PATTAYA, Thailand – The Bunker Boys made the trip to Samut Prakan for a long-awaited return to The Vintage Club on Monday, November 24. Recent weather meant some ongoing course maintenance—sanded greens and returfing in places—but overall conditions were decent, with greens noticeably quicker than our usual local tracks.
A larger-than-expected turnout took on the extra travel with enthusiasm, and most enjoyed the experience. Scoring was extremely competitive, with several players delivering rounds that on another day would easily win. Near pins were well contested, going to newcomer Tim Duffy, Les Cobban, Paul Smith, and Michael Brett.
The course is booked again for the next two months, and with conditions sure to improve, it will be interesting to see who puts their hand up next time. Meanwhile, a club decision on tee selection is imminent, with a “take it or leave it” solution expected shortly.
Results: 1st Paul Smith (7) – 41 pts. 2nd Sean Murphy (22) – 40 pts. 3rd Les Cobban (12) – 39 pts. 4th Bil Richardson (22) – 38 pts. Near pins: Les Cobban, Tim Duffy, Paul Smith, Michael Brett
Pleasant Valley Golf Course always brings a touch of trepidation due to its reputation for slow rounds and oversized playing groups. While we fortunately avoided being stuck behind a sixball on Wednesday, November 26 , the course was still very busy, making for another long walk around.
Despite the pace, the course was in fine condition, with only one soggy area. Strong winds also added to the challenge. Keith Norman delivered an exceptional round to take top spot and extend his already commanding lead in the Golfer of the Month standings. Sean Murphy continued his good run with second place, while Michael Brett completed the podium.
Results: 1st Keith Norman (18) – 41 pts. 2nd Sean Murphy (21) – 35 pts. 3rd Michael Brett (18) – 33 pts. Near pins: Derek Riordan, Michael Brett, Colin Greig (x2)
Thursday, November 27, the first day of the Kabin Buri away trip began with some unexpected drama as two scheduled players failed to arrive, forcing a reshuffle of the groups. The Kabin Buri Sports Club itself was in excellent condition, but a strong wind made the round more demanding.
Scores were impressive regardless, with the team of Bil Richardson, Paul Smith, and Keith Norman posting a superb net 59. Near pins were dominated by Sean Murphy and returning player Jay Babin, who showed he hadn’t lost his touch after months away.
Results: 1st Richardson / Smith / Norman – Net 59. Runners-up Greig / Smith / Harnett – Net 62. Near pins: Jay Babin (x2), Sean Murphy (x2)
Friday, November 28 – Kabin Buri Sports Club (Stableford)
Another windy day greeted the group for the second Kabin Buri round (Stableford) on Friday, November 28. With yet another member departing early for personal reasons, the groups were mixed again to keep things lively.
Keith Norman completed a remarkable week with yet another win, sealing Golfer of the Month by a wide margin. Robby Watts took second, while Michael Brett claimed third despite four wipes on his card. Near pins were all taken, with Alan Sullivan securing two.
Kabin Buri once again proved an ideal destination for a short golf getaway, supported by comfortable accommodation at Serenity Resort and Spa. Plans are already forming for the next trip, with several appealing options on the table.
Results:
1st Keith Norman (18) – 35 pts. 2nd Robby Watts (12) – 33 pts. 3rd Michael Brett (18) – 32 pts. Near pins: Colin Greig, Sean Murphy, Alan Sullivan (x2)
