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SPORTS

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Results & Standings Nov. 5 (week 10)

Division 1

Team P W L F A +/- BP Pts.

The Irish Rovers 10 9 1 97 65 32 0 27

Links Bar 10 9 1 96 71 25 0 27

Pook’s Bar 10 6 4 88 84 4 0 18

Sweethearts Bar 9 5 4 78 74 4 1 16

The Butchers Arms 10 5 5 85 84 1 0 15

Nicky’s Bar 10 3 7 77 88 -11 2 11

Easy R-Con Bar 9 1 8 70 88 -18 2 5

The Caddyshack 8 0 8 43 80 -37 1 1

Results: Easy R-Con Bar 8 v 10 Links Bar, Nicky’s Bar 7 v 10 The Butchers, Pook’s Bar 5 v 10 Sweethearts Bar, Caddyshack 4 v 10 Irish Rovers

Division 2

Team P W L F A +/- BP Pts.

TJ’s Bar 10 9 1 94 58 36 0 27

Hotties 10 7 3 88 59 29 0 21

The Stag’s Head 10 7 3 82 75 7 0 21

Eor’s Bar 10 6 4 84 69 15 2 20

Mai’s Bar 9 5 4 69 71 -2 1 16

Offshore Bar 10 3 7 80 82 -2 2 11

Rabbi’s Elephant 9 2 7 51 84 -33 1 7

The Drunken Duck 10 0 10 50 100 -50 0 0

Results: Eor’s Bar 9 v 10 Rabbi’s Elephant, Mai’s Bar 10 v 6 The Stag’s Head, Offshore Bar 6 v 10 TJ’s Bar, Drunken Duck 5 v 10 Hotties

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

First place VFW Post 9876 is now only one half point in front of Brother D after only winning two points from Indiana. Pao Orawan bowled a 506 series for VFW and Brand had a 504 for Indiana.
Brother D won three points from Café Kronborg and Kronborg dropped from fourth to fifth place. Kran Nielsen rolled a 513 series and Morn Mack had a 502 series for Kronborg. Tue Pettae bowled a 208 game for Brother D.
Canada and Green Tree split their match with each team winning two points. Lek Reaper bowled a 203 game and Antero Ronkainen bowled a 215 game, 510 series, for Canada. Noodle Russell bowled a 223 game, 586 series, for Green Tree.
Aht Johansson rolled a 514 series to lead Bavaria to a four point win over Mitt in 2012. Bavaria moved up from fifth to fourth place.

200 Bowlers: Antero, Noodle, Tue & Lek.

Results & Standings Nov. 9 (week 27)

Pos. Team Score Standings

1 VFW Post 9876 2-2 62 - 46

2 Brother D 3-1 61.5 - 46.5

3 Green Tree 2-2 57.5 - 50.5

4 Bavaria 4 - 0 54.5 - 53.5

5 Café Kronborg 1-3 51.5 - 56.5

6 Canada 2-2 51 - 57

7 Indiana 2-2 50.5 - 57.5

8 Mitt in 2012 0 – 4 43.5 - 64.5

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings Nov. 5 (week 8)

Division 1

Team Played Won Lost For Agst Diff. Pts.

Biggy’z Rest A 8 7 1 70 50 20 22

Shoot Pool B 8 6 2 73 47 26 20

Crazy Eddie’s 8 5 3 63 57 6 18

Dean’s Bar 8 4 4 67 53 14 16

San Snack Bar 8 4 4 55 65 -10 16

Phimai Geordie 8 2 6 56 64 -8 12

KiK Bar 8 2 6 51 69 -18 12

Old Thaiangle 8 2 6 45 75 -30 12

Results: Biggy’z Rest A 8 v 7 Dean’s Bar, Crazy Eddie’s 9 v 6 KiK Bar, San Snack Bar 9 v 6 Phimai Geordie, Old Thaiangle 4 v 11 Shoot Pool B

Division 2

Team Played Won Lost For Agst Diff. Pts.

Shoot Pool A 8 7 1 80 40 40 22

Mee Chew 8 5 3 63 57 6 18

Joy’s Paradise 7 5 2 57 48 9 17

Biggy’z Rest B 8 4 4 63 57 6 16

Connections 8 3 5 49 71 -22 14

Parrot Inn 7 3 4 48 57 -9 13

Rising Sun 8 2 6 53 67 -14 12

Buffalo Jack’s 8 2 6 52 68 -16 12

Results: Shoot Pool A 9 v 6 Rising Sun, Connections 9 v 6 Mee Chew, Parrot Inn P v P Joy’s Paradise, Buffalo Jack’s 8 v 7 Biggy’z Rest B

Sea-Fishing with Pattaya Sports Club

Dene Mundy
Our first trip for November on Saturday 3rd departed from Sattahip Pier following relocation of the Khram Marine boat from Bang Saray. Around this time each year the tides and winds in Bang Saray necessitate the move to new waters in Sattahip for about 2 months.

Adrian with his prize catch.

As in prior years, we found the fish to be somewhat larger in these waters. Two large sweet-lip cod around 3 kilos were caught, one by Adrian as shown in the photo. The usual grouper, yellow tail, snapper and pla daeng were plentiful but, being larger in size, all our bag catches were a bit heavier than usual, in the main 6 to 8 kilos each.
The fishing conditions were ideal all day making 5 trips straight we have reveled in calm waters and blue skies.
On Saturday 8th November, our group set out from Sattahip Pier at 07:00 hours in mirror-like waters – not a ripple to be seen. The skies were blue with occasional clouds, the winds were light and we were eagerly awaiting a great day’s fishing.
It was a mixed day, however; as 2 hours after departure storm clouds gathered and soon it was raining. Not heavily fortunately and 10 minutes later the rain disappeared and conditions were excellent for the remainder of the day.
No big cod were caught but many large snapper, yellow tail and grouper around ½ to 1 kilo were landed. Two or three of the group had mediocre catches of 2 to 4 kilos whereas the remainder of us had good bag catches of 6 to 10 kilos. I proclaimed myself champ for the day with 14 kilos (after scaling and cleaning).
Our next 2 trips on 17 and 22 November are fully booked.

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings Nov. 2 (week 8)

Division 1

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

TJ’s Bar 8 7 1 27 0 21

Shoot Pool 6 5 1 22 0 15

Sweethearts Bar 6 5 1 15 0 15

The Butchers Arms 8 5 3 11 0 15

Pook’s Bar 8 3 5 0 2 11

Nicky’s Bar 8 3 5 -7 1 10

Crazy Eddie’s 8 3 5 -10 0 9

Links Bar 6 2 4 -4 0 6

FCUK Inn 8 0 8 -54 0 0

Results: Shoot Pool 10 v 4 Pook’s Bar, TJ’s Bar 10 v 1 FCUK Inn, Sweethearts 10 v 8 Nicky’s Bar, Butchers 10 v 8 Links Bar

Division 2

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

Biggyz Rest 8 8 0 44 0 24

The Irish Rovers 8 6 2 17 1 19

Old Thai Angle 8 5 3 7 1 16

Offshore Bar 8 5 3 8 0 15

Mata Bar 8 3 5 -3 1 10

Mai’s Bar 8 3 5 -10 1 10

The Queen Vic 8 3 5 -12 1 10

The Stag’s Head 7 2 5 -21 0 6

The Ranch 7 0 7 -30 1 1

Results: Irish Rovers 10 v 9 Old Thai, The Ranch 5 v 10 Mata Bar, Queen Vic 7 v 10 Offshore Bar, Stag’s Head 5 v 10 Mai’s Bar

Division 3

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

Dean’s Bar 8 7 1 33 0 21

Easy R-Con Bar 7 6 1 25 0 18

Tie’s R Us 8 5 3 16 2 17

Hotties 8 5 3 3 0 15

Punch & Judy 6 3 3 9 0 9

Buffalo Jacks 8 2 6 -19 2 8

Jolie Bar 7 2 5 -17 1 7

Rabbi’s Elephant 8 2 6 -23 1 7

Connections 8 2 6 -27 0 6

Results: Jolie Bar 6 v 10 Hotties, Tie’s R Us 9 v 10 Connections, Rabbi’s 1 v 10 Dean’s Bar, Punch & Judy P v P Easy R-Con

Field gets the ‘Chop’ at Pattaya C.C.

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Neil Jones (left) & Bob Duxbury - winner & runner-up at Treasure Hill.

Monday, Nov. 5, Burapha A & B – Stableford
Twenty-nine players turned out at Burapha to play the A and B courses off the blue tees on a hot and humid day with a light breeze and a good day for golf.
The A course was in great condition but the B course looked a little rough as some of the course hadn’t been cut although the greens were pretty consistent throughout. The first six groups kept up a great pace of play but the last two groups were nearly three holes behind but thankfully there weren’t too many other groups behind, to be held up.
Two divisions plus the ‘2’s and the best score was recorded by Ivan Plunkett with 36 points off his 23 handicap to win division 2 from Chris Thompson on 34 points and third place going to Clint Pingree with 33 points; fourth was Bob Lindborg with 32 points, beating Greg Hill on a count back.
Division 1 was won by Bernie Stafford with 35 points, edging out John O’ Keefe on count back; third was Stephen Mann on 33 points who beat Paul Greenaway (7) also on count back.
Welcome to a couple of new guys; namely Kevin Curtis and Paul Hardon and welcome back to Jim Peachey.
Four ‘2’s for the day to Paul Greenaway on A3, Jim Brackett on A6 and Stephen Mann & Paul Pedelty on B8.
Div A (0-14)
1st Bernie Stafford (14) 35pts
2nd John O’Keefe (14) 35pts
3rd Stephen Mann (8) 33pts
Div B (15+)
1st Ivan Plunkett (23) 36pts
2nd Chris Thompson (24) 34pts
3rd Clint Pingree (31) 33pts
Monday, Nov. 5, Khao Kheow A & B - Stableford
Five of us travelled to Khao Kheow to play A & B off the white tees. This was discussed between the men and they opted for the shorter course; unfortunately for the big hitters, their plan of action didn’t pay off as they found the course too short for their second shot. (I might have been laughing just a smidgen). A course was in good condition and B was only slightly better than average but the greens were true.
Poor Barry McIntosh got the only ‘2’ today but we didn’t play for 2’s due to lack of players and to sum it up Barry was promised a kiss from his caddie if he holed his putt but she ran a mile so it (the kiss) did not materialize.

The Wanneroo boys.

The Outback has moved Khao Kheow to Tuesdays for the next three months on a trial period to support Pattaya Country Club which isn’t quite up to speed and also to hopefully for it (KK) to be more popular than in recent months due to the resurgence of Burapha.
1st Suzi Lawton (19) 36pts
2nd Tony Schuett (17) 36pts
3rd Shane Crane (22) 33pts
Tuesday, Nov. 6, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
This was the Outback’s first Tuesday here since the opening of the back nine after being closed for seven months. There has been some improvement since the opening day last week, however the ‘patchwork’ around the back nine will not be up to scratch for some time.
Whilst there was a small field of some 13 players it was truly international, with Australians, Brits, French and Thais.
We welcomed Jean-Paul and Willie from France, as well as three lovely Thai ladies, Chop, Orn and Onsee and it was one of the girls, Chop, who stole the day with 37pts playing off a handicap of 10.
Playing partners, Fidge & Fordy fought it out to the bitter end, both ending up with 36pts (Fordy getting the nod) whilst Shane, one of their other playing partners, only claim to fame was to be last to claim the NAGA!
There were two ‘2’s from Onsee and Chad.
1st Chop Daprakhon (10) 37pts
2nd Robert Ford (20) 36pts
3rd Fidge Button (15) 36pts
Wednesday, Nov. 7, Treasure Hill - Stableford
Ten Outbackers travelled up the 331 to Treasure Hill, our second visit here in six weeks, and we managed to start 30 minutes early and had the course to ourselves until the back nine when a group of locals jumped in front of us but never mind, TiT.
They were still carrying out extensive work, including laying new grass on six holes near the greens (four on the front and two on the back) and in my mind we should leave it about another six weeks before returning; as it made it very difficult as to where to drop your ball if you landed in the GUR.
We did play off the yellow tees to give the boys a bit of chance but this is still a tight and longish course and you also have to think about placing the ball and not always launching one with the driver down the fairway.
Neil Jones stepped up to the mark and took the win with a score of 34pts from Bob Duxbury, who was pleased to get second on his first outing back in Pattaya for some months, welcome back Bob.
There were two ‘2’s from Ivan Plunkett & Ken Davidson
1st Neil Jones (12) 34pts
2nd Bob Duxbury (14) 32pts
3rd John O’Keefe (14) 31pts

Wednesday, Nov. 7, Siam Plantation A & C - Stableford
We were at Siam Plantation on A & C for our normal Weds outing and great to be joined by Dave and his mates from the Sportsman Bar which boosted the numbers playing to 29. I also had the good chance to catch up with Robert Hole and friends from Wanneroo, who came with the Sportsman boys - thanks for the day boys, very enjoyable and you are welcome at the Outback anytime.

Friday winners, Mark Riggall (left) with Bob St. Aubin.
The course was in its usual great condition and from the comments around, everybody enjoyed the day and we were very lucky as the storms hit Pattaya and the surrounding areas but we only got a little rain on one hole. Great conditions for golf and the Sportsman boys took all the money as the Outbackers had an off day.
Paul Bourke was having an especially off day and Paul Greenaway told him to follow through properly and unfortunately for Bourkie he did, which made for a really sh***y round.
Two divisions plus the ‘2’s and the outstanding rounds for the day went to the winners of both divisions with Jim Graham having 38 points off his 17 handicap in Division 2 and James McCallan with 38 points off his 9 handicap to win Division 1, great rounds by both.
Other good scores were recorded by Trevor Oliver and David Coller, the only Outbacker to finish on the podium, both with 36 points, and Dave Dunn and Dennis Steele both with 37 points.
Four ‘2’s for the day to James McCallan on Sugar Cane 3, Jim Graham and Dennis Steele on Sugar Cane 6 and David Coller on Pineapple 3.
Div A (0-15)
1st James McCallan (9) 38pts
2nd Trevor Oliver (12) 36pts
3rd Terry Power (11) 35pts
Div B (16+)
1st Jim Graham (17) 38pts
2nd Dave Dunn (16) 37pts
3rd Denis Steele (16) 37pts
Friday, Nov. 9, St. Andrews - Stableford
Thirty Outbackers were switched to St Andrews today as Green Valley was hosting a two-day competition.
Captain Steve was having a day off from running things so I set the boys off. We played from the ‘whites’ today and it’s a good job we did, as the scores certainly reflected the difficulty of the course. Generally the course was in good condition although some of the greens had been diseased but were coming back to form and again some of the bunkers had varying amounts of sand.
Bob St. Aubin hit the best round of the day, scoring an excellent 38pts to win Div B by three from John O’Keefe, who continues to play very steadily and Muzza took third also on 35pts but losing out to John on count back.
Mark Riggall took the premier division with 37pts from Paul Bourke and Ian Heddle both on 34 and the surprise result was in Div C, which was won by Suzi (yes me!) with just 31pts from Fordy with the same score and I am delighted to say, I also beat Sugar who was in third with 30.
The other surprise of the day, there were no ‘2’s.
Div A (0-13)
1st Mark Riggall (13) 37pts
2nd Paul Bourke (9) 34pts
3rd Ian Heddle (5) 34pts
Div B (14-16)
1st Bob St. Aubin (14) 38pts
2nd John O’Keefe (14) 35pts
3rd Murray Hart (14) 35pts
Div C (17+)
1st Suzi Lawton (19) 31pts
2nd Robert Ford (20) 31pts
3rd Sugar Ray Handford (17) 30pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 087 941 2474.

Bjarne’s Birthday-Bash honours go to the ‘Dark Side’

PSC golf from Café Kronborg

Monday, Nov. 5, Plutaluang East & South – Scramble
Bjarne Nielsen of the Café Kronborg celebrated his 54th birthday by hosting his annual birthday bash 4-person Ambrose/scramble golf day at the testing Plutaluang golf course. A full sheet ensured that there were plenty of eager teams challenging to have the best fun that only Ambrose/scramble events can offer to all golfers alike.

Birthday Boy Bjarne.
The only pressure that one needs to overcome on a day like this is to get your compulsory three tee shots out of the way and ensure not too many beers or rums are consumed before you do so!
Playing the East and South courses off the white tees proved a bit long for many players and accordingly many birdies were overshadowed by bogeys, resulting in higher than normal net scores. The greens were a bit slow but the presentation of the course in general was superb.
Having commenced teeing off at 10.30am the weather was both hot and overcast at times. There were threats of storms looming in the afternoon as thunder was plentiful and a few spots of rain were felt, however the concerns of most golfers was averted as the storms moved away from the course and all teams were able to complete their rounds without rain delays.
Once the golf was over it was back to the Café Kronborg for drinks, presentations by Dave Richardson “The Admiral”, stories galore and of course the salubrious and legendary buffet dinner that the Nielsen family and staff provide.
The Admiral commenced presentations by rewarding the team of Rose Philp, Nalinee Suria, Nual Russell and Willie Mercer with old golf balls that had “flattened dimples”. These he said skip better over water, in reference to the fact that all four players hit their balls into the water fronting the green on the S9, 18th hole.

Winning team, Bob, Daryl, Richard and Bill with Bjarne.

The team winners of the outing were “dark side” entrants Bob Philp, Daryl White, Bill Marsden and Richard Steadman with a net score of 62.2.
Second place getters were “light side” residents Niels Hansen, Mike Winfield, Jan Lovegreen and Stu Rifkin with net 64.1, followed by the team of Gorden Clegg, Rudy Huber, Laurina Brinn and Maurice Herberg who had 65.7 net.
Near pins were claimed by Graham Beaumont (E2), Laurina Brinn (E5), Noodle Nual Russell (S4) and Bob Philp (S7).
Special thanks goes to the PSC for providing plenty of lucky draw prizes, ensuring that everybody went home with something and also many thanks also for the prizes supplied by Café Kronborg.
Happy Birthday Bjarne!
Thursday, Nov. 8, Crystal Bay – Stableford
Crystal Bay A&B loops were the game today. It was up Sukhumvit for 45 minutes and 10 speed bumps into the clubhouse and we were able to get off tee B1 25 minutes early under sunny skies and with hot conditions prevailing for the whole round. The course on the day was in very good condition with fast greens.
Back in the clubhouse after a round of 4 hours and 20 minutes, welcomes went out to Ulf Larson from Sweden, ,Laurina Brinn and Maurice Herberg from Holland and Danes Arne Max Pederson, Lotte Boskov, Henrik Aagaard, Anne Saabye, Preben Saabye, Henny Nielsen and Jens Erik Nielsen. It was also time to say goodbye to Finn Klarskov who is going back to Denmark.
With a good turnout we had 2 flights with the cut at handicap 20 and the full Monty of near pins and long putts.
Maurice Herberg took the A Flight with a fine 38 points ahead of Henny Nielsen in second on 35 points, Brian Gabe in third with 34 and Arne Max Pederson fourth with 33 points.
Kurt sandgaard took the B Flight on a count backs from Mick O’Connor in second and Daryl Evans third, all with 34 points, while Gordon Clegg placed fourth on a count back from Dave Richardson, both on 33 points.
A Flight (0-20)
1st Maurice Herberg (13) 38pts
2nd Henny Nielsen (20) 35pts
3rd Brian Gabe (20) 34pts
4th Arne Max Pederson (16) 33pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Kurt Sandgaard (36) 34pts
2nd Mick O’Connor (24) 34pts
3rd Daryl Evans (21) 34pts
4th Gordon Clegg (28) 33pts
Near Pins: Ulf Larson (A5), Henny Nielsen (A8), Daryl Evans (B4), Maurice Herberg (B6)
Long Putts: Jens Erik Nielsen (A9), Brian Gabe (B9).
Note: If you are looking for a game of golf while in Pattaya, call Dave on 083 602 2117 or emaildavid2309@ hotmail.com, but please remember we are now into the high season and most outings fill up way in advance of the day, so sign up early!

Niels, Mike, Stuart, Jan and ‘The Admiral’.

Rose and Nual inspect their balls.

Catillon & Buckingham shine at Bangpakong

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Graham Buckingham, Paul Simons & Michael Catillon.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, Nov. 5, Bangpakong – Stableford
Our numbers were down for today’s outing and I can only think that the longer journey seems to put some people off from playing at the classy Bangpakong Riverside Golf Club. We still had eighteen starters however and assembled at The Growling Swan in readiness for the journey. There were several returnees and newcomers so welcomes were afforded to Eric (Judge) Black & Paul Simons from Geelong, Victoria, Australia, J J Harney returning from his trip back home to Ireland, Ken & Wendy Bernek back from a couple of weeks in the USA and first timer John Swanson, a Pattaya resident, formerly from California, USA.
We managed to get away from the GS a couple of minutes ahead of schedule at 8.28 am and arrived at the course 70 minutes later to find it fairly quiet. Although we were running a touch late there was no problem as we weren’t holding any other groups up and we managed to get our first group away five minutes behind schedule at 10.05 am. The weather was once again fantastic and this lovely golf course was looking a treat with lush fairways and perfectly maintained greens although I did find them a touch slower than normal at times.
With no-one directly in front of us we were able to “breeze” round the front nine in a touch over two hours and had a quick drink stop before the 12th tee and then promptly proceeded on our merry way. It did become much hotter during our second nine but plenty of water kept us going at a good pace and the full round was completed in the excellent time of four hours & ten minutes.
My apologies for harping on but I cannot understand for the life in me why true, keen golfers are not prepared to travel the extra mileage to play at this magnificent venue. Another great day out with terrific company & some fairly good golf played at times.

Peter Blackburn, Gary Monley & Max Bracegirdle.

We were able to have 2 grades with four podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 19 & B Grade for 20 and over. We had nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on 9 and 18 which were collectively sponsored by The Growling Swan, Paul Simons, Ebrahim & The French Connection (Alain Taddei, J C Lhoste & Michael Catillon). Many thanks to these golfers for their generosity.
It was a close contest at the top of A Grade with Michael Catillon the winner with a fine 39 points, one point ahead of yours truly in second place. Paul Hack finished third with 35 points and in a count back on 34 points it was Ebrahim (19 point back nine) who finished fourth from Alain (Inspector Clouseau) Taddei (16 point back nine).
Graham “Grunter” Buckingham once more finished on the podium and won the B Grade with 39 points, just 1 point ahead of Jean Claude Lhoste in second spot. Roy Dayton was third with 36 points and his partner Kae fourth on 35 points.
A Flight (0-19)
1st Michael Catillon (19) 39pts
2nd Peter Blackburn (12) 38pts
3rd Paul Hack (11) 35pts
4th Ebrahim (15) 34pts
B Flight (20+)
1st Graham Buckingham (24) 39pts
2nd J C Lhoste (23) 38pts
3rd Roy Dayton (22) 36pts
4th Duangjai Tusagad (32) 35pts
Near Pins: 4th – J J Harney, 7th – J C Lhoste, 13th – Max Bracegirdle, 16 – Brendan Byrne
Long Putts: 9th – Eric Black, 18th – J C Lhoste
The Growling Swan NAGA Award, (awarded to the golfer who has the worst score on the day and discreetly their score is not made public) was well won by Paul Simons and he accepted the award in fine spirit. Then it was back to the Growling Swan and the topics of conversation were the great day of golf and the following day’s running of the “race that stops a nation (Australia)” – The Melbourne Cup!
Thursday, Nov. 8, Rayong Country Club – Stableford
We had 29 signed up to play but ended up with 2 less than that after a couple of newcomer “no shows” and as we all assembled at The Growling Swan the skies were clear and a good day’s golf was anticipated. Returning to Pattaya were Robbie Williams from Geelong, Victoria, Australia and Andre Barril from France to whom hearty welcomes were extended.
Getting away from the GS right on schedule at 8.30 am we headed off and arrived at the golf course 44 minutes later to find it very quiet so we took our time in preparation and were invited to tee off at our leisure. We got our first four-ball away at 9.45 am, 15 minutes ahead of schedule and in fantastic weather conditions we proceeded at a good pace with not a soul in sight ahead of us, truly “millionaires golf”.
The golf course was in fairly good shape although most of the greens were half sanded so the secret was to land the ball on the non-sanded part of the green but of course this is easier said than done. Regardless of that, as the saying goes “it’s the same for everyone “ and it certainly did not deter us from enjoying a good day’s golf.
We coasted through the first nine in just over two hours and after a five or so minute drink stop at half way we continued at a somewhat slower pace as the afternoon sun blazed down which did slow down a couple of us “old chaps”. This resulted in a round of just under four and a half hours but with great company and a challenging layout it was a matter of appreciating “just another day in paradise”.
We were able to have 2 grades with five podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 20 & B Grade for 21 and over. We had nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on 9 and 18 which were collectively sponsored by The Growling Swan, John Pierrel, Ron Gillett, Max Bracegirdle, Lindsay Fry & Robbie Williams. Many thanks to these golfers for their generosity.
We had a “bolter in the A Grade with yours truly having a day out to win with 40 points, 8 points ahead of Mike Gosden (17 point back nine) in second place and John Pierrel (14 point back nine) finishing third. There were four golfers on 30 points vying for fourth & fifth spots and Ken “let’s hear it for” Bernek (15 point back nine) just pipped Eric “Judge” Black (14 point back nine) with J J Harney (13 point back nine) and Ebrahim (13 point back nine) just missing out.
In a very close tussle at the top of B Grade it was Max “two corsets” Bracegirdle (25 point back nine) winning from Duangjai “Kae” Tusagad (21 point back nine) in second spot with both golfers on 39 points. Brendan Byrne finished third with 32 points and yet another count back was required to decide fourth & fifth places with 3 people on 31 points. It was veteran Kevin Dinan (19 point back nine) who ended up fourth and after being all square in all facets on the back nine it was Wendy Bernek (14 points on last 6 holes of the front nine) who claimed fifth place, edging out Bernie McCart (13 points on last 6 holes of the front nine).
A Flight (0-20)
1st Peter Blackburn (12) 40pts
2nd Mike Gosden (12) 32pts
3rd John Pierrel (12) 32pts
4th Ken Bernek (14) 30pts
5th Eric Black (14) 30pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Max Bracegirdle (29) 39pts
2nd Duangjai Tusagad (32) 39pts
3rd Brendan Byrne (23) 32pts
4th Kevin Dinan (27) 31pts
5th Wendy Bernek (34) 31pts
Near Pins: 5th – Mike Gosden, 7th – Wendy Bernek, 12th – Robbie Williams, 16th – Peter Blackburn
Long Putts: 9th – Paul Simons, 18th – Duangjai Tusagad
The Growling Swan NAGA Award, (awarded to the golfer who has the worst score on the day and discreetly their score is not made public) was well won by Gary Monley and he accepted the award in fine spirit. Back at The Growling Swan afterwards the beer was flowing and the usual friendly banter was flying around which capped off yet another very enjoyable day.
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].

Monday Quiz League

Results & Standings Nov. 5

22-Oct 29-Oct 5-Nov Total Total

Pos. Team Sc. Pts Sc. Pts Sc. Pts Score Points

1 Palmers 88 10 70 10 64 5 937 94

2 The Londoner 74 6 70 10 69 8 898 80

3 Offshore Bar 72 5 66 5 58 3 904 79

4 Cheers 72 5 69 6 65 6 900 73

5 The Ranch 60 2 64 4 70 10 874 68

6 Irish Rovers 72 5 63 3 55 2 825 42

7 Nervous Wreck 76 8 52 2 61 4 776 38

Percentage correct by round this week:

Geog. Sport History Movies Science Reading General All Average Team

53.10% 65.30% 65.30% 69.40% 81.60% 32.70% 73.20% 63.10% Total: 63.1

Wednesday Quiz League

Results & Standings Nov. 7

Pos. Team B/F 24-Oct 31-Oct 7-Nov Total

1 Palmers 27 3 2 3 35

2 Rest Stop 28 1 1 2 32

3 The Londoner 24 3 2 2 31

4 Cheers 19 3 3 1 26

5 Offshore 16 3 3 3 25

6 Queen Victoria 17 1 1 3 22

7 Nervous Wreck 14 1 3 1 19

8 Shagwell Mansion 15 1 1 1 18

Results: Offshore 100 v 90 Nervous Wreck, Palmers 108 v 86 Cheers, Rest Stop 102 v 102 The Londoner, Shagwell Mansion 90 v 94 Queen Victoria

Norman conquest at Bangpakong

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Monday, Nov. 5, Bangpra - Stableford
A full complement of 28 players turned out for the visit to the popular Bangpra (monkey) course. Demonstrating his usual efficiency, the starter got us off on time from the 10th tee, and the round progressed smoothly with no significant holdups. The course was in great shape and the greens were slightly slower than they can be, but still way too fast for some of the new arrivals from the European winter.

Tom Jones celebrates his return to Pattaya.
We welcomed back the young Irish rising star, Patrick Kelly (handicap +3) and family members, as well as several other familiar faces making their annual golf pilgrimage to Pattaya.
Bernie Stevens continued his good form to take the overall honours on the day, but there was a veritable plethora of players on 33 and 34 points, giving Buff a headache to sort out the count backs in both divisions.
A brief shower of rain towards the end of the round caught the last 3 groups over the finishing holes, but generally an excellent day was enjoyed by all. Today’s special mention goes to Jack Robertson who recorded his best score since returning to Pattaya, and also claimed his first near pin prize of the year.
A Flight
1st Neil Hurst (13) 34pts
2nd Neil Jones (13) 34pts
3rd Patrick Kelly (+3) 34pts
B Flight
1st Bernie Stevens (18) 36pts
2nd Peter Habgood (17) 33pts
3rd Paul Edgar (18) 33pts
Near Pins: Jack Robertson, Eddie Graham, William Macey and Patrick Kelly.
Wednesday, Nov. 7, Bangpakong – Stableford
The longer trip than usual down the motorway seems to deter a few less dedicated golfers, but those that made the journey found the course in excellent condition as we have come to expect here. The weather was almost perfect - although a few new arrivals complained that it was too hot!
We welcomed back Mike Corner today for the start of his winter golf season, but he was one of those that found the change in temperature difficult to cope with and will need a few more games to acclimatize. The greens had been lightly sanded and hence were a little slower than normal, but the ball rolled true and the conditions were set for some good scores.
Keith Norman produced a superb performance in his fourth game back, to record an impressive score of 42 points and claim the top podium spot by three clear points. The par 3’s are always difficult here, and with two of them over 200 yards, there were some excellent shots made to claim all four near pin prizes.
1st Keith Norman (12) 42pts
2nd Kermit the Frog (5) 39pts
3rd Geoff Parker (12) 39pts
4th Paul Smith (5) 38pts
Near Pins: Keith Norman, Eddie Graham, Paul Smith and Geoff Parker.
Friday, Nov. 9, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
Today’s rearranged fixture at Mountain Shadow was effectively a practice round for the upcoming John Preddy Memorial Charity tournament, which will be held here on 23rd November.
There were more new arrivals today as we welcomed back Mike Lloyd, Phil Moore, and Tom Jones together with a few new faces. The large contingent of golfers took advantage of the opportunity to get familiar with the tricky greens and the round was played in near perfect weather, with the course in great condition.
Paul Smith has seen his handicap rise from 1 up to 5 in recent weeks, but he rediscovered some of his previous form to win the A flight and secure the top podium position on the day.
Neil Griffin took the honours in the B flight narrowly beating Mike Corner on the count back. Reg Smart narrowly missed out on 3rd position to PJ also on a count back, but had the consolation of taking a near pin prize – well done Reg and it’s good to see you getting some form back.
A Flight
1st Paul Smith (5) 37pts
2nd Eddie Graham (10) 35pts
3rd Gordon Melia (17) 35pts
B Flight
1st Neil Griffin (28) 36pts
2nd Mike Corner (19) 36pts
3rd PJ Redmond (23) 32pts
Near Pins: Eddie Kelly, Reg Smart and Paul Smith(2).
Note: The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf society, who now play out of The Ranch bar on Pattaya 3rd Road (in front of the fire station, and almost opposite the Buffalo Bar). 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 Ranch at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new players are always welcome. Contact Buff on 086 046 5091 or 080 605 5663 for all enquiries. You can find all the news, schedules and results on our website at www.bunkersociety.com.

John Preddy Charity Golf Tournament
The annual John Preddy Charity Golf Tournament will be held on Friday 23rd November 2012, at Mountain Shadow G.C. This year’s tournament has received many new sponsors and all proceeds will be donated to the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Abuse Centre (A.T.T.C.) in Nongprue.
With the help of our new sponsors, there’ll be great trophies, prizes, food and a lucky draw. We’re hoping that this year’s tournament will reunite many old members of the Bunker Boys, and the team event will be particularly keenly contested, including teams from different bars and societies from all over Pattaya.
Entry Fee 1,700 Baht per player, contact Buff at the address above for more details and registration. There are only a couple of tee times still available so please don’t leave your booking to the last minute.

Fireworks a-few at Eastern Star

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

The Pattaya Golf Society visited a full Eastern Star on Monday, 5th November, to play a stableford competition in two flights cut at fourteen and under. The course was in good condition but the rough is a real problem, being thick and damp. Of course we shouldn’t visit such parts of the course should we! Unsurprisingly there were to be no fireworks on this auspicious day.
In the second flight Dave Roberts and Phil McClure kept up the Aussie connection with a share of third place with 29 points each whilst Mr Len went one better with thirty points for second place. The flight winner was Neil McIntosh with 33 well deserved points.
In the top flight Ron Mathews posted 31 points for third with Mikael Andersson recording 34 points on his home track to take the win. He shared the win with a golfer who wishes to remain nameless. This correspondent would declare it to the world if he had produced the best gross figures of the day, eighty!
The only birdie ‘2’ of the day was recorded by Masa Takano on the twelfth hole and Jesper Hansen picked up Rabbi’s free beer draw prize. The booby bevy went to Richard “Banjo” Bannister on his long awaited return after recording the day’s biggest split figures of eight and fourteen.
High season comes hand in hand with “silly” season at Eastern Star as an attempt to confirm future bookings was met with the response that every weekday both tees are booked for 150 Korean golfing visitors. Play there at your peril!
Wichai grinds out another win
The final Pattaya Golf Society competition of a tough week took place at Treasure Hill on Friday, 9th November. Following on from a long and soft Eastern Star and a very unprepared Pattaya Country Club, a stableford round at the “crocodile” course was something of a relief even though the course is undergoing some remedial work at present.
The course maintained its reputation as a tough challenge as scores struggled to reach par. In third place was Masanori Takano with 30 points and a consistent round of 31 points gave Richard Bannister second place. When the going gets tough there is no-one better than Wichai Tananusorn at grinding out a score and he was level par after seven holes and without the intrusion of a “wipe” on the twelfth he would have recorded a net level par round. As it was his 34 point return was more than enough to settle the result.
The only birdie ‘2’ of the day, on the thirteenth, was recorded by “rookie” Kiwi Alan Flynn, qualifying for a handicap and therefore he took the Booby Bevy as consolation. Rabbi’s free beer draw went to Alan also, proof if it were needed that the golf gods have a sense of humour as well as justice. Thus a tough week ended with smiles after events at Treasure Hill.

Paddy overshadows Jeff

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, Nov. 6, Treasure Hill - Stableford
First to Tuesday when we travelled North along Hwy 331 to the testing Treasure Hill, with a light breeze our only concession on a hot day. The course is still putting the finishing touches to some approaches to greens, but with clearly marked GURs & drop areas to protect them, it won’t be long & they will be 100%.

Paddy Devereux.
With a steady 36 points, it was Jeff Wylie (6) leading the way by 1, from the improving Dave Edwards (15), who was beaten after missing a short putt. Willem Lasonder (20) with 30 points was the best of the rest, and was well pleased with third spot and a near pin on #6. Dave picked up 2, (a nice birdie on #2), while Jeff got the remaining one on #17.
Thursday, Nov. 8, Mt. Shadow - Stableford
Thursday was a slightly longer drive to Mountain Shadow, again it was a hot day, with only a light breeze to take the edge off. While Treasure Hill is a tad on the long side, Mt. Shadow is the reverse, being well and truly on the short side, so with our policy of second back tee we played from the Blues at under 6,300yds. Despite its shortness the course has plenty of defenses, with tree lined fairways and undulating greens the most obvious.
Paddy Devereux (23) had a strong front 9 and hung on through the back to lead the way home with 33 points ahead of Jeff Wylie (6) who after a poor front nine battled back to finish with 31 points. Paddy also managed to pick up 2 near pins while Jeff & Clive each got one.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday, with ML hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we welcome all golfers, including Seniors who have opted for the “Silver” tee option. Call 089 094 1841 for scheduling or enquiries. Hope to see you there, cheers & good golfing!v

Mike Hill wins again

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, Nov. 5, Khao Kheow A & B (Yellow tees) - Stableford
CSS 73
1st Drew Miller (18) 35pts
2nd Erik Donnestad (4) 35pts
3rd Peter Skinner (10) 31pts
4th Johannes Murken (14) 31pts
5th Anna Donnestad (7) 30pts
5th Michael Izzo (5) 30pts
7th Phil Groves (7) 30pts
As ever, the courses at Khao Kheow played pretty tough and the scores on this day fairly reflected this and with only one counting player scoring within two of his handicap, the CSS for the day moved out to 73.

Mike Hill.
New member Drew Miller was the least unfazed of the field, going out at level and dropping just one point on the inward nine, which was good enough to take the top position following a count back with seemingly ever-present Erik Donnestad, which Drew won with a better 17 to 16.
Peter Skinner returned a much better back nine than his outward half to win a count back over Johannes Murken with a better 17 to 14 and collected third place.
Anna Donnestad, who has spent the whole of her holiday playing from tees which in many cases were two steps further back than she would normally be playing from, was again in that position but did well to place fifth over a distance some 1,400 yards longer than normal by topping a three-way count back with Michael Izzo and Phil Groves, also single handicappers, with 15 after Michael and Phil scores 13 and 12 respectively.
There were no 2’ in the second division but David Lowe and Johannes Murken shared the first division pot.
Before the presentations were made there were welcomes for Drew Miller and Murray Frost together with welcome backs for Michael Izzo, Waroon Taranski, John Wood, Peter Newham and Rodney Hayes.

Friday, November 9, Crystal Bay A & B - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Mike Hill (24) 40pts
2nd Erik Donnestad (4) 40pts
3rd David Lowe (7) 38pts
4th Phil Groves (7) 36pts
5th Karl Flood (16) 35pts
6th Peter Skinner (10) 34pts
A trip to Crystal Bay always promises to be a bit of a scoring fest as the wide open fairways and user friendly rough combined with extremely good putting greens gives a player ample opportunity to score well.

Drew Miller.
Mike Hill continued with his run of form to take the top spot and deny Erik Donnestad a farewell win after winning a count back over the last six, with a better 15 to 14 after they had tied the nine at 21 apiece. Erik’s score was commendable by being a gross level par which included 1 birdie, sixteen pars and one bogey.
Third place went to David Lowe who also had a remarkable round which could have been the winner but for a few lapses at vital moments as he carded five birdies but also included five one pointers and a blob to leave him two short of a count back for first place.
Phil Groves came back to a bit of form with a level handicap round to take fourth place with Karl Flood in fifth a point back and Peter Skinner in sixth a further one behind.
David Lowe, with two, and Phil Groves shared the first division 2’s pool while Karl Flood cleaned out the rollover second division pot.
Prior to the presentations there were welcome backs for Paul Stanton, Kazuo Takimoto, Seppo Sadeharju, Hisahiko Makino and Masami Tagaki. There was also a farewell for Erik Donnestad who was following his wife Anna, who had left earlier in the morning, back to Oslo after a very good golfing busman’s holiday, which raised a hearty round of applause, possibly more in relief by some who were thinking that it now offered them a much better chance of winning in the future.
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 8.15 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.

Outside bet Ken is first past the post

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
Back to the rainy season this past week, just when you think the worst is past, back it comes with a vengeance. All week it had been extremely hot and by mid afternoon the thunderstorms rolled in and the deluges began. In fact as I write it is hammering down outside. These conditions do not make it any easier for the golfers but looking at the scores this week the hardy souls of the TRGG managed to play through it and have posted good returns.

Ken Brehm - winner at Green Valley.
On Monday 5th November (Guy Fawkes night back in England) the guys (excuse the pun) headed off to play Eastern Star. Mike Rushant (H/cap 12) managed not to blow up his round and posted a winning total of 35pts to take first place. Jim McNeill (15) marched into second place with 34pts and Jim Cleaver (12) came third on 33pts.
On Tuesday 6th November I arrived at our home base at the Ned Kelly Bar bright and early only to find it full of Aussies eagerly awaiting the start of the Melbourne Cup (prestigious horse race down-under) on the big screen TVs. We were due to head off to Green Valley for a day’s golf but none of our betting contingent took the hint to back the eventual winner Green Moon. However Ken Brehm (22), a rank outsider, played a magnificent round to gallop into first place with 41pts. Yours truly, Andy Rich (21) stayed on to finish runner up on 37pts and Terry Smith (10) cantered into third with 36.
Thursday 8th November was Phoenix as usual (Ocean and Mountain courses). Steady Teddy Senior (14) rose from the ashes (sorry I have gone pun mad now) to fire into first position with 39pts. Bob Watson, playing off plus one, again showed what a good golfer he is by shooting 38pts and taking second on count back from Fergus Brennan (10).
On Saturday 10th November Crystal Bay (B and C courses) was the venue. Paul Stanton (14) returned to these shores to take first place on 37pts and Magnus Alvarsson (16) strode into runners up spot with 36pts.

Scribe singing in the rain

Phoenix Members Golf Society

Tuesday’s winners pose for a photo with the staff at The Relax Bar.

Mike Gerrard
What a strange day Tuesday, Nov. 6 was. We assembled on the first tee at Phoenix with a fine looking day ahead of us. Distant clouds and rumbles of thunder looked as if they would
not bother us at all. Think again Macduff!
We had managed to complete about half the course when the storm clouds descended on us. Never mind, we know from experience that these storms last about an hour at the most. This turned out to be true, but by this time about half of our group had given up and gone home.
When the storm abated the rest of the day turned out fine. The other amazing thing is that at the end of the storm any other course would have been closed. There were rivers running all over the place. The greens at one time were like large lakes. Within 10 to 15 minutes however most of the surface water had disappeared and apart from a few isolated places the fairways were completely playable. The drainage at Phoenix must be one of, if not the best in the area.
One nice sight was seeing the water hazard brook on Mountain #1 hole running a torrent of water. Good to wash all the debris away.
So, on we plodded and at the end of the day and back at the Relax Bar only a few of our group were around to receive prizes.
The winner today was your correspondent with 35 points, just edging Mukesh Thakker into second place (on count back). In third place with 32 points was Joris Goetschalkx and because we had some money left over Richard Baldwin was awarded fourth place with 30 points.
Near pins went to: Mike Gerrard and Jim Neilson with the other two going into the lucky draw. With The Relax Bar giving us two of the lucky draw prizes adding what was left meant that everyone received a luck draw prize as well.
It was nice to see Richard Baldwin back with us after a nasty bout of pneumonia. Seems a strange time of the year with many people suffering some form of illness or other. Get well soon guys.
Having Richard back meant also that he donated the main sponsor prize this week from Ann’s Salon. I will be going in soon for a nice makeover!
Next week we play for the KPK Food Services prize donated by our good friend Keith Keohane.
Now we are into the high season guests green fees are 1,000 baht for non-Phoenix members as a guest of the members, (Monday to Friday only). However, we limit our society to 6 groups maximum and minimum 28 handicap, and for men only.
For more information regarding golf and sea fishing call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565.

Aarnio wins by four at Pattana

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Pattana winners - Wilf Latham and Kari Aarnio.

Monday, Nov. 5, Pattana – Stableford
Heavy rain yet again here in Jomtien on the Sunday and as we journeyed up the 331 this morning there were some heavy clouds in the distance but as we arrived they have dispersed and we were in for a good day weather-wise.
For a change we were allocated the A and C nines and there was a sigh of relief from a few regarding not starting on the B course. There were two divisions out today with the cut at 16 in division 1 and 17 plus in division 2.
Kari Aarnio returned the best score of the day, winning division 2 with 42 points. Colin James took second four points behind and Colin Phillips was third on 36.
Wilf Latham was the winner in division 1 with 40 points ahead of Jerry Sweetnam in second on 36 and the Scottish boy Dennis Scougal third with 35.
No ‘2’s today in either division so one rollover in division 1 and three in division 2 to Bangpakong next Monday.
Friday, November 9, Eastern Star – Stableford
A couple of cancellations overnight and we were down to seven four-balls today and there was a warm welcome back to Paul Hartley, Roger de Jongh and Andres and Jef.
Comments after the round today indicated that the greens are still improving gradually each week and the fairways have dried out and the tyre tracks have disappeared.
Frank Kelly won division 1 with 37 points after beating Mikael Andersson on a 21/20 back nine count back while Chuck Anderson came in third with 34.
For no reason whatsoever, there were some very low scores returned in division 2 with 31 points winning it for Walter Weber. Rod Howett claimed second on 29 points and a new boy in the frame, playing off 20, John Walsh was third with 28.
Near pins went to Chuck Anderson, Billy Fitzgerald, Paul Hartley, Wilf Latham, Frank Kelly, Joe Kubon and Mike Lewis.
Chuck Anderson and Wilf Latham birdied the 17th and Paul Hartley and Mike Missler the 6th to split the ‘2’s pot four ways in division 1 while in division 2 there was a rollover to Eastern Star next Friday.
Finally our thoughts are with Ken Foster in the Bangkok Pattaya hospital and also to his wife Nom.

Cheese & Biscuits

The Backyard Golf Society

JJ (3rd left) celebrates his win with the staff as Kisses Bar.

Emerald golf course is quickly returning to a very good condition, so it was a hot but enjoyable round for the 11 Backyard golfers there last Friday. Several members succumbed to the heat, whether due to activities over the previous few days or returning from overseas the day before the golf? (A special mention to Gavin who had to “rest” after just 4 holes!)
JJ won the stableford again with 35 points, 2 ahead of Yaya’s fella and Irish John. Not one of the golfers managed to hit and stay on the near-pin green so that is rolled over to next week along with 1 skin. The other skins went to Yaya’s fella with 9, Danny the Skipper with 4, 2 to Tel and 1 each to Mike Taxi and Dan the diet whiskey man.
We then adjourned down the road for some cooling ales and Yaya’s fella provided a tray of cheese and biscuits at Kisses Bar before he heads off to claim the pension in Australia.

Pattaya 9-Ball Pool League

Results & Standings Nov. 7 (week 21)

Team Played Won Lost Pts.

Cheers 21 19 2 55

Buddy’s Bar 20 16 4 47

Simple Simon 21 13 8 39

Queen Vic 21 10 11 35

Irish Rover 20 10 10 33

Hotties 21 10 11 32

Roxy 21 10 11 32

Rioja 20 9 11 29

The Ranch 19 9 10 29

George n Dragon 20 8 12 24

FCUK 21 7 14 22

Moonshine 21 5 16 17

Results: Rioja P v P The Ranch, Irish Rover 7 v 13 FCUK, Moonshine 2 v 13 Roxy, George n Dragon 5 v 13 Hotties, Buddy’s Bar 4 v 13 Cheers, Simple Simon 13 v 9 Queen Vic

Kevin bags a brace

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday’s winner Roger Cross (left) with Colin Davis.

Sunday, Nov. 4, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kevin McEntee (7) 35pts
2nd Jeff Cordiero (8) 35pts
3rd Yui Bietry (10) 35pts
B Flight
1st Matt Doyle (13) 38pts
2nd Dave Boran (13) 37pts
3rd Norman Cheetham (15) 35pts
C Flight
1st Roger Cross (20) 39pts
2nd Keith McLachlan (25) 38pts
3rd Peter Henshaw (21) 36pts
Near Pins: No 4 John Bahng No 9 Yui Bietry No 9 Paddy Jordan No 16 Michael Prideaux.
A good sized turnout saw thirteen prizes handed out via three places in three flights and four near pins. Who said it was low season?
Roger Cross led Sunday’s mob with a C Flight winning and best on the day 39 points, and continued his warning to the society that he has his sights set on the November 11th Monthly medal. Keith McLachlan, who is dropping by with a little more frequency much to everyone’s enjoyment, was closely behind Roger with 38 points. A little fanfare please for Peter Don ‘Corleone’ Henshaw whose steady even par round closed the flight.
Turning to the premier flight and Co. Offaly ‘gang leader’ Kevin McEntee continued his fine play and won a three-way count back over Jeff Cordiero and Yui Bietry with a first place 35 points. It is hard to believe that the first time the scribe played with Kevin he was a struggling 20 handicap, many years ago. How did he become so good (hcp 7) and this scribe so lousy? Yui, a long time participant in the growth of golf in Pattaya, added another few more shekels to her purse while tacking the bronze behind Jeff’s silver.
The middling flight saw the quick return to the podium of yet another Co. Offaly gang man, Matt ‘Dillon’ Doyle. Matt’s 38 points was one better than the intrepid Dave Boran. Norman Cheetham managed 37 points and third spot in B Flight
Jan ‘the quite one’ Eriksen managed the only 2 of the day to take the extra large 2’s pot
Monday, November 5, Khao Kheow – Stableford
A Flight
1st Sugar Robertson (11) 36pts
2nd Jeff Clohessy (9) 35pts
3rd John Stewart (9) 35pts
B Flight
1st Norman Cheetham (15) 37pts
2nd Gerry Rafferty (17) 36pts
2nd Colm Mullen (16) 36pts
C Flight
1st Jim Elphick (25) 34pts
2nd Sean Soden (21) 32pts
3rd Joe Tynan (29) 30pts
A good sized field for any season took on the favourite of many - Pete Dye’s Khao Kheow. Norman Cheetham, who came third on Sunday, stepped up to the top step of B Flight and the day, as Norman was the only player to better par. Gerry Rafferty matched par and Colm ‘the right honorable’ Mullen but prevailed on count back to gain the silver.
Scotland’s’ Buckie boot boy’ Sugar Robertson attacked the Dye layout with nearly as much fervor as the B Flight boys, with a steady even par round. Jeff Clohessy, utilizing his trademark guile, slipped into second place with a count back victory over John Stewart.
Jimmy ‘two shots’ Elphick continued his way to the pay window and his C Flight winning 34 points ensured that the trip was worthwhile. Sean Soden quietly snuck in to second as Joe ‘Sat nav’ kept his head bent to accept the bronze.
Colm ‘Dead eyed Dick’ Mullen, a brace, and seven other players split the 2’s pot.
Wednesday,
November 7, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kevin McEntee (7) 35pts
2nd Francis Goyons (8) 33pts
3rd John Stewart (9) 32pts
B Flight
1st J-P Maffray (13) 39pts
2nd Gerry Cooney (17) 36pts
3rd Gerry Rafferty (17) 34pts
C Flight
1st Oen Torbjorn (31) 33pts
2nd Jonny Larsson (22) 33pts
3rd Brendan Dolan (19) 32pts
One never knows when he will strike, but J-P Maffray never keeps erm waiting too long. J-P’s 39 points was the best in B Flight and best on the day. He was also the only player to better his handicap. Irishman Gerry Cooney took the silver with a commendable even par round followed by fellow Irishmen Gerry Rafferty and Colm the right’ honorable’ Mullen tied on 34 points, the resulting count back left Colm satang less at sea level.
Kevin you know who had the best score in the senior flight with 35 points for the second time this week. Kevin has been offered a one-way ticket to a destination of his choice as long as he takes his two sidekicks with him.
Kevin was two shots clear of Francis Goyons as the latter picked up the flight silver. John Stewart, no stranger to the pay window, rounded out the flight a further shot back.
Nuff said about A Flight, we have C Flight left to talk about. Oen Torbjorn stood atop C Flight with a modest 33 points with the aid of a count back over Jonny Larsson, as Brendon Dolan tidied up the flight.
Francis Goyons, Michael Prideaux, Seamus Lanagan and Brian Cooper 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.

Doyle and McEntee bloom at 3rd annual Poppy Day Golf tournament

Tournament winners Matt Doyle and Kevin McEntee with the Chairman and President.

Derek Brook
Friday, November 9, Khao Kheow – 2-Ball Better-Ball Stableford
Like all good things in life, the idea came from a meeting of minds in Tropical Bert’s, in 2009, with Bert ‘The Sec’, Graham ‘The Pres’ and Derek ‘The Chair’ where we were discussing what to do during the coming Remembrancetide and Poppy Appeal. Of course then a few ‘cold un’s’ helped to clear the mind, and Poppy Golf was born. Now with the third one about to take place it was time for the volunteer of the three, me, to get the other ‘volunteer’, Max, and for the third time get this year’s Poppy Day Golf up and running.
One of the good things about already having a couple on tournaments on the book is that you have a record, and hopefully if it is good, the players will appear. So it was on this day and the sign-ups came in fast and furious, until on the morning of the competition we had close to 150 players. I suspect that playing at Khao Kheow, at a great rate, was much to do with it, and Max was beavering away to get the players in order. However, here I have to say thank you to Surapol and his staff who look after us all every Poppy Day, at Khao Kheow, they are ‘stars.’
A day such as this does not go on without weeks of work and good will from many of the golfers. Here, Max and I were well supported by the players of Tropical Bert’s in the run up, especially though to Daryl Evans, Mashi Kaneta, Dick Warberg and Keith Phillips. They added many of the items for the Draw, and also made my efforts much easier.
So to the morning of the tournament, and Max, Matt and Roy Fletton, were out there early putting the pins out and getting ready for the rush, and it started. With the first Tee-Time at 10 o’clock we had a two Tee start on the A Nine and the B Nine. I am pleased to say that we were off on time.
The course was in great condition and the greens, if a bit hairy due to the rain of late, were a test of the putter. The fairways actually also were a bit slow, and had little run but the rough was penal, I know I was there often enough.

Runners-up Mick O’Meara and Mike Phillips receive their prizes.

As we were the leading group, things went well and we found we moved very fast, in the circumstances. However, as we neared the end of the second nine the storm clouds started to gather, surely it wasn’t to rain on my parade, well, yes it was. With one hole to go, the heavens opened and it poured down and I had visions of having to walk in as it got really dark. For 30 minutes or so it continued and then slowly it brightened and turned into a lovely day. Mind, a few players did get wet.
Arriving at Amari’s Tavern By The Sea for the presentation, I was pleased to see the early golfers tucking into the buffet. It turned out that by starting the food early there were no queues and the feeding of the masses went extremely well. Indeed, the Amari staff are to be highly complimented for their professionalism and the care with which they treated us all night. Thank you Amari, especially as they are a major sponsor also. They also offered a great deal on the drinks which went down well, I think I remember.
The night continued and this really is a fine venue, but it was soon time for the scribe, and Chairman of Royal British Legion Thailand, to say his thank you to all who helped, namely: Khao Kheow for hosting the golf and Amari for their sponsorship and help with the presentation and buffet; Max and his team for their fine work not only on the day but during the build-up; Colin Davies andt Lewinski’s for their continued support and Chris Balzi for his fine shirts delivered on time; Giorgio at The Trattoria Italiana for continued support; the navy lads for the trophies, and last but not least to our President, Graham MacDonald, and the MBMG Group who are our biggest supporters.

The Chairman makes a special presentation to the major helpers of the event.

So onto the presentation, and as it was a ‘Big Do’ I think it only fair to mention the Technical winners. We had two fights for all the Technicals, 0-17 and 18 up.
Near Pins: (A Flight) A3 Mike Allidi, A5 Patrick Kelly, B3 Niza Numprarang, B8 Alan Mathesson Colin Monk, (B Flight) A3 Matt Cronin, A5 Eddie Bielby, B3 Bob Lindborg, B8 Colin Monk
Long Putts: A9 Max Bracegirdle, John Pirrel, B9 Mick O’Meara, Ploy Thongpen
So to the winners and first we presented to the ‘Strongest Team’ of Keith Phillips and Alan Lamb. They always give of their best and epitomise what the game is all about. Then to the winning teams and I have to say that the scores here were very realistic, probably because we placed the pins in the most difficult position on most of the greens and certainly on all par 3’s.
In fifth were Matt Cronin and Brian Cooper, losing out respectively on count backs to the team in fourth of Bob Lindborg and Ploy Thongpen, to the third placed pairing of Graham Buckingham and Andre Van Dyke, and also to the duo in second of Mick O’Meara and Mike Phillips, all with 46 points.
So to the winners, and coming in with a fine 47 points were Matt Doyle and Kevin McEntee. Well played gentlemen!
Before the draw, the Chairman presented Poppy Golf medals to those who helped him. It was then time for the draw and as Nigel Cannon and Mick O’Connor had so effortlessly sold the tickets, it was only fair that Nigel took the microphone and controlled it, where many fine prizes resided. Thanks to Nigel and Mick.
It was then time for the Scribe to relax with friends and listen to the trials, tribulations and triumphs of the day.

First group ready to tee-off.

A hive of activity at the first.

Golfers and partners enjoy the post-golf dinner buffet at Tavern by the Sea.

Pink Polo heads to Pattaya this weekend

Fast paced equestrian action and colourful attire are the hallmarks of Queen’s Cup Pink Polo.

The Queen’s Cup St. Regis ‘Pink Polo’ tournament will be held at the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club in Pattaya on Saturday, November 17.
Now in its 4th year, this much loved ladies tournament will bring together top female players from many countries who will compete on horseback for the 2012 Queen’s Cup whilst at the same time helping to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer.
In addition to the sporting activities, Queen’s Cup Pink Polo provides a popular social aspect with guests and spectators enjoying activities for all the family, including games at the sponsors’ pavilions, pony rides for the children, a fashion show on horseback, kids’ polo lessons and a junior polo match.
Jointly organized by Ninthinee Tanner, Thailand’s First Lady of polo and co-owner of the Thai Polo and Equestrian Club, and Dr. Kris Chatamra, founder and director of the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer, the event stresses pink as the colour of the day with the clubhouse all decked out in pink. Spectators are encouraged to wear pink to show their support for the fight against breast cancer.
A wide range of refreshment and food outlets will be on site to cater to spectators needs along with stalls selling the latest in polo fashion attire and commemorative products.
The event kicks off at 2.30 p.m. with guest registration and high tea, followed by the fashion shows and children’s activities. The main polo match will take place between 5-6 p.m. followed by the trophy presentation.
For more information, call 02 650 3055-7 or email [email protected].

Ladyboy water-volleyball tourney a huge success

Competing teams pose for a group photo.

Tony Sales
Both Buddhism and Christianity share generosity among their basic respective tenets. So with this in mind perhaps it’s not surprising that someone like me, a local farang expat, banded together with Pattaya’s ladyboys and bars, as well as some local restaurants and hotels to benefit Pattaya charities.
The first Pattaya Ladyboy Water Volleyball Competition, held Oct. 27, was a smashing success, raising over 280,000 baht for the Pattaya Orphanage/Children’s Home Foundation Pattaya (125,000) and the Rotary Club of Jomtien-Pattaya’s Water4Life project (100,000) with the balance going to yet another charity when final accounts are completed.
The Pattaya Orphanage plans to put the money raised by the tournament toward much needed repairs of the roof in the orphanage’s school for deaf children; given the severity of this year’s rainy season, the baht can’t come soon enough.
According to Rev. Fr. Michael Weera Phangrak, orphanage executive director, estimates to permanently fix the orphanage roof will cost 300,000 baht (the orphanage has been managing with temporary repairs until now). About 175,000 baht of this amount is coming in a pledge from the Thai Ministry of Education; the 125,000 baht remainder is coming directly from the proceeds of the volleyball competition.

Anaconda face off against Baby Boom in the final.

“I have to agree with you, that the Lord does indeed work in mysterious ways,” Father Michael told me when I visited the orphanage recently. “Just when we were wondering how we were going to cover the budget shortfall for the roof repairs, you come to us with plans for the volleyball tournament.
“It’s a commendable thing everyone involved in the volleyball tournament has done, not only helping us out but also raising awareness of the positive role that ladyboys play in our community,” he said. “Many might be surprised to know that ladyboys frequently visit the orphanage and contribute what they can to help the children.”
100,000 baht – will help fund the local Rotary Club’s Water4Life program, which provides water filtration systems for rural schools and remote villages. The Water4Life program’s share of the proceeds will cover water filtration costs for two villages that otherwise wouldn’t have access to clean, fresh water.
Rotary has been particularly supportive of the event right from the start. In fact its members were among the first to buy tickets to the event and many actually attended.
Why Ladyboy Volleyball? – It is different!
I came up with the idea for a ladyboy water volleyball competition earlier this year. I wanted to do something to give back to my adopted home town and country, as well as help change the community’s perception of ladyboys. I’ve lived here for some years now, and made friends with people from all walks of life – rich and poor, foreigner and Thai, and that includes many ladyboys.

The champion Anaconda team.

But one thing I’ve noticed is that transgendered women – kathoeys, or ladyboys as most people call them – often face prejudice brought on by stereotypes. It’s true that Thailand is much more tolerant and accepting of ladyboys than many Western cultures, but they still face a more difficult time in their lives than most people. Unless their families are supportive and can afford higher education, many have little choice but to work in bars or salons – like many Thai young people they are expected to supplement their family’s income. The fact that they face this prejudice is a shame, because I’ve found they are just like the rest of us and, are valuable assets to our community.
So when I began thinking about what I could do to give back to Pattaya, I also wanted to do something that would raise the profile of ladyboys and their contributions in a positive light, something that would be fun for everyone involved. Thus the Ladyboy Water Volleyball Competition was born and thanks to these ladyboys, two rural villages will now have clean drinking water and the Pattaya Orphanage can permanently repair its roof – the children can stay dry while they study!
But it wasn’t just the ladyboys; the entire Pattaya community embraced the event and a good time was had by both spectators and participants, including expats and holiday visitors from abroad, and for that I’m grateful. I hope we can make this an annual event, raising money on an annual basis for charities here and throughout Thailand.

Father Michael, Director of Pattaya Orphanage (left), receives a cheque for 125,000 baht from tournament organizers.

Forty ladyboys competed in the tournament held at the swimming pool of Areca Lodge on Soi Diana. The ladyboys came from seven bars around Pattaya including Anaconda (red), Baby Boom (white), Horny Bar (orange), La Bamba (gold), Pook’s (pink) Stringfellow’s (yellow) and TJ’s (blue). Several competitors also came all the way from Cocktails and Dreams (green), in Phuket, to compete with their Pattaya sisters as well.
The eight teams were divided into two groups/leagues and the winner of each group, based on games won and points, faced off in the final match to determine the champion team.
The Winner of Group A was Anaconda bar; they won all 3 matches in their group. Cocktails and Dreams made a great effort in Group A but were not able to challenge Anaconda.
The Winner of Group B was Baby Boom after a dramatic round where TJ’s bar needed Stringfellows to beat Baby Boom who also would need to score less than 21 points. Baby Boom held their nerve and won Group B.
Baby Boom went into a nail biting dramatic final of 3 matches. After 2 matches it was a draw, but Anaconda, using slam dunk serves, won the final match by the narrow margin of 2 points to become the undisputed World Champions of Ladyboy water volleyball. This is the first event of its kind anywhere in the world and, as such, should be in the Guinness Book of Records.
Following the final match there was a gala event for participants and attendees with a buffet at the Areca Lodge followed by the awards presentation and auction.

Carl Dyson, President of the Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard (left), is presented with a cheque for 100,000 baht.

During the awards presentation each of the participating ladyboy teams received a framed certificate of merit, with each frame in their individual team color, to mark their participation in the charity event. Certificates and the traditional symbolic big checks were also presented by organizers to Father Michael, Director of Pattaya Orphanage, and Carl Dyson, President of the Rotary Club Eastern Seaboard, respectively.
To all the generous sponsors, donors, the restaurants and the hotel, and of course the bars and ladyboys, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks: without all of you, this event not only wouldn’t have been a success, but wouldn’t have happened at all.
If you missed the volleyball tournament, and still want to help, you can obtain more information about making a donation by emailing [email protected].

La Bamba were presented with the ‘Best Dressed Team’ award.