of three putts and four putts had ruined many card as the back
nine greens were very tricky if your ball was in the wrong place.
Div B fared the worst as a surprised Gavin Perfect
collected the top spot money with a mere 33pts from Rosco on 32, with four
more tied on 32.
Chris Davisson paved the way in the premier division with
a fine 37pts, four clear of Brian Holden and a resurgent Paul Bourke both
with 33. (Gentleman) George Bishop matched Chris’s 37 to take Div C from
Suzi on 34 and Vic Barton with 33 but the best score of the day was once
again in Div D, as Don Everett put another very steady round together for
another 38pts. Brian Maddox and Barney Clarkson also batted well for their
37’s.
There were another five ‘2’s today from Mark Rossiter,
Rosco, John Greenhalgh, Suzi & John Pead, bringing the three day total to
just 14.
Div A (0-11)
1st Chris Davisson (10/Hi11) 37pts
2nd Brian Holden (6/Hi7.6) 33pts
3rd Paul Bourke (7/Hi8) 33pts
Div B (12-14)
1st Gavin Perfect (13/Hi13.7) 33pts
2nd Rosco Langoulant (14/Hi14.5)
33pts
3rd Rod Crosswell (13/Hi13.4) 32pts
Div C (15-20)
1st George Bishop (16/Hi16.7) 37pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (18/Hi20.6) 34pts
3rd Vic Barton (19/Hi19.6) 33pts
Div D (21+)
1st Don Everett (22/Hi21.4) 38pts
2nd Brian Maddox (22/Hi22.5) 37pts
3rd Barney Clarkson (26/Hi25.7)
37pts
Final Results
1st Don Everett 110pts
2nd Rod Crosswell 106pts
3rd Barney Clarkson 105pts
4th Andy Makara 104pts
5th Suzi Lawton 103pts
All the scores were in the computer by 4.30 and it was
just a matter of letting the software do the work to find out who had won
the overall. General Jack welcomed everybody once again to this great week
and announced that Banyan had already been booked for the final day of the 2nd
Syd LeBron Memorial Putter on 30th August as had Black
Mountain been secured for day 2 on Tuesday 28th. It
was generally agreed that Sea Pines would, subject to confirmation, be the
first day on Monday.
He also went on to thank Banyan for their excellent
presentation of the course and wonderful golfing experience to which there
was great applause. So to the ‘2’s, all 14 of them and nobody getting two of
them:- Mark Rossiter, Rosco, John Greenhalgh, Suzi, John Pead, Jack Moseley,
Kissy, Paul Greenaway, Muzza, Pete Stonebridge, Steve Poznanski, Al Bryce,
Wee Christie and Ian Jones.
|
|
Swansong for Three Sisters Group
PSC Three Sisters/Blue Moose Golf
Arnold and Richard (left) with
runners-up Bill and Jan.
This 21st of March was the next to last time for the
Three Sisters Group, soon to be renamed The Blue Moose Group. Effective
April 1, the Pattaya Country Club is closing nine holes for a period of 7
months. A decision as to where the newly named “Blue Moose Group” will play
has yet to be made.
Today was a Blue Moose Scramble and there were more than
16 players on the course. Two players were out of sync and were playing best
ball, some folks just don’t read their e-mails. Back at Caddy Shack II the
cards were submitted and it turns out that Arnold van de Graaf and Richard
Hall came in first place. Second place was taken by Bill Thompson and Kunaha
Janathorn.
Joe St. Laurent provided vittles in the form of a
sausage-meatballs and sauce that fit nicely into a hot dog bun. Next week,
March 28 will be the last game at PCC as well as Trophy game.
‘Blacky’ & Henry victorious
PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg
Peter Blackburn
Monday, March 19, Bangpakong – Stableford
It was time for our much awaited monthly visit to
Bangpakong Riverside Country Club and after a cancellation due to sickness
the afternoon before we had a nice tidy field of 28 golfers ready for the
longer than normal journey.
Henry Wong, The Admiral &
Peter Blackburn
We assembled at Caf้ Kronborg and welcomes were handed
out to Dave Neal & Ron Folks from the UK, Dave’s lady Tienthong and Frank
Donnelly returning after a couple of months in Australia. Sadly we were
saying farewell to our good friend Monte Sykes who is shortly returning to
the States after a 7 week break here in Pattaya.
Everyone fronted up early so we departed the Kronny 5
minutes ahead of our scheduled 0815hrs and in just 65 minutes we were at the
course which did not appear to be too busy, which was somewhat surprising as
it was a Sports Day with 800 baht green fee. Sure enough we were invited to
tee off as soon as we were ready and our first four-ball got away 15 minutes
early at 0945hrs. The weather was great with just a slight cloud cover at
times and as usual this lovely course was in terrific shape with lush
fairways and greens that were very close to perfection.
It wasn’t long before Stu (Heineken) Rifkin was
officially declared “on Safari” by The Admiral but to his credit he managed
to straighten up most of his shots eventually but alas, much good work was
spoilt by some errant putting. The Admiral was also having some woes with a
case of the dreaded sha..s but Hunter Gosden & myself plodded on and managed
to inject some respectability into the group.
Mike Winfield.
As mentioned earlier the course was fairly quiet and with
no-one ahead of us we scorched through the front nine in a couple of minutes
over two hours. Slowing down slightly on the back nine as it was getting
rather hot we stopped for a lengthy drinks break before the 12th
tee and continuing our good pace we completed the full round in the very
good time of four hours & ten minutes. Another excellent day was had by all
at this classy venue and several people appreciated it very much as there
were some very good scores handed in.
Your writer had a welcome return to form and took out the
A Flight with 42 points, 2 points ahead of Leif Kirkgaard in second place
with Ulf Larsson 1 point further back in third spot. A count back on 37
points for fourth & fifth places saw Dr Paul Cardwell (18 point back nine,
12 points on the last 6 holes) just ahead of the departing Monte Sykes (18
point back nine, 11 points on the last 6 holes).
B Flight was easily won by Henry Wong with a magnificent
45 points and Dave Neal came second with a fine 42 points. Mike Winfield was
third on 39 points with Jan Lovgreen fourth on 38 points and in fifth place
was Kenny Chung with 34 points.
A Flight (0-19)
1st Peter Blackburn (12) 42pts
2nd Leif Kirkgaard (19) 40pts
3rd Ulf Larsson (16) 39pts
4th Paul Cardwell (17) 37pts
5th Monte Sykes (7) 37pts
B Flight (20+)
1st Henry Wong (24) 45pts
2nd Dave Neal (22) 42pts
3rd Mike Winfield (22) 39pts
4th Jan Lovgreen (21) 38pts
5th Kenny Chung (23) 34pts
Near Pins: 4th – Neil
Skilton; 7th – Martin Todd; 13th
– Marco Beer; 16th – Liselotte Boskov
Long Putts: 9th – Stu
Rifkin; 18th – Leif Kirkgaard
The Compass Cap was won by new returnee Ron Folks who
accepted the honor in great spirit and Hunter paraded Deefa the Dog who once
more collected many donations to charity from the Kronny Crew.
Wednesday, March 21,
Pleasant Valley – Stableford
We were originally booked to play at Green Valley but
after a dispute over green fees it was decided that we play at Pleasant
Valley instead. There were 20 golfers signed up and after meeting at the
Kronny we welcomed Jesper Rasmussen (the 2nd) and
Henrik Buch from Denmark. It was also time to farewell Dave “The Admiral”
Richardson who will shortly be departing for his S.A.T. (Songkran Avoidance
Trip) to the U.S.A.
Departing Caf้ Kronborg a bit later than normal at
0830hrs we arrived at the course 44 minutes later to find the car park
rather sparse and an early tee off looked likely. Normally on this course we
play off the white tees but today we experimented by playing off the blue
tees which results in the course being some 521 yards longer. Playing from
the white tees previously has almost always resulted in very high scores so
it was hoped that today most people would find it a little bit tougher. This
indeed turned out to be the case as unusually there was only one score over
40 points.
Sure enough we were able to get our first four-ball away
15 minutes earlier than scheduled at 0945hrs and in perfect golfing weather
it wasn’t long before Stu (Leo) Rifkin was back on safari but once more
straightened his shots up after a couple of holes although once more he was
having trouble with the short stick. The course once again was in great
shape with the greens true but a little slower than normal and we continued
at a fairly good pace despite a Thai five-ball in front of us who stopped at
every drink stop. We had a couple of enforced stops for drinks and managed
to complete our full round in the respectable time of four hours & thirty
minutes.
Yours truly continued his good form and made it two wins
in a row by taking out the A Flight with 37 points despite “clipping”
himself 1 shot after Monday’s effort. In second place came Arne Max Pedersen
with 36 points and with two golfers on 35 points a count back saw Mike
Allidi (20 point back nine) take third spot from Martin Todd (16 point back
nine).
A fine score of 41 points saw Mike Winfield win B Flight
from Bo Cardwell in with 38 points in second place and Thientong Charoenrung
finished third with 37 points. After the golf Stu Rifkin went around and
asked everyone their thoughts on playing off the blue tees and 18 golfers
gave it the heads up whilst one did not care either way and one more did not
like it. Overall it was a successful move and we will probably do this next
time we play this course.
A Flight (0-15)
1st Peter Blackburn (11) 37pts
2nd Arne Max Pedersen (15) 36pts
3rd Mike Allidi (2) 35pts
B Flight (16+)
1st Mike Winfield (22) 41pts
2nd Bo Cardwell (29) 38pts
3rd Thientong Charoenrung (20)
37pts
Near Pins: 5th – Martin
Todd; 8th – Doug Maiko; 13th –
Doug Maiko; 17th – Stu Rifkin
Long Putts: 9th - Martin
Todd; 18th – Henrik Buch
|
|
Shier brilliance
PSC golf from The Golf Club
Steve Ellison
Monday, March 19, Rayong
Green Valley - Stableford, White tees
1st Henry O’Brien (20) 41 points
2nd Keith Worboys (13) 39 points
3rd Gary Emmett (17) 38 points
4th Brett Chan (15) 37 points
How green was my valley? Well, if your name was Henry
O’Brien last Monday it was a beautiful walk in the park for our
semi-resident Scotsman. Henry took a walk on the wild side and saw what it
was like to play some great golf as he turned in a 41 pointer to take first
place at our regular Monday outing.
John Emmerson congratulates
Henry O’Brien & Keith Worboys.
Too bad Keith, a 39 on any other week may well have won
it for you, but today it was only good enough for second.
Gary Emmett has flown off back to Oz but managed to
persuade 38 points out of the course for a commendable third and regular
Brett Chan turned in a very respectable 37 to finish in fourth. Well done
chaps!
Tuesday, March 20 & Wednesday March 21, Soi Dao Highlands - Stableford,
White tees
March 20
1st Dave Shelton (8) 37 points
2nd Ken Aihara (6) 36 points
3rd Bob Newell (6) 34 points
March 21
1st Ken Aihara (6) 36 points
2nd John Mulrooney (15) 36 points
3rd Oddvar Rykke (13) 35 points
It has been awhile since we hit the links of Soi Dao.
This is always such a good time both on and off the course and this road
trip was no exception. It is about a 3 hour drive to this lovely resort near
the Cambodian border. Some of the boys are finding the one nighter too short
so opted for a Monday departure after the round at Green Valley to enjoy a
two night stay.
Ken Aihara, John Mulrooney
and David Shelton.
This worked out to be a good plan as the drive was easier
and the rest was well needed.
On to the scoring, daily results are above and for the 2
day totals, the results were: 3rd Dave Shelton (68), 2nd John “Mulla”
Mulrooney (69), and 1st place overall for both days was Ken Aihara with a
tremendous 76.
TGC partner John McHugh led the twos with tap in birdies
on the 16th par 3 two days on the trot and came within 8 inches of an ace,
with Brad Gearie, Mark Wood and Ken Aihara also scooping the deuce.
We all headed back to Soi LK Metro for the presentation
and drinks as well as getting our energy restored at our Wednesday Steak
Night with big juicy Ribeye and Porterhouse cuts. Thanks to all who joined
us for this great trip out of Pattaya for a breath of fresh air in the
mountains of Soi Dao.
Masao Ishikawa, Dale Shier
and Ken Aihara.
If you haven’t heard, TGC partner John Emmerson is doing
fine after a health hiccup at Soi Dao and many, many thanks to gentleman
Jack Spencer for driving Johnny boy back to Pattaya early on Wednesday morn
for a check-up. All is well!
Friday March 23, Crystal
Bay - Stableford, White tees
1st Dale Shier (13) 41 points
2nd Ken Aihara (6) 37 points (cb)
3rd Masao Ishikawa (17) 37 points
4th Mark Wood (8) 37 points
Dale done good! Our resident fashion plate showed no
signs of cracks today as it was one of those days where everything went
right for our mate who is at home on an oil rig when not on the course. No,
I will not use that “rigs to riches” line again so don’t worry. To beat Ken
by 4 shots is no mean feat these days and Shier (i before e except after c)
showed great poise to hold it together down the stretch.
It was a logjam for second place that saw a 3-way count
back on 37 points. Mark Wood is a fellow rig worker that could only manage
17 points on the back as well as Masao Ishikawa, so it was the familiar name
of Ken Aihara taking the second spot on the podium.
Crystal Bay received rave reviews today as the course
condition was spectacular. This 27 hole track is one of our favourites and
will always attract a strong following. It is also probably one of the best
bargains in town right now with our special Pattaya Sports Club rates so try
to join us next time for a great golfing experience at Crystal Bay.
Songkran! Our Songkran road trip this year is 13-20
April and up in the Khao Yai region at Pak Chong. This is a hot new area for
some terrific new courses including Mountain Creek by Seve Ballesteros,
Panorama, Rancho Charnvee and Bonanza (4 rounds inc. caddy fees) with 7
nights hotel with breakfast at the Landmark all for 12,000 baht. We will
have optional golf at Toscana Valley and Mission Hills so drop by Soi LK
Metro to see us for details and signups.
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We
play on Monday, Wednesday and Friday so come join us for a fun day out. We
broadcast all Premier League, NFL, NHL and NBA games and our kitchen is open
from 07:00-22:30 with our famous Steak Nights on Wednesday, Saturday and
Sunday. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya.com
and for more information mail us: [email protected] and see updates at
www.face book.com/golfclubpattaya
|
|
Long handicappers lead the way
PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside
K & Dave.
Tuesday, March 20,
Pleasant Valley - StablefordTuesday was a
return to Pleasant Valley, you know the course some people enjoy,
others, not so much. The course was in generally good nick; however, the
greens were in need of a cut, which when combined with the grain, made
some putts like putting in treacle.
Clive Hoseason (28) was out in front with a solid
score of 35 points, followed in by Dave Edwards (18) with 31.
Near Pins were split between Jim & Dave.
Thursday, March 22,
Emerald - Stableford
The Emerald was our venue for Thursday, with the
condition of the course being generally good, which combined with clear
skies meant a good day of golf for all. Scores were not great, but they
were close amongst the field.
Today’s winner was Jim Fortune (28) with 33 points.
Hot on his heels was Kurt Erik Persson (29) with 32. 3rd spot, 1 point
further back, went to Willem Lasonder (21) after edging Dave Edwards on
count back 14/13.
Near Pins went to Frans, K & Tom with 2.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf on Tuesday
& Thursday, with ML hosting prompt presentations on both days. Call
0890941841 for scheduling or enquiries. Hope to see you there, cheers &
good golfing.
|
|
Aussie Rules at Emerald Golf Course
Backyard Golf Society
Mike (L) & Neville (R) with
the staff from the Blue Sky Bar.
With numbers fluctuating from week to week it was good to
see nine players from the Backyard Golf Society on arrival at Emerald Golf
Course on Friday. March 23. It seems that every other week we scrape
together enough players to make for a meaningful competition.
Neville rises to the occasion when the competition is
tough and the Aussie proved it again this week with a good winning score of
40 points. Mike came second with 35 points and Terry C produced the shot of
the day when taking the nearest the pin prize.
The skin prizes were spread around with the results as
follows: Dan M (5), Terry C (3), Andy Oz (2), Mike (2), Neville (2), and (3)
rollovers to next week.
Finally we went down the road for a few cold ones and
wished Harry V a good trip back to the US next week.
Dave, Dennis and Frank win first Coco Club lawn bowls indoor tourney
Winners and
runners-up (back row) David, Frank, Dennis and (front row) Pin, Lek, and
Pimpimon relax after a long day of bowling.
The Recently opened Coco Club Resort - 20 km south of
Pattaya - staged Thailand’s first Indoor Lawn Bowls Tournament on 14th March
2012 as a memorial event with 16 triple teams - 48 players - fighting for
the honour of being Thailand’s First Indoor Lawn Bowls Champions.
Starting at 9.30 a.m. (the first bowlers from Bangkok
arrived at 7.30 a.m.) and finishing at 7.00 p.m. it was a long day but the
hosts kept the international players from Australia, England, Scotland,
Holland and of course Thailand going with sandwiches, fruit and water during
the day.
Winners Dave, Dennis and Frank
celebrate the spoils of victory.
Spectators were able to sit at the adjoining bar with a
beer, cheering on the teams and even the heat of the day and the slight
evening rain could not affect the proceedings.
The four leagues played a round robin to qualify for the
semi finals with two leagues A and B producing easier winners but the other
two leagues were tied and a very different story.
In League C one team won easily on bowls difference but
league D produced a three way tie and a one bowl point advantage on
countback to the “cowboys” over players from the Thai Men’s National Team.
The semi finals progressed and drew together “The
Cowboys” to play the three young Thai National Ladies players under
floodlight in the final and the girls put up a great fight in the final but
the winners showed even in winning the spirit of the day by sharing their
Champagne prize with the girls!
Winners Dave, Dennis and Frank received 30,000 baht and
trophies from Coco Club with the 12 bottles of Champagne donated by Siam
Winery of Mont Clair fame and the runners up Lek, Pimpimon and Pin received
15,000 baht and trophies donated by Fantasy Bar in Jomtien and some
Champagne.
Semi-finalists received trophies and massage vouchers
donated by Pattaya Expat Magazine and Pattaya Today newspaper.
Following the formalities a buffet and band were
available to commemorate the Jack Bryant Memorial Trophy.
|
|
Warren Gallops to victory in Kabinburi
IPGC golf from The Links
Sunday, March 18, Green
Valley - Stableford
19 players including the welcome addition of 3 ladies,
teed off at Green Valley in windy conditions, and with the usual preceding
group short of numbers this week, we were able to tee off a full 30 minutes
early - long may this continue!
Sean Connolly claimed his first podium place of his
latest visit, finishing fourth with 34 points, one behind the erratic Jon
Batty, who limped home with 35. Last Thursday’s winner, Yukio Kikuchi, this
time had to settle for second place, as Noi Emmerson stole the show with a
fantastic 42 points.
Warren Gallop, master of
Kabinburi.
Two’s went to Joe McArdle and Jon Batty, both at the
short fourth, where neither player had managed to hit the green!
1st Noi Emmerson (19) 42 pts
2nd Yukio Kikuchi (18) 37 pts
3rd Jon Batty (8) 35 pts
4th Sean Connolly (10) 34 pts
Tuesday, March 20,
Kabinburi Sports Club - Stableford
17 players made our second trip of the year to the
fantastic Kabinburi facility, although this trip turned out a little
differently than originally planned.
Day one at Kabinburi sports club was a one sided affair,
with Warren Gallop streets ahead of the field. Warren played fantastic golf
all day, including a one under gross front 9, to shoot 75 and score 42
points off his 10 handicap. Mark Stanley was second with 38 points, a score
that would have been more than enough to win on any of our previous outings.
Three players tied on 36 points, Russell Exley taking
third spot with a 17 point back 9 haul. Jon Lay and Mike Korney could only
be split on the back 6, Jon triumphing 13 - 11 after both carded 16 on the
back 9.
Two’s went to Jon Lay, Mark Campbell, Mark Stanley and
Jon Batty, who eagled the par 4 10th.
1st Warren Gallop (10) 43pts
2nd Mark Stanley (12) 38 pts
3rd Russell Exley (8) 36 pts
4th Jon Lay (8) 36 pts
5th Mike Korney (19) 36 pts
Wednesday, March 21,
Hillside Country Home - Stableford
Day two of the trip saw us relegated to Hillside Country
Home, the second course of the area, after we were ousted by a late booking
by the Thai Army - we were going to argue, but they had more “ammunition”
than us!
On arrival at the facility, one player took one look at
what was on offer, and decided an immediate drive back to Pattaya was
preferable, which left us with 16 for the round. Hillside is what can be
politely described as an “interesting” course, with two distinctive 9’s; the
front being tight and undulating, the back flatter and more open, with the
yardages often open to debate (e.g. a 370 yard par 4 with a 130 yard lay-up
leaving 150 into the green, and a par 6 that takes drive, wedge, fairway
wood?). What really let the place down, however, was the quality of the
greens, which must have measured a full 1 foot on the stimpmeter. We decided
to make the best of it, however, and in our fourball at least, a good time
was had by all, particularly with the help of some rather entertaining
caddies.
Warren Gallop continued where he left off yesterday,
romping home with 38 points, four ahead of Paul Hird, who unfortunately
failed to score on the final two, fairly straightforward, holes.
Marty Rock finished a further point behind in third
place, with Russell Exley edging out Joe McArdle for fourth by virtue of a
22 - 13 count back after both scored 32 points.
A special mention also goes out to Yves Brosset, who
scored 25 points in total, despite only managing 4 on the front 9!
The two’s pot was shared by Mark Stanley and Jean Morel.
1st Warren Gallop (10) 38 pts
2nd Paul Hird (13) 34 pts
3rd Marty Rock (9) 33 pts
4th Russell Exley (8) 32 pts
5th Joe McArdle (13) 32 pts
Thursday, March 22,
Bangpra - Stableford
With most players deciding to take the day off after the
long trip to Kabinburi, only 11 players chose to play Bangpra. After
yesterday’s round, it was a pleasure to be back on “proper” greens, and the
course as a whole was in perfect condition, contrary to some earlier
reports.
Yasou Suzuki, a.k.a. Mr. Consistent, finished third with
32 points, one behind the ever improving Mark Stanley, who’s new tactic of
using a fairway wood or hybrid off the tee appears to be paying off.
Victory, however, went to Russell Exley, who showed it is possible to put
together 3 solid rounds of golf back to back, despite driving 500+ km in
between, and leading the 9 ball pool team to victory against strong
opposition the night before.
There were no two’s on the tricky par 3’s, so the pot
will rollover to Green Valley this coming Sunday.
1st Russell Exley (8) 36 pts
2nd Mark Stanley (12) 33 pts
3rd Yasou Suzuki (11) 32 pts
Note: The Links depart from the hotel on Soi
Buakaow at 9.30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and for Rayong Green Valley
every Sunday. Sign up at the hotel or contact Jon on 0800211034. A full
schedule of courses can be found on the IPGC website www.ipgc.org
|
|
Habgood sacrifices wedge, wins medal competition
PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Bowling Green
Monday, March 19, Crystal
Bay G.C. (B and C courses) - Medal
It’s not so long ago that the Bunker Boys used to play
alternate Medal and Stableford competitions week in and week out, but many
members seem to have lost their taste for the pressure of medal events, and
we’ve bowed to the pressure and played less and less. Anyway, today there
was a good turnout of 22 players for the only medal competition of the
month.
Peter Habgood minus pitching
wedge
One of the prominent voices against playing medal events
has been Peter Habgood, and he was heard to say that he wouldn’t have turned
up today if he’d remembered we were playing a medal round. It’s no surprise
to anyone then, that Peter had a great day and won the honours with a round
of net 67! This included an 8 on the par 4 tenth hole, where after a number
of failed chips, he took his wedge, held it at an angle off the ground and
stamped on the shaft, the result being another club needing a new shaft.
Peter, when will you ever learn - perhaps the winnings will go some way
towards (yet another) new shaft!
A Flight
1st Keith Norman (11) net 73
2nd Geoff Cox (14) net 73
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki (13) net 73
B Flight
1st Peter Habgood (19) net 67
2nd Dave Ashman (16) net 69
3rd Neil Griffin (28) net 77
Near Pins: Dave Ashman, Mike Lloyd and Raleigh
Gosney (2).
Wednesday, March 21,
Mountain Shadow G.C. - Stableford
We were scheduled to play Treasure Hill today, but after
receiving a number of reports that the greens there are unplayable at the
moment, we made a late switch to Mountain Shadow. The decision followed a
quick survey of members and with final approval from PJ, it was accepted by
everyone except John Hughes, who said he hated it there and couldn’t play
the course. In his opinion it was all a conspiracy to stop him from winning
golfer of the month title!
As John’s was the only voice of dissent, he was of course
immediately overruled, and off we went to Mountain Shadow. The weather was
great, with a cool breeze, which made a change from the last couple of weeks
where everywhere has been really humid.
Colin Greig produced the best round of the day, beating
his mate Paul Smith by a single point. A special mention goes to Rab
McDonald, who won the B flight despite on 2 or 3 occasions losing the plot
on the greens, and missing putts of less than 2 inches!
A Flight
1st Colin Greig (8) 39 points
2nd Paul Smith (3) 38 points
3rd Mike Lloyd (14) 37 points
B Flight
1st Rab McDonald (15) 32 points
2nd Gordon Melia (17) 31 points
3rd John Hughes (16) 28 points
Near Pins: Mike Lloyd, John Hughes and Alan
Freeman (2).
Friday, March 23, Eastern
Star G.C. - Stableford
A smaller number of golfers today for our visit to
Eastern Star. Only 16 golfers turned up, producing an easily manageable
number of 4 groups. We arrived at the course to find it busy and there was
talk from the doom mongers of a 5ฝ hour round, but when we set off, we were
pleasantly surprised at how smoothly the round progressed. The first 3 holes
were quite slow, but after the par 3 third, everything moved along nicely
with no further hold ups.
The course was in good condition, except for the greens,
which were so slow, that you had to belt the ball, even on steep downhill
lies. The result was the most amount of 3 putts ever recorded, even an
unconfirmed 5 putt!
Despite all this, Paul Smith came in with a great score
of 73 gross - and 38 points (this was despite only parring 1 of the par 3s).
The other event of the day was Lee Butler retiring after 14 holes, his
reason being ‘heat stroke’, although running out of balls may have been
closer to the mark.
1st Paul Smith (3) 38 points
2nd Rab McDonald (15) 35 points
3rd John Hughes (16) 35 points
4th Alan Freeman (3) 33 points
Near Pins: Only 3 greens were hit; Colin Greig,
John Hughes and Peter Habgood.
John Hughes has picked up a few points this week, and is
now only a couple of points behind arch rival Colin Greig in the race for
the Golfer of the Month title, with 3 more games to go. Good luck next week
guys!
Note: The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf
society who now play out of the Bowling Green on Soi X-Zyte between Pattaya
3rd Road and Soi Buakaow. We play three times per week on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Fridays, so if you enjoy a fun day out, and a friendly but
competitive golf competition why not come and join us. We meet at the
Bowling Green at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new players
with valid handicaps are always welcome. For more information call Dave on
087 1469978, email dave.evelyn18 @yahoo.co.uk.
|
|
Area greens are improving
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Monday, March 19, Rayong
Green Valley - Stableford
As we walk into the clubhouse the management informs us
that all eighteen greens are being sanded at this moment, but there was no
mention after a discussion on a reduction in the green fee today. Last year
we all remember the par three 16th with a quarter of an in inch of sand and
many footprints allover the green, it was impossible to putt. It is decided
to carry on as we have not been here for a couple of months and, due to
Korean bookings, we will not tee off until after 11.00 a.m. on any course.
After his short trip back to Finland for his medical
check Kari Aarnio returns with his OK and cards a 38 for the best score of
the day winning division 2 with 38 points. The single French lad Jean Morel
is second and two points behind. Miss Chevrolet’s boy, now single so we have
been told, as the Burapha caddy has not been seen for many weeks, beat Rudi
Schaefer on a 20/17 count back after they both come in with 35 points.
The cut today was 6-16 in division 1 and Kari Kuparinen,
playing off 6, wins this division with 36 points. Chris Voller, still off 8,
is second one point behind and Ron Miller beats Neville Scurrell on a 19/16
back nine count back after they both come in with 34 points.
Roar Berger with 36 points is top in division 3 with the
cut at 21+ in his division. John Williams is second one point behind and
Yves Bosset is third on 33.
A rollover from Pattaya Country Club in division 1 in the
twos and Kari Kuparinen and Ron Miller split the pot. Bryan Rought in
division 2 birdies the 4th to take two rollovers in this division.
Near pins: Div 1. Neville Scurrell, Harry Vincenzi
(2) and Chris Voller. Div 2. Mauri Friman, Bryan Rought and Rudi Schaefer.
Everyone’s comment afterwards: the greens were OK and
still slick and we are back here in three weeks.
Wednesday, March 21,
Crystal Bay - Stableford
We were allocated the B and C courses today but this was
changed as we now tee off 30 minutes ahead of schedule on the B with the A
course our second nine. There are three divisions for the men with the cut
at 5-15, 16-20 and 21+ in division 3. Another warm day here with no breeze
and the course was favourable with all.
In the second division Harry Vincenzi is third with 37
points and with 22 on the front nine Jim Connelly is looking forward to a
podium position with 39 points but, guess who, Countback Burnie beats him on
the back nine 18/17 to take first place after he scores 39 as well.
Three 37’s in division 1 with Fred Land winning on a
19/18/15 back nine count back over Chris Voller and Jason Cole.
Kalevi Wallius wins division 3 with 38. Terry Redding is
second three points behind and Mauri Friman beats John Williams 19/17 after
they both return scores of 33.
There are an amazing 7 twos today in two divisions, Jason
Cole, Ron Miller and Raivo Velsberg in division 1 and John Bassett (2),
Mauri Friman and Burnie Sinclair in division 2.
Near pins: Div1. Raivo Velsberg (2) and Chris Voller
(2). Div 2. John Basset, Mauri Friman (2) and John Williams.
The numbers are dwindling now over the next two weeks and
it is Bon Voyage to John and Selina Williams and Rudi Schaefer.
Friday, March 23, Eastern
Star - Stableford
There were ten groups out last night but a couple of
cancellations and we are down to nine today. It is an extremely hot day here
and the majority of golfers come in exhausted. An overall opinion of the
greens since last week, they have improved and we have been told by the
management they will get better over the next few weeks.
The fishing boy records the best score of the day winning
division 2 with 37 points beating the Irish lad Cully Monks on a 21/19 back
nine count back. The organiser is third with a measly 27, 10 points behind.
Jerry McCarthy tops division 1 with 32 beating Frank
Kelly on a 20/15 count back. Jon Lay is third with 31.
Before her return to Toulouse Miss Pranne Bosset wins the
ladies division with 35 points and also birdies the 13th to make her a happy
lady.
Jon Lay is the only winner in the men’s divisions with a
two on the 13th as well.
Near pins: Ladies Pranee Bosset (2); Div 1. Jerry
McCarthy, Chris Voller and Keith Wooley; Div 2. Roar Berger, Cully Monks,
John Sewell and Chris Slota.
|
|
Mashi & Walter beat
the Tropical heat
PSC Golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday’s winners back at
Tropical Bert’s.
Derek Brook
Tuesday, March 20,
Greenwood - Stableford
This is a regular on our monthly play list. That is if
you do not mind the journey up there, and on this day Mashi offered me a
lift so I did not have to drive. So it was a good day when I got there, I
even had time to look around on the way. Nice countryside, but plenty of
bikes.
On this day we were due to tee off a little late; even so
it was still surprising to see that the parking area was quite empty. Still
it made for a quick book in and then onto the start where we found we were
to play the C & B nines. The C nine is probably the toughest and on this day
we also had a very strong wind blowing so it promised to be a long hard day,
and we pay to do this.
Quickly the high wind proved difficult, but soon we
forged ahead. The fairways were in their normal fine condition and the rough
as usual punishing. However, the thing that pretty quickly became apparent
is that the greens were very badly damaged and in very poor condition. Large
areas on just about all the greens are bare and just as if the grass has
been scoured from the surface.
So on we went and with the course fairly empty we were
able to get around pretty much in our own time. That unfortunately can be
not the fastest in the world with a bunch long in the tooth. Still, most who
play here fall close to that standard so we got around in fair time and then
into the showers.
The showers here are good and so it was soon a clean
bunch who got into the restaurant. While not the best around it is still
very good and the food served is good, cheap and hot. So it was a top up and
then for me into Mashi’s car for the trip back. One thing about travelling
with Mashi is that it is never boring. For me between the ‘eye resting’
periods I was able to see Mashi’s route back which I know varies.
So back at Bert’s, for Curry Night, it was into the
result show. With a low turnout on the day we had one flight. The winner was
Mashi Kaneta with 34 points ahead of a countback on 33 points for the minor
places. In second was Andre Van Dyk with John Hackett in third and Mike
Gaussa in fourth. The low scores were the result of a high wind, bad greens
and a tough day.
Near pins: B2 John Hackett, C6 Brian Parrish, with
nobody on C3/B5
Friday, March 23, Eastern
Star - Stableford
This is a fine course that we do not play often enough.
It could be that it is in that area where, after playing, we have to drive
back on, say, a Friday night at 1700 hrs. when traffic is at its heaviest.
It is not fun playing this really tough course and knowing you have another
test ahead.
However, playing this course on this day we were reminded
just how good it was. Unfortunately on this day we had to play with a ‘Three
Club’ wind, which is fine when it is behind you but hard with a crosswind or
playing into it. Also with it behind players tend to have great difficulties
holding the greens.
When we got there it was as quick as possible to the
first tee as there was a big competition due to start and we rushed to get
off. Surprisingly we were held up most of the round, but still got around in
fine time. The course itself is in good condition, and surprisingly the
greens were much better than those we played on Tuesday, if a little ‘hairy’
which made them slow. This is a seriously testing course and if you want to
play a course that flatters your golf, do not play it, but play it well and
you get a sense of accomplishment.
So round over it was into the fine showers, then into the
fine restaurant. This used to be, in my opinion, then best food at any
course. It used to boast a top professional chef, and we used to play the
course just to have a treat when we finished. These days the food is not up
to that standard, but aspects linger and with fine surroundings it is still
good.
Then the drive back on a Friday night. I have to admit I
came back on the ‘Scenic Route’, a bit longer but you come into town off
route 7 and straight onto Pattaya Nua. Then into Bert’s where the ‘Golfers
Special’ special was fish and chips. Fine food at a great price.
Then after a couple of ‘cold uns’ into the presentation.
The scores were not outstanding, but as said the scores were an indication
of the difficulties of the day. Winner with by far the best score of the day
was Walter Baechli with 37 points. In second was Mashi Kaneta with 31 points
and then, very unusual, we went back to a three way countback on 29 points
won by Derek Brook with Bob Watson and Mike Gaussa losing out.
Near pins: Walter Baechli (2), Dick Warberg, Derek
Brook.
|
|
Pattaya Sports Club
Bowling League
200 Bowler: Kran Nielsen.
VFW Post 9876 continued their winning ways taking three
points from first place Indiana. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 520 series for VFW
and everyone else just bowled.
Green Tree remains in second place after splitting their
match with Canada with each team getting two points. Canada bowling with a
blind won two behind Lek Reaper’s games of 182, 176, and 182, for a 540
series.
Scores were not good on lanes 11 and 12 but Bavaria
managed to win three points from Tea Party with no bowler managing to bowl a
500 series.
Brother D won three points from Cafe Kronborg and moved
out of last place. Kronborg replaced them at the bottom of the standings.
Kran Nielsen did manage to bowl a 200 game for Kronborg.
A tough week for golfers
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday March 19, Khao
Kheow, yellow tees - Stableford
1st Division 0-15
1st Peter Skinner (10) 35
2nd Alan Griffiths (11) 32
3rd Bob Heath (12) 30 cb 15
4th Yasuo Suzuki (11) 30 cb 13
5th David Ross (9) 29
2nd Division 16 +
1st Grant Cadell (16) 33
2nd Paul Hartley (19) 32 cb 16
3rd Kaneo Watanabe (19) 32 cb 15
4th Serge Straeten (17) 31 cb 15
5th Shuichi Kodaka (18) 31 cb 10
A very hard week’s golf started out promisingly enough at
the always popular Khao Kheow club where the A & C off the yellow tees were
a little too difficult to handle for the players as the wind blew up into a
very stiff breeze. Even with a large turnout only one of the qualifying
competitors, those with handicaps of twenty or better, managed to play
within the two shots of their handicaps. This resulted in the day’s
competition becoming non-counting for upward review as the system deemed
that the conditions and results would not reflect fairly on the handicaps.
The CSS for the day duly moved out to 75.
Grant Cadell.
Peter Skinner, the sole qualifier, led in the first
division with a solid one over handicap that was good enough by three clear
to take the top spot earning himself a drop of a shot in his final game of
this visit.
Alan Griffiths, although three behind, played well enough
to take second by two from third placed Bob Heath. Bob had to win a count
back with Yasuo Suzuki, which he did with a better 15 to 13, which left
Yasuo in fourth one better than David Ross in fifth.
The second division was an altogether closer affair with
Grant Cadell just slipping into first on the final hole with a rare three
pointer on the last hole to win by one, ahead of Paul Hartley who won a
count back with Kaneo Watanabe by a margin of 16 to 15.
Serge Straeten made a return to Soi 13 golf taking fourth
place as he also won a count back with Shuichi Kodaka by 15 to 10 after the
latter had gone out in an unbelievable three under handicap. Shuichi fell
apart on the inward nine even though he scored seven of his ten points on
just two holes, as three one points and four blobs wrecked his chances.
Peter Skinner.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Peter
Skinner with two and Yasuo Suzuki shared the first division pool.
Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed back
Brian Randall, Kevin Townsend and Jens Gunnarsson and there was also a
special welcome back for Richard Livingston who had come down to add his
farewell to those for the group from South Herts Golf Club where he used to
be the Club Professional. Although it is now several years since Richard
taught golf and shared a few conversations at the bar he is still fondly
remembered by many of the members as the third in a line of excellent club
professionals having followed Harry Vardon, the six times winner of the Open
and also a winner of the US Open, and Dai Rees who, while not winning The
Open came second three times, and led the Ryder Cup team in 1957 to the only
win over the United States by Great Britain & Ireland between the years of
1933 and 1985. The occasion required that a few drinks were downed which
duly happened.
Wednesday, March 21, Greenwood B & C Courses - Stableford
1st Yukio Kikuchi (18) 31 cb 20
2nd Phillip Cass (22) 31 cb 17
3rd Shuichi Kodaka (18) 31 cb 16
4th Yasuo Suzuki (11) 28
5th Peter McGown (19) 27
6th David Ross (9) 26
Following the return home of the South Herts Touring
Group the numbers were much reduced leaving just one division to take on the
usually delightful Greenwood layout. Unfortunately on the day the greens
were found to be in a very poor state with many bare patches and hardly a
good roll to be found on any of them from almost any position. This
reflected extremely badly on the scores as for the second time in the week
the competition became non-counting as the best of the day could only garner
31 points.
Warren Gallop.
Yukio Kikuchi won after also winning a count back with
Phillip Cass with a better 20 to 17 when, after going out with a very slow
start, he was not looking forward to a happy ending for a change.
Shuichi Kodaka also figured in the same count back but
could only muster 16 on the back nine which put him into third place. New
member Peter McGown must have wondered what sort of club he had joined when
he found himself in fifth place after knocking it sideways most of the day
to finish at nine over handicap and beat David Ross into sixth by a single
point.
There were no 2’s in the first division but Yukio Kikuchi
made it an excellent day in the collection department even if the golf was a
bit patchy, by sweeping the second division pot.
Before the presentations there were welcomes for new
members Jesse Harris and Peter McGown.
Friday, March 23, The Emerald, white tees - Stableford
1st Warren Gallop (10) 36 cb 19
2nd Al Keith (6) 36 cb 15
3rd Keith Emerson (13) 33 cb 20
4th Paul Hartley (19) 33 cb 19
5th David Ross (9) 33 cb 14
At last some sanity returned on the final day of the week
as the group took on a very tough Emerald course that had just had the
greens shaved down to a slightly quicker pace than either of the Siam or
Bangpra courses, which are normally the quickest in the area. This made for
a very interesting day for most of the field with only the best of the
putters in the field able to cope with breaks that were sometimes as much as
three club lengths and any over hit puts likely to require a chip as the
next shot.
Yukio Kikuchi.
Warren Gallop just got the better of a count back with Al
Keith to win his last competition of this trip with a better 19 to 15 after
Al had gone out in level par gross amassing 21 points. Sadly his last
approach on the par five spun back off the green leaving him a chip and two
puts for a par to miss out by one.
Warren’s round was a very tidy one. Following a slow
start he just got better as the round progressed as he came to terms with
the greens. He finished strongly with three solid pars to wrap up the round
and the win.
Keith Emerson won a three way count back with Paul
Hartley and Davis Ross. After he also had started slowly he strolled through
the back nine totaling 20 points which left Paul in fourth with 19 and David
fifth after a very tired 14 after he had stated well.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Warren
Gallop and Keith Emerson with two shared the first division.
Back at The Haven there was a welcome for new member Paul
Hird and welcome backs for Brian Libbey and Keith Emerson.
Note. If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact
mobile 082 219 0965 or call in to The Haven 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 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 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
|
|
Pattaya archer’s first perfect score
16th PSC Charity Classic title
Allan Jones, a member of the Pattaya Archery Club,
recently shot a perfect score of 60 points with his recurve bow, shooting
six consecutive arrows, each one embedded in the ten-zone … which is just
8cm across.
Allan and his perfect score
of 60.
This was at a distance of 30 metres and was the club’s
first-ever perfect score shot under the pressure of a competition.
This is no mean feat, as it is difficult enough to get a
perfect score in training … but to shoot this accurately whilst under the
extra disciplines and stress of competing against other skilled archers is
an exceptional achievement.
As the club has been in existence for over six years, it
is almost impossible to calculate just how many arrows have been shot at
that distance … must be many, many thousands.
Unfortunately for Allan he won no medal, nor cash, nor a
bottle of wine; but the honour of being the club’s first perfect scorer, in
a competition, will stay with him forever … or at least until someone shoots
a perfect score at 50 metres distance, in a competition … which will be the
next milestone in the club’s history.
From left, Eric, Poppy,
Philippe and Claude.
That may take some time though, as those extra 20 metres
increase the difficulty enormously. But as archery is all about challenges,
both personal and in competition; some club member, some day, will score a
perfect 60/60 at 50 metres.
However several archers have already scored five golds in
one end of six arrows at 50 metres, but a perfect score of 60/60 at 50
metres is still some time away … unless Allan can claim that record, too!
All these scores have been achieved with modern
Olympic-style recurve bows … which illustrates just how much of a legend was
the famous “Robin Hood” feat of splitting an arrow with another arrow. Robin
Hood (if he existed) only used an English (or Welsh?) longbow, a “bent
stick” as they are sometimes called … which is like comparing Robin’s use of
a flintlock musket with Allan’s use of a modern snipers’ rifle.
A further eight archers - one Thai lady, nicknamed Poppy
and seven farang men: Eric and Richard (England); Rik (Belgium); Gilles,
Gilbert, Philippe and Claude (France) - have each scored 59 with six
consecutive arrows (5 x 10s and 1 x 9) but that last 10 has proved very
elusive. Up to now.
Also there are a number of recent newcomers to Pattaya
Archery Club who are practising shooting at 30 metres and developing their
techniques, and so it won’t be long before they, too start getting high
scores.
Certainly the standard of archery in the club has been
substantially raised since its inception in early 2006, when all the
newcomers thought they were doing well just to get all six arrows on a
target at 20 metres. And if one of their six arrows hit the gold, well that
was a good excuse for a beer! How times have changed.
Trying archery in Pattaya
Pattaya Archery Club shoots on Tuesdays, Thursdays,
Saturdays and Sundays, beginning at 10.00 am and finishing at about noon or
thereafter. Anyone - Thai or farang, young or old, man or woman - is welcome
to come along to the Pattaya Shooting Park in Hua Yai and find out what it
is all about.
Beginners’ Coaching is held on a Tuesday and/or a
Saturday. The Coach’s services and the use of the club’s bows, arrows and
other equipment are free for beginners, and so it costs nothing to see if
this challenging sport is for you.
For more details visit Pattaya Archery Club’s website at
www.pattayaarcheryclub.com, or telephone Eric, the club’s President, on 089
535 1193.
|
|
Asia’s best head to 2012 Top of the Gulf Regatta
Wan Marang will be one of the
local challengers at the 2012 Top of the Gulf Regatta being raced of Ocean
Marina, May 4-8. (Photo/Martin Bilsborrow)
The fleet line-up for the 2012 Top of the Gulf Regatta,
held 4-8 May off Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Jomtien, Pattaya, is set to be
one of the most competitive yet.
Over 600 participants in 300+ sailing craft, from more
than 30 countries will compete in 12 classes over four days of racing at
Asia’s largest multi-class regatta – the Top of the Gulf Regatta (TOG
Regatta).
A record fleet is expected on the keelboat and multihull
courses this year. Growing year-on-year, the highly competitive fleet
includes boats from Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, Australia, Thailand and
beyond, and will be managed by experienced Principal Race Officer Jerry
Rollin.
“We expect over 70 boats on the keelboat and multihull
course this year, with an increase in interest from Singapore, Hong Kong and
Manila, particularly in the 40 foot keelboat range,” said William Gasson,
Founder and Chairman of the Regatta Organising Committee.
Asia’s 40-foot fleet continues to grow and top boats from
around the region are heading to Pattaya to test their skills against one of
Asia’s most competitive fleets, at the TOG Regatta. 2011 Phuket King’s Cup
Regatta winner, Japanese-entry Karasu, skippered by Yasuo Nanamori, will be
competing for the first time this year and will be up against KukuKERchu,
the Kerr 40 from Singapore, Walalwala 2, a Sydney GTS 43 from Singapore, and
the Mills 40 EFG Bank Mandrake from Hong Kong – all newcomers to the Regatta
this year. They will be up against Thailand teams Wan Marang (GP42) and
Katsu (Swan 42), amongst others.
Add to the 40-footers the Singapore Kerr 32 Foxy Lady IV,
skippered by Asian regatta veteran Bill Bremner, and the all-new,
never-before-raced Soto 30, which will be making its worldwide debut at the
Regatta, and the Class is wide open.
The pedigree of sailors at the 2012 TOG Regatta is
exceptional, with winners of all the major Asian Regattas in the last 12
months, taking part, as well as national and regional champions competing in
the Optimist, dinghies and beach catamaran classes.
The Racing Class will again be competitive with Neil
Pryde and his HiFi crew returning to try again for the elusive class title –
one of the few in the region he has yet to win.
The Sports Boats Class is set to grow with two new Shaw
6.5’s launched recently and expected to join the fleet, together with Hong
Kong newcomer the 25-foot Brace Brace.
The Prestigious Coronation Cup, competed for by the
one-design Platu fleet, continues to attract attention from sailors in Asia
and beyond. With 15 Platus already confirmed and more crews wanting to take
part, the Class looks to be one of the biggest yet in the Regatta’s
eight-year history. Crews from Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan and
Thailand have currently signed-up.
“The standard of competition looks set to be very high at
this year’s Top of the Gulf Regatta. We’re expecting one of the most
competitive line-ups of any regatta in Asia and are looking forward to some
exciting racing,” added Gasson.
The 2012 Top of the Gulf Regatta will take place 4th to
8th May. Hosted at Ocean Marina Yacht Club, racing will take place in the
waters off the marina, Jomtien Beach, on the Gulf coast of Thailand.
For more information, visit www.topofthegulfregatta.com.
|
|
2012 Pattaya Marathon announced; entries being accepted
Phasakorn Channgam
Applications are now open for those wishing to
participate in the 2012 Pattaya Marathon, scheduled to take place on July
15.
Organised by Pattaya City Hall in co-operation with the
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Athletic Association of
Thailand, the 21st edition of the event will be
divided into five categories; Marathon 42.195 km, Half Marathon 21.100 km,
Quarter Marathon 10.550 km, Student Run 3.500 km and Wheelchair Marathon
42.195 km.
The marathon route will take the runners from a start
point at Central Festival Pattaya Beach out on Sukhumvit Road heading
towards Sattahip as far as the Wat Khao Cheejan turn-off and then back to
Pattaya via Jomtien and Khao Phratamnak.
The half and quarter marathons will follow a similar
route except that runners will turn for home at Soi Wat Boon and the
Underwater World respectively before heading back via Jomtien Beach and
South Pattaya.
Persons interested in taking part can apply in person at
the Tourism Department, first floor at Pattaya City Hall, North Pattaya
(call 038-253127-9) and at Central Festival Pattaya Beach, 1st floor (ocean
side), or through the internet at http://www.pattaya-marathon.net.
This map released by City
Hall shows the outline of the Pattaya Marathon routes for 2012.
|
|
City’s hard fought win
Bangkok Casuals League, Div 1 & 2
Pattaya City played Triumph Masters in Bangkok on
Saturday, March 24, and were looking for another win after already beating
them 2-1 and 5-2 this season.
Masters had signed some new players and this match was
not going to be easy. But City took the game to the Masters and after a good
build up scored the first goal when City’s Clesielski clever header found
Freeman who made no mistake to make the score 1-0 to City.
Almost immediately City nearly went two up but Brian
Wilkins shot just went over. A good combination of inter passing by the City
players brought their second goal when Brigstock-Barron shot wide of the
keeper to make it 2-0 to City.
Masters pressured the City defense and the City keeper
had to keep on his toes, but it was no surprise when they pulled a goal back
to make it 2-1.
Both teams kept it tight until half time. Straight after
the break City got a shock when the Masters received a penalty when City’s
Glen Wilkins tripped the Masters attacking forward in the penalty area. It
was converted to make the score 2-2.
City would now have to roll up their sleeves and get on
top again. City did not find it easy but gained a corner on the right and a
poor clearance from the Masters defense saw the ball go straight to the
unmarked O’Callaghan on the edge of the penalty area. He blasted the ball
past a helpless keeper to put City in the lead 3-2.
Masters went looking for another goal and two good saves
by the City keeper kept the Masters attackers at bay.
It was City who went further ahead when a shot by
O’Callaghan was diverted into the Masters goal by Brigstock-Barron to make
the score 4-2.
The Masters came back and again put pressure on the City
goal. The keeper was well alert but had no chance when the City defense was
caught square and the Masters forward just slotted the ball home to make it
4-3 to City.
The Masters were determined to get at least a draw but
the City were just as determined that they will not lose another goal. The
last fifteen minutes was hectic but both defenses held tight for City to win
4-3.
Pattaya City saw their chances take a knock of winning
the title when they lost at home 2-0 to the Londoner.
|
|
Rolex and Vinny sign
off with duel in the sun
PSC Lawn Bowls from The Bowling Green
The winning team: Mike,
‘Rolex’, Ken, John P. and Billy.
Saturday, March 17, saw a special challenge match between
two of the most popular members of the Bowling Green who were going home the
following day to England and Scotland respectively. A farewell match was
organised and captained by the two people in question; one team skippered by
Peter “Rolex” Brown and the other marshalled by Mark “Vinny” Vickers.
There were five men in each squad playing a doubles and
triples match and both matches were played to a very high standard. In the
doubles match, Mike and Ken got the better of Sandy and Bluemoon Brian to
give “Rolex” a win. In the triples match Aussie Bill, leading superbly and
ably assisted by Rolex at no 2, were always posing problems against Roy F.
and Vinny. However Roy and Vinny would not go away and John P, skippering
for Rolex’s team always came in with some brilliant bowls to outwit Brumi
John, skippering for Vinny’s team.
The result was another win for Rolex team to take the
match 2-0. Fun was had by all with Rolex and Vinny looking forward to coming
back soon to set up another challenge.
|
|
Colors clash at Pattaya
school sports day
Deputy mayor Wattana
Janthaworanan presents medals and certificates to young athletes at the
Pattaya School No. 11 Sports Day.
Manoon Makpool
Pattaya School No. 11 held a sports day on March 13 under
the watchful eye of deputy mayor Wattana Janthaworanan, who also doubles up
as president of a local youth swimming club.
The competition was held between four teams dressed in
blue, green, pink and purple colors and individual events were subdivided
depending on whether it was junior or senior students taking part.
In the blue ribbon 100m race, 15 year old Surasak Songsei
sprinted to victory ahead of runner up Nathachai Panphrom and third placed
Jensak Makpim. Other notable performances saw 12 year old Thonasak Pala from
the Green team take victory in the swimming pool while Singh Wangweng of the
Blues finished close behind in second.
All the winners and runners up of the events held during
the day received medals and certificates to mark their achievements.
A race for the line in the
girls sprint event.
The Blue team cheerleading
squad prepare to perform their routine.
|
|
|
