SPORTS

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SPORTS

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: David Shaw, Antero Ronkainen, Jan Johansson, Aht Johansson and Mai Munsita.

Results & Standings May 24 (week 21)

Pos. Team Score Standings

1 Café Kronborg 3-1 51 - 33

2 Indiana 3 – 1 50 - 34

3 Semper FI 2 – 2 50 - 34

4 Canada 1-3 46 - 38

5 Green Tree 1-3 45.5 - 38.5

6 Bavaria 4 – 0 43 - 41

7 VFW Post 9876 2-2 42 - 42

8 Jack Tar 1-3 39.5 - 44.5

9 Brother D 3-1 38 - 46

10 Blind 0 - 4 15 - 69

Café Kronborg took three points from Canada to remain in first place but only by one point. Nok Ostbo bowled games of 188, 172, and 196 for a 556 series and Kran Nielsen had a 543 for Kronborg. David Shaw had a 218 game and 559 series for Canada.
Second place Indiana took three points from Jack Tar with Antero Ronkainen leading Indiana with a 203 game and 558 series with Somrit scoring a 526. Ooy Pluemkamon was best for Jack Tar with a 524 series and Jan Johansson had a 212 game.
Third place Semper FI split their match with VFW Post 9876 with each team winning two points. Aht Johansson bowled a 200 game and 530 series for VFW.
Brother D won three points from Brother D and Bavaria too all four points from the Blind team.
Mai Munsita, bowling as a Pacer, had a 215 game and 541 series.

Mabprachan Pool Team Knock-Out

Results & Standings May 23 (week 5)

Team Pts. For Against Diff.

Smarty’s 10 34 26 8

Barking Frog 9 35 20 15

Ice Bar 9 32 28 4

Outback 8 31 29 2

Panitas 8 31 29 2

Brasshouse 8 28 27 1

Pats Bar 7 29 31 -2

Mulligans 4 26 34 -8

Lucky Bar 3 23 32 -9

Sweet Dream 1 21 34 -13

Results: Panita’s 8 v 4 Pats Bar, Smarty’s 3 v 9 Brasshouse, Ice Bar 7 v 5 Outback, Mulligans 8 v 4 Lucky Bar, Sweet Dreams 6 v 6 Barking Frog

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Results & Standings May 20 (week 15)

Division 1

Team P W L +/- BP Pts.

Shoot Pool 14 13 1 65 0 39

Irish Rovers 13 8 5 19 0 24

Links Bar 12 7 5 7 1 22

Legends Pool 11 7 4 2 1 22

Butchers Arms 12 6 6 4 1 19

Sweethearts Bar 12 5 7 -12 1 16

Pook’s Bar 14 5 9 -25 1 16

Nicky’s Bar 12 5 7 -16 0 15

Biggy’z Rest 12 4 8 -15 2 14

Dean’s Bar 14 3 11 -29 1 10

Results: Links Bar 10 v 6 Irish Rovers

Division 2

Team P W L +/- BP Pts.

The Caddyshack 14 11 3 22 0 33

Smile Bar 13 9 4 23 1 28

Cheers Bar 12 9 3 15 1 28

Easy R-con Bar 13 9 4 23 0 27

Wet Bar 13 8 5 -1 1 25

Eor’s Bar 13 6 7 -12 1 19

Offshore Bar 13 5 8 -19 1 16

Mai’s Bar 10 5 5 -3 0 15

Rabbi’s Elephant 12 1 11 -48 0 3

Results: Easy R-con Bar 5 v 10 Legends Pool, Rabbi’s Elephant 4 v 10 Nicky’s Bar

British Bar Snacks Friday Pool League

Results & Standings May 17 (week 10)

Division 1

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

Shoot Pool 9 8 1 32 0 24

Links Bar 7 5 2 6 1 16

Pook’s Bar 8 5 3 8 0 15

Butchers Arms 7 4 3 4 1 13

Mata Bar 9 4 5 -2 0 12

Sweethearts Bar 7 3 4 2 2 11

Biggyz Rest ‘A’ 8 3 5 -15 1 10

Nicky’s Bar 9 2 7 -21 0 6

Legends Pool 6 1 5 -14 1 4

Results: Legends Pool 7 v 10 Shoot Pool, Mata Bar 5 v 10 The Butchers Arms, Pook’s Bar W v L (Bye), Nicky’s Bar 3 v 10 Sweethearts Bar

Division 2

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

Old Thai Angle 9 6 3 18 0 18

Offshore Bar 9 6 3 16 0 18

Easy R-Con Bar 8 5 3 10 1 16

Irish Rovers 10 5 5 -11 1 16

Dean’s Bar 8 4 4 -1 0 12

Tie’s R Us 8 4 4 -1 0 12

FCUK Inn 9 4 5 -12 0 12

Crazy Eddie’s 7 3 4 -2 1 10

Mai’s Bar 8 1 7 -17 3 6

Results: Dean’s Bar W v L (Bye), Mai’s Bar 3 v 10 Irish Rovers, Offshore Bar 8 v 10 Old Thai Angle

Division 3

Team P W L +/- BP Pts

Smile Bar 10 10 0 49 0 30

Biggy’z Rest ‘B’ 8 7 1 19 0 21

Wet Bar 10 5 5 -7 1 16

Rabbi’s Elephant 10 5 5 -10 0 15

The QueenVic 8 4 4 -4 1 13

The Ranch 7 4 3 -1 0 12

Buffalo Jacks 9 4 5 -6 0 12

Connections 10 2 8 -40 0 6

Results: Biggy’z Rest ‘B’ W v L (Bye), Buffalo Jacks W v L (Bye), Connections 1 v 10 Smile Bar, Rabbi’s Elephant 10 v 2 Wet Bar

The Sportsman Monday Darts League

Results & Standings May 20 (week 12)

Team P W L B/L +/- Pts

Legends Darts 12 12 0 12 82 24

Dang’s Bar 10 7 3 5 12 14

Load Out Bar 12 6 6 5 -10 12

Double Top Bar 12 5 7 5 2 10

Irish Rovers 12 3 9 5 -32 6

Jantha Coffee House 12 2 10 1 -54 4

Results: Legends Darts (8-1)-(1-0) v Jantha Coffee, Irish Rovers (5-1)-(4-0) v Double Top Bar

Nick the Pizza Friday 601 Darts League

Results & Standings May 24 (week 18)

Team P W L B/L +/- Pts

Taffy’s Bar ‘A’ 17 17 0 14 97 34

Dang’s Bar 14 11 3 11 52 22

Legends Darts 14 9 5 8 16 18

Load Out Bar 17 7 10 9 -31 14

Jantha Coffee House 18 6 12 8 -34 12

Results: Jantha Coffee (5-1)-(0-0) v Bye, Legends Darts (2-0)-(7-1) v Taffy’s Bar ‘A’ - (F)

Crumpton Oaks Dry Cider Wednesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 22 (week 4)

Team P W L Diff. Pts.

Legends Darts 4 4 0 30 8

W. Tankies 4 4 0 20 8

Mee Chew Sports Bar 4 3 1 20 6

Scandalic 4 2 2 4 4

Yates Bar 4 2 2 -8 4

Irish Rovers 4 1 3 -16 2

Mai’s Bar 4 0 4 -24 0

Jantha Coffee House 4 0 4 -26 0

Results: Irish Rovers (0-0)-(9-1) v Scandalic, Mai’s Bar (0-0)-(9-1) v W. Tankies, Mee Chew Sports Bar (9-1)-(0-0) v Jantha Coffee House, Yates Bar (1-1)-(8-0) v Legends Darts

Howett makes it a double

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Rod Howett, Chris Reed, Chris Voller and Colin James.

Monday, May 20, Phoenix - Stableford
After a hectic and brilliant time last week with four rounds of golf in Hua Hin, we were cooling things down today with a short trip up the road to Phoenix.
28 players for this time of the year is a good turnout for us and the equal cut was 3-15 in division 1 and 16 plus in division 2 for the stableford round.
The temperature today was not as bad as it has been over the past couple of weeks and this came as a relief to everyone. We were allocated the Ocean and Mountain nines today as the Lakes course is shut for renovation.
After his third placing overall the previous week, Chuck Anderson won division 1 today with 37 points. Lindsay Phillips came in second two points behind Chuck and Kari Kuparinen, now playing off 6, scored 22 on the front nine and 12 on the back to finish third with 34 points.
Kari Aarnio was the winner in division 2 with 33 points and Roar Berger, back after a three month break, beat ‘the Frog’, Jean Morel on a 17/15 back nine count back for second after they both came in with 32 points.
Kari Kuparinen birdied Mountain 8 and Steve Snelgrove Mountain 4 to split the ‘2’s pot in division 1, while in the second division there were three rollovers to Greenwood on Wednesday.
Near pins went to Chuck Anderson, Billy Fitzgerald, Kalani Makaneole, Pete Sumner, Kari Aarnio, John Harvey and Johnny Larsson.
Wednesday, May 22, Greenwood - Stableford
The Amata City traffic lights on the 331 have now become a joke with major delays so we are now re thinking the route to the four courses on this road, but with an 18km difference going up the 7 and heading towards the Pattana entrance we all think this could be a better route.
Seven groups out today with the equal cut at 6-18 and 19+ in division 2.
Playing off 9, Terry Madsen in division 1 beat the Hua Hin winner Jerry Sweetnam on a back two count back of 4/3 after they both came in with 38 points each; 18/18 on the back nine, 13/13 on the back six and 6/6 on the last three holes. Pete Sumner was third, beating Kari Kuparinen and Chris Voller on a 20/19/18 count back after they all came in with 36 points.
In the frame every week, Rod Howett won division 2 with 35 points while back from the ‘land down under’, Mark Armstrong beat his fellow countryman 19/17 on a back nine count back for second spot after he and Colin James came in with 34 points.
Pete Sumner birdied A6 for the only ‘2’ in division 1 and Rodney’s birdie on the C6 hole took three rollovers but the bell was silent back at Siam Cats?
Near were awarded to Billy Fitzgerald, Pete Sumner, and Roar Berger.
There were an amazing 5 no-shows at the presentation today in the nearest the pins category and the rollover kitty is building up in two divisions for our next extravaganza game.
Friday, May 24, Eastern Star - Stableford
A public holiday today and there were quite a few cars and mini buses in the car park as we arrived but as we approached the first tee there was one group out in front of us and it was a five-ball. The first group had a few hold-ups on the front nine but still went round in 2 hours and on the tenth we were called through and we completed the back nine in 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Marty Rock, playing off 11, scored 37 points to win division 1 ahead of Jerry Sweetnam in second four points behind and Ted Gardner beat Chris Voller on a 16/14 count back for third after they both came in with 32 points.
Rod Howett, still on the stage, won division 2 with 34 points, beating Chris Reed on a 20/18 back nine count back, with Frank Kelly in third place on 32.
Near pins were claimed by Kari Kuparinen, Marty Rock (2), Mark Armstrong, Steve Ironside and Chris Reed.
Chris Voller birdied the 13th for the only ‘2’ of the day and there were three rollovers in division 1. Our next fun game here is on the 7th June with a rainbow competition.
Today we said bon voyage to Terry Redding, back to Aire in Chaing Mai, and Steve Ironside and family back to my local village in Lambourn.

Golfnutter: Rules – Embedded Ball

C9 from the tee-box at Khao Kheow.
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 www.golfnutter.wordpress.com.
Imagine your IPGC/PSC affiliated group is enjoying its day out at Khao Kheow. Your four-ball is on the tee of C9 – the par-4 pictured in the photo. The player whose card you are marking has just sent his tee-shot into what looks like a large bunker, located some 200 yards down the right, between the fairway and the lake.
Having managed to keep your tee-shot on the short stuff, you head off to where you suspect your partner’s ball will be. On the way you read the Local Rules printed on the scorecard. There are two salient points:
· Embedded ball rule is in effect through the green.
· The waste bunkers, the sand areas, on the right side of holes 2a, 9a, 5c & 9c and left side of 3a, 2b & 7c are neither bunkers nor hazards. These 7 areas all contain grassy bushes.
On arrival you note the ball is in the “waste bunker”. You also note that less than half is visible as it’s embedded in sand. You realise the scorecard’s reference to “Embedded ball rule” refers to Rule 25-2 - relief, without penalty, for a ball embedded in its own pitch-mark in any closely-mown area through the green. This, however, is not a “closely-mown area”.
The player, whose card you are marking, asks for a free drop on the grounds that his ball is embedded through the green, and, according to the scorecard, is not in a hazard.
As marker, one of your most important duties is to protect the interests of every other golfer in the field – the other competitors – as indeed they should protect yours. Given all of the above, how would you respond?
Both IPGC and PSC Local Rules give relief, without penalty, for an embedded ball lying through the green (on any part of the course except for hazards, plus the tee and putting green of the hole in play). Neither makes reference to sand. This, when added to what the scorecard states, means the ball clearly lies through the green. So what’s the problem with granting the request for a free drop?
The problem is sand.
The Rules of Golf contain a section headed: Appendix 1; Local Rules; Conditions of the Competition. One purpose of this section is to ensure golf clubs apply uniformity when devising Local Rules. Another is to ensure the integrity of handicapping systems by restricting what clubs can and can’t do with Local Rules. Thus the R&A’s following instruction to local committees: If local abnormal conditions interfere with the proper playing of the game and the Committee considers it necessary to modify a Rule of Golf, authorisation from the R&A must be obtained.
Both IPGC and PSC Local Rules contain instances where the Rules of Golf have been modified, without R&A sanction, and understandably so given the uniqueness that is golf in Thailand. But when it comes to modifying a Rule of Golf, where the playing circumstances are the same here as anywhere else in the world, I believe R&A instruction should be followed.
The rule makers never intended that relief be given for a ball embedded in sand, if that sand is not within a closely-mown area: Appendix 1, Part B, Specimen Local Rules 4.a. Relief for Embedded Ball:
When permission to take relief for an embedded ball anywhere through the green would be warranted, the following Local Rule is recommended:
“Through the green, a ball that is embedded in its own pitch-mark in the ground may be lifted, without penalty, cleaned and dropped as near as possible to where it lay but not nearer the hole. The ball when dropped must first strike a part of the course through the green.
Exceptions:
1. A player may not take relief under this Local Rule if the ball is embedded in sand in an area that is not closely mown.
Note: “Closely-mown area” means any area of the course, including paths through the rough, cut to fairway height or less.
This clearly excludes sand from the condition under which relief is provided. Unless found on the putting surface, sand is not a loose impediment. It cannot be moved, removed, shaped, or played with in any way. If a ball comes to rest in sand, the Rules intend that it be played as it lies.
We need to recognise the relevance of sand when considering relief for an embedded ball. Khao Kheow has seven of these waste bunkers, so the chance of them catching someone’s ball is high.
I believe the golfer is not entitled to relief without penalty, as his ball is embedded in sand that is not within a closely-mown area.
Happy Golfing,
Golfnutter

Watson & Filmer sparkle at Crystal Bay

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, May 21, Khao Kheow – Stableford
Once a month we like to go to this course and test ourselves against one of the toughest layouts in the area. We usually get clobbered but it does not stop us going back for more, and that is because we like to challenge ourselves. Sounds good does it not, but for most we just want a day out on a great course.

Alan Sullivan (right) with Dick Warberg.

So on this day a small but select group of four-balls set off from Bert’s looking forward to a great day out. We were pleased to see Rodney back and despite a ‘Rodney Warning’ we still had brave souls turn out to play. Mind they did not know.
At the course we noticed the car park was nearly empty, so it was a question of getting in and getting to the first tee, where we found that we were to play the A & C Nines. We discovered that there was no chance of playing the B Nine as it was under major reconstruction. The whole of B9 was ripped up and being reworked.
The 18 holes we played is difficult, certainly the most difficult 18 holes, and a very strong wind did not make day any easier. To beat your handicap here you have to play really well and to play on a difficult day like this any good score would be a leader.
The course proved, as expected, very difficult but still it was in very good condition. The fairways were clean and the greens were fast and true, so maybe we would have a good score or two.

Thursday winners Bob Watson & John Filmer.

Back at Bert’s it was soon time for the results, and the winner with a very fine 38 points was Alan Sullivan ahead of Walter Baechli in second with 35 points. In third was Paul Sharples with 34 points and in fourth with 31 was Mike Gaussa ahead of Mashi.
Near Pins: Daryl Evans, Walter Baechli, Darren Sargood
Thursday, May 23, Crystal Bay – Stableford
For many years this was my favourite course, and even now with its glory somewhat faded by a lack of maintenance, it is still well worth a day out. The fairways used to be immaculate and the clubhouse spick and span, and it seems it is now looked after less than perfectly. However, go without the memory of how good it used to be and you will still think this is a fine course. It is also a good rate to play, so all in all well worth a visit.
On this day we booked in and were soon on the first tee, which was the C Nine to be followed by the A Nine. We had not played the C course for some time, and it is a very tricky test. Today, with a strong wind, it proved to be really tough, however with not having played it for some time it was like playing a new course.
The A Nine is an old friend and we play it quite often, so although we had a strong wind it proved more friendly than the C. The fairways on both nines were in quite good condition but the greens were good, as usual fast and tricky but pretty true. Of course, as is usual at present, it was really hot,
The showers were fine if you like cold water and the restaurant is good despite its faded glory. All in all a fine day out!
Back at Bert’s it was time for the results. In the A Flight, 0 to 18, the winner was Bob Watson with 41 points and a gross 70 (a good round and not unexpected from this fine golfer). In second was Darren Sargood with 40 points and in third was Brian Parish with 37 points on count back over Dick Warberg. ‘The Warberger’ had just sneaked into the A Flight, which was unfortunate as if he had stayed in B Flight he would have been in the frame.
In the B Flight the scores were not quite as good, but the winner was John Filmer with a fine 40 points. In second was your scribe, Derek Brook, with 36 points and feeling really ‘sad’ that Dick was in the A Flight. In third was Ray White with 34 points. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Max Scott, Mashi Kaneta (2), Mike Gaussa, Dick Warberg, Daryl Evans, John Filmer, Barry Oates

The highs & lows of golf

PSC golf from Rendezvous Resort

Tuesday, May 21, Green Valley - Stableford
Tuesday was a long anticipated return to Green Valley for many, with Low Season offering the opportunity for all to play there. The course was in good condition, and thankfully the weather was not as stiflingly hot as past weeks.
Today’s winner was Jonathan Pratt (15) with 39 points, ahead of Colin Quinlan (9) with 35, edging Jeff on count back 19/16. It was a game of highs & lows for Jeff, achieving the high of the rare feat of two Eagle 2s in a round, but hitting the wrong ball in a bunker for a disappointing low.

Jonathan Pratt

Near pins were shared around between Jeff, Colin, Tom & Jonathan.
Thursday, May 23, Rayong C.C. - Stableford
Rayong Country Club was our venue for Thursday, with the condition of the course commensurate with the green fee of 300 baht. Good value was the consensus of the group, but a bit rough round the edges.
Jeff Wylie (7) shook off the disappointment from Tuesday to come good with a score of 37 points, well clear of Owen Walkley (8) with 31. Jeff & Owen continued the prize pillage, picking up the near pins available.
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!

Graham shoots sizzling back-nine at Burapha

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Monday, May 20, Phoenix
(Ocean & Mountain) – Stableford
The Phoenix course has recently been acquired by new owners and it was immediately apparent when driving up to the clubhouse that refurbishments are already underway. With a newly painted roof (presumably to deter the resident pigeon population) and lots of newly planted palm trees and shrubs, the clubhouse has a fresher look, but it will be interesting to see how they tackle the interior, which has always had the appearance (and appeal) of an empty aircraft hangar.

The boss contemplates a bar with no beer (or golfers) on Visakha Bucha day.

The course was relatively quiet so we were able to tee-off a few minutes early, with no groups in sight ahead of us. The weather was bright and sunny and the course was in good condition, so conditions were near perfect for another great round of golf.
We completed the outward nine in double quick time, but unfortunately our leading group caught up to a particularly slow four-ball on the twelfth hole and our progress came to a grinding halt. In the event the scores were a little disappointing with only Mashi Kaneta playing to his (somewhat higher than normal) handicap to take the honours ahead of Tony Robbins.
1st Mashi Kaneta (15) 36pts
2nd Tony Robbins (14) 35pts
3rd Colin Jones (23) 34pts
Near Pins: Steve Durey and Tony Robbins.
Wednesday, May 22, Burapha (A & B) – Stableford
The higher handicap golfers got their way today, as we elected to play off the white tees, which with a course length of 6,200 yards is somewhat shorter than we normally play. The weather was superb again and the course was also in great condition, so it was no surprise that the scores were much better than on our last visit here.
The use of the compulsory buggies, and the fact that the course was quiet, meant that everyone was back in the clubhouse in well under four hours - left pondering what to do for the rest of the day.
John Graham had a great back nine, scoring 23 points (2 over par gross) to record the best score of the day ahead of Steve Durey, who claimed second place on a count back over Neil Griffin. It looked for most of the round that Neil was going to walk away with the honours but three blobs on the last four holes wrecked his card (or has he been attending the JH school of handicap management?)
1st John Graham (11) 39pts
2nd Steve Durey (17) 38pts
3rd Neil Griffin (23) 38pts
Near Pins: Steve Durey, John Graham and Geoff Parker.
Friday, May 24, The Emerald – Stableford
We’ve been plagued by public holidays on our golf days so far this year, and today was yet another (Visaka Bucha Day) which being a bar closing day, meant that the normal après-golf excursion to nearby Bang Chang had to be abandoned.
We’ve already had three holidays on golf days this month, so maybe this, the lack of après golf activities, and the increased green fees contributed to the fact that only three die-hard golfers turned up at The Ranch. Yours truly would have been there but was stranded at home on the darkside with a flat battery, and was left twiddling his thumbs all day!
The die-hards however did manage to get their game, ending up with John Graham and Neil Griffin tied on 37 points.
1st John Graham (11) 37pts
2nd Neil Griffin (23) 37pts
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.

Golf from the sandbox

Beaver Bar Golf Society

Larry Willett.

A change of date to Thursday, 23 May, due to the Friday holiday saw all those attending the weekly Beaver Bar golf outing faced with heavy sand on the front nine at Emerald. Prior knowledge of this and knowing the back nine was free of sand made it an enjoyable trial.
Despite the sanding, there were several players who posted quite decent scores. Larry Willett and Paul Smets both posted scores of 37 stableford points with Larry winning the day’s honors on a count back. Oliver Fritz took nearest to the pin prize on the difficult 13th hole.
After the golf, all retired to the Beaver Bar to wash the sand out of their throats. The Beaver Bar thanks all for their continued support.

Charles ‘AK-47’ shoots the lights out

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, May 19, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Bill Hornick (12) 38pts
2nd Pat Regan (12) 38pts
B Flight
1st Jim Bell (17) 41pts
2nd Charles Cunningham (17) 38pts
Near Pins: No 2 Andy Kelleher, No 12 Andy Kelleher, No 16 Ian Brimble.

Andy Kellaher – 46 points at St. Andrews.

Aussie Jimmy Bell had quite a day as he pummeled the Sunday shortened Peter Thompson/ Klaus Shack lay-in (it’s a layout week days) with a sizzling 41 points that was good for the top spot in B Flight and man of the match honours. Jim’s excellent score overshadowed the fine 38 point effort from Charles Cunningham.
In A Flight the podium was full of 38 point efforts, only a count back sorted out that Bill Hornick had the best hourly rate, and that Co. Dublin’s Pat Regan came up devoid of the luck of the Irish.
Andy Kelleher split the 2’s pot with Mick Beresford.
Monday, May 2, Silky Oak - Stableford
A Flight
1st J P Maffray (14) 38pts
2nd Andy Kellaher (10) 37pts
B Flight
1st Peter Godfrey (16) 37pts
2nd Victor Hester (16) 35pts
The star of the day, not withstanding a 38 and two 37-pointers, had only 35 points but had one magic swing. Tore Eliassen canned a career highlight ‘Dodo’ on Silky Oaks 5th par 3. The lads all hoisted glass provided courtesy of Tore to toast his accomplishment.
Getting back to the mundane stuff, JP Maffray edged Andy Kellaher by a single shot to take the top spot in the premier flight.
Peter Godfrey took the B Flight top spot with the other 37-pointer as he was two clear of Vic ‘the inflictor’ Hester and Lou ‘the pied piper of Oz’. Vic did as his moniker suggested to knock Lou off the podium.
JP Maffray had a 2 that was good for nothing.
Wednesday, May 22, St. Andrews - Stableford
A Flight
1st Andy Kellaher (10) 46pts
2nd J P Maffray (14) 39pts
3rd Tore Eliassen (14) 38pts
B Flight
1st Charles Cunningham (17) 47pts
2nd Colm Donavan (19) 42pts
3rd Gerry Rafferty (18) 39pts
Charles ‘AK-47’ Cunningham blew away most of the field with a fantastic 47 points. Charles, who is no stranger to the winner’s podium, has never posted a truly low score, typically placing when he does at around his handicap (see Sunday’s missive). Whatever he was saving boiled over. Charles’ score clearly led the way in A Flight as fine second and third place efforts by the Irish duo of Colm Donavan and Gerry Rafferty nearly went unnoticed.
Without tapping the vast resources of Elias sports information it can safely be said that the 46 points bought in by Andy Kellaher would have been enough to win most Monthly Medals competed over the last 10 years. But alas on this week it was only good for first place in A Flight. Before you shed any tears for Andy, how about a thought for Colm who received only B Flight second place loot for his 42 points on this monster of a course.
The man riding a purple patch, JP Maffray, took the top flight silver one stroke clear of Tore ‘the Ace man ‘Eliassen.
Bill Hornick and Gerry Rafferty spilt the 2’s pot.
Thursday, May 23, Royal Lakeside - Stableford
A Flight
1st J P Maffray (14) 38pts
2nd Lee Grace (13) 37pts
B Flight
1st Esara Duangsri (36 36pts
2nd Kyle Frank (26) 35pts
JP Maffray, everybody’s nice guy, dazzled most of the field and the senior flight with a best of the day 38 points. This fine effort puts JP in the lead for the Golfer of the month award. The only player near him was fellow A Fighter Lee Grace who took the silver a shot in arrears;
Esara Duangsri led the B Flight players in to the barn with a very creditable even par round. Esara was followed in closely by Frank Kyle.
Lee Grace a brace Jason Newell and Colm O’Donovan shared the 2’s pot.
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.

Crilly has a Pleasant day out

Ebrahim, Wendy Bernek & Geri Crilly.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, May 20, Pleasant Valley – Stableford
A late withdrawal due to airline re-scheduling gave us a field of 18 starters to tackle the picturesque Pleasant Valley course, some of us for the second time in 3 days. As we assembled at The Growling Swan we welcomed back with us Pattaya residents Ken Hole & Ken Cornwall and then we were on our way in 2 mini-vans 5 minutes earlier than our normal departure time of 8.30 am. Traffic was fairly light for a change on a Monday morning and the journey took just 40 minutes and we found the golf course surprisingly empty considering the excellent green fee rate available at the minute.
We took our time with preparation and then sent our first group, a three-ball, away 25 minutes earlier than our booked time of 10.00 am. There were some menacing black clouds practically overhead that we had been watching as we approached the course but as usual there was no need to worry as they quickly disappeared upon commencement of our round.

Peter Grey, Fred Dineley & Alain Taddei.

Playing off the white tees for a change we proceeded at a fine pace & whilst it was fairly hot there was a bit of a breeze to make things comfortable. The golf course was looking good as it has for quite some time although the greens were quite a bit slower than we have seen them in the past.
Completing the first nine in just on two hours we did slow down a touch on the second nine with a drink stop after the fifteenth green and managed to finish the full round in four hours and five minutes. It had been a very enjoyable round with excellent company on a fine golf course.
We were able to have 2 Grades with three podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 15 and B Grade for 16 and over. There were rewards for nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the ninth & eighteenth greens.
In the restaurant afterward, before announcing the day’s winners I informed those present of the outstanding effort of three of our eight Growling Swan competitors in the PSC Monthly Tournament at the same course 3 days earlier. Congratulations to the following: Suparp “Anna” Korboon – Ladies Flight winner (43pts); Sal Brizzi – A Flight second place (net 72) and Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei – C Flight third place (39pts plus one nearest the pin).
Back to the results of the day and it was Ebrahim who took out top spot in A Grade with 40 points, 1 point ahead of Wanta Dacha in second place with Mike “Hunter” Gosden (18 point back nine) continuing his run of good form and finished third with 35 points on a count back from Suparp “Anna” Korboon (13 point back nine).
Geri Crilly won the B Grade with an excellent 44 points and Ken hole finished second with 42 points. Dick “Reverend” Braimbridge had his best ever score here in Pattaya and finished in third spot having amassed a fine 41 points.
A Flight (0-15)
1st Ebrahim (15) 40pts
2nd Wanta Dacha (9) 39pts
3rd Mike Gosden (11) 35pts
B Flight (18+)
1st Geri Crilly (28) 44pts
2nd John Davis (24) 33pts
3rd Dick Braimbridge (36) 41pts
Near Pins: 5th – Mike Gosden; 8th – Takeshi Hakozaki; 13th - Wanta Dacha; 17th – Ebrahim
Long Putts: 9th – Wanta Dacha; 18th – Ebrahim
The previous week the Growling Swan Golfer of the Month for

April was announced and the results were as follows:

1st Mike Gosden 146pts
2nd Peter Blackburn 144pts
3rd Bill McGarvie 142pts
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 narrowly won by Wendy Bernek who of course accepted the “honour” in good spirit. Once again Max “Corsets” Bracegirdle was kind enough to parade Deefa the Dog who collected several donations for the needy in Pattaya from the generous Growling Swan Golfers.
Thursday, May 23, Burapha (A & B) – Stableford
It was with great anticipation that the field of 19 assembled at The Growling Swan for a return to the classy Burapha Golf Course to take advantage of their excellent value Sports Day rate. We were happy to welcome back from overseas holidays Tom (T.C.) Cotton and Mike Allidi and we headed off from the GS 5 minutes early at 8.25 am. It’s such a short trip to the course and we were there in just over 30 minutes where we found plenty of activity and we had plenty of time to prepare.
Most of us spent quite a bit of time on the practice putting green & even some had time for a quick visit to the driving range but nonetheless, despite the course being naturally busy we were able to send our first group away, commencing on A1 15 minutes earlier than our booked time of 10.00 am. The weather was looking good and not too hot and as ever the course was in magnificent shape with the greens very quick but firm and true.
We were stuck behind a Thai five-ball which did slow us down somewhat but it did not spoil anything as we took in the scenery and it gave your writer ample time to snap a few pics. It all came to a grinding halt after 12 holes as the heavens opened when we were on the fairway on B4 but even though we could see the green flooding ahead we were confident that things would clear up. Sure enough, 20 minutes later the rain stopped and we proceeded to B4 green, waited about 10 minutes for it to drain so we could putt and we were on our merry way again in fine conditions.
With the fairways draining extremely quickly and the greens not posing any further problems we proceeded and completed our full round in just over four hours & thirty minutes. It had been a super day despite the downpour and with excellent company it reinforced our decision to make Burapha a monthly event on our calendar for the next five months or so.
We were able to have 2 Grades with three podium spots in each. A Grade was for handicaps 0 to 23 and B Grade for 24 and over. There were rewards for nearest the pins on all the par threes and longest first putts on the A9 & B9 greens.
It was tight at the top in the A Grade with 2 golfers having 39 points and Mike Allidi’s 71 off the stick (18 point back nine) was only good enough to get him second spot with Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei (22 point back nine) finishing in first spot. Another count back was required to determine third spot with Paul “Hacky” Hack (19 point back nine) getting the chocolates over Mike “Hunter” Gosden ( 16 point back nine).
The B Grade section was very well won by Fred Dinely with 40 points, 6 points clear of Gary Monley in second place and Sandy “Leiperfrog” Leiper was third with 29 points.
A Flight (0-23)
1st Alain Taddei (17) 39pts
2nd Mike Allidi (2) 39pts
3rd Paul Hack (12) 35pts
B Flight (24+)
1st Fred Dineley (27) 40pts
2nd Gary Monley (36) 34pts
3rd Sandy Leiper (34) 29pts
Near Pins: A3 – Sal Brizzi, A6 – Mike Allidi, B3 – Alain Taddei, B8 - Mike Allidi
Long Putts: A9 – Mike Gosden, B9 – Alain Taddei
The Growling Swan NAGA Award was once again won by Growling Swan Mine Host Peter Grey who naturally accepted the award in terrific spirit and wore the red cap for a very long time back at the bar. Andrew “Turtle” Allen was kind enough to parade Deefa the Dog who collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya.
After the usual post mortem on the day’s event, with everyone singing the praises of the Burapha Golf Course, the conversation turned to discuss the upcoming Growling Swan First Anniversary tournament at Crystal Bay on Monday, June 10th. It will be a four-ball Stableford event with a random draw pairing an A Grade golfer with a B Grade golfer, the draw to be done at the course prior to commencement of play.
The entry fee is 500 baht which will include terrific prizes and a sumptuous meal back at The Growling Swan where the presentations will be held. The sign-up sheet is on the board at The Growling Swan and although we have initially 32 spots we can accommodate more if required.
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].

Evans has all the answers

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Andy Rich
I guess it is inevitable that with the drop in numbers during the low season that the same names keep appearing at the top of the leader boards in the weekly competitions, and this past week was no exception. Still, you have to admire those golfing fanatics that can turn out for four competitions in one week, taking on all-comers and more especially the heat. Either that or they are all completely bonkers,

Rod Ewan - winner at Green Valley.

On Monday 20th May it was off to the Navy course at Plutaluang (North and West) for the TRGG regulars and just for once a new name appeared on top of the pile. Ally Walker (H/cap 14) outplayed everybody else, hitting the No.1 spot with a commendable 38pts. He was, however, followed home by two of our regular prizewinners: Ted Senior (15) played to his handicap and took second place with 36pts and Derek Thorogood (16) showed that his recent supersight surgery operation is paying dividends by taking the No.3 spot with 33.
Green Valley was the venue on Tuesday 21st May and it was Rod Ewan (12) who improved on his third place on the previous Friday by taking the winner’s green jacket, shooting 38pts. Ted Senior (15) again finished second for the second day running with 37pts and John Baxter (13) showed that even a cut in his handicap was not going to keep him out of the prize money, taking third place with 34pts.
Phoenix (Ocean/Mountain courses) provided our usual Thursday golf on 23rd May and it was the old stagers turn to walk off with the prize money. Captain of the Tuesday night quiz team, Alan Evans (25), answered all the questions correctly and finished with 37pts, which was only just good enough to take first place from Rod Ewan (12), also on 37pts but losing out on count back. Billy Allan (14) slipped into third place with 35pts.

Alan Evans - winner at Phoenix.

Friday 24th May saw the smallest turnout of the week take on Eastern Star, so perhaps the hot weather did take its toll on a number of our regulars. Certainly by the look of the scores returned it had an effect.
Tony Molloy (15) took over the yellow jersey (a cycling term I know) by peddling into first place with 32pts. Mr. Supersight Derek Thorogood (16) finished the week as he started it, in the prize money, taking second place with 31pts and Mod Chaviraksa (12) kept the ladies in the frame taking third with 30.
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week!

It’s a doddle for Doody at Green Valley

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Wednesday players at Pattaya Country Club: (from left standing) Eddie O’Neill, John White, Joe Tynan, Jinjo O’Neill, Pottsy, Nigel Cannon, Chad, Jack, Turnip, (and seated) Dave Earthrowl, Colonel Bob, John Aylott, Craig & Geoff Moodie.

Monday, May 20, Burapha - Stableford
Twenty-four Outbackers were pleased to be back on A & B at last, after the disappointment over the condition of the greens on C & D the previous week.
Paul Rodgers’ golf continues to improve as he took the premier division with 38pts from Jon Haugen (37pts), who we welcome back after an absence of almost exactly one year. Jon brought with him his lady, Esara, who also so played well to take third place in Div B with 32pts.
Greg Hill won Div B with 35 from Andy Makara in second with 33.
There were two ‘2’s, both on the 12th (B3) from Lee Grace and Steve Plant.
Div A (0-15)
1st Paul Rodgers (14) 38pts
2nd Jon Haugen (9) 37pts
3rd John Cunningham (7) 37pts
Div B (16+)
1st Greg Hill (18) 35pts
2nd Andy Makara (27) 33pts
3rd Esara Duangsti (36) 32pts
Wednesday, May 22, Khao Kheow – Stableford
Not a bad turnout for the time of year, with three groups (12 players), at Khao Kheow today. Suzi, once again demonstrated her like for this course, winning by three with 37pts from John O’Keefe (34), Joe Mooneyham (32) and Andy Makara on 31. Remember also, that Suzi is playing off a handicap which is 2 shots below her actual PSC handicap, to even up the odds; so you guys out there had better pull up your socks.
Finally, welcome to Kim Danboise, first day out with the Outback.

Friday’s B Div winner Kathy Doody with husband Geoff.

John O’Keefe got the only ‘2’.
1st Suzi Lawton (17) 37pts
2nd John O’Keefe (16) 34pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (15) 32pts
4th Andy Makara (27) 31pts
Wednesday, May 22, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford
Last year Pattaya Country Club closed the back 9 holes for seven months for substantial refurbishment. The Outback, who had supported PCC for a number of years, decided that when the course returned to 18 holes that the work on the back 9 was not of the quality expected and would have been difficult to take tourists to such a course so did not include it on its schedule. Work is still continuing on this back 9, including replacing all the sand in the bunkers, but there is still a long way to go.
In March this year the front was closed and all holes from tee to green were dug up to be re-laid. The notice says that the full 18 holes should be open at the end of the year – this seems a little ambitious! Work has started on the entrance and some piling for a new clubhouse also looks as though it is about to start but the rig has done nothing for a week – but the piles are there!
There are a few Outbackers who are members of PCC who continue to play the course with only one 9 – from white tees then blue tees. On most days they are the only players since the rates asked are not in line with the conditions on offer – including carts on paths only!
On this day, Wednesday, May 22, those members were joined by General Jack, this being a special day since it was to be John White’s last game before he returned to Ireland for a few months. John arrived with a goody bag for all – fruit and balls and off went the 14 players marshalled by the Wednesday organiser Pottsy, a.k.a. Campbell Potts.
There were 2 flights, 0 to 22 and 23+ and John Aylott headed the premier flight with an even par 36 points to finish ahead of Bob Pearce (35pts) and General Jack on 32.
‘B’ Flight’s Joe Tynan recorded the top score of the day, 38 points off his 34 handicap, to take top honours in that division while John White (35pts) took second and Geoff Moodie (31pts) third.
Following the game it was drinks all round provided by John with lots friendly banter. The staff at PCC are still a friendly crew, which must be difficult with so few players.
Friday, May 24, Green Valley – Stableford
31 players at Green Valley, fantastic for a holiday, but it’s somewhat disappointing that the management will give the Outback no concession at all and want to charge the full holiday rate for non-members, hiking the rate up by 450 baht, which includes the full rate for a cart; unlike other courses which we play regularly, which charge us the same rate, whether holiday or not. But we will keep working on it!
The course was reported to be in great ‘nick’, as reflected by the amazing scores, even though the greens may have been a little slow. Imagine four players all scoring 37pts in Div A and not one of them making the podium, and also in Div B where there were three players on 36pts and they didn’t make it (the podium) either.
Top score of the day came from Kathy Doody with 41pts to win Div B; she also collected two of the three ‘2’s. Kathy beat Keith Allen, who was second with 39pts on a count back from Jimmy Little, with the “Old Man” Geoff Doody back in fourth on 38.
Paul Bourke filled the top spot in Div B with 40, ahead of John Cunningham on 39, who beat John Stafford on count back. John would have to be a little disappointed to finish third after making a mess of the last four holes, with four one pointers.
There were three ‘2’s; one by the winner of Div A, Paul Bourke on the 4th and two from the winner of Div B, Kathy Doody on the 12th & 16th.
Div A (0-17)
1st Paul Bourke (10) 40pts
2nd John Cunningham (7) 39pts
3rd John Stafford (17) 39pts
4th Bob St. Aubin (13) 38pts
Div B (18+)
1st Kathy Doody (18) 41pts
2nd Keith Allen (18) 39pts
3rd Jimmy Little (19) 39pts
4th Geoff Doody (24) 38pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. Call Jack on 081 578 1956.

Hal feasts on Lobster Hawaiian

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, May 20, Pattana A & B – Stableford
CSS 76 NC
1st Don Everett (21) 38pts
2nd Hal Hart (22) 33pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (13) 31pts
4th Shuichi Kodaka (16) 29pts
5th Rodney Nabbe (10) 28pts
It was a very good week of golf playing under clear skies and cooled by light winds and the scores were generally very good, excepting for the first of the week’s tests over the pristine A and B courses of the exceptional Pattana course, which is now just a short 35 minutes drive from The Haven.

Hal Hart.
The recent heavy rains had left the course a bit wet in places making the course considerably longer, especially for the higher handicappers and the returned cards showed the story with the CSS for the day going out to 76 from a par of 73, ensuing that no player’s handicap would be increased for the day.
Don Everett was one of those high handicappers but showed great determination and some prodigious hitting, both from the tees and fairways, to return a two-under score that was better by five than his nearest rival and he easily took the top step at the presentations.
Hal Hart was the nearest contender at three-over in second place as he also showed that there were possibly better things to come in the near future.
Trevor Schirmer took the first of his three mentions in the week with his worst return for third place, which underlined the difficulty of the day, while Shuichi Kodaka placed fourth.
One of the lowlights of the day was Rodney Nabbe’s thin one out of the bunker, and with a choice of three carts to hit, he struck his own cart for a two shot penalty and then failed to score from an unplayable lie. This took him out of contention early in the round but he still did enough to take fifth place.

Don Everett.
Once again there were no 2’s in the first division but Shuichi Kodaka made it many happy returns as he cleaned out the rollover second division pool.
Prior to the presentations there were welcome backs for Shuichi Kodaka and John Wood, the latter who was just back from Blighty having watched Maggie’s funeral on his own while Phil Stevenson sat steadfastly with his back to the telly in protest wearing his miners helmet and leather apron.
Wednesday, May 22, Greenwood - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Darryl Kellett (16) 37pts
2nd Rodney Nabbe (10) 37pts
3rd Seppo Sadeharju (25) 34pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (13) 33pts
5th Rick Holmes (14) 33pts
Greenwood is now one of the group’s firm favourites, being only another five minutes drive past Pattana and with its great layout and condition allied to very competitive prices, 1,000 baht for walkers; it always gets a good turnout.
On yet another good day for golf and the course having, as it always does, recovered extremely well from the recent wet weather, the scores were pretty good ensuring that the CSS for the day went down to 71.

Darryl Kellett.
With plenty of practice behind him it was not surprising when Rodney Nabbe opened the door for Darryl Kellett to close off another win with a better count back of 22 to 18 after they both returned one-under handicap cards, with Rodney scoring a one-pointer on the last as Darryl wrote down a par for three points.
Seppo Sadeharju has obviously spent some time whilst away on the driving range as he showed some unusual ability with just a sole zero on the card, which pushed him into third place ahead of Trevor Schirmer in fourth after Trevor had won a count back over Rick Holmes with a better 16 to 15 return on the back nine.
Again there were no 2’s in the first division but Darryl Kellett slipped one in to claim the second division pool.
Back at The Haven there were welcome backs for Mick Bogunovich, Rick Holmes, Seppo Sadeharju and Mike Dabanovich.
Friday, May 24, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
CSS 73
1st Hal Hart (22) 42pts
2nd Mick Bogunovich (36) 36pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (13) 34pts
4th Alwyne Burley (15) 32pts
5th Darryl Kellett (16) 32pts
Visakha Bucha meant that although it was a bank holiday the course was not very busy, with many of the local golfers attending their favourite wat to celebrate this very holy day for all Buddhists. This left the course almost totally clear and resulted in a very acceptable four hour round for most of the players.
Hal Hart has been having a fine time recently wagering with some of his fellow competitors on their individual scores and having cleaned out a few of them on Monday he went the full hog on Friday with his best score in Thailand. On his way to his lowest ever handicap, Hal beat the field by six and his two fellow wagerers by eight and ten respectively to set up his favourite winners meal of Lobster Hawaiian furnished by the proceeds of the day.
Hal’s fine round showed no zeros, just two 1-pointers and three 3-pointers and three 4-pointers, indicating that he will soon be heading for an even lower handicap to add to the two shot drop that he had earned on the day’s result.
Another comparatively great round was returned by Mick Bogunovich in second place as he went dizzyingly low for what was also his best score in Thailand and with a couple of zeros on the card it indicates that there is still some improvement to come in the future.
Trevor Schirmer took his third placing of the week with his best score as he vainly tried to keep up with Hal in their side competition but too many missed chances cost him dear in the run in to the end.
Alwyne Burley was hoping to replenish some of his expenditure incurred during his working holiday but also had to accept a financial mugging from the winner by some distance, but still managed to win a count back over Darryl Kellett for fourth spot with a better 21 to 17 after a disastrous start to his round.
There were no 2’s in the second division but at last the first division was taken as Trevor Schirmer and Alwyne Burley made up some of their losses to Hal on the day with one apiece.
Before the presentations were made the were welcome backs for Phillip Cass and Alwyne Burley, the latter almost exhausted from his trek to the far north to overview his family’s estates and distribute alms to the local needy. Next visit he is quite hopeful that he will be getting some sort of mention in the will.
There was also a farewell for Allan Heavey, returning to Oz for a few weeks to earn enough to return as soon as possible.
With the holiday having been designated a non-alcohol day, the weary after presentation revelers settled for copious quantities of tea and coffee to pass the hours prior to departure.
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 that you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played can be found on our web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com.

Slow play fails to faze Larry

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

On Monday, 20th May the Pattaya Golf Society visited Bangpra to play a stableford competition on the quality course which was in fine condition with deliciously quick greens. However the prospects of some quality time with friends on a fine golf course were diminished with the appearance on the tee of a couple of Korean holiday golf groups. The ensuing round thus lasted five hours in the current heat and humidity, despite the intervention of course marshalls at one stage.
However, the latest round of the annual All-Asian “Slow Bicycle Championships” failed to faze Larry Ang as he proceeded to grind out 32 points for an eventual win. Probably the Asian heritage in his blood! Following Larry were Ken Grimes (31) and Robbie Taylor (30) and both Ken and Larry also recorded birdie ‘2’s on the eighth.
Pre-round favourite Dave Edwards suffered more than most with the interminable delays on every shot and he descended into a nether world where he managed to average less than a point a hole and he received the Booby Bevy for his pains. Low season golf should not be like that and nothing will change until on-course staff do their job effectively.
Green Valley first for Plaiter
The Pattaya Golf Society took its first opportunity to visit Green Valley this year on Wednesday, 22nd May and found the quality course in excellent condition, the club using the upcoming Thai PGA event to show off the course at its best. Understandably the greens were being protected and the slight “overgrowth” made them slower than normal but a course, devoid of golfers from 10:45am, except for the Soi Buakhao based group, was such a welcome relief after the trials at Bangpra two days before.
With the near perfect conditions it was no surprise that the group all managed to score thirty points or more for the first time in many years, with Alan Flynn, Sam McLellan and Ken Grimes all recording 35 points for a share of third place. In second, making his IPGC competition debut, was Aussie Craig Thomas with 36 points. The winner was Dave Plaiter and his 37 points was a return to the form he was in two months ago.
There were no birdie ‘2’s and Peter Allen took Rabbi’s free beer draw with relish whilst Larry Ang, the winner of the previous competition, took the Booby Bevy for his descent from hero to zero with his low mark of thirty points.
The day was as enjoyable as any had been this year and hopefully the next month’s PGS rounds there will be as good.
Purdie and Plaiter polish at Emerald
On Friday, 24th May the Pattaya Golf Society visited the Emerald club in Ban Chang to play a stableford event on the biggest Buddhist holiday of the year. However the golfers got off to an early start and steady progress was made throughout on the course which saw sanded greens yet again.
Mark West managed 34 points for third place on a course he loves whilst Andrew Purdie and Dave Plaiter stole the show with scores of 38 points each. There were no birdie ‘2’s and Rabbi’s free “darjeeling” (no alcohol, remember) was won by the man himself! The Booby Bevy went to Craig Thomas for the fourth best score of the day which just missed out on the awards.
The presentation was naturally a muted affair but the new week brings fresh anticipation of good golf on quality courses.

Newbert proves unbeatable again

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Ian Brimble with the ‘Montauk Mauler’ Mike Newbert.
Steve Ellison
Monday, May 20, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford
1st Mike Newbert (10) 42pts
2nd Sugar Ray Handford (17) 41pts
3rd Robert Hunt (21) 39pts
4th Bob Ninneman (14) 37pts
Mike Newbert on the podium is getting to sound like a broken record (remember those things?) but he is on a roll like nobody else this year. Mike has been working at improving his game and the effort has paid off… his handicap keeps dropping and he still keeps on winning.
Sugar Ray was nipping at his heels but just shy of victory one shot back, turning in a very respectable 41 points which would be a winner on any other day. Sorry Sugar!
This was also the day we had to say goodbye to our buddy Ken Aihara, who was leavin’ on a jet plane back to Japan. Ken played very well this season and made a great adversary to Mike, and we will see how things shape up for next year’s comps. This was one of the few times Kenny did not score with the handsome man vouchers. Sayonara Kenny!

Bobby Ninneman, Mike Newbert and Robert Hunt.
Also boarding the jetway was our pal from the beautiful Hawaiian shores, Mr. Bobby Ninneman. Bob was staying at one of our condos at The Avenue this trip as it was a break from his full time gig at the Hilton. Nice to see you again Bob, enjoy paradise back home and Aloha! Robert Hunt found himself in the frame with a terrific 39 points to tie with Bobby for 3rd. Well played boys, and thanks to all 26 of you for joining us.
Tuesday, May 21, Mountain Shadow (white tees) - Stableford
1st Ian Brimble (8) 42pts
2nd Mike Newbert (10) 36pts
3rd Suparp Konboon (9) 32pts
It is rare that I meet someone with an accent that is harder to figure out than mine, but the Englishman who has been living in Texas for yonks took top spot on today’s roster with a blistering 42 points. But then, it is going to take a 42 point round to beat Mike Newbert the way he has been playing. There was then a big gap down to 3rd spot and Suparp got a surprise at the presentation when we discovered 32 points were good enough for a podium position.
Thursday, May 23, Crystal Bay A & C (white tees) – Stableford
1st Mike Newbert (10) 40pts
2nd Ian Brimble (8) 39pts
3rd Bill Hornick (12) 36pts
So many courses, so little time! We certainly are blessed with a variety of options when it comes down to choosing where we play. Crystal Bay is always one of the better choices and has proved to be very popular with the golfers here at The Golf Club. It is a fair test for all handicaps and you can usually count on this course being in great condition. This is the sister course to where we played just 2 days ago, Mountain Shadow. With those three tall condo towers, it is an easy golf course to remember.
Today was another beautiful morning and the lads were looking forward to the day’s comp. Earlier this month was hot and sticky, which is usual for May, but it is now less humid and those couple of degrees lower on the thermometer make all the difference.
As with Tuesday, Ian Brimble and Mike Newbert had their game on. When you have good competition out there it raises your game to a higher level and it sure is a lot of fun to swap blows with birdies. With Ian playing off 8 and Mike off 10, it was a great comp and a pretty level playing field. In the end, it was just one stroke that separated these guys and Mike had the good fortune to end up on top.
Ian is off now back to Houston (we had to drag him into the taxi kicking and screaming) and will be back with us in November to spend that hard earned oil money back here in Pattaya. It was also good to get him his Monthly Medal shirt he won from last trip and can add to his suitcase to parade bragging rights back at his home course. Cheers mate, and have a good trip back!
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We try to schedule summer “Sports Days”, 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: [email protected] and see updates at www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya ... all handicaps welcome!

JTB Charity Classic Golf Tournament

Thursday, June 13th at Green Valley G.C., Rayong

Format: 2-Person Scramble with Shotgun Start at 12 Noon.
Entry Fee: 1,000 Baht (includes Green Fee and Caddy Fee, all prizes)
Note: All golf course fees have already been pre-paid by the tournament organizer. Therefore ALL entry fees collected from the players will be donated to the Camillian Care Home in Rayong

Registration should be completed by June 5th.
Sign up at [email protected] or
through your local golf organizer in Pattaya.

Prizes kindly donated by: Classroom A-Go-Go, Pattaya Sports Club, Players Lounge, Maerskoil, Roger Bishop, Mark Wood, Mick Beresford, Thursday Thrashers (Qatar), David Elliott and Patrick Lawlor.

Pattaya 9-Ball Ball Pool League

Results & Standings May 23 (week 21)

Team Played Won Lost Drawn Pts.

Cheers 20 14 2 4 32

Buddy’s Bar 21 15 5 1 31

Party Girls 20 12 6 2 26

Legends 16 10 4 2 22

Wet Bar 20 10 8 2 22

George n Dragon 18 9 7 2 20

FCUK 19 7 9 3 17

The Ranch 18 6 9 3 15

Queen Vic 19 5 12 2 12

Simple Simon 17 4 10 3 11

Irish Rover 18 3 10 5 11

Rioja 18 2 14 2 6

Results: FCUK 10 v 10 Party Girls, Wet Bar 11 v 9 Queen Vic, Cheers 10 v 10 Irish Rover, Buddy’s Bar 11 v 9 The Ranch, Legends P v P Rioja, George n Dragon P v P Simple Simon

Dolphins taste another defeat in Chainat

Pattaya United in action against Chainat at the Khao Plong Stadium, Sunday, May 26. (Photo/Pattaya United/Offside)
Pattaya United fell to their tenth Thai Premier League defeat of the season last Sunday as they were overpowered 4-2 by Chainat FC at the Khao Plong Stadium.
The home team took the lead in the 7th minute of the match when forward Somjet Sattabud smartly turned in a right-wing cross from Kerdkaew, but Pattaya hit back on the half hour mark as Efe Obode took a neat return pass from Dyachenko and fired low and hard into the Chainat net.
It looked as though both teams would go in level at the break but 3 minutes before half-time the hosts struck again as some slack marking in the United defence allowed Sattabud space to notch his second.
Things got worse for United after the restart as first Welshman Michael Byrne fired an unstoppable 25-yard bullet past Pattaya goalkeeper Wichan in the 50th minute to extend Chainat’s lead and they effectively sealed all three points 10 minutes later when Purisai emulated Byrne’s effort, scoring his team’s fourth goal with a curving shot from the edge of the penalty area.
United’s scant consolation came with a second goal deep into injury time as Dolphins’ captain Niweat Siriwong scored with a fine free-kick.
With the five clubs immediately above United all having a game in hand, the Pattaya club are already deeply entrenched in a battle against relegation with the season not even halfway through. The Dolphins next match is away to Songkhla United on Sunday, June 2.

Team P W D L +/- Pts.

Muang Thong United 12 10 1 1 14 31

Buriram United 11 8 3 0 18 27

Chonburi 11 7 3 1 10 24

Suphanburi 12 6 4 2 7 22

BEC Tero Sasana 11 5 5 1 7 20

Chainat 12 4 6 2 4 18

TOT 12 5 3 4 -1 18

Bangkok Glass 12 5 2 5 1 17

Army United 11 4 3 4 6 15

Songkhla United 12 3 6 3 -5 15

Police United 11 2 5 4 -5 11

Ratchaburi 11 2 4 5 -4 10

Osotspa 11 2 4 5 -7 10

Samut Songkhram 11 1 5 5 -5 8

Chiangrai United 11 1 5 5 -7 8

Pattaya United 12 2 0 10 -15 6

Bangkok United 12 1 2 9 -14 5

Sisaket 3 0 1 2 -4 1

Results: Sisaket P v P Ratchaburi, Songkhla United 1 v 1 Chonburi, Chiangrai United 0 v 3 BEC Tero Sasana, Police United 1 v 1 Osotspa, Buriram United 3 v 0 Army United, Bangkok Glass 3 v 1 Bangkok United, Suphanburi 3 v 1 TOT, Chainat 4 v 2 Pattaya United, Muang Thong United 2 v 1 Samut Songkhram

Team Mahan take low-gross title at St. Andrews golf tourney

Just time for a team photo before the shotgun-start.

On Saturday 18th May, St. Andrews International School hosted their Third Annual Golf Tournament at Green Valley Golf and Country Club which kicked off with a bang in a shotgun start.
Competitors of all ages and abilities took to the course in a two-man scramble team event including eight year old Fifa, who is ranked second in the world in his age group, who teamed up with St. Andrews Head of School Andy Harrison. They finished the day with a very competitive one under par total
The tournament was also supported heavily with 14 members of Ford management and the Pattaya Cricket Club were amongst others participating.

Andrew Harrison, Head of St. Andrews International School, strides to the green.

Organizers would like to send a huge thanks to all the sponsors: Holiday Inn, Kaochareon Transport, Cognita and The St. Andrews Golf Center.
Congratulations to the team winners who were Team Mahan from ISE with a score of 64 to take the gross title ahead of Team La King (66) and Team Regents (67), while Chelsea Rayong were the net winners with a handicap adjusted score of net 60, with American Pikey (net 63) taking second and Regents Rockets (net 64) in third.

Ian Frew takes his first putt of the day.

Golden Garden all-stars break school’s medals’ record

Garden International School’s sports stars brought home a record medal haul from the annual Primary FOBISSEA Games.

Robert Edwards
Garden International School’s sporting all-stars have brought home a record medal haul from the annual Primary FOBISSEA Games.
The GIS team, consisting of 21 students and three teachers, won dozens of medals at the Primary FOBISSEA Games, which were held at St Stephen’s International School in Bangkok from May 7-11. Having done brilliantly in swimming, athletics and other events, they came home with the highest ever medal tally in the history of GIS.
The team travelled to Bangkok on May 7 for three days of competition, which included athletics, swimming, T-Ball and football. On the first morning the track and field events took place at the Thai Royal Air Force Stadium; GIS students produced excellent results, bringing home a total of 37 medals.
For the afternoon session the students moved to the swimming pool and again GIS performed exceptionally well, winning a total of 51 medals.
Moving to the second day of competition, the students competed in the T-ball event. The GIS Year 4 team finished in third place to claim the bronze medal. The Year 5 team played very well and were unlucky in a number of games not to be in the final mix for the medal placings.
On the final day, the team participated in the football event. Garden’s Year 6 girls were very strong and stormed to victory to win the gold medal. Both the Year 4 and Year 5 boys’ teams faced strong opposition from other schools and were again unlucky not to finish in the top three. The Year 5 boys played St Andrews and beat them 1-0 to secure a fantastic victory in a local derby game. Two GIS girls from Year 4 joined SIS and came in third to receive a bronze medal.
Many thanks to Ms Lucy for her help with preparing the athletic team, Mr Grisdale with the football squads and Ms Aletta with the swimming team.
A big thank you also to Garden’s sponsors of the sports uniform. They are: Thunder Cranes, Victory International Family Church, Aimon of Thomai Resort and Coffee Shop, Yindee of MYWAYS and James from GIS who supplied the swimming kits.
FOBISSEA is the Federation of British Schools in South East Asia (and East Asia), which currently consists of 38 schools - with plans to grow quite markedly over the next few years. Being a member of the federation gives students many opportunities to participate in sporting games and other festivals (such as music, choral and drama), conferences (such as Community Service and Model United Nations) and competitions (such as Short Story and Mathematics).

WKD Tuesday Darts League

Results & Standings May 21 (week 2)

Team P W L B/legs Pts.

Shoot Pool Roxy 2 2 0 2 4

W. Tankies 2 2 0 2 4

Mee Chew Sports Bar 2 2 0 1 4

Irish Rovers 2 2 0 1 4

Crazy Eddies 2 1 1 1 2

Jantha Coffee House 2 1 1 1 2

Londoner 2 1 1 1 2

Scandalic 2 1 1 1 2

Yates Bar 2 1 1 1 2

Cum On Inn 2 1 1 0 2

Buffalo Jack’s 2 0 2 1 0

Mai’s Bar 2 0 2 1 0

Nervous Wreck 2 0 2 1 0

Shoot Pool 2 0 2 0 0

Results: Buffalo Jack’s 3 v 9 Scandalic, Crazy Eddies 6 v 4 Jantha Coffee House, Cum On Inn 4 v 2 Mai’s Bar, Nervous Wreck 2 v 7 Mee Chew Sports Bar, Scandalic 1 v 8 Shoot Pool Roxy, Shoot Pool 2 v 13 Irish Rovers, Yates Bar 7 v 6 Londoner

City wilt in the heat

Bangkok Casuals Football League Div. 1
Paul Frain
Pattaya City Football Club were on their travels last weekend to play second placed The Londoner, who needed to win to keep their hopes alive of taking this year’s championship.
After City’s Paul Fox fired wide from a good position early on, The Londoner put heavy pressure on the City defense but a succession of free headers were wasted. The City keeper was called into action with two good saves but The Londoner still missed good chances, the best being to their forward who robbed a City defender and with only the keeper to beat he blasted the ball over the bar.
The Londoner continued the barrage on the City goal but at half time the score still stood 0-0. The second half started much as the first finished with The Londoner putting the pressure on the City defense and long shots raining down on the goal. It was inevitable that the breakthrough would come, and when the City defense failed to make an effective clearance, Londoner’s Osboure picked up the loose ball and shot past the stranded Pattaya keeper to make it 1-0.
Almost immediately The Londoner doubled their score when a curling shot by Almond deceived the City keeper to make it 2-0. City’s keeper was kept in constant action and made another fine save soon after, but he was powerless to prevent The Londoner from scoring a third goal when Almond flicked the ball home.
The hosts were on the rampage at this stage and a shot by Grant was only partially parried by the City goalkeeper and the ball fell to a Londoner forward who tapped it home to make the score 4-0. The home team had scored four goals in six minutes and soon added a fifth when Grant scored his second of the match with a shot from outside the area.
City had a chance of their own to pull a goal back but Emery’s shot was cleared off the line and to compound the visitors misery, The Londoner score two further goals before the end of the match through Prenenty and Massey to make the final score 7-0.

Pattaya Cricket Club lose semi-final thriller

PCC’s season ended disappointingly with a nail-biting 2-run defeat to Champions of Bangkok in the semi-final of the Bangkok Cricket League on Sunday, May 19.
A torrential downpour an hour before the start of the 25-over game ensured the outfield at the Thai Polo Club in Pattaya would be very wet, despite the best efforts of ground staff and players using buckets, plastic bags and tissues (when a helicopter was really needed) to mop up the ‘swimming pool’ that covered the ground.
When play eventually got underway, PCC inserted the opposition and Salman and Henry exerted early pressure but without taking any wickets and the openers Girish and Jiten gradually gained in confidence. Thomas made the breakthrough bowling Jiten for 28 and Mithu continued the good work with his tight off spin.
14 year-old Hamza then removed both Rajesh and Swapnil in quick succession as the Champions seemed to be struggling to post a competitive total. Finally Girish was caught behind for a well crafted 45 and Chetan hit a breezy 26 not out to push the Champions to 142 for 8.

Pattaya Cricket Club’s Simon Philbrook (center) hits out against the Champions bowling attack during the Bangkok Cricket League semi-final at Thai Polo Club in Pattaya, Sunday, May 19.

Sadly, PCC’s nemesis struck again as 3 catches were spilled in the outfield and had they been held it would surely have meant a much lower total would have been required.
John Spiers and Dan opened the innings for Pattaya but both struggled to dominate the bowling. Dan succumbed to Jenti for 9 but skipper Simon Philbrook soon increased the run rate as he used his feet to hit consistently straight down the ground.
PCC lost John (11), Salman (1), John G (1) and Mithu (0) in the space of 13 deliveries to put Champions in charge but Holty (16) showed some application to support Simon who was trying to carry the innings. Thomas continued the rearguard action but Simon finally succumbed to increasing pressure and fatigue as he was caught on the mid wicket boundary for 53.
With Thomas and Andy still batting well (and making the top order feel very uncomfortable) the target was achievable. Unfortunately, Thomas (18) was bowled by Jenti and with 3 runs needed from the final 3 deliveries Andy was run out by a direct hit and PCC were 140 all out.
It was a thrilling finale to a game that was PCC’s last league game of the season but will surely galvanise the team to go one better next term.
For all Pattaya Cricket Club info, visit website: pattaya [email protected]. Players of all abilities are very welcome.