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Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

PSC bowlers pose for a group photo.

Green Tree, last league’s winner, moves into first place after winning three points from Bavaria. Scores were low and most bowlers were complaining about the lack of oil on the lanes.

VFW Post 9876 dropped from first to second place after losing three points to Brother D.

Mittin2012 moved into fourth place after taking all four points from Canada. Yeow Gale had one of the few good games this week with a 532 series for Mittin2012.

Indiana took three and one half points from Caf้ Kronborg. Kran Nielsen bowled a 523 series for Kronborg.


Pattaya Sports Club Fishing Reports

Capt. Dene

What a fantastic day we had on our June 2 trip! Eight of us met at Khram Marine at 07:00 after a night of storms, rain and fierce winds wondering if the trip would be cancelled. To the contrary, we set out on calm seas with overcast skies and had a terrific day’s fishing.

The Captain holds up two greys caught on June 2.

Although it was a little slow for the first hour or so, with a change of tides the fish started biting and we soon had good catches of larger than usual pla-daeng together with plentiful grouper, yellow tail and snapper. The big grey cods were also around and six of us landed 2 each of these 2ฝ - 3 kilo beauties. However, the best catch of the day was a 3 kilo plus grouper caught by Sollie. The captain is pictured here with 2 of the greys.

We all went home with bags of 10 kilos and over but John and Marnie were unlucky in not having any of the large greys in their haul.

On our departure the tide was at its lowest I have seen this year and we all had difficulty in descending the ladder to the boat. Unfortunately, I did not have my camera handy when Marnie was making the descent. Comments on my maneuvers were not complimentary either.

There’s little to say about our subsequent trip on June 7. Definitely the least fish caught during the last 2 years. One 3 kilo big grey cod caught by Sollie was the only large fish for the day and most of us only had around 2 kilos each to take home – mainly pla-daeng. As usual, Khun Daeng had a reasonable bag catch for the day.

The captain blamed flood waters from Northern Thailand flowing into the Gulf from the Chao Praya River in Bangkok and Bangpakong. This may be the case as other reports say fishing will be poor until June 18, presumably awaiting the flood waters to abate.

Fortunately, the weather was great and the six of us were still in good spirits at the end of the day - even more so after our snacks and refreshments after docking at Khram Marine.

Next trips are on Saturday June 23 (this may be cancelled) and Thursday 28.


Shenanigans Quiz Night

This week’s winners – Dusty Treecaps.

Dusty Treecaps 88, Non Blondes 88, Knuckleheads 86, The Tinkers 81, 7 Chinese Brothers 73, Surprise Package 73


Growling Swan Golf kicks off in style

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Mike Allidi, Peter Blackburn & Fred Dineley.

Peter Blackburn

Tuesday, June 5, Eastern Star – Stableford

This was a historic occasion for the twenty golfers who signed up for The Growling Swan Opening Day at the challenging Eastern Star Golf Course and there was a terrific “buzz” in the air as we assembled at the venue in readiness for the trip to the course. Complimentary tea & coffee was available prior to our departure and several of us took advantage of Peter Grey’s hospitality.

As I looked around the bar I couldn’t help thinking of the people who had been saying that this was another “Aussie Golf Bar”. We had representatives from USA, France, Switzerland, Japan, Canada, Ireland, England, and of course a “handful” of Australians. No Danes on this occasion but I’m sure it won’t be too long before they will be amongst us.

Mashi Kaneta & Peter Blackburn.

Some of us were travelling to the golf course by car and the remainder departed in 2 mini buses and due to the 10.26 am tee time we got on our way at 9.15 am. There was a bit of activity when we arrived at the course 35 minutes later but we were hopeful of teeing off ahead of schedule.

I thanked all for attending this important inaugural Growling Swan Golf Competition and in particular made mention of the presence of the Pattaya Sports Club Golf Chairman, Joe Mooneyham who had kindly agreed to participate in the day’s event. As we teed off 6 minutes ahead of schedule Joe kicked off the proceedings by hitting a cracking drive down the first which we were expected to follow but unfortunately we couldn’t match him.

It was alleged after the game that one of the Aussies who cannot be named but his initials are Stuart Rifkin, celebrated the occasion by performing a good old Aussie ritual called “shooting the moon” on the first tee. Good on you Stu and rest assured, the likelihood of incarceration is fairly remote as all present said they “never saw a thing”!

The weather was fine but hot with a very stiff breeze and the golf course was looking good although some of the greens had much residual sand on them which made putting very tricky at times. Despite a couple of fairly slow groups in front of us we proceeded at a good pace and after a 10 minute drinks break before the 11th tee we managed to finish our round in the good time of four hours & fifteen minutes.

It was also important to thank Peter Grey of The Growling Swan who contributed to making this all possible and thanks to Mashi Kaneta & Tom Cotton for supporting me on this special day.

We had 2 Flights with A Flight for handicaps 0 to 20 and B Flight for 21 and over. There were rewards for nearest the pins on the four par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens. Many thanks to Peter Grey & Martin Todd for providing additional rewards for these novelties.

The going was tough for most of us on the day as the scores will indicate and no-one was able to get better than 2 points from their handicap. As there were 6 golfers amongst us without handicaps their scores were determined using the Callaway System which certainly evened things out somewhat.

The A Flight was won once more by Mike Allidi with a modest (for him) 32 points. There were 4 golfers on 31 points vying for second & third places with Tony Turnbough (17 point back nine, 13 points on last 6 holes & 8 points on last 3 holes) finishing second ahead of Stu “naughty boy” Rifkin (17 point back nine, 13 points on last 6 holes & 6 points on last 3 holes. The two unlucky golfers were Mashi Kaneta & Alain Taddei, both with 16 point back nines.

Much to his surprise Fred Dinely took out the B Flight with the best score of the day, 34 points, just 1 ahead of Tom Cotton in second place and in third place was Sandy Leiper with 31 points.

A Flight (0-20)

1st Mike Allidi (2) 32pts

2nd Tony Turnbough (20) 31pts

3rd Stu Rifkin (16) 31pts

B Flight (21+)

1st Fred Dinely 34pts

2nd Tom Cotton (23) 33pts

3rd Sandy Leiper 31pts

Near Pins: 3rd – Ken Bernek, 6th – Eric Black, 13th - Ken Bernek, 17th – Mashi Kaneta

Long Putts: 9th – Tom Cotton, 18th – Mashi Kaneta

It needed a count back to decide who was going to win the Compass Cap (awarded for worst score on the day) with your writer happily wearing the cap which was just reward for a very ordinary but very enjoyable game of golf.

Deefa the Dog was more than happy in his new home and was paraded by big Ken “let’s hear it for” Bernek in the absence of Hunter and collected many donations from the generous Growling Swan boys.

It was then back to The Growling Swan for a few hours and several celebratory beers with much humor and merriment. It was unanimous that the day had been an outstanding success and we are all looking forward to many more super days like this.

Thursday, June 7, Crystal Bay A & C – Stableford

Despite one “no show” we had a good group of fifteen golfers eager to compete in the second Growling Swan Golf event. The course was the popular Crystal Bay and as we assembled at G.S. we once more enjoyed Peter Grey’s complimentary tea & coffee and prepared for the trip down Highway 3.

We were welcoming back Bo Cardwell from a week with her family and Fred Cuypers from his 3 weeks in Europe. Unfortunately we were also saying Bon Voyage to Fred as he is returning to Perth, Australia in the next day or so. We also bade farewell to our good friend Paul Sharples who is returning to his work in Oman.

8.30 am is now our normal departure time from G.S. and we got away right on time, arriving at Crystal Bay 46 minutes later to find the caddies eagerly awaiting as there were very few other golfers present at that time. A & C were the designated nines to be played on the day and after some leisurely preparation our first group, a three ball teed off 10 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.50 am.

It was “millionaire’s golf” as there was no-one ahead of us and with almost perfect weather, albeit a few rain clouds above we proceeded to enjoy this great golf course which was in excellent condition. Playing the first nine, A in the very good time of one hour and fifty five minutes we had a short drinks break before commencing C nine which we had not played for quite some time. Continuing our good pace we finished the whole round in four hours & five minutes after taking another quick drinks break half way through the second nine.

With the smallish field we had just the one Grade plus nearest the pin rewards on all the par threes and longest first putts on A9 & C9, kindly sponsored by Mike Gosden & Daryl Evans.

Mostly the scoring was good on the day with one exceptional score, that being the 44 points by Mashi Kaneta who carded his best ever gross score of 75. Well done Mashi! This of course gave him first place and 5 points further back came Tom (T.C.) Cotton in second place.

There were 3 golfers on 38 points so a count back was necessary to determine third, fourth & fifth places. In third place came Stu “Heineken” Rifkin (20 point back nine) with departee Fred Cuypers (19 point back nine) coming fourth and another departee Paul Sharples (17 point back nine) completing the podium in fifth spot.

1st Mashi Kaneta (11) 44pts

2nd Tom Cotton (23) 39pts

3rd Stu Rifkin (16) 38pts

4th Fred Cuypers (14) 38pts

5th Paul Sharples (13) 38pts

Near Pins: A5 – Tom Cotton, A8 – Peter Blackburn, C4 – Mike Gosden, C7 – Alain Taddei

Long Putts: 9th – Mashi Kaneta, 18th – Peter Blackburn

Bo Cardwell celebrated her return by winning the Compass Cap (awarded for the worst score on the day) on a count back from Jerry Dobbs and Hunter paraded Deefa the Dog who is reveling in his new home and collected many donations from the generous Growling Swan Golf crew.

The winner of the Consistency Award for May, kindly sponsored by Mike Gosden was won by yours truly, Peter Blackburn.

Back at the Growling Swan afterwards we once more celebrated another successful outing and enjoyed the camaraderie and merriment.


Capt’ Steve tastes road-trip success - again

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

From left: Steve Mann, Rod Crosswell, Martin Kingswood & Rosco.

An early 8am Bangkok Airways flight carried fifteen of the seventeen players on the annual international tour, back in Siem Reap again, after a three year break; one of the other two had arrived the night before and the other was due in from the Philippines. The short 50 minute flight was painless and smooth enough, although the turbo-prop plane was a little too small to accommodate the likes of Steve Poznanski, who really needed about another one foot of leg room and a hole in the roof when he stood up.

The airport at Siem Reap, built in the traditional Cambodian style, is small but busy but the express clearance procedure at a cost of US$5 each, is worth every cent, as we sped our way through to the waiting transportation. Then it was off on the 15 minute journey to the hotel to drop off any non-required baggage and the girls for an early check-in; before leaving for the golf course, a further 15 minutes, for an 11.30 tee time.

Overall winner Steve Mann (front centre), runners -up; Martin Kingswood (front left) & Rod Crosswell (front right), Jim Bryan 4th (back left) & Pete Stonebridge 5th (back right).

The Nick Faldo designed course, which opened in 2009, was quiet and the weather fine, although there had clearly been heavy rain in recent hours as the fairways were quite wet, yet good, nevertheless we decided it prudent to play winter rules (pick, clean & place on the fairways). Upon reflection to play from the blues at 6666 yards, was probably a mistake but since it was only a practice round, we decided to give it a try; however the scores quickly demonstrated how tough it was, as the best in was 31pts from Capt’ Steve and Bill Rogers.

The greens were absolutely marvellous but the general layout somewhat disappointing, with the repetitive theme of water on the left and bunkers on the right, hole after hole; so much so that it was difficult to recall the holes after the round.

So, Steve got the nod on count back from Bill, both with 31 and Jim Bryan (30), Rick Forrest (29) and Sel Wegner (28) followed them home.

From left: Bill Rogers, Clyde Smith, General Jack & Rod Crosswell at Siem Reap Lake Resort.

Tuesday, June 5, Day 1 – Angkor Golf Resort

We stayed at the Ta Phrom hotel after failing to get a deal with the Sofitel where we were three years ago, chalk and cheese really absolutely incomparable but it’s just as well we didn’t bet a deal with the Sofitel as we later found out that the Prokeethra course, managed by them (Sofitel) is currently undergoing some serious maintenance work and renovation.

After the severe mauling we all received from the blue tees in yesterday’s practice round, we moved ourselves up about 500 yards to play from the white tees on the Faldo designed Angkor Golf Resort; not an ideal length on paper at about 6100 yards but with no roll and stacks of water, it was the best on offer.

With hardly anyone on the course and in very hot and humid conditions we were round quite quickly although the two groups which played the front nine first did get held up somewhat by a stray couple playing a two-ball, stray because they would have been better off shopping in Siem Reap than being on a golf course, it would have probably cost him less as well! In case you were wondering why we would take a two tee start with only four groups, the rain has a habit of falling very heavily in the afternoons – but not today.

So just look at the difference a tee makes, Capt’ Steve romped in with a gross 75 for 44pts followed home by Rod Crosswell with 40; Art also did well with 36 as did Martin (35) and Chad was really pleased a he grabbed the last podium place with 34.

There were just two ‘2’s from Rosco & Steve Mann

1st Steve Mann (11) 44pts

2nd Rod Crosswell (14) 40pts

3rd Arthur O’ Connor (11) 36pts

4th Martin Kingswood (15) 35pts

5th Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts

Wednesday, June 6, Day 2 – Siem Reap Lake Resort

So today we went to the Japanese designed, Korean owned Lake Resort course which opened only about three years ago. A slightly longer drive from the centre of town but shortened by our knowledgeable tour guide, Sam, who was with us on every journey expounding the history of Cambodia not only in the 12th century but also in the more recent and terrible times of the Khmer Rouge, which he could remember vividly as a child. Sam was a likeable guy, who everyday earned more and more respect from all the Outbackers on the tour and seemed to know pretty much everything about not only the Siem Reap area but also most of Cambodia.

From left: Jim Smith, Clyde Smith, Martin Kingswood & Bill Rogers with their caddies at Angkor Golf Resort.

Facing a course called “Siem Reap Lake Resort”, we felt in wise to treat the place with some respect as we chose to play from the silver tees, at some 6100 yards. It was a bit too short really, mainly because the water, although plentiful, didn’t really come into play but the layout was more interesting than the Faldo course with far greater changes in elevation as well. The greens however, showed their tender years and were no comparison (to the Faldo course) and it was difficult to get the ball to the hole, even downhill. The weather was once again incredibly good to us, no rain but very, very hot.

The same old faces rose to the top again as this time Rod got the better of Steve, both sharing 41pts and even though Rosco finished in third with 39, he let a great score go to waste as he stood three over gross with three holes to play. Rick, who Rosco beat on count back, also threw away a good score after racking up 23pts on the front nine.

There were three more ‘2’s today from Jim Bryan, Chris Davisson and another one from Rosco (his 2nd of the week).

1st Rod Crosswell (14) 41pts

2nd Steve Mann (11) 41pts

3rd Rosco Langoulant (12) 39pts

4th Rick Forrest (15) 39pts

5th Martin Kingswood (15) 38pts

Thursday, June 7, Final Round - Angkor Course

Of course no trip to Siem Reap would be complete without seeing the world renowned Angkor Wat and although constantly undergoing repair work, it is still an amazing sight to behold and just a 20 min tuk tuk ride out of town. Definitely well worth seeing but tiring at the end of a very hot day and particularly after a round of golf.

The final round was back on the Angkor course, again from the whites, and as is customary with these events the leaders go out last; with the last group being Steve Mann (85pts), Rod Crosswell (81pts), Martin Kingswood (73pts) and Rosco (71pts).

The half an hour earlier start proved unnecessary as there was only a short interruption for rain and there was nobody on the course, meaning everybody was in and finished by around 2pm, three hours before we had to be at the airport. At presentation, Jack thanked everybody for coming and being such a congenial group for which everybody should congratulate themselves.

Martin Kingswood made a run at the overall win with a great 44pts to win today’s round comfortably by five from Jim Bryan (39), with two day second placed man Rod, back in third with 36; Capt’ Steve who held the two day lead was back in fifth on 34.

As for the overall winner, Capt’ Steve held on to complete a double after winning in Chiang Mai last year; this time he won by three from the fast finishing Martin Kingswood, who shared the runner-up spot with Rod Crosswell; Jim Bryan was 10pts further back on 107 total to take fourth with the final podium place going to Pete Stonebridge with 99

There were four more ‘2’s from Art O’Connor, Chris Davisson and Sel Wegner got two.

1st Martin Kingswood (15) 44pts

2nd James Bryan (17) 39pts

3rd Rod Crosswell (14) 36pts

4th Sel Wegner (12) 35pts

5th Steve Mann (11) 34pts

Overall Results

1st Steve Mann (11) 119pts

2nd Rod Crosswell (14) 117pts

3rd Martin Kingswood (15) 117pts

4th James Bryan (17) 107pts

5th Peter Stonebridge (15) 99pts

Note: A full list of the results can be found at the Outback Bar website at: www.outbackgolfbar.com.


A double take for the 2 K’s

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, June 4, Rayong C.C. - Stableford

CSS 72

1st Al Keith (5) 30pts

2nd Terry Hodgkiss (25) 29pts

With another holiday when all courses push up the prices and players migrate either back to their own membership clubs or to one of those that are still within the budget, it was back to Rayong Country Club where the price is about the same as most other courses on a standard weekday.

Al Keith.

As usual the course was not quite up to the standard of many of the others but still provides excellent value for money. It was expected that there would be a very heavy demand for places on the course which turned out not to be the case, with it virtually empty other than the Pattaya Golf Society playing from the first while our competition teed off from the tenth. In the event the participation of another competition over the course meant that the day did not become non-counting after the scores from the tenth tee were less than spectacular.

Al Keith amassed, if that is the correct phrase, just enough points to take the win as the slow greens took their toll on the smaller than usual field. This mirrored his win the previous week out of Soi 13 although being some twelve shots higher.

Terry Hodgkiss just about managed to keep the ball in play around the tight and tricky layout to take second spot.

There were no 2’s in either division

Shuichi Kodaka.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed back Tomas Nilsson. There was also an announcement of the cessation of the tradition at The Haven of the winner buying a drink for the rest of the competitors attending the prize giving, after some extended discussions amongst the local members of the group during the past weeks. However there would still be a free drink for all those attending the after competition gatherings as the bar would in future provide it.

Friday, June 8,
Crystal Bay - Stableford

CSS 71

1st Shuichi Kodaka (18) 39pts

2nd Jens Gunnarsson (15) 37pts

3rd Alwyne Burley (18) 36pts

4th Yasuo Suzuki (11) 34pts

5th Mike Dabanovich (11) 32pts

Crystal Bay has not quite returned to the glory days but if progress continues to be made with the condition of the course in general it will not be long before it will be once again a must visit for all players in the area. The greens particularly are getting back to the old speed and flatness having benefitted tremendously from a serious upgrade in greens keeping.

The condition of the course allied to the very competitive pricing during the low season will ensure that it remains on the schedule as a regular feature during the coming months. It is to be hoped that a similar effort will be made to return the changing facilities to the past when they also were amongst the best in the area.

With the course playing so well it was little surprise to find that the scores were of a much better standard that the week’s earlier competition.

Shuichi Kodaka made it the second win in the week for a previous winner, making the pictures of the winners look very similar to last week’s, as he went three under handicap even if once again the last hole almost undid all the good play that preceded it, he had enough of a margin to wrap up the day’s top honour.

Jens Gunnarsson took second place with a solid round that include just one blank hole and he finished strongly to consign Alwyne Burley to third place after the latter had followed a steady front nine with a two under handicap inward half.

Yasuo Suzuki made it a happy return to his second home with a very tidy round for the most part but he suffered a little from travel exhaustion at the close, taking just five points from the last four holes.

Mike Dabanovich started slowly and never quite got up to speed during a round that included four 3 pointers and four 1 pointers and a couple of wipes. There will surely be better days for him in the near future.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but the first division rollovers pool was taken by Mike Dabanovich.

Before the presentations there was a welcome for new member Peter Newham, who having arrived from Australia was given a rare opportunity to view a replica of The Ashes which has become a tradition for all visiting players from that country. This (The Ashes replica) was a donation by a fellow countryman after the original had been retained during the 2010/11 series by England in Australia, having previously been virtually owned down under from the late eighties until the 2005 series.

After a few eyes had been dried, there were welcome backs for Rodney Hayes and Yasuo Suzuki and it was time for Stephen to blow the horn and get everyone in a party mood once more.

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.


Missler swinging in the rain

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, June 4, Eastern Star – Stableford

A public holiday today and we had a reasonable turnout today considering half of our guys have gone home for a 1/2 month break. There were six groups out and there were a few three and four-balls spread throughout the course as we ventured round.

Mike Missler and Joe Kubon - winners on Friday at Eastern Star.

There was a fresh breeze coming off the coast and this reflected in the scores. In his last game with us before his return to the UK for six months, Alan Pilkington won division 1 with 34 points, while in the frame again Chris Voller took second after beating Mikael Andersson on a 19/17 back nine count back, both coming in with 33 points each.

The cut today was 5-16 and 17 plus and Brian Blackford, playing his last few games with us before his re-location to Issan, won division 2 with 32 points after beating the new recruit Ken Miller on a 20/15 back nine count back. Joe Kubon, now recovering from his operation, was third with 30 points.

In the ‘2’s today, playing off nine still, Ian Speirs shot one on the 17th to three feet from the pin and earned himself the prize in division 1, while there was a rollover in division 2.

Near pins went to Mike Missler, Ian Speirs, Chris Voller, Brian Blackford, Peter Davies and Fred Temminck.

Friday, June 8,
Eastern Star - Stableford

As we headed towards the Rayong coast the skies were very dark and dismal in the distance and the 331 road was heavily covered in rain and the feeling was there would be no game today. As we approached Easter Star we assembled on the first tee and the clouds were dispersing slightly and we thought it might be ok. There were four ‘no goes’ overnight so we had only five four-balls out today.

The cut was 7-16 in division 1 and 17+ in division 2 and the best score of the day was in division 1 with Mike Missler winning with 40 points. Mikael Andersson took second with 37 and Chris Voller came in third on 36.

After months in the doldrums and now with a minor disability, Joe Kubon bounced back to winning ways with victory in division 2 and 36 points. Ronney Howett claimed second five points behind and Peter Davies beat Iain Walsh on a 19/15 back nine count back for third after they both came in with 30 points.

As we were here on Monday, the rollover kitty sponsored a 36-hole competition for two divisions for a fun prize and Mike Missler won in division 1 with a 32 and 40, with Mikael Andersson second with 70 points. Rod Howett was second in division 2 with 57 and the winner Joe Kubon scored of 30 and 36 to finish with 66 points.

In the ‘2’s a rollover from last Friday in division 2 plus Mondays game here and today makes for an interesting game on the 15th June while in division 1 in the frame again Mike Missler birdied the 17th, and his other half Faa was smiling at the presentation as she is now having a driving range lesson every day and will be joining us soon.

Near pins went to Mikael Andersson, Grant Cadell, Arthur Hancock, Mike Missler, Peter Davies and Bryan Priestley.

Another four Bon Voyages this week to our regulars Alan Pilkington, Pete Sumner, Kari Kuparinen and David Taylor.


Brian’s the big winner

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday’s winners Brian and Sean with Colin the Golf Manager.

Sunday, June 3, Green Valley - Stableford

A Flight

1st Sean Connolly (10) 40pts

2nd Tom Byrne (14) 38pts

B Flight

1st Brian Cooper (23) 42pts

2nd Jez Lees (15) 33pts

Near Pins: No 4 Steve Little, No 9 Tom Byrne, No 12 Dave Boran, No 17 Brian Cooper.

Brian ‘Mini’ Cooper was the big winner this Sunday as he shattered the field with a very impressive 42 points to take a nine shot margined B Flight and man of the match victory over Jez ‘the principal’ Lees. Jez gratefully accepted the silver while the Donkey and the Eagle a shot further back juggled for a nonexistent bronze place.

Leaping up to the senior flight we saw Sean Connolly atop the podium with a sound 40 points. Sean was two shots clear of the inform Irishman Tom Byrne, but Tom did have the comfort of a coverted near pin. ‘Broad more’ Bob’s 37 points was good for zero satang but he manage to joined Tom, Steve Little and Dave Boran for a share of the 2’s pot.

Monday, June 4, Khao Kheow - Stableford

1st Nick Odnoral (19) 39pts

2nd Mike Jeffreys (18) 35pts

3rd Gerry Roche (18) 35pts

Sometimes one has to go to multiple count backs to determine the winner and other times the winner jumps right of the page. For the midweek stint at the Pete and Perry Dye’s Khao Kheow course the latter was the case. Nick Odnoral’s 39 points was four clear of Mike ‘the Welsh wizard’ and Gerry Roche. Mike was the better when he compared his back nine leaving Jerry to tidy up the flight.

Paul Hack was the sole heir to the 2’s pot

Wednesday, June 6, Bangpra - Stableford

Day 1 Monthly Lewinski/ Golf Club Challenge

A Flight

1st Tore Eliassen (14) 39pts

2nd Ed Wyckoff (8) 35pts

3rd Ken Aihara (5) 35pts

4th Chaten Patel (13) 35pts

B Flight

1st Joe Tynan (33) 39pts

2nd Gerry Rafferty (14) 35pts

3rd Christy Knight (21) 35pts

4th Mike Jeffreys (18) 31pts

Bangpra was the host to our co-sanctioned event with our mates at The Golf Club. Tore Eliassen was in fine form as he led A Flight home with a sparkling 39pts to co-lead the first day. Ed ‘the Senator’ Wyckoff, Ken Aihara, Chaten ‘the Raj’ Patel, and Salvatore Brizzi were all log jammed on 35 points vying for the final three A Flight podium spots. Count back dictated that they finish in that order with Salvatore losing out by a whisker but well in the hunt for the overall prize.

B Flight belonged to Lewiinski’s most senior player, 78 years young Joe ‘sat nav’ Tynan, with a splendid co-man of the match 39 points. Joe was four strokes clear of fellow Irishmen Gerry Rafferty and Christy ‘good’ Knight as Mike ‘the Welsh wizard’ edged Keith McLachlan for the last flight podium spot.

Lewiinski’s led the scoring averages 29 to the Golf Club’s 27. It would be very interesting to see if Tore or Joe can hold on for the overall prize.

The evening presentation at Lewiinski’s was fantastically well supported and a great success. Once again the staff coped admirably and our thanks go out to them.

To find out the outcome of this event please find the result in the Golf Club’s Friday report located else were in the sports pages.

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.


Phillips wins close encounter at Rayong

The Pattaya Golf Society (IPGC) at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

Visakha Buddha Day, 4th June, so the Pattaya Golf Society visited Rayong C.C. with a baker’s dozen of golfers for another session of public holiday golf, on a course almost empty by comparison with other local courses. As usual a competition local rule was applied because of the peculiar nature of the track, with its bare patches, and the group got away well before time.

Scoring was difficult with hard fairways and slowish greens but Brian Shaw, Mr Len and the “Rabbi” performed better than most with 35 points each for a share of second place. One point ahead was Aussie Lindsay Phillips who took his maiden win with the group on 36 points.

Brian Shaw recorded the only birdie ‘2’ of the day on the 16th hole and the Booby Bevy and free beer draw was cancelled in deference to the solemnity of the day and the vigilance of the “Boys in Brown”.

Superb Seil

On Friday, 8th June the Pattaya Golf Society visited Pattana to play a stableford competition on the B and C nines which were in perfect condition with lush fairways and splendidly consistent greens. It was certainly the best conditioned course the group has played in months and the fee was remarkable value for money when other local courses, in poorer condition, are charging ransoms for groups with unachievable numbers.

Some very good golf was played and Tony Thorne turned in a score of 34 points for third place. Dave Wilkinson conjured up a rare sub-par round of 37 for second place but the day belonged to Seil Revels who produced a round of stunning quality with his card bearing only two bogeys against four birdies and a dozen pars. Gross seventy (forty four points) is a remarkable achievement and represents the best round with the group in more than a year.

Incredibly there were no birdie ‘2’s.

In the opinion of all the golfers it had been an excellent day at Pattana and the PGS looks forward to repeating the trip next month and during the rest of low season.


Russell wins at Emerald with impressive back nine

Backyard Golf Society

Russell with the staff from the Blue Sky Bar.

Arriving at Emerald Golf Course, for our weekly game of golf with the Backyard Golf Society, the weather looked pretty awful so everyone was a bit concerned about getting the full round in. Ten players this week with nine in all competitions and we welcomed Darren for his first game with the society and also Kit, who is on a fly-in visit from the UK.

All ten players finished the front nine but Andy Oz staggered off after the ninth hole with either a knee problem or prolonged abuse of alcohol. No one was really sure! With nine players left the back nine holes were completed without further incident and with the rain holding off it was back to the club house for prize giving.

Four players tied with 33 points in the stableford competition; Dan M, JJ, John Mac and Russell, with Russell ending up as the winner with a back nine score of 22. John Mac took nearest the pin prize and the skin results were as follows: Dab M (8), Kit (7), Terry C (2), and Russell (1).

With Andy Oz going straight back to see a doctor it was then left down to the rest to make sure he was not missed in Ban Chang!


Browne & Baccioli again

Phoenix Tuesday/Friday Golf Group.

Giorgio Baccioli and Patrick Browne with a staff member at The Relax Bar.

Mike Gerrard

Friday 1st June would be the last game on the Mountain course for a while. We were told that the Ocean course would be open by next Tuesday. We all hold our breath hoping that the ground-staff have not decided to open the newly maintained course too early and it is in poor condition. We wait with bated breath!

Onto the game today, which was most enjoyable with nice clear skies with a cool breeze. Well, of course it would have been a good day. Yours truly was the winner with 36 points, followed closely by Stuart Gordon with 35 points and John Willoughby third with 33 points. Sadly we said goodbye to John for a while whilst he goes back to Sweden for the summer (he is English but lives and works in Sweden).

Our main day was, of course Tuesday 4th June. Well we were all pleasantly pleased to find that, at last, the management and ground-staff have finally listened to much given advice and waited until the Ocean course was in superb condition before opening it (the first time in 10 years that I can remember that they have done that). So, not instead of closing a good course and opening a poor course we can enjoy pristine conditions at all times. Let’s hope it lasts! Our sincere congratulations go to all involved.

Winners today were Giorgio Baccioli and Patrick Browne with 36 points each. Giorgio would have been the clear winner but it was difficult to split the prizes so we awarded the same to each player. Behind on 34 points to claim third place was Bill Hewitt.

Two near pins today were won by Patrick Browne & Bill Hewitt. Lucky draw prizes (donated by our hosts The Relax Bar, went to John (“I never win the lucky draw”) Bartley and Stuart Gordon.

Next week we play for the KPK Food Services prize under Stableford rules.

Note: We play every Tuesday and Friday at Phoenix. If anyone is interested in golf or sea fishing call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565.


Davies finds some form at Burapha

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Friday’s winners, from left, Sugar (winner Div C), Lamun (3rd Div B), Joe (winner Div B) and Craig (winner Div A).

Monday, June 4, Burapha – Stableford

It’s pleasing to report that at long last the Burapha management refrained from increasing their prices to the Outback on a holiday (Visaka Bucha Day) and were rewarded with 25 Outbackers here, playing off the blues on courses A & B and although it was a holiday we all went round in under four hours. The course was in its usual great condition from tee to green although the rough around the greens was deep and difficult to find your ball.

Welcome back Norm Cheetham and to Dave Boran on a fleeting visit and a special welcome back to Dave Arrowsmith, who left Thailand almost three years ago; this is a surprise, where are you mate?

The top score of the day came from Dave Davies who at long last has regained some form after his recent foot surgery; Dave scored an excellent 39pts to win Div B and beat his good friend Tony (37pts) by two in the process; third was Dave Boran (35pts) beating Brad Papas on count back.

The aforementioned Dave Arrowsmith won Div A with 36 from Craig Jolly (35) and Andy Todd, also with 35.

There was just one ‘2’ from Bob Barnes.

Div A (0-13)

1st David Arrowsmith (12) 36pts

2nd Craig Jolly (8) 35pts

3rd Andy Todd (10) 35pts

Div B (14+)

David Davies (28) 39pts

Tony McDonough (14) 37pts

David Boran (14) 35pts

Tuesday, June 5, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford

With the usual Tuesday organiser (Chad) away on the Outback trip to Cambodia it was Nigel taking care of things today. Just 10 players – 3 ladies and 7 men. The day was fine and hot, the course was reasonable and not busy.

It was Orn Kanasaengsri (14) with the best of the ladies with 37 points, who play their own competition from the red tees, with both Orn and Laong securing a ‘2’.

For the men playing white then blue tees, Alan Whittingham (14) came in with a fine 40 points in pole and showing that the responsibility for the day did not weigh too much, Nigel Cannon (21) was runner-up with 36 points. Final place on the podium and good to see him back went to ‘The Colonel’ aka Bob Pearce (16) with 35 points. The men had no 2’s.

Outback will continue to support PCC during their refurbishment of the back 9 – playing the front 9 twice using white and blue tees.

1st Alan Whittingham (14) 40pts

2nd Orn Kanasaengsri (14) 37pts

3rd Nigel Cannon (21) 36pts

4th Bob Pearce (16) 35pts

Tuesday, June 5, Laem Chabang – Stableford

We have been desperately trying to increase the number of tee times booked here at Laem Chabang due to overwhelming popularity and the alternate course to Pattaya C.C. on the second double course day of the week. 25 Outbackers here, having to play in five-balls, which seemed to go quite well, getting round in around four hours which was pretty good going; still playing C & A, as B hasn’t been re-opened yet. The course was in good shape as always but the greens were pretty slick which put a damper on many a golfer’s score card.

Neil McMillan slipped through the net to win Div B with an amazing score of 42 points, at the first time of asking but won’t find it quite so easy next time as his handicap was slashed by three. Second was Steve Milne with 33, beating Tim Knight (welcome back) on count back.

Bernie Stafford sizzled for a while and did enough to take Div A with 34pts from Max Mitchell (31) and Kissy Buchanan (and welcome back to you too).

There were two ‘2’s from Andy Butterworth and Craig Jolly.

Div A (0-13)

1st Bernie Stafford (12) 34pts

2nd Max Mitchell (12) 31pts

3rd Keith Buchanan (12) 29pts

Div B (14+)

1st Neil McMillan (36) 42pts

2nd Steve Milne (16) 33pts

3rd Tim Knight (18) 33pts

Wednesday, June 6, Siam Plantation – Stableford

As with Laem Chabang, Siam Plantation was also over-subscribed as 19 Outbackers turned out today playing B & C, requiring some manipulation from member, Lumpy, persuading the management to allow one five-ball to play. The mathematics don’t quite work out there, so there must have been 21 players, a couple of them not in the comp. Whatever the case, thanks Lumpy for helping Suzi out and thanks Suzi for all the good work you’ve done running the golf this week in the absence of Capt’ Steve and the General.

We teed off a little bit early and the course was in its customary fine condition and the greens were fast; the only downfall being that the sand in the bunkers was very hard due to the heavy thunderstorm the night before but Greg Hill had become a master of them after 18 holes with the day’s top score of 35pts to win Div B from Roy Barrell (33) and Frank Mills (32).

Scotty Qua returned to the course after an absence of a few months and immediately found winning form with 33pts to take Div A by two from three tied on 31pts, Andy Butterworth, Kev Reid and Lumpy, finishing in that order after the usual count backs.

There were no ‘2’s.

Div A (0-13)

1st Scotty Qua (13) 33pts

2nd Andy Butterworth (12) 31pts

3rd Kev Reid (12) 31pts

Div B (14+)

1st Greg Hill (19) 35pts

2nd Roy Barrell (21) 33pts

3rd Frank Mills (16) 32pts

Friday, June 8, Green Valley – Stableford

Not only did Capt’ Steve find the energy to go out and play again today after a winning four rounds on the trot in Siem Reap, but he also organised the day here at Green Valley as Suzi, who has done such a great job all week, returns to the UK for a couple of weeks to catch up with husband John.

A good turnout of 35 played at this ever popular course but unfortunately a slightly slower than usual round which perhaps was the cause of lower scoring than last week. The day’s top score went to the Sugarman with 42pts, for which he will receive nearly a 2 shot handicap cut and he won Div C by six from Tim Knight (36) and John & Brad both with 34.

Div B went to The PSC Golf Chairman, Joe Mooneyham, with the day’s next best score of 40pts from Martin Kingswood (37pts), fresh from his second place in Siem Reap and he will see his handicap come down again to 13; in third was Lamun Hanley (35) and lovely to see her back playing at the Outback again.

Div A had Craig Jolly & Jack Butler both with 37 from course specialist, Jan Eriksen on 36.

There were six ‘2’s, two from Paul Greenaway on holes 4 & 12, then one from Craig Jolly (12th), and three on the 16th from Paul Bourke, Sunanta Duangwaw & Bob Lindborg.

Div A (0-11)

1st Craig Jolly (8) 37pts

2nd Jack Butler (11) 37pts

3rd Jan Eriksen (7) 36pts

Div B (12-16)

1st Joe Mooneyham (15) 40pts

2nd Martin Kingswood (14) 37pts

3rd Lamun Hanley (15) 35pts

Div C (17+)

1st Sugar Ray Handford (18) 42pts

2nd Tim Knight (18) 36pts

3rd John O’Keefe (17) 34pts

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.


Sumner and Lodge brothers bow out in style

IPGC golf from The Links

Sunday, June 3, Green Valley – Stableford

Again only one fixture this week, and another good turnout for Green Valley. Today was hot and humid, with a strong breeze throughout, and with the greens being cored and top dressed earlier in the week, one would have expected scoring to be difficult.

Peter Sumner.

However, one would have thought wrong, and with the fairly strong field making a mockery of the conditions, the standard scratch for the day was reduced to 69 and one category one player was even awarded 0.1 back for only shooting his handicap!

On a day when over half the field shot their handicap or better, those that scored 37 or 38 points could be forgiven for thinking they had a chance of the prizes, but alas, this was not the case, as three players, all starting their final week of this visit, tied for the lead on 41 points.

Ger Lodge was the first to fall on the count back, managing only a paltry 20 points on the back 9, one behind his brother Ted. The (half) round of the day, however, went to Peter Sumner, who, after struggling to a measly 17 points on the front 9, returned in 2 under gross for an outstanding 24 points and first place.

There were five 2’s recorded, with the pot diluted between Ted Lodge (2), Ger Lodge, Russell Goldsworthy and Les Cobban.

Ted & Ger Lodge.

1st Peter Sumner (8) 41pts

2nd Ted Lodge (11) 41pts

3rd Ger Lodge (18) 41pts

4th Jon Batty (8) 38pts

5th Alan Pilkington (9) 37pts

Note: The Links depart from the hotel on Soi Buakhao at 9.30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays and for Rayong Green Valley every Sunday. Sign up at the hotel or contact Jon on 080 021 1034. A full schedule of courses can be found on the IPGC website www.ipgc.org.


Handscombe nicks the trophy

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Colin, Nick Handscombe & Steve.

Steve Ellison

Monday, June 4, Green Valley (White Tees) – Stableford

1st Steve Little (7) 41 points

2nd Ken Aihara (5) 40 points

3rd Jeff Calrow (13) 38 points

Another good turnout for low season for our regular Monday venue of Green Valley. The course has been in better shape certainly, greens were a bit on the bumpy side, but it’s the same for everybody, as the old saying goes. Hollow tine greens were the order of the day and it made no difference to a couple of guys who managed to shoot in the 40’s so it couldn’t have been that bad, eh?

Pattana B-3, Aced by Steve Little.

Steve Little has not been to Pattaya in a few years and he made an impressive comeback by shooting 41 points to win today’s contest. From Yeepon, as the Thais call it, Ken Aihara- Mr. Steady- should have won with a great score of 40 points but Steve had other ideas about that. Last on the podium but certainly not least, Jeff “Make mine a latte” Calrow closed out the top three with another respectable day of golf and a 38 on the card. See y’all next Monday!

Wednesday, June 3, Bangpra (White Tees) – Stableford

1st Ken Aihara (5) 35pts

2nd Chaten Patel (13) 35pts

3rd Nick Handscombe (12) 33pts

Time once again for that monthly contest with our pals for The Golf Club – Lewiinski’s Challenge. The venue for the first day of our 2 day event was Bangpra. This golf course is in great nick with lightning fast greens and should be on your play list at such keen prices. There were 40 of us who took the challenge this outing and another great day out was on the cards.

We don’t call him Mr. Steady for nothing, and shooting just one stroke off his handicap today gave Ken Aihara enough points on the scorecard for victory. 35 points also went to Chaten Patel who lost on count back- better luck next time mate! Nicky was third with a Handscombe score of 33 to round out the leaderboard from The Golf Club.

The team score told a different tale though, with TGC on 27.0 and the lads from Lewiinski’s on 29.0, a substantial shot difference. There was much work to be done on Friday, our second day of competition.

Thanks go to Colin and the Lewiinski’s bar and kitchen staff for their hospitality at the presentation and dinner afterwards, we all had a great time.

Friday, June 8, Pattana (White tees) – Stableford

1st Nick Handscombe (12) 39pts

2nd Chaten Patel (13) 37pts

3rd Tore Eliassen (10) 31pts

The second day of The Challenge was before us at the lovely Pattana Golf & Sports Club. Did you know there is a 40,000 seat football pitch here? It is a sprawling complex with the best and biggest clubhouse on the Eastern Seaboard and the 27 holes of golf here are outstanding.

There was some chatter in the locker room about the U.S. Open and it looks like either Tiger or Lee for the trophy, but it should be a most interesting competition indeed, and good luck to both of them.

We had a long road ahead of us as Lewiinski’s took a big lead on day 1. The course itself was in fine shape so no excuses please for bad play. One hole stood out in particular, B-3 for Steve Little who took only one swing to put the ball in the hole! Congratulations to Steve, his first hole-in-one in 24 years of golf! The Lewiinski’s side was relentless on the day and we had small chance to play catch up.

We all headed back to The Golf Club for our signature BBQ and presentation after the comp. The totals at the end looked embarrassing for The Golf Club as we ended up losing with a 56.57 point total Stableford scoring average to Lewiinski’s 62.08 points.

The good news was that one of our lads, Nick Handscombe, won the day and the overall crystal goblet trophy with 72 points, beating our own Chaten Patel on count back, with Tore Eliassen taking third. That evens up this year’s Challenge Competition at 3-3 so let’s see what happens next month! Thanks guys, and keep it in the fairway!

Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We play on Monday, Wednesday and Friday so come join us for a seriously fun day out. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclub pattaya.com and for more information mail us: [email protected] and see updates at www. facebook.com/golfclub pattaya.


Funk gets his groove on at Phoenix

PSC golf from the Blue Moose

The weather gods were looking out for the Blue Moose players both on Monday the 4th as well as Thursday the 7th. Monday’s action was at the Pattaya Country Club. No rate changes for the holiday and there was only the slightest wait at the turn and then the play moved well. Clouds kept the sun at bay for the entire 18.

Thursday’s top two - Bruce Funk and Richard Hall.

Finishing in first place with 41 points was Rich Murphy followed by Janathorn Kunaha with 40 points.

Thursdays group was also favored with cloudy skies and no rain. Fortunately the downpours have been limited to the evenings and that helps the grass. Phoenix was the venue and the course was in good condition. Play moved well starting with an 8:20 tee off.

Coming back to the Blue Moose the cards were tallied. While waiting for the results, the Blue Moose staff furnished rolls, tuna salad sandwich material, potato salad and crackers. When the counting was finished, Bruce Funk led the group with 39 points followed by Richard Hall with 35 points. Various beverages were consumed as the players kibitzed about their game.


Scribe wins in ‘forgettable’ week

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Friday’s top two with one of Bert’s finest.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, June 5, Khao Kheow – Stableford

This is a fine course and it is certainly one of the favourites of Tropical Bert’s golfers. Playing here every month you tend to build up a relationship with the ‘Management’ and recently one of our members took ill on this course, and the help from the management could not have been more positive. It is also the course we use for the ‘Poppy Golf Tournament’ and it has to be said they are very good to deal with. So this year we will be going there on November 9 for another ‘Poppy Golf Tournament’. Watch this space!

This day we were at the course on time, so off to the first tee and we were to play the A&B Nines, very tough on a day when the wind was blowing. The A Nine turned out to be very difficult; sometimes this course can be harder than on other days, and the greens in particular were of different quality, some fast, most slow. Still, as a three ball and first off we zoomed around, but the results were very indifferent.

So onto the B Nine with nobody in sight both in front and behind, and even though we were playing really ‘average golf’ the holes flew by. Indeed, we got around at a really impressive rate which saw us in the restaurant a full 75 minutes ahead of the group behind, which admittedly were a four ball and walking. Or enjoying the scenery!

One of the troubles of being in so early, when you collect the score cards etc, is that you also have to wait till not only all the cards are in but the results are tabulated etc, so a long yawn is in prospect. Mind, the food here is fine and the views are spectacular. Still, the long haul eventually came to an end so it was into the cars and back to Tropical Bert’s.

As I sat there the phone rang and it was Max Scott asking where Barry Elphick was, and as I said ‘I am not my brother’s keeper’, but had his phone number and would give him a call, with no reply. Then the phone rang again and it was Keith Phillips saying he had brought Barry back with him as he had noticed him standing by his clubs waiting for me. Good Old Keith. This was when the penny dropped and I realised he was one of my buddies in my car and his phone was in the car. My ‘senior moment’ for the day!

So back at Bert’s it was time to get on with the presentation and the scores were below par, except for one player. In the A Flight, 0 to 16, and obviously ‘talented golfers’, believe it or not, the winner was Max Scott with 31 points; proves what a tough day it was. Second was Gerry Crolla with 30 points and in third was Mike Gaussa with 29 points.

In the B Flight we had much better scores putting to bed the idea that better golfers play better on tough courses. The winner was that ‘very forgettable golfer’ Barry Elphick, with a score that outshone all the other players, of 39 points. I remember now why I left him behind! In second, also with a good score, was Daryl Evans with 36 points. We then got back to normal and in third was Bob Lindborg with 31 points on count back over ‘Turbo’.

Presentation over I had a couple of ‘cold un’s’ and back for an early night. After all, when the memory starts to go you need all the sleep you can get!

Near Pins: Brian Parish, Bob Watson, Paul Sharples, Barry Elphick.

Friday, June 8, Rayong C. C. – Stableford

Not having been to this course for some time it was a chance to see if the condition had improved since last time I went, and to see how the new system of two players in a cart not needing a caddy worked out.

The clubhouse is basic to say the least, however we were soon booked in, although the scramble to have two to a cart, so they did not have to have a caddy, caused a bit of a holdup. The scribe stuck to the norm and had a cart and a caddy which with an odd number playing meant I ended up in a five-ball at the end.

So off we went and it did not take long to realise the condition of the course had not improved and in fact had even deteriorated. Still, we plowed on and with a strong wind it was going to be a difficult day.

One of the things I found, as a ‘Golden Oldie’ was that a lack of caddies meant that a long time was spent looking for balls as the ‘old’ eyes did not follow the ball. Also if you had a caddy she tended to be expected to do the things that normally all the caddies did. Habits die hard. I also found that players tend to leave things behind in the cart, a thing that with practice can be overcome.

Round over it was a quick visit to the restaurant, then into cars and back to Bert’s. The scribe, after his ‘senior’ moment on Tuesday, actually managed to remember all his passengers, which is a major step forward.

Back at Bert’s it was soon time for the presentation, where it was unanimously agreed that the course was in very poor condition, or worse. The playing without caddies situation was also discussed and there were mixed views, however for me it definitely slows the game up, and more balls are lost.

The winner with a good 40 points was the scribe, and just goes to show what a caddy can do to help as she found many a ball. Also the new driver started to work once I sorted out the various adjustments.

In second was Joel Flor with 37 points, also a good showing on this bare course. In third was Alan Sullivan with 35 points and we then had a count back on 33 points that saw Mashi Kaneta in fourth and Turbo and Ada Tse just missing out.

Near Pins: Derek Brook (2), Alan Sullivan


Richardson makes it a weekly double

PSC golf from Café Kronborg

Wednesday, June 6, Bangpra – Stableford

We set off on time for a 43 minute transit to Bangpra where we have not been since October. Check-in was speedy and we teed-off seventeen minutes early at 0943. The course proved to be in exceptional condition as always and because of the sports day the course was fully booked but we completed the round in 4 hours and 18 minutes.

Back in the clubhouse we welcomed back Joe Vanderwegon from Belgium and Volker Buley from Germany and said farewell to Mick O’Connor going back to the UK to cook for the upcoming Olympics.

Due to reduced numbers there was only one flight.

1st Dave Richardson (28) 34pts

2nd Kristin Helgason (18) 32pts

3rd Mike Winfield (20) 27pts

Thursday, June 7m Plutaluang - Stabelford

It was another on time departure for a 43 minute transit to the Royal Thai Navy Plutaluang golf course. We teed-off at 0930, thirty minutes early on the east loop followed by the south. Again the courses were busy but we made it around in 4 hours and 10 minutes. The east loop has had a lot of renovations the last two months but was in very good condition as was the south.

Back in the clubhouse we all enjoyed the panoramic views of the east and south nines and the inexpensive prices for food and drink. We had another small field for the second time this week, with just the one flight.

1st Dave Richardson (28) 35pts

2nd Kristin Helgason (18) 30pts

3rd Chris Walsh (22) 30pts


Sunday Softball sizzles at the Thai Polo grounds

PSC Sunday Softball

Tyler hits one to right field as 2nd baseman Gep, and 1st baseman Dirk get ready to field the ball for their Sunrise Taco team.

Another sunny, action packed Sunday at the splendid Thai Polo Grounds saw the Soi Dogs defeat the Sunrise Taco team 2 games to 1 to win the tripleheader. The Soi Dogs were led by their young guns, Tyler and Jerry who have happily returned to their Pattaya homeland.

The hard hitting of Dave D., Rick S. Greg and Andy, plus the speedy base path running of Jerry, Phil and Tyler were too much for the Soi Dogs. Sunrise Taco won the first game by a score of 17-12, and the third and rubber match by a score of 9-5 to win the series.

Soi Dogs bats woke up in game 2 when Stockton moved to lead-off hitter, hit a triple that was followed by doubles from Rodney, Ben, and Harris and the only over the fence homerun of the day by yours truly. Sorry for tooting my own horn, but they did move the fences a further 10 meters back from last week, and it was a beauty of a smash to right field (Vince even cut his leg running into the fence trying to catch it).

Sunrise Tacos easily won game 2 by a score of 13-2. But in the end, the day belonged to youth and experience. Rick S. was a crafty pitcher and a huge welcome back to Phil, who still knows how to hit the ball with precision.

We at Pattaya Sports Club Softball would like to thank our new sponsors: The Golf Club in LK Metro; The A Team, located off of Soi Excite and beside the Bowling Green, in joining with Sunrise Tacos in Jomtien, beside Shenanigans, in helping us to grow our league into a 4 team affair. Now we need just one more title sponsor for our 4-team league to be formed. Furthermore, a huge thanks goes out to the Pattaya Sports Club who are not only sponsor us, but also put us on their website and assist us in getting new recruits to the posh and beautiful Thai Polo Grounds, where we play every Sunday noon to 4pm.

We are still in need of a few good players, so if interested email John Stockton (scrabbleking @gmail.com), myself (igolfwells @gmail.com) or check us out on the pattayasportsclub website.


Koh Samui 2012: A regatta for all seasons

The racing was close throughout the Samui Regatta. (Photo by SamuiPics.com.)

Peter Cummins

There was something for everyone at the just-completed 11th Koh Samui Regatta: thirty-two entries and 500 crew members from some 20 countries, variable winds, interspersed with storms and clear “Samui” skies, excellent race management and a round of parties during the week-long event.

Challenging racing in the five designated classes, resulted in narrow wins for almost all the champion sailors, all listed here on this page. Prizes were awarded at the sumptuous closing dinner and party, sponsored by the Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui, host venue for this self-titled “Tropical Island Regatta.”

A highlight of the final evening was the presentation by renowned yachting scribe, Captain Marty of Asian Yachting of the 2011/2012 awards for the Asian Grand Prix Yachting Champion. The coveted blue jacket was donned this time around by Hong King’s Neil Pryde, as the Skipper of the Year, while his entry, “HiFi” was crowned Yacht of the Year. These accolades are based on the skippers and/or boats’ aggregate performances over a year of Asian regattas.

The Centara Grand Beach Resort was the focal point during the week’s sailing fest, with numerous beach-side social/prize giving events every evening, at the appropriately-named Regatta Tavern. The opening gamut at Zico’s, the Centara’s Brazilian Grill and Bar, was presided over by Suthep Thaugsuban, member of the House of Representatives and Chalorsak, Vanichatoen, Deputy Governor of Surtthani Province, adding official credence to the event which was totally supported by the private sector of Samui.

The whole island was behind the Regatta, and co-founder of the event, John Stall, with wife Bang, opened the Trade Winds for a splendid party and the Beach Republic held the other “off-location” events.

Another highlight of the prize-giving was the “Dijeree Doo” competition whereby so many tried their hand (rather, mouth) to play this indigenous (Aboriginal) artifact. Many called for Darwin native, Capt Marty, to show how it is done. But, alas, he was out of breath!

General Manager of the Centara Grand, Danny McCafferty, entered the fray, regaling the sailors, supporters and, especially the press, with his love and experience of sailing. “I won my ‘wings’”, said Danny, at the opening party, “My total sailing experience was gained on the ferry across from Nakhorn Si Tammarat to Samui.”

The Regatta was superbly managed by the new team of Simon James as race director and Kae Wattana as event director – new, inasmuch as they only had three months to organize the big event. They have followed regattas up and down the Kingdom for years.

Aussie Ross Chisolm controlled the racing and the usual suspects appeared as the jury: Mark Pryke, Tom Sheppard and RAdm. Prasart Sribhadung. Ocean Marina very kindly supplied the official start boat.

While “Hooligan” took the initial Regatta title, it was the maxi (90 ft.) “Genuine Risk” (Geoff Hill) which took line honours, in all 10 races of the “racing class” (IRC Zero), regarded as a record performance.

In the strong winds which prevailed on the last race day, one craft, which must remain anonymous, blew the spinnaker which sent a female crew overboard. “The skipper went back for her”, said one sailor, while another cynical, hard-bitten veteran growled: “Of course; it was not his wife overboard, was it!”

As usual, with such a wide range of craft and wildly-varying ambient conditions, there were many mishaps, some broken gear and a young crew member knocked out. But – also as usual – the staff of Samui’s Thai International Hospital were ever-alert.

The 2012 Samui Regatta was organised by leading regatta services provider, Regattas Asia, with strong support from Samui businesses and staff, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the International Sailing Federation.

Prasert Jitmung, the Koh Samui District Chief Officer, was delighted with the Regatta and wished all to come back for the 12th edition, to be sailed from 24 May to 01 June, 2013.


Pattaya invites citizens to compete in Patanque 2012

Phasakorn Channgam

The Pattaya Education Office is organizing the Patanque Pattaya 2012 event to be held over two consecutive weekends on June 23 and 30. The competition is open to everyone and will be divided into several age and gender related categories. The tournament will take place at the Pattaya School No. 2 in Banglamung.

Entrance fees range from 100–300 baht depending on age and category and cash prizes and trophies will be presented to all the winners.

For further information, contact the Pattaya Tourism Department on 038 253 128-9.


Buddhists walk, run, meditate for Visakha Bucha Day

Runners and walkers get underway on their route around Phratamnak Hill.

Warunya Thongrod

Throngs of Pattaya-area Buddhists walked, ran and meditated to celebrate Visakha Bucha Day on Monday, June 4.

Pattaya Permanent Secretary Pakorm Sukhonthachat and Education Office Director Jintana Maensurin opened the annual holiday walk-run with contestants competing in under- and over-40 categories, as well as a contest for just women. All winners received trophies.

The event culminated in a parade towards the Big Buddha temple on Phratmank Hill to participate in the Wien Thien ceremony at Wat Khao Phra Yai to commemorate the 2,600th anniversary of Lord Buddha’s enlightenment. Organizers said the event is meant as a sign of commitment to the five Buddhist precepts and to avoid all vices during the three-month lent period.

“I am amazed by the response to the event,” Pakorm said. “This clearly shows that residents place a lot of importance on Visakha Bucha Day.”

Yordcherry Sidyordthong, a 14-year-old runner from Nongyai Health Club, said she wanted to participate because she loves sport, and because her parents planned to take her for a Wien Thien ceremony anyway.

Malee Kurapong, 41, of Laem Chabang said she wasn’t in the race to win any awards. “Visakha Bucha Day is just one of those days that Buddhists should not miss,” she said.

Runners from the Suan Tamnak Nam Chonburi Club line up at the start.


 


 
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