PATTAYA, Thailand – At 8,057 yards from the back tees, Kabin Buri Country Club claims the title of Thailand’s longest course—but on Monday, July 14, the KBSC group wisely opted for the yellow tees. Heavy overnight rain left the course damp enough for carts to be kept off fairways, so it was lift, clean and place all day, a condition some seemed to embrace eagerly.
Continuing an impressive run of form, Robbie Watts secured his fourth consecutive win with 37 points off a now more realistic handicap of 14. Les Cobban was just two strokes behind in second, while Chris Delamare, in his first round at Kabin Buri, posted 32 points to take third. Near pin prizes went to Les Cobban, Witt Mann, Alan Sullivan and Frank Dartford.
Slow play again raised its head for discussion, with recent professional and amateur incidents highlighting the need for golfers to maintain pace and respect on course. Whether it’s slow play, club throwing or worse, it’s a reminder to all to play the game in the spirit it was meant—like ladies and gentlemen.
Results:
1st Robbie Watts (14) – 37 points
2nd Les Cobban (11) – 35 points
3rd Chris Delamare (1) – 32 points
The following day, Tuesday, July 15, saw the group finally able to enjoy an Ambrose competition, long requested and happily realised on this away trip. With the course drying quickly, carts were back on most fairways. The team of Robbie Watts, Chris Delamare and Alan Sullivan clinched victory with a net 66, while Frank Dartford, Uwe Jurgensen, Jay Babin and Tony Robbins finished second on net 68. Near pins were taken by Tony Robbins, Frank Dartford and Chris Delamare (twice).
The short two-day getaway was capped with dinner and live music, and even a bit of dancing—led by the ever-sprightly Bill Richardson.
Results:
1st Robbie Watts / Chris Delamare / Alan Sullivan – Net 66
2nd Frank Dartford / Uwe Jurgensen / Jay Babin / Tony Robbins – Net 68
The week wrapped up on Friday, July 18 at Treasure Hill, known as the toughest track on the KBSC calendar. In pleasant weather and with few others on the course, Steve Downes carded an excellent 39 points, narrowly missing out on 40 after a late-round fade. Tony Robbins followed with 34, and Robbie Watts added another podium finish with 33.
Though the club is running short on numbers due to injuries and summer travel, the group presses on, unlike some societies that pause for the low season. A changing course roster might lie ahead as local courses adjust pricing to match demand.
Results:
1st Steve Downes (5) – 39 points
2nd Tony Robbins (24) – 34 points
3rd Robbie Watts (14) – 33 points
Near pins: Robbie Watts, Craig Dows, Murray Greig and Gerry Cooney.
