Sea Fishing with Pattaya Sports Club

Our first trip in April, on Thursday 4th was on the “Game Fisher” out of Bang Saray with 5 regulars and one occasional member on board. In a stiff southerly breeze the skipper headed for the lee of Ko Khram for shelter from the roughest conditions. Even so, there and in various places along the Khram channel, the sea was still very lumpy at times. Perhaps it was because we could not get a bit further out, or maybe it was just the conditions, but we all spent the day catching rather small fish.
Dene shows off his prize catch.

At one stage it almost developed into a competition as to who could catch the smallest, and very many were returned to the waves. However, in the afternoon Dene suddenly felt a huge hit on his line, and pulled out a fine grey weighing in at almost 3 kilos. This, sadly, was the only significant catch of the day, and we all went home with specimens bound mostly for the ‘Tom Yam’ pot rather than the barbecue.

Paul did well on his first fishing trip with the group.

Tuesday April 9th was a much quieter day weather-wise, and a party of 7 went out on the Khram Marine boat. In very strong currents they had trouble finding the bottom at times, but managed to catch a few nice greys including the one pictured in the hands of newcomer Paul. Generally, apart from that the catches were not very exciting, but Charlie went home with a good ice-box full.
There are now no further trips planned for April, our next meeting is scheduled for Saturday May 4th, with further trips on Tuesday 7th, Saturday 18th and Tuesday 21st May. Bookings can be made via www.pattayasports.org/  or phone John O’Neill on 085 391 7045.

Pattaya 9-Ball Pool League

Results & Standings April 11 (week 16)

Team	Played	Won	Lost	Drawn	Pts,
Cheers	15	14	1	0	28
Party Girls	16	12	4	0	24
Buddy’s Bar	16	10	5	1	21
George n Dragon	14	8	5	1	17
Wet Bar	16	7	7	2	16
Legends Pool	13	7	4	2	16
FCUK	13	4	7	2	10
The Ranch	14	4	8	2	10
Queen Vic.	14	4	9	1	9
Simple Simon	13	3	8	2	8
Irish Rovers	14	3	10	3	7
Rioja	14	2	11	2	6
Results:  Buddy’s Bar 12 v 8 Party Girls, The Ranch 9 v 11 Cheers, Irish Rover 7 v 13 Simple Simon, Queen Vic P v P FCUK, Legends 12 v 8 Wet Bar, George n Dragon 10 v 10 Rioja

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Results & Standings April 9 (week 24)

Team	P	W	L	B/legs	Pts.
Irish Rovers	24	23	1	20	46
Mee Chew Sports Bar	24	17	7	12	34
Crazy Eddies	24	16	8	16	32
Biggy’z Rest	24	15	9	18	30
Londoner	24	15	9	13	30
Nervous Wreck	24	15	9	11	30
Yates Bar	24	13	11	16	26
Shoot Pool	24	12	12	11	24
Buffalo Jack’s	24	10	14	11	20
Jantha Coffee House	24	8	16	8	16
Mai’s Bar	24	8	16	6	16
Cum on Inn	24	7	17	8	14
W. Tankies	24	4	20	9	8
Results:  Bye 0 v 7 Jantha Coffee House, Buffalo Jack’s 8 v 7 W. Tankies, Londoner 5 v 6 Yates Bar, Mai’s Bar 4 v 8 Irish Rovers, Mee Chew Sports Bar 6 v 5 Crazy Eddies, Nervous Wreck 3 v 4 Biggy’z Rest, Shoot Pool 7 v 5 Cum on Inn

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: John, Sue, Tarja, La & Kari.

La Montgomery bowled a 228 game and 569 series to lead first place Indiana to a three-point win over Canada.
Café Kronborg won all four points from the Blind team and moved from third to second place. Nok Ostbo bowled a 537 series and Kran Nielsen a 519 for Kronborg.
Semper FI moved up from fourth to third place after winning three points from Jack Tar.
Brother D was led by Sue Murphy who bowled a 215 game and 560 series and Tue Pettae’s 534 to win all four points from VFW Post 9876. Aht Johansson bowled a 507 for VFW who dropped from second to fourth place.
Bavaria won three points from Green Tree. All six bowlers had trouble with lanes 19 and 20 and scores were not very good.
Spare bowlers had a good day as Kari bowled a 236 game, 558 series; Tarja had a 202 game, 52l series. John bowled a 233 game, 513 series and Eila had a 509 series. All these bowlers would be a great addition to the PSC Bowling league but they are not going be in country for a long period.

Results & Standings April 4 (week 15)
Pos.	Team	Score	Standings
1	Indiana	3-1	38 - 22
2	Café Kronborg	4 - 0	37 - 23
3	Semper FI	3-1	36 – 24
4	VFW Post 9876	0 - 4	35 - 25
5	Canada	1-3	33 – 27
6	Jack Tar	1-3	30.5 - 29.5
7	Green Tree	1-3	27.5 - 32.5
8	Bavaria	3-1	26 - 34
9	Brother D	4 - 0	25 - 35
10	Blind	0 - 4	12-48

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings April 3 (week 14)

Team	P	W	L	Diff.	Pts.
Legends Pool & Sports Bar	14	13	1	62	26
Irish Rovers	14	11	3	44	22
Mee Chew Sports Bar	14	8	6	36	16
Jantha Coffee House	14	8	6	20	16
Yates Bar	14	8	6	16	16
W. Tankies	14	5	9	-10	10
Mai’s Bar	14	3	11	-42	6
Results:  Bye 0 v 9 Irish Rovers, Mai’s Bar 0 v 9 Mee Chew Sports Bar, W. Tankies 7 v 2 Jantha Coffee House, Yates Bar 8 v 1 Legends Pool & Sports Bar

IPGC golf from Tara Court

Sat & Sun, April 6 & 7, Soi Dao - Stableford
Last weekend a few of us went to Soi Dao where we had the course to ourselves. On Saturday there was no one on the course and on Sunday just ourselves and a few Thais, not a Farang in sight.
Alec Hoare.

I am not surprised by the lack of players as what used to be very good value has now become expensive. They are no longer doing a package for the golf and the hotel, we had to pay for everything separately, and when you consider the journey and the quality of the hotel it is not worth it. Granted the course was in beautiful condition but it still is not worth the cost of the weekend.
Alec Hoare played very well both days with 40pts on Saturday and 35 on Sunday to win both days and the overall. Joe McArdle was second with 35 on Saturday and 32 on Sunday.
Tuesday, April 9, Crystal Bay (white tees) - Stableford
Today we were at Crystal Bay for a very enjoyable game of golf. The temperature had dropped considerably from the previous week, much more comfortable for playing golf.
The course was in excellent condition and very quiet so we got around quickly. Ted Morris, who is playing very well at the moment, was the winner with an excellent 39pts which included a four putt on the last par 3 and a no score. Joe McArdle was in second place with 34pts. There were no 2’s.
Thursday, April 11, Mountain Shadow (Blue Tees) - Stableford
We were back at Mountain Shadow today after a brief absence. Again much cooler than last week and we also got a heavy shower of rain and had to take a break for an hour until it passed over. The course dried out very quickly after the rain stopped and it was a very pleasant day for golf.
We had a new winner today; Phelim Moran was the man with 35pts which for this difficult course is a good score. Ted Morris had to settle for second place with 34 pts.
Note: The Tara Court Golf Group plays every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, leaving O’Gara’s Bar and restaurant in the Tara Court on Pratamnak Rd around 10.00 a.m. Sign up either in O’Gara’s or ring George on 087 540 0844 and he will book you in.

Bourke bags a brace of victories

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Friday’s top four (from left): Scott Golden, Peter LeNoury, Sugar Ray, and Paul Bourke.

Monday, April 8, Burapha - Stableford
With it being a holiday today, our numbers were swelled by many of the regular Pattaya Country Club guests and members as it seems their management (PCC) can’t see the wood for the trees and try to levy exorbitant charges to bolster their income from their already dwindling customers. Think again PCC, you haven’t got that many playing the course, don’t scare your loyal fans away!
We had a good field for the time of year, of some 33 here at Burapha, playing once again the unusual pairing of the A & C nines, because of the preparation work on B & D ahead of the Singha Open, which starts on the18th. Perhaps a slightly unfortunate choice of day as on Friday the viewing public will have no chance of returning to Pattaya due to the annual water throwing contest, which will grid lock the streets until late into the evening.
Jon Kittilsen posted the best score of 43pts to win Div C from two of the PCC raiders, Nigel Cannon (39) and Dave Earthrowl (36). 39-nine points were enough to win Div B for Tim Knight and one more, 40pts, took Div A for Paul Bourke.
Other notables were; Bob Finley (39), Andy Butts (37) and Capt’ Steve (36); also Barry Chadbourn, another PCC raider, who had 39pts but lost on count back to Tim and Mark Williams (38), who at last has come good with some excellent driving today.
There were three ‘2’s from David Earthrowl (A6), Paul Bourke (C5) and Andy Makara (C8).
Div A (0-15)
1st Paul Bourke (11) 40pts
2nd Bob Finley (14) 39pts
3rd Andy Butterworth (14) 37pts
Div B (16-21)
1st Tim Knight (21) 39pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (21) 39pts
3rd Mark Williams (19) 38pts
Div C (23+)
1st Jon Kittilsen (23) 43pts
2nd Nigel Cannon (24) 39pts
3rd David Earthrowl (23) 36pts
Tuesday, April 9, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Just a couple of groups here at Khao Kheow today (8 players) playing the B & C Loops, teeing off on time and getting round in a little over four hours.
Suzi was doing very nicely as the scores came in with 35pts but then General Jack reminded her that because of the difference in the rating between the red and the yellow tee, she had to reduce her handicap by two shots, when playing in the same comp. as men. But she still ended up in third, losing on count back to George Gardner (2nd) and the winner, Steve Plant.
Welcome to some new guys to the Outback; Morten from Denmark as well as Scott & Brad from Broom.
There were no ‘2’s.
1st Steve Plant (12) 33pts
2nd George Gardner (8) 33pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (17) 33pts
Wednesday, April 10, Siam Plantation - Stableford
A slightly reduced field of 12 here at Siam Plantation on A & B as a couple of the members here were heading off on the Outback’s extended Songkran trip, commencing in Chiang Rai; to check out the condition of the courses up there with a view to the regular October tour and also to play the new Happy City Golf Course, which reportedly has 29 holes (more on that story when they return).
Noticeably absent both playing today and on the plane to Chiang Rai, was Capt’ Steve who unfortunately cracked a couple of ribs as well collecting a few bruises after coming a bit of a cropper on his spiral staircase. He is ok but expected off the course for some time.
Generally some very good scoring with a couple of 39’s leading the way as Tim Knight (following his win at Burapha on Monday) got the better of Morten on count back with Steve Budrys (36) taking third ahead of playing partner, Tom Fitzpatrick (35) in fourth. It did take some time to work out these last two scores, with various alterations etc, but please everybody, try to mark you card clearly to make life a little easier for the scorers.
There were two ‘2’s, both from Ron Dickie (A6 & B7)
1st Tim Knight (21) 39pts
2nd Morten Christiansen (17) 39pts
3rd Steve Budrys (10) 36pts
4th Tom Fitzpatrick (13) 35pts
Wednesday, April 10, Bangpra - Stableford
The onset of the low season, signals the time for the Outback to return to the lovely Bangpra course; a complete “No No” in the high season with late tee times, players starting on the 10th and commonplace five hour rounds. Eleven Outbackers decided to give it a try after a break of seven months and it is a pleasure to report the course is in great condition and the greens are still slick, particularly if you have a downhill putt.
We teed off ahead of schedule and had the course to ourselves on the front nine but on the back we caught up a couple of slow four-balls which was a bit of a shame, however there were plenty of monkeys about to amuse us whilst we were waiting, especially when some of the dogs decided to chase them.
The scoring wasn’t brilliant as Andy Butts won the day with 35pts which included a 5-pointer on the par 5 fifth, as Andy knocked it on in two and holed the putt, with playing partner, Paul Greenaway having to settle for a par, however Paul still did enough to get second place with 34pts beating Stefan Hoge on count back.
There was one ‘2’ from John O’Keefe on the 12th.
1st Andy Butterworth (14) 35pts
2nd Paul Greenaway (10) 34pts
3rd Stefan Hoge (17) 34pts
Friday. April 12, Green Valley - Stableford
As Saturday (13th) is Thailand’s traditional New Year’s Day, there was some speculation that today was a holiday; it may have been in the government office and banks but it is pleasing to report that the Green Valley rates remained unchanged.
The next week can be expected to be chaos in Pattaya so the Outback will return to Green Valley on Sat 20th at 10am if anybody is looking for a game. On Friday 19th, we shall be at the Emerald but don’t make any plans to get back to Pattaya on Friday, because the roads will be gridlocked.
There was a very familiar ring about the leaderboards today; Paul Bourke (40pts), Peter LeNoury (39pts), John O’Keefe (35pts) and John Stafford (35pts) topped Div A and Sugar Ray (38pts) and Dave Coller (34pts) were in the top four in Div B.
Relative newcomer from Broome, Scott Golden took second in B with 35 and Stefan Hoge, warming up for the Chiang Mai trip next week, took third with 34, beating Dave Coller on count back. This was also Paul Bourke’s second win with 40pts this week, following on from Burapha.
There was only one ‘2’ from The Sugarman.
Div A (0-16)
1st Paul Bourke (11) 40pts
2nd Peter LeNoury (9) 39pts
3rd John O’Keefe (15) 35pts
4th John Stafford (16) 35pts
Div B (17+)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (17) 38pts
2nd Scott Golden (19) 35pts
3rd Stefan Hoge (17) 34pts
4th David Coller (22) 34pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

Hunter & Woody victorious at the Mountain

PSC golf from The Growling Swan

Mike Gosden, Stephen Newton & Frank Donnelly.

Peter Blackburn
Tuesday, April 9, Mountain Shadow – Stableford
A couple of late withdrawals and one late inclusion left us with 26 starters who were all keen to tackle the popular Mountain Shadow layout.
As we assembled at The Growling Swan prior to departure we were happy to welcome back Stephen Newton who is here for a couple of weeks R & R. It was sadly time to say farewell to Roy “Plums” Dayton and his lady Duangjai “Kae” Tusagad who will shortly be off to California for five months or so and good luck to Kae on her first trip out of The Kingdom.
Also departing is good friend J C Lhoste who is off to Monaco & then back to France, Eric “Judge” Black who is returning to Geelong Victoria shortly after Songkran and Jerry Dobbs & Brad “Bad” Todd who will soon be going back to OZ.

Dave Neal, Peter Grey & Shane Young.

As everyone arrived early we left the GS in 2 mini vans five minutes ahead of schedule at 8.25 am and after a 43 minute journey arrived at the course where it was very quiet. Time for a putt or two and various other methods of preparation we sent our first group away 20 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.40 am in fairly hot and sticky conditions.
With no-one in front of us for several holes we proceeded in a timely fashion and whilst enjoying the terrific layout which was in excellent “nick” we strolled through the front nine in two hours even. The greens were at their usual best and often caught out the golfer who ended up too far past the hole on the sloping greens.
A quick drink stop before the thirteenth tee managed to revive us in the ever increasing hot conditions and we managed to complete the full round of golf in just a tad over four hours. Great golf course, terrific company, but “bloody hot!”
We were able to have 2 Grades with five podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 19 and B Grade for 20 and over. We had nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
Making it two in a row was in form golfer Mike “Hunter” Gosden who won the A Grade with a fine 38 points. With 2 golfers on 37 points a count back was required and it was Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei (21 point back nine) who took second place from Bill McGarvie (18 point back nine ) in third spot. In a record “tight” count back where 2 people on 35 points, both scoring 19 points on the back nine and identical scores on each of the holes on the back nine with the exception of the 11th where Martin Todd’s four for three enabled him to secure fourth place from Suparp “Anna” Korboon, who scored five for two on the 11th.
Frank “Woody” Donnelly was once again victorious in the B Grade and won with 38 points, one point ahead of Duangjai “Kae” Tusagad in second place and Dave Neal was third with 36 points. In a count back for fourth & fifth with both on 35 points it was Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper (19 point back nine) just beating Jerry Dobbs (12 point back nine).
A Flight (0-19)
1st Mike Gosden (12) 38pts
2nd Alain Taddei (17) 37pts
3rd Bill McGarvie (11) 37pts
4th Martin Todd (9) 35pts
5th Suparp Korboon (9) 35pts
B Flight (20+)
1st Frank Donnelly (23) 38pts
2nd Duangjai Tusagad (21) 37pts
3rd Dave Neal (23) 36pts
4th Sandy Leiper (34) 35pts
5th Jerry Dobbs (23) 35pts
Near Pins: 5th – J C Lhoste, 8th – Wanta Dacha, 15th – Alain Taddei, 17th – Alain Taddei
Long Putts: 9th – Wanta Dacha, 18th – Ebrahim
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 won by returnee Stephen Newton who accepted the award in fine spirit. Martin Todd took Deefa for the usual walk and collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan golfers.
Thursday, April 11, Crystal Bay B & C – Stableford
The Pattaya Songkran exodus was starting to take its toll as our numbers were dwindling but we were still left with a field of 24 for this final event before the Songkran break. The popular Crystal Bay was the venue and we welcomed from Norway Roald Thorsen & Jon Haugen and also Bill Hewitt from Leeds, UK and his lady Samorn Tanamsri from Thailand.
Our 2 min vans departed the GS five minutes ahead of schedule at 8.25 am and after a fairly clear run north on Sukhumvit we arrived at our destination 43 minutes later. The course was not busy so there was no rush and we were able to send our first four-ball away 15 minutes ahead of our booked time at 9.45 am.
With just a three-ball in front of us there were no delays and our progress was quite good in the hot and steamy conditions, with the golf course being in great shape and the greens excellent.
After no rain for several months it was quite a surprise when the rain arrived after we had played the B nine and the greens started to flood giving us the thought that maybe our day could be over somewhat prematurely but as ever, after a 30 minute break before the C4 par three the weather cleared, the greens quickly dried out and we were able to continue without too much trouble.
The wet greens did take their toll in the scoring however and what with that and the continual struggle to keep one’s hands dry it was difficult for most to score well over the last nine. It was still very enjoyable though and even after the half hour rain stoppage the full round was completed in just on five hours.
We were able to have 2 Grades with five podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 26 and B Grade for 27 and over. We had nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
The adverse weather conditions did not seem to bother Dave Neal who easily won the A Grade with an excellent 41 points, 5 points clear of your writer Peter Blackburn in second spot. In third place came Canadian Bill McGarvie with 35 points and with two golfers tied on 33 points the resultant count back gave fourth place to Thientong Charoenrung (17 point back nine) with Samorn Tanamsri (13 point back nine) finishing fifth.
The winner of B Grade with 33 points was Shane “Jockey” Young and another count back was required to settle second & third spots as there were 2 people on 31 points. The result was that Wendy Bernek (14 point back nine) just pipped Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper (11 point back nine) with Fred Dineley finishing fourth on 30 points and Gordon Clegg rounded off the podium with 29 points.
A Flight (0-26)
1st Dave Neal (23) 41pts
2nd Peter Blackburn (11) 36pts
3rd Bill McGarvie (11) 35pts
4th Thientong Charoenrung (19) 33pts
5th Samorn Tanamsri (26) 33pts
B Flight (27+)
1st Shane Young (30) 33pts
2nd Wendy Bernek (30) 31pts
3rd Sandy Leiper (34) 31pts
4th Fred Dineley (27) 30pts
5th Gordon Clegg (27) 29pts
Near Pins: B4 – Samorn Tanamsri, B6 – Wendy Bernek, C4 – Mike Gosden, C7 – Thientong Charoenrung
Long Putts: B9 – Gordon Clegg, C9 – Bill Hewitt
The Growling Swan NAGA Award was well won by Growling Swan Mine Host Peter Grey, who naturally accepted the award in typical sporting style but vowed that his monopoly of winning this award was soon to come to an end – Good luck Peter! Martin Todd was absent so Mike “Hunter” Gosden took Deefa for the usual walk and collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our ever generous Growling Swan golfers.
Note: Growling Swan Golf, the home of friendly golf in Pattaya 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] 

Macintyre steps forward at Emerald

PSC golf from The Beaver Bar & Grill

Kevin Macintyre.

Friday, 12th of April found 19 truly dedicated golfers arriving at Emerald Golf Club in Ban Chang under threatening cloudy conditions and a promise of rain, with very high humidity. Kevin Macintyre took top honors this week with a fine 41 points and Roger Coe won nearest to the pin.
After golf, everyone returned to the Beaver Bar and Grill for some good food and cold drinks. Larry wishes to thank all for their continued support.

‘Judge’ rules at Eastern Star

The Billabong Bar Golf Group

Don Wilson (left) with Greig Ritchie.

Bob Philp
Monday, April 8, Eastern Star – Stableford
We travelled to Eastern Star today and after not having played there for a couple of months it was a pleasant surprise to see the course in such grand condition. Apart from the 13th green, which was still a bit under the weather, the rest were great to putt on.
The scribe can still manage to lose balls though as it is one tough golf course. Most Trent Jones courses give you bail out areas but not here - OB right, water left – it’s very difficult when you can’t guarantee a straight shot.

(Left to right): Bob Pearce, Doc Ward, Eric ‘the Judge’ Black, Wayne Harman and Stu Banks.

Anyway, everyone had a good day out even though the scores were ordinary to say the least. On a four way count-back, all on 31 points, in fifth place and getting a special prize kindly donated by Eric ‘Judge’ Black (a sleeve of Pro V1s) was Stu Bank. Fourth place went to Brian ‘Doc’ Vale, third to Bob Pearce, and second to Wayne Harman. On the top step of the podium was Eric ‘Judge’ Black with 33 points.
Once again there were no ‘2’s so all the loot went into the prizes.
Wednesday, April 10, Green Valley - Stableford
Our normal trip down 36 to Green Valley turned into a detour to St. Andrews because of a tournament on at the former course - very nice indeed as we haven’t played at St. Andrews for a long time. The course was in great shape with lightening fast greens and plenty of grass on the fairways. It was a pleasure to play here.
With only a small group we got away on time and had an enjoyable day out. There was one player who took the course apart and he was head and shoulders above the rest of the field. Greig Ritchie with 39 points was that player and he could have scored even better if some of the short putts he should have got had dropped. Anyway, he was the winner by 6 shots over Owen Walkley on 33 points in second, while Bob Finley was third with 32 points.
Again there were no ‘2’s recorded on the day.
Friday, April 12, Pattana - Stableford
For a change we went to Pattana for a game, what a course and what great condition for the special Songkran price of 1,500 baht all inclusive! Even though the rain threatened it didn’t eventuate and we all got round in 4 hours or less. The leading team of Greig Ritchie, Jeff North, Helmut and Don Wilson got around in 3 hours flat after being called through by a group on the tenth tee.
Playing from the white tees it was a bit long for some of us as there were some holes you couldn’t make the green in 3, let alone 2 shots! But Greig Ritchie backed up his win on Wednesday with a fine 34 points here today to take the honours over Jeff North and Bob Pearce respectively, both on 33.
There was only one ‘2’ today, coming from Don Wilson.
Note: If you are looking for a game with a friendly bunch of golfers, give Bob a call on 082 204 3411 or call into the bar just off Siam Country Club Road, looking straight down Lake Mabprachan.

Baechli storms home at Burapha

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday winner Derek Brook (left) celebrates with Dick Warberg.

Derek Brook
Tuesday, April 9, Bangpra – Stableford
Well it looks like the ‘low season’ is well and truly underway as the Sports Days come back into fashion at the ‘premier’ courses and we, the peasants, are able to play them. So after Khao Kheow last week we were off to spoil ourselves at Bangpra. Mind, we will have a halt in play as that well know local phenomenon takes place and we take cold baths in the street in our clothes. We even get free powder. Woe is me!
So for our last Tuesday of freedom, for a couple of weeks, and off we went to Bangpra to be met with a nearly empty parking area, and a smooth book-in, not even any sitting around until 1000 hrs. So a quick change and it was soon onto the first tee, to find that we could get straight away.
Those who have played Bangpra know that it is the ‘original’ course on The Eastern Seaboard and as such has matured very well. We even have our own troop of monkeys, that is one troop for every player and much fun can be had chasing your golf ball. On this occasion the monkey was only a little baby one, so after a short chase I managed to get back my ball. Do not leave anything unattended.
So the course was fine, in great condition, and I think that says it all. The greens were as quick as any we have played, mind, not as fast as they used to be a few years ago. So off we went and all went well until well into the back nine, then we met the five-ball that teed off at 0800hrs and things slowed down. I didn’t bother with the ‘Bangpra ice-cream’, building up to it slowly like the 5-ball!
Back at Bert’s it was soon time for the presentation and as we had arrived back early we were able to do the results a bit earlier than normal. The winner with 35 points was your scribe, Derek Brook, with a handicap that can only be called really good, because he won ahead of a three-way count back on 34 points that saw Dick Warberg in second, A.V.D. in third and Walter Baechli in fourth. I think I can get used to this handicap, even though I never had one so high in 25 years. Watch this space!
Near Pins: Walter Baechli (2)
Thursday, April 11, Burapha – Stableford
There were small numbers on the day due to the annual migration from Pattaya. We were playing on a Thursday as the Friday was a Holiday with weekend rates and we also wanted to avoid the traffic mayhem in Pattaya during Songkran.
The sky was cloudy as we reached Burapha, but not having any rain on our golfing days out for many months it was straight to the first tee and away we went. The test for the day was to be the A & C Nines as Burapha was hosting the Annual Pattaya Singha Open the following week and the B & D Nines were being readied for the event.
Due to it being a ‘Sports Day’ and a great rate for the course, and the closure of the B & C Nines, the place was pretty busy and the pace of play was on the slow side. Several tricky pin positions did nothing to improve the pace as many three-putts at best were in most players games. Umbrellas were needed for a short time about half way around due to a brief shower, and again as we finished the 18th, as a fairly strong thunder storm descended on the area.
All finished however without delay and it was into a welcoming shower and a bite at the restaurant as the results were tabulated. The results were good despite some earlier grumbling about using the longer blue tees.
Soon back at Bert’s it was time for the ‘Great British Pie’, thanks Bert. Then into the results and the winner with a fine 40 points was Walter Baechli, with Noel Pittard in second on 36 points, Brian Parish in third with 35 and Max Scott fourth with 34. T.T.F.N.

Habgood shoots low for medal glory

PSC golf from the Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Monday, April 8, Greenwood A & B – Stableford
Another holiday today, but when we arrived at the course it was surprisingly quiet, and we were able to tee off without delay. The sky was overcast, but the weather remained fine all day and a breeze developed on the inward nine, which made the conditions even more agreeable. The greens on the outward nine had been recently cored, and were consequently bumpy and slow, but the inward nine were quicker and better.

Peter Habgood.

The first 3-ball of Gerry Cooney, John Graham and Tony Robbins were making good progress until the 6th hole when they caught up with an elderly group of Korean golfers (surely they couldn’t have been older then Gerry and Tony!) and they were then forced to complete the rest of the round at a snail’s pace.
Neil Hurst was playing his last game before returning to the U.K. and went out in style (more than you can say about the trousers he normally wears!) taking the honours with 37 points. Steve Dury took second place ahead of John Graham who beat Mark West on a count back which went down to the last hole.
1st Neil Hurst (12) 37pts
2nd Steve Dury (17) 35pts
3rd John Graham (11) 34pts
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney, Tony Robbins and Colin Greig (2)
Least Putts: Steve Dury and Tony Robbins (27 each)
Wednesday, April 10, Green Valley – Stableford
We had a good turnout today for our first medal competition of the month, at the always popular Green Valley course. The weather was hot and humid, but not nearly so scorching as last week. The course was generally in good condition, with a few worn patches evident, but the dry conditions meant there was plenty of run on the ball.
The pace of play on the front nine was good, and then our first group arrived on the 10th tee to find 4 groups waiting there, as a Thai airforce competition had been allowed to start simultaneously from the 1st and 10th tees. Once we got going again the pace was reasonable and all in all, a good day was had by all.
Five players managed to better their handicaps, but no one could come close to Peter (“I hate medal competitions”) Habgood, who managed to win his second medal competition in a row! Peter was four shots clear of “occasional raider” Al Collinge, and Mark Stanley took the third place on the podium beating Colin Greig on a count back. Usually one of the more consistent players with the Bunker Boys, Colin shot 5 over on the final four holes to slip out of contention.
Al Collinge only hit one green in regulation all day (winning a near pin!), but he got up and down from everywhere, taking a miserly 9 putts on the inward nine to give him a 24 putt total overall – a new record for the Bunker Boys.
1st Peter Habgood (22) net 65
2nd Al Collinge (15) net 69
3rd Mark Stanley (11) net 70
Near Pins: Al Collinge, Colin Greig Geoff Hart and Steve Dury.
Least Putts: Al Collinge (24)
Friday, April 12, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Fifteen golfers today set off from The Ranch to tackle the difficult Treasure Hill course. There’d been a heavy storm the previous day which had knocked down a large tree near the practice green, and had also prevented the ground staff from cutting the fairways. The greens were in good shape though, and the rain had settled the sand in the bunkers, so there weren’t as many plugged balls as we’ve become accustomed to.
There’s always a debate when we play here, as to whether we should play off the yellow or white tees, and today it was left up to Gerry Cooney in the first group and he elected to play off the shorter yellow tees. This certainly suited William Macey, who took a day off from his PSC charity duties, to tear the course apart. Tore Eliassen was in second place with 39 points, a score which would normally be good enough to win here, but not with William in the field. Gerry Cooney pipped Colin Greig on a count back to take third place.
The weather had been good, but a thunder storm arrived after all but the last group had completed their round, but they’d lost two holes on the group in front, so som nam na guys!
PJ provided the after game entertainment by locking his keys in the car after loading his clubs, (second time in recent memory) and eventually decided to break a window to solve the problem – giving his passengers a breezy drive back to Pattaya!
1st William Macey (20) 42pts
2nd Tore Eliassen (15) 39pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (13) 35pts
4th Colin Greig (10) 35 pts
Near Pins: Alan Sullivan, Geoff Cox, Gerry Cooney and Tore Eliassen.
Least Putts: Colin Greig (29)
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. 

Pat’s back on top

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Pat Regan and Ian Halfpenny.

Sunday, April 7, Green Valley - Stabelford
A Flight
1st Pat Regan (12) 39pts
2nd Ian Halfpenny (13) 39pts
3rd Gary Blackburne (9) 38pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (17) 38pts
2nd Brian Vale (21) 37pts
3rd David Foulk (20) 35pts
Near Pins: No 4 Freddy Starbeck, No 9 Kevin McEntee, No 12 Peter LeNoury, No 16 Jim Bell.
A Flight played like the premier players they are as they led the day with two steady 39 point outputs. It was hard luck to Englishman Ian ‘lose change’ Halfpenny as his 39 points only provided him with the second place lucre thanks to a count back defeat to Irishman Pat Reagan.
Every body’s nice guy Garry Blackburne was left with the third place scraps despite a fine 38 point tally. Neil Hurst and ‘Broad more’ Bob were unlucky with 37 points apiece.
The Donkey must be getting his fair share of his oats as his solid 38 points took the top spot in B Flight. The Donkey was one stroke clear of Brian Vale and a further two of a triumvirate (that’s four Jimmy) of David Foulk, Freddy Starbeck, Dave Boron and Chaten ‘the rajah’ Patel. When the divots had settled it was Mr. Foulk who had the biggest smile.
Terry Mangan, Kevin McEntee, Peter LeNoury, Colin Davis, Dave Boran and Jim Bell shared the 2’s pot.
Finally the society would like to wish Mike ‘the mechanic’ Craighead a very happy 80 years young birthday.
Tuesday, April 9, Pattana C&A - Stableford
A Flight
1st Pat Regan (12) 34pts
2nd Barry Copestake (6) 34pts
B Flight
1st Tom Gorey (22) 33pts
2nd Kim Anderson (18) 33pts
One can’t overlook the fact that the low season is upon us, however the golfing numbers are sufficiently robust that a glowing performance should be out there every week. Alas it doesn’t seem that such was the case this week (save a two winning podium appearance by Irishman Pat Reagan). So in this era of the almighty baht (no longer the almighty $ given the current exchange rates), this scribe is in a manner consistent with the stadiums throughout the UK and the front of every soccer jersey will be putting the title spot of uninspired play up for lease to the highest bidder.
Well enough of the diatribe on with the golf. Both A Flight and B Flight went to a count back to decide the two podium spots up for grabs. A Flight’s title boy Pat Regan took the top spot as his inward tally was more favorably dispersed than Barry ‘the boot’ Copestake’s as both carded 34 point returns.
B Flight was headed by another ‘Mick’ as Tom Gory did the same to Kim Anderson, both locked on 33 points.
Steve Gibson slotted home the only 2 of the day.
Wednesday, April 10, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Jim Reid (28) 42pts
2nd Terry Mangan (13) 37pts
A small but talented group turned out to play the tough Bangpra course. And it was Jim ‘well come to my world’ Reid who was a most ecstatic man of the match as he tallied a remarkable 42 points to put a fair sized dent in his handicap. Terry ‘pork chop’ Mangan’s 37 points (excellent on this course any other day) seemed a bit common but it did provide him with the silver spot.
No 2’s so it’s a rollover on Friday.
Friday, April 12, St. Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (13) 36pts
2nd Freddy Starbeck (17) 36pts
B Flight
1st Rex Chapman (31) 33pts
2nd Jim Reid (28) 32pts
It is not unusual that the field was challenged by Desmond Muirhead’s designed St. Andrews and that no one bettered their handicap. The course is a very tough challenge, especially to the high handicapper and supports a couple of devilish par 6’s, and is generally considered the toughest track in the area.
Tenacity and perseverance can count for a lot on a course like this and those are the attributes displayed by Pierre ‘the magician Bietry and Freddy Starbeck as they bested the field with extremely fine even par rounds. The ‘Magician’, as he so often does, took the count back just like that.
In the saner B Flight, Rex Chapman with 33 points was top man while Jim ‘I’m getting better’ Reid continues to impress as he garnered the silver a shot in arrears.
Pierre added a 2 to his purse along with Jim Reid.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya land Soi 1, Beach Rd Soi13/13 near 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.

Newbert nets some nice numbers

PSC golf from The Golf Club

John Coetzee, Phil Newbert and John Emmerson.

Steve Ellison
Monday, April 8, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford
1st John Coetzee (17) 42pts
T2nd Mike Newbert (13) 38pts
T2nd Ken Aihara (5) 38pts
T2nd John Emmerson (13) 38pts
By the time you read this, we will be long gone from the water madness of Pattaya and up in the clean fresh air of Khao Yai at 1,200 feet elevation and playing some great golf courses and completely dry. At this point, you will be fairly well drenched and wondering just why the heck you didn’t join us, so remember this for next year!
The hot weather is finally having an effect on the golf courses around Pattaya, and spots of brown are now appearing, with the inevitable tight lies to go with it. Green Valley is holding up better than most and the one benefit we see are longer drives due to the harder fairways.

Nat, Koy, Brian and Ying play Songkran.

It was a clusterblock at the 38-point mark with 3 golfers in a tie for second. On any other day, that could have been good enough for the win, but not with today’s line-up. Emmerson, Aihara and the Montauk Mauler Mike Newbert could not birdie the last and the trio came home with a very respectable score of 38 Stableford points for joint second.
However, one golfer rose to the occasion and tore up the course with a fantastic 4-stroke lead over the rest. John Coetzee shot one of his best this year and put a big red 42 on the top of his card to take top dog honours. It looks like John is timing it just right to go on the Songkran Khao Yai trip at the peak of his game. Best score over the 4 rounds up there gets the Man of the Mountain title, and John has got to be a guy in the hunt. Well played Mr. Coetzee, and good luck in Khao Yai!
Wednesday, April 10, Royal Lakeside (white tees) - Stableford
1st Mike Newbert (13) 41pts
2nd Brett Chan (14) 40pts
3rd Ken Aihara (5) 35pts
It never, ever ceases to amaze me how some guys (usually retired, single, and plenty of free time on their hands) think that driving an extra 15 minutes up the highway is going to ruin their whole day. Yes, Royal Lakeside is one of the furthest courses on our playlist, and so what? What else are you doing that’s so important? Are we making you late for your meeting with Donald Trump or something? Jeez boys, sit back and relax in our van and chill out on the stress factor. As Mr. Hogan said, stop and smell the roses on your round. Crikey, that drives me nuts!
Anyway, we got out there to one of the best courses we play and also one of the best value venues on our itinerary. Royal Lakeside is still in great condition, and the lads who joined us had one heck of a good day out there. We had a vanload of golfers and three tee times for an intimate golf comp for a change.
It was the usual suspects who once again who delivered the goods and are finishing their latest trip to Pattaya on a high. Montauk Mauler Mike Newbert added to his second on Monday with a great win today on 41 and squeezed out Brett Chan a shot behind with 40 points. It was a great, close comp that went down to the wire and both lads laid down some terrific golf shots. See ya next time guys, have a good summer back home and keep it in the fairway!
Friday, April 12, Greenwood A & B (white/silver tees) – Stableford
1st Brian Prudden (19) 37pts
2nd Peter Hynard (12) 35pts
3rd Ken Aihara (5) 33pts
He’s baaaack! The Silver Fox returns once again to wreak havoc here at TGC. With his lovely better half Marlene, Brian returns to enjoy the Pattaya lifestyle for another month from their home in Mandurra, just outside of Perth, Australia. He has started out in fine form and will also be with us on the Khao Yai trip, which he dominated last year. Well played to you Brian, that is great going for your first round back in Thailand!
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We usually play on Monday, Wednesday and Friday so come join us for a seriously fun day out. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya.com  and for more information mail us: pattaya4golf@gmail.com   and see updates at www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya...   all handicaps welcome!

Tough times at Treasure Hill

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Tuesday, April 9, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Tuesday was our monthly visit to Treasure Hill, under sunny skies with the course in good condition. Several of the greens had been lightly sanded, making them very hard to hold & speedy if putting from above the hole.
Making the best of the conditions was Brian Maddox (22) who signed off with 32 points. KurtErik Persson (23) was next best a point behind, while Jeff Wylie (6) struggled to be the best of the rest with 29 points just edging Clive Hoseason (21) on count back 15/14.
Near pins were spread around between Mham, Graham & Jeff.
Thursday, April 11, Mt. Shadow - Stableford
Thursday’s venue was Mountain Shadow from the blue tees, at just under 6,300 yards, with the course in good condition. We started off under clear skies, but early on the back 9 a storm rolled in resulting in several greens being rendered temporarily unplayable. After a 30-minute (or so) wait the conditions improved, so on we went.
Owen Walkley (10) dealt with the conditions and the course best, finishing with 35 points, ahead of Tom (10) with a moderate 32 points. Tom also did well winning 2 near pins, with Owen & Jeff each scoring 1.
Note: Rendezvous Resort, Restaurant & Bar plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday, with the bar hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we welcome ALL golfers, including ladies & 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!

Head makes short work of Eastern Star

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, April 8, Eastern Star - Stableford
It was a public holiday today so we were at Eastern Star for a fun 36-hole competition spread over two days, taking in Friday as well. There was an independent game over two days for two divisions but a combined individual score for the Monday and Friday comps. There was a field of 28 players out today with the cut at 5-16 and 17+ in division 2.
We were all playing off the yellow tees today for the first time ever and with a 475 yard differential there were some amazing scores coming in. Playing off 17, Don Head won division 2 with 46 points ahead of Tim Hake in second with 38 and the organiser beat Iain Walsh on a 20/17 back nine count back for third after they both shot 37 points.
Wichai Tanunsorn topped division 1 with 38 points and Chris Voller beat Frank Kelly and Jerry Sweetnam on a 21/20/19 back nine count back to come in second with Frank in third place.
Ted Gardner birdied the 3rd, Martin Grimoldby the 17th and Kari Kuparinen the 3rd as well to split the ‘2’s pot in division 1. In division 2, Tim Hake was smiling after his birdie on the 13th and with an even greater grin was Iain Walsh who birdied the 3rd and 13th, it is so easy off the yellows.
Near pins went to Ted Gardner, Martin Grimoldby, Frank Kelly, Wichai Tanunsorn, Don Head, Colin Phillips, Sasha Pole and Iain Walsh.
Wednesday, April 10, Phoenix - Stableford
The low season has now kicked in with many of our players going back and a few returning for the Hua Hin trip for the second week of May, but we still had 27 out today, seven groups playing the Mountain and Lakes courses as the Ocean is closed for renovation.
It was another very hot day with hardly any breeze and people were exhausted as they returned after 18 holes.
Living on the Lakes course and a member here, Ian Speirs returned the best score of the day playing off 16 and winning division 1 with 39 points. Chris Voller was in second place five points behind and Uli Bangerter beat Bryan Rought and Dennis Scougall for third on a 17/17/16 back nine count back, and a 12/10 on the back six, after they all came in with 33 points.
There were no ‘2’s in division 1 but three players split the quadrupled rollover pot in the second division; Gordon Everingham, Neil Gamble and Colin Phillips.
Near pins were claimed by Kari Kuparinen (2), Dennis Scougall, Colin Phillips, Sasha Pole and Chris Slota.
Friday, April 12, Eastern Star - Stableford
Round two of the 2-day fun game and there were a few more players creeping back due to the improving condition of the course, especially the 13th and 18th greens. Indeed, there were a few comments saying they could not believe the difference after not playing here for a few weeks.
On the drive here today the clouds were getting darker and heavier and as we arrived we held back on the green fee purchase for 30 minutes until we knew what the outlook weatherwise was going to be. The local thoughts from the caddies and the marshalls were of no rain today and we played around 15 holes under a heavy cloud covering before the sun broke through, but no rain at all.
Playing off 12, Jerry Sweetnam, the motor bike fanatic who drives to every course, won division 1 with 37 points. Ted Gardner was second one point behind and Paul Butler, back for four weeks from his holiday job, beat Tony Oakes and Chris Voller for third on a 18/18/15 back nine count back with a 12/11 on the back 6 after they all scored 32 points.
Joe Kubon was the winner in division 2 with 34 points and Tim hake beat Rodney Howett 20/14 on the back nine for second spot after they both scored 31 points.
Paul Butler and Karl Flood birdied the 17th to share the ‘2’s pot in division 1 while a rollover ensues in division 2 to next Friday.
Near were claimed by Paul Butler, Frank Kelly, Kari Kuparinen, Marty Rock, Rodney Howett and Iain Walsh.
In the other prizes - two divisions on each hole sponsored by the rollover kitty plus the two day game: 1st Hole nearest the pin in 2 shots went to Marty Rock and Tom Novak; 8th Hole nearest the pin in 3 shots was won by Bill Bertram and Darryl Blair; 11th Hole nearest the pin in 3 shots to Don Head and Tim Hake; 12th Hole nearest the pin in 2 shots, Ted Gardner and Tim Hake; 18th Hole longest drive went to Kari Kuparinen and Tom Novak.
Finally, to the results of the 36-hole competition over two days with yellow tees on the Monday and white today: In first place was Jerry Sweetnam with two 37’s for a combined 74 point total, second place went to Ted Gardner with two 36’s (72), third to Don Head 46+25 (71) and in fourth was Joe Kubon 36+34 (70).

Scribe scrambles to podium success

Phoenix Members Golf Society

Friday’s winners.

Mike Gerrard
Wow it’s getting hot as the days move closer to the dreaded Songkran time! However, as described before, at Phoenix we seem to enjoy a nice breeze coming in from the sea. It most certainly is the time of the year to use caddy carts. The guys who challenged the course by walking were all looking a little frazzled (or fried) as they struggled up the stairs to the locker room after the game on Friday, April 5.
Yours truly managed to return the best card of the day with a scrambled 34 points to win the KPK Food voucher. It was a welcome return to the podium after a couple of months playing awful golf. It comes and goes for everyone eventually.
In second place was the other scrambler of more renown, Peter Harris, with a mere 31 points, and in third place was that ever so consistent player Clive Robinson with only 30 points, beating off Steve Hamstad by a better back nine.

Tuesday’s winners pose with staff at The Relax Bar.

Our near pin winners today were Pierre Bietry, Mike Gerrard, Thierry Petrement & Jim Neilson.
The free massage voucher (donated by our hosts The Relax Bar) was won by Tim Mason with the free drink (also donated by the Relax Bar) awarded to new comer Jan Svensen, with Richard Baldwin winning the consolation lucky draw prize.
All in all it was a great day, with a good crowd of guys and no one over 18 handicap in the field.
On Tuesday, April 9, we welcomed an old friend from the past in the shape of Fred May and I think due to his unawareness of the trickiness of our greens he played less inhibited than the rest of us to claim the first prize with a score of 34 points. It seems under par golf is scarce these days, and little wonder when you try chipping and putting on our ever so slick greens. That’s where it’s won and lost!
In second place today was Stuart Gordon with the same score as Fred but with an inferior back nine, and edging John Bartley out of the prizes was Patrick Browne with 33 points and again a better back nine.
Near pins went to Stuart Gordon, Bill Hewitt,(2) & Joris Goetschalckx.
The free massage lucky draw was awarded to Bob Neylon and the free drink went to Peter Harris, both these lucky draw prizes were donated by our hosts The Relax Bar. The consolation lucky draw prize went to Tim Mason - he seems to do well in the lucky draw these days.
For further information regarding either golf at Phoenix or sea fishing trips, please call me (Mike) on 087 091 7565.

Simpson shoots the lights out at Phoenix

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
In the week leading up to The Masters at Augusta you might well expect the golfing fraternity to put in some inspired performances and the TRGG stalwarts did not disappoint. The scores posted this week were quite amazing and it was only on Friday that they dipped below par, perhaps because they had all stayed up half the night watching the pros battle it out.

Seamus Farrell.

On Monday 8th April at Mountain Shadow, for some reason I can’t explain, the field was divided into two divisions; very strange as there were only twenty participants. Div. 1 was for up to 12 handicap and Div. 2 was 13 handicap and above. Dave Edwards (11) got the week off to a splendid start by posting 39pts and walking off with the Division 1 first prize. Craig Hitchens (12) was second on 37pts and Neil Bramley (9) with his reverse handed grip made third place with 36.
Division 2 was headed by Seamus Farrell (29) on an astounding 40pts. I don’t know what Seamus has been drinking this last six months but his handicap has been dropping like a stone. For a man well into his seventies he is like a man on the fast track back to his youth. Well done Seamus and can you give me the recipe. Jim McNeill (16), another well past the first flush of youth, posted a commendable 38pts to take second place and Gerald Halferty (25) finished third on 32pts.

Larry Simpson.

On Tuesday 9th April the TRGG headed off to do battle at Khao Kheow (B and C courses). Another Irishman, Michael Maguire (19) of indeterminate age but won’t be seeing fifty again, kept up the excellent scoring by shooting 39pts and taking the No. 1 spot. Old reliable Mike Rushant (11) slipped into second with 38pts, beating Dave Edwards (10) into third on count back.
On Thursday 11th April it was back to Phoenix (Mountain and Lakes) for the TRGG regulars. Now I can only guess that Larry Simpson (12) has managed to get hold of Seamus Farrell’s recipe because he headed the rest of the field by shooting a truly remarkable 43pts. Seamus Farrell (27) could only manage second place on this occasion with 38pts. This does of course mean a further cut by the handicap committee. Mike Rushant (11) again made it into the places by taking third on 35pts.
It was off to Pattana for the TRGG on Friday 12th April and as stated, the champagne scoring of the previous three competitions went a little flat. Nevertheless, Neil Bramley (9) won’t mind finishing in first place on 34pts. Noel Pittard (7) made it into to second place on 33 and Michael Maguire (18) put in another good performance finishing third on 31.
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week!

Close calls at Emerald

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

On Wednesday, 10th April the Pattaya Golf Society travelled to Ban Chang to play a stableford competition at Emerald, in two flights with the cut at thirteen and under. The day was fine and the course clear at tee off time and good progress was made on the popular course.
In the top flight Wichai Tananusorn shared third place with fine Canadian golfer Brian Beaupre, making his final appearance with the group this trip, both returning 35 points. Martin Grimoldby showed his class with gross figures of 75 giving him 37 points and a share of the win with Robbie Taylor.
In the second flight Ken Grimes took third place with a steady 36 points, one behind the runner-up Dave Lehane who is striking a rich vein of form at the moment. The flight winner was Larry Ang, obviously now over the hiatus which followed his extra large handicap cut a few weeks ago. His 38 points was well constructed and he was the only golfer to break par on the day.
The ‘2’s pot was shared by Brian Beaupre, Dave Lehane and Robbie Taylor. Old friend Mike Ensor sponsored two technicals on the day and they were won by Robbie Taylor for the best nine hole score of 22 points and Bento Saeverud for the worst nine hole score of 9 points. Cheers Mike!
The Booby Bevy went to low scoring Andrew Purdie and Rabbi’s free beer draw was won by Brian Talbot on his return from UK. All in all it was a very pleasant day at Emerald.
Wilson’s dream debut at Khao Kheow
The Pattaya Golf Society chose Khao Kheow as the venue for a stableford competition on Friday, 12th April and we were allocated the A and B nines as the combination for the day. The annual evacuation of golfers from pre-Songkhran Pattaya saw a moderately sized field contest the day in a single flight and the course was in good condition except that the front nine greens had been recently sanded.
In fourth place was Dutch golfer Harry Soek with 33 points, just one behind the runners up Brian Talbot and John Mason, with 34 points. The plaudits of the day were reserved for newest PGS member Iain Wilson after his dream debut with the group in which he played the course in a level par 72 off the yellow tees. Thirty seven points from a tough course augers well for the Scottish golfer on his first visit to Khao Kheow.
Iain also shared the ‘2’s pot with Paul Edgar and Dave Plaiter. John Chelo enjoyed the Booby Bevy for his 18-8 split figures and Bento Saeverud won Rabbi’s free beer draw on his final appearance this trip.
It had been an enjoyable day at Khao Kheow and showed that golfers can still have fun at Songkhran!

Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League

Results & Standings April 11 (week 23)

Team	Played	Won	Lost	Bonus	Pts.
Winners Bar	23	22	1	1	67
Buddy Bar	23	20	3	3	63
Country Road	23	19	4	4	61
Simple Simon	23	12	11	11	47
Flying Dolphin	22	13	9	7	46
Shenanigans	23	12	11	9	45
Take Care Bar	23	11	12	10	43
Windmill Bar	23	10	13	13	43
Woaw’s Bar	23	10	13	12	42
Jimmy’s Den	23	9	14	12	39
Minny’s Bar	23	7	16	12	33
Anzac Bar	23	7	16	8	29
Lion Pub	22	5	17	7	22
Wombat Bar	23	3	20	13	22
Results:  Wombat Bar 5 v 10 Lion Pub, Anzac Bar 2 v 13 Winners Bar, Minny’s Bar 5 v 10 Simple Simon, Jimmy’s Den 9 v 6 Windmill Bar, Buddy Bar 6 v 9 Shenanigans, Flying Dolphin 8 v 7 Woaw’s Bar, Take Care Bar 5 v 10 Country Road.

Golfnutter: Smell the roses

Welcome to Golfnutter’s blog – a weekly commentary highlighting contemporary golfing issues, in Pattaya and beyond. For more on matters golf, especially Pattaya golf, visit golfnutter.wordpress.com.
A Canadian friend sent me this letter from a former golfer. Although addressed to himself, it is intended for a far larger audience, and deservedly so.

“Dear Younger Me,
I can’t play golf anymore. I tried to swing the club the other day, but my body wouldn’t cooperate. The best I can do now is sometimes take walks on the course, but my eyes aren’t as good as they used to be so I don’t see much. I have a lot of time to sit and think now, about the game I loved.
It was my favourite game. I played most of my adult life. Thousands of rounds, thousands of hours practicing. As I look back, I guess I had a pretty good time at it. But now that I can’t do it anymore, I wish I had done it differently.
It’s funny, but with all the time I spent playing golf, I never thought I was a real golfer. I never felt good enough to really belong out there. It doesn’t make much sense, since I scored better than average and a lot of people envied my game, but I always felt that if I was just a little better or a little more consistent, then I’d feel really good. I’d be satisfied with my game. But I never was. It was always “One of these days I’ll get it” or “One day I’ll get there” and now here I am. I can’t play anymore, and I never got there.
I met a whole lot of different people out on the course. That was one of the best things about the game. But aside from my regular partners and a few others, I don’t feel like I got to know many of those people very well. I know they didn’t really get to know me. At times they probably didn’t want to. I was pretty occupied with my own game most of the time and didn’t have much time for anyone else, especially if I wasn’t playing well.
So why am I writing you this letter anyway, just to complain? Not really. Like I said, my golfing experience wasn’t that bad. But it could have been so much better, and I see that so clearly now. I want to tell you, so you can learn from it. I don’t want you getting to my age and feeling the same regrets I’m feeling now.
I wish, I wish. Sad words, I suppose, but necessary. I wish I could have played the game with more joy, more freedom. I was always so concerned with “doing it right” that I never seemed to be able to enjoy just doing it at all. Who was I trying to please? Certainly not myself, because I never did. I wish I could have been a better playing partner. I wasn’t a bad person to be with, really, but I wish I had been friendlier and gotten to know people better. I wish I could have laughed and joked more and given people more encouragement, made more friends and had a better time.
I’m inside a lot now and I miss the beauty of the outdoors. For years when I was golfing I walked through some of the most beautiful places, and yet I don’t feel I really saw them. Stunning landscapes, trees, flowers, animals, the sky, and the ocean – how could I have missed so much? What was I thinking of that was so important – my grip, back-swing, stance? Sure, I needed to think about those, sometimes, but so often as to be oblivious to so much beauty, so much wonderful greenery? My eyes are failing. I wish I had used them better so I would have more vivid memories now.
So what is it that I’m trying to say? I played the type of game that I thought I should play in order to become a real golfer. But it didn’t work. My game was mine to play, but I gave it away to this other golfer – the self-absorbed one who was always chasing a better score, no matter what.
It’s a wonderful game. Please, don’t give it away. Play a game that you want to play. Play a game that gives you joy and satisfaction and makes you a better person to your family and friends. Play with enthusiasm, play with freedom. Appreciate the beauty of nature and the people around you. All too soon your time will be up, and you won’t be able to play anymore. Play a game that enriches your life – smell the roses.”
Happy golfing!
Golfnutter

Ruck ‘n’ Roll at Pattaya Rugby Festival 2013

Amari Orchid Pattaya Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Tournament

Fr. Ray soccer team gets new kit

Adam Thornton (right), Welfare Officer of Bedhead FC in London, presents new soccer shirts to the boys at the Father Ray Children’s Home. Bedhead FC is a football academy based in Battersea, South London, and was established by the late Guy Mascolo, one of the founders of the world wide chain of hairdressing salons Toni&Guy.

Expect some spectacular action at this year’s Pattaya Rugby Festival.

The weekend of 4th and 5th May 2013 will see the thirteenth staging of the Pattaya 10’s Rugby Tournament, which is now known as the Amari Orchid Pattaya Chris Kays Memorial Tournament to perpetuate the memory of the former Pattaya Panthers captain, who was tragically killed in the Bali bombing in October 2002.
Once again the tournament will be staged at The Horseshoe Point Resort, the field has been completely renovated and will be in superb condition and with the support of Khun Chainarin Srifuengfung, Khun Girana and their dedicated staff, we are sure that everybody will love playing or watching the rugby in such attractive surroundings. Can you remember the great atmosphere created last year with the tents erected around the field forming an amphitheatre for the battles taking place on the greensward?
There will be an open 10’s Tournament for men and a Junior Division (Under 15’s), which is now in its fourth year, to enable the youngsters to display their skills and potential on a major stage. The youth tournament will be sponsored by Kingdom Properties, a newcomer to the Pattaya scene.
There will be 16 teams in the main tournament and as usual this year there will be a very strong local influence led by the Old Bangkok Bangers and the newly invigorated Southerners! We look forward to the return of The Thai Barbarians to defend their title and The Southerners, who were narrowly beaten last year in an epic Cup final. They will be back hoping that this will be their year and with their new blood who would bet against them?
Former champions Thai Legends will be back and other new names include Surin Brutal and the Watsrichan Old Boys, who have graduated from the youth tournament.
The overseas flavour will come from the Pau Ma Tei Barbarians, the touring identity of the famous Valley RFC in Hong Kong, and a relatively new and somewhat unknown quantity, also from Hong Kong, with the rather strange name for a basically Chinese team of Hong Kong Scottish RFC.
A big disappointment is that one of our favourite teams the Buccaneers from Australia will not be coming as a team but several of their crew will be coming as individuals and looking to help out any teams that are short! Of course those perennial crowd favourites The Bangkok Japanese will be looking to upset some of the more favoured teams, their numbers have increased and they have turned in some great results in recent competitions.
There will not be such a strong academic influence this year although Thammasat University will be making their second appearance at the tournament and the military will return with a team from the Army Preparatory Academy. Also a new alumnae team from Bangkok University, “Bargunchong”, will be making their debut on the local rugby scene.
Our old friends the Chiang Mai Suas will be vying for the silverware and the Phuket Vagabonds will certainly be leading the charge to the Bar! But don’t underestimate the hosts who despite losing several stalwarts have been training hard on the field under new coach Tom Kerr and Captain Adrien Simon, the leader of the French revolution!
A tournament such as this could not be staged without the backing of our generous sponsors and this year the Amari Orchid Resort have become the event‘s principal sponsor and the tournament will therefore be known as the Amari Orchid Pattaya Chris Kays Memorial Tournament. We have also received significant support from Jamesons, Kingdom Properties and Cranes & Equipment Asia.
In addition the Panthers would also like to thank other tournament sponsors: Construction Cost Consultants, Bangkok Pattaya Hospital, Aus Group (formerly Modern Industries), CR Asia Ltd., Societe Generale de Surveillance, Jardine Shipping Services, Phoenix Pacific Inc., Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, Pattaya Mail Media Group, and our now legendary social sponsors Icebreaker and Rhenus Logistics.
Players and friends will get together on Friday night (3rd May) for team registration and a welcoming party and “warm up training session” at the Tavern By the Sea in the Amari Orchid Resort Pattaya. The action will begin at 9am on Saturday and concludes around 6pm Sunday in what should be a memorable weekend festival of rugby there will be almost 24 hours of entertaining rugby action during the two days.
Note that the Kingdom Property U-15’s tournament will be played from 16:00 to 19:00 on Saturday evening and will conclude between 08:00 and 10:00 on Sunday morning.
As an added bonus this year we are expecting Chris Kays’ parents Ray and Lin to honour us with their presence. The weather is forecast to be fine but very HOT and the venue is in perfect condition so we have no doubt that this will be another spectacular tournament says the Chairman of the Pattaya Panthers, Jim Howard.

Sandy Stuvik tipped to make F1 leap in 3 years

 

Sandy Stuvik aiming for the top.

 

A group of Thai organizations and industries have joined forces with GP2 series championship contender Racing Engineering to launch their bid to bring Thai racer Sandy Stuvik to Formula 1. The strong drive is aimed at taking advantage of the incredible marketing opportunity that lays in having a Thai racer participating in a worldwide top-level sporting event.
The initial launch sets a target and direction for the Thai driver to reach Formula 1 within the next 3 years. Stuvik is currently racing in the European Formula 3 Open series and is expected to move up to the GP2 series next year, which races together with Formula 1 at selected events.

 

 

European Formula 3 driver Sandy Nicholas Stuvik (center) is flanked by (left to right) Thomas Raldorf, Racing mentor, Nattiya Artplengphot, Public Relation Manager RAAT, Charoenporn Raksasin, Motorsport Manager RAAT, Alfonso de Olreans Borbon, owner of GP2 Racing Engineering team, Voravud Bhirombhakdi, Director Event Marketing and Business Partnership of Singha Corporation, Wiboon Champangeun, Director of Professional Sports development Division, Kridakan Phinidchai, Assistance PR manager Minor Food Group, and Soo Sann Yin, Assistant Manager Events & Activation Air Asia.

Royal Navy FC sail off with 6th Pattaya Futsal Cup

Pattaya mayor Ittipol Kunplome (right) presents the champions trophy to the captain of Royal Navy FC.

Vittaya Yoondorn
The 6th Pattaya Futsal Cup competition took place from April 3-7 at the Physical Education building of Pattaya school no. 7 and was well attended by supporters of the teams plus members of the general public.
The competition was divided into 4 sub-groups listed A-D, with Sabaidee FC and Nongyai BS getting the tournament underway on April 3 with an entertaining 3-3 draw in the U16’s competition. Over the course of the next few days, teams fought hard for supremacy and were gradually whittled down until only the very best were left standing.

Winning teams show off their trophies as they pose with dignitaries and officials at the conclusion of the tournament.

In the junior competition, Trakun Liang defeated the hosts Pattaya School No. 7 in the final to be crowned champions while Sabaidee FC came in third.
The senior Open tournament saw some great skills and action on display throughout the event and Navy FC emerged as the winners after defeating Lampang United FC 6-1 in the final, while Pattaya FC came in as 1st runners up ahead of Bangkok FC and Nonthaburi respectively.
Trophies and cash prizes were awarded to all the winning teams by Pattaya mayor Ittipol Kunplome, city officials and members of the Thai Futsal association.

Pattaya Mail PC Classic – a sailing tradition reborn

Ib Ottesen -Jomtien Boathouse (right).

Inaugurated in 1995 to celebrate the sixtieth birthday of Peter Cummins, the renowned Pattaya Mail scribe and 10th commodore of the Royal Varuna Yacht Club (1979 - 1980), the Pattaya Mail PC Classic quickly established itself as one of the most eagerly anticipated yearly sailing festivals in this still fledgling but rapidly developing maritime city.
After taking an unforeseen hiatus for a couple of years, the Classic had new life breathed into it in 2012 as it returned to form a key part of the pre-Olympic multihull extravaganza, held at Royal Varuna Yacht Club in February last year.

Prince Malhotra - Pattaya Mail Media Group (left).

In 2013, the Pattaya Mail PC Classic had further kudos bestowed upon it as it was entwined with the Singha OK Dinghy World Championships, held in Pattaya and indeed Thailand for the first time, from March 31-April 5. The event was blessed with tremendous weather, with PC Classic day itself, April 4, benefitting from the strongest winds of the week. Many accolades followed from both the sailors taking part and the OK Dinghy organizational committee and news spread rapidly through the international yachting media.
Thanks to the input from the many generous local sponsors who came onboard, namely, Bakri Cono Shipyard, Pattaya Self Storage (PSS), BBX Thailand, Norwegian Properties Group, ASAP Marine Trading, Jomtien Boathouse, SKAL Eastern Seaboard, the Singha Beer Corporation, and the Pattaya Mail Media Group, proceeds raised at the event will be set aside to help those less fortunate in the community. Too often, the sponsors are the first to come forward but the last to receive recognition, so this week we put them squarely in the spotlight.

Peter Cummins (right).

Below are a few words from the man himself, Peter Cummins, now a septuagenarian but still going as strong as ever and looking forward to many more PC Classics to rival this year’s success.
Photos: Our generous sponsors presenting PC Classic trophies to the winners.

Bernard Lamprecht - Bakri Cono Shipyard (right).

PC Classic trophies await the victors.

OK Dinghies race for home.

Tony Malhotra - President Skal International Pattaya & East Thailand (right).

Jan Olav Aamlid - Pattaya Self Storage (right).

Berne Lamprecht - ASAP Marine Trading (right).

Gudmund Eiksund - Norwegian Properties Group (right).

Peter Malhotra, MD Pattaya Mail Media Group, recounts the story of the PC Classic to guests and sailors.

Peter Cummins stands tall with Dan Dorothy, Executive Editor Pattaya Mail (left) and Martin Bilsborrow, Asst. Editor Pattaya Mail (right).

---

“The Singha OK Dinghy World Championship, held last week at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, was not only most successful but it allowed us to “resurrect” the “Pattaya Mail PC Classic”, as an integral event in the competition.
To say the very least, due to Peter’s (Malhotra) hard work and enthusiasm and the sponsorship that he was able to solicit at short notice, the day was a superb success. According to the OKDIA press officer, Robert Deaves, the 16th sailing of the PC Classic was “a highlight” of a great week’s sailing and was enshrined in the hearts of the 80 competitors from nine countries who participated.
I personally thank Peter, the “Pattaya Mail” staff and all our sponsors who revived this classic event and, no doubt, it will now continue to promote Pattaya, Thailand generally and, particularly, the many of our less fortunate denizens of the Eastern Seaboard and elsewhere, who are the beneficiaries of the sponsorship that the “Classic” attracts.
I felt particularly proud, especially among the boys’ marching band, the army of fellow-sailors and our sponsors.
I think we can look forward to further editions of the “Pattaya Mail PC Classic”, in the years to come.”
Peter Cummins

Sea Fishing with Pattaya Sports Club

Pattaya 9-Ball Pool League

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Mike Hill dominates the week

Hoare doubles up at Soi Dao

Bourke bags a brace of victories

Hunter & Woody victorious at the Mountain

Macintyre steps forward at Emerald

‘Judge’ rules at Eastern Star

Baechli storms home at Burapha

Habgood shoots low for medal glory

Pat’s back on top

Newbert nets some nice numbers

Tough times at Treasure Hill

Head makes short work of Eastern Star

Scribe scrambles to podium success

Simpson shoots the lights out at Phoenix

Close calls at Emerald

Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League

Golfnutter: Smell the roses

Ruck ‘n’ Roll at Pattaya Rugby Festival 2013

Sandy Stuvik tipped to make F1 leap in 3 years

Royal Navy FC sail off with 6th Pattaya Futsal Cup

Pattaya Mail PC Classic – a sailing tradition reborn