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Blacky wins three in a row and inaugural Monthly Mug

PSC golf from The Growling Swan

Peter Blackburn

Monday, June 25, Royal Lakeside – Stableford

A good low season contingent of 14 golfers assembled at The Growling Swan in readiness for the longish road trip to the challenging Royal Lakeside and we welcomed first timers Ebrahim & Bernie McCart. We also welcomed back Frank Donnelly from his 3 week stint as a tourist guide showing family from Australia around. A hearty “Bon Voyage” was afforded to Dick Braimbridge who will shortly be returning to Queensland, Australia for about 3 months and also Dr Brian Vale & Wayne Harman who are off back to Perth, Western Australia in the next couple of days.

Monday Compass winner Brian (Doc) Vale, Deefa the Dog & winner Peter Blackburn.

Everyone was running early so we departed the G.S. in 2 minivans 10 minutes ahead of schedule at 8.20 am and after an excellent run through Pattaya Monday morning traffic we arrived at the course just 55 minutes later. The course was, yes – you guessed it, almost deserted and after a relaxing preparation time and putting practice for some we sent our first group, once more a Gosnells Golf Club four-ball away 18 minutes early at 9.42 am.

The new caddies’ uniforms looked very smart and we teed off into a very stiff breeze which indicated it was going to be a tough day for some and indeed that’s the way in turned out. The golf course was in fantastic shape with the greens as good as I’ve ever seen them and to top it off our caddies were disciplined, informative whilst being lots of fun at the same time.

The breeze did cool things down somewhat although at times it did seem fairly hot and after a sub 2 hour front nine we continued at a cracking pace and finished our round in three hours & fifty minutes.

With the smallish field we had just the one flight with five podium spots and there were rewards for long putts on holes nine & eighteen with sponsorship help from Mike “Hunter” Gosden.

As mentioned previously the going was quite tough with not one golfer able to play to their handicap or better. After a last start win your writer managed to continue his good form and finished in first place with 35 points, one ahead of Bo Cardwell in second place with Jerry Dobbs third one point further back.

A count back was necessary to determine fourth & fifth places with Ken “let’s hear it for” Bernek (14 point back nine, 10 points on last 6 holes & 6 points on last 3 holes) edging out Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei (14 point back nine, 10 points on last 6 holes & 5 points on last 3 holes). Both of them had 31 points.

Ken Cornwall, Jerry Dobbs & Peter Blackburn.

1st Peter Blackburn (12) 35pts

2nd Bo Cardwell (23) 34pts

3rd Jerry Dobbs (22) 33pts

4th Ken Bernek (16) 31pts

5th Alain Taddei (18) 31pts

Long Putts: 9th – Wayne Harman; 18th – Wayne Harman

Dr Brian Vale also had back to back wins but alas, it was the Compass Cap (awarded to the golfer with the worst score on the day) so at least he finished his stay with us on a winning note! Deefa the Dog was of course present and paraded by Hunter resulting in many donations to charity from our generous Growling Swan group.

Back at The Growling Swan afterwards the main topic of conversation was the upcoming inaugural Monthly Mug which was in 3 days time. Even as we sat there drinking we had two more golfers sign up which left us with just one spot to fill. Dick rang the bell due to his imminent departure which was appreciated by all.

Thursday, June 28, Treasure Hill - Monthly Mug/Stroke

There was a terrific buzz in the air on this morning as we assembled at The Growling Swan, all keen to compete for the very first Growling Swan Monthly Mug. Peter Grey’s complimentary tea & coffee was flowing and we had many old and new faces in the record field of 25.

We welcomed first timers Rhys Allen (son of Andrew) from Melbourne, Noel Moore from Philippines/Australia, and Aussies Peter Starr, Tony Olcorn & Vince Romeo along with Dave Norman from the A Team Bar here in Pattaya. It was also great to have back for another 6 weeks Talkeshi Hakozaki from Japan, Hugh O’Donnell from Spain, Don Richardson from Ireland and of course Graham Buckingham after his trip to Bangkok to compete in an International Scrabble Tournament.

Several people elected to drive to the Treasure Hill course and the rest piled into 2 minivans as we departed the G.S. right on our scheduled departure time of 8.30 am. After a 48 minute drive we arrived at the course to find that despite being a Sport’s Day with a 500 baht green fee the course was practically deserted. We were in no hurry as we prepared for this special occasion and our first four-ball consisting of myself, Mashi, Hunter & Buckers teed off 5 minutes ahead of our scheduled 10.00 am tee time.

The weather was terrific although a bit overcast at first but we knew that nothing was going to put a damper on this special day. I must once more mention the improvement in this golf course as it was in terrific condition with the greens absolutely superb and a credit to the green keeper & his staff. It was of course a Monthly Mug which meant playing a stroke round and sure enough this tough layout caught one or two golfers out.

Buckers was going great guns until the 12th hole where he got into all sorts of trouble and ended up with an eleven which effectively put paid to his chances of winning the Mug. Hunter & I were travelling quite well and neck & neck down the home stretch while Mashi, although fairly consistent was not having one of his better days. We proceeded at a very good pace considering it was a stroke round and even with 2 drinks breaks we completed our full round in four hours & ten minutes.

A terrific day’s golf at a lovely though challenging course with very good company. It was very pleasing to hear the comments from all after that the day was an outstanding success and everyone was looking forward to the next Monthly Mug at Mountain Shadow in July.

With the 25 starters we were able to have 2 flights and there were rewards for nearest the pins on the four par threes plus nearest first putts on the ninth & eighteenth greens. As we had nine players who not yet had handicaps they were put in the second flight which we named the Callaway Grade & their scores were calculated using the Callaway Scoring System.

Your humble organizer & correspondent continued his form of the last 2 outings and managed to win the very first Growling Swan Monthly Mug on a count back from Mike (Hunter) Gosden. We both had a net 73 but my net 33 on the back nine got me home as Hunter had net 35.

In third spot came Takeshi Hakozaki with a net 74 and the luckless Graham Buckingham finished fourth with a net 75. In a count back for fifth & sixth Don Richardson (net 77 with net 36 on the back nine) edged out Bo Cardwell (net 77 with net 39 on the back nine).

In the Callaway Grade the winner of the Growling Swan Monthly Glass was Ken Cornwall with a net 73, one better than runner up Bernie McCart. In a count back for third place with both golfers on net 76, Vincent Romeo (51 back nine) took the honors with Fred Dineley (53 back nine) just missing out.

Monthly Mug

1st Peter Blackburn (12) net 73

2nd Mike Gosden (11) net 73

3rd Takeshi Hakozaki (13) net 74

4th Grahsm Buckingham (24) net 75

5th Don Richardson (13) net 77

6th Bo Cardwell (23) net 77

Callaway Comp

1st Ken Cornwall net 73

2nd Bernie McCart net 74

3rd Vincent Romeo net 76

Near Pins: 2nd – Mike Allidi; 6th – Peter Starr; 13th – Ebrahim; 17th – Stu Rifkin

Long Putts: 9th – Ken Cornwall; 18th – Mashi Kaneta

The winner of the Compass Cap (awarded for the worst score of the day) went to Aussie Jerry Dobbs and Hunter paraded Deefa the Dog who of course collected many donations to charity from our very generous Growling Swan crew.

Presentations of course were back at The Growling Swan on this occasion and many thanks go to Peter Grey for sponsoring this event and providing a delicious chicken meal for everyone. Yours truly took advantage of the “I won the mug, you fill it up” rule and along with most of the others stayed for several hours of fun and merriment.

Note: Growling Swan Golf welcomes golfers of any persuasion – low & high handicappers alike, female golfers and beginners. We generally play Mondays & Thursdays, meeting at The Growling Swan (formerly The Bunker Bar) in Soi Chaiyapoon at 8.00 am with transport departing at 8.30 am. For bookings or more information please contact Peter on 0806 351 386 or email to [email protected].


Ashman the top player for June

Bunker Boys @ The Bowling Green

Monday, June 25, Green Valley – Stableford

Only a small field of golfers today for our first visit of the year to the formerly popular Green Valley course. We stopped playing here in the high season when the management’s pricing and scheduling policy became unfair to local societies. Several members were reluctant to return as a matter of principle, but those that did enjoyed the day.

June ‘Golfer of the Month’ Dave Ashman with Ning.

The course was quiet and in good condition, and once again the weather gods were shining on us. Geoff Parker (playing off his lowest ever handicap) produced the best score of the day ahead of PJ Redmond who has recently rediscovered some semblance of his previous form.

1st Geoff Parker (12) 33pts

2nd PJ Redmond (24) 31pts

3rd Eddy Kelly (17) 29pts

Wednesday, June 27, Mountain Shadow – Stableford

A momentous day today as we welcomed back former 3-time Bunker Boys champion, Gerry Cooney for his first game in more than a year, following treatment for a serious shoulder injury.

At long last some renovation work is being undertaken in the changing rooms and restaurant, so hopefully this is also a good omen for the future. The course today was surprisingly dry, and the greens had been recently cored, making conditions difficult for the champion’s return, and he failed to make it to the winner’s enclosure, although his pleasure at being back out on the course was clearly evident after the round.

With the course virtually to ourselves (again!) the leading group pulled out a 3 hole lead over the more senior members in the following group, and finished in double quick time. Dave Ashman produced the best round of the day to further cement his grip on the Golfer of the Month title with only one game remaining.

1st Dave Ashman (14) 33pts

2nd John Graham (10) 31pts

3rd Barry Murnin (15) 30pts

Near Pins: Barry Murnin, PJ Redmond and Paul Edgar (2)

Friday, June 29, Eastern Star – Stableford

A warm greeting from the management awaited us when we arrived at Eastern Star, and the offer of an additional discount got the day off to a good start. This course has improved considerably since our last visit, and the greens were significantly quicker than they were previously.

A strong breeze was blowing throughout the round, keeping the temperature down, but making the course even trickier than usual. We had 12 golfers in the field today including PSC President Tony Oakes, who got off to a flying start, only to fade on the inward nine. This left the field open for Eddie Kelly to record the best round of the day with an impressive 39 points, with Dave Ashman taking second place on a countback over Barry Murnin.

Dave’s second place finish sealed his first Golfer of the Month title, so congratulations all round when we returned to the Bowling Green.

1st Eddie Kelly (17) 39pts

2nd Dave Ashman (14) 31pts

3rd Barry Murnin (15) 31pts

Near Pins: Paul Edgar, Lee Butler and Tony Robbins.

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 Buakhaow. 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 087 146 9978, email [email protected].


Chaten ‘the Rajah’ Patel rules

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, June 24,
St. Andrews - Stableford

1st Chaten Patel (13) 39pts

2nd Colin Davis (16) 37pts

With the majority of the society’s core members away to the UK or the States, or Bintan, or touring the country or like ‘Broad moor’ Bob the ex prison officer trying to find his lost keys, a modest but quality field took on the Desmond Muirhead St. Andrews, and a couple of familiar names, namely Chaten ‘the Rajah’ Patel and Colin ‘the Donkey’ Davis (with his eternal 16 handicap) used their course knowledge to navigate to first and second place respectively.

Two time winner Chaten Patel, left, with Noy.

The ‘Rajah’ also knocked in the only 2 of the day.

Monday, June 25, Bangpakong - Stableford

1st Rod Brown (22) 37pts

2nd Darryl Evans (18) 37pts

A relatively modest group attributable to the season and back to back playing days turned out to play the formidable Bangpakong Riverside. The scores on the day reflected the difficulty of the course for most; this did not however deter Rod Brown and Darryl Evans who both bettered their handicaps by a single stroke. A count back dictated that they finished in that order.

No 2’s were carded so the rollover continues.

Wednesday, June 27, Bangpra - Stableford

1st Eddy Beilby (16) 34pts

2nd Don Lehmer (20) 32pts

3rd Ian Ashendon (0) 32pts

A good sized field for any season turned out to try their luck on the fast and slick greens on the par 72 Bangpra layout. The scores on the day reflected the difficulty that faced the competitors as anything above the hole on the green was to say the least nerve racking.

Eddy ‘the Eagle’, never one to shy away from a challenge, led the field home through the marauding monkeys with a top score of the day 34 points. Eddy was followed up the podium steps By Don “I’m getting married in the morning” Lehmer and professional golfer Ian ‘keep your head down’ Ashendon who is always a welcome addition to the society ranks. Although Don and Ian standing on the podium looked about the same height, handicap dictated that it was Don who managed the silver.

Ian and fellow scratch player Mark Haffendon split the rollover 2’s pot. I guess the greens speak for themselves!

Friday, June 29, Khao Kheow A & C - Stableford

A Flight

1st Chaten Patel (13) 35pts

2nd Connie Walsh (9) 35pts

B Flight

1st Barbara Cooper (26) 36pts

2nd Nick Odnoral (18) 34pts

There was no man of the match today because the best player was a lady, Barbara Cooper. Barbara’s 36 points took the B Flight honours as Nick Odnoral picked up the silver on 34 points.

Chaten the ‘Rajah’ Patel finished the week as he started standing atop the A Flight podium as he cemented his name in the bold print, but he did need the aid of a count back decision to edge Irishman Connie Walsh as both were tied on 35 points.

Mark ‘woody’ Sherwood (a brace) and Paul Hack shared the 2’s pot.

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.


Low captures second monthly medal

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

From left: Friday podium placers Dennis Pelly, Suzi Lawton, Murray Hart, and John Low.

Monday, June 25, Burapha A & B - Stableford

A good field for Burapha with 32 players playing the A & B nines from the blues; with nobody else booked to play until the afternoon, we had the course to ourselves and hit off 30 minutes early with all rounds completed in under four hours. The day was sunny and hot but a lovely breeze kept up for most of the round which helped to keep everybody cool.

The course was well presented and the greens were great to putt on; with very little rain lately it’s amazing to see how dry and hard parts of Burapha are getting already and some of the tees, even though well grassed, were hard to get the tee into. The fairways and greens were well watered but the rough is drying out quiet quickly.

Just a couple of mentions; welcome to Rogan Hampson, another of the Kiwis as Geoff Christie returns to work and goodbye to Tony McDonough who was having his last game with us today.

Three divisions with three places in each division plus the ‘2’s and good scores were returned by the winners and runner-ups in all divisions but the scores quickly drooped away after that.

Paul Greenaway returned to the winners list in Division 1 (0-12) with a great score of 39 points off 9 and Dion Lane (12) had a good round of 38 points after some shocking scores this trip.

Rosco Langoulant (13) won Division 2 (13-17) also with 39 points and wiped the last two holes on the way home so what could of it been and Tony McDonough (14) filled the runner-up position with 36 points and has played some very consistent golf this trip.

John Player (21) found a bit of form at last returning a good score of 38 points in Division 3 (18+) and it’s great to see Bob Lindborg (21) return to the winner’s list with 36 points as the runner-up.

There were four ‘2’s; to Rosco Langoulant and John Player on A3 and Kev Reid & Robert Barnes on B3.

Div A (0-12)

1st Paul Greenaway (9) 39pts

2nd Dion Lane (12) 38pts

3rd Dennis Pelly (11) 31pts

Div B (13-17)

1st Rosco Langoulant (13) 39pts

2nd Tony McDonough (14) 36pts

3rd Robert Barnes (13) 33pts

Div C (18+)

1st John Player (21) 38pts

2nd Bob Lindborg (21) 36pts

3rd Jean Morel (18) 33pts

Tuesday, June 26, Laem Chabang C & B – Stableford

Disappointing number for Laem Chabang this week but the ten who went had a great day. Laem Chabang was not as heavily booked as is usual and we got off a little early as two three-balls and a four-ball. Unfortunately we caught up with a two-ball behind two five-balls in the first two holes but Bobby Driggs decided that the two Japanese gentlemen needed company so they all joined up to make another five-ball.

Bobby then made sure they enjoyed some Outback hospitality and proceeded to get them very merry along with his own group of Robert Barnes and Lamun Hanley. They looked a sorry site by the end of the round but set a good pace of play so we all finished in under four and a half hours which is good for a Laem Chabang sports day.

Sugar Ray played with the Kiwis again to try and get their money before flying out back to Aus but had a shocker; Sugar is off to Queensland for a couple of weeks as he believes the Maroons need his support in the State of Origin - so look out the Blues.

The course (C & B) was great, especially the greens; they have got better week after week and everything was presented well. We had only one division with three places in the division plus the ‘2’s. The winner for the day was Steve Mann, showing a return to form with the putter with 39 points off a 9 handicap, from Robert Barnes (13) with 38 and in third was John Low (12) with 36 points .

There were three ‘2’s; two to Capt’ Steve Mann on C8 and B8 and one to Bobby Driggs on B8.

1st Steve Mann (9) 39pts

2nd Robert Barnes (13) 38pts

3rd John Low (12) 36pts

Tuesday, June 26, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford

PCC had just seven players from the Outback today and not many more from elsewhere apart from a two-ball in front of us which took forever to play each hole; thus subjecting us to a longer than usual round but nevertheless, well under four hours.

The course itself, well the front nine, which everybody must know by now is played twice (white the blue tees); was is in reasonable condition although like everywhere is in desperate need of some rain, and the greens were fine, if not a little furry.

The scores from one division were lacklustre with the best being 33pts coming from Geoff Moodie, who cruised to a comfortable win from Chad with 30. The General was out today for the first time since Siem Reap but continues to struggle with his game.

After a tour of the work being done on the back nine, it is disappointing to report that no-one was working and no machines were seen moving. It is of course entirely possible that they were all on an extended lunch break but with virtually every hole looking like a beach, there seems little likelihood of them opening the back nine this year, let alone for the start of the high season.

There were no ‘2’s.

1st Geoff Moodie (27) 33pts

2nd Barry Chadbourn (19) 30pts

3rd Jack Moseley (20) 29pts

Wednesday, June 27, Siam Plantation – Stableford

A full complement of 20 players were due to tee-off this morning at 8.36 but one was unable to make it at the last minute. The course today was A & B and as ever no fault could be found with the management with everything as excellent as ever.

Andre Coetzee was the last person to enter the tournament late on Tuesday and he was the first to the post, winning by two with an excellent 38pts, playing off a h’cap of 7. Off the same h’cap was Ron Dickie, who grabbed second, with Brian Maddox third on 35. As there was only one division, the podium places went down to fifth as Costa Rica boys, Steve & Jim took fourth and fifth respectively, both with 34.

There were two ‘2’s from Paul Bourke and Steve Poznanski.

1st Andre Coetzee (7) 38pts

2nd Ron Dickie (7) 36pts

3rd Brian Maddox (22) 35pts

4th Steve Poznanski (15) 34pts

5th Jim Bryan (16) 34pts

Wednesday, June 27, Bangpra – Stableford

Just a four-ball at Bangpra, which is a shame given that it’s such a wonderful course but very much a sign that we are currently in the low season but maybe the popularity of Siam Plantation is also depleting the numbers a little.

It was Suzi’s first game since returning from the UK and she did enough to take all the sixes money as well win the small comp.

There were no ‘2’s.

Next Wednesday we’re back at Pattana with three groups at 10am.

1st Suzi Lawton (17) 31pts

2nd Murray Hart (14) 31pts

3rd Martin Kingswood (13) 25pts

Friday, June 29, Green Valley – Stableford

33 players at Green Valley again as it proves to be a very popular venue and why not as the course itself is in good condition even though the greens are still not fully recovered from their recent renovations.

The last Friday of the month so the Monthly Medal, with all players having to finish every hole (no 4 over limit on a hole) and even though some players racked up some big scores, the pace of play for the first six groups was around three and a half hours but the last few groups unfortunately were a fairway or so behind. Great day for golf with a nice breeze and a little overcast.

The starter was great in getting some of the groups off early and all players had teed off before 10.30; even though we had a two ball in amongst us that weren’t part of the Outback as they were late for their tee-time.

The best of the day score was a net 70 from John Low (12) and Jack Butler (10) with John getting the medal by virtue of his better net back nine and Jack having to settle for the Div 1 win. Div 2 went to Muzza (Murray Hart) with a net 71 off 15 and Div 3 was won by Suzi Lawton with net 72 off 17. To round up the rest of the podium finishers, Dennis (no longer the smelly) Pelly was second (72) and Capt’ Steve, third (73) in Div 1 with a surprised Joe Mooneyham getting third in Div 2 with 78, six shots back from second placed Barnsey. Andy Makara (74) was second in Div 3 as Adam Oyston filled the remaining place with a 76.

One or two rounds were ruined by some expensive mistakes, the highest being an 11 on hole 7 and there were four 10’s on holes 2, 4, 7 & 8. The toughest two holes were the 1st and 13th (both ave 5.69) and the easiest was the 12th (ave 3.44).

Here are one or two more facts about the round:

Best Aggregate Scores: Front Nine 37 (+1) Jack Butler; Back Nine 38 (+2) Steve Mann, Dennis Pelly; Par 5’s 20 (Level) John Low, Joe Mooneyham; Par 4’s 44 (+4) David Dunstan; Par 3’s 12 (Level) Dennis Pelly; Most Holes Under Par 3 Paul Greenaway, Dennis Pelly.

Back at the bar there was the usual after-golf examinations but the approval of more stroke-play seemed to be fairly unanimous and the Outback committee will look into adding another medal round around the middle of a month at Green Valley or at another of the more popular venues.

Finally, players should be aware that from next week we will be teeing off at the earlier time of 9.30 and it will be Mark McDonald’s Birthday Bash, which is a 4BBB format.

Overall

1st John Low (12) net 70

Division 1 (0-15)

1st Jack Butler (10) net 70

2nd Dennis Pelly (11) net 72

3rd Steve Mann (9) net 73

Division 2 (12-16)

1st Murray Hart (15) net 71

2nd Robert Barnes (13) net 72

3rd Joe Mooneyham (13) net 78

Division 3 (17+)

1st Suzi Lawton (17) net 72

2nd Andy Makara (27) net 74

3rd Adam Oyston (17) net 76


Off the stick with 66 - not good enough

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Ian Ashenden and Mark Haffenden congratulate Serge Stratten, centre.

Steve Ellison

Monday, June 25, Green Valley (White tees) – Stableford

1st Serge Straeten (18) 43pts

2nd Ian Ashenden (0) 42pts

3rd Mark Haffenden (0) 42pts

Wow, it has been a long time since we posted 127 points on the podium total, but it just shows that we have the best golfers in town that play with us.

Ian Ashenden is a visiting English pro now teaching in K.L. Malaysia and buddy Mark Haffenden drives a black cab in ‘Sowf’ London, and they both play off scratch. That’s right, no shots, a zero handicap, and both shot 6 under par to tie for second! Any Asian Tour player would love to strut to the scoring desk with that card under his belt. Well played lads, ya done us proud, even though a certain Frenchman pipped you by just one shot.

Serge Straeten took the day by just a stroke over the Ashenden-Haffenden duo who were ever so gracious in defeat, albeit with a cloud of disbelief over their heads. Serge was the last person to sign up on our full sheet of 24 golfers, so it was a stroke of luck as it turned out. Such is the funny old game of golf, cruel mistress that she can be.

Nelly and pals after their round at Khao Kheow.

Tuesday, June 26, Khao Kheow (White tees) – Stableford

1st Nelly Stoer (16) 36pts

2nd Ian Ashenden (0) 34pts

3rd Norman Cheetham (15) 33pts

It was a tough day out today as we had a lady playing with us, so all had to be on their best behavior and hold the fluids in until the actual toilet at the drinks stop. The lads were back at one of the best courses around Pattaya, the lovely Pete Dye designed track of Khao Kheow.

Visitors Nelly Stoer and hubby Simon Spaulding popped over from Oz to pay us a visit and get a few select rounds in for their holiday in our little paradise. Nelly played very well today, stayed in the fairway and had no 3-putts to claim victory over a full field of Golf Clubbers.

British PGA pro Ian Ashenden once again eluded the top spot with another second place finish before heading back to Kuala Lumpur, good to see you again mate! Norm Cheetham took third spot with his 33 points, a good score at this beautiful but tricky golf course.

Thursday’s top three, left-right, Sonny Goldsbury, Chaten Patel and Diego Wells.

Thursday, June 26, Greenwood – Monthly Medal

1st Chaten Patel (12) net 67

2nd Sonny Goldsbury (14) net 69

3rd Diego Wells (10) net 69

Time once again for our ever so popular Monthly Medal and the battle for the shirt! Greenwood was the track for the June competition, which is a fair track for a medal play event. The course was back in great shape, but the greens a bit on the slow side. Hit those putts a bit harder, as I always suggest.

Chaten has been playing some solid rounds lately, so he was always going to be a threat for the medal. He made few mistakes on his way to his net 67 and that was good enough for a great win. This is the second MM shirt for Chaten, his first one being back in October 2010 so two stars go on this shirt for the win.

Sonny and Diego both shot 69’s to round out the podium and our thanks go to Diego for herding cats for today’s event. See you for next month’s medal at Rayong Green Valley on the 30th of July.

Reminder: We have our monthly Road Trip to Kabinburi on the 17th & 18th so email us or drop by to sign up soon!

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.golfclubpattaya.com and for more information mail us: [email protected] and see updates at www.facebook .com/golfclubpattaya.


Another bumper Seil at Emerald

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

The Pattaya Golf Society took itself off to Emerald on Monday, June 25 to play a stableford competition on the course which was almost devoid of golfers, only ten occupying the whole course when the PGS teed off! The course was in good condition with greens running at a comfortable pace. Thus, on a day made for good golf.

Paul Taylor managed 35 points for third place and Mr. Len recorded a rare sub-par round with a fine 37 points for second. The winner was Seil Revels, again playing some clinical golf, especially on the back nine where he recorded gross 33, and his forty points will assure him of a further cut in handicap at the weekend when he returns “stateside”.

The Booby Bevy went to Rod Black for losing eight balls, mostly fresh out of the box, despite the valid claims of Joe Niisato who drove his cart into a bunker, but the Society does not condone or encourage bad driving.

The winner of the Free Beer Draw was Dave Edwards and this went some way to replace the sparkle that had disappeared only a few hours earlier with a failed penalty shootout somewhere in Eastern Europe! Thus the day ended with everyone enjoying the golf at Emerald, yet again.

Ramsay returns in form

On Wednesday, 27th June the Pattaya Golf Society visited Eastern Star to play a stableford competition on the course which is improving all the time; Fairways are good and the greens are building up to a nice speed.

A smaller field than expected saw Dave Edwards continue his good form with 32 points giving him third on this, his first visit to the course. In second place was local member Mikael Andersson with 33 points and the winner was Ronnie Ramsay, making another return after a spell of hard graft.

There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to Peter Masters for a round which saw his first nine form holding up well but the development of a snap hook saw his scores plummet on the back nine giving him a 14-6 split.

Rabbi’s free beer draw was won by Mr Len and it provided the best end to the day’s golf at Eastern Star

Edwards in the driving seat

June ended for the Pattaya Golf Society with a visit to Crystal Bay on Friday, 29th and the group was delighted to find the course still in very good condition. The format was strokeplay, it being the group’s monthly medal event and the resort style course will always reward golfers who are on top of their game.

So it was then that Ken Grimes, Alan Duckett and “Mr Simon” all posted scores of net 69 to share the runners-up berth. The winner was Dave Edwards, currently in very good form, and his net 67 could have been better if he had not subjected himself to a penalty for his ball striking his golf bag.

There were three birdie ‘2’s and those sharing the pot were Alan Duckett, Seil Revels and “Mr Simon”.

The Booby Bevy went to Masashi Iizumi on his return to Pattaya with his low score reflecting his total lack of golf since his last visit. But he and the rest of the PGS will be up for the new month as more exciting golf days lie ahead.


Coetzee calls the shots

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, June 26, Greenwood – Stableford

Only small numbers today but a pleasure to play one of our premium courses - we virtually had it to ourselves and only saw 1 other group in the distance so no hold ups.

All scores were much the same so we cancelled the competition as it seemed fairer that way. All in all a good course good company and a great day out!

Thursday, June 28, The Emerald – Stableford

Another good day out, a bit slow on the first tee so we started on the back 9 then it was a clear round all the way.

Winning today was the impressive playing Andre Coetzee (7) with 38 points followed by Clive Hoseason (23) trying to keep up with 37 points. No NTPs today but another good day out with good company.

Note: Mulligans Lakeside play Tuesday and Thursday and new faces always welcome. Call 089 094 1841 for more details.


Andy Oz wins on count back at Emerald

The Backyard Golf Society

Andy Oz celebrates his win with the staff at the Blue Sky Bar.

It was another good turnout for the Backyard Golf Society’s weekly game at Emerald Golf Course. 9 players this week and with everyone in all competitions it was good to welcome back Tony C. (from his abbreviated trip to China) and Neville from his European vacation.

Arriving on the tee it was good to see our friendly starter had retained his sense of humour after the verbals he got last week as he made a point of explaining that we only had a two-ball in front of us!

No injuries to report this week so with everyone completing the round in under 4hrs it was into the clubhouse for prize giving. The stableford competition turned out to be extremely close with Andy Oz just edging out Terry C. on a 21 to 18 count back score in his winning total of 38pts.

No nearest the pin prize this week, due to a lack of communication about the flag, so with this being rolled over it was onto the skins. To say Andy Oz dominated would be an understatement as he walked off with 14 out of 18 skins with the other 4 going to Terry C. (3) and Kit (1).

After prize giving it was off to B.C. to help relieve Oz of some of his winnings and to have a final drink with Kit as we wished him all the best on his trip back home.


Wong sails home at Riverside

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Monday, June 25, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Khao Kheow was the venue on Monday with an on time departure arriving 43 minutes later. The courses today were A and B, also known as the stadium 18. We had a delay teeing off on hole A1 of 8 minutes because of late groups. The course on the day was in a very playable condition contrary to recent reports that it was a mess.

Back in the clubhouse after a fast round of 4 hours we welcomed back one of the oldest world travelers and golfer, Hugh O’Donnell, back from USA and Spain.

Mike Winfield was the winner with an ugly 36 points, Mashi Kaneta came second on 35, and Hugh O’Donnell placed third 31 points.

1st Mike Winfield (23) 36pts

2nd Mashi Kaneta (11) 35pts

3rd Hugh O’Donnell (25) 31pts

Thursday, June 28, Bangpakong – Stableford

The nice Bangpakong Riverside course was the venue today for a stableford competition. We had an on-time departure and up the 7 arriving 70 minutes later for a quick check-in. We teed off on time with sunny skies and a strong wind. The course on the day was still having heavy maintenance with slow greens but very playable.

Back in the clubhouse after a round of 3 hours and 50 minutes it was Henry Wong winning with a fine 38 points, Kristin Helgason second on 37 and the man from Las Vegas, Jim Carrick’s first time in the money with 35 points in third.

1st Henry Wong (24) 38pts

2nd Kristin Helgason (18) 37pts

3rd Jim Carrick (36) 35pts


It’s the Bartley boy again

Phoenix Tuesday/Friday Golf Group

Tuesday’s top 2, standing rear, pose with the staff at The Relax Bar.

Mike Gerrard

There is not much to report about regarding Friday and Sunday golf except to say that few of us are still enjoying playing on these days, albeit just a couple of groups at the most.

However Tuesday’s are very healthy and we set off on June 26 with our monthly stroke play competition for the Trattoria Italiana voucher, donated by our good friend Giorgio Baccioli.

John Bartley came up trumps again, this time with a fine net 70 to claim the winner’s spot. In second place was his fellow countryman Patrick Browne who netted a total 74 shots and in third place was the most consistent, erratic golfer at the moment, Stuart Gordon, who carded a net 75 (God knows how?). It seems his golf is like the construction of his new house, all over the place. It just goes to show how important it is to chip and putt well.

No near pins this week, but the lucky draw prizes (donated by our hosts, The Relax Bar) went to Mike Gerrard (free massage), Sergio Volpi (free drink) and Sergio Poggi (free drink).

Anyone interested in joining our little group or who may wish to go sea fishing, can call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565 for more information. Basic rules required for the group are an official handicap of no more than 28 and No Ladies are permitted to play. To this end we will be changing the name of the group soon to make it clear of the latter requirement.


Duff Soby Team win the Camel Summer Charity Classic, 2012

Great support sees a record amount raised for the St. Camillus Foundation

Saturday, 16 June – Emerald Golf Course, Banchang

For the annual Camel Summer Charity Classic the weather was fine for golf. 198 golfers played in support of this most worthy of causes, for the St. Camillus Foundation which run the Camillian Social Center – a relief center for HIV/AIDs affected people, just out of Banchang, in Rayong.

This summer’s tournament raised a record total of 800,170 baht, for the Camillians. The Camel Annual Charity Classic tournaments, since inception, have now raised over 7 million baht for the St Camillus Foundation.

Golfers from Banchang, Pattaya and Bangkok teed off from 06:30am through 1.15pm. A special thanks to all the registration folks (Vanessa, Bob, Bill, Jintana, Tong & the Camel ladies). Also, the organizers recognize the great support received and extend their warm gratitude to the management, staff and caddies from Emerald for turning the course and facilities out so very well.

The format was Texas Scramble and the tournament had strategically placed bracing Bloody Mary’s, magnificent Margarita’s and sizzling sausages around the course to keep golfers strength up and their concentration focused.

After the game and some welcome refreshments at the clubhouse, golfers and their families made their way, by 5:30pm, to The Camel Pub, Banchang’s largest and finest pub/ restaurant. There, The Camel had prepared a pig on the spit and a sumptuous buffet.

Prize giving and presentations to the successful golfers started at 7pm. Excellent hosting was done by MC, John Sing with able support from Rod & Vanessa. Many kind donations were made by some very generous folks and the organizers extend their thanks.

The tournament champions for the Camel Summer Classic, 2012 were the Duff Soby team of Duff Soby, Regis Vincent, Val Kienast & Niel Hay, with a net score of 53. The runners up were the CR Asia/ WVT Invitational team of Glenn Ebert, Lindsey Warlock, Steve H and Mike Moir with a net score of 54.3. Congratulations to 2012 Summer champions and runners up.

For the ten technical prizes this year, the winners were: Long Putt on hole 3; Dave McCardy, Near Pin on hole 5; Chris Walsh, Near Pin on hole 7; Lindsey Warlock, Near Pin in two on hole 8; Dennis Stetsen, Ladies Long Drive on hole 9; Kh Thanapol, Near pin in two on hole 12; Val Kienast, Near Pin on hole 13; Willy Low, Long Putt on Hole 14; Val Kienast, Near Pin on hole 15, Mark S and Mens Long Drive on Hole 18; James Joseph Ryan. Congratulations to the technical prize winners.

The Tournament wishes to sincerely thank all contributors for the generous support and for making the tournament the outstanding success that it was. Specifically, Terry wishes to thank the major corporate sponsors; Taylors Real Estate, CR Asia, Deborah Services Ltd, GE Oil & Gas and Thunder Cranes and of course, The Camel Pub, and all of the other generous sponsors, Boots & Coots, CEA, Clough, Crathco, CR Asia/ WVT, Dacon, Dextra, ESC, Expro-PTI, Heineken, Indochine Developments, Infinity, Jesters MC, John Crane Co, Mammoet, NCE, Nevada Bar, Orapi/ Indochine, Plexal, Pattaya Sports Club, Q Cars, San Miguel, Sense of Siam (SOS), Siam Foods, Sinto, Souer, TAS and Western Wholesale Meats Co. Sincere thanks to all our sponsors.

Additionally, the organisers wish to express their gratitude to the following local establishments for a bottle of spirits each for prizes: The Bar, Sport Bar, Beaver Bar, Rainbow Bar, Blue Sky Bar, Faces Bar, Rumours Bar and The Wherehouse Bar, Noi Shop and The Camel Village Shop.

Finally, generous support was received from local friends, Barry Soanes, Ray Barrett, Billy Cattermole, Rod Carmichael, Chuck Callen, Steven Coulson, Gene Grigson, Jon Hightower, Mike Olsen, Tom Rafferty, Jim Ryan, Scott Torgusson, Scott & Shawn McKiernan.

Many thanks from the organizers to all who supported and played in this fine tournament. We hope to see you all and your friends back for the Camel Summer Classic, in 2013.

In particular Terry would personally like the thank Rod, Vanessa and Bob for their upstanding commitment as the organizing committee.

More information about the St. Camillus Foundation of Thailand and the Camillian Social Center can be found at: www.camillian-rayong.org/en/contact.asp.


Tight finish in ‘golfer of the month’ contest

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Barry Elphick, left, receives the MBMG golfer of the month prize from Derek Brook.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, June 26, Green Valley – Stableford

Green Valley was to be the test for the day and with this being the last Tuesday of the month it was also time to find out who would be the ‘MBMG Golfer of the Month”. So after a quick bite at Bert’s it was into cars and off to Green Valley.

Once there the book-in was reasonably quick and then out to the start. This course is a good test and stood on the first tee we knew it was also going to be a difficult day as the wind was blowing hard. The course on the day was in fine condition with the fairways green and inviting and the rough dry and difficult to get out of. The greens were in reasonable condition and ran tricky but true.

With the way ahead seemingly clear the first two groups, being three-balls, zoomed away and soon we came up behind a group in front, but even so we got around in well under 4 hours. The groups soon ran in behind.

First, second, and fifth from Friday’s round with two of Bert’s finest.

Sitting in the ‘German Restaurant’ the cards soon came in and it was obvious that despite the heavy wind we had some good scores in and Barry Elphick, who was leading the ‘MBMG Golfer of the Month’, was worried despite putting in a fine round of 38 points, but we shall see.

Back at Bert’s we were soon ready to give the results and in the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Mike Gaussa with 38 points ahead of Bob Watson in second with 36 points and in third was Mashi Kaneta with 33 points on count back over Walter Baechli.

In the B Flight the scores were generally better with the winner being Tom Cotton with 41 points ahead of Graham Buckingham in second with 39 and in third was Barry Elphick with 38 points.

So for The MBMG Golfer of the Month, did Barry hang on? Well the answer was yes, and so Barry Elphick was The MBMG Golfer of the Month, well done Barry!

Near Pins: Mike Gaussa, Mashi Kaneta, Bob Watson, Warberger

Long Putt: Max Scott, Daryl Evans

Friday, June 29, The Emerald - Stableford

Funny day really, all the way down there it threatened rain with a few spots on the windscreen, but it always seemed to be there but never rained. However, stood on the first tee the wind was up and it promised to be a tough day, even if it did not rain.

Mashi and I were paired with the two Aussie ‘good golfers’, Max and Bob, and they did us the good turn of playing off the Blues while we played off the White. Very interesting indeed, as we usually found ourselves level off the tee, a bit sobering and reminds one that ‘the three score and ten’ is nearly here.

We moved around quite well and in the strong wind it was interesting to find the rough was really tough. As for the fairways, I asked the other three and they said that there were a lot of divots and the ground was dry and hard. Lucky me, I usually joined them on the greens which generally were not too bad.

Despite being an outside restaurant, this is one of the more friendly places to sit, and indeed the food here is not only good but really well priced. It may be open but the breeze keeps it quite cool, even if sometimes the breeze is so strong it blows the paperwork around..

Back at Bert’s it was soon into the results and we had one flight with a runaway winner. The winner was Alan Sullivan with 39 points, and also 3 Near pins to note. In second was Brian Parish with 35 points with Walter Baechli in third with 34 points on count back over Daryl Evans in fourth. In fifth was Bob Watson with 32 points. T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: Alan Sullivan (3), Mashi Kaneta


Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Ooy, Kran, Tukata, Tue and Antero.

Tue Pettae bowled a great 624 series with games of 213, 192 and 219 to lead Brother D to a four point win over Mitt in 2012. Joe Ferral bowled an even 500 series for Mitt.

Second place Green Tree won three points from third place VFW Post 9876. All three bowlers for Green Tree bowled well with Noodle Russell bowling a 541 series, Rich Murphy had a 522 and Tukata Thompson bowled a 221 game and 512 series. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 201 game and 540 series for VFW.

Caf้ Kronborg moved up from seventh to sixth place after winning three points from Bavaria. Kran Nielsen led Kronborg with a 213 game and 538 series.

Antero Ronkainen bowled a 584 series with games of 203, 182 and 199 to lead Canada to a three point win over Indiana. Canada moved up from sixth to fifth place.


Wilkinson finds form at Phoenix

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Roger Wilkinson - winner at Phoenix.

Andy Rich

Monday 25th June saw TRGG start off the week at Bangpra, although the turnout was low the competition was as fierce but friendly as ever. That man David Booth started of this week where he left off last week, standing on the winner’s podium, as playing off fourteen he shot 34 pts which was too good for Captain Fergus Brennan (12) who finished runner up with 31 pts. Fergus is now known as Captain Long John Silver because he has only one good eye. Seriously though Fergus, I hope both eyes are back to normal as soon as possible after your operation.

Tuesday 26th June saw another small field take on Treasure Hills another of the really challenging courses. Robert Cannon, another regular winner with TRGG topped the leader board, playing off nineteen he returned 34 pts with Seil Revels (4) coming second with 32 pts.

Thursday 28th June saw an increased field pay our weekly visit to Phoenix where we took on the Lake and Ocean courses. Roger Wilkinson, who I reported only last week was recovering from a nasty hand injury sustained in a motorcycle accident, returned a fantastic 41 pts playing off a fourteen handicap. Perhaps he has had to adjust his grip with his injured hand but whatever has happened I bet it has cheered him up.

That wily old Irishman Seamus Farrell (29) was second with 37 pts and Poopay Lamthong who always does well at Phoenix was third on 34 pts.

Talking of strange golf grips, I would like to welcome back Neil Bramley to Pattaya. Neil is a very good and consistent seven handicapper but he plays with the reverse grip (left hand below right). Now I have seen many people putt this way but Neil plays every shot this way even his drives. Harry Vardon would be turning in his grave if he saw Neil on the tee but I tell you it works for him, he hits it a long way and normally straight.

Saturday 30th June we made our usual visit to Crystal Bay to play A and B courses. Seil Revels, who is currently playing off four, returned with 39 pts and will be troubling the Handicap Committee again. Ted Senior (12) was second with 35 pts beating David Booth on count back.

Good luck to all you golfing enthusiasts for the coming week!


Norman and Terry take the Medals

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, June 25, Bangpra - Stableford

CSS 72

1st Nobuyuki Nakagomi (29) 35pts

2nd Norman Cheetham (15) 35pts

3rd Yukio Kikuchi (19) 35pts

4th Yasuo Suzuki (12) 34pts

A very different Bangpra than the usual, with the greens unusually slow, due no doubt to the recent rainy weather that had kept the greens-keepers off the course and leaving the grass on the greens rather longer than normal. But the rest of the course was in excellent condition and it would be fair to say that the greens in any event were as good if not better than most courses in the area at the present time.

Nobuyuki Nakagomi.

The conditions made sure than the CSS for the day remained at 72 as many of the players played within the necessary two shots of their handicaps.

Nobuyuki Nakagomi won the day with the best count back after three had tied on one over handicap, but it was Nobuyuki’s first win in Thailand after many visits when he had returned home to Japan a happy but not totally fulfilled man. On this occasion he outplayed the competition over the inward half, recording a better 19 points as Norman Cheetham took second place with 18 and Yukio Kikuchi third with 17.

It was also the first time that Nobuyuki had returned a better score than Yukio in all the many times of trying and was therefore an even more pleasing result overall.

Tour leader, Yasuo Suzuki, slipped into fourth place just one shot back.

The big blow out of the day was by Jens Gunnarsson, who after scoring 18 points from the first six holes with five pars and a birdie, then slumped with just 12 points on the next twelve holes even though they included another couple of three point pars and a couple of two pointers. A real curates egg indeed.

There were no 2’s in the second division but Norman Cheetham and Jens Gunnarsson shared the first division pool.

Wednesday, June 27, Phoenix - Monthly Medals

Division 1 (Blue tees)

CSS 74

1st Norman Cheetham (15) net 74

2nd Al Keith (5) net 74

3rd Dick Heaney (15) net 79

4th Tomas Nilsson (10) net 79

Division 2 (White tees)

CSS 72

1st Terry Hodgkiss (25) net 64

2nd Kaneo Watanabe (20) net 70

3rd Brian Vale (21) net 72

4th Benny Hansen (25) net 73

Once again the monthly medals were contested from two different tees, with the first division playing from the blue tees and the second division from the whites and even though the two have the same par of 72, the blue tees attract a higher standard scratch of 74. This was once again confirmed as the Standard Scratch Score for the day after all the cards were returned with the best of these equaling the SS being turned in by Norman Cheetham who took the medal for the first division with a better count back of 36.5, as Al Keith, having ended the front nine slightly ahead, lost out after taking 37.5 coming home and so had to settle for second place.

Terry Hodgkiss.

Dick Heaney was placed third after also winning a count back with a 36.5 as Tomas Nilsson also faded slightly on the inward nine with a 37.5 to finish in fourth place.

The second division saw a fantastic round from Terry Hodgkiss, who had been missing out a few times recently as he had let the rounds slide over the closing holes, but not this time as he followed a very nice three under handicap outward nine with a stunning five under for the back nine, which left him out in front by six clear shots and the winner of the second division medal.

Kaneo Watanabe may have been having thoughts of collecting his first ever medal but a very good two under handicap proved to be well short on this particular day, but he ended well pleased with his best round of his trip this time in Pattaya which secured him second place.

Brian Vale also played very steadily to finish with a level par round that was sufficient to take third leaving Benny Hansen well back in fourth.

The big crash of the day belonged to Grant Cadell who having gone out in one under handicap, and looked very good for a high placing at the end, started back well but then dropped an astonishing eleven shots to the course over the last four holes to finish well down the field in the second division.

With the results finally established, it left another two first time winners in this year’s qualifying competitions to go forward for the Gold and Silver Medals to be held in December.

There were no 2’s in either division.

Before making the presentations Stephen Beard welcomed back Brian Vale and Wayne Harman and had farewells for Philip Cass, Norman Cheetham, Dick Heaney, Tomas Nilsson and the two new arrivals Brian and Wayne after a very short stay.

Friday, June 29, Khao Kheow - Stableford

White tees

CSS 71

1st Yasuo Suzuki (12) net 36pts

2nd Yukio Kikuchi (19) net 35pts

3rd Peter Buckley (19) net 34pts

4th Kaneo Watanabe (20) 34pts

5th Shuichi Kodaka (16) 31pts

With so many players having left to return home it was a much smaller group than usual for the trip to the always testing Khao Kheow course where the competition was played over the A and C courses, but due to a slight administrative mix up the day’s play was from the white tees instead of the longer yellows.

Yasuo Suzuki.

This did not help the scoring too much although it no doubt played a big part in the winner’s mental approach, as Yasuo Suzuki at last climbed to the top of the podium with a solid level handicap round which left him the narrowest of margins to claim his first win for some time after many fruitless attempts.

Yukio Kikuchi put in his second one over round for the week which was enough for him to take second spot ahead of a two way tie one shot behind.

Peter Buckley won the ensuing count back for third place with a better 13 to 11 on the back nine after tying with fourth placed Kaneo Watanabe for the nine at 18, which left Shuichi Kodaka in fifth place another three points further back.

Terry Hodgkiss had a bad reaction following his outstanding round a couple of days earlier as he started the round with just six points from six holes but managed to turn things around over the back nine with a level par back nine which bodes well for the future.

After a few dry runs both 2’s pots were cleaned out with Seppo Sadeharju and Shuichi Kodaka sharing the second division and Yasuo Suzuki taking the first division.

Prior to the presentations there was a welcome back for Peter Buckley and farewells to the “Yakayuno Tour” in the form of Kaneo Watanabe, Yukio Kikuchi and Nobuyuki Nakagomi while their guide stays on a little longer for a few days R and R in solitude, well almost.

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.


Plummer heads the field at Green Valley

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, June 25, Pattana – Stableford

It was the England and Italian match Sunday night in the Euro Cup starting at 1.45am and there were five cancellations in the afternoon and three no show’s this morning. 16 players or less we revert to one division but still have the ‘2’s rated at 1-16 and 17 plus.

Before his trip to Singapore for a visa run and other arrangements, Steve Armstrong, playing off 8, won today with 37 points. Three points behind was Chris Voller in second place and Lars Nedrild beat Colin James and ‘Countback’ Burnie on a 17/16/16 back nine for third after they all came in with 31 points.

We were allocated the A and B nines today and, as always here, we selected the yellow tees. It was our first round on A for some considerable time and it made an enjoyable change for us all. There were no ‘2’s so all to play for at Green Valley on Wednesday.

Wednesday, June 27, Green Valley - Stableford

It was back to reality again today with two divisions running and we arrived at the clubhouse and had never ever seen it this quiet before, considering there are three courses here now.

The cut as always similar with 7-17 and after his 38 points at Eastern Star on Friday and being cut two shots, Ian Plummer returned a score of 39 today to win division 2. Colin James was second five points behind and ‘Countback’ Burnie took third on 26.

Chris Voller was in the headlines again as he topped Division 1 with 36 points. Bryan Rought came in second with 35 and in third place after his three week romantic European trip with Ya Ya visiting Amsterdam, Antwerp and Paris, was Neville Scurrell with 34 points.

Many thanks go to Neville for bringing back some fantastic pepper cheeses and smoked ham from Europe, which the lads tested out in the bar on Wednesday evening.

Still no ‘2’s in either division so five rollovers to Emerald on Monday.

Friday, June 29, Eastern Star - Stableford

Another quiet turnout today but with over 20 players we had two divisions and nearest the pins of course. Yet again another three hour round for the first group out and the next five came in bang on time.

Almost the rainy season here and there was a strong breeze coming off the coast for the majority of the holes.

Improving each week in every game after his medical problems over the past few months, Joe Kubon bounced back by winning division 2 with 36 points. Andy Baber was second on 30 and Rod Howett beat Colin James 11/10 for third on the back six after they both scored 17 on the back nine and 29 points overall.

Mikael Andersson won division 1 with 34 points, beating Bill Bertram on a 18/17 count back, and Chris Voller took third with 33 points.

In the ‘2’s today, Andy Baber hit his tee shot on the 6th to six feet from the pin and birdied this and on the 17th his ball was three feet from the flag but he missed the putt, but he was still happy. In division 1 there are two rollovers to Friday 13th.

Near pins went to Bill Bertram, Ted Gardner, Wilf Latham and Andy Baber (2).


Thompson returns to claim monthly honors

PSC Blue Moose Golf

Monday, June 25, Pattaya Country Club – Stableford

The Blue Moose Group took off to a beautiful day at the Pattaya Country Club this 25th of June. While the sun was out there was a cool breeze throughout the 18 holes. Thanks to the cool breeze Bobby Clark’s fire hot game was kept somewhat cool.

Bill Thompson and Richard Hall.

Back at Caddy Shack II the cards showed Bobby with a cool 38 points followed by Bruce Funk with 33 points. After a bit of refreshment the players trooped off to the Blue Moose.

Thursday, June 28, Burapha – Stableford

The group teed off at 8:15 to perfect golf weather on this day. This being the final outing of the month, up for grabs was the Monthly Trophy, a tradition dating back for the past 10 years. Joe St. Laurent was hoping for a trifecta, as he had won the previous two – however, he would be sadly disappointed.

The course was in good condition except for number 5 that still had “lose your ball” tall grass. Caddies, such as they are, were of little or no help in finding the balls or even having an idea of where they may have travelled to. That didn’t stop Bill Thompson, arriving back from the rig at midnight and getting home at 02:00, getting up at 06:00 and meeting the tee time and then carding a 36.

Following Bill were Richard Hall and Dale Murphy with 34 stableford points each, with Rich taking second place honors on the count back. Dale’s significant other, Noi, hit a nice shot onto the 12th green to knock Bill off of the Near Pin honor.

As per custom, Herbie and the girls provided a variety of complimentary snacks for the golfers at the Blue Moose.

Bobby Clark with Bruce Funk.


Pattaya Softball goes old school, playing at revamped field

MVP of the day Jonathan hits a long ball with Andy at catcher and Phil pitching.

Sunday, July 1st was not just Canada day, it was also the day the softballers united at a temporary field and played a 3 team tournament. The Thai Polo Club field is temporarily closed, so the softballers moved to a field near the Pattaya indoor stadium and played a 3 team round robin tournament.

Teams were evenly matched with Stockton’s A Team, narrowly defeating Gil’s Sunrise Taco team 9-6 in preliminary game action. The Sunrise Taco team went on to beat Diego’s Golf Club team 10–7 in round 2. Third and final game saw the A Team win again by a 9-7 margin over the Golf Club. That set up a final between Sunrise Tacos and the A Team.

The final game was a blowout, with Gil’s Sunrise Taco team getting revenge on the A Team and winning by a score of 16-5. MVP of the day was Jonathan who hit 2 homeruns and was spectacular in the outfield. He was assisted by speedy Beck who also hit one dinger and was solid on the base paths.

We had a turnout of more than 30 players this weekend and would like to thank John Stockton and Dave Dolle for all their hard work informing everyone of the changes. If you are interested in joining us, we play every Sunday from noon to 4pm. Just send an email to: scrabbleking @yahoo.com or igolfwells @gmail.com or check out Pattaya Sports Club on the web. You can come alone, or bring the whole family out to the ball park. It’s a guaranteed hit, so why not give Sunday Softball a try? See you next Sunday at the new and improved softball field of dreams!


Slow down – you move too fast

Doug Brecht - a USGA official - became golf’s newest hero recently. The LPGA rules man punished American Morgan Pressel for slow play in the semi-final of a women’s Matchplay while she was playing with the eventual champion, Azahara Munoz of Spain.

In recent weeks Colin Montgomery, Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, Tiger Woods, have all come out in public and said something needs to be done about the problem. The game is getting slower every year. Five hours for a round is the norm, which is ridiculous.

Speeding up play is very easy, be ready to play when it’s your turn: 4 hours is approx 13 mins a hole, a minute longer is 4h 18m, 2 minutes 4h 36m, not exact, but it’s easy to see how a minute here and there can add up. We also have electric carts, which should be speeding up play, and is not.

Many times, playing due to my poor distance, I am first to play, I then have to wait until my partner talks to his caddie, decides which club to use, swings a few times, or decides the group in front are a bit close. Seeing him play the chances are it’s more likely to snow than his ball getting near them.

Whenever I mention we’re slow, the most popular answer is “We’re not in a race”, or I say, “We’re falling behind” and the answer comes back, ‘It’s OK, were all in the same group”.

Slow play is avoided by keeping up with group in front. Have good game!

Signed

Matt (Jomtien)


Senior citizen denies Flying Farangs third crown in 5 years

Tournament champions Ukkometsot are seen in action in their semi-final win over the Hong Kong Tigers.

Bangkok’s own ice hockey team, the Flying Farangs, were trying to win their third City of Angels crown in five years; all that was stopping them was a 62-year-old goalie - and he did. The keeper for the all-Finnish team, Ukkometsot, Mika Rantanen, which had flown in from Helsinki, stoned the Farangs in the final match as the visiting Finns won the first tournament to be played at the new arena, The Rink, located on the 7th floor of the Central Grand Rama IX shopping mall.

The favourites going into the 35-and-over tourney were the Hong Kong Tigers who had a slew of relatively young forwards (aged 35-39), who skated rings around the opposition in the early matches, making mincemeat of their rivals. But like the Farangs, the Tigers fell victim to the wily Finnish keeper in the semi-final, exiting the tourney without the Cup they so eagerly coveted.

The Farangs meanwhile beat the Kuala Lumpur Cobras in their semi-final game to set up the final match against Ukkometsot.

Flying Farang goalie Jason Cotsmire had a brilliant tourney except for a brief 5-minute span at the start of the final game when Ukkometsot scored three quick goals on him. It was erringly similar to the 5-minute breakdown the New Jersey Devils suffered in period one of game 6 of the Stanley Cup final when Steve Bernier took a five minute major boarding penalty and the LA Kings scored three power-play goals.

The Farangs did call a time out after the Finns’ three quick goals, but like the Devils were never able to gain the momentum, losing the final by the same score the Devils did, 6-1.

The 15-team tourney was divided into three four-team divisions and one three-team division, with each team playing the other teams in its division before being re-seeded according to their records.

Bangkok entered two other teams in the tourney and the second-seeded Bangkok team reached the semi-final of the consolation championship (eventually won by Beijing), while the third Bangkok team, composed - ironically - mostly of Finns, saw an early exit from the tourney as they were unable to muster much scoring power.

The highest-profile player in the tourney was Jay North, who had flown in from Texas to play for the Singapore Hawkers (Singapore like Bangkok, entered three teams in the tourney). North, a Minnesota high-school stand-out, was selected 63rd overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1980 entry draft, ahead of future NHL stars like Jari Kurri, Bernie Nicholls, Steve Larmer, Steve Kasper, Hakan Loob & Andy Moog. His NHL career never did pan out, but people still talk about the way he dazzled the crowd in his high school days.

All the matches on the final day were televised live on Thai TV and the rink was a beehive of journalistic activity with cameramen, photographers and writers everywhere. Tournament organizer Scott Whitcomb and his team at Jogsports did an outstanding job of running the event. And the Rink, which was still trying to air out its kinks was able to withstand the heavy schedule of morning to late-night matches despite Bangkok’s heavy humidity.

For more information about ice hockey in Thailand, go to website: www.jogsports.com.


 
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