PATTAYA, Thailand – On Tuesday, 24 February, 20 players gathered for morning coffee and the pairing of flights. We were delighted to welcome Ian Lingard for his first game with our society at Eastern Star Golf Course. Under sunny skies, we set off to a beautiful course with its own unique challenges, presented in perfect condition. Spirits were high as we looked forward to an exciting competition.
Despite the strong turnout, the course proved demanding. Only one player managed to play to his handicap: John Dean, who claimed the day’s victory with 36 Stableford points. Runner-up was Mark Bromwich, close behind with 35 points.
For others, the challenge was real. Ian Lingard even had the “special experience” of going home with the spoon.
Results – Tuesday, 24 February (Eastern Star)
1st John Dean (36) – 36 points
2nd Mark Bromwich (33) – 35 points
Near pins were won by John Dean, Robert Charbonneau, and Allan Cassin.
Thursday, 26 February, brought us to Pattavia Golf Course for a special format: three clubs and a putter. The novelty clearly appealed, as we recorded our largest turnout ever with 26 players. After coffee at MyBar, we headed to the course under cloudy but pleasant skies. Pattavia was in fine condition, though its greens demanded precision.
As play progressed, the weather shifted—first a breeze, then tropical rain. Unfortunately, the downpour limited us to 12 holes, but the shortened contest still delivered drama. Several players were tightly grouped, and in the end, Mark Bromwich continued his fine form from Tuesday, winning with 27 points. Seamus O’Connor secured second place with 26 points, edging Nigel Irvine on countback.
Willem Lasonder, impressed by the size of the field, admitted concentration was difficult and accepted the spoon with good humor.
Results – Thursday, 26 February (Pattavia)
1st Mark Bromwich (36) – 27 points
2nd Seamus O’Connor (25) – 26 points
Near pins went to Robert Charbonneau and Ian Lingard.
Spoon of the Year 2025
After careful calculation, it was time to present the Spoon of the Year 2025. Willem Lasonder had the honor of awarding the trophy to Mark Bromwich, who convincingly claimed the title with 11 spoons — a memorable achievement celebrated with plenty of laughter.
