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Paradorn and Tammy lose exhibition matches
Paradorn Super Tour 2004 visits Royal Cliff Beach Resort
Pattaya Mail Reporters
The Paradorn Tour Super 2004 kicked off in Pattaya at the
Royal Cliff Beach Resort last Thursday evening. The well attended event, now
in its third year, saw Asia’s number one Paradorn Srichaphan play
long-time friend, Germany’s Nicolas Kiefer, and Tamarine Tanasugarn play
rising Russian star, 17-year-old, Anna Chakvetadze.
 In
the first exhibition match, Srichaphan and Kiefer at first appeared evenly
matched, but Kiefer soon took control of the court. The two tennis stars
played a hard but comfortable round of tennis, even providing some antics,
bringing smiles to those watching the game.
Nicolas Kiefer is currently ranked World #21 and Paradorn
#27; both have had long careers playing most of the international
tournaments. Both are millionaires, having accumulated over US$ 4.9 million
and US$ 2.4 million in prize money respectively.
 Paradorn
Srichaphan serves in the opening set against Nicolas Kiefer during the
Paradorn Super Tour 2004 at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort, Thursday November
25. The tour was aimed at furthering the sport in Thailand.
The first set ended 6:6, requiring a tiebreaker. Kiefer,
who won a silver medal in the doubles at the Olympic Games in Athens,
prevailed in the tiebreak, winning 7:4.
 World
ranked #20, Nicolas Kiefer returns the ball during the Paradorn Super Tour
2004. Kiefer won the match 7:6 (7-4) and 6:3 against Thailand’s tennis
idol, Paradorn Srichaphan.
In the second set Kiefer warmed to the game and quickly
led, breaking Srichaphan’s serve. The fun aspect of the first set carried
over into the second set, as Kiefer interacted with the spectators and
Paradorn enjoyed the banter as well. Kiefer, however, seemed to handle the
atmosphere a little better, and managed to win the second set 6:3 against
Thailand’s tennis idol.
 At
the close of the post match press conference, both Tamarine and Paradorn
remained to autograph origami cranes as part of the peace effort for the
country’s troubled south.
In the second match of the evening, Tamarine Tanasugarn,
Thailand’s number one woman tennis player, squared off against the
recently turned pro, 17-year-old Russian Anna Chakvetadze.
Karolina Sprem, who was scheduled to play, was forced to
cancel due to illness.
The ladies, although still having lots of fun, seemed to
play with a bit more intensity than the men. Tammy (World #66) took an early
2:0 lead in the first set, then seemed to relax. However, Anna came back
strong and won the first set 6:3.
‘Tammy’
Tanasugarn, Thailand’s #1 women’s player serves against the new Russian
addition to the pro tennis circuit, Anna Chakvetadze. Tamarine said she
needed to find her form again after taking a few weeks off.
In the second set, youth, fitness and enthusiasm took
over, and Chakvetadze, currently ranked 83 in the world, clearly dominated.
She won the second set 6:2.
During the post match press conference back at the hotel,
Paradorn and Nicolas both said they felt they played well.
“We played seriously but not as if it was a real
competition. We play all year round for ourselves, and today’s exhibition
match was to give something back to the crowd,” said Paradorn.
Nicolas Kiefer revealed that it was his first time in
Pattaya, and said he was looking forward to coming back after completing the
tour in Phuket.
Tamarine and Anna, also happy to play in Pattaya, said
that they had enjoyed their time here. As for her loss to Anna, Tammy said,
“I haven’t played for a few weeks and really need to get back into form.
I think Anna has great potential and she will be one to watch over the
coming years.”
Seventeen
year old Russian, Anna Chakvetadze said she would like to improve her
forehand. It was however, good enough to win 3:6, 6:2 against Thailand’s
Tamarine Tanasugarn in the exhibition match at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort
Thursday evening.
Both Paradorn and Tammy said they felt as if they were
coming home when playing on the courts at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort,
saying that they had played in juniors tournaments here over 10 years ago.
At the close of the conference, both Tamarine and
Paradorn remained to autograph origami cranes as part of the peace effort
for the country’s troubled south.
The following day the four players put on a tennis clinic for Pattaya
tennis enthusiasts before flying off to Phuket to complete the Paradorn
Super Tour 2004, aimed at increasing the profile of tennis around Thailand.
Pat Ryan and Moira Ledingham - Irish Open Champions 2004
Mike Franklin
Ireland and Scotland claimed the honors in Shenanigans
2004 Men’s & Ladies Irish Open Championships on Friday November 26th
at Eastern Star
The irrepressible Pat Ryan from Tipperary Ireland made
his mark again, this time in Shenanigans Irish Open Championships. Clear
of the field by four Stableford points, he shot a gross 75 off his11
handicap to score 44 points and take the title outright. He nearly took
the Division I Low Gross trophy as well, but Graham Rudd also with 75
gross won a ‘back 12’ count-back to claim that trophy, as well as the
Division I Winners’ trophy with 39 Stableford points. It will probably
be another ticker-tape welcome when Pat and his sixteen strong group from
Ireland return to Tipperary, having won the Shenanigans Funhill Cup
back-to-back with Pairs Scramble partner, Chris Humphries, in 2003 and
2004. They promise to be back in 2005 to try for a third time!
 Patrick
Horsting, 10, with a TGA 21 handicap beat Richard Wardell on countback to
win Division II.
Celebrations too in Bang Chang and at Eastern Star
where Moira Ledingham beat the Ladies field to take the Ladies Irish Open
Championship trophy. Moira, playing off a 26 handicap in Ladies Division
II, played her ‘best ever’ with a gross 94 and 40 Stableford points.
So, Ireland and Scotland worthy winners on a fine day,
and on an Eastern Star golf course looking absolutely its best. The strong
wind may have troubled some, judging by the scores, but Pat Ryan
attributes his success to the excellent fairways and lies deserving good
shots. However, he is known to be a pretty good golfer too, and usually
finds form when visiting Thailand.
 Pat
Ryan from Tipperary, Ireland made his mark yet again, winning the
Shenanigans Irish Open Championships. He shot a gross 75 off his 11
handicap to score 44 points and take the title outright.
The Division results are listed below. Ladies Winners
were Kim Harbeck and Pid Ovegren in Divisions I & II respectively. For
the men, David Booten Division III; Patrick Horsting, Division II
(count-back with Richard Wardell), and Graham Rudd Division I. (Note:
Patrick Horsting is a Junior, aged ten, with a TGA 21 handicap playing
from the white tees).
The technical prizes were sponsored by Guinness:
For the Ladies, Near Pins went to Usa Chaiyosit, Chaba
Carney (2), Nora Haugsjordet, Tai Kennedy, Kim Harbeck and Moira Ledingham.
For the Men, Bob Munro (2), Chris Humphries, Matt Millar, David Booten,
Graham Rudd, Pat Ryan, Arthur Hancock and Kevin Ganzevoort. Men’s
Longest Drives came from Mikael Andersson, Glenn Tyler and Billy Cameron
in Divisions I, II & III respectively. Thea de Korte had the longest
drive for the ladies in Division II. Whilst Division I was void, as the
marker insisted on marking the Lady Teaching Pro’s 268 yard drive when
she was only playing along for fun. The Longest First Putts were open to
all divisions and were claimed by Mam Trayling, Alistair Waugh, Chaba
Carney and David Kinsella.
 Nora
Haugsjordet won the women’s Division I and low gross with 90 off the
stick.
Wanida Reed was nominated the Best Dressed Lady, Jim
Ryan had the lowest, yet quietly respectable, score of the day, Ron
Coulson made the Shortest Drive on Hole #10, and Tony Stevens won the
Heineken Keg.
Back at Shenanigans, the prize giving began a little
earlier than planned due to the Loy Krathong festivities. Somewhat
boisterous at times, the proceedings started with the technical prizes,
followed by the presentations of trophies to the Division winners, and
finally the Lucky Draw of prizes kindly sponsored by Heineken. Due credits
were given to the Shenanigans team on station throughout the day, helping
all round, at registration and importantly serving Chef Sunny’s
Breakfast Pie, Curry Puffs, Sausage Rolls, water and cold Heineken.
To Eastern Star GM Saradej and his team who made every
effort to support the planning and organization of the event to ensure the
day ran smoothly.
Finally to Wayne Ognoski with his laptop computer and
Tony Stevens with the scorecards. So, with everyone sustained with
Shenanigans delicious Carvery, and the winners photographs taken, it was
officially over by shortly after 8 p.m. and time to float Krathongs on the
sea or at a suitable oasis nearby.
Shenanigans is next out for a Pairs Scramble at the Navy Course (S
& E) on Wednesday December 8, and the year wraps with Shenanigans
‘Santa Scramble’ at Eastern Star on Wednesday December 22. The Santa
Scramble is just 300 baht entry and includes a free Irish coffee, a Santa
souvenir and many festive prizes. Children will be most welcome at the
prize-giving to meet Santa Claus and enjoy free Coca Cola and ice cream.
Sign up early in pairs please at Shenanigans.
Pattaya Jet Festival 2004 speed freaks delight
Water sport competition packs in the crowds at Jomtien Beach
Suchada Tupchai
Jomtien Beach was the place to be for those who enjoy the
fast past pace action of jet skis and powerboats over the November 21-21
weekend. Jet ski enthusiasts from around country and abroad joined in the
competition.
 Japanese
Jet ski champion Izumi showed off his acrobatic skills on the water.
Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn rode onto the beach to
kick-start the event saying that it was part of the city’s efforts to
bolster sports and tourism in the city. “It is our goal to foster world
class sporting events in Pattaya and increase the profile of Thai athletes
in the world arena,” said Niran.
 The
two competitions included races from the Pro-Am Runabout, Pro-am Ski and
Stock classes from 650, 800 and 1,200 power groups as well as sport classes
in 50 and 85 cc groups.
The thrill built up on the beach as each round was held
drawing closer to the final on Sunday afternoon - the highlight being the
Jet Ski Pro 800 class with 8 laps of the challenging course laid out by the
organizers.
Powerboat races were also held, heating up the action on
the water much to the excitement of spectators.
With a weekend of racing completed and the prize giving over, organizers
lit up the skies over Jomtien with a fireworks display ending a fast and
furious weekend on the water.
Thai Bodybuilder
runner-up in Mr. Universe
Sitthi
Charoenrith
with his Mr Universe runner-up trophy.
Sitthi Charoenrith, a top Thai bodybuilder won 2nd
place in the Mr. Universe Bodybuilding Championships in Madrid, Spain on
November 27.
At the same contest, Sitthi was also awarded with the
certificate of” The Best Performer.”
From Thailand, Sitthi competed in the Men’s less
than 165cms height category, of which there were bodybuilders from the
total 22 countries competing. There were mostly from Europe and North
& South America.
Huay Yai Mountain Bike Championships 2004 - a roaring success
Thrills, chills and spills thrill crowd of spectators
Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Over 500 mountain bike enthusiasts from around the nation
converged in front of the Huay Yai municipality last Saturday to ride their
way to glory in the Huay Yai Mountain Bike Championships 2004. Riders were
vying for the coveted HSH Princess Somsawali Trophy and a share in the
50,000 baht plus prize pool.
Speed,
strategy and fitness was the major factor in riding a race this big.
The international field of riders competed in a number
distances and age group categories in the inaugural event aimed at boosting
tourism through sports.
Competitors comprised Group A Men’s/Women’s 40 km
ride; Group B Men’s/Women’s 27 km ride; Group C at 27 kms; The D and VIP
groups both in the 2 kilometer distance category - each group was further
separated into age classes.
In the A Group the overall winner was Chakraphan
Boontarnomm from the Bike Net team while in the women’s category Thanitpop
Prasertpon of the Pluakdaeng 2002 team took home first prize.
The men’s A Open Class was won by RTN Sub. Lt. Jettana
Charoensap and his counterpart in the women’s class was Jindamanee
Ponbunjerdkul. They received the HSG Princess Somsawali Trophy and cash for
their efforts, as did other winners in the various age groups.
The event was organized in cooperation with the Huay Yai municipality,
Numchai Company, the Mountain Biking Club for Health and Pattaya city. The
event aimed at boosting further awareness in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
through exercise with their first event proving a stunning success for the
region.
Scramble with Santa at Shenanigans
Mike Franklin
Shenanigans’ Landlord Kim Fletcher, seasonally
assisted by Shenanigans golf director Mike Franklin, have added festive
elements to the Pairs Scramble taking place on Wednesday December 22 at
Eastern Star Country Club & Resort.
The ‘Santa Scramble’, specially for Shenanigans Very
Friendly Golf Society members and friends, features some additional
technical prizes - four long putts and four near pins with men’s and
ladies long drives and a ‘Nearest the Heineken Keg’.
The winning Pair will receive A-La-Carte dinner for two
with wine at Shenanigans, together with the ‘Santa Superstars’ Trophy,
a cuddly Santa Trophy each and, courtesy of Pat Ryan the Irish Open
Champion, a valuable piece of Tipperary crystal.
The runners-up will receive Champagne, and third place
winners, bottles of Jameson.
An additional ‘Pairs’ prize will go to the best
Ladies Pair - most likely a Jug of Margaritas, and something nice for the
best Men’s and Mixed Pairs too.
Entry for all members and friends will be 300 baht and
that festively includes a free Irish coffee back at Shenanigans, 20%
discount on food & drink for the evening at the prizegiving and party.
Every player will also receive a personal ‘Christmas Good Wish’ Santa
souvenir. Santa Claus is expected to be at the party so do bring the
children to meet him and enjoy free Coca Cola and ice cream.
The ‘Santa Superstar’ winning pair will have
privileged access on the night, to the exclusive Superstars Table, which
usually props up the Landlord between his hospitable sorties around the
Pub.
This is a fun, extra friendly and very festive event to
wind up the years’ golf program, so sign-up early at Shenanigans In Pairs
Please, and do try to make up a four-ball. The field is limited to 100
players and we will tee-off at the earlier time of 8.34 a.m.
Entries only accepted with payment at Shenanigans.
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta - Ever Stronger
by Peter Cummins
This year’s Phuket King’s Cup Regatta will be sailed off
the southern island from 5 - 11 December and, according to President of the
Regatta Organizing Committee, Chris King, everything is in place for a week-long
sailing and social bonanza which will include everything, he said adding,
hopefully, especially the wind.
The Regatta was founded in 1987, by the then Royal Varuna
Yacht Club (RVYC) incumbent Flag Commodore Chris King, Dr Rachot Kanjanavanit,
Al Chandler, Adolph Knees and Mom Tri Devakul, inter al. Mom Tri placed the
resources of his then Phuket Yacht Club Hotel at Nai Harn Bay, securely behind
the Regatta, for the first 10 years thus guaranteeing its permanence.
Consistent
performer: “Hocux Pocux 2”, from Hong Kong.
Established to honour His Majesty on the occasion of his
fifth-cycle, 60th birthday on 5 December, 1987, it has been sailed every year
since that time, over the week in early December, which spans The King’s
Birthday, moving out from Nai Harn Bay up to the Kata beach Resort six years
ago. It has always been sailed under the direction of RVYC, with extensive
logistical help from both the Royal Thai Navy, and the authorization of the
Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, while the office of g of Phuket, the
Tourism Authority of Thailand and the local Phuket community, in both the public
and private sectors, have consistently rendered valuable support.
Now, for the first time, the Krung Thai bank has come aboard
as the principal sponsor with the Bank’s Executive Vice President, Assanee
Subvanich, pointing out at the recent press conference, that the Bank regarded
yacht racing and the healthy activities associated with such maritime events, a
panacea for many of the social ills befalling some Thai people, especially the
youngsters.
Ongoing sponsors and supporters include the Kata Group, which
has been the host regatta centre since 1998 when the King’s Cup moved up from
Nai Harn Bay. Mom Tri’s Boathouse, Sunsail, Raimon Land, Phuket Air, Binatone
Royal Phuket Marina, Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort and Spa, American Express and
Phuket Magazine are among the ongoing sponsors. Chang Beer is an enthusiastic
comparative newcomer and Kantanit Sukontasap (Tong) sees great possibilities in
Chang promotion of the event.
An early tradition established was that the incumbent
president of the regatta organizing committee was the then commodore of the
Royal Varuna Yacht Club, which holds the proprietary rights to the event. This
was maintained throughout almost all of the seventeen regattas thus far sailed:
Chris King (President, 1987, 1988. 1994, 1997, 2003, 2004), Peter Ole Herning
(l990, l991), Adolph-Antoni Knees (1989, 1995, 1996, 1998) and Nigel Hardy,
(1999, 2000, 2002).
Bill Gasson, not a Commodore but a staunch member of Royal
Varuna - and a four-time Regatta champion - was President through 1992 and 1993.
The only exception from a Royal Varuna Presidency of the event was the year
Phuket marine entrepreneur, Andy Dowden who took on the task in 2001.
The regatta began with a mixture of keelboats, catamarans,
Lasers and, even, wind-surfers, occasioning some “interesting”
confrontations. For example few who were there at the time, will ever forget
Varunian Reg Chambers, sailing his beloved Laser, calling “starboard” on a
45ft. keelboat (which gave way, of course).
Like any prominent yacht-racing event - and, most other
sports, too - the regatta has developed its own folklore. Like, Scott McCook,
who sailed his beach-launched catamaran up from Singapore, won all five races in
that regatta and then sailed back to Singapore. Or Anders Widen, who sailed solo
on his Top Cat into the very teeth of a north-easterly from Phuket to Koh Phi
Phi. Anders’ superb feat also was a vivid testimony to the great co-operation
from between the Royal Thai Navy, the Yacht racing Association of Thailand,
Royal Varuna and the Phuket provincial authorities when it was reported back to
the race management committee that there was possibly a “man over-board”
drama unfolding. But, it was fine. It was Anders sailing solo.
Over the past few sailings, the regatta has become solely a
“big boat” event, attracting keelboat and ocean-going catamaran teams from
around the world. As a principal fixture on the Asian Yachting Circuit, too, the
regatta annually features upwards of some 80 boats and 1,000 sailors, ranging
from the “Formula One of the Sea Lanes” - the Racing Class - to live-aboard
ocean cruisers, multi-hulls and Classics. International-standard race management
has been combined with lively beach parties most nights, to create a
world-renowned yacht racing event, Phuket’s own Race Week, to rival some of
the more traditional such gatherings as Cowes Week, the Caribbean and Australia.
Now, for the 18th...
The 18th Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is upon us, to be
sailed from the 5th through the 11th of December. Probably the creation of
the regatta has been one of the catalysts in Thailand’s now-burgeoning
marine sector, with the concomitant related activities and pursuits, greatly
accelerated by the virtual removal of the erstwhile punitive tax on the Thai
marine leisure industry. This great event, over almost two decades of its
sailing, exposes Phuket as a relatively undiscovered corner of world-class
yachting and cruising excellence, with warm, deep waters and a most
hospitable year-round ambient climate.
Regatta President Chris King is confident of a record -
or, near-record - participation this year with possible numbers of 100 plus,
in what Sunsail’s Simon James said will be 12 divisions, with much
interest focusing on the ‘Sports Boat’ category in which Platus from the
Ocean Marina in the Northern Gulf, will pit their skills and speed against
the hot new Phuket-built and based, the the Phuket Eight.
Designed by John Duncanson. Omega and the four-regatta
Asian Yachting Circuit will again feature prominently, with the resulting
world-wide television coverage featuring the beauty of Phuket and the
excitement of the Regatta itself, reaching into 400 million lounge rooms
world-wide through satellite and cable TV programmes. Furthermore, during
this year’s King’s Cup, there will be the second PIMEX - the (now)
annual Phuket International Marine Expo which, starting with just 57 booths
last year, is being expanded to 100 this time. According to the principal
organizers, it will not just be the vast increase of exhibition space that
will be a feature of this year. There will also be a seminar programme that
will give visitors and exhibitors the chance to listen to - and hold
discussions with - the top marine sector players and related Thai Government
agencies.
As PIMEX directors, Andy Dowden and Grenville Fordham
point out, “promotion for the second show will be targeted at leisure
visitors to improve the mix for all exhibitors”.
The Regatta opens on the evening of the fifth of December, HM the
King’s 77th birthday and host venue the Kata Beach Resort, will hold the
moving and colourful candlelight tribute to the Regatta Royal patron,
beachside at Kata. The Regatta will continue everyday during the week
(Thursday will be the ‘lay day’) up to Saturday, when the splendid
awards ceremony and farewell dinner will be presided over by HM the King’s
Personal Representative Rear Admiral M.L. Usni Pramoj - himself a regatta
veteran, attending his 16th in his capacity representing His Majesty.
Jim wins at Sriracha
PSC golf with The Bunker
On Monday
November 22, The Boys from The Bunker went to play a Medal round at
Sriracha Golf Course. Unfortunately because of a lack of electricity, the
Sriracha staff could not charge their golf carts during the night so there
were no carts to be had!
 Jim
Payne putting his way to victory at Sriracha.
This persuaded some of the elderly and less fit
golfers to play their golf elsewhere but the remainder stayed and
played the competition. The course was very dry due to the lack of
watering, the greens far too fast and most Bunker golfers felt the
course condition did not merit the price Sriracha were charging.
However, Jim Payne overcame all of these obstacles to shoot a level
Net par round of 72 to take first prize, Lez Hall was second with
Net 73 followed closely home by John King with a Net 76. Near pin
prizes were taken by Jim Payne and John King.
Khao Kheow
Country Club
Wednesday November 24 saw Khao Kheow host The Bunker Boys
Stableford competition. A and B courses were played and the field was divided
into two flights and on the notoriously difficult course John Hughes came home
in third place with 28 Stableford points in flight A, Mick Ramshaw grabbed
second place with 32 points but it wasn’t enough to overcome the winner Brian
Bellis who scored a splendid 35 points to walk away with first prize.
In flight B pensioner “Steady” George Redgewell returned
the best score of the day a level par 36 points to claim top spot, second came
Duncan McGee with 31 points and Brian Wilkins came third with 29 points. Near
Pins prizes were won by Brian Bellis (2) and Lez Hall. The “Golfer of The
Month” competition for November is coming to a close and it looks like the
winner of the trophy will be decided in the final match of the month on Monday
November 29 at Eastern Star Golf Club. It still looks like a two horse race
between John Hughes and Lez Hall - watch this space to find out next week!
The Bunker Boy’s now play on Monday’s and Wednesday’s so call into The
Bunker Bar on Soi Chaiyapoon (near X-zyte disco) to pick up a golf schedule or
consult the Pattaya Mail every week and, as usual you can get the latest
information about all other sporting activities at The Bunker Bar by visiting
our website @ www. bunkerboysgolf.com
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday November 22
Sriracha International Golf Club Stableford
The Sriracha Golf Club was host to a stableford
competition in two Flights. A Flight, 0 to 16, and B Flight, 17 upwards. The
course on the day was in good condition, but very dry, due to the fact that
the only electricity is an emergency generator sitting by the clubhouse
entrance. Golf carts were also not available due to a lack of electricity.
 Turkey
Day runners up, Ian Ashenden, Jim Muns, John Emerson and Poo Supaporn with
Dave.
Gary Wedl took the A Flight with 36 points, and we then
had a three way countback for the minor places on 35 points. Second was
Clive Robinson, third was Yasuo Suzuki and fourth was Brian McDonald.
Bjorn Kristjohansson won the B Flight handily with 37
points, but as in the A Flight, we had a countback just to give Dave
something to do. In second with 34 points was Dave Richardson ahead of Bob
Rasmussen in third, with Pat Browne in fourth and Jim Thompson just losing
out.
The Team
of Terry Phur, Bob Phillip, Bob Weighton and Dan Rand came in at third with
a 55.2 score for the day.
Near Pins #3 Yasuo Sazuki, #8 Pat Browne, #12 Don
Richardson and #17 Tony Scambler,
Long Putts: #9 Peter Habgood and #18 Ebrahim
Thursday November 25
Pattaya Country Club
Ray Rogers
Thanksgiving Day Scramble
An Annual event, you only have to look at the PSC
calendar to see this day planned in for November every year. For many years
this event was based on Rays house, where Ray laid on the food and the after
golf function, however Father Time waits for no man, so we now go back to
the Cafe Kronberg, where our hosts look after us Regally. However, we all
remember the many years when Ray made this day into his own.
 What’s
Thanksgiving without plenty food on for the hungry?
On the day 21 teams, off the 1st and 10th tees, set off
to take the course apart in 4 man scramble format, a total of 84 players.
This does lead to some very low scores, particularly, as on this day, when
the course was in fine condition and the greens fast, very, and true. The
only worry was a strong wind, however with 4 drives this became a minor
problem.
As the day progressed it became apparent the scores would
be very low and as Dave sat in the Restaurant at the golf course, it soon
became apparent you would have to shoot in the low 50’s to be in at the
shake up.
Back at the Cafe Kronborg as the crowd built up, the
smells of the food put an edge to the appetite, until the normal food rush
became a stampede. Golf, and fresh air, do tend to make you hungry. Once
again my compliments to Jimmy Flanagan, who always compliments the host with
his attention to their food, and why not!
Once the food was over, Dave got down to the important
items of the day, presenting the results. In third place with a fine 55.2
was the Team of Terry Phur, Bob Phillip, Bob Weighton and Dan Rand.
In second place with a very fine 54.4, was the team of
Local Teaching Pro, Ian Ashenden, with Jim Muns, John Emerson and Poo
Supaporn.
However, the winners with a stupendous 53.9 was the team
of the self professed ‘Superman’, Mike Dige, with Hans Collett, Dan
Shame and Magnus Johansson. Mention must be made of the fact that with a
handicap of 3.1, they had to play 15 under gross to shoot such a score. Just
think about it.
So with the presentation over and a full tummy, the
golfers gradually dispersed into the night, until next time. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: #5 Brendan Kelly, #7 Pekka Reha, #12 John
Knight and #14 Geoff Couch.
Long Putts: #9 Jim Flanaghan and #18 Sean Murray
Dick Kerr wins bragging rights
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
On Monday a new winner emerged from the mist. Dick Kerr,
who I believe came in from Washington State, (wet and foggy) went through
the field like a dose of salts. It was the best game he has shot here in
Thailand, which was good enough to win the bragging rights for the day. Dick
came in with 42 points to beat the nearest competitor by two points. It was
again a good day for golfing as the weather held up and the course in better
shape than usual.
Holding down second place with 40 points was Paul Kinner.
Paul has seen both ends of the spectrum - winner and cellar. Today he shot
an excellent score but was beaten out by Dick. In third position was Herb
Ishinaga with 39 points. He had a terrific front nine shooting 22 points but
collapsed on the back to end up with 39 points. Dennis Willett also shot an
excellent front nine but could not keep up the pace on the back.
Falling into the cellar again was ‘Ole Jim Tully’. Jim managed to
stay out of the cellar position for a few weeks but fell into it again with
21 points. His next nearest competitor was Charlie Devlin. It was one of
Charlie’s worst games as he is normally near the top. On Monday he managed
25 points to stay out of the cellar as Jim slid past. I’m sure that
Charlie will be heading back up next week to contend for the top position.
Mr. Ashenden’s 68 provides a playing lesson
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s
Sunday Nov. 21
Green Valley
Stroke/Medal
1st A Flight: Gary Blackburne, net 68
2nd A Flight: Martin Todd, net 71
3rd A Flight: Brian Holden, net 71
1st B Flight: Colm Mullen, net 69
2nd B Flight: Terry Phur, net 69
3rd B Flight: Joe Whelan, net 74
1st C Flight: Graham Buckingham, net 68
2nd C Flight: Eddy Beilby, net 68
3rd C Flight: Paul Shaw, net 71
Near Pins: #13 Ian Ashenden; #16 Peter Emslie
Heading back to balmy, old England for the holidays, Gary
Blackburne knew that he better grab some more Sterling if he was going to
fill all the relatives’ socks. He did so in style grabbing co-best on the
day, with a net 68, to take the top spot in A Flight. Martin Todd (same,
same as the US Tennis Player, except not same) edged globetrotter Brian
Holden on second level count back to sort out the silver and bronze in the
accomplished Flight.
Colm Mullen, himself returning to Erin’s shores for
Boxing Day, went to the math table with Terry Phur and walked away with the
top prize. Those gentlemen left third place to golf gadabout Joe Whelan.
Irish Joe, along with his ‘Dirty Dozen’ pals have played the world’s
best courses with the world’s finest golfers. His continued visits to
Pattaya further certify the quality of golf on the Eastern Seaboard.
This article intimated initially that the day’s best
score, 68, was shot by more that one player on the day, and, in fact, two C
Flight players matched that feat. The dreaded C/B declared Graham
Buckingham’s 68 to be more favorably dispersed then Eddy Beilby’s. Paul
Shaw tidied up the upper Flight with a net one under par 71.
Monday Nov. 22
Green Valley
Stroke/Medal
1st A Flight: Brian Holden, net 67
2nd A Flight:Claus Birk Thomsen, net 68
3rd A Flight: Ian Ashenden, net 68
1st B Flight: Jim Munns, net 72
2nd B Flight: Brian Dunbar, net 73
3rd B Flight: Bob Lindborg, net 73
1st C Flight: Roger Koehler, net 67
2nd C Flight: Peter Ingham, net 69
3rd C Flight: Ken Kutzing, net 72
Near Pins: #5 Rick Sharp; #8 Roger Koehler
As so often happens, a fellow abused by count back one
day often strikes back quickly to rectify the earlier injustice and so was
the case with Brian Holden as he avenged a count back loss of 2nd on Sunday
with a sparkling net 67 on Monday. The count back gods were not to be
ignored and seldom has their scythe been more brutal than it was this day to
our title character. Just two weeks ago this scribe sang the praises of the
watershed round by Woody Sherwood. It was not expected that such a feat
would be duplicated soon but there was resident teaching pro Ian Ashenden
spinning the front in gross 35. With whip in hand he brought his horse home
in 33 for the Society’s second stunning gross 68 of the month. But alas,
that gross 33, unaided by handicap, as Ian plays off zero, on the inward
nine was not enough to withstand the net score of Claus Birk Thomsen who
edged Ian with an inward net 32. Kudos to Claus, standing “O” for Ian.
Despite all the commotion in A Flight, C Flight put its
bid in for recognition as Roger Koehler matched Brian Holden’s best on the
day net 67 in taking the top podium position. Peter Ingham joined a host of
members returning to colder confines to celebrated the holidays with a
little extra in their pocket as he edged K4 (yes, Konsistently Kolourful
Kenny Kenzing or is it Kolour Koordinated Kenny Kutzing) for the penultimate
step in the lower Division.
The middle group of handicappers, 15 to 18, was
relatively middling on the day and there was some discussion that the
ethereal nature of their winner, Capt. Fogg, someway contributed to that.
But lest it be lost in the ribbing, Jimmy Munns continues to compete
favorably and continues to improve his handicap. Just one astray of the good
Capt. were Brian Dunbar and Bob Lindborg. Brian made the social faux pas of
taking the new IPGC Handicap chairman to count back task. Don’t be
surprised to see Brian’s handicap take an unexplained drop.
Sunday &Monday - Nov.
21 - 22
Green Valley
Eclectic - Stroke/
1st A Flight: Klaus Schackt, net 61
2nd A Flight: Rick Sharp, net 62
1st B Flight: Colm Mullen, net 64
2nd B Flight: Claus Birk Thomsen, net 64
1st C Flight: Ken Kutzing, net 59
2nd C Flight: Eddy Beilby, net 61
If it escaped notice, and little does escape the notice
of the eagle-like eye of this column’s readership, the society followed up
its traditional Sunday competition at Green Valley with a second round on
the same venue on Monday. In a continued effort to provide its membership
with variety, the society held a two-day eclectic as an overlay to the two
daily competitions. For those unfamiliar with the format, an eclectic
gathers the best net score on each given hole over the course of the
competition, in this case, two days, and calculates an eighteen hole score.
Although the administration required to gather the individual scores is a
bit weighty, it invariably produces results that are intriguing to analyze.
Kenny Kutzing was not on the individual day podium on
Sunday and certainly his net 72 on Monday would not suggest that a
decantation of his best hole scores would yield an eclectic best net 59! He
must have played nine good holes on Sunday and the other nine well on
Monday, with disasters everywhere else. Naturally because it was an
eclectic, K4’s feat will join Phil Mickelson’s 59 of this week as
unrecorded equals of the Geiberger-Duval-Beck-Sorenstam phenomena. Eddy
Beilby threw a beauty at it with a 61 but could only take second in C
Flight.
B Flight’s podium had two strong daily prize winners in
Colm Mullen and Claus Birk Thomsen but they only improved 5 and 4 strokes,
respectively, on the second day. Colm’s better improvement positioned him
to prevail on count back, which is done in traditional fashion, to-wit,
better last nine on Monday.
In the most curious of outcomes, neither A Flight podium
ascendant had a daily prize! The ‘Volkscomputer’ knocked down the
triples of Sunday and The Hermit took a big whack when he tidied up the
Sabbath’s par 3 score of ten, to take the loot with net 61 and 62,
respectively. The society will host another eclectic running from 2004 to
2005 (December 31, 2004 and January 2, 2005).
Wednesday Nov. 24
Khao Kheow - B & C - Yellow or
White Tees
Stableford
1st Yellow Flight: Phil Groves, 42 pts
2nd Yellow Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 37 pts
3rd Yellow Flight: Gary Blackburne, 35 pts
1st White Flight: Peter Ingham, 37 pts
2nd White Flight: John Knight, 36 pts
3rd White Flight: Paul Walia, 36 pts
Near Pins: #B8 Paul Walia; #C8 Phil Groves
There is a considerable body of competitors who assert
that Khao Kheow off the yellow tees is so difficult that it almost breaks
one spirit. Well it wasn’t the course that broke the Yellow Flight’s
spirit, it was Phil Groves’ exemplary 42 points off a barely forgiving 8
handicap. Certainly one of the noteworthy rounds of the year! Joe “I’m
in The” Mooneyham took on the beast and bettered his handicap. Gary
Blackburne put his hand in the cookie jar one last time in 2004.
Peter Ingham, OBE, made his second to last round a
statement as he took the more mortal White Flight. John Knight showed he was
up to it by taking the silver and Paul Walia combined a little third place
loot with a Near Pin prize to pay the day’s rent.
Friday Nov. 26
Pattana S.C. -White or Yellow Tees
Stableford
1st White Flight: Simon Philbrook, 37 pts
2nd White Flight: Joe Sebastian, 37 pts
3rd White Flight: Mark Joshua, 34 pts
4th White Flight: Timo Tirkkonan, 34 pts
1st Yellow Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 38 pts
The society bid a fond adieu to the area’s newest golf
offering, Pattana Sports Club, as the potentially superb venue ups its price
beyond the preference of the society membership. Big Simon Philbrook, who
took the requisite couple of weeks to align his play with his miniscule
handicap of 4, put his imprimatur on the day with a count back winning 37
points over the Society’s old friend Joe “Peppermint” Sebastian, as a
vast majority of the field chose to take on the course in its long
configuration. Joe who has not played as often in recent months showed that
the potential is there, and attainable, as he was one below level on this
par 73 layout. A count back crush absorbed the balance of those that braved
the 6,826 yard White Tees. Mark Joshua emerged atop, with Tomi Tirkonen in
the uncommon fourth place pay station getting little help from his 4.0
handicap. The violins played for new member Ron Claridge and old-timer Capt.
Fogg, as they both found themselves out in the count back cold.
Joe Mooneyham, after successfully taking on the back tees
of Khao Kheow a day earlier, led a small but quality group who found the
6,455 yard white tees to be plenty testing enough.
Four way tie for first place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Domicil dropped into a tie for first after splitting their
match with VFW Post 9876 at two points each. House of the Golden Coin took
three points from Jack & Tar. Friends captured three points from Cafe
Ole. Brother D nabbed three points from Shenanigans. Cafe Kronborg moved up
the standings after taking all four points from Q Cars. Mai’s Thai
Restaurant won three points from Three Sisters.
200
Bowlers - Morn, Gert, Ooy, Jeed, Mio and Konrad.
Best bowlers of the day:
Gert, Q Cars - 211 game, 564 series
P.K., Q Cars - 506 series
Sven, Cafe Kronborg - 539 series
Kran, Cafe Kronborg - 554 series
Jeed, Shenanigans - 209 game, 528 series
Konrad, Brother D - 216 game, 525 series
Teuvo, Friends - 548 series
Wade, Mai’s Thai Restaurant - 536 series
Morn, Three Sisters - 204 game, 504 series
Mio, House of the Golden Coin - 213 & 201 games, 560
series
Ooy, House of the Golden Coin - 205 game, 528 series
Mai, Jack & Tar - 512 series
Knutson & Andersson best of the day
Mike Franklin
The wind took its toll with the Stableford scores in
Shenanigans Pairs Combined Stableford competition at Eastern Star on
Wednesday November24, in the run up to the Irish Open Championships on
Friday 26.
 Robert
Knutson (left), Mike Franklin (center) and Mikael Andersson (right) back
at Shenanigans after windy day out at Eastern Star in the run up to the
Irish open.
Best of the day came from Robert Knutson and Mikael
Andersson with a combined 61 Stableford points. Larry Willett and Carl
Bauman were close behind with 59 points and hot on their heels were Kim
Fletcher and Bill Johnstone with 58 points. Best individual score was
returned by Kim Fletcher with a ‘handicap threatening’ 36 points.
There were just four technicals out, sponsored as usual
by Guinness. Near pins were claimed by Mikael Andersson on #6 and Kim
Fletcher on #17. Long putts went to Bill Johnstone and Len Dingemans on #9
and #18 respectively.
Conditions all round were excellent, apart from the
strong wind that really does toughen up the course at Eastern Star.
Back at Shenanigans it was another huge Steak Night. It
was nice to see Len Dingemans back, and newcomer David Pattison was duly
welcomed.
After the Guinness merchandise was awarded to the
technical prizewinners, it was time for the Winner & Runner-up place
prizes. Some confusion arose, due to the noticeable absence of runners-up
Larry and Carl. However, the moment was quickly seized by the Fletcher-Johnstone
duo who raced to the prize table to take the prize. Bill Johnstone
thankful he still had the key to his trophy cabinet out on the chain
(souvenir from E Block) to add to yet another long putt success. Larry
& Carl may, of course, have the final word.
The next routine outing is on Wednesday December 8th at
Plutaluang (S & E) for a Pairs Scramble - the sign-up sheet is on the
board.
The Shenanigans Golf year concludes with the ‘Santa Scramble’ at
Eastern Star on Wednesday December 22. Full details on the notice board at
Shenanigans and in Pattaya Mail. This is definitely a ‘sign-up early’
event.
Top Flight,
Top Score for
Brian Bellis
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
On Thursday, November 25, two dozen golfers left the OK Corral and took
the ever-improving route 331 to distant Noble Place to play their weekly
stableford competition. The day was fine and hot and the course was
beautifully presented, as per normal. It is a pity that the course is so far
away from Pattaya and is rarely visited, but the generous green fees and
warm hospitality more than make up for the long trip. The two flights were
cut at nineteen and in division two lady golfer Kanjana Gregory, Barry
Pethig and Roy Mitchell all shared third place with hard fought 30s, whilst
John James drew the curtains on a fine week to take the flight with a level
par score of 36.
Division one saw John Cunningham take third place with
his 34 points, one behind runner-up Steve Nowell (35). Top flight “newbie”,
Brian Bellis, whose golf is continuing to improve, made his mark immediately
with 40 points and post the best score of the day. There were no birdie twos
but bananas were in abundance for the returning Pat Murphy (23 points) and
Keith Hector, whose proud boast that in three months he had successfully
avoided the Banana Booby fell on conspiratorial ears. Enjoy your flight back
to UK Keith!
PSC golf from McAllister’s Bar and Grill
Friday November 26
Century Bangchang
Stableford
Don
McAllister congratulates Dave Miller (left) and Rod Perrin (right) on their
win at Century Bangchang.
On a day that saw The Siam Ryder Cup start, and Shenanigans
Irish Open, it was no surprise that on this Loy Krathong day the turnout was
relatively thin. Never the less, those who did turn up had a relaxing day with
no pressure, on a wind swept course.
So it was that back at McAllister’s, after some of his fine ‘Free’ food
for the golfers, the presentation was done, and Rod Perrin, the ‘ex-copper’
with 38 points was beaten into second place by the winner Dave Miller with a
fine 40 points. T.T.F.N
Back to back wins for Barry Winton
IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Monday Nov 22
Pattaya Country Club
Stableford
1st Barry Winton, 39 - c/b 19 c/b6 14
2nd Norman Isherwood, 39 - c/b 19 c/b6 12
3rd Yves Philibert, 37 - c/b 20
4th Frank Hughes, 37 - c/b 14
5th Chang Suh 36
A large group arrived to find Dave Lee having the mother
of all rows at reception. Once again the staff denied all knowledge of
contract rates and of course the manager “was out” so rather than depart
for another course, the inflated rate of 788 baht was paid and all future
bookings cancelled. Once on the course, players discovered hard fast greens
with difficult pin placings, which meant for many three putts and relatively
high scores. Despite blocking many of his tee shots to the right, Barry
played superbly to shoot 75 gross and narrowly beat off a strong challenge
by Norman, who had seen a two shot reduction in his handicap. Frank Hughes
played beautifully to shoot a 37 gross on the front 9, but faded on the back
to allow Yves to sneak in for third place, whilst Chang, who arrived back
the previous day, cast away any signs of jet-lag and comfortably played to
his handicap. Strong winds and tough pin placings clearly effected the
sharpshooters and no 2s were recorded, so rollover time again! Prior to the
prize giving, Richard Livingston, the resident PGA professional, welcomed
back Glyn Nicholas & Chang Suh.
Wednesday Nov 24
Royal Lakeside
Stableford
1st Barry Winton, 43
2nd Chang Suh, 40 - c/b 21 c/b6 14
3rd Al Rolnik, 40 - c/b 21 c/b6 13
4th Yasuo Suzuki, 39 - c/b 23
5th Norman Isherwood, 39 - c/b 18
A surprisingly good turnout for the long drive to
Chonburi for a stableford off the white tees at the immaculate, though
mosquito plagued Royal Lakeside. Most players sustained numerous bites,
despite the caddies efforts to apply anti-mosquito wipes, still at the end
of the day everybody enjoyed the course and vowed to return, no doubt
inspired by good scores! Once again, the man in-form was Barry Winton and he
shot a fabulous 71 gross for his 43 points, which we might add, included
three 3 putts. Al Rolnik, found his form again after weeks in the wilderness
and was perhaps unlucky to lose out to Chang on countback for the runner-up
spot. A superb 37 gross on the back 9 saw Yasuo hold off Norman in the minor
placings. In the rollover 2s, the pool was shared by Ole Stamnes (2), Chang
Suh, Yasuo Suzuki, Don Meloan, Glyn Nicholas, Barry Winton & Guy
Billings. Poor Ole, his two 2s netted him 8 points but he could only manage
a point a hole for the remaining 16 holes in his 24point total, whilst
Trevor Edge, in his last game for two months, scored only 29 points and so,
well and truly open up the ATM for one final day! Back at the Haven, Richard
Livingston, welcomed Don Meloan, Mitch Mitchell and Werner Kuar before
bidding ‘bon voyage’ to Trevor Edge and Kevin & Samantha Taylor.
Friday Nov 26
Siam Country Club
Monthly Medal
Division 1
1st Randall Penrod, 68
2nd Guy Billings, 69
3rd Frank Hughes, 70
Division 2
1st Dave Spendley, 70
2nd Harvey Nolan, 71
3rd Toy Theobold, 72
Despite several regular players being away at Eastern Star, hunting for
glory in the Shenanigans Irish Open, there was still a large contingent to
fight out the popular monthly medal that left poor Dave Lee in a tiz, so much
so that he had driven a few kms before he realized he had left his clubs at
the Haven! Still it turned out to be a fine day and scoring was excellent. In
Division 1, Randall roared back with an amazing 82 gross, to give him a
winning nett 68 off his 14 handicap. Guy shot a superb 74 gross for second
spot, leaving Frank to round out the placings. In Division 2, Dave Spendley,
has been threatening to win ever since he mastered his new Dunlop Loco driver,
today was the day, as he shot a super 70 nett, holding off Harvey and Toy to
narrowly take the honours. In the 2s competition, the pool was shared by Bob
Lindborg, Peter Emslie, Frank Hughes & Barry Traynor (2) Back at the
Haven, Richard Livingston welcomed Marlene & Brian Prudden, Harvey Nolan
& Martin Todd and welcomed back Cliff & Rob Hornsby.
Thai players take home top prizes in the 4th Annual Montien Tennis Championships
Ariyawat Nuamsawat
Arkornkiatsak Burodom and Prasong Poolkwan defeated all
comers to take first prize in the Men’s Singles Open and Senior Men’s
Singles classes at the Montien Tennis Championships.
Playing
hardball during the 4th Annual Montien Tennis Championships.
The event, recently held at the hotel’s Pattaya courts,
saw a field of 50 players of all nationalities compete for the first place
trophy and prizes.
The three-day event was graced with perfect weather and
light winds as the men battled it out on the court in both the open and
seniors’ categories.
In the open class finals Arkornkiatsak Burodom faced
fellow countryman Amnart Srilar. Burodom took advantage of a volley of
Amnart errors to win the tournament.
In the Seniors (over 45) event, Prasong Poolkwan faced
Wolfgang Schuls in the finals. Prasong was too strong for Wolfgang through
the match and easily defeated him for the senior’s title.
Both men received an array of trophies and prizes generously sponsored by
the hotel.
Hide-A-Way visitors
pocket the Moonshine
Jomtien 8 Ball League - Knockout Cup round 1
To vary the programme, league organisers have for the
first time, put together a programme for the League Cup.
This is a knockout competition with winners going forward
in a series of elimination matches to find an eventual winner. To maintain
the interest of those teams knocked out in early rounds with scheduled Plate
Competitions, so all may participate, until the Finals at the end of the
season.
All smiles
after the first round of the Jomtien 8 Ball League Knockout Cup.
The format for the competition is a little different from
the normal Jomtien 8 Ball Pool league rules. Teams of six players compete
over six single games and three doubles matches (as per the regular league)
and in addition, a further six singles games, making it best of 15 frames on
the night.
Thursday November 25 saw the start of the League Cup
series; this report covers the match between the Moonshine Place and the
Hide-A-Way, respectively placed ninth and fourth in the table.
Elder statesman Ron for the home side, lined up against
body beautiful Andy and went down in a tense game almost free of safety
shots. Alan followed Ron and, in a frame of missed chances, went down with 3
balls left on the table to Martin.
The game between Les and Glen was ball-by-ball safety
play. With three colours each the referee did not call a foul that was
apparent to some of the home on-lookers and a minor furore followed.
However, Les ran out the winner for Moonshine, even after failing to pot an
easy black, when Glen followed the black with the cue ball into the same
pocket.
Thus, Moonshine 1, Hide-A-Way 2, so far not too bad. Game
four saw Ollie for the visitors come out on top when an unlucky mistake by
Neil on his last colour left an easy black that Ollie potted with gusto.
Ned, for Moonshine, did well against George who blocked pockets and
pressured continually, when he put the black away with George on his final
colour. In the last game before the interval Gary, for Hide-A-Way,
overwhelmed Barry with his quick and accurate potting. Thus it was Home 2,
Visitors 4.
After tasty mini-hamburgers served up by mine host Ted
Hughes, the fray continued with the doubles games. Ron played well for
Moonshine but was not helped by partner Alan’s errors and they fell easy
prey to visitors Andy and Martin. Up next were Gary and Ollie for Hide-A-Way
against home players, Les and Ned. An error in the formalities of play after
the break was remedied in friendly fashion by a re-rack. A near miracle
finish by the visiting pair defeated Les and Ned with an easy black.
The last doubles game featured Neil and Barry for the
home team and visitors Glen and George. An exciting finish with several near
misses on the black saw the frame victory go to Hide-A-Way.
So, after the doubles it was Moonshine 2, Hide-Away 7.
With six more frames to play could the home team stage a comeback?
Les for the certain, gave it his all for Moonshine and
was in a commanding position to drop the black; he was successful but
unfortunately the white went down as well. The match was irretrievable at
this point; the home team had only pride to play for now.
The evening drew out into what was more like a marathon
session for some of the older home team members. However, after Neil went
down to Gary, mine host Ted, for Moonshine showed a steady hand and ran out
winner of a tactical game following a fluffed opportunity on the black by
Glen. Visitor Ollie was just too much for Barry and demonstrated his
abilities with the cue for a comprehensive win.
Some home team pride was restored when veterans Alan and
Ron won their games against the visitors George and John (Hide-A-Way owner)
with some good steady play and well-taken chances.
Final score Moonshine Place 5 - Hide-A-Way Bar 10. Ah
well, there is always the plate competition!
The rest of the League Cup results were: Woaw’s Pub 8 -
Bolaget 7, and this went down to the wire, the outcome being decided in the
last frame.
Simple Simon - 9 Las Vegas 6, Rose and Thistle 8 -
Country Club 7, again a final frame decider. Earlier, Country Club had
defeated Lucky Bar 12 to 3 in an eliminator to even up the numbers.
The next League Cup games take place on Thursday December 16.
Queen Vic-torious!
The Original Pattaya Pool League - November22
Group C: Shearer’s Sports
Bar 4 - 5 The Queen Vic.
Tonight’s match got off to a smashing start with Jimmy
“The One” (Shearer’s Sports Bar in Soi Buakhao) being the first man of
the evening to pot a black ball! In fact it went in off the break of the
first game against Irish Paul. Re-rack time! But as soon as he got the
chance, Paul, who suspiciously looks like an experienced snooker player in
real life, got down to the black in seconds and finished confidently with a
double-bank into the centre pocket chalking up the first game for the away
team.
“Sad-Makham-B” aka Kev (who always has a smile on his
face) ominously approached the table looking for early revenge for Shearers’
against Baz. Although Baz is the most mature player from The Queen Vic in
Soi Honey Inn, he has more hair than the rest of his younger team mates put
together!
He had no intentions of making it easy for Kev and played
a sly game and nearly won at one point when Kev fouled. But soon after,
Kev’s smile broadened when Baz gave away 2 shots. This was all Kev needed
to finish the game and he even cheekily played a double bank shot across the
centre of the table sinking the black with ease.
Sadly, Porn, one the home team’s secret Thai weapons,
was crushed by “XXXL” Andy next. When Andy was down to his last ball
Porn desperately tried to snooker him but failed and Andy bulldozed his way
to victory for Queen Vic.
Whilst it was looking like an easy victory (and vital
equalising game) for home team player “Mad-in-Mallorca” Andy, playing
against Adam, the end result was quite the reverse. Surprisingly, although
he swiftly potted all his balls, Andy went in-off the black, now making the
score 3 - 1. Although Adam had been given little opportunity to show off his
talent on the pool table, he did, nevertheless return to his team corner
with a big smile on his face.
The war was now on as “Buff”, Shearers’ most
formidable looking player, made his way to the table and sized up his
opponent “Max” aka Geert from Belgium. All eyes were on the table as
both players calculated each shot, picking off any stray balls along the way
and then defying one another to make a mistake. The pace of the game slowed
right down as it became a battle of wits and strategy. Finally “shot of
the match” went to Buff as he decimated Max with a spectacular winning
shot sending the black ball all around the table before potting it in the
corner.
With the score now 3 - 2 it was now up to Thai Ken
“C” to snatch back that vital equalising game for Shearers’ before
half time. But what he didn’t realise was that he was up against Captain
“Mr. Q” Terry. Ken played clean and safe shots with his snooker cue but
it wasn’t enough, as he fouled on a controversial touching-ball giving
Terry 2 shots to secure the game making the score 4 - 2 at half time.
Food fit for an army was then served up with an assorted
buffet of sweet n’ sour, tangy chicken and rice, a selection of sandwiches
and “the best real roast potatoes in Pattaya” as Shearers’ Boss Chris
was proud to point out. He was right too!
The match was far from over, now as the next 2 games saw
Andy and Kev defeat Terry and Geert, with Andy sinking a straight black.
Thai Ken “C” and Porn also snatched the next game against Andy and Paul
taking the score to 4 games all.
Jimmy and Buff were drawn against Baz and Adam in this
last, deciding game. After a dry break from Baz, nothing went down until
Adam stepped up and immediately potted 3 stripes. When it was his turn Baz
sank 3 more. With 1 stripe left before the black they were in a very
dangerous position and Jimmy and Buff knew this. Once again, both played a
cagey and streetwise game until they were left with 1 spot on the table and
2 shots following a foul, to finish. It was Buff’s turn to play... End of
story, or was it? There was cheering and chanting as everyone watched the
black go down but when the white went around the table and went down as
well; there was absolute uproar. Victory to Queen Vic!
The atmosphere was electric all night: the match was filled with shocks
and surprises for everyone. But the award for “Character of the Match”
must surely be given to the table because at times it seemed display a mind
of its own!
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
What did I do for Loy Krathong , the most romantic night
of the year? Why had turkey sandwiches and watched “real” football. Age
does take its toll. “When the cats away the mice will play.” That’s
what they do say. In this case the cat is Freddy Roach who trains Manny
Pacquiao. As the time shortens for Pacquiao’s fight against Thai, Fashung
3K Battery the cat is not happy. He arrived in the Philippines at 4 a.m. and
by 10 a.m. he had taken control. Pacquiao seemed to be tired during a
routine 6 round sparing session Roach put his foot down. “I told him ‘no
more bulls**t’” said Roach.
Another guy that needs a good swift kick in the backside
is former world champ Derrick Gainer. He was supposed to be stepping through
the ropes today to challenge WBA 126lb titleist Chris John. The week Gainer
was supposed to arrive in Indonesia, he decided that he didn’t want to
fight outdoors. “It’s impossible to follow Gainer’s request (to move
the fight indoors) in such a limited time”, said promoter Pino Bahari.
“We have discussed everything with his handlers long before, including
this clause of an outdoors arena, but suddenly Gainer cancelled the
agreement and requested additional money. We had set up everything and we
have spent a lot of money to feature this bout in Indonesia”. WBA #14 Jose
“Cheo” Rojas steps in. This is Gainer’s MO. He signs for a fight and
then threatens to pull out at the last minute unless he gets more money. He
use to be promoted by his good buddy Roy Jones Jr. but his antics finally
had Jones saying “No Mas.”
Tonight in the ‘Land of Nervous Sheep’ (European
Division), Alex Arther (18-1) puts his International title on the line
against Nazareno Gast?n Ruiz (21-6) of Argentina. I mention this because
Arther is a pal of “Second Road Hero” Dapper Dave Stewart. “Beating
Arthur up will be like carving a side of beef and I will enjoy doing it.
Arthur has never faced a tough Argentinean or any Latino fighter before and
it will be a painful experience for him. He got beat by a fighter claiming
to be Hispanic (Michael Gomez) and now he will feel what it is like to fight
a real one. I’ve fought in the roughest, toughest and dirtiest places in
Argentina where you have not only had to fight in the ring but also fight
your way out of the hall as well. I have not had the luxuries Arthur has
had. He’s flashy and arrogant and I don’t like him and I can’t wait to
beat him.”
On deck in Las Vegas Sunday (Pattaya Time), is Jose Luis
Castillo (50-6-1) vs. Joel Casamayor (31-2) for the WBC Lightweight title.
Casamayor has made a career of ducking Thai Yodsanan Nathachai (43-2-1).
Cassamayor though he had Diego Corrales’s number only to lose twice. Now
he opts for Castillo, who can fight a lot. Jose’ Luis’s last two losses
have come at the hands of Floyd Mayweather Jr. by decision. Casamayor could
be in the deep end of the pool without his water wings.
It’s still a week away from the Ricky Hatton-Ray
Oliveira fight which Hatton either has or has not called a “tune up”.
Oliveira expressed himself on the talent of Mr. Hatton, “I always wanted
to fight Micky Ward because I believed I had the style to beat him. I never
got the chance. Now I’m in against a guy who fights like a young Micky
Ward. Hatton’s tough and he’s a great body puncher, too. But I know
Micky Ward very well and Ricky Hatton is no Micky Ward. I believed I could
beat Micky; I know I can whip Ricky. Ward got Gatti because he beat Neary.
Hatton says he has one eye on me and one eye on Tszyu. Big mistake! I’ve
got both eyes on Hatton and after I beat him in his hometown, I’ll start
looking at Tszyu, Gatti, (Floyd) Mayweather or any of the top 140 pounders
in the world.”
The usual suspects gathered in Las Vegas USA last Sunday
for a plethora of championship fights utilizing the guys at lower weights.
Some may not need validation that predicting boxing results is not my
strong. Last week, “The key to this one may be that Barrera took a severe
beating at the hand of Manny Pacquiao last year. Barrera’s last against an
aging Paulie Ayala would support the “Pacquiao did him in theory” as
espoused by your humble and parched correspondent. “Yea right! Stupido.
Marco Antonio Barrera, now 59-4 got a majority decision (114-114,
115-114,115-113) to win the rubber match against Eric Morales (47-2) last
Sunday. Barrera simply swarmed Morales keeping him from being effective from
long range except for rounds 7, 8 and 12. The win puts Barrera back on top.
Maybe a rematch with Pacquiao? Both the WBC/IBF jr. light tiles were up for
grabs. Barrera will probably tell the WBC what to do with their title. He
did the last time he won it. Barrera was a big underdog.
Rafael Marquez (33-3) had little trouble when he disposed
of former two-time champ Mauricio Pastrana (31-5-1) in 8.
The contest for the IBF Bantam title was halted when
Pastrana’s corner asked Referee Robert Byrd to end the beating. There may
be nothing worse than the dreaded visit from the ‘Teelock’s’ family,
all 500 of them that somehow seemed to need medical attention. Close may
have been the WBO minimum weight snoozer between champion Ivan Calderon
(21-0) and Carlos Fajardo (12-5). How boring was it? Try 120-107, 119-108,
118-109. Oscar Larios (54-3-1) defended his WBC Jr. Feather title with what
was really a paid workout against outgunned. Nedal Hussein (36-2). WBC Jr.
The winner got 120, 119, 118 - a trifecta.
There are some things that boggle the mind. Recently in
Japan, former national champion Hiroaki Yokota stepped in the ring for the
first time since 1998. He had been forced to retire when he reached the age
37. The Japanese Commission was very strict when age came into play. Now
they are not so strict if the boxer can pass a “strict medical
examination.” So 43-year-old Yorkota gets back in the ring against Thai
ranked #8 Chatisuk Twins-gym. Yorkota struggled for a UD. Question? Chatisuk
is 3-5 so how the hell could he be ranked #8 by anyone? Drive a man to
drink. “Gentleman start your engine.”
One guy that’s no “BS” is my pal Patrick the Fighting Flying Frog.
Tomorrow he’ll be celebrating the 43rd Anniversary of his birth. Yea I
know he does look older. The party is at his Five Star establishment,
Patrick’s Belgian Restaurant-Caf?, 216/51-52, Moo 10, Off 2nd Rd, from 8
p.m. Free Buffet and lots of cold beer. Mosey on by. Oh yes, “Happy
Birthday Pal.” Of course I’ll drink to that.
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