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Top scoring Aree Arp and Cecil Williams drawn together in ‘Mystery Pairs’ competition
by Mike Franklin
Mystery Pairs competitions usually produce unexpected
results in the draw, and Shenanigans Very Friendly Golf Society outing on
Tuesday 19th February was no exception. Top scores of the day came from
Aree Arp with 45 Stableford points and Cecil Williams with 44 points.
Four-year-old Samantha Franklin, supervised by Banjob,
who did not play on this occasion, carried out the draw. The frequently
shuffled scorecards were drawn at random, with the result that the
Woodruffes, Ray and Im, were drawn together and took third place with a
combined 73 points. Usa Chaiyusit and Toy Ryser claimed second place with
74 points, but fifteen points clear with 89 points was the ‘Mystery
Pair’ of Aree Arp and Cecil Williams.
 Mike
Franklin presents the awards to runners-up Toy Ryser and Usa Chaiyusit.
Im Woodruffe was nearest the pin on four and twelve,
Lamun Hanley on eight and Mam Trayling on the fifteenth. Toy Theobald
holed the longest putt on the eighteenth and, to ensure that the men had
some representation on the technical holes, Tom Breslin sank the long putt
on the ninth.
Eastern Star was green and fresh from overnight rain
and really in good shape. The tees were clear, and there were no delays
due to traffic on the course.
Later, it was back to Shenanigans for the prize giving
and a special welcome to new members Dave Haworth and Nick Kiely; two
ladies from Switzerland, Males Bealmann and Erina Harry (suitably
partnered on the course with countryman Steve Ryser); John Biangazzo and
Alan Carson who also claims to be a friend of Ed Trayling.
Rick Bryant, from Shenanigans’ well-known ‘Rick
& Harpic’ duo, also played with us for the first time and not having
played golf, apparently, for many years. Clearly short on equipment, he
played in Kim Fletcher’s group with just an 8 iron and a putter and
managed to score, much to his credit, 23 Stableford points off a 36
handicap. There was some silly bet involved between Rick and Kim, the
result of which is not known and probably far too complicated and friendly
to report anyway!
As if that was not enough, the ever-present Asian
Ladies Captain, Usa Chaiyusit (Noi) set up a surprise feature to this
routine fortnightly competition. Unbeknown to the organizer, Mike
Franklin, Noi had arranged for a group of her playing friends to wear
unusual clothes on the day and just turn up at Eastern Star on the
morning.
This meant a last minute re-organization of the start
sheet with a field of 38 players, and no less than 17 ladies, some barely
recognizable!
It was all good fun and deserved recognition, so a
bottle of champagne came out of Kim’s cellar and was awarded to the lady
wearing the most popular unusual dress on the course.
A short list of three was drawn up comprising: Aree Arp,
wearing a stunning red and white ‘Baby’ outfit; Sangad Coles,
resplendent in a traditional Thai outfit with lace top and bright blue
‘balloon’ knee length trousers; and Wanida Reed in a ‘St. Trinians’
schoolgirl blue and white outfit.
The applause meter established Wanida as the winner,
and Mike happily presented her with the champagne suitably chilled on ice
and ready for immediate consumption. Nice one Noi!
A fitting end to another very friendly Shenanigans golf
day.
Tuesday, March 5th is the next outing to Eastern Star
for a Pairs Scramble.
Sign-up early, in pairs please, at Shenanigans.
Brackett Bags Classroom Classic
120,000 baht raised for charity
On a bright and breezy day at Green Valley C.C., on
Friday the 15th Feb., 160 golfers set out on this popular annual event.
Occupying two tees the golfers’ first treat was a fabulous buffet at the
5th drinks stop supplied by Simple Simons from Jomtien.
There were many trophies up for grabs but the main one
was the overall champion, which would be won by the best Stableford score
on the day. This duly went to a golfer in form, Jim Brackett, who shot a
fabulous 43 points off a 7 handicap.
The day went very smoothly despite the huge field, and
the presentation at the Classroom was the icing on the cake, with a
fabulous buffet, lucky draw, free draw and of course the presentation.
There were also items for auction including the flag
from the 18th hole at the Augusta Masters 2001 signed by Tiger Woods,
which was sold for 50,000 baht. The day raised 120,000 baht for Banglamung
Orphanage.
 Jim
Brackett (right) receives his trophy and prize from Pete Stonebridge, Stan
Fry and Steve Ross.
Full Results:
Champion
Jim Brackett, 43 pts.
A Flight
Winner: Bob Patterson, 38 pts.
Second: Stephan Andersson, 38 pts.
Third: Tom Breslin, 37 pts.
B Flight
Winner: Mike Seely, 39 pts.
Second: Paul Phillips, 38 pts.
Third: Eddy Beilby, 38 pts.
Rabbits Winner (over 28 hcp.)
Andy Spence, 42 pts.
Ladies Champion
Somsri Dkphikun (Bee) 40 pts.
Team Champions
Mike Phillips, Paul Phillips, Eddie Blackwell, Uria, 112 pts best three
scores.
Exotic Thailand Temple Marathon and Half Marathon
Thailand’s inaugural Temple Marathon and Half
Marathon will be held on Sunday March 24 in an area outside of Bangkok
known for its many fabulous temples.
Open for local and international entrants, competitors
will have the opportunity to run either the full 42-K marathon, the 21-K
half-marathon, or a 10k run, through this amazing countryside - a unique
way to experience Thailand’s exotic culture, and meet runners from all
over the world.
The starting point and official opening ceremony will
take place in the grounds of Phumrinkudeethong Temple, Samut Songkram, and
many cultural experiences will greet competitors along the route. This is
more than a race, it is a cultural extravaganza!
Tour packages are offered to international competitors
via the web site www.thailand-temple-run.com or through an experienced
local tour operator, combining both the race and a Thailand holiday.
Exiting features offered to both local and
international competitors include the opportunity to join a pre-race
inspection and visit to the Floating Market at Damnoen Saduak; a pre-race
carbohydrate dinner at the Amari Watergate Hotel, allowing runners to
mingle and ‘fuel up’ before the big race; and a post race awards
ceremony and dinner to present trophies to the winners, and celebrate
everyone’s personal achievements. Transfers are also being offered from
the Amari Watergate Hotel to the starting line (over an hour) and return.
Everyone crossing the Finish Line will receive a
specially designed commemorative medal, and category winners will be
presented with unique trophies. Many lucky draw prizes are also to be won.
The Thailand Temple Run is celebrating a Day of Running
Around The World, and has joined with marathons in Rome, Italy, and
Washington DC, USA, who are also running on March 24.
Famous Japanese Ecomarathoner, Hajimi Nishi, holder of
the Guinness Book of Records for running 7 marathons on 7 continents in
168 days, “The fastest time to run a marathon on each of the 7
continents” world record, will be the honored guest celebrity.
This is also the first marathon in Asia to offer
instant on-line registration confirmations using real-time reservations
software provided by www.agent-key.com
Professional race organizer, SportVision, is
responsible for the course, and for local registrations. Thai runners may
contact SportVision at tel. 0 2570 9599 before March 24 for information
and registration. Non-Thai speakers should contact 0 2653 9191 or email
[email protected] for further information on local
registration fees.
Sultans of Swing move into third place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Last Friday in the Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling
League, Dang rolled a 535 series and guided her Sultans of Swing team into
third place with a 3.5-point victory over the Winchester Club. Winchester
has some good bowlers but they seem to be having a bit of difficulty
finding the strike zone as of late.
 PSC
bowlers who rolled 200 or better on the day: Jeed, Pin, Ta and Ooy.
House of the Golden Coin took all four points from
Shakey Pete’s and dropped them down to fourth place. Mio led the Golden
Coin bowlers with a 517-pin count, which is below her normal form but all
of her team bowled very consistently to give them the win. Shakey Pete’s
just had another bad day, and with their Captain La not feeling well they
couldn’t even get one point out of this match.
VFW Post 9876 took three points from the Three Sisters
team. Great bowling by Lek with a 529 pin count (640 with handicap) and
with Oy’s 210 game, 500 series it was enough to overcome Three Sisters
bowler, Pin, who had games of 199, 173, and 201, for a great 573 series.
Cafe Kronborg fell deeper into the cellar after losing
four points to Cafe Ole. Jeed led Cafe Ole with a 226 game and 539 series
and Ta was best for Cafe Kronborg with a 223 game and 531 series.
League Standings
| Team |
Points |
Points - 22 Feb |
|
House of the Golden Coin
VFW Post 9876
Sultans of Swing
Shakey Pete’s
Cafe Ole
Winchester Club
Three Sisters
Cafe Kronborg |
52 - 36
50 - 38
45 - 43
44 - 44
43.5 - 44.5
42 - 46
38.5 - 49.5
37 - 51 |
4 - 0
3 - 1
3.5 - .5
0 - 4
4 - 0
.5 - 3.5
1 - 3
0 - 4 |
PCC “Specialist” Granville Swanton wins two from Rising Sun
Granville Swanton won two straight golf competitions
out of the Rising Sun last week. In the first, the Rising Sun’s weekly
Stableford competition at Phoenix Country Club, Swanton scored a front
nine 17 and back nine 23 to card a blistering 40 points.
Near pins went to Roger Pring (x2) and Granville
Swanton.
Pattaya Country Club was the venue for the Rising Sun
on Thursday. A well presented course with little wind meant good scoring,
and runner-up with 36 points was Kevin Fortt.
But the winner with 38 points was again Granville
Swanton, who actually learned to play golf and did his apprenticeship at
Pattaya Country Club, making him a “Pattaya Country Club Specialist”.
Near pins went to Kevin Fortt (x2) and Granville
Swanton.
Don Richardson aces #8 at Siam
PSC Golf From Cafe Kronborg
Thursday 21 Feb - Siam Country Club
With a large group it is nice to go to a golf course,
have a two tee start & for everything to go smoothly. Many thanks to
Siam C.C. for arranging the extra times and for feeding those who started
on the back nine onto the front nine so efficiently.
 Don
Richardson (left) & Fred Theobald achieved holes in one on consecutive
days.
There was little doubt that the event of the day was
the hole in one by Don Richardson on the 8th and the free round of drinks
he bought for all who returned to the Kronborg. A fine net 65 by John
Swanson was overshadowed. Interesting to note another of the regulars Fred
Theobald had a hole in one the previous day.
One sad aspect of the day was that the actual winner of
A flight had to be disqualified as he put down wrongly a three when he had
in fact scored a four. This once more brings into focus the fact you
should control your own card, by exchanging cards with your marker, check
your scores are correct and ensure both you and your marker sign.
Winner of A flight (0-16) was Chris Davisson with a net
72. Second was Jack Cunningham net 73, and a three way count back on net
75 saw Bob Davis in third place, Andy Winch fourth and losing out Derek
Brook.
Winner of B flight (17 up) was John Swanson with net 65
(and by 7 shots the best round of the day). Second was Jim Boyd with net
72, third Andy Bettany net 73 and fourth Harold Grouber net 74.
Near pins: No 4 Cees Bosman, No 8 Don Richardson (hole
in one), No 12 Brendan Kelly, and No 16 Howie Forrest.
Long putts: No 9 John Knight and No 18 Jack Cunningham.
Monday 18 Feb - Pattaya Country Club
The ever improving Pattaya Country Club played host to
41 golfers for a stroke play competition in two flights A 0-19, B 20 &
above.
Heavy hitting Mike Dige took the A flight with an
excellent gross 71, net 65. Second was Chris Davisson with net 66, Ebrahim
and Maurice Herberge finished third & fourth with net 67’s.
Steady Arthur Bailey took the B flight with a net 67.
Marcel Wittwer came second with net 70, Matti Siponmaa was third with net
71 and Werner Strub fourth with net 74 on count back from Rickey Furgerson
& Dave Richardson.
Near pins: No 5 Mike Dige, No 7 Alpo Sipola, No 12 Art
Bailey, and No 16 was a tie between Mike Dige & Trevor Ellison.
Long putts: No 9 Juhani Miettene and No18 Wayne Koch.
Fred Theobald holes in one
IPGC Golf from The Haven
Monday February 18th - Century Ban Chan (Bogey)
2nd Division
1st: Lamud Lindborg, all square
2nd: Mo Bertrand, 1 down cb9 A/S
3rd: Ken Leadstone, 1 down cb9 1 down
1st Division
1st: Jay Nakagawa, 4 up
2nd: Jeff McLaury, 2 up cb9 2 up
3rd: Yazuo Suzuki, 2 up cb9 2 down
In the second division, Lamud Lindborg continued her
fine run of form to hold off Mo Bertrand and newcomer Ken Leadstone and
record another win at The Haven. By the end of the week she was to see her
handicap reduced by another two strokes, much to the delight of husband
Bob.
The top flight was dominated by the Japanese connection
Jay Nakagawa and Yazuo Suzuki only separated by the old war hero Jeff
McLaury, who consolidated a steady opening nine with a homeward 2 up
against Yazuo giving away two after heading the field at four up on the
front.
Ken Leadstone, Bob Lindborg, Mark Gorda and Stephen
Beard shared the twos.
Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston the
resident PGA professional welcomed new members Ken Leadstone, Joe McArdle,
Peter Emslie, Glenn Meadows and Richard Kinneman. He also welcomed back
Cliff Hornsby, Jay, Bill Kirkpatrick and Mike Dabanovich.
Wednesday February 20th - Burapha East Course (stroke play)
Ladies
1st: Saranya Chaiyanont, 73
2nd: Lamud Lindborg, 74
2nd Division
1st: Gary Welch, 71
2nd: Bob Lindborg, 72 cb9 37
3rd: Rick Bevington, 72 cb9 38
4th: Rob Bennett, 73
1st Division
1st: Joe McArdle, 67
2nd: Bob Morrison, 69 cb9 30
3rd: Phil Groves, 69 cb9 32
4th: Tom Breslin, 70
A very large contingent of golfers necessitated the
formation of three divisions at the very popular and well-prepared East
Course at Burapha.
The ladies went to Saranya Chaiyanont taking her first
trophy at The Haven, closely followed by the ever-present Lamud Lindborg.
First time winner Gary Welch, who kept the chasing pack
at bay over the back nine with a very solid performance, headed the second
division, while Joe McArdle rounded out a trio of first time winners to
record his best round in Thailand. Going into a count back with a gross 36
off an eight handicap would normally ensure the nod, but on this occasion
Phil Groves was bested by an even better back nine by Bob Morrison, who
shot a gross 37 off his 14 handicap and thereby snatched second place.
The twos would have been shared between Trevor Edge
(2), Joe McArdle, Al Rolnik, Brent Philp, Terry Minnighen, Eric Kirby and
Toy Theobald, but Fred Theobald, playing his last game before returning to
the UK for a well earned rest, managed to top the lot with a hole in one
on the third hole, and was awarded the whole pot to help pay for the round
of drinks he provided for the extremely large field on the day.
In advance of the prize giving, Richard welcomed new
members Eric Kirby and Michael Wray to the proceedings.
Friday 22nd February - Century Chonburi (Stableford)
1st: B.J. Smith, 44 pts.
2nd: Ning Morris, 43 pts.
3rd: Mike Morris, 34 pts
4th: Stephen Beard, 33 pts.
At last the “Doc” got at least a toe back on the
winners podium just behind big hitting Mike Morris, both of whom were a
very long way short of troubling the leaders. It is not often that one
scores 43 points and loses, but this was the fate of Ning Morris, who
having played the best round of her life found that B.J. Smith was also
achieving a landmark round firing in the eighties for the first time ever
and just edging her out over the last two holes, scoring six points to
Ning’s five.
Big Al Rolnik shot the only two of the day, not
surprisingly as there were two par threes of over two hundred yards, to
clean up the pool. Back at The Haven, Richard welcomed new members Nick
Keily from Ireland and Ron Dalen from Vancouver, whilst welcoming back
Tony Barritt, together with Mike and Ning Morris.
All in all a memorable week that saw over one hundred
golfers enjoying their golf and social activities with TAGGS.
Bob Davis leads home the field
PSC Three Sisters Golf
On Monday February 18th, the Three Sisters Group
gathered at Siam to determine who the braggart for the week would be. We
had old timers, first timers and others who vied for the bragging rights,
making it the largest group so far that made our Monday morning golf
session.
 Bob
Davis won the bragging rites at SCC 18 February with 38 points while
Charlie Creed was left holding the bag with 17.
With more than thirty golfers joining our fun golf
session you would think that the winning score would be in the 40’s. As
it was, long tall Bob Davis came in with a respectable 38 points to win
the bragging rights outright.
Close on his heels were Jim Boyd, Doug Powell, and Mike
McKay - any of these three golfers could have had the bragging rights if
they didn’t get tripped up on one hole or another. Bob Davis hung in
there tough to sneak by with the win and the bragging rights for the week.
Holding the bag for the week was good ole Charlie
Creed. I don’t know what course Charlie played on but it doesn’t seem
like it was Siam. No one even challenged Charlie for the bottom spot. Good
work Charlie - it was always said if you’re going to do it, do it right.
I believe that Charlie will be angry enough to dig himself out of the
cellar next week.
As usual the group snacked on ham sandwiches supplied
this week by Gerry Carpenter. The sandwiches were nice and moist as they
were chased down with a few beers. The bragging and bull went on for a
while as golfers slowly drifted out to their different destinations.
The likely lads win at Pattaya
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the Bunker
On Tuesday, 19th February, thirty Bunker Boys made
their way to local Pattaya Country Club to play their weekly medal
tournament. The course was in good condition and the greens were faster
than anyone could remember at this course.
Older English readers will remember the antics of the
“Likely Lads”, Bob and Terry and it was their namesakes who carried
the day. In division one Terry Gill shot a fine net 69 to head off the
challenge of Per Aschan, on 70 and Michael Dige who shot a net 72, gross
77.
In division two Bob Ben nett played the round of his
life to register a net 65, a long way ahead of Chris John and David
Johnson, both on 74.
The Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Bill Hewitt
and Remy Guy who scored a two on the sixteenth and seventh holes
respectively.
The Bunker Banana Booby went to John Hughes, playing
off twelve, who thought the course was a walk in the park, and he claimed
he putted and chipped brilliantly all day. His score? Gross 91!
Michael Dige does it again
Eastern Star’s beauty was more than matched by its
difficulty when the Bunker Boys played their weekly Stableford competition
there on Friday, 22nd February.
The smaller than usual field played in the one division
and it was the incredibly consistent Michael Dige who took the honours
with a gross 76, netting him 37 points. In joint second place, with 35
points were Roy Mitchell and Bill Jones. Both are playing well at the
moment and were not as affected by the strong breeze as the majority of
the field.
The Bunker Super Sawng award was held back as no one
registered a two on their card and at the end of the day the Bunker Banana
Booby was awarded to newcomer Peter Neville for his meagre tally of seven
points. Welcome to the Bunker, Peter!
Pattaya - last hurrah for Thai boxers
Chakrapong Akkaranant
Boxing, or “Muai Thai”, is a favorite sport in
Thailand, and the boxing shows are a great favorite with tourists in
Pattaya. It pays good money and even at the end of a professional’s
career, a dedicated boxer craves the limelight.
 The
fighters say these Muai Thai matches are real and show off the various
moves used in this unique style of combat.
“Yodkhao T. Khochsarn” is the nickname taken by
Somsamai Chantsri, a 38-year old Thai boxer formerly from Khon Kaen who
tells us that he’s been boxing in shows at different places in Pattaya
for the past 10-years.
A reminiscent Yodkhao listed the boxing arenas where he
entered the ring in provinces all around Thailand, including the
prestigious Lumpini Park Boxing Arena and Rajadamnern Boxing Arena.
In his prime he said he faced the best boxers, with
reputations lasting to this day, and boxed in major bouts with big names
like “Dedduang P. Pongswang” and “Pa Kheaw Luk Chao Pho Mahesak”.
He even beat “Somsrilek Sid Pho Phromek” and had a bout with the
Filipino slugger Ramon Decker.
 Even
though born with short bodies, both Prachak Naewphila, 19, (right) and
Adul Thornchak, 38, were unable to pursue a career in professional Thai
boxing, but are able to realize some of their dreams through participating
in boxing shows in Pattaya, and provide a lot of good fun in the process.
After giving up his professional career in the boxing
ring Yodkhao took up boxing in Pattaya’s entertainment areas. He is
currently boxing at the Siren Bar and the Marine Plaza Bar.
Following the fight the boxers step out of the ring to
accept tips given voluntarily from spectators. Yodkhao stressed that
boxers do no beg or gesture for tips. These gratuities are voluntary
rewards given from spectators who genuinely enjoyed the battle in the
ring.
After a good fight, he said the tips from tourists are
divided up providing each boxer anywhere from 700 to 1,000 baht and since
this is on top of wages from the manager, the pay is good enough to make a
living.
 ”Yodkhao
T. Khochsarn” (left) and “Chai Noi Luk Hang Dong” displaying
incentives earned on the night.
He explained that the rules of engagement and equipment
in Pattaya bars are exactly the same as for a professional Thai boxing
match. The whole point is to give spectators all the rituals and moves,
ending with an impressive fight. Nothing about the fights is staged or
phony, he said. The boxers realize that it is not a professionally
sanctioned fight, but they put their hearts and skills into each bout all
the same.
The money Yodkhao earns fighting in Pattaya bar rings
is enough for him to be able to support his family and make payments on a
car and house. Some days a show is put on at both bars and that makes for
a grueling night. When not boxing he’s usually at home resting or
helping look after the children and in the evenings he often runs to stay
in shape.
 Tourists
happily give tips at the end of each bout.
Yodkhao has had the opportunity to demonstrate his
skills and the art of Thai boxing in far-away places such as the
Netherlands, Finland, Hong Kong and Japan. Each time he said that he was
able to return home after earning between B30,000 and B40,000. On the 25th
of this month he’s scheduled to travel to Dubai with six other boxers,
organized by an agent from Great Britain.
Another Thai boxing professional, Somchai Sihanam,
going by the name of “Chai Noi Luk Hang Dong”, age 32 from Chaiyaphum,
who is also a veteran from the Lumpini Park and Rajadamnern Boxing Arenas,
described his career leading up to working in Pattaya.
Somchai said his early boxing career was similar to
Somsamai and he also was on boxing tickets at arenas all around the
country. Following his heyday he ended up as a Thai boxing instructor
teaching foreigners at the Thepprasit Boxing arena in Pattaya.
Professional boxing was a high-point in his life and he said he loves the
sport, describing it as the ultimate challenge for men.
For the past two years Somchai said he has been
employed with boxing shows and enjoys the opportunity to stay connected
with boxing. He makes between B30,000 - B40,000 a month, and says the pay
is better than what boxing instructors receive. During the day he rests up
and in the evening he teaches Thai boxing to foreigners, which also helps
him stay in good physical condition and prepares him for boxing shows.
Somchai insists the boxing shows are authentic and
nothing is held back, so spectators can enjoy the show and walk away
impressed with the fight. Routinely paired off against Somsamai, he said
the two of them are familiar with each other’s moves after boxing
together for so long. But in no way are the fights staged or faked. Those
are real punches and kicks the fans are seeing.
Another boxer working in Pattaya and still active in
the professional boxing arenas is Sangwian Roamchant, known as Denrong C.
Chutirat, a 24-year-old former champion in the eastern region at Bang
Prakong Boxing Arena in the 100 lb. weight class. He confirms other
boxers’ reports that decent pay is available in the boxing show circuit,
and he says it provides a good source of income between professional bouts
scheduled at Rajadamnern Arena.
The boxing manager at the Siren Bar in South Pattaya,
“Coach Den” says that many tourists coming to Pattaya become
interested in Thai boxing. At the end of a fight the spectators are
genuinely impressed with the fight, and he said they willingly give out
tips to the boxers, grateful for the fine entertainment.
Coach Den manages more than 30 boxers in boxing matches
set up at the Siren Bar and the Marine Plaza Bar. The boxing shows provide
the opportunity for former boxing champions and current professional
boxers to earn a living doing what they like best. Each day 12 matches are
organized at the two places starting at 9 p.m. until midnight.
Eastern Seaboard sailor Baguley wins the 2002 Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa Koh Larn Classic
by Peter Cummins, Pattaya
Climbing aboard his powerful Nacra 5.8 Catamaran and
taking runner Tom Ellefsen on board as crew, Gary Baguley, one of the
Eastern Seaboard’s finest sailors, easily won the Twelfth Pattaya
Marriott Resort and Spa (formerly the Royal Garden Resort) Koh Larn
Classic, raced off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club to Koh Larn and back.
Second, with runner Chris Schulz was David Race,
sailing a Hobie Cat 16. Third was Alberto Cassio and runner Les Nyerges
also racing a Nacra 5.8. and fourth was Olaf Reese with runner John
Quarmby, also an Eastern Seaboarder and managing director of the Laem
Chabang-based Schenker Company, one of the Classic’s co-sponsors.
 Marriott’s
GM Somsak (L) poses with the winners: sailor Gary and runner Tom Ellefsen
John also won the won the Karl Schmid Memorial Trophy
for the fastest runner, finishing that sector - some nine km across the
spine of Koh Larn - in 38 minutes, 49 seconds. He also won a magnum of
Chinese ‘bubbly’, donated by Trevor Riddy. Trevor was amazed to see
John and his team drink it. “It was meant to be shaken up and sprayed
around, Schumacher Formula One style; not actually consumed,” mused
Trevor!
Although John’s run-time was some six minutes outside
Jay Cooley’s 1995 record-breaking run of 33 minutes, nevertheless, in
the extreme heat, it was a great effort. Furthermore, it is also somewhat
difficult to keep exact records of this race, for the distance may not
always be exactly the same and weather conditions are also inclined to
skew the runners’ times.
 Fleet-footed
John Quarmby nurses his hard-won runner’s trophy
It always guarantees a great event and a lot of fun
when the Royal Varuna Yacht Club sailors and the Bangkok Hashers combine
their sailing and running skills for the racing, enjoy a great buffet
courtesy of the Pattaya Marriott Resort and air their somewhat dubious
vaudeville talents for the show on the Varuna balcony afterwards. The
Royal Thai Navy Band ‘Rockers’ and, of course, HHH ‘Supremo’
Francesco Felipo Noriega, added their usual entertaining touch.
Joining principal sponsor, the Pattaya Marriott Resort
and Spa again this year, were Schenker International, Technilink, and
Alberto Cassio’s Photo Bank Company. The Bangkok Hash House Harriers -
and, of course Hariets - who come to Pattaya to join the Classic and the
fun and hold an out-station run, are always welcomed at Royal Varuna and
can rely on the consistent support of the sponsors.
 Race
managers Gilbert (L) and David present a souvenir of appreciation to
Marriott’s GM, Somsak
Pattayan David Wales, Swiss Gilbert Leemann and their
team of marshals, including stalwarts Arthur and Chris, again organized a
great event which consists of “three legs” (like, the Varunians
provide the sails and the Hashers provide the legs). The first is a race
starting off the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, sailing north to round Koh Chun
(Lighthouse Island) in the middle of Pattaya Bay, thence north-west across
to the northern tip of Koh Larn where the yachts ‘disgorge’ their
runners. The finishing time of this leg is the start time for the runner.
This is the REALLLY tough part. The hash race starts
right there at North Beach, over the spine of the island to Koh Larn Vac
on the southern tip, then returning via the generating station over the
hill and down to a rendezvous with the runner’s boat which may or may
not have arrived. The skipper usually sails single-handedly, to keep crew
weight down for the overall performance and this sail along the western
shore of Koh Larn was not counted in the overall tally.
Then they sail back east to the Royal Varuna finishing
line. The race is scored by adding the time of the two sailing legs,
adjusted to the particular craft’s international handicap, and the
runner’s time.
 Fastest
lady, Suiyin, receives her reward from Somsak
The Pattaya City fathers are determined to clean up the
“waste-plagued islands of Koh Sichang and Koh Larn”. In fact,
Mingkhwan Witcharanangsarit, director of the Pollution Control
Department’s Toxic Hazardous and Waste Management Division, vowed that
the “garbage-strewn islands off Pattaya - Koh Larn and Koh Sichang
specifically - will become environmentally-friendly tourist destinations
under a pilot project being planned by the Department.”
Thus, the Koh Larn Classic must be good news to
Director Mingkhwan, for there cannot be any more environmentally-friendly
pursuits than yacht racing and running, both of which rely on the inherent
gifts of Nature for mobility and performance and, certainly, which promote
the Marriott Resort’s own “eco-code of conduct” for protecting the
environment.
Present to distribute the prizes at the Royal Varuna
Yacht Club was Somsak, general manager of the Pattaya Marriott Resort and
Spa. And, just to make sure that all was normal, the very lively evening
ended to the dulcet tones of Antonio Jose Noriega and his Susie Wongish
rendition of: “Mee no Likee British sailor; Yakee give five dollars
more.”
Results, 2002 Koh Larn Classic:
Overall (first 10 times) 1. Baguley/Ellefsen (1.58.17);
2. Race/Schulz (2.10.56); 3. Cassio/Nyerges (2.21.43); 4. Reese/Quarmby
(2.22.09); 5. Jouke/Larsson (2.25.16); 6. Rockey/Rockey (2.30.49); 7.
Riddy/Riddy (2.31.35); 8. Herning/Willke (2.34.01); 9. Tim Wienands/Beviligton
(2.37.32); 10. Teewen/Noi (2.40.16)
Tim Wienands was first lady helm.
Runners (first 10 times) 1. Quarmby (38.39); 2. Schulz
(39.28); 3. Ellefsen (39.46); 4. Beviligton (43.42); 5. Suiyin Riddy
(47.15); 6. Larsson (48.11); 7. Gaile Rockey (49.23); 8. Weeks (49.38); 9.
Wilke (52.42); 10. Nyerges (52.59)
First lady runner: Suiyin Riddy; second, Gaile Rockey.
QBE Insurance Phang Nga Bay Regatta 2002
by Peter Cummins
What started out several years ago as basically a
follow-up to the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, the Phang Nga Bay Regatta
has joined the ‘big league’ of international events. In fact, it is
now more than that, for the three races which comprised this year’s
sailing took the big fleet of some 35 craft around what is arguably the
world’s most beautiful sailing/cruising area: Krabi and Phang Nga Bay.
With principal sponsor, the QBE Insurance Company, a
long time supporter of the King’s Cup and this regatta and co-sponsored
by the Natural Islands Resort, the Yacht Haven Marina and perennial
supporter of yacht racing and cruising around the Andaman Sea, the Phuket
Magazine, the 2002 Regatta was raced in beautiful conditions - if a little
light in the wind department: a familiar problem to participants in
successive Phuket King’s Cup Regattas, held in contiguous waters.
Our man on the spot, David Bell, sends me this
description which, with a few minor adaptations, I reproduce here. Fresh
from his second successive victory in the King’s Cup Regatta Cruising
Class 2 Division helming “Graffiti”, fronted up to the Phang Nga
committee, all ready for what he considered was his rightful place in the
Cruising Division. But his fame had spread - doesn’t it always? - it was
a clear case of “La noblesse oblige” - and he was ‘promoted’ to
Racing Class, in the company of such mighty machines as “Hocux Poxux”,
“Yo!” and “La Samudra” - all King’s Cup ‘graduates’.
 Rock
cliffs formed the backdrop to the Phang Nga Bay Regatta.
Appalled at his elevation, nevertheless, David went
forward and won the first race. The opening gambit, the Phuket Magazine
Round the Islands Race, started with a great spinnaker run from Ralai
Beach down to the first island about 8 n. m. away. Then a close reach
across to the Koh Hong Group. Rounding many islands in the group managed
to confuse more than a few participants. And this was not helped by a
dying and shifting breeze. Somehow, we managed to read the wind shifts
better than the others, and surprised ourselves by finishing alongside “Yo!”,
with “Graffiti” winning on handicap.
Placings, Phuket Magazine Race were: 1. “Graffiti”
(Racing); 1. “Tag” (Cruising A); 1. “Remington” (Cruising B) and
1. “Summersalt” (Multihulls).
The second race started in lighter conditions from Koh
Chong Lat. across Phang Nga Bay to the west and around a number of
islands, depending on which class one was in, then a common finish line at
the south end of Koh Panak. The wind fluctuated for a while, then
gradually died. Most yachts managed to finish by around 1400 hours.
Placings, Natural Island Resort Race: 1. “Hocux Pocux”
(Racing); 1. “Isobar” (Cruising A); 1. “Remington” (Cruising B)
and 1. “Summersalt” (Multihulls).
The Yacht Haven Marina Race started in 12-15 knots of
north easterly at 0830. Short beat up to the first mark, then a long
spinnaker run down to the entrance of the passage into Laem Praew.
“Graffiti” looked set to take the race and the regatta, but a slight
altercation with a fishing net saw “Graffiti” go from eight knots
forward to dead stop.
One of our brave lads, Andrew Homan, went over the side
and made short work of the net with a knife, but it cost us 25 minutes,
finishing that race in fifth place in a dying wind.
Overall, concluded David, it was a great regatta and
could well lead the way to more regular racing in these delightful waters.
After all, why not keep this in Thailand?
Overall results, QBE Insurance Phang Nga Bay
Regatta: Racing Class: 1. “Hocux Pocux”; 2. “Yo!”; 3.
“Graffiti”. Cruising A: 1. “Sobar”; 2. “Tag”; 3. “Pytheas
Aura”. Cruising B: 1. “Remington”; 2. “Rock and Blues”; 3.
“Fat Cat”. Multihulls: 1. “Summersalt”, 2. “Fine Pitch”; 3.
“Ceberus”.
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