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Prodigy Taiwanese and Korean players take honors in the Amata Cup
ITF Junior Cup at Siam Bayshore Resort
Top seed Chan Yung-jan from Taiwan and Kim Sun-yong of South Korea
claimed the girls’ and boys’ singles titles at the Amata Cup ITF Junior
Group I, which wound up at the Siam Bayshore Hotel last Sunday.
Chan, who is ranked at No 7 in the world, defeated Tara
Iyer from India 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 in just under 2 hours in the girls’ final,
whereas Kim easily defeated fellow countryman Jun Woong-sun, 6-2, 6-1 in
less than an hour.
Duncan
Miller (center), Resident Manager of Siam Bayshore Resort congratulates the
winners and runner-ups of the Thailand International Junior Tennis
Championships held at the Siam Bayshore Resort in South Pattaya from March
22-28.
In the final set, Iyer was up a break at 2-1 but the determined Chan
fought back with solid strokes and forced errors from her opponent ranked at
world number 67. She managed two breaks to lead 5-3 and then wrapped up the
match after Iyer missed a backhand crosscourt. A sweet victory for Chan
after she was beaten by Tara Iyer in Manila last year.
Chadbourn, Ovegren & Dyke winners in Diana March Open
Mike Franklin
The March Diana Seniors & Ladies Open at Pattaya
Country Club produced a wide spread of winners in the Divisions and
Technical holes, making the most of the fine weather and fast running
fairways. The best feature of the course was undoubtedly the condition of
the greens, always providing a challenge and the key to success.
 (L
to R) Seniors division winner Ake Ovegren, Ladies division winner Trudy
Chadbourn and Super Seniors winner Danny Dyke made the most of fine weather,
fast running fairways and impeccable greens at Pattaya Country Club in the
Diana March Open. Full story on page 46.
The Ladies Division was won by Trudy Chadbourn, winding
down on a visit from Spain and hopefully returning for a long stay in
November. Her score of 40 Stableford points just nudged Mam Trayling with 39
points into runner-up spot.
Ake Ovegren, shortly to return with wife Pid to Sweden,
claimed the Seniors prize with 39 points and Chris John’s 36 points with
19 points on the back nine was good enough for runner-up. George Meigh, also
with 36 points, just losing out with only 16 points on the back nine.
The Super Seniors winner was Danny Dyke in a three-way
count-back on 38 points. He scored 20 points on the back nine; Terry Phur
scored 18 points to be runner-up with Arthur Bailey missing out with 17
points.
Near pins were claimed by Roland Soderberg, Frank Baker,
Keith Hector and Ake Ovegren. Arthur Bailey and Hans Jacobssen sank the
longest first putts on nine and eighteen.
Prize-giving was, as usual, in the clubhouse with a
special welcome to newcomers David Mawford, Sara K., Joy Choi, Pid & Ake
Ovegren, The Chadbourns Barry & Trudy, and finally the Lawtons John
& Suzi.
Thursday April 29 is the next Diana Seniors & Ladies
Open at Pattaya Country Club.
Sign-up sheets are up in the Green Bottle pub and at the Diana Driving
Range, North Pattaya.
PSC fishing from
Bobby Joe’s 60s Bar
Wednesday March 24
The morning was fine, bright and a little breezy as
the fishermen gathered at Bang Saray to board The Dolphin with Captain
Pong and venture out in the hope of catching something to fill the
freezers.
A fine run out with, the water only a little choppy,
saw the lines in the water and the tingle of expectation start to grow.
Soon the lines were singing as Rays hit the lines and both Danny Dykes
and Mike Gerrard had a nice Ray on board and ready for the pan.
 Danny,
Mike and Lee show off supper.
A move down the ‘road’ and the lines back in the
water saw the line zoom out and Lee got on the end only to find the line
on his left zoom out, the Barracuda were about.
Unfortunately as Lee got his to the boat the line went
slack and we found the wire trace bit through, whilst the other line went
slack and a big Barracuda jumped through the air. What an exciting 15
minutes as we also lost a third one, sometimes they take the bait and
miss the double hook. It all sets the heart jumping!
Another move and a Pompano took the bait, fine fish.
And so to the ride back as the sun set and off to our left the dolphins
could be seen sporting in the water, a fine sight and not often seen.
Fine day out and fish in the freezer. Tight lines T.T.F.N.
Sunday Quiz League
Pattaya 9 Ball Pool League
Pattaya Pool League
Wednesday Quiz League
A tie at the top
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Captain Bill rolled games of 197, 224 and 184, 605
series, to lead VFW Post 9876 to a three-point victory over Cafe้
Ole. House of the Golden Coin moved into a tie for first after taking all
four points from Cafe้ Kronborg.
 Bill
bowled a 224 game and 605 series.
Brother D, led by Bill’s 516 series, remains tied for first after
taking three points from Alt Koelle. Paul (P.K.) rolled a 527 series to
lead Three Sisters to a three-point win over Nam Tip. Mai, Jack &
Tar, rolled a 529 series to help her team win two points from Shakey
Pete’s.
Standings Week 2 (Mar. 26):
Team Standings Points
Brother D. 7 - 1 3 - 1
House of the Golden Coin 7 - 1 4 - 0
Jack & Tar 6- 2 2 - 2
VFW Post 9876 6 - 2 3 - 1
Alt Koelle 4 - 4 2 - 2
Three Sisters 4 - 4 3 - 1
Shakey Pete’s 3 - 5 2 - 2
Nam Tip 2 - 6 1 - 3
Cafe้ Ole 1 - 7 1 - 3
Cafe้ Kronborg 0 - 8 0 - 4
Peacock Place Indoor Bowling and Snooker League
The new season is under way with some interesting additions:
in the singles where Nut and Tukta will add some spice to the other girls and in
the Snooker which has gone international and attracted a former English Pool
Champion, a good Belgian and a very good left handed Thai.
The ladies have shot away with their games and after just a
couple of weeks Peacock Sue is unbeaten in 5 games - we will have to offer a
substantial reward for the first lady to take the title away from her.
In the mixed double Yellowbirds have gone top but did suffer
their first loss to Spotty Dog and it looks like those two teams may fight this
one out.
In the snooker George has a flying start with 6 from 6 but
the useful Ad and the former pool man Terry are chasing him already and Bill has
yet to start his campaign!
Ladies
Peacock Sue 5 5 0 0 56 18 10
Nut 7 4 1 2 54 48 9
Lek 4 2 0 2 42 17 4
Nid 3 1 1 1 19 24 3
Tukta 5 1 0 4 18 49 2
Danny Sue 4 0 0 4 15 48 0
Mixed Doubles
Yellowbirds 5 4 0 1 56 31 8
Peacock 4 1 0 3 36 37 2
Gin 1 1 0 0 13 5 2
Spotty Dog 5 2 0 3 38 42 4
Double Trouble 3 1 0 2 20 30 2
Love Nest 2 1 0 1 6 24 2
Snooker
George 6 6 0 0 383 220 12
Ad 8 5 0 3 471 331 10
Terry 5 4 0 1 312 255 8
Danny 5 3 0 2 308 258 6
Ian 7 3 0 4 341 404 6
Derek 8 3 0 5 388 456 6
Patrick 7 3 0 4 311 418 6
Danny Sue 4 1 0 3 172 225 2
Peter 1 0 0 1 43 85 0
Brian 5 0 0 5 241 318 0
Bill 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Brackett sent home after net 64
IPGC Golf from Lewiinski’s
Many of the participants in Sunday’s and Monday’s
Lewiinski’s Golf Society daily competition, chose to enter a third event
covering both days, that being a 2-day eclectic. For the uninitiated an
eclectic takes the best score on each hole the golfer had over the
prescribed length of the competition, in this case two days, and computes a
score from that.
A little twist was added to this competition by playing
the second day off the “red” tees at Green Valley, a perspective of the
course only a few players had enjoyed previously ... on their second shot.
Sunday March 21
Green Valley - White Tees
Stroke/Medal
1st Place A Flight: Jim Brackett, net 64
2nd Place A Flight: Steve Mascari, net 70
3rd Place A Flight: Klaus Schackt, net 71
4th Place A Flight: Phil Mitchell, net 71
1st Place B Flight: Mark Bonner, net 66
2nd Place B Flight: Jez Lees, net 67
3rd Place B Flight: Nui Meesuk, net 68
4th Place B Flight: Vic Hester, net 68
Near Pins: #13 Jim Brackett; #16 Klaus Schackt
Jim Brackett shot a brilliant even par 72, net 64 on the
day. Because it is a well-known fact that Jim’s game only warms up just
as he is about to return home to Arizona, he was promptly asked to leave
the Kingdom and did so upon conclusion of the presentation ceremonies that
saw him garner first place in A Flight. Although second was a distant six
strokes, it was established that there would be no need to continue the
“road to recovery” genre of articles about Steve Mascari. He shot gross
76, net 70, edging Klaus Schackt and Phil Mitchell by a single stroke.
Klaus with the aide of his extensive computer records was able to edge Phil
on countback for the bronze.
Mark Bonner, the holder of the current Lewiinksi’s
Monthly Medal, continues to defy The Handicapper as his second consecutive
Sunday gross 83, this time good for a net 66, netted top spot in B Flight.
Mark was unfazed by losing two handicap strokes this week, so he will
sharpen the pencil again next week. Jez Lees, shut out of the money last
week with a net 69, decided to do better, and he did, at net 67, and was
rewarded with second. Nui Meesuk prevailed on countback over Vic Hester due
to a better backside. Of course, we all knew that.
Monday March 22
Green Valley - Red Tees
Stroke/Medal
1st Place A Flight: Gary Emmett, net 64
2nd Place A Flight: Ray Carter, net 65
3rd Place A Flight: Rick Sharp, net 65
1st Place B Flight: Oddvar Rykke, net 61
2nd Place B Flight: Robbie Bennett, net 64
3rd Place B Flight: Ken Kutzing, net 64
1st Place Ladies Flight: Nui Meesuk, net 78
With many of Sunday’s top finishers unable to compete
in the eclectic due to departure or other commitments, the field was wide
open for the eclectic. As you might have noted from the introduction
paragraph, the golfers of the second category would be playing off the red
tees this day. And if you think length doesn’t make a difference... the
worst any of the golfers of the “2nd/c” who placed on the day did was
net seven under par, and that was co-achieved by Ray Carter and Rick Sharp,
the former taking the penultimate spot in A Flight on count back.
Similarly B Flight’s second and third spots were
locked in count back, with Robbie Bennett edging Ken Kutzing. Back 9’s
were used, in both instances, rather than back sides, since the judging
panel was equally divided on the latter. The two flight leaders on the day,
Gary Emmett with his gross 73, net 60 and Odvarr Rykke with his gross 82,
net 61, would interestingly end up in the same Flight for the eclectic.
Nui Meesuk, the paramour of Johnny McHugh, took the
women’s daily competition and signaled that the math in the eclectic
might favor her.
Sunday & Monday March 21-22
Green Valley - White/Red Tees
Eclectic: Stroke/Medal
1st Place A Flight: Ray Carter, net 62
2nd Place A Flight: Brian Holden, net 63
1st Place B Flight: Odvarr Rykke, net 57
2nd Place B Flight: Gary Emmett, net 57
1st Place Ladies Flight: Noi Meesuk, net 58
The first round leaders at the conclusion of the Sunday
competition were Klaus Schackt at 71 in A Flight and Bob Lindborg at 72 in
B Flight. Whether it was balky play, inability of play in skorts (those
frustrating skirt and shorts combos), or too much testosterone to pass the
“red tee sex test” will never be known, suffice it to say that neither
of our male leaders were to appear on the eclectic podium.
Our two Monday winners both ended up with net 57, but
Oddvar’s more generous 19 handicap proved handy in providing the top
prize. It should be noted that Robbie Bennett went unheralded, and worse,
unpaid, despite his eclectic 59.
Ray Carter made his Monday second place useful as he
rode to first in A Flight. Brian Holden, curiously not a placeholder in
either daily comp, showed the value of consistent play and timely scoring
by climbing to the second step in A Flight.
Nui Meesuk, not surprisingly, took first in the Ladies
Division after coming third in B on Sunday and first in the Ladies on
Monday.
Wednesday March 24
Khao Kheow - C & B - Yellow Tees
Stableford
1st Place A Flight: Steve Mascari, 39 points
2nd Place A Flight: Phil Groves, 36 points
1st Place B Flight: Natsuda Heitmann, 38 points
2nd Place B Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 37 points
Near Pin: #B8 Ken Kutzing
There was a big game at the head of Wednesday’s field
with locals Steve Mascari and Bob Patterson going against local Phil
Mitchell and Florida pro Jay McNair. Although the outcome was not
officially released it was noted that Steve and Bob picked up the lunch
tab, a courtesy usually extended by the winners. Steve Mascari threw a
gross 75, 39 points effort for the top rung and was joined on the A Flight
victory ladder by Phil Groves. Ralf’s Heitmann’s better half, Natsuda,
took B Flight with the hopefully mending Joe Mooneyham but a stroke back.
Friday March 26
Century Chonburi - White Tees
Stableford
1st Place: Paddy Wilson, 36 points
2nd Place: Risto Manerus, 34 points
3rd Place: Colin Davis, 34 points
The size of the field often takes a bit of a hit when
the society tries on any one of the excellent triumvirate of courses at the
reaches of the 331. Today was no exception, but those that did not go
missed a course that was in good nick with plenty of irrigation to ward off
the current hot spell and light area traffic, which had them back in
Pattaya by 4:00 p.m. despite a 10:50 tee off. In fact, the most demanding
traffic of the trip was within proximity of Pattaya. The single flight
field was dominated by higher handicaps as Paddy Wilson, playing off a 16,
was the only person to match par with 36 points. Risto Manerus, “the guy
with Tarja”, edged The Donkey at the latter’s own game, count back.
The Bogeyman returns
IPGC TAGGS golf from The Haven
Monday March 22
Noble Place
Stableford
1st: Brian Kelly, 42
2nd: Kevin Taylor, 40
3rd: Fred Ewins, 39
4th: Igor Saktor, 38
5th: John King, 37
The long drive up the 331 was made worthwhile by the
condition of the course, which was excellent, perhaps due to the amount of
play that it had been subjected to in the high season.
Brian Kelly came back to form with a bang to lead the
field home by two shots from Kevin J. Taylor. The latter always seems to
play well during his twice-yearly trips to Pattaya, when he invariably
achieves a reduction in handicap to take back to his home club, a very rare
occurrence among the hundreds of golfers that visit every year and play with
the IPGC.
Fred Ewins is another player who is constantly in the
prize-winners lists. No doubt spurred on by the friendly rivalry with Dave
Lee who could not manage a podium position this week, and his efforts again
took him into third place ahead of Igor Saktor and John King in fourth and
fifth respectively.
Brian Kelly stroked in the only two of the day to sweep
the pool and make it a very profitable day all round.
Before presenting the prizes Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA Professional, welcomed new members Eric and Mavis Smith
together with John King and also welcomed back father and son Igor and Peter
Saktor.
Wednesday March 24
Srirracha
Stableford
1st: Norman Isherwood, 40
2nd: Jens Gunnarsson, 37
3rd: Philip Cass, 35 cb9 22
4th: John Desmond, 35 cb9 19
5th: Fred Chadwick, 35 cb9 17, cb6 10, cb3 7
6th: Bob Heath, 35 cb9 17, cb6 10. cb3 5
The greens at Sriracha are still being worked on, which
made it difficult to get the ball into the hole.
Some said it was because he was playing with a heavier
ball that allowed it to break through the covering of thatch over the holes
that enabled Norman Isherwood to win by three clear shots, but following a
stewards enquiry back at The Haven, his balls were weighed and found to be
in perfect order and he was then pronounced the days winner. Jens Gunnarsson
at last succeeded in keeping his ball in play for most of the day and was
rewarded with second place ahead of a gaggle of people two shots further
back.
Philip Cass, who is normally regarded as the TAGGS
drinking champion when Derek Reaper and Patrick Asklund are away, led them
on countback with a startling twenty two points on the back nine as the
alcohol kicked in. John Desmond and Fred Chadwick would have normally taken
the last two spots, but Bob Heath was rewarded with a prize for sixth place
no doubt due more to his relationship to “The Doc” than with his golfing
prowess.
With the greens in such poor condition, it was no
surprise that no one could manage a two and the pot was carried forward.
Friday March 26
Siam Country Club
Monthly Medal
1st Division
1st: Mike Dabanovich, 68
2nd: Tony Barritt, 69
3rd: Dave Lacey, 70
4th: Steve McGrath, 72 cb9 36.5, cb6 24.7
5th: John Desmond, 72 cb9 36.5, cb6 27
2nd Division
1st: Bob Lindborg, 70
2nd: Gavin Bradley, 71
3rd: Jimmy Little, 72 cb9 35
4th: Jens Gunnarsson, 72 cb9 36
Maybe it was the lure of a huge twos pool or the Monthly
Medal or even possibly the prospect of playing the greens of Siam after the
Wednesday competition, but whatever the reason an exceptionally large crowd,
for the time of year, assembled to contest the two divisions.
In the first division Mike “Dabber” Dabanovich, who
has taken time off work to come to Pattaya to massage his wife’s stomach
during her pregnancy, still manages to get at least six rounds of golf in a
week. At last all the practice and maybe also in celebration of his fortieth
birthday it is beginning to pay dividends, as he swept to a convincing win
by a shot, even with a ball out of bounds on the eighteenth, over The Havens
other home loving man, Tony Barritt who finally lost out by three putting
the last two holes.
Dave Lacey took third place another shot back with Steve
McGrath and John Desmond two more behind.
Bob Lindborg finished off a very successful week of golf
to claim top honours in the second division one ahead of Gavin Bradley in
second place. Jimmee Little just pipped “The Iceman” by virtue of a shot
on the back nine to take third.
The inflated twos pool was shared between Mark Gorda, Bob
Lindborg, Trevor Schirmer, Tony Barritt, Martin Hayes and Doug Campbell.
Prior to the prize presentations, Richard welcomed new
member Darcy Hall and welcomed back Moe Deverdenne and Travis Mitchell.
PSC Golf from Bobby Joe’s 60s Bar
Friday
March 26
Century Bang Chang
Stableford
Bobby went on holiday, we are not
saying where, but at breakfast he said, “I’ll see you
down there and walk around”. For the fact that the bar
was closed for election allowed him some free time.
 Max
with technical prize winners.
The course was pretty quiet and in good
condition so the players enjoyed the round, but it was a
bit hot and on finishing a sit and a cold drink before a
nice hot shower went down pretty well. Bobby of course
realised it was so hot and obviously found himself a cool
dark corner where he could cool off and relax. It is nice
when you run a bar to be able to get away for a change and
visit a bar. Ah happy days.
 Max
with winner Martin Bullen and runner-up Tim Holt.
The course being in fine condition the
scores came in quite good for this tough 18 holes, and for
a while Tim Holt looked like the winner before Martin
Bullen came in and pepped him for the win.
This Friday, April 2, we will be at
Phoenix and after back to Bobby’s for a special visit
and food, curry and all that by Big Joe’s English Food
Co Ltd. Come and have a good night.
Winner: Martin Bullen; Second: Tim Holt
Long Putts: Max Matthews, Martin Bullen
Near Pins: Walter Smith, Tim Holt, Bob Noble, Tony
Harris
The
boys relax after a good round of golf.
The Bunker Boys are OK
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
After a hectic few days during which the Bunker
Boys transferred their base to the larger and more accommodating OK
Corral bar on Soi Skaew Beach, it was with some relief on Tuesday March
23, that the usual large party of golfers travelled up route 331 to the
testing Treasure Hill golf club for their weekly medal event.
What? Relief at Treasure Hill? The course was in
respectable condition and the day was hot and humid as the two divisions
set out to tackle the difficult course.
Division two golfers found the course in defiant mood
and, as usual, no-one broke par. Gerhard Schulze fired net 83 to take
third place, two behind Bill Hewitt on 81. The winner was Takeshi
Hakozaki whose 78 was quite respectable in the conditions.
In division one Keith Smithson’s gross 77 was the
best score of the day but it only gave him third place, playing of
scratch. Dave Smith continued his fine current form taking second place
with net 76. Mike Allidi’s gross 79 gave him net 74 to win the
division.
Visitor Phil Burton’s birdie two on the short sixth
hole secured for him the Super Sawng award whilst the Banana Booby
managed the transfer unbruised to be awarded to Steve Nowell for his
abominable eighteen shots on hole seven. One shot more and he would have
equalled the Bunker Boys’ worse ever one hole score!
The presentation at the new venue was an outstanding
success and Mr. Loy breathed a huge sigh of relief after the seamless
transition. The Bunker Boys are still OK.
Siam success for Nowell
and Griffin
The Bunker Boys went sick visiting on Thursday March
25, and found the patient, Siam Country Club, in a poor condition. The
health of the “Old Lady” of Eastern Seaboard golf is showing cause
for concern and the bulletin posted in the foyer warned of poor greens
under repair. Curiously no discounts were offered and the course was
therefore relatively empty.
Putting on pitted and heavily sanded greens is not
what golfers enjoy and the two divisions manfully toiled under a hot sun
all day to present worthwhile scores.
In division one Mike Allidi capped a fine week by
recording 34 points to take third place whilst David Smith went one
better to post his second successive second place in the top flight.
Steve Nowell got over the trauma of his eighteen shots on one hole on the
previous outing to post a fine 38 points and take the day in division
one.
In division two Pat Murphy’s daily practice resulted
in some excellent golf and his 38 points took third place, one behind Jon
Wood on 39. Playing partner Neil Griffin, of whom much has been written
here recently, struck gold again with a sparkling 40 points and his skill
on the par threes showed his love of putting on a beach!
Dave Wilkinson struck gold by recording the only
birdie two of the day and the Super Sawng award was duly presented to him
at a packed presentation at the OK Corral later in the evening. He also
scooped the final prize of the evening as his low score of 24 points also
merited the Banana Booby prize, edging out the claims of smiling Des
Pearson and Chris Walsh. It remains to be seen whether the course at Siam
Country Club wears a similar smile when the Bunker Boys call again in the
future. As usual the Bunker Boys’ packed website, http://www.thebunker
boys.com contains full information regarding the golf group and is well
worth a visit.
3 Sisters Golf
Monday March 22 was a beautiful day for golf. The day was mostly
overcast but cleared during the last few holes to heat up the players.
The competition was fierce as a third of the field shot better than their
handicap.
Leading the field this week by a slim margin was old
timer Carl Baumann. Carl who has been here in Thailand for a donkey’s
age and almost as old as God plays off a respectable 21 handicap. Some
say that he is 73 and others say he is 75 years old. Whatever it is, Carl
came in with 41 points to take the bragging rights for the day. With his
smooth swing working for him and putting well, Carl swept past the rest
of the field by a stroke.
Following close behind were two unlikely golfers. Bill
Key who has held the bag and normally stays near the cellar position came
in with 40 points. He has finally found that you don’t have to kill the
ball every time you take a swing. With his game coming around, Bill
should be on the top shortly.
Shooting the same score as Bill was Fast Eddie
Kristianson. Eddie’s game has been coming along for the last few months
and his handicap has been dropping accordingly. A few months ago we would
have been looking for Eddie near the bottom but he has now turned his
game around.
Just behind the leaders were Alan Pearce and Danny
Dyke with 39 points, Danny Greer with 38, and Don Ratcliffe and Erle
Kershaw with 37 points each. As can be seen from the scores posted, it
was a tough day to win. With a little luck any of these players could
have taken the title for the day.
Holding up the field for the day were the two
geriatrics. Two of our best supporters, Rollie Weese and Jim Tully,
fought it out to the bitter end to see who would be holding the bag for
the week. It was nip and tuck to the end. Both golfers ended up with a
respectable 26 points. It finally came down to the last six holes to
determine who would be in the cellar position for the week. As it turned
out, Rollie scored 9 points to Jim’s 8 points on the last six holes -
it was then determined that Jim had made it to the cellar for another
week.
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday
March 22
Noble Place
Stroke
The neat and tidy Noble Place Country
Club was host for a stroke play competition on the B &
C layouts in two flights, A flight 0 to 19 and B flight 20
and above. The greens are some of the best around and the
green fees, drinks and food some of the best value.
 Wayne
Koch, winner A flight on Tuesday
Wayne Koch took the A flight with a net
70, Jeff Wylie was second with a net 71 and Juha Savanlamp
third with a net 73. Aussie Barry Kerr took the B flight
on a countback from Dave Richardson, both net 74, and
Hirosi Segawa was third with a net 75.
Thursday
March 25
Siam
Stroke - Monthly Mug
This is the big one of the month from
the Cafe Kronborg and it was sad that on this occasion
Siam had decided to turn the greens into soggy sand
patches full of holes. I suppose it has to be done and in
a few days the greens will be back to their best but it is
frustrating.
 Barry
Kerr, winner B flight on Tuesday
So in the circumstances we were just
hoping to finish, but it didn’t turn out that way as
some fine scores were posted, particularly on the front
nine.
As the front nine finished Derek Brook
had had a super front nine of gross 37 and, sat at half
way, was deciding where to put the mug, surely he
couldn’t lose. Up ahead however the first group was also
shooting the lights out and Paul Kraft was having the
round of the year closely pursued by Herbie, who is on the
wagon.
 Derek
Brook, winner A flight on Thursday
Herbie is pretty good though and at the
rest stop after the 16th stopped and allowed the two ball
behind to go through while Paul had a cold one. This was
the change around as Paul blew up on the last two whilst
Herbie stormed home. Meanwhile Derek was in self-destruct
mode and LMF definitely came into play as the back nine
was as bad as the front was good.
Back in the clubhouse as the scores
came in it was obvious that with the poor condition of the
course the win was in the hands of the three of them, and
with one ‘self-destruct’ and one ‘Fancy a beer’ a
‘beer free’ and wily Herbie came in to beat Paul on
countback.
 Paul
Kraft, winner B flight on Thursday
In the circumstances not a bad day, but
Herbie being Herbie, all around him helped him to
celebrate, even a wiser Paul.
Winner of the Mug: Herbie Ishinaga, net
68
Winner A Flight: Derek Brook, net 70;
Second: Craig Dwyer, net 71; Third: Takeshi Hakozaki, net
72
Winner B Flight: Paul Kraft, net 68;
Second: Henk De Bock, Net; 71 c/b; Third: Barry Kerr, net
71
Near Pins: #4 & #8 Derek Brook; #12 Kevin Dinan;
#16 Kevin Callaghan
Bjarne
presents the Mug to Herbie.
The Bunker takes on Pattaya Country Club
This week saw the end of an era when, after 6 years of
organising golf from The Bunker, Mr. Loy departed to take up a new
position at the OK Corral.
The Bunker wishes to thank Mr. Loy for his work over
the last 6 years and to wish him every success in his new position.
On Thursday March 25, the Bunker went to Pattaya
Country Club for a Stableford competition.
The contest was keenly fought and the winner for the
first time was Paul Martin with 39 Stableford points.
Tied for second place with 37 points were Paul Rose and
Mick Ramshaw.
The Bunker Bonanza Bonus was not won although Paul Rose
missed a simple 3 foot putt which would have claimed the prize.
Dougy Landsborough was awarded The Bunker Bananas for
the lowest score of the day (he must have had his return flight to London
on Sunday on his mind. See you when you get back Dougy!)
In future you can find out about golf at The Bunker by
calling 038 429 292 or Mr Joe on 06 0807 564.
Shenanigans Funhill Cup is up for grabs on Friday April 23
By Mike Franklin
Pat Ryan and Chris Humphries are flying in from Ireland
to defend their 2003 Shenanigans Funhill Cup title, this year at Eastern
Star Country Club & Resort on Friday April 23.
It will be a shotgun start again at 11.30 am and, to
ensure an enjoyable round, the field will be limited to around 120 players.
The Pairs Scramble format guarantees a relaxed and fun
day of golf, especially with a Bloody Mary to start you off. Then further
encouragement with a Heineken on the course, and the famous Shenanigans
Carvery back at Shenanigans, prior to the prize presentation and lucky draw.
The entry fee of 1,500 baht also includes Green &
Caddy fee, the Funhill Cup 2004 shirt, trophies prizes, lucky draw and an
extended Happy Hour to 8.30 pm. The maximum individual handicap allowance,
as before, will be 28 men and 36 ladies. The Pairs Team handicap will be 20%
of combined, but with a new rule that the team handicap may not be greater
the handicap of the lowest handicapped player in the pair.
Early sign-up is recommended at Shenanigans as this
tournament usually sells out quickly. There are entry forms, with full
details, on the golf notice board behind the bar and in Pattaya Mail, or
contact Mike Franklin direct for more information on 01 861 8036, or e-mail
[email protected]
Chadbourn, Ovegren & Dyke winners in Diana March Open
Mike Franklin
The March Diana Seniors & Ladies Open at Pattaya
Country Club produced a wide spread of winners in the Divisions and
Technical holes, making the most of the fine weather and fast running
fairways. The best feature of the course was undoubtedly the condition of
the greens, always providing a challenge and the key to success.
The Ladies Division was won by Trudy Chadbourn, winding
down on a visit from Spain and hopefully returning for a long stay in
November. Her score of 40 Stableford points just nudged Mam Trayling with 39
points into runner-up spot.
Ake Ovegren, shortly to return with wife Pid to Sweden,
claimed the Seniors prize with 39 points and Chris John’s 36 points with
19 points on the back nine was good enough for runner-up. George Meigh, also
with 36 points, just losing out with only 16 points on the back nine.
The Super Seniors winner was Danny Dyke in a three-way
count-back on 38 points. He scored 20 points on the back nine; Terry Phur
scored 18 points to be runner-up with Arthur Bailey missing out with 17
points.
Near pins were claimed by Roland Soderberg, Frank Baker,
Keith Hector and Ake Ovegren. Arthur Bailey and Hans Jacobssen sank the
longest first putts on nine and eighteen.
Prize-giving was, as usual, in the clubhouse with a
special welcome to newcomers David Mawford, Sara K., Joy Choi, Pid & Ake
Ovegren, The Chadbourns Barry & Trudy, and finally the Lawtons John
& Suzi.
Thursday April 29 is the next Diana Seniors & Ladies
Open at Pattaya Country Club.
Sign-up sheets are up in the Green Bottle pub and at the Diana Driving
Range, North Pattaya.
Course innovation drives golf forward
Frank Lynn
The South East Asia News Agency (SEANA) reports an
outstanding innovation for a new golf course and resort shortly to be
constructed in Chonburi Province, Thailand, close to the Bangpra reservoir.
With a forecast completion date of January 2006 the course will add a
further playing facility and option to the fast growing population of
golfers in the Eastern Seaboard and Bangkok areas.
The 400 rai plot designated for the development is not
quite large enough for a conventional 27 hole three nine layout so the
designer, veteran Japanese Navy admiral, Paroneoshi Shanakarama of the
Hiroshi Land Development Co. Fukuoka, had the innovative idea of creating a
single 24 hole, par 96, links course. The development, named the Patanamata
Links Golf Course & Resort, will feature an amazing Japanese style
clubhouse and spa, built by skilled Japanese artisans with authentic
materials and wood imported from Hokkaido in the north, central Honshu, and
Kyushu in the southern province of Fukuoka, also famous for its fine pottery
dating back to 10,000 BC and the Jomon period. A small exhibition of
priceless artifacts and antique watercolors will be shown in the Yakimono
room adjacent to the Aikido member’s bar. The Rising Sun roof terrace
complex will double as a 36 bay floodlit driving range using directional
multi-phase halogen lighting and laser activated ball dispensers.
Most spectacular will be the double floating green
serving the 14th and 21st par 3 holes. State of the art technology will
enable sensors to feed digital display yardage panels, sited on the tees to
indicate the yardage to the center of the green at the moment of play. The
reason for this advanced aid will not be immediately apparent, but is due to
the floating double green having a movement capability, back and forth, of
up to 15 yards due to magnetically sensored underwater sluice gates creating
variable currents to initiate controlled movement. Firm anchoring of the
green, fore & aft, will prevent any movement in excess of the 15 yard
optimum. However, a further factor will be the underwater activity of giant
catfish in the lake, some weighing up to 100 kilos, creating additional
currents and eddies around the green.
This innovation is unlikely to affect high handicap
golfers in their club selection, but mid-handicap, and certainly low
handicap golfers, will need to adjust to the prevailing hole yardage on the
day and at the moment of setting up. Caddies will have special training to
assist, and take into account the other club selection factors of wind,
humidity and general weather conditions.
The yardage may also vary between golf groups accessing
the tees, and indeed between individual golfers in a group teeing off. A
name suggested for this technological innovation is the ‘digital wager
panel’ as it enhances the opportunity for competitive play on these two
holes off the tee, as well as on the green.
Access to the green on both the 14th and 21st holes will
be by an electronically controlled Yatsuhashi bridge that will automatically
adjust in sync with the movement of the green. Golf carts at Patanamata
Links will be obligatory and, to add a further dimension to the innovations
planned for this exciting resort, some golf carts, aptly named aqua carts,
will be specifically designed to drive on water. The technology for aqua
motoring has been around for nearly 40 years but, as far as records show,
aqua carts are not believed to have been featured previously at a golf
course.
Course rules will stipulate that players must be at least
18 years old and hold a current valid driving license. Four-balls will be
the group maximum, and golf or aqua carts obligatory with two players
sharing. The aqua carts will be fitted with life jackets and sonar units to
alert the driver to obstacles in the water.
Admiral Paroneoshi Shanakarama is also believed to be in
discussion with the Uni-Titliest Corporation to develop a high velocity
Beranium double-core floating ball that, for the less skilled golfers, could
be driven across water ‘Barnes Wallis’ style to access greens where the
carry is too long. This certainly applies to the 14th and 21st holes where
the carry to the center of the green from the medal tees will vary between
190 and 220 yards at all times.
Another feature on the 8,900 yard course will be a par 7
double dog-leg hole measuring 849 yards by the conventional attack route,
but only 620 yards using a treacherous ‘as the crow flies’ line across
water, over trees and crossing the strategically positioned Bonsai forest.
The tees are set at a 15 degree upwards incline to generate more loft on
impact. Apparently there will be more exciting innovative features to be
revealed when the complete plan of the resort is released.
The Thai Golf Press Association (TGPA) was asked to
comment on the plans for the Patanamata Links Golf Course & Resort
revealed so far, but declined to take any positive view pending talks with
TGA and USGA officials, and the Hiroshi Land Development Company.
www.fukuoka_landco.com
Release 1st April 2004
St Andrew’s Equestrian Centre Open Competition
On Saturday, February 28, St. Andrew’s Equestrian
Centre hosted its first official competition. Starting off at 8 a.m. with
entry level dressage tests attracting many first time competitors (and some
seasoned riders) from St. Andrews Equestrian Centre, Horseshoe Point and
Outdoor Stables, Pattaya, the event continued again in the afternoon with
the jumping events.
 Declared
a great success, more than 70 entries were judged throughout the day and
most of the riders went home with at least one rosette. The competition was
organized mainly to give the less experienced riders a chance to compete in
a friendly, casual atmosphere.
The judge, Laurel Peters, who traveled all the way form
Bangkok, was very impressed by the standard of riding performed at the
event, particularly the skills showed by the children. Most of the riders
were riding what is referred to in the ‘horsey set’ as “school horses
and ponies”. These mounts are not the easiest to ride at the best of
times, having to cope with beginners almost every day. But they performed
beautifully for the riders and everyone was very pleased with the results.
 Even
though the competition was ‘casual’, the riders all took time to plait
the ponies and horses’ manes, which really added to the atmosphere and
allowed the spectators to get the feel of a big-time competition.
St. Andrew’s Equestrian Centre is planning to organize another similar
competition in June and hopefully again in November. For information about
St. Andrew’s Equestrian Centre please call Alison at 01-2577140.
Results of St Andrew’s Equestrian Center Open Competition:
Preliminary Dressage #1
10 years and over
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Arm Tango SAEC
2.Anuphon Walkie-Talkie HSP
3.Arm Storm SAEC
4.Tracy Walkie-Talkie HSP
Under 10 years
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Look-Pud Chum-Chim HSP
2.Anneleen Charlie Brown SAEC
3.Anneleen Nin SAEC
4.Michelle Campari SAEC
5.Catrine Whiskey SAEC
Preliminary Dressage #2
Adults
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Elaine Token HSP
2.Willi Spirit OSP
Children
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Eline Charlie Brown SAEC
2.Eline Daisy SAEC
3.Arm Tango SAEC
4.Jodie Daisy SAEC
5.Tanya Bonito SAEN
6.Anna Bonito SAEN
Jumping 30 cm
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Michelle Campari SAEC
2.Jakob Tinker SAEC
3.Catrine Whiskey SAEC
4.Michelle Shadow SAEC
5.Catrine Tinker SAEC
Jumping 40 cm
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Anneleen Charlie Brown SAEC
2.Jakob Tinker SAEC
3.Tanya Symphony SAEC
4.Michelle Campari SAEC
5.Michelle Shadow SAEC
Jumping 50 cm
Rider Horse/pony Club
1.Anna Daisy SAEC
2.Anna Bonito SAEC
3.Eline Nin SAEC
4.Look-Wan Treasure HSP
5.Eline Charlie Brown SEAC
Jumping 60 cm
Rider Horse/pony Club
1. Jodie Daisy SAEC
2. Eline Charlie Brown SAEC
3. Tanya Bonito SAEC
4. Arm Storm SAEC
5. Pieter Bonito SAEC
Runners from 24 nations competed in the Third Annual Thailand Temple Run
Bangkok, Thailand ญ The Third Annual Temple Run
presented by Tourism Authority Thailand, Go Thailand Tours and Amari
Watergate Hotel was held on Sunday March 21 in Amphoe Ampawa, Samut
Songkram.
 The
abbot of Wat Phumrinkudeethong Temple blesses the runners before the
marathon
More than 1,100 runners from 24 nations took part in the
Marathon, Half Marathon and 10,5 km races.
After a memorable 04:30 AM opening ceremony with
traditional food offerings from the athletes to the monks and the abbot of
Wat Phumrinkudeethong Temple, TAT deputy governor Khun Santichai
Euachongprasit started the Marathon at 05:00 AM and 278 competitors went on
their 42 km journey along the spectacular route. The Half Marathon and the
10,5 km race went on the way each a half hour later.
 TAT
deputy governor Khun Santichai Euachongprasit starts the marathon at 05:00
AM to send 278 competitors on their 42 km journey.
During darkness runners were guided by torches along the
narrow roads leading through villages and fruit plantations. At temples and
other scenic points traditional Thai bands were performing and cheering for
the runners. At areas with no music, dozens of local dogs encouraged the
competitors with well meant barking.
After sunrise the weather Gods showed mercy and protected
the athletes with a cloud overcast for the duration of the race. The last
runners crossed the finish line shortly after 11:00 AM ญ 6 hours after
start.
Ready, set -
go!
63-year-old Andrew Kotulski from New York City finished
his 518th Marathon on Sunday and said: “The Thailand Temple Run is one of
the best running experiences I ever had ญ I most enjoyed all the
different bands along the course. My time was very slow today because I had
to stop and listen many times. Thailand is unique and beautiful! People are
so friendly! I definitely will be back for another holiday.”
At temples and
other scenic points traditional Thai bands were performing and cheering for
the runners.
Some of Thailand’s elite long distance athletes like
Jirasak Sutthichard, Boonchu Chandeja, Boontueng Srisang and female top
runner Sunisa competed for the Thai Baht 120,000 prize money.
Jirasak Sutthichard set a new course record and came in
first in the Marathon with a time of 02:40:00 just seconds before Sonchai
Chusakul in 02:40:04 and third place Kordeh Senmud in 2:41:32.
The women’s race winner was local hero Sunisa Sailomyen
in 03:15.41 Vannessa Smith from Australia in only her second Marathon ever
came in second place with a time of 3:20:43 and third came Dusanee Sae Heng
in 3:23:44.
The Half marathon winner was Boontueng Srisang in
1:11:15, Boonchu Chandeja was second in 1:11:22 and third place was won by
Sutas Kallayanakitti in 1:12:33. The women’s Half Marathon results were:
1. Saifon Pia-wong in 1:27:52; 2. Patcharee Chaithongsri in 1:27:54; 3.
Saipin Patchoon in 1:32:14.
The organizers were delighted with the turnout of participants and
together with the committee of Amphoe Ampawa district they promise to bring
on an even bigger and more exiting event in 2005.
Parrott returns from rehab to notch hat trick
MBMG International Casuals League - Week 17
At 3.00 Saturday afternoon millions of TV’s flickered
on across Bangkok, as the capital eagerly awaited the latest drama to unfold
in the MBMG Casual League. And what drama unfolded! A story of the boy who
had lost it all, then, through the magic football, found himself.
The Jimmy Parrott story is one that is all too familiar
among young and talented players today. Joining the Mighty Dubliner
pre-season, in a massive six figure deal, Parrott was brought in to score
goals by the hat full, yet finding himself alone and loaded in the big city.
With its twinkling lights and seductive charms, Parrott became renowned for
his off the field antics and was never far from the front pages, a beer in
hand, surrounded by a bevy of beauties. Indeed, many pundits were
questioning the wisdom of the buy and with no goals in 12 games Parrott’s
future was looking grim.
But, after some sharp words from club manager Robbo and
an enforced weeklong stay in a rehab clinic near Hua Hin, Parrott returned
against the Germans and walloped in a wonderful hat trick in the Mighty
Dubliner’s 4-1 win. After the game an upbeat Parrot said of his troubles:
“Yeah, I was largin it with the lads and for a young, good-looking geezer
like me I was getting in to problems with the law. But thanks to the gaffa,
Mr Robbo who’s shown a lot of faith in me, I’m back on the straight and
narrow.”
Bangkok Glitz returned to winning ways as they spanked
the British Club 7-2 and are now looking good for a European spot. Glitz’s
manager Gabril Waagard was in reflective mood at the post match press
conference when asked about his team of male models and pin up boys: “At
the end of the day people don’t realize male modeling is a lot like
football, there’s a lot of hard work that goes on behind the scenes.
It’s not all about scoring although, of course, we do a lot of that,
too.”
The Bullshead gained revenge for their early season loss
to SCI Geckos with a comprehensive 3-0 victory, Khun Chatree scoring the
pick of the goals. The Gecko’s, after beating the league leaders, have
only picked up one point from the last six. McGuiggan, SCI manager bemoaned:
“We should change our name to SCI Chameleon”
Elsewhere Shrewsbury beat Bangkok United 1-0 in what has been described
as an ‘all round jolly fine affair’ and the Les Gaulois drew 1-1 down in
Pattaya. Captain Jean Pierre Le Bleu said “Ah Qui. and lots of other
French stuff”, and then proceeded to roundly praise the French rugby team
while scoffing at the thought that maybe England might be able to get it
together in time for the big match.
PH3 Run #1046
Well here we are run #1046. The circle started at 5:00 pm
and, as all the runs, it starts with the new shoes. There were two pair of
new shoes. The hares come in to tell us about the run. The run starts and
off we go.
V.V. told us it would be a short run. It would have been
except a few of us took those FT’s. I shouldn’t complain because I
always take the FT’s so never follow me. I guess it was a short run for
the FRB because they were in at 45 minutes. I wasn’t there but I was told
two of them were Ivar Opsahl and Na Hee Man. 6:30 pm: the GM calls a circle.
The first one in is Rambo WW2. It ‘s his birthday so we
all sing. Next up the raffle. As always Energizer Bunny does a great job.
Myself with a few others end up on the ice because we can’t read the
numbers on the tickets right. Charlie Manson calls the hares in. It was
decided that it was a good run so there was very little time on the ice for
them. The GM next calls in the Hash Trash and 4 others he caught trashing.
Charlie now calls in RA Sir C. F. and where is Sir Airhead?
GM’s back and next we have two visiting GMs in and on
ice. We had Dizzy from the Gold Coast and Deep Throat from Port Moresby.
They also brought friends so there was very little room on the ice after
everyone got on. K.L. comes in and sings a long song. Kee Mah and lady are
in now. It seems he got out of prison and came to Thailand.
Now the GM has the no Hash shirts in. I think there were
way too many without Hash shirts. Skiing Finn and Apple Pie called in. Why?
It seems they got married and Skiing Finn is leaving to go back to Finland.
They are my neighbors and I wish them all a great life together. Visitors
in! There are 11 of them. Many are on the ice and complain of no room. Free
Willy comes in and shows them there’s always room.
Returnees come in next. What do we have now talkers?
Simon Ebola and Na Hee Man, I think they deserve a little ice. Fini the F.
takes over the circle. He starts out fine icing all the Thai girls before he
calls in 3 men. GM’s back and the Beer Police are in plus Are You Sure and
I’m a Pig for late coming back from run and trashing.
After this we had an anniversary A-A-Holic 100 runs. Fini
back on ice for icing the girls for drinking wine and he got caught with a
glass of wine in hands. The Hares are iced and K.L. sing a song for them.
Hash Hymn and off to the Scandinavian Bar. As usual the
food there was great.
On On
A.A.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Alex Trickett is a British boxing writer of some note.
What is his take on the new WBF heavyweight world champion? Thanks for
axing.
“Whatever they think of Audley Harrison, British fight
fans should be pleased that they were left without a world heavyweight
champion for just 43 days. By beating dubious Dutch opponent Richel Hersisia
on Saturday, Harrison won the lightly-regarded WBF title, taking a healthy
stride in his bid to follow in the footsteps of Lennox Lewis, who retired on
6 February.
The reason for three fights is that he was concentrating
on kick boxing at which he was world champion. His win, by emphatic
fourth-round knockout in front of excited home support at Wembley, sets up
the possibility of “real” world title fights at WBC, WBA, IBF or WBO
level. But, as ever with Audley, all was not quite as it seemed.”
Not to be outdone David Prentice of the Liverpool Echo
writes, “GREAT news for the circus that calls itself world heavyweight
boxing. Fraudley Harrison, a supremely outstanding amateur turned incredibly
unambitious professional, claimed last week: “My plan is to be heavyweight
champion of the world.” “Not to be the undisputed greatest heavyweight
of all time or to have 25 defenses ... Once that goal is achieved I might
just say ‘see you’ to everyone and just retire.” Written the day
before his last fight Mr. Prentice ends with “Tomorrow Harrison fights
Richel Hersisia (that’s Richel, not Rachel, although given the quality of
his previous opponents you’d do well to check).” Ha!
Aussie Danny Green is the real deal. He failed to gain a
KO in his win over Kiwi Sean Sullivan (51-15). Looks might be deceiving. The
win moved Green to 18-1. He wasn’t aware of the win. “The dehydration he
suffered hit him so hard he apologized to his family for losing the bout
when he in fact won the fight,” said trainer Jeff Fenech.
The unanimous decision wasn’t close over the 10 rounds
at 100-90,100-89 and 100-88 with Green suffering the “walk arounds” when
the final bell sounded. Green spent the night in hospital as a precaution.
“I want Danny to have a long break from training to make sure his health
is 100%.”, said Fenech.
Never the victim of a KO in 67 fights, Sullivan was
determined to stay the course. He did. Green had to be helped from the ring
before a sellout crowd at Perth Challenge Stadium by his trainers. Jeff
Fenech stating the obvious by saying, “It was tough but he pushed
himself.”
Next for Green was to have been a trip to the USA for a
possible promotional hookup with Lou DiBella and a rematch with Markus
Beyer. Beyer inflicted the only loss on the Green resume’. That’s all on
hold for now.
Also on the Aussie front I got a note from Referee/Judge
Cousin Bruce McTavish. He’d just returned to the Philippines from
“Vegamiteland” after doing the Briggs fight on March 7 and the Green
contest. I had contacted him in regard to Paul Briggs absence from the ring
from mid 1994 to January 1997. Ask and yea shall receive. “The reason is
that he was concentrating on kick boxing at which he was world champion.”
“Good on ya. Fair dunk’em.”
Indonesia just doesn’t get it. Last week straw weight
Muhammad Rach (reportedly 61-5 but officially 47-7) KO’s in 2 rounds
Somyot Sor Vorapin (officially 0-1). What in the name of all that is holy is
a commission allowing a fighter with 54 fights in the ring with a guy making
his first trip into the Square Ring? Muhammad’s trainer wasn’t in the
ring with his fighter as he’s serving a three-month suspension for
“alleged responsibility in the death of boxer Antonius Mosse in
January.” They just don’t get it. “No, it makes no difference your
meaning of the word ‘it’”.
For WBA #3 122 Lb Somsak Sithchatchawal (37-1-1,29 KOs)
the #13 didn’t prove unlucky. He defended his PABA superbantam title for
the 13th time with a lopsided unanimous decision over Dondon Lapuz Thursday
a week. File the win under “BFD” as the loser is now 3-9-1. Somsak was
the WBF 122 Lb title holder between 1998 - 2000 which is like kissing your
sister. May be fun but you don’t want anyone to know about it.
If you were at the Por Kungpao Restaurant in Bangkok last
week you could have ordered the “Medgoen Another 3K Battery” Singsurat
(34-3, 22 KOs) 5th round surrender” of Nonong Devilleres (17-4) to retain
his ABC superfly title. Medgoen’s claim to fame was winning the WBC fly
title from Manny Pacquiao in 1999. Medgoen would only defend successfully
once before losing via 7th round TKO to Malcolm Tunacao (15-1). The latter
would lose the title in his second defense to Pongsaklek Wongjongkam (38-2)
when he was knockdown 3 times in the first and out.
In the land of 10 million nervous sheep and as many
lonely men, Scottish superfeather Alex Arthur (17-1) got back on the winning
side with a 1 round KO of Ugandan Michael Kizza (18-4). Alex also gets a
minor IBF Interim International title. “The fight seemed somewhat of a
mismatch.” Shirley you jest!
In a real fight WBA/IBF Super Middle Champ Sven Ottke
(34-0) and challenger Armand Krajnc (29-3) hooked it up for real last
Saturday night in Magdeburg, Germany. This was the first of Ottke’s
advertised last year in the ring. He tossed an almost shut out winning
120-110, 120-108 and 119-109. Ottke retained his IBF and WBA supermiddle
weight then said, “I quit. No mass. That’s it”. The 37-year old Ottke,
who will end up his career never having fought outside his native Germany.
On the other side Krajnc has never fought in his homeland of Sweden. Why? No
professional boxing in Sweden.
Heck of a fight on the books for tomorrow night in
Manchester. It showcases Ricky “The Hit Man” Hatton (34-0) against
Kelson Pinot (20-0). It’s not Hatton’s opponent that makes this fight
important but world wide TV of the event which should work as a showcase for
the always exciting Hatton. The “co-feature” is Sharmba “The Jerk”
Mitchell (53-3) vs. Mike Stewart (35-1). Next up? With a win it’s a good
money fight for the likeable Hatton against.
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