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YWCA Bangkok-Pattaya Charity Bowling tournament
Team ‘Ascendant 2’ rises above competition to take home royal trophy
Suchada Tupchai
Ascendant 2, the winning team in the YWCA Bangkok-Pattaya
Chapter Charity Bowling tournament received the ‘HRH Princess Sirindhorn
Cup’ after defeating 46 other teams. Just eleven points separated first
and second place after a full day of bowling last Saturday.
 Mayor
Niran started the ball rolling, opening the annual YWCA Bangkok Pattaya
Charity Bowling Tournament at P.S. Bowl last Saturday.
Malinee Sariman, YWCA Bangkok-Pattaya Chapter president
welcomed players and honored guests. “Today’s tournament raises funds to
support scholarship programs for underprivileged children as part of the
YWCA’s ongoing ‘Happy Family Project’ and includes our lunch project
for school children and our new ‘Sai Yai Haeng Ruk’ (The bonds of love)
aimed at creating awareness and nurturing children in the region. Many of
our annual events, such as this one, are aimed at creating a better
community and helping the region’s children become better citizens,”
said Malinee.
 The
winning team of Ascendant 2 (l-r) Prasan Songwonsak, Parphum Prarngthong and
Nattawut Suppaisarn with ‘HRH Princess Sirindhorn Cup’.
Pattaya Mayor, Niran Wattanasartsathorn literally got the
ball rolling to start the competition at promptly at 9.30 a.m. at the P.S.
Bowling Saturday morning. In all, 47 teams including Thai and foreign
residents participated in the event. Competition was tough but fun as teams
of three battled for the highest score over three games for the coveted
trophy.
In the end it was Ascendant 2 edging out Rewat
Pollukin’s team by 11 points winning first place in the competition with
2,179 points versus 2,168. Third place team was the New Lucky Bar at 2,151
points.
In the singles category, Prasarn Sonwonsak, from
Ascendant 1 took out the highest score for the men with 745 points. In the
ladies’ class Wipa from the Jomtien Boathouse came out on top with 687
points.
Highest single game scores were returned by Niphan Choomsaeng, from the
Bangkok Pattaya Hospital team with 279 points, while ladies saw Thongpoon
Goodtalaeng of BB2 take home the trophy with 268 points.
Future tennis stars get training at Volvo Young Star Camp
Children proudly show off
their certificates they received from Maneerat Rungsombon (standing 5th
right) for the Volvo Young Star Camp.
Volvo Car (Thailand) Ltd. recently organized the
“Volvo Young Star Camp” for youngsters at the tennis court of the Dusit
Resort Pattaya. After the three day training program they received a
certificate from Maneerat Rungsombon, Volvo Car (Thailand) Ltd. customer
relations senior manager. The children will be selected to join the tennis
clinic as part of the program for the Volvo Women’s Open, scheduled to
take place from January 29 to February 6, 2005 at the Dusit Resort Pattaya.
Pattaya Sports Club 43rd Members Tournament at Eastern Star - Friday, October 15
This is a course that you either like, or hate, and on
the day it seemed that 106 Competitors decided they liked the course. There
is no doubt it has a great layout, and is a very difficult course to score
on, but it has always had dodgy greens. Great greens would make this a great
course, particularly as, in my opinion, it has the best restaurant in the
business. Maybe this dates from when they employed a master chef, but it has
lingered well.
Flights
winners (l-r), Kevin Mackintosh (A Flight), Derek Brook (B Flight), Rhys
Fastiggi (D Flight), Chant Schwulera (L Flight), Dave Richardson (C Flight)
with Chris John, PSC golf chairman.
On Tuesday it really poured down at Eastern Star and the
players finished in a downpour, dire forecasts were put forward for Friday
and on arrival it was apparent the course was soaked, still carts were
allowed, even if only two to a cart, so lets get down to it.
 Thomas
Johansson Low Gross (left) and Klaus Schiffer (right) High Points received
their trophies from Chris John (center), PSC golf chairman.
The booking in was carried out in it’s normal efficient
style, and here as always thanks go to Bernie and Ian, and well versed in
the play of the day it was off to our first tee, whether the First or Tenth,
and lets get the day underway. Sure enough it was soaking wet, and it was
difficult getting the ball into the air off the muddy ground, however once
on the green it was surprising how good the greens were, even if a little
wet and slow.
The weather was a little muggy as the ground dried out,
however as usual, it was a fine pleasant walk around, but how did the scores
go?.
The Monthly Tournament is played in five Flights. A &
B Flights, 0 to 18, play Strokeplay, whilst C & D Flights 19 to 36, and
the Ladies Flight played Stableford. The reasoning is quite straight
forward, good players play less shots and as such take less time, and all
you need to play stroke, is to get your handicap down.
So to the scores, and what an assorted bunch we had in
the various Flights. In the A Flight we had the eventual Gross Winner, who
was in a different class to the rest, and we shall mention him later. The
Winner of the Flight was Kevin Mackintosh with a Gross 80 and a net 68, one
shot ahead of in second Perry McNeely with a Gross 81 and a Net 69, and in
third was Arthur Hancock with a Gross 83 and a Net 72 winning third on
countback from Takeshi Hakozaki, he’ll never smile again.
In the B Flight we had the closest golf of the day, with
7 golfers within 3 shots, and with a net 69, Gross 82, Derek Brook came to
the fore in a countback over Gerhard Schulz, also net 69. Third was also
decided on countback on net 70 with Terry Phur coming in third and Ian
Edward just losing out despite shooting a fine Gross 83.
So to the Stableford half, and another ‘Class Act’
came to the fore to win, as ‘The Admiral’, alias Dave Richardson, won
with ease with 42 points. Second and third were decided on countback, with
39 points, between two more of our ‘regulars’, with the PSC golf
chairman, Chris John coming in second and Herb Schweiterman coming in third.
The D Flight usually provides the High Points Winner, and
so it did on this day, but more later, but with 40 points Rhys Fastiggi won
the Flight. In second place with 38 points was Colin Mathers and in third
was Ken Ince with 36 points. Surprisingly after these three the rest of the
Flight did relatively poorly with the next best only having 32 points.
So to the ‘Glamour’ of the day, and unless you have
seen a Thai Lady golfer swing a golf club you have not seen an elegant golf
swing! So the winner was Chant Schwulera with 39 points ahead of Nattaporn
Thongpen with 35 points and a countback for third, with 34 points, won by
Mam Trayling with Nora Haugsjordet and Usa Chaiyosit losing out.
On to the big two and the winner of ‘The Low Gross’
was Thomas Johansson with a Gross 75. Thomas is a cut above the rest of the
golfers here and luckily the collection taken up for him has worked and he
will be flying home next week. The ‘High Points’ was won by Klaus
Schiffer with 44 points. There is no truth in the rumour that next month the
presentation to the main winners will be new shirts.
Later in the restaurant the Chris John, golf chairman thanked his helpers
and his sponsors, particularly PSC, Eastern Star, Diana Group, 60’s Bar,
Harley Bar, McAllisters, Blue Parrot, Tahitian Queen, Cafe Kronborg and
Misty’s. He then passed the microphone to Alan and the night passed
quickly. T.T.F.N.
Results:
Low Gross: Thomas Johansson
High Points: Klaus Schiffer
A Flight Winner: Kevin Mackintosh, Second: Perry McNeely, Third: Arthur
Hancock
B Flight Winner: Derek Brook, Second: Gerhard Schulze, Third: Terry Phur
C Flight Winner: Dave Richardson, Second: Chris John, Third: Herb
Schwieterman
D Flight Winner: Rhys Fastiggi, Second: Colin Mathers, Third: Ken Ince
L Flight Winner: Chant Schwulera, Second: Nattaporn Thongpen, Third: Mam
Trayling
New League starts today
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
The new 30-week league starts today, October 22 and once
again have 12 teams plus at least three regular spare bowlers available to
fill in. In the just completed league we only had 10 teams. Team members
were drawn in a blind draw, which gives all teams a change to win.
First
place team bowlers in the just completed league - Tian, P.K. and La
On Friday October 15 the new teams bowled a fun week with
prizes given for high men and women game and series with handicap. The
winners were:
High game handicap women: Pao-235
High series handicap women: Ow-606
High game handicap men: Bill Gibson-223
High series handicap men: Konrad-593
Brutal Burapha Takes its Toll
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
On Tuesday, October 11, the original Bunker Boys left the OK Corral in
high spirits smiling at the thoughts of a day’s golf on the magnificent
course at Burapha, where only two days previously the Thai PGA had held one
of its annual major events. Indeed the course, Crystal and Dune, was the
very one used on the last day with unchanged pin positions and lightning
fast greens. Following in the footsteps and divots of the region’s golfing
elite was an awesome challenge with the blue tees placed as far back as
possible and only a few yards in front of those used by the “big boys”
at the weekend. Only one player managed to break par and this speaks volumes
about the proportion of the task.
In division two Ray Spurling toiled to a net 84 and held
third place whilst John Stolarczy went two shots better to take second place
with his hard worked 82. Brian Bellis scored his worst score for many a
round but still took the divisional honours with net 80.
Division one saw no better as Keith Hector’s net 82
gave him third place, two shots behind Bob Pearce whose 80 was a long way
behind the only respectable score of the day, Stuart Thompson’s net 76,
off his ten handicap. Elsewhere there were no birdie twos, unsurprisingly,
and when Steve Nowell launched an iron into the air after a frustrating
series of shots, his frustration turned to embarrassment as he was obliged
to climb a tree to retrieve it.
This monkey business was to guarantee him the Bananas,
shunning even the claims of Alan McGrory and his high net 91. It was a
humbling experience for all and puts the golfing media’s claim that
“These Guys are Good” into an entirely new perspective.
Nowell and Elliott succeed
at Treasure Hill
On Thursday, October 14, the route to Treasure Hill
proved to be an easier task to navigate for the Bunker Boys from the OK
Corral as they travelled there for their weekly stableford event. The
revamping of the road has certainly made the course more accessible from
Pattaya and it still tempts golfers with its tight fairways, daunting rough
and carefully positioned hazards. It was well presented with only remedial
work around some of the greens marring its appearance.
As usual good scores were at a premium and again a par
total proved impossible to achieve. In division two, Roy Mitchell found some
form at a course he loves with a hard earned 29 points to take runner-up
position whilst new member, Keith Elliott, took the top spot with a good 32
points. In the top flight David Lightfoot amassed 31 points to take second
place, only one behind the winner Steve Nowell, whose first nine total of
nineteen lulled him into anticipating a sub par round, but four points on
the final four holes put the brakes on his challenge and he ended up with 32
points. Alan McGrory had the honour of firing the day’s only birdie two,
on hole six, and his smiles as he took the rolled-over award showed his
satisfaction with the day. Not so Peter Allen, though, a winner the previous
week with 43 points at Bangpra, for he found that being
“rule-nineteened” had effectively limited him to 20 points and the
Banana Booby prize. Ultimately Treasure Hill had won again but the challenge
remains on the table for the next visit in a few weeks time.
PSC golf from the Three Sisters
It was a miserable day for some and great for others. I
believe the others played at Pattaya Country Club. With no carts at Siam,
the Monday golfers split in two. The walkers stayed at Siam playing on very
wet grounds while the golfers that needed carts went to Pattaya Country
Club. Although the conditions were better at Pattaya Country Club, the
winning scores came from Siam.
Winner for the day, winning on countback, was Hamilton
Wilson. Both he and Tim Holt came in with a respectable 38 points with very
wet conditions. It was an excellent score considering the wet field and
bumpy greens. The greens are getting better but still needs a bit more
smoothing out. Hopefully by next week the greens will be in better shape.
Following the winners were Terry Morris with 37 points
and Kevin Macintosh and Doug Thalkley with 36 point each. They were close
but could not catch the leaders for the day.
Holding the bag this week again this week was oldster
Marvin Smith. Marvin came in with 20 points just one less than his playing
partner Rollie Weese. Both of these guys played at Pattaya Country Club and
finished their round in 3 1/2 hours.
With their total age being over 150 years, I find it a
great inspiration for the rest of us playing golf that they still are out
there swinging away. Thank you Marvin and Rollie for setting such an
example for the rest of us. Keep it up and hope to see you both every
Monday while you are in country.
Wacko Jacko takes the monthly tankard
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s!
Sunday October 10 Green
Valley - White Tees Monthly Medal
1st A Flight: Jack Grindvold, net 68
2nd A Flight: Phil Mitchell, net 69
3rd A Flight: Klaus Schackt, net 70
1st B Flight: Colin Davis, net 69
2nd B Flight: John Foote, net 69
3rd B Flight: Nat Meesuk, net 70
Near Pins: # 13 Curt Neurohr, # 16 PJ Redmond
“He’s really not Wacko” Jacko Grindvold picked up
his first outright Monthly Medal. He had previously qualified for the year
end 2004 Gold Medal competition in April but lost out on the Monthly Tankard
on count back to Joe Mooneyham, ironically shooting 68 both times. He was
hotly pursued by A Flight silver medalist Phil Mitchell and B Flight winner
and runner-up, Colin “The Donkey” Davis and John Foote, each but a
stroke back. For any of the podium qualifiers there was a tale of woe of
what could have been. However, the reason for The Donkey’s demise was
quite apparent as he went eight over on his last five holes after going five
over on the first thirteen! John Foote is beginning to find his way onto the
podium as he falls into the rhythm of Pattaya golf. His wife Lyn is
certainly but a stroke or two behind. Klaus Schackt, now a continued
presence on the Sunday podium came third in A Flight with a level to
standard scratch net 70. Nat Meesuk, under the tutelage of Klaus and An
Kaesavane during beau Johnny McHugh’s loss to work, worked her way onto
the last step of B Flight.
Tuesday October 12 Laem
Chabang - B & C - White tees Stableford
1st A Flight: Rick Sharp, net 70
2nd A Flight: Gary Blackburne, net 71
3rd A Flight: Phil Groves, net 71
1st B Flight: Jeremy Masse, net 69
2nd B Flight: Jan Eriksen, net 74
3rd B Flight: Danny Dykes, net 74
The Hermit”, lethal off an eleven handicap, was good
enough, albeit barely, to edge victory veterans Gary Blackburne and Phil
Mitchell. Gary bettered “Flipper” on count back for second. B flight’s
Jeremy Masse was Man of the Match at net 69 on the demanding duo of the B
“Lake” course and the C “Valley Course. Jan Eriksen had the better of
a three-way count back for 2nd, with Danny Dyke picking up the still
respectable third spot. Poor Tore Elgvin took the short stick.
Wednesday October 13 Khao
Kheow - A & B - Yellow or White Tees Stableford
1st Yellow Flight: Jack Grindvold, 33 pts
2nd Yellow Flight: Jim Munns, 33 pts
1st White Flight: Klaus Schackt, 42 pts
2nd White Flight: Brian Wilkinson, 40 pts
3rd White Flight: Seamus Brennan, 40 pts
Klaus “The Volkscomputer” Schackt referenced his
database, continued his hard work on his game and brought home the bratwurst
with a best on the day with 42 points off the shorter 5,780 yard White Tees.
He was followed by the enigmatic duo of Brian Wilkinson and Seamus Brennan.
The former took second, thanks to the dreaded count back. The bangers took
on the 6,259 yard Yellow Tee version of the Dye design course and the
disparity in scores emphasized the delta in difficulty. The top two were
separated by only a count back with only 33 points. Our recently crowned
Monthly Medal winner Wacko Jacko had the better of Capt. Fogg, the latter
being plagued by an off-form 14 point back nine.
Friday October 15 Phoenix
Mountain & Ocean Blue or White Tees Stroke/Medal
1st Blue Flight: Cory Neurohr, net 72
1st A White Flight: Rick Sharp, net 72
2nd A White Flight: Jack Spencer, net 73
3rd A White Flight: Klaus Schackt, net 74
1st B White Flight: Roger Koehler, net 69
2nd B White Flight: Tore Elgvin, net 70
3rd B White Flight: Nat Meesuk, net 72
Near Pins: Blue Flight - Pat Manley, White Flight - Norm
Robinson
For the second time this week The Golf Society showed its
flexibility by allowing the field to select the tee boxes they wished to
play and the majority chose the 6,224 yard white tees. A brave contingent of
nine took on the 6,710 yard blue tees and Cory Neurohr showed he was up to
the task as he shot gross 80, net 72. Cory, along with his brother Curt, Pat
Manley and Brent Merron spend their time away from Pattaya as caddies at
some of the premier golf course in the states.
Roger Koehler was man of the match as the only player to
net out in the 60’s, and in so doing placed first in the B Flight of the
White tee division. He was followed by improving Tore Elgvin and the now
seemingly ever present Nat Meesuk. It should be noted that Tore’s
improvement, assisted by long time resident pro Richard Livingston, was all
the more significant in that he is playing off the society maximum 28
handicap, rather than his computer suggested 30 handicap. That necessity
looks as though it is on its way to being a thing of the past.
“The Hermit” was atop the A Flight listings for the
second time on the week with a net 70 off the white tees, followed by newly
arrived “Happy Jack” Spencer and The Volkscomputer, Klaus Schackt.
Klaus’ third place might have been of the pyrrhic type, as he edged mate
An Kaesavane on count back. Klaus may have to develop some data now on how
he plays after sleeping on the couch!
Scott Cosban wins by five
Shenanigans Very Friendly Golf Society
Mike Franklin
Plutaluang is probably the only course to still allow
golf carts when the fairways are awash after heavy persistent rain.
Well-positioned markers take you on a route where little damage can be done,
even with two-up and caddies, and due credit to the Navy course management
for making this possible. No problem for Scott Cosban who carded 40
stableford points, and was able to make the mental adjustment from the
anticipated Pairs Scramble to a Singles Stableford format, that decision
taken just before tee-off on the South & East courses.
 Winner
Scott Cosban (left), Nora Haugsjordet, runner-up and Mike Franklin back at
Shenanigans after a day out at Plutaluang.
Nora Haugsjordet had the best gross of the day with 81
and the 35 points from her 8 handicap was good enough to take the runner-up
spot. Ian Warwick closely followed with 34 points and eager Usa Chaiyosit
took fourth place with 32 points.
Not everybody finished the round as another storm hit,
including Mam Trayling who took consolation with near pins on S.7 and E.2.
Nora Haugsjordet and Ian Warwick claimed the other two, Nora also sinking
the longest putt on S.9. Wanida Reed was longest in the cup on E.9. ‘Pork
Chop Night’ was the Tuesday special on Shenanigans menu and prizes were
duly awarded. Newcomer Peter Lunt, playing with Ian Dickson, was duly
welcomed.
Next outing is the switch to Wednesday, starting with a 5 Clubs Pairs
Scramble at Eastern Star on Wednesday October27. Sign-up in pairs please at
Shenanigans.
By George, he does it again!
PSC golf with The Bunker
The Boys from The Bunker travelled to Burapha Golf Course
to play a Medal round and found themselves playing C and D courses, which
had just been used for a televised Thai Championship. Conditions were
overcast and play was interrupted for half an hour by a very heavy shower.
 Mitch
Malone struggling in the bunker.
With wet fairways, soggy greens and very long rough grass
George May yet again battled against the elements to return a card of Net 76
to take first prize, no mean achievement considering the conditions and very
awkward pin positions.
That’s three on the trot for George! Second place went
to Duncan Lee with Net 79, Duncan has just returned to the golf circuit
after an extensive lay-off and claims his good round is down to being put on
the straight and narrow by the love of his life! Third place was claimed by
David Johnson who has recently returned from England and explained the golf
lessons he’s been having got him on to the leader board! Nearest the pin
prizes were won by George May, Duncan Lee and Mick Ramshaw.
Thursday October 14
Century Ban Chang Stableford
On another overcast day and after a night of heavy rain
the fairways were sodden and the greens very tricky to master but once again
George May who seems to thrive in wet conditions won first prize to return
to the clubhouse with an amazing 43 stableford points making it four
victories in a row - heading for the chop soon methinks! Second place went
to Terry Phur with 36 points and there was a four way tie for third spot
with Lez Hall, Mikael Anderssen, William Macey and Mitch Malone all
returning cards with 35 points but Mikael got third place on a count back.
Near the pins were won by Mitch Malone, Bill Macey, Mikael Anderssen and Bob
Lawrence.
You can get the latest golf schedules for The Bunker Boys and information
about all other sporting activities at The Bunker Bar by visiting our
website @ www.bunkerboysgolf.com
Muffy makes a winning return to The Haven
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday October 11 Great Lakes Stableford
1st Trevor Schirmer, 36 pts
2nd Bob Lindborg, 34 pts-c/b 17
3rd Trevor Edge, 34 pts-c/b 15
This was the second time that the Haven had been to Great
Lakes in the last three months, each time we go hoping for a miracle, in terms
of a gigantic improvement to the course, but alas this was not to be on this
occasion. It is one of the best designed courses in the region, and could become
very popular if they were to spend a little money on maintaining the rough, and
putting sand in the bunkers, which were totally devoid of sand. On the plus
side, the fairways were reasonable, although wet, and the greens were as good as
if not better than many around Pattaya. The green fees for the whole of October
are 100 baht weekdays and 200 baht weekends.
 Great
Lakes winner Trevor Schirmer
The day belonged to Trevor Schirmer, who never misses a week
without being on the podium, with his excellent 36 points. He was followed by
Bob Lindborg who edged out Trevor with his 17 points on the back nine.
The two’s were shared between Mikeal Anderrson and Major
Roy
Wednesday October 13 Khao
Kheow Stableford
1st William Macy, 34 pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer, 33 pts
3rd Doug Campbell, 31 pts-c/b 19
4th Barry Traynor, 31 pts-c/b 15
Off the yellow tees in excellent conditions, on an excellent
course, the course won as no one broke par, the best round of the day was
William Macy with his 34 points being good enough to beat ‘Mr. Consistent’,
Trevor Schirmer by one shot, with Doug Campbell, Barry Traynor and Terry Morris
filling the minor placings.
 Wednesday’s
Lucky Two’s winner Trevor Edge
This was only the third time that William has played at the
Haven this year, and his record of two wins and a fourth in the past six weeks,
prompted a loud cheer and waving of flags, when back at the Haven where Richard
Livingston, resident PGA professional said it was time to say a short farewell
for his return to the UK.
Trevor Edge must have thought he was dreaming when he had the
only two, to win the rollover pot.
Friday October 15 Phoenix
Mountain/Lakes Medal
1st Murray (Muffy) Kerr, 70
2nd Barry Traynor, 71
3rd Fred Ewins, 73-c/b 37
4th Randal Penrod, 73-c/b 37.5
On a day when the course was busy, and a much later start was
had, frustration had the better of certain players with several no returns, not
more quickly than yours truly, who N. R’d after one shot at the first!
The best round of the day went to Murray Kerr, playing at the
Haven after a long absence, with a net 70. Barry Traynor’s 71 was the best of
the also - ran. There were no two’s so the pool is carried over.
At the Haven, Richard welcomed back, Randal Penrod and Muffy Kerr.
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday October 11 Treasure
Hill Golf and Country Club Stroke
Treasure Hill was host for a stroke play competition in
two Flights, A Flight 0 to 13 and B Flight 14 and above. The course on the
day was in good condition with the exception of three sanded greens.
 Jeff
Wylie
Aussie Jeff Wylie was the winner in the A Flight on
countback from Clive Robinson in second, both net 72’s. In third was
Takeshi Hakozaki with a net 74 on countback from Thomas Johansson and Stu
Thompson. Brian Noguer took the B Flight on a countback from Richard Kubicki
in second, both on net 71. In third was Philippe Berra with a net 72.
For all interested golfers Pattana Sports Club is now
open for play. green and caddy fee for PSC golfers is 850 Baht, and the
course is located 2km east of route 331 on route 3241. The course is long
with wide fairways, and has large greens with lots of undulations.
 Philippe
Berra
Thursday October 14, Khao
Kheow Stableford
The players who go to this course know what to expect,
excellent food in the restaurant, especially ‘Khao Kheow Beef’, and a
hot and torrid time on the golf course. On the last 3 competitions to be
played there, approximately 120 players in total have tried to beat the
course and only three players have actually beaten their handicap. Two of
those by only one shot.
 Brian
Noguer
So is this really a monster? And the answer has to be No.
It is however one tough course that does not suffer fools gladly. Play well
and it will be to your benefit, play a bad shot and you are dead. The
designer of this course is known to be a ‘Master Golf Sadist’ and do we
know! Bob Bender’s comment of shoot your handicap and you will win has
proved to be a master comment.
So to the day, and it was wet, no excuse, but it was a
fine day to have a round of golf. Cool and breezy and a day to shoot good
scores, except for wet fairways.
 Stuart
Thompson
In the A Flight, 0 to 15, the winner with 36 points was
Stuart Thompson with, in the circumstances, a fine 36 points, the best score
of the day. We then had a three way countback on 31 points that saw Derek
Brook in second, Rick Evans in third and Takeshi Hakozaki just losing out.
He will never smile again.
In the B Flight, 16 up, the winner was Philippe Berra with net 35 ahead
of Dave Richardson with 34 points and a countback for third on 33 points
with Brian Noguer in third and Ebrahim just losing out. T.T.F.N.
Edith’s Pirates make Elephants walk the plank!
The Original Pattaya Pool League - Round 1
Group B: Elephant Bar v
Edith’s Relax Bar
Elephant Bar is definitely not one bar you are likely to
stumble across by mistake. But once you have, you will definitely return. The
first venue for the night’s shot by shot coverage of Pool around Pattaya
was tucked away down the far end of soi Asia Beach opposite the Asia Hotel
towards Jomtien. Sadly, we were informed at the last moment that Ian “The
Snack” could not be present to join in the fun this evening.
 Captain
Whitebeard “taking no prisoners”
First up it was Su “Mahout” breaking for Elephant Bar.
Whilst this lady played a respectable game she was no match for Bernie from
Edith’s Relax Bar near the Bua Khao market in South Pattaya. Unfortunately
neither was Addy when George stole the second game as well. But Boy pulled
back a point for the Elephants against Jeff, as did Pete against Willy making
the score neck and neck at 2 games all. Paul then came up against “Captain
Whitebeard” John (Edith’s) was taking no prisoners as he calmly potted
away and on his second attempt on the black, sank it without a trace, making
it 3 - 2.
And so it was Danny against “Edge”. At the time of
going to print we are not quite sure whether this is his real name because a
European accent was detected when he mumbled something under his breath or
maybe it was a reference to his playing style since he left most of his balls
around the edge of the pockets! Danny opened with a “dry break” so with
nothing down, Edge played the next shot. What followed was some tactical play
from both sides. 2 spots down then a safety shot from Danny and then Edge
followed by doing exactly the same. As the game progressed Edge proceeded to
crowd a corner pocket with balls all protecting the black in the middle of
them all. At one point, he even left the white touching the black, as the
balls “edged” closer to the pocket. Edge then pushed the black away from
the pocket as he waited for his moment where he could clear up the table.
Still Danny played safe shots in retaliation. It was just a question of who
had the nerve to go for the “finish”. There was an eerie silence as the
two players slowly calculated each shot. Neither side was giving anything
away because this was a crucial game with Elephant Bar being 2 - 3 down.
Could they get a draw before half time or would Edith’s move into the
doubles games with a lead of 4 - 2? You could cut the atmosphere with a
knife!
At this point the aroma of spaghetti Bolognese and freshly
cut bread as well as spicy Thai mixed seafood salads with larb-pork stuffed
into cool cucumber shells mingled in the air. Maybe this was the real reason
why everyone had gone silent. They were tucking into the delicious feast
generously laid on by the management. No crusty, curled up ham sandwiches on
the menu from this Bar! That was for sure.
Both players were down to 2 balls each remaining on the
table before the final black. The look on Danny’s face changed as he moved
in for the kill. It was now time to snatch this game and get that oh-so
valuable point for the Elephants.
Danny, with only 2 spots remaining on the table calmly
began his attack run. Moments later he was down to the black ball. He was
left with a long shot into the corner but narrowly missed.
Edge then potted his last 2 remaining stripes and he was
now onto the black, but instead of going for the pot he played it safe yet
again leaving the black in the centre on a cushion and the white up the other
end of the table. Danny played his shot and got the black closer to the
pocket but left Edge with a relatively straightforward shot.
The end came as Danny drove the black down but not without
a final gasp from everyone as the white nearly followed the black in bouncing
(just like on a pinball table) round the jaws of the pocket before finally
deciding to stay up!
Jetlag affects Cotton
Club’s performance - Group B: Bolaget v Cotton Club
Bolaget is Swedish for Company, in case you are wondering.
An easy word for some English people to spell wrong especially if we don’t
know what it means! And so it was that the Bolags Styrelse (Board of
Directors) came up against the mighty Wolfgang and his formidable German-Thai
team from The Cotton Club all the way across town in deepest, darkest Naklua
soi 12, right in the heart of “Little Germany”, as some would say.
It certainly is a destination location (if you can find
it!) and like the Elephant Bar, has a spacious restaurant, half inside and
half outside, with some great international food on offer. The only
difference is that Cotton Club has an air-conditioned “cosy-chill out bar
inside and with some charming hostesses to help one relax after a hard
day’s work on the suntan! At least it did, the last time I went there
which, admittedly, was a while ago.
It was “Dancing” Martin from Cotton Club who
pirouetted around the table and stole the first game of the evening from
Perry. But then, what turned out to be probably the longest match ever in the
history of the Pattaya Pool League, started...
Pinky aka “The Sink” (because he can pour whatever he
likes down his throat, including more than a few vodka nam-soms and can still
stand up - sort of!) got to work on Nat. Thirty-five minutes later and having
given away 20 shots from 10 fouls Pinky won this marathon match! With
encouraging words from his team members like, “Get him a white stick!”
and “Bet you can’t down this drink in one again” (as well as Pinky
himself asking the referee a few times “Am I on spots or stripes?”)
echoing around Jomtien Complex area this was truly a game that will be
remembered for a long time, except maybe by Pinky himself, who was last seen
with his flies undone (much to the amusement of the service staff) hunting
for his bike keys on the pavement outside the bar.
The next 3 games saw USA Jim spare no time eliminating
Little Miss “Mas”, (in the tight black shorts rumoured to be painted on)
leaving her with 5 balls on the table then “In-off-the-break” Dennis
destroyed Wolfgang with his inspired positioning of the white ball between
each shot. It was a close game between Andy and Rocco. Although he played a
very safe and tactical game it just wasn’t enough to deter Andy who cleared
up leaving him 3 balls remaining on the table.
But “Shot of the Match” had to go to Ian (Bolaget)
when he played Nok. He was down to the black and potted it with a skillfully
controlled shot but the white ball then followed onto her remaining ball
which then went trickling down the pocket as well making it 4 - 2 at half
time to Bolaget.
With Spinner coming on as substitute for the “injured” Pinky, Boss
Peter replacing Perry, (who escorted Pinky home) in the doubles Bolaget went
on to win all 3 games easily with Dennis cleanly and consistently potting
(again!) the ultimate black ball of the match. With some traditional Swedish
hot-pot stew personally prepared by Peter himself for the teams it certainly
was a night to remember down in Jomtien for everyone. Next week it’s War in
Soi Bua Khao and a Battle in No Man’s Land - on the far side of Sukhumvit
Road!
Pattaya welcomes home local Olympians
Hero’s’ welcome for star athletes
Suchada
Tupchai
Provincial Olympians and star athletes received a warm
welcome at a celebration held in their honor last week. Pattaya and
provincial administrations and the Chonburi Athletics Association gave a
hero’s welcome to Para-Olympians including double gold medal winner
Supahcai Goysup and fellow Para-Olympic teammates Nirute Soneebutr, Orawan
Butrpote and Worawit Kaewkhum at a party held at Ban Sukhawdee. Aran
Homraruen, Thai Olympic windsurfer and Yodsanan ‘3K Battery’ were also
honored at the event.
 Supahcai
Goysup proudly shows off his two gold medals from this year’s Athens
Para-Olympics.
Phisit Khetpasook, Chonburi governor welcomed the
athletes home from their efforts abroad said, “I feel honored that
Chonburi athletes have developed and honed their skills to compete on an
international scale. It is a great inspiration to the people of the province
knowing that they have world class athletes in their midst.”
Athletes
and officials on stage (front, left to right), Supahcai Goysup, Nirute
Soneebutr, Orawan Butrpote and Worawit Kaewkhum and local athletes Yodsanan
3K Battery and Aran Homraruen (third and fourth from right, respectively.
The formalities proceeded with officials handing over
100,000 baht to Supahcai Goysup for his two gold medals in the Para
Olympics, as well 20,000 baht each to the other athletes. The funds will go
towards supporting them in their efforts for future sporting events.
Father
Banchong Chaiyara (far right), Redemptorist Vocational College for the
Disabled director accepted the 1 million baht donation from Pattaya City
Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn (far left), Wittaya Khunplome (2nd left),
Chonburi Athletics Association president, and Phisit Khetpasook, Chonburi
governor, who pledge support for the athletes in further sporting
activities.
Dr. Panya Chottawan, Ban Sukhadee owner, also handed over
an additional 150,000 baht to the athletes. Adding to the support of
disabled athletes, Pattaya City and Chonburi Provincial administrations then
donated 1 million baht to the Redemptorist Vocational College for the
Disabled to assist and support the athletes in further sporting activities.
All athletes gathered on stage to relay their experiences
in Athens and promised to continue their efforts and bring home more gold
for Thailand at the next Olympic Games. “I will do my best to bring back
more gold for Thailand in four year’s time,” said Supahcai Goysup.
On stage, the athletes then sang ‘Kept Tawan’ (Keeping the day) to an
emotional crowd of well wishers.
Huay Yai Sub-district to organize a mountain bike competition for The Royal Cup
Contest held on November 20
In the Huay Yai sub-district, The Bike for Health Club
and Pattaya City will organize the 1st “Huay Yai Mountain Bike 2004”
competition for a prize of The Royal Highness Somsawali Cup and 50,000 baht
on Saturday November 20 at the Huay Yai sub-district office.
The competition was organized to support sport tourism
and provide an exciting event for mountain bike enthusiasts.
This competition has 5 categories; Type A, male/female
400 baht to apply for entry, Type B male/female 350 baht to apply for entry,
Type C for all 300 baht to apply for entry, Type D for all 250 baht to apply
for entry, Type V.I.P. 1,500 baht to apply for entry.
Applicants can contact the Huay Yai sub-district office
at Tel. 038-239439; Wicha Sirikarn, Tel. 06-1397762; Naruephon
Chawalitnititham, Tel. 01- 5765593; Chor Namchai, Tel. 038-222018; Sompot
Singhaphan, Tel. 01-3491107; Worlds Bike Shop, Sriracha, Tel. 038-312572;
Racha Bicycle Shop, Tel. 038-770097 from now until Saturday, November 20.
This competition is certified by the Thailand Bicycle Association.
Sink or Swim gets closer!
Orphans to benefit from swimathon
The Jomtien-Pattaya Rotary charity swimathon from the
Bali Hai area in south Pattaya to the Dusit Resort point in north Pattaya is
well on target, both swim-wise and charity-wise.
 Simon
Simms veteran Australian marathon swimmer will lead the way on the October
31 swimming three kilometers across Pattaya Bay from the lighthouse near the
Bali Hai pier to the Dusit Resort Pattaya.
Originator and organizer Simon Simms is an Australian
veteran of marathon swimming, who was so taken by the plight of the 52
children in the Ban Jing Jai orphanage, that he decided to unpack his
swimming trunks and swim to raise money for these 52 good causes!
Following the Pattaya Mail’s publicizing of the event,
which will be held on October 31, four other swimmers have joined Simon,
including the ‘pencil turn’ professional Dusit Dave Garred, Bruce
McDermott another Aussie, Rotarian Willi Zimmerman, and a 16 year old girl
whom we will put in a shark-proof cage to save her from the other swimmers
(there are no sharks)!
50,000 baht has been raised so far with sponsorship
pledges from Fosters Lager the Queen Victoria Inn (Soi Yodsak), the Lucky
Time Bar (Soi Nernplubwan), and the Queen Vic in Soi Honey. Simon has set
his sights on getting to 100,000 baht, so if any of the businesses in
Pattaya can see their way clear to put 10,000 baht in the kitty, the Rotary
Club of Jomtien-Pattaya will be very grateful.
Simon welcomes any other long distance swimmers who would
like to join him in the swimathon. Just bring along your swim trunks and
some sponsorship! Splash-off will be at 2 p.m. There will be a flotilla of
boats to follow them the three kilometers across Pattaya Bay from the
lighthouse just past the Bali Hai pier to the Dusit Resort and Simon boasts
that so far he has never lost a swimmer in any of his marathons! Having been
in the Australian Surf Life-saving association for many years, he means it
too.
You can contact any member of the Jomtien-Pattaya Rotary Club, or Thor
Halland Tel. 038 488 040, email: [email protected].
Thailand’s richest Eight- Ball challenge comes to Pattaya
The 4th Megabreak Challenge will be held at the new
Megabreak Pool Lounge, Soi Diana Inn, Pattaya on Saturday and Sunday
November 6 and 7, 2004.
Sanctioned by and under the direction of the Billiard
Sports Association of Thailand, the Megabreak Challenge is limited to the
first 128 people to register in person at the venue.
 Dan
Black, Megabreak International managing partner and the Megabreak girls
present the 4th Megabreak Challenge. Players will do battle on the table
vying for 100,000 baht first prize.
Dan Black, Megabreak International managing partner said,
“I am delighted to announce that we have players coming from Taiwan,
Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, the Philippines as well as the entire Thai
nation team vying for the 100,000 baht prize purse.
We are looking forward to welcoming top players such as
Thailand’s number one snooker champion Rom Surin, former Megabreak
champion Chang Pramote and former Thai national 9-ball champion Chatchawal
Ruthpae.”
Those wishing to enter can register at Megabreak Pool Lounge, Soi Diana
Inn, Pattaya. Entry fee is 995 baht for competitors and free for spectators.
The event will be staged from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both days. For entry
details and further information visit: www.megabreakpool.com
Marsh clinches win as Chen crowned Class B Champion
Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia - Taebaek Circuit, Korea
A-Ha Racing’s Matthew Marsh of Britain scored his
second victory of the day taking top honours in Rounds 9 and 10 of the
Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia, while A1 Racing Team’s Max Chen
clinched the Class B championship title at South Korea’s 2.5km Taebaek
Circuit.
Marsh almost led the pack from pole to flag for the
second time today, but it was not to be a repeat of his earlier,
unchallenged win. As he had predicted, it was series leader Fuspeed
Racing’s Charoensukhawatana Nattavude who almost denied him his fourth win
in five rounds.
The start
of round 9 of the Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia at Korea’s Taebaek
Circuit last weekend.
The Thai made a blinding getaway to overtake the Briton
off the grid, and held the lead until lap four when disaster struck and he
spun. “Nattavude did a great job on the first lap,” said Marsh. “I
made a mistake, probably because of the pressure from him. Then he spun!
He’s been incredibly consistent all season and he deserved to win
today.”
Crest Jaseri Racing Team’s Rizal Ramli was second and
visibly thrilled to be on the podium. The Malaysian started from 6th on the
grid but was up to 4th by the end of the second lap when Nattavude spun.
Ramli made his move on reigning champion Charles Kwan in the closing stages
of the race. “I was chasing Ramli,” said Kwan, “but he’s very hard
to pass!” Team Infineon-Novellus driver Kwan crossed the line 3rd, making
up for the setbacks he experienced in the earlier round.
Despite not finishing on the podium In Class B on this
occasion, Chen’s 4th place was enough to give him an unassailable lead in
the points table, earning him the 2004 Class B title. Commented Porsche Asia
Pacific regional marketing manager, Dr. Henrik Dreier: “The entire series
is absolutely delighted for Max. He is a superb driver and tremendously
competitive. He has demonstrated the very best in sportsmanship and it has
been our privilege to have him in the series this year.”
In the race, it was once again series guest driver Akira
Hirakawa who took win in Class B, followed by William “Chip” Conner II,
also on the podium for the second time today, with Scott Miau in third.
“I really owe a lot to Max (Chen’s) teaching and
guidance over the year - he is my friend and my mentor,” said Miau. Chen
didn’t fare so well after having a slight off which put him back to finish
4th in the Class, but the championship title was more than a consolation.
Despite his setback, Nattavude still tops the Class A
championship leader board, but the gap to Marsh is now just a single point.
However, reigning champion Team Infineon-Novellus driver Charles Kwan of
Hong Kong could still clinch a second title at his “home” race at the
Macau Grand Prix in November. Kwan trails Nattavude by 16 points, and with
20 up for grabs at Macau, the 2004 Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia title
will be decided in the final race of the 11-round season. All three drivers
have considerable experience of the infamous Guia street circuit, so the
final showdown will be a real treat for racing fans.
The deciding round of the Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup
Asia will be held on November 20 and 21 as part of the 51st Macau Grand
Prix.
Supporting the series are two of the most recognised
names in international motorsport, Mobil1 and Michelin. Mobil and Porsche
have been partners since 1996. Close co-operation in research and
development has to led to every new Porsche engine being filled with Mobil1
high-performance lubricant. Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia drivers also
have the advantage of high technology tyres, supplied by series partner
Michelin, that have consistently improved the performance of many teams in
international motorsport. The partnership between Michelin and the Porsche
Infineon Carrera Cup Asia has emerged from a worldwide agreement signed
between Porsche AG and the Michelin group in 2001.
The Porsche Infineon Carrera Cup Asia runs as part of the Asian Festival
of Speed, organised by Malaysian-based Motorsport Asia Limited.
Lee takes victory
in 2004 grand finale
Formula BMW Asia Round 14 -Taebaek Circuit, Korea
Taebaek, Korea - Marchy Lee (HKG/Team Meritus) took the
final win of the 2004 Formula BMW Asia season last Sunday at Korea’s 2.5km
Taebaek Circuit, bringing his tally of wins to 12 out of 14 races, and
breaking the record set by 2003 champion Tung Ho Pin.
 Marchy
Lee victorious in 2004 grand finale of the Formula BMW Asia winning rounds
13 and 14 at Korea’s Taebaek Circuit.
Lee dominated the 20-lap race from pole to chequered
flag, opening up a 4.371 second lead from second-placed Hanss Lin Po Heng (TPE/Belgravia
Motorsport). Third home was 2004 Rookie Cup winner 20-year-old Mehdi Bennani
(MOR/Team Meritus).
Second top Rookie Cup finisher and 4th overall was
17-year-old Hamed Al Fardan (BRN/Belgravia Motorsport), who had finished the
earlier round in 2nd place overall.
 Marchy
Lee (HKG/Team Meritus) drove the fastest lap on Sunday with a time of 55.112
seconds.
Top BMW Junior finisher was Nik Iruwan Nik Izani
(MAS/Team Meritus) who had a slight coming together with Mohammed Al Baharna
(BRN/Belgravia Motorsport), resulting in minor damage from which he never
quite recovered. Fellow BMW Junior driver Robert T. Boughey (THA/Mindardi
Team Asia) had an eventful race. Getting off to a blistering start, he
passed several cars before launching an unsuccessful attack on Bennani:
“If there’s an easy road or a hard road, I’ll always choose the latter
- ever since I was a kid,” he said of his decision not to sit tight for
points, but to challenge the Rookie Cup champion. “I outdid myself and
went off!”
Local drivers didn’t fare well after You, Ken Lee Kook
Hyun (KOR/Team E-Rain), and Dado Pena (PHI/Minardi Team Asia) were all
involved in an altercation on lap 15. Although all three failed to finish,
You fought bravely on until the damage he’d sustained put an end to his
valiant attempts to cross the finish line in the final race of the season in
front of his home crowd.
Lee finished the season on 250 points, followed by BMW
Junior driver, 24-year-old You Kyong-Ouk and Rookie Cup winner Mehdi Bennani
(MOR/ Team Meritus), both on 124 points.
Behind Bennani in the Rookie classification was Boughey
on 160, with Al Fardan just three points adrift on 157, and Izani on 152.
At the championship prize-giving ceremony, 2004 champion
Lee was delighted to receive an extra prize in recognition of his
extraordinary achievements - a three-day test with the Team Rosberg Formula
3 outfit.
Even as the teams, drivers and organisers celebrated the
end of a second highly successful Formula BMW Asia season, preparations were
already well advanced for next year. Once again, four BMW scholarships are
on offer to Asia’s most talented youngsters, each including a cash
contribution of U.S.50,000 dollars and the year-long education &
coaching programme. (Motorsport Asia)
AFC Shrewsbury Set Early Pace
MBMG Bangkok Casuals League - Week 2
In recent years the MBMG ‘No Claims Bonus’ Casuals
League has been dominated by one team; The Dubliner. As champions three
times running and a squad larger than the population of some East European
countries, they were also trying, by deed poll, for the addition of the word
‘Mighty’ to their name. And to ensure proper recognition of their
dominance they also installed their own man to script the weekly results
round-ups for the newspapers, which often failed to mention any teams that
didn’t have the words ‘Dubliner’ and ‘The’ in their title. Much
like the Manchester United dominated Premiership of the 90s, it was surely
time for a change.
And following last week’s results, one could sense that
change starting to take place; a disappointing Dubliner losing their opener
at Pattaya and finding themselves near the foot of the table. So it was with
some disappointment that many fans read yet another weekly round-up centred
around the exploits of the boys in white.
Well this week, something different is promised - a more
balanced, neutral and objective report where a sense of fair play is seen as
more important than the massaging of egos. Yes, this was the week that the
mighty, nay, Mighty AFC Shrewsbury strode imperiously to the top of the
table with a performance that can only be described as astonishing! This
team of ‘public school toffs’ from the gentile banks of the Chao Phraya
river (phone 02-675-1889 and quote this article for a 5% reduction in fees
for your child at one of the capital’s premier educational establishments)
truly announced themselves to Bangkok’s sporting elite with a thumping 1 -
0 victory over a stunned Bulls Head Brazilians team (many punter’s tip for
the title this year). Canadian unknown, Sheldon Smith (how long before The
Londoner come in with a big money offer for this man?), used his substantial
chest hairs to force home the winner mid-way through a tempestuous match
that saw four bookings and lots of shouting. The victory made it two out of
two for the boys in lurid green whose blend of youth, experience, bad
tempers and blatant cheating is winning them followers across the City
Elsewhere, much-hyped and heavily backed newcomers, The
Londoner, sent The Winking Frog hopping home with their (tadpole’s) tails
between their legs following an incredible 9-0 drubbing. The new look German
All Stars rolled over the boys from Blitz (team anthem: “We earn more than
you do”) 5 -3 to grab 2nd place, whilst an impressive Robin Hood robbed
the (probably) rich Japanese 1 - 0 to secure 3rd. Smoking filthy foreign
cigarettes has not stopped Les Gaulois from extending their unbeaten run to
19 games with a hard fought 3 -2 victory over RC Pattaya, whilst hardy
perennial under achievers Patana gained their first victory of the new
Millennium by beating British Club Casuals 3 - 2
Oh yes, The Dubliner, held on for a disappointing 1 - 1
with last year’s also-rans the Scandinavian Vikings.
Week 2 Results: Blitz FC 3 - 5 German All Stars, The
Dubliner 1 - 1 Scandinavian Vikings, British Club Casuals 2 - 3 Patana,
Racing Club Pattaya 2 - 3 Les Gaulois de Bangkok, The Winking Frog FC 0 - 9
Londoner FC, Bangkok United 0 - 1 Robin Hood FC, Bulls Head Brazilians 0 - 1
AFC Shrewsbury.
Wednesday Quiz League
Standings October 13
Sunday Quiz League
The Square Ring
Just as Audley “The Fraudly” Harrision was the
British star of the Olympics four years ago, Amir Khan comes out of the
Athens Olympics the one British star. The next question is what does he do
with the star power he’s generated and all it has to offer? There’s an
offer on the table from the ABA (British Amateur Association) to stay
amateur for a shot at the gold in four years in China. The Belfast Times
reports that he’ll cut that time in half and turn pro after the
Commonwealth Games. Frank “The Sleaze” Warren has offered him a contract
to turn pro. Young Mr. Khan has received some encouragement from former
Olympic Star and all around good guy George Foreman.
“He got a silver medal, probably should have had gold.
He’s going to be famous, but he’s not going to get any more famous than
he was in Athens. Once you reach the top you can only go down, but you
should go down at a price. Don’t stay around as an amateur. You’ve got
to say to other people: `Help me out’.” Foreman spoke of his own Olympic
experience. “Winning the gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics was
the greatest thrill in my career. It was the first time in my life that I
had a dream come true. I wore that gold medal until all the gold came off.
It was the best feeling I ever had in boxing.”
What’s George up to now? “ At 55 I’m ready to box
again. I think I’m stupid, man, but people always say you’ve got to be
crazy to get into the ring. That saying is literal. But I’m succeeding. I
want to say at the end of this `I came, I saw, I conquered.’” January 10
Foreman gets back in the ring with today’s “crap” of heavyweights
he’s got to be in the top 10 the day he steps in the gym.
Tuning up for his fight against Noriyuki Komatsu of Japan
WBC Fly champ Flyweight Pongsaklek Wonjongkam won a “sleep inducing”
contest against Randy Mangubat at Patong Boxing Stadium. This was either the
highlight or low light of the recently concluded WBC Convention. Now that
we’ve taken care of the local angle there are some darn good scraps going
on in Old Europe. Not to be confused with New Europe. Tonight at The Royal
Highland Showground in Edinburgh Joe Calzaghe (37-0) defends his WBO Super
Middle Weight title for the 15th time. Calzaghe has talked about traveling
overseas to face possibility Bernard Hopkins or some other North American
fighter. Probably isn’t going to happen but there’s always the chance.
How good is opponent Kabary Salem (23-3)? Hard to tell off the record. Salem
lost to Eric Harding (27-3) and Antwun Echols (30-5) who are in the top 20
of the world. His last out was a loss to Mario Veit (42-1) who makes his
living by fighting in Germany against selected opponents. Calzaghe should
have little problem.
On Sunday in Berlin at the Tempodrom Arena Vivian Harris
(24-1-1) gives Oktay Urkal (34-2) a rematch for his WBA Light Weight title.
The two mixed it up in April at the Max Schmeling Halle with Harris escaping
with a majority decision (114-112, 114-112, 113-113). Escaping is the
crucial word in the last sentence. In the 8th round South African Referee
Stanley Christodoulou penalized Harris one point for a “low blow”. No
deduction and it’s a blow out on the scorecards. It was Urkal’s second
loss on a record that was build mainly beating “opponents”. The first
lose came in a trip to the USA when Urkel lost a UD to Kostya Tszyu.
Harris’s only problem may be fighting in the other guys house. Strange
things happen and it is close to Halloween.
The same day in Sheffield Clinton Woods (35-3-1) keeps
busy when he meets Jason DeLisle (15-2-2) in a holding pattern fight. Woods
is in a holding pattern hoping for a third fight with Glencoffe Johnson the
most recent conqueror of Roy Jones Jr. Woods won the first meeting (highly
suspect) then lost the second. Woods may believe that the third time could
be the charm.
On Tuesday next, that would be the 26th, in Nakhon Phanom
two world class fighters share top billing in what could be an interesting
fight card. Denkaosan Kaovichit (26-1) is as good as his record indicates.
His lone loss came at the hands of former WBA Flyweight champion Eric Morel
(31-1) at the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California USA. His opponent Marcos
Obregon (16-10-3) is in really deep water. Saohin Condo (43-11) is actually
better than his record shows. He started his career 9-7 then found a second
life going 34-4. His one big chance at a “real” world title came in 1999
when he challenged Paulie Ayala for the Bantam title. Lost in a unanimous
decision. Saohin should have no problem with Marcel Kasimov (10-7). Rounding
out the headliners is Bantamweight Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym (18-0). He pits
his undefeated record on the line against Philippine invader Rolly Lunas
(16-3). Lunas has little luck in the Land of Smiles going 0-3 in his last 6.
I’ll bet there are those out there who will say, “Howie doesn’t even
know where Nakhon Phanom is?” Wrong again buckwheat. Nakhon Phanom is an
upper northeastern region province of Thailand. The province inherited the
Kotraboon Empire, which was situated on the Mekong. So there!
On of the really quality fighters has decided to hang ‘em up. WBA
bantamweight champion Johnny Bredahl has decided to end his career because
of returning hand-injuries. Bredahl had a November 12 date to defend against
Julio Zarate but his hands told him to quit. Throughout his career Bredahl
was the consummate professional. He knew how to box and how to get the most
out of his skills. His loss’s to Paulie Ayala (highly disputed) and “the
Pocket Rocket” Wayne McCullough highlighted his one flaw. The lack of
power! “However I also feel relieved to know that this is the end of
boxing for me.” Johnny Bredahl. He says “no mas” with a record of
55-2. Not too Chablis. I’ll drink with that.
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