K-1 World MAX 2014 kicks off in Pattaya Oct. 11

Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome accepts tickets from Natthaphol Dechvithak, GM of Solana Marketing, during the announcement of the upcoming the K-1 World MAX 2014 World Championship Tournament Final.

Jetsada Homklin
Two-time featherweight kickboxing champion Buakaw Banchamek will try to recapture his title for the first time in eight years when the K-1 World MAX 2014 World Championship Tournament Final comes to Pattaya Oct. 11.
The winner of the K-1 championship in 2004 and 2006 - as well a two-time Omnoi Stadium champion and Thailand Featherweight champ - will face off against Germany’s Enriko Kehl, ranked third in the World Boxing Council Muay Thai organization.
Held for the first time in Thailand, the final originally was scheduled for July 26, but delayed due to the May 22 military coup.
Fighters in K-1 organization fights battle in a style similar to Muay Thai, but the bouts use different rules and point systems and fewer moves are allowed, leading aficionados to call K-1 a “watered down” version of the Thai-originated sport.
The competition will be held at the Eastern National Indoor Sports Stadium on Soi Chaiyapruek 2 from 6 p.m. to midnight. Ticket prices range from 1,000-10,000 baht and the match will be broadcast on Channel 7 and the Internet at K-1.tv.

Motocross racers kick up dirt at Mabprachan

AMotocross racers in the national MX 2 Open category kick up the dirt and take to the air.

Jetsada Homklin
Motocross racers kicked up the dirt in 19 races at Nongprue Cycle Cross 2014 at the Mabprachan Reservoir.
Former Culture Minister Sonthaya Kunplome opened the Sept. 3 competition at the lake’s motocross stadium with he and Nongprue Mayor Mai Chaiyanit handing out the many trophies and cash prizes.
The tournament was organized to develop skills of young riders both on the bike and in the repair garage. It was hoped it also gave them more skill driving regular motorbikes on the street.
Of the 19 races, the MX2 contest was a national A-Grade competition. The winner there was Chaiyan Romepan from the Yamaha Sing Hung Modify Team.
Second place went to Thanarat Penchan from the Kawasaki 71 Team, third place to Jakornklit Souksripaisan from the Honda Prawet Workshop Team and fourth place to Arongsak Phinpon from the Honda Pornpiangjaipirom Team.

Pattaya confirmed as host for FIVB Beach Volleyball tourney

Some of the world’s best female beach volleyball stars will be in action in Pattaya at the FIVB Challenger tournament, being held from 5–9 November 2014.

Pentangle Promotions Co., Ltd will hold a FIVB women’s international beach volleyball tournament in Pattaya from 5–9 November this year.
An originally planned World Tour tournament was cancelled earlier this year as the traditional venue on Karon Beach, Phuket is being used for the Asian Beach Games, which are being held during the same time period. However a new venue has been found in Central Pattaya to stage a US$50,000 FIVB Challenger tournament, which sees the return of International beach volleyball to the popular beach resort after a break of 10 years.
The event will see teams from Asia, Australasia and Europe competing against the top Thai teams for theUS$11,000 winner’s purse and 160 FIVB World ranking points.
All main draw matches on the 2,000 seat centre court are to be televised on CTH TV Sport Spirit channel and in addition to the action on-court an activity zone will be set-up at the venue to provide entertainment and booth space for the tournament sponsors.
The FIVB Beach Volleyball Challenger is being organized in conjunction with the Federation Internationale de Volleyball, the Thailand Volleyball Association and Sportmaster Co., Ltd.
Further information on the tournament will be made available at a press conference early in October.

Teens compete in Pattaya Youth Sepak Takraw Tournament

Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantanawaranon (back row, center) presents trophies to all the winners in this year’s Pattaya Youth Sepak Takraw Tournament 2014.

Jetsada Homklin
Teenagers from Pattaya schools won boxes full of trophies at the Pattaya Youth Sepak Takraw Tournament 2014.
Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantanawaranon presided over the awards ceremony Sept. 3 at Pattaya School No. 7.
The event was broken down in categories for ages 12-13, 14-15, and 16. Boys and girls competed separately. Winners received 800 baht for first place, 600 baht for second and 400 baht for third.
For the 16-year-olds boys, Pattaya School No. 6 took first, School No. 1 second and School Nos. 9 and 7 split third. The girls group saw, in order, school 1, 3, and 5 and 9 place.
In the 14-year-old group, School No. 1 placed first, School No. 7 second and School Nos. 6 and 9 third. For the girls, it was School No. 5 first, School No. 3 second and School Nos. 7 and 11 third.
In the 12-year-old boys group, School No. 7 earned first, School No. 9 second and School Nos. 8 and 1 third. The girls winners were schools 3, 9, and 1 and 8.

24th Eastern hotelier sports day kicks off

Organizers and representatives from hotels in Pattaya announce the 24th Hoteliers Sports Tournament.

Jetsada Homklin
Eastern-region hotel employees are battling it out this month in five sports in the 24th Hoteliers Sports Tournament.
The Sept. 4-29 tournament is organized by Pattaya and the Thai Hotels Association - Eastern Chapter. The goal is to create unity among industry workers and fight the influence of drugs.
Competitions this month include football, with 24 teams, senior football, with six teams, men’s volleyball, with 11 teams, women’s volleyball, with eight teams, and mixed petanque, with eight teams.
The football games will be held at the football field of the Isaan Pattaya Association. The petanque competition will be held at Pattaya School 7. The volleyball games will be held at Pattaya School 8.

Count-backs galore at the Valley

PSC golf from The Billabong Golf Bar

William and Neil - Wednesday’s top two
at Green Valley.

Wednesday, Sept. 3,
Green Valley - Stableford
The normal venue of Green Valley today, a beautiful day with just a little high cloud, it only got a bit hot for a while but a great day out all the same.
The course is in magnificent condition even though some of the scores were very low; of the six groups playing there were only nine players that didn’t break 30 points.
We were joined by Alan Wilson, Neil Harvey and Jonathon Pratt playing with the Billabong for the first time, good to see you guys.

Alan and Mal chat it up after a good day at Burapha.

It was a count-back for both third and fourth and for first and second, with Roger Ison getting the nod for third after beating Auke, both with 37 points. Second went to William Macey, being beaten by one of his playing partners, Neil Harvey, once again and both scoring 39 points each.
There were no ‘2’s recorded today, I guess with Cottee and Sel down in Aus there is no one to take up the mantle.
Friday, Sept. 5,
Burapha - Stableford
With just some high cloud and an early start at our fortnightly venue Burapha, we were around in about 3 ½ hours with the rain threatening but not coming, making it a grand day out. Good to see J.J. Harney back in the fold but don’t call him before 8 a.m. if you know what’s good for you.
With the loops of C and D being closed for maintenance for the last few weeks it was a pleasure to play on. The greens were just about perfect and with great lies on the fairways, there was no such thing as a grizzle about anything.
Oddly enough once again there were no two’s although Aaron Smith got exceedingly close. The scores were very good also as we played from the white tees to make it a little easier on everyone.
Alan Cassin got third on a three way count back over Chris Dodd and Bob Philp with 33 points. Coming second was Rosco Langoulant with 37 points but the line honours went to Mal Farquharson with a fantastic 42 points. A great round mate - keep up the good work. It’s amazing what a sober golfer can achieve.
Note: The Billabong is situated just off Siam Country road looking straight down Lake Mabprachan, or call Bob on 0822043411.

Jariya Jareaunsuk wins Jaa Memorial Trophy

Jariya Jareaunsuk won the third annual Jaa Memorial Trophy

Friday, August 29, Khao Kheow A & B Courses - System 36
Friday, August 29, was the third running of the Jaa Memorial Trophy which was inaugurated in memory of Khao Kheow caddy number 065 Jaa Channiang who died very suddenly in January 2011 after contracting Dengue Fever at the very young age of 26 years. Following which, long standing members of the IPGC, based out of the Tara Court venue, donated the trophy, originally by the late Benny O’Connor’s family, green fees and underwrote all expenses for a competition to be held at Khao Kheow for caddies that worked there with her.

In memory of Jaa Channiang.
The event has become very popular, with 53 caddies taking part this year and teeing off at 7 a.m. which meant a very early start for the organizers, but everyone was away on time. Playing from two tees they were all back at the Clubhouse by 12 noon, even though the going was very tough following overnight rain which had left the course extremely wet and added a dimension of difficulty to the already tough A and B courses. This was a good example for the rate of play as many of the contestants were novices which determined that the system 36 scoring method would once again be utilised to find the winner.
Jariya Jareaunsuk was declared the winner following a count back, with Sukanya Samangin having to settle for second after they had both scored a very creditable gross 84 in the wet conditions. Sompis Samangin took third place with a gross 88 and Somsri Yukong fourth with a 90.
In addition to the four place prizes there were four near pins and a long drive also up for grabs.

Joe McArdle presents a special IPGC golf bag, donated by the IPGC in honour of the late golf manager, Suraphol Komuthanond, to winner Jariya Jareaunsuk.
The prize presentations and the buffet, also provided by the Tara Court group, were made in the main clubhouse upstairs at the rear and for many of the contestants it was their first opportunity to be in the “Baan Yai” so the presentation party and buffet was a very exciting occasion.
In addition to the main prizes a special IPGC golf bag, donated by the IPGC, was presented by Joe McArdle, to the winner in honour of the late golf manager, Suraphol Komuthanond, who had recently passed away and who had been a fervent supporter of the event since its inception and of the IPGC and its member groups. Suraphol was remembered fondly by all as a consummate gentleman.
Following in the footsteps of Suraphol, the new manager, Kaneko and his assistant Nin, provided the administration together with many spot prizes to ensure that almost all the players returned home with something in addition to the memory of a great day actually playing golf amongst friends and fellow caddies rather than carrying the bag for others’ enjoyment.
Golfers wishing to avail themselves of a good and knowledgeable caddy when playing at Khao Kheow may like to take note of the numbers of the winners here.
Gross scores
1st Jariya Jareaunsuk (051) 84
2nd Sukanya Samangin (005) 84
3rd Sompis Samangin (001) 88
4th Somsri Yukong (084) 90
Near Pins: A3 Jariya Jareaunsuk (051), A5 Jirapat Samerpong (278), B3 Yupa Ponpaipan (142), B8 Wipawadee Ninnathanon (333).
Long Drive: Jirapat Samerpong (278).

Paul Smith collects two wins and a second place

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Ranch

Reigning Bunker Boys champion Paul Smith gets off to a great start in September.

Monday, September 1, Bangphra G.C. - Stableford
There was heavy rain earlier in the morning in Pattaya and the sky was heavily overcast as we assembled in The Ranch bar, but our golfers were not to be deterred and we set off on the journey to Bangphra in optimistic mood.
There was still very light drizzle falling as we completed registration at the clubhouse, but by the time the first group teed off, the rain had stopped and conditions were almost perfect.
When we played here a couple of weeks ago the fairways were starting to look dry, but today following the recent rain they were green and lush again. The greens were not as vicious as they can be, but were still tricky and perhaps more grainy than when they are at their quickest, which caught out several players on the early holes. The round progressed smoothly and was completed in good time with all four groups back in the clubhouse in a little over four hours.
The scores were disappointing given the ideal conditions, with Raleigh Gosney taking first place on 33 points, one point clear of Paul Smith and Geoff Parker who had to be separated on a countback. John Graham produced the shot of the day on the par three 8th hole, almost carding a hole in one as the ball rolled narrowly past the pin.
At the presentation back at The Ranch Tony Robbins was presented with the August Golfer of the Month trophy and duly rang the bell to refresh the thirsty golfers.
1st Raleigh Gosney (hcp. 16) 33 points
2nd Paul Smith (hcp. 4) 32 points
3rd Geoff Parker (hcp. 15) 32 points
Near Pins: Colin Greig, John Graham, Phil Moore and Paul Smith.
Wednesday, September 3, Treasure Hill G.C. - Stableford
In contrast to the previous few games which were played in overcast conditions, the weather today was bright and sunny when we arrived at the Treasure Hill course. The course was empty and we teed off at our leisure, with the prospect of another great day’s golf ahead of us on a truly testing layout.
The course is in great condition at the moment, but the fairways were a little soft today following recent rain, and the problem we would face soon became evident as the group your scribe was playing in lost balls which pitched on the fairway on both the third and fourth holes. After five minutes of searching it could only be assumed that the balls had plugged and the frustrated golfers were forced to head back to the tee, truly a frustrating experience which fortunately doesn’t happen too often and is something the professionals never have to face with the presence of spotters.
The first three ball was back in the clubhouse in under three and a half hours, but they had opened a three hole lead after nine holes, and the following group were dismayed to see a six ball group sneak in ahead of them on the 10th tee, an all too familiar problem on this course. Fortunately the interlopers were in buggies and didn’t cause a hold up so everyone was back in the clubhouse in reasonable time.
Paul Smith was the only golfer to play to his handicap and duly took first place ahead of Colin Greig with Gerry Cooney, who was playing his final game before his annual visit to the U.K, coming in third place.
1st Paul Smith (hcp. 4) 36 points
2nd Colin Greig (hcp. 7) 32 points
3rd Gerry Cooney (hcp. 13) 31 points
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney, Colin Greig, Paul Smith and Keith Hemmings.
Friday, August 5, Emerald G.C. (Medal) Sponsored by KPK Foods
Another bright and sunny morning as we headed down Sukhumvit Road to Bang Chang, and when we arrived at the clubhouse the course was once again quiet. Our field of twelve golfers were able to tee off at their leisure with no groups in sight ahead of them - the pleasures of low season golf!
It’s fair to say that the course has improved significantly since our previous visit last month, with most of the newly re-turfed areas now well established, and only a few areas of GUR still remain, which were well marked. The greens were slower today but they are never easy, particularly on a medal round, when a misread of the grain and slope can prove very costly.
Paul Smith was the only player who could match his handicap on the day, finishing two strokes clear of the recently returned Dave Ashman in second place. Paul has now collected two wins and a second place from the first three games of the month, which puts him well into the early lead for the September Golfer of the Month title, which he hasn’t won since December 2012.
1st Paul Smith (hcp. 4) net 72
2nd Dave Ashman (hcp. 15) net 74
3rd Geoff Parker (hcp. 15) net 77
Only three near pins were hit: Geoff Parker and Colin Greig (2).
Note: The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf society, who play on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. 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 or check website: www.bunkersociety.com.

Sports Bag: 3 holes in one

Sports Editor;
My wife is a caddy at Green Valley golf course. Last year she made a hole in one on number 7 at Silky Oaks. That tied my hole in one total but I’ve been playing 49 years and she’d only been playing for four years. Good for her.
Two weeks ago she holed out again on number 8 at Green Valley. Green Valley lets the caddies that have qualified for the national caddy championship play the three courses after 3:00 p.m. for free. She takes advantage of this often. Good for Green Valley.
Two days ago I was driving a buggy for my wife at St. Andrews. I’ll be damned if she didn’t make a third hole in one on number 10 at St. Andrews. I think there’s a good chance that no one has yet made holes in one on all three of these courses, until now. What do you think?
I don’t think anyone has ever made holes in one on these three courses that share a clubhouse. The general manager, Nirun, can probably confirm this.
Ted Gardner PSC #28967; my wife is Sasitorn Srithong PSC #36721.
Regards,
Ted

Mike & Marco too good at Bangpra

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Marco Beer, Dave Neal & Mike Allidi.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, Sept. 1, Bangpra - Stableford
Time to return to Bangpra, commonly known as “The Monkey Course” and after a late withdrawal plus one “no show” we were left with a healthy field of 23 ready to take on this challenging layout.
As we met at The Growling Swan welcomes were handed out to Norm Cheetham and Walter Panici, 2 friends of mine from my old golf club Gosnells in Perth, who are both regular visitors to Pattaya. We also said bon voyage to Robert Cross who will shortly be returning to Melbourne.
It was 8.30 a.m. when we left the GS and headed off in our 2 mini-vans and after driving through some rain it was fine when we arrived at the course 46 minutes later. It was quiet as usual and after checking in with our green fee vouchers we were all ready to go and we sent the three-ball off first at 9.50 a.m., which was 10 minutes ahead of schedule.

Bill Steinman, Dennis Jackson, Samorn Tanamsri & Andrew Allen.

The golf course was in great shape with the greens up to their normal tricks and with no-one ahead of our groups we were able to maintain a steady pace. We were subjected to some drizzle for about half an hour after about the third hole but it was nothing really and did not interrupt play or make any difference to the golf course. The three-ball shot away from us and we managed to complete our full round in four hours & fifteen minutes with all enjoying this fine golf course and the company was excellent as ever.
We had 2 divisions - Division A for handicaps 0 to 15 & Division B for golfers on handicaps of 16 and over with three places in each division. There were also rewards for nearest the pin on the par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens.
With two “in form” golfers tied on 37 points a count back was necessary to decide the winner in A Division and Mike Allidi (19 point back nine) finished ahead of Martin “Toddy” Todd (17 point back nine) in second spot with John Davis coming third with 35 points.
In B Division it was Marco Beer who finished on top with a solid 36 points and another count back was needed to decide second & third places with 2 golfers on 34 points. The result was second place being awarded to Alain “Inspector Clouseau” Taddei (21 point back nine) with Thientong Charoenrung (17 point back nine) finishing third.
The Growling Swan NAGA Award for the worst score on the day was won by Dave Neal.
Division A (0-15)
1st Mike Allidi (2) 37pts
2nd Martin Todd (7) 37pts
3rd John Davis (14) 35pts
Division B (16+)
1st Marco Beer (16) 36pts
2nd Alain Taddei (16) 34pts
3rd Thientong Charoenrung (18) 34pts
Near Pins: 2nd - Martin Todd, 8th - Martin Todd, 12th - Walter Panici, 17th - John Pierrel
Long Putts: 9th - Peter Blackburn/Patrick Poussier, 18th - Walter Baechli
Thursday, 4th September4 , Crystal Bay, A & C - Stableford
It was a fine and sunny morning as we made our way to The Growling Swan in readiness for our monthly trip to the Crystal Bay Golf Course and after a late withdrawal due to family illness and two late inclusions we were left with a healthy field of 29.
We welcomed back our good friend Nolan Wise from Australia, Paul Moloney from his work in West Africa, Bill Hewitt & his lady Samorn Tamamsri from Pattaya, Vaughan Jackson & Dennis Jackson from Perth, Australia and Dave Corey from Queensland. It was time to say goodbye to another good friend, Marco Beer who will shortly be returning to Switzerland but will be back with us in a couple of months.
All were on time so our 2 mini vans departed the GS on schedule at 8.30 a.m. and after an excellent run north on Sukhumvit we arrived at the golf course just 41 minutes later. It was very quiet there so after check in we presented ourselves to the starter who informed us that we would be playing the C & A nines in that order. We were invited to tee off at our leisure and our first four ball got away fifteen minutes ahead of schedule at 9.45 am.
The weather was perfect and with not a soul in sight ahead we proceeded at a fairly good pace and finished the first nine in a little over 2 hours. The course was in fine shape although the greens were somewhat “multi grassed” and bumpy but it did not seem to trouble several of the field who posted some good scores. I personally feel that many of us over criticize some golf courses when we have not played very well, therefore I will report that the course on the day was very “entertaining”. Slowing down on the second nine as it got hotter we managed to complete a thoroughly enjoyable round of golf in four hours & ten minutes.
We had 3 divisions - Division A for handicaps 0 to 15, Division B for golfers on handicaps of 16 to 25 and Division C for handicaps of 26 and over with three places in each division. There were also rewards for nearest the pin on the par threes and longest first putts on the A9 & C9 greens.
“Buffalo” Bill Steinman finally found some form after a week off and was the winner of Division A with a fine 40 points, just 1 point ahead of your writer Peter “Blacky” Blackburn in second spot with John Davis in third place after carding 38 points.
The ladies did very well in B Division where Samorn Tamamsri scored a terrific 42 points to win and with 2 golfers on 38 points a count back was required to sort out second & third places. The result was that Thientong Charoenrung (21 point back nine) won that particular encounter with her boyfriend Dave Neal (17 point back nine) who finished in third place.
The Division C winner was Andrew “Turtle” Allen with a steady 36 points and in another count back with 2 golfers on 34 points it was Russell “Stud” Calcutt (19 point back nine and 44 putts for the day) who got third spot from Sandy “Cindy Lauper” Leiper (15 point back nine).
Division A - 0 to 15
1st - Bill Steinman (10) - 40 points
2nd - Peter Blackburn (12) - 39 points
3rd - John Davis (14) - 38 points
Division B - 16 to 25
1st - Samorn Tamamsri (24) - 42 points
2nd - Thientong Charoenrung (18) - 38 points
3rd - Dave Neal (25) - 38 points
Division C - 26 & over
1st - Andrew Allen (33) - 36 points
2nd - Russell Calcutt (33) - 34 points
3rd - Sandy Leiper (34) - 34 points
Near Pins: A5 - Dave Neal, A8 - Geri Crilly, C4 - Phil Taylor, C7 - Paul Moloney
Long Putts: A9 - Takeshi Hakozaki and C9 - John Davis.
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 visitor Dennis Jackson and he accepted the award like the good sport that he is. Andrew then kindly paraded Deefa the Dog and of course collected many donations for the needy in Pattaya from our generous Growling Swan Golfers. Back at The Growling Swan the beers were Aussie cold as usual and low priced so many of us relaxed and stayed for quite some time reminiscing over another very fine day out.
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 in Soi Chaiyapoon at 8.00 a.m. with transport departing at 8.30 a.m. For bookings or more information please contact Peter on 0806 351 386 or email to petermalcolmblackburn @gmail.com
We also play bowls out of the Growling Swan every Wednesday and Sunday. Sunday is Lawn Bowls and Wednesday is Indoor Bowls. All are welcome and for anyone that is interested the transport leaves The Growling Swan at 10.00 a.m. on each of those mornings. For more information please contact Paul Rennison on 0843 454 005.

Els to make Hong Kong Open debut

South African golfer Ernie Els.

Four-time Major champion Ernie Els has confirmed his participation at the prestigious Hong Kong Open for the first time. Taking place from October 16-19, 2014, the tournament will be the penultimate event on The European Tour International Schedule before the lucrative Final Series. It will again be tri-sanctioned with the Asian Tour and Hong Kong Golf Association.
The South African, who has 70 tour titles to his name, will play four tournaments in Asia starting with the Hong Kong Open as he makes his final preparations for the DP World Tour Championship. He is currently in 21st place in The Race to Dubai.
The Big Easy, as he is known on the tour, who will celebrate his 45th birthday on the Friday of the tournament, is excited to grace the fairways of the Hong Kong Golf Club.
He said: “I am very much looking forward to playing at the Hong Kong Open for the first time. I have been to Hong Kong before and have tried and enjoyed the course, so am excited to take part in the tournament. I have heard many great things about the event, its history and heritage, and I hope I am in a position to challenge for the title on the Sunday and join the list of great names who have held aloft this famous trophy.”

Eastern Star’s Acid Rain?

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the Elephant Bar

Masashi Iizumi with PGS gaffer Mr Len.

On Monday 1 September the Pattaya Golf Society made its second visit to Eastern Star in the space of two weeks - having been here on Monday 18 August. The difference in course presentation was marked. The report of our previous visit made reference to the many bare patches on fairways, particularly near the front of greens. This time it appeared these had increased in number and size. With little evidence of white GUR markings, the chance of having to cope with bad or difficult lies, from the fairway, is high. The PGS will now treat this course the same as it does Emerald, and invoke the preferred lie rule regardless of whether carts are permitted on fairways.
However, the biggest difference from our visit of two weeks ago was the state of many greens. Where prior the greens had been noted as slow but consistent, they at least had a full covering of grass. This time many were suffering from swathes of grassless areas, giving the appearance they had been subjected to some form of toxic spray. One of our golfers, who had the services of an experienced caddie, advised she had told him that the demise of the greens was a common event, and happened when certain wind conditions brought acid rain (her term) from a nearby factory. If true, it may explain Eastern Star’s continued difficulties with its putting surfaces.

Jack Robertson in typical post-golf pose.

Notwithstanding, there was still some good scoring with two players matching net-par - always a good test on this challenging layout - and four more coming home within two shots of net-par. There was one two; achieved by the returning Simon Kendall, whose tee-shot on the par-3 13th came very close to being an “ace”.
Back at the Elephant Bar, welcome backs were extended to expat Mikael Andersson, as well as Willie Barbour and Simon Kendall, both from the UK. Mr Len, a well-known Newcastle supporter, drew the lucky beer draw in favour of the only Geordie present; Brian Dunn. The Booby Bevy went to Takeshi Hakozaki for his generosity with green-fee discount vouchers.
Another day in paradise spent on the golf course. Let’s hope that acid rain story is just that - a story.
T1: Simon Kendall (13) 36 points
T1: Garry Bolger (17) 36 points
T3: Jon Batty (9) 34 points
T3: David Edwards (12) 34 points
T3: Alan Walker (20) 34 points
T3: Murray Edwards (22) 34 points
25,000 and Counting...
The Pattaya Golf Society fulfilled a fixture at Khao Kheow on Wednesday, 3rd September, when it held a Stableford tournament over the B and A nines which were in good condition considering the amount of rain they have endured recently. Unknown to the field the day would be a memorable one in the annals of the group as this would be the occasion which saw the 25,000th round of golf with the group since its “reinvention in” May 2005. The seventh golfer to tee off was the PGS’s old friend Masashi Iizumi and his searing low draw off B1 was the magic moment.
Back to the purpose of the day and a damp and soft Khao Kheow held all the aces as golfers struggled to gain control of their game. In third place with thirty solid points was the Aussie six handicapper, Tony Campbell, whilst Akifumi Tate went around in a better fettle recording thirty five points on the tough track. The winner was Jon Batty whose level par knock of thirty six points put a smile on the organiser’s face as one golfer at least had come to terms with the task. Dave Edwards recorded the only birdie two of the day, on the Island Hole, B8, whilst the return of the group’s sartorially challenged friend Ian Wilson brought colour to a grey day and a cool beer to his throat in the form of the Booby Bevy.
The after golf party back at the Elephant Bar ended with the presentation of a certificate to Masashi Iizumi after his historic round. 25,000...my word!... and no doubt more than a few of those present quietly mused that they would be there to celebrate the “fiftieth”. Maybe, indeed, it would be them?
A Tribute to Jack
On Friday 5 September the Pattaya Golf Society dedicated its Order-of-Merit Stableford round at Greenwood as a tribute to old friend and stalwart, Jack Robertson. Jack passed away last April, shortly after returning home from another lengthy stay in Pattaya. Fellow friend and countryman, Canadian Bob St Aubin, who only recently learnt of Jack’s passing, had offered to sponsor a range of technical prizes to mark the occasion.
As is usual when playing Greenwood, the day started with a trip up the 331. Today, however, it took us 15 minutes longer than usual to get through the Amata junctions; such was the concentration of traffic. Notwithstanding, after being allocated the C & B nines, the first of our five groups still managed to tee-off on time.
The course was well presented, as usual, but was playing long. The fairways offered excellent lies and the bunkers were in good shape. The greens on C nine were lightly sanded, thus played slower than those on B. At 1000B green-fee/caddie-fee, this course is excellent VFM.
Surprisingly, there were no twos. This left a healthy pot which enabled podium places to extend to five. One of today’s placegetters, Jesper Hansen, actually won the last time we were here. Today, playing well within himself, he scored one more Stableford than he did then, but only came 5th - TiT.
Solid rounds from both Masashi Iizumi and Wicahi Tananusorn saw them share third equal place, while Jon Batty’s level round 36 points confirms his consistently good golf of late.
Topping the field with the only sub-par round was the recently returned Ian Wilson, whose sartorial selections are always guaranteed to brighten up his playing partner’s day. He had one of those rounds “out of the box” as he put it. Well done, mate.
Back at the Elephant Bar we welcomed back Paul Whitnall from the UK. Bob St Aubin and his generosity were soon in evidence as results of the technical prizes were announced. Near-pin winners were Ian Wilson, Jon Batty and Bryan Brown. The longest winning putt was awarded to Gary Bolger, and the long-drive contest was shared jointly by Tony Campbell and David Thomas. Bob then arranged for a shot of whiskey for all golfers present before proposing a toast to dear departed friend Jack. Cheers, mate. You will be missed.
1st: Ian Wilson (23) 37 points.
2nd: Jon Batty (9) 36 points.
T3: Wichai Tananusorn (8) 34 points.
T3: Masashi Iizumi (20) 34 points.
5th: Jesper Hansen (16) 33 points.

Pattaya youth defeats world champion

Ice Thiputhai-McArdle (left) played pool against former World Champion snooker player Ken Doherty (right) in a fundraiser at the Pattaya Orphanage for the Father Ray Foundation and beat him one up.

Double Formula 3 victory again for Stuvik in Belgium

Phuket born Sandy Kraokaew Stuvik earns double Formula 3 victories in Belgium.

Thailand’s 19 year old racing ace showed again why he is one of the hottest young formula racing prospects on the European scene for the 6th round of the EuroFormula Open championship at Spa Francorchamps. Stuvik secured a dominant pole position for the first race at with a time of 2:15:001 which would be 0.749 faster that second placed driver Palou from Spain and over a second faster than Stern from Israel. Stuvik’s lap time was the fastest ever recorded at the Spa circuit with a EuroFormula Open specification Formula 3 car.
Although the Phuket born Sandy Kraokaew Stuvik felt confident before the race, the weather was unstable and a slight rain began falling just as the race started. Having had a poor start, Stuvik found himself chasing Palou up the famous Eau Rouge corner and retaking the lead along the long uphill Raidillon stretch. The two drivers would go on to create a thriller for a race, with numerous excellent and clean overtaking maneuvers, as they fought for the lead. Midway through the race the rain got heavier in the back part of the circuit and Stuvik managed to pull away from the chasing driver. In the end the Thai driver took the checkered flag with a lead of 12.6 seconds to extend his championship lead considerably. Spain’s Palou finished second and Russia’s John Simonyan third.
For Sunday morning’s qualification it was again Stuvik who would claim Pole position, this time in front of his teammate, Guatemalan Andres Saravia in second and Russia’s Konstantin Tereschenko in third. Stuvik’s pole position lap time was 2:15:032, almost as fast as his best time from the first qualification.
The race, which was broadcast live on TV in Europe and web streamed around the world, started at noon and although Stuvik’s car again bogged down on the start, he recaptured the lead by slipstreaming early leader Saravia up the Raidillon straight and streaked away from the pursuing Formula 3 cars. Such was the Thai driver’s pace, that by the checkered flag he had built up a 13.2 second lead to second placed teammate Arthur Janosz from Poland. Japan’s Yu Kanamaru would claim the third step on the Spa podium.
Stuvik now carries a commanding 241 points, towards Palou’s 196 and Janosz’ 179 points, as the championship moves to Italy and the Monza circuit for the penultimate round of the 2014 championship on 26-28 September.

Walter Panichi chips in for an eagle

Monday, September 1, Burapha - Stableford
An overcast day with a cool breeze greeted the five groups who played A and B; but due to the recent rain, buggies were restricted to the cart path, so lift clean and place came into action playing from the shorter white tees. However, the fairways were remarkably dry after a week of rain and there was still a surprising amount of run that showed in the scoring with three players all hitting 40pts in Div A. Geoff Stimpson celebrated his return to golf in Thailand with a win in Div A and his fantastic 25pts on the back nine easily saw off the other two, namely Jim Brackett and Martin Kingswood, although Martin was very happy about the way he played and was content with his third place.

Wally Panichi (left) with Kim Danboise, the day’s two runner-ups at Laem Chabang.

Pete Stonebridge bounced back from his poor form in Hua Hin to win Div B with 38pts from Tim Knight (36) and John O’Keefe third with 33 beating Bob Lindborg and Ivan Plunkett on c/b.
John O’Keefe had two ‘2s (A3 & B3), and Pete Stonebridge (B3), Geoff Stimpson (B8) and Rusty Hannah (A3) one each.
Div A (0 - 14)
1st Stimpson, Geoff 40 pts (09)
2nd Brackett, Jim 40 pts (07)
3rd Kingswood, Martin 40 pts (13)
Div B (15+)
1st Stonebridge, Pete 38 pts (16)
2nd Knight, Tim 36 pts (25)
3rd O’Keefe, John 33 pts (17)
Tuesday,
September 2, Khao Kheow - Stableford
We had a turn-out of 9 players today as we managed to drag the General out who has been busy trying to recover the website. This is my favourite course in Pattaya and I was really looking forward to playing the loops A & B; however, unfortunately A did not impress at all as the fairways were patchy and bald and although we had preferred lies this did not really help us as it was often difficult to find a piece of grass to prefer.
After we stopped at the half way house we were not looking forward to the back nine (B) but I am pleased to report that this nine was completely different. Chalk and Cheese as one would say. The fairways had grass on them and although they have had heavy rain over the last few days preferred lies didn’t seem necessary. The greens had recovered from July after what seemed a water disease and were a pleasure to putt on.
With a couple of other PSC bars playing right behind us making the most of the reduced rate green fee vouchers available from the PSC office, one has to wonder the wisdom of the management who are obviously quite happy to stick two 5 balls out just a couple of groups in front and unnecessarily slow up the entire field.
The winner for the day was Norm Cheetham with 37pts from Brad Jordison with 35. Norm had the only ‘2’ on a par 3 whereas Wally (Walter Panichi) chipped in his second on the opening hole for an eagle - Well done mate!
1st Cheetham, Norm 37 pts (14)
2nd Jordison, Brad 35 pts (06)
3rd Panichi, Walter 33 pts (02)
Wednesday,
September 3, Laem Chabang C&B - Stableford
Six groups played the tough C and B nines on a bright sunny day with all the ponds full and the creeks in full flow due to recent rain, but luckily the rain stayed away whilst we were playing. However, the fairways on C were wet.
Just a reminder to all that under PSC rules if the course is cart path only (obviously with the exception of the Siams) then lift, clean and place comes into play automatically, even if the organiser forgets to tell the field.
With three 14 handicappers, the two Divs split a little unevenly but that did not stop John O’Keefe from continuing to recover his old form, posting the day’s top score and winning the second division with 37pts from Kim Danboise (36) and Tim Knight third with 34. Martin Kingswood followed up his 40pts third place at Burapha on Monday with 34pts here to win the top division on c/b from 2 handicapper Walter Panichi, with Geoff Stimpson in third on 33.
Jim Brackett and John Fitzgerald got the ‘2’s, on C5 and C8 respectively.
Div A (0 - 13)
1st Kingswood, Martin 34 pts (13)
2nd Panichi, Walter 34 pts (02)
3rd Stimpson, Geoff 33 pts (09)
Div B (14+)
1st O’Keefe, John 37 pts (17)
2nd Danboise, Kim 34 pts (15)
3rd Knight, Tim 34 pts (25)
Friday, September 5, Silky Oak - Stableford
Without usual Friday course Green Valley unavailable due to a member’s tournament, the seven Outback groups played Silky Oak. The course was OK but the greens and bunkers are not up to the standard of Green Valley.
Norm Cheetham, playing his last competition round this trip as he heads home tomorrow, registered his second win of the week by winning the top division with the day’s best score of 38pts from Rod Crosswell who beat both Peter Nixon and Bob Finley on c/b after all three had 36pts.
Division two was won by the consistent Kim Danboise with 37pts from Hua Hin champion John Stafford (36), with Greg Hill (35) third and Bob Lindborg next with 34. Kim also had the only ‘2’ to complete a good week for him.
This Friday we are back at Green Valley for the DeVere Monthly Medal which will also count as the first day of the two day “7th anniversary of the Outback Golf Bar” tournament. The second round will be at Burapha on Mon 15th with food and live music from the “Band of Smiles” in the early evening.
Div A (0 - 14)
1st Cheetham, Norm 38 pts (14)
2nd Crosswell, Rod 36 pts (14)
3rd Nixon, Peter 36 pts (11)
Div B (15+)
1st Danboise, Kim 37 pts (15)
2nd Stafford, John 36 pts (16)
3rd Hill, Greg 35 pts (16)

Jim Brackett winning in the rain

PSC Golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Jim Bracket wins top spot at Green Valley in the rain.

Sunday 31ST August Green Valley
A Flight
1st Jim Brackett (7) 40 pts
2nd Simon Kendall (11) 37 pts
B Flight
1st Barry Tregurtha (18) 37 pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (17) 34 pts
Near Pins: No 5 Alistair Gall, No 8 Peter Henshaw, No 12 Ray Crosthwaite, No 16 Christian Boysen.
The storms of Friday and generally over the weekend could not dampen the hopes and ambitions of the lads and lassies that turned out for our regular Sunday bash at the Valley. In the rain that lasted most of the day that made no roll on the ball, it was a surprise to see some good scores top man in A Flight was Big Jim Brackett with a masterly 40 points. Jim was three clear of Simon Kendall.
B Flight was the province of Barry Tregurtha with a very creditable 37 points. Peter Henshaw, who has really benefited from his move to the silver tees, once again made the B Flight podium as he picked up the silver with 34 points. Peter made it a fine day as he also picked up a 2 and a near pin.
Walter Panichi, Bill Peach and Alistair Gall shared the 2’s pot with Peter.
Tuesday 2nd
September Plutaluang Navy
A Flight
1st Christian Boysen (18) 37pts
2nd John Feehan (16) 33 pts
A smaller field than expected probably due to the threat of more storms, but those that made the trip to the Plutaluang Navy course were rewarded with a very well prepared layout. Ok, the fairways were wet after all the heavy rains but the greens and bunkers were in fine condition.
Christian Boysen continuing his rich vein of form destroyed the field with a best on the day 37 points. Christian was also the only player to better his handicap. Leading the also ran’s was Ireland’s John Feehan four stroke in arrears.
No 2’s were recorded so it’s a rollover on Wednesday.
Wednesday 3rd September
Bangpra
A Flight
1st Adam Barton (14) 34 pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (17) 34 pts
3rd Asgar Levin (14) 30 pts
B Flight
1st Christian Boysen (18) 32 pts
2nd Barry Oats (20) 30 pts
3rd Jorn Finnerup (21) 29 pts
A good turnout for the low season saw the lads depart for the ever popular Bangpra, with its lightning greens, which once again ruined many a card! As the scores show as no player played to par or bettered his handicap.
In A Flight, Adam Barton and Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw were co-men-of-the-match with 34 points. Adam bettered Peter for the top spot in the resulting countback. Asgar Levin closed the Flight with 30 points.
The low scores continued in B Flight as the 32 points of the inform man Christian Boysen was good for the top spot on the podium. Christian was two clear of Barry Oats as Jorn Finnerup gratefully head bent accepted the Bronze with 29 points.
Freddy Starbeck and Jim Elphick split the 2’s pot.
Friday 5th September Crystal Bay B+C
A Flight
1st Thomas Nyborg (20) 46 pts
2nd Freddy Starbeck (13) 37 pts
3rd Aiden Murray (18) 37 pts
Thomas Nyborg was an ecstatic A Flight winner as he tallied an amazing 46 points to put a fair sized dent in his handicap. Freddy Starbeck and Aiden Murray’s 37 points, excellent any other day, seemed a bit common but it did provide them with second and third place on the podium and in that order. Aiden wasn’t too concerned with the count back verdict as he pocketed a half share of the 2’s pot with Rod Brown.
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; otherwise why not call Colin on 0898260764. Transport is provided.

Pattaya residents organize charity football match

Kind hearted citizens organized a charity football match for Phatchara Hreeluksawadee, a victim of ALS, raising for 40,000 baht.

Jetsada Homklin
A group of Pattaya villagers raised 40,000 baht with a charity football match for a 19-year-old boy stricken with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Going well beyond the “ice bucket challenge” that has become the trendy way to raise money for ALS, Soi Bonkai neighbors of Phatchara Hreeluksawadee organized an eight-man football match to pay for his ongoing treatment at Queen Sirikit Naval Medical Center.
The boy has been hospitalized for six months and can move only his neck and head, but cannot talk.
Besides the football, Thai boxer Sudsakhorn S. Klinmee and Pattaya Arena coach Prasert Innui donated their jerseys to be auctioned.
Those interested in helping can donate funds to Phatchara’s account at Kasikorn Bank, number 389-2-44886-2 or call 086-661-5000.

Thai fighter Sudsakhorn S. Klinmee attended the charity event, auctioning his boxing shorts.

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Franz, Heinz, Tue, David Nok & Tao.

Preecha bowled a 563 series with games of 192, 181 and 190 to lead first place Indiana to a three point win over VFW Post 9876. David Shaw was best for VFW with a 212 game and 547 series.
Second place Bavaria gained on Indiana after winning all four points from Brother D. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 525 series and Leo Kretscher had a 518 for Bavaria. Heinz bowling as a Pacer had a 211 game and 522 series. Franz Stigler also bowling as a Pacer rolled a 205 game.
Tue Pettae bowled a 580 series with games of 207, 189 and 184 and Lek Reaper bowled a 518 series to lead third place Canada to a three point win over Balloon. Nok Ostbo bowled a 200 game, 520 series and Aht Johansson had a 518 series for Balloon.
Green Tree won three points from Cafe Kronborg with Tao knocking over the pins for Green Tree with a 582 series and games of 202, 201 and 179. Noodle Russell had a 500 series for Green Tree and Roy bowling as a Pacer bowled a 513 series.

Results & Standings September 5 (week 22)
Pos.	Team	Score	Standings
1	Indiana	3-1	56.0 - 32.0
2	Bavaria	4 - 0	52.5 - 35.5
3	Canada	3-1	51.0 - 37.0
4	Balloon	1-3	44.5 - 43.5
5	VFW Post 9876	1-3	43.0 - 45.0
6	Green Tree	3-1	41.5 - 46.5
7	Brother D	0 - 4	32.0 - 56.0
8	Cafe Kronborg	1-3	31.5 - 56.5

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Standings Sept. 1 (week 4)

Team	P	W	L	+/-	BP	Pts.
Legends	4	4	0	22	0	12
Nicky’s Bar	4	4	0	11	0	12
Links Bar	3	2	1	9	0	6
Dean’s Bar	4	2	2	6	0	6
Shoot Pool	4	2	2	2	0	6
Wok’n’Rok	3	2	1	1	0	6
Cheers Bar	1	1	0	3	0	3
Rest Stop	3	1	2	2	0	3
Classroom	2	1	1	-2	0	3
Sweethearts Bar	3	1	2	-6	0	3
Asia backpackers	3	0	3	-14	1	1
Offshore Bar	2	0	2	-12	0	0
Two Dogs	4	0	4	-22	0	0
Results:  Asia Backpackers 5-10 Legends, Cheers Bar 10-7 Dean’s Bar, Shoot Pool 10-6 Rest Stop, Two Dogs 7-10 Nicky’s Bar

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Results & Standings Sept. 1 (week 3)

Team	Played	Won	Lost	For	Agst	Diff.	Pts.
Phimai Geordie	3	3	0	35	10	25	9
Smile Bar	3	3	0	31	14	17	9
Funny Girl	3	2	1	25	20	5	7
Parrot Inn	3	2	1	25	20	5	7
Asian Nomads	3	2	1	20	25	-5	7
Crazy Eddie’s	3	2	1	19	26	-7	7
Connections	3	1	2	19	26	-7	5
San Snack Bar	2	1	1	16	14	2	4
Doggy Style	3	0	3	17	28	-11	3
Ta Bar	3	0	3	16	29	-13	3
Pom Bar	2	0	2	11	19	-8	2
Buffalo Jack’s	1	0	1	6	9	-3	1
Results:  Smile Bar 12 v 3 Crazy Eddie’s, San Snack Bar 9 v 6 Doggy Style, Pom Bar 5 v 10 Funny Girl, Connections 9 v 6 Buffalo Jack’s, Asian Nomads 9 v 6 Parrot Inn, Ta Bar 4 v 11 Phimai Geordie

Links Bar Wednesday 9-Ball Pool League

Results & Standings Sept.3 (week 13)

Team	P	W	D	L	+/-	Pts.
Legends Pool	10	9	1	0	62	28
Pook’s Bar	12	7	1	4	16	22
Links Bar	10	7	0	3	40	21
George & Dragon	11	6	2	3	20	20
Mates Bar	12	6	2	4	-12	20
FCUK Inn	10	3	4	3	-4	13
Crazy Eddie’s	11	3	2	6	-6	11
The Ranch	12	3	2	7	-18	11
Classroom	12	3	1	8	-38	10
Connections	10	3	0	7	-18	9
Queen Vic	10	2	1	7	-42	7
Results:  Classroom 12-8 Crazy Eddie’s, FCUK inn 12-8 Connections, George & Dragon 10-10 Mates Bar, Links Bar 8-12 Legends Pool, Pook’s Bar 13-7 The Ranch

Dolly Dalton Jomtien Pool League

Team	Match	Won	Lost	Bonus	Points
Sans Snack	8	7	1	1	22
Winners	8	7	1	1	22
Shenanigans	8	6	2	2	20
Rack Um Up	8	4	4	4	16
Country Road	8	5	3	1	16
Take Care	8	4	4	3	15
Joys Paradise	7	4	3	2	14
Simple Simon	8	3	5	4	13
Windmill	8	3	5	3	12
Rioja	8	2	5	5	11
Woaw’s	8	1	7	6	9
Lion Pub	7	1	6	4	7
Week 08 Matches - Results for Thu 04-09-2014: Take Care Vs Country Road 5-10, Windmill Vs Simple Simon 8-7, Winners Vs Shenanigans 10-5, Joys Paradise Vs Rioja 8-7, Lion Vs Rack Um Up 9-6, Woaws Vs San Snack Bar 5-10.

K-1 World MAX 2014 kicks off in Pattaya Oct. 11

Motocross racers kick up dirt at Mabprachan

Pattaya confirmed as host for FIVB Beach Volleyball tourney

Teens compete in Pattaya Youth Sepak Takraw Tournament

24th Eastern hotelier sports day kicks off

Marriott employee wins 2nd Hoteliers Pool Tournament

Bob Watson announces his return - again

Trevor Schirmer does the double

Count-backs galore at the Valley

Jariya Jareaunsuk wins Jaa Memorial Trophy

Paul Smith collects two wins and a second place

Sports Bag: 3 holes in one

Mike & Marco too good at Bangpra

Els to make Hong Kong Open debut

Eastern Star’s Acid Rain?

Pattaya youth defeats world champion

Double Formula 3 victory again for Stuvik in Belgium

Walter Panichi chips in for an eagle

Jim Brackett winning in the rain

Pattaya residents organize charity football match

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Crumpton Oaks Cider Monday Pool League

Pattaya 8-Ball Monday Pool League

Links Bar Wednesday 9-Ball Pool League

Dolly Dalton Jomtien Pool League