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Winton and Billings
Scramble Eastern Star
Mike Franklin
Barry Winton and Guy Billings birdied twelve holes to
return a gross 60 and net 58 in the annual Shenanigans ‘Santa Pairs
Scramble’ on December 22 at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort. Both
playing off a five handicap, and assisted on the par fives by the ‘Santa
Tees’ being red, they made the course look easy by clearly both playing
well.
 Phil
Taylor (right) and Dennis Willett (left) claimed third place with a net 62
at Eastern Star on December 22.
The excellent condition of the course contributed too.
However, just a couple of shots behind were Eastern Star
residents Paul and Patrick Horsting with a net 60.6. Patrick, now 10 years
old and a very competent young golfer with a 19 handicap off the medal tees,
took full advantage of the forward tees and ably assisted by Dad, took the
runners-up spot. Phil Taylor and Dennis Willett claimed third place with a
net 62.
 Winners
Barry Winton (right) and Guy Billings (center) with Mike back Shenanigans
after returning a net 58 in this year’s Santa Pairs Scramble.
Next in line for the awards were the closest pairs. Usa
Chaiyosit and Lamud Chaidara were the best Ladies pair with net 69. Pekka
Raiha and Timo Maki the best Men’s pair with 62.8, and Ken & Beth Lill
the best Mixed pair with a net 66.2
The technical prizes were sponsored by Guinness and near
pins were claimed by Doug Campbell, Dennis Willett, Eero Pirhonen and
Amphiew Rimngam. The longest first putts were holes by Vince Smyth, Phil
Taylor, Jason Payne and Bob McLachlan. Dennis Willett drove longest on #4
for the Men and Lamun Hanley on #7 for the Ladies.
 Paul
(right) and Patrick Horsting with a net 60.6 came in a second place.
Beth Lill was Nearest the Heineken Keg on #12.
Lisa Lurve braved the golf course for the first time ever
and, with partner Kim Price (also relatively new to golf) managed the
Highest Net Score by a considerable margin. They were suitably rewarded with
large Diabalo cocktails and downed them in a flash.
All 98 players received a souvenir Santa from Shenanigans
Moo at Registration, some Lapland tees, together with a free Irish coffee
and 20% food & drink discount voucher for use back at the party. Tony
Stevens efficiently carried out the scoring at Eastern Star and, in spite of
the traffic, was back in good time for the prize giving.
 Lisa
Lurve on the golf course for the first time with golfing partner Kim Price
they managed the Highest Net Score for the day and were rewarded with large
Diabalo cocktails.
Back at Shenanigans it was bargain Steak Night and with
Heineken at 90 baht a pint it promised a good evening. The lucky draw
followed the prize-giving with a range of prizes including 25 pints of
Heineken donated by Tony Stevens from the keg he won at Shenanigans Irish
Open, and from Eastern Star a ‘Weekend for Four’ at the Country Club
& Resort.
Scrambles are always fun, and a relaxed way of playing competitive golf.
The Santa Scramble was no exception - it just happened to be more festive
than usual.
Sportsbag: Spirit of golf lacking
Dear
Sportsbag,
I would start by saying I am very disappointed with the
spirit of the game here. In over 30 years playing/purgatory, I see very
little evidence of fair play. Too many times have I witnessed players,
looking for relief where there is none, and getting all upset, with a lot
of muttering that they have to play the ball as it lies.
I am asked all the time about rules, very few make an
effort to look at a rulebook. A common reply is, “its not that
serious” no its not, but it should be a level playing field. Golf is
self-regulating game.
Then there is gents handicap of 36 here in Pattaya. Two
shots on every hole seems excessive to me. Time and time again, I see
players winning on this handicap, this of course is no surprise; my granny
could win with a 36hcp. My money would be on the 36 handicapper beating,
Vijay, Woods, and their likes.
A handicap is not designed so you can win, but to help
you and give you an idea what level you are playing at. Everyone has their
own handicap secretary, and can reduce their handicap anytime.
Merry Xmas & A Guid New Year to all the supporters
of the Rising Sun Golf, keep yer heid doon an follow through!
Matt Anderson
Pattaya Open 2004 a resounding success
Annual tournament attracts over 600 players
form around the country
Suchada Tupchai
The number of competitors playing in this year’s
Pattaya Open is proof of the growing popularity of tennis in Thailand. The
3-day event, held at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort drew 639 tennis
competitors from around the country, each vying for their share of the 1
million baht in prize money put on offer.
Pisai
Panomwan Na Ayuthaya, city councilor with with tournament winners after the
three-day event.
Proceedings commenced at 8.30 a.m. on Friday, December
10 with Mayor Niran Wattanasartsathorn opening ceremonies, as players
from under 10 to over 100 years combined age eagerly awaited their
matches.
Thachapong Kotivanich, Pattaya Tennis Association
president said, “This is the second year for the Pattaya Open. The
tournament is open to both Thai and foreign players and is aimed at
improving the overall standard of the game in Thailand. Our goal is also
to make Pattaya a haven for both tourism and sporting activities.”
Thachapong went on to say that the large number of
entries for this year’s event was a promising sign for the sport in the
eastern region.
Mayor Niran confirmed this and added, “Not only is
it healthy exercise but enables players to further their skills,
concentration and game strategy. I foresee many of the younger players,
with constant coaching and practice, will eventually play at the
professional level.”
The three-day competition, held from December 10 to 13
closed on a somber note with many participants already leaving Pattaya
after playing their games. The prize presentation and after tournament
party saw city councilor Pisai Panomwan Na Ayuthaya presiding over the
presentations. However, those who remained for the 3-day period
celebrated their successful completion in one of Pattaya’s most
participated tennis events.
Results:
(Winners only)
Youth Class:
Boys U10: Parl Rangsiborirak
Boys U12: Nattatorn Thanchaiyanant
Boys U14: Kiitpol Willaikoon
Girls U10: Supasara Chompoosri
Girls U12: Nattwadee Suttiprapar
Girls U14: Saggaporn Mahachaorenkul
Open Class:
Men’s Doubles: Permpol Auntabutr and Thara Thantasuwan
Mens Singles: Supannya Apaiphan
Women’s Doubles: Orawan Lamungthong and Orawan Wongkamolarsai
Women’s Singles: Pornthip Mulsap
Seniors Doubles - combined age
Mens Over 80: Worapol Thongkhumchu and Niti Sricharoen
Men’s Over 90: Sakdichai Powarpitak and Pornrat Ararmwit
Men’s Over 100: Pan Maharakcoca and Harold Mollin
Mixed Doubles plus combined age:
Open Class: Orawan Wongkamolarsai and Eakarintr Pisuteanand
Combined over 80: Aranya Wongkaew and Niti Sricharoen
Combined over 90: Siriluk Darnchuwong and Thanyapol Sethsompng
Rotary Club Sattahip bowling fundraiser for region’s underprivileged
Suchada Tupchai
Sporting competitions always proves to be a prominent
means to raise funds for the underprivileged. With that in mind, the
Rotary Club of Sattahip held a charity bowling tournament in Pattaya
recently to do just that.
Rear
Admiral Somsak Thanompol, Deputy chief of staff of the Royal Thai Fleet,
Sattahip Naval Base cut the ribbon declaring the competition officially
open. He was joined by Sattahip Rotarians, led by Sattahip Rotary Club
president Nucharee Thanomsuksant.
The morning kicked off at Pattaya’s P.S. Bowl on
December 11 with Rotarians, competitors and honored guests registering
for the one-day competition in the hope of winning the prestigious first
place trophy under the auspices of H.E. Bhichai Rattakul, Rotary
International president 2002-2003.
Rear
Admiral Somsak Thanompol rolled the first ball to fully start the
competition.
Rear Admiral Somsak Thanompol, deputy chief of staff
of the Royal Thai Fleet, Sattahip Naval Base presided over the opening
ceremonies and literally, starting the ball rolling for the charity
tournament.
Bowlers competed in both team and individual classes
for the first place trophies as well as for the special booby prize, in
what was more of a fun event rather than a serious competition.
The day’s competition was aimed at raising funds for the Rotary
club’s scholarship program for children and other numerous community
based projects.
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday December 20 Pattaya Country
Club Stableford
The Chilcott Cup Xmas Fayre. This was the Xmas
competition where everybody brings a gift wrapped present and the best
Stableford score gets the first pick and so on. The course on the day was in
the best condition we have seen in many years, with lots of golfers on the
course.
 Elias
Magnesson
Aussie Mike Gosden took the Cup with an amazing 45 points
off an 8 handicap, that he will not see again on this trip. Other notable
scores were Elias Magnusson with 43 points, Monte Sykes with 41 points and
Nick Haueis 39 points.
Near Pins #5 Paul Avery #7 Dave Hatton #12 Dave
Cadwallader #16 Paul Huneker.
Thursday December 23
Pattana Golf Club
Stableford
‘Why not Dave, lets give it a try and see how the
players enjoy the day out’, was my immediate reply when the Admiral said
he thought we should book this new course. Mind you, we thought with the
green fees being a little more than they were used to, how many would turn
up. Still life is so tough here we deserve a Christmas present.
 Mike
Gosden
The morning dawned bright and fresh, it would have to be
a miracle this time of year not to, and surprise, surprise, the list was
full to overflowing. One or two of the regulars were ‘sick’ but the
desire to see a new course was in the air.
As we come into the new complex it is obvious someone has
made a major financial commitment, the clubhouse and facilities were first
class, and the thought was to see if the course lived up to this promise.
Onto the course and it was obvious straight away the
course was well designed, and more important the greens are first class,
they are as good as any in the area, some of the more establishes courses
will have to be on their toes. Some of the holes are a little odd though as
we have par 5s shorter than par 4s, and a par 6, that is different.
 Mote
Sykes
I suppose they know what they are doing even if it is a
little bewildering the first time. So take spare balls.
Back to the Clubhouse and into some really fine showers,
even the best of Clubhouses sometimes slip up here, it looks as if they
intend to cater for the discerning golfer.
What next but to the restaurant and a cold one, with a
bite to eat; One of the things I always do, is take a look at this area to
see if the food is OK and the prices and service suit. Generally our players
are quite ‘discerning’ and quickly spot anything they do not like. The
restaurant is very fine, and full, and I mean full, of attentive waiters.
Fortunately, I checked the Menu first; several did not. So I had 2 small
Heinekens and a Sprite - cost 329.56 baht. Now I do not need to say more.
Imagine the cost of a cheese sandwich, and yes I looked!
This is a magnificent venue and well worth visiting, but
it is costly, sometimes in life you have to bite the bullet.
Players
enjoy the Clubhouse
So to the Winners, and in the A Flight, 0 to 16, Monte
Sykes won with 41 points ahead of a countback for Second on 39 points won by
Tony Scamber ahead of Takeshi Hakozaki in third. In fourth was Paul Avery
with 37 points.
In the B Flight, 17 upwards, the winner was Elias
Magmusson with 40 points ahead of Barry Kerr, in a shirt, in second with 37
points. Barry bought two shirts so he can wear one when he wins, hard luck
but close. In third we had a three way countback with 35 points, with Uwe
Kessler in third, Kenny Chung in fourth and Ralf Zwick just losing out.
So to the winding way back with a bunch of contented but
much poorer golfers. Many had not checked the prices. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: #A3 Paul Avery; #A8 Bob Rasmusson; #B3 Otto
San; #B7 Ralf Zwick.
Long Putts: #A9 Monty Sykes; #B9 Dave Cadwallader
Pattaya Bridge Club
High Handicappers enjoy good week
PGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Friday Dec. 17 Plutaluang
Medal
Division 1
1st Randall Penrod, 70
2nd Al Rolnik, 72
3rd Alan Beesley, 75
4th Barry Winton, 76
Division 2
1st Ray Walton, 66
2nd Micky Moore, 73 - c/b 33
3rd Peter Johansson, 73 - c/b 36
4th John Squitero, 74
A long awaited return to the Navy Course and what a
disappointment, rock hard fairways and scruffy “woolly” greens plus on
arrival, no buggies available. From the large turnout, only two players
managed to better their handicap and the man of the day was undoubtedly Ray
Walton, who broke many personal records. Best ever score, first time to
break 100 in Thailand and first ever win in any sporting event! Well done
Ray! In Division 1, it was that man again, Randall who shot a super 70 net
off his 13 handicap and is now sure of a further reduction. Al toiled hard
all day for a very creditable 72 and after that the low handicappers all
found the course conditions just too much! Despite the greens, there was no
shortage of 2s and the pool was shared by Randall Penrod, Al Rolnik, Lars
Christianson, John Squitero and Fred Chadwick.
Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA professional, welcomed George Robbins and welcomed back Alan
Beesley, Trevor Schirmer, Micky Moore, Torlaf Fredriekson and Carl
Lukaweckyj and bade a sad farewell to John & Suzi Lawton.
Monday Dec. 20
Century Chonburi
Stableford
1st BJ Smith, 36 pts
2nd Al Rolnik, 35 pts
3rd Michael Andersson, 34 pts
A very disappointing turnout, but the few that made the
trip were well rewarded with a course in excellent condition and it was
somewhat surprising that only BJ was able to shoot his handicap.
The chasing pack was led by Al, again showing a nice
return to form, with the two Michael’s, Andersson & Dige just a point
away, the latter just missing out on countback. Once again there was no
shortage of 2s and the pool was shared by Takeshi Hakozaki, Trudie
Chadbourn, Fred Land, Michael Andersson, Michael Dige & Roy Thornton.
Back at the Haven, Richard Livingston welcomed back Reg Warner and made a
fond farewell to Lars Christianson.
Wednesday Dec. 22
Phoenix Lakes/Ocean
Stableford
Division 1
1st Phil Groves, 37 pts
2nd Roy Thornton 34 pts- c/b 17
3rd Al Rolnik 34 pts - c/b 14
Division 2
1st John Teague, 38 pts - c/b 22
2nd John Clements, 38 pts - c/b 15
3rd Tom Parks 37 pts
Well, what happened? Phoenix was in superb condition as
always, there was little or no wind, yet only four players managed to break
their handicap! Phil must have been amazed to win Division 1 with just 37
points when normally he would wonder if 40 would be enough! Scores were much
better in Division 2 with John Teague just pipping John Clements on
countback with Tom chasing hard. Presumably the tough pin placings made all
the difference, which were all in the “red” sectors as designated on the
new scorecards. An interesting concept that will certainly prove a great
help to all golfers! Given the large turnout, it was perhaps surprising
there were only four 2s and the pool was shared by Karl Holm, Jens Neilsson,
Bob Lindborg & Tony O’Neill.
Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston welcomed
back Mark Cooper, Karlotta Einsdothip and John Teague.
Healy and Cunningham
Share Siam Victory
PGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
A large group of golfers from the OK Corral paid their
seasonal greetings to Siam Country Club on the shortest day of the year when
they visited to play their weekly medal event. The seasonal water shortages
had left the course very dry and hard but the greens, surprisingly, had some
pace.
The field was cut at eighteen and under and division two
golfers found the going tough and Richard Wardell posted a score of net 80
to grab third place, two shots behind Rob Dolan’s net 78. The old head of
Roy Mitchell used all his experience of the course to wring out a net 74 and
take the divisional award.
Division one saw Terry Phur pip a clutch of golfers on 75
by one shot to take third place whilst low handicap golfers, John Healy and
John Cunningham, were the only players to break par and take the day with
their net 71. There were no birdie twos and a large turnout at Treasure Hill
is guaranteed for the rollover.
The Bunker Boys at the OK Corral have a simple rule of
etiquette, and the use of cellphones mean the Bananas! John Healy’s
riposte that many people want cabs at this time of the year won no favours
with Mr. Loy and he was duly presented with the famed fruit for his error.
However, he did have the pleasure of firing the lowest score of the day.
John Healy Doubles Up at
Treasure Hill
On Thursday, December 23, a spirited group of golfers
from the OK Corral followed the star (believed to be Mr. Loy) up route 331
to Santa’s Grotto at Treasure Hill for their annual festive stableford
competition.
The course was beautifully presented with excellent fairways and well
paced greens and, as always, it presented a fine golfing challenge for the
group. There was only one division and inevitably at Treasure Hill no player
managed to beat par with Bill Hewitt and Paul Butler sharing third place
with 31 points, two behind the steady Bob Pearce, in second place. John
Healy, a winner at Siam two days previously, maintained his form and scored
36 points, faltering on only three holes and without a zero on his card. An
excellent performance and a deserved winner. Brian Bellis celebrated
Christmas early with his sole birdie two on the thirteenth hole and this set
the festive bells ringing back at the OK Corral, much to everyone’s joy.
Angus MacFarlane’s face matched the colour of Rudolph’s nose when his
low score was revealed but he later revealed it was the result of the sun,
and not embarrassment, as he tried to conceal a bag of bananas in his golf
bag! The day’s golf had served as a perfect prelude to the imminent
festive season and nobody was happier than double winner, John Healy.
Flipper goes 66
off the stick!
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s!
Sunday Dec. 19
Green Valley
Stableford
1st A Flight: Phil Mitchell, 48 pts
2nd A Flight: Steve Mascari, 38 pts
3rd A Flight: Klaus Schackt, 38 pts
1st B Flight: John Emmerson, 44 pts
2nd B Flight: Brian Wilkinson, 40 pts
3rd B Flight: Pete Stonebridge, 36 pts
1st C Flight: Bob Lindborg, 36 pts
2nd C Flight: Steve Mulberry, 35 pts
3rd C Flight: Colin Davis, 35 pts
1st D Flight: Willie Turnbell, 42 pts
2nd D Flight: Brian Holmes, 41 pts
3rd D Flight: John “JtB” Dearden, 36 pts
Near Pins: #13 & #16 Gerry Powers
Records are meant to be broken, but usually it takes a
little while. Not in this case. Phil Mitchell who is a well-seasoned 6
handicap, went low, real low, on Sunday at Green Valley shooting a gross 66
for a no-one-begrudges-him 48 points. This magnificent round newly sets the
bar for the finest gross score in Society history. Phil was followed in A
Flight, at a distance, by two fellow veterans, Steve Mascari and Klaus
Schackt, who were only sorted by a count back.
A dramatic story lost in the wake of Phil’s exemplary
round, was the comeback of Golf Manager John Emmerson, who came off a
several month layoff, necessitated by a chronic back problem, to gather 44
points in an effort that may well have grabbed the headlines any other week.
John’s round was supported by a gross 75! Brian Wilkinson followed John
across the finish line, four points adrift, with a fine 40 points. B Flight
was rounded out by the Headmaster’s count back decision over Paul Young.
C Flight was the only modest flight in the lot of
Sunday’s four as the old plodder and Scourge of Green Valley, Bob
Lindborg, took first with 36 points. He was followed by a gaggle of three at
35 points, which when sliced and diced by a count back, leaving the Steve
Mulberry in second, The Donkey in third and poor Sean Murphy in the cold.
B Flight was top heavy as Willie Turnbell’s 42 points
edged a well-deserving Brian Holmes’ 41 points. Natnui probably called
John Dearden by his nickname when she was advised that his 36 points were
more favorably distributed for a count back victory and the last pay slot.
In a day of performances, this month’s Medal holder
didn’t disappoint as he won both Near Pins.
Monday Dec. 20
Khao Kheow - C &
Yellow or White Tees
Stableford
1st Yellow A Flight: Rick Sharp, 38 pts
2nd Yellow A Flight: Phil Corbin, 37 pts
3rd Yellow A Flight: Simon Philbrook, 36 pts
1st Yellow B Flight: John Clements, 32 pts
2nd Yellow B Flight: Tom Breslin, 32 pts
3rd Yellow B Flight: Mark Cooper, 32 pts
1st White Flight: Claus Birk Thomsen, 40 pts
Near Pin: # B8 - Klaus Schackt; # C8 Phil Corbin
The vast majority of the field has come to appreciate
that the fine course at Khao Kheow is a lot of fun from the longer Yellow
tees and that the challenge is as rewarding, if not more so than racking up
a bundle of points on the shorter configuration. Of course, the White Tees
do have their place for the shorter hitter, those coming off a break or
those who play up for the camaraderie of the four ball. That explains the
choice.
Rick Sharp put a point between him and Hawaii’s Phil
Corbin, and the latter kept a point beyond Simon Philbrook to complete the
Yellow Flight’s A Division. As expected the higher handicapped and usually
shorter hitting B Division of Yellow Flight found the going tougher. Tops
was 32 points, but it was shared by three. A count back put Johnny Clements
on the top step, Mark Cooper on the bottom step and Tom Breslin betwixt the
Two.
Claus Birk Thomsen came off an extended hiatus from
Pattaya, seeking to re-tool his game on the more comfortable White-teed
eighteen and showed he was ready to resume his fine play as he put 40 points
in the winner’s circle.
Wednesday Dec. 22
Bangpra
White Tees
Stroke/Medal
1st A Flight: Kenneth Anderson, net 72
2nd A Flight: Moe Deverdenne, net 73
3rd A Flight: Egon Neilsen, net 73
1st B Flight: Poo Supaporn, net 70
2nd B Flight: Charles Li, net 71
3rd B Flight: Paul Young, net 72
Near Pins: #13 Ralf Zwick; #17 Coco
Newcomer Kenneth Anderson shot a gross 78, net 72, for
the top spot in A Flight. Mates Moe Deverdenne and Egon Neilsen prevailed in
a five-way count back that left Joe Mooneyham, Mike Gosden and Michele
Sancillo on the outside looking in. The paramour of the GM took B Flight as
Charles Li and Paul Young stretched out in one stroke increments behind her.
Friday Dec. 24
Century Banchang
White Tees
Stableford
1st A Flight: Paul Young, 37 pts
2nd A Flight: Tore Elliasen, 37 pts
3rd A Flight: John Emmerson, 36 pts
1st B Flight: Andreas Grunenberg, 36 pts
2nd B Flight: Neil Cameron, 33 pts
3rd B Flight: Peter Barathy, 32 pts
Near Pins: # 13 Andreas Grunenberg; # 15 Steve Mascari
With holiday rates being proffered by local area courses,
the moderate increase historically sought by old friend Century Banchang was
the chosen venue. The golf is good and the apr?s golf better. Jim Wickstrom
in a grand display of sportsmanship consistent with the man and with the
game, called in late and DQ’d himself due to a scoring error he remembered
when at home. Jim would have won a three-way count back for A Flight first.
Kudos to Jim. Old friends Paul Young had the better of a two-way countback
with another old friend, Tore Elliasen in A Flight. Golf Manger John
Emmerson came third with an even to handicap 36 points despite a double
bogey on the eighteenth. Good guy Andreas Grunenberg snatched the B Flight
gold and a Near Pin as he was the only B Flight player to match his
handicap. The Clubmaker to the Stars, whose name is appearing in these
columns with some regularity of late was second and nice guy Peter Barathy
was happy to see any loot with 32 points.
George May Takes
The Honours At Bang Chang
PSC golf with The Bunker
Monday December 20 was a much cooler day for golf when
The Boys from The Bunker went to Century Golf Course Bang Chang for a Medal
competition. The course was in good condition but the greens were found to
be faster than norm.
 Danny
Greer - Runner-up at Bang Chang and Near Pin winner at Phoenix
With the field split into two Divisions George May in
Division A had one of those days when everything went right shooting a net
64 to take first prize. Second came Brian Bellis with a very good Net 69 and
in third place came Geoff Parker with Net 71.
In Division B, Curtis Hessler took the honours with a Net
69 followed by Danny Greer with Net 76 and David Johnson with Net 78. Near
Pin prizes were shared between Rod Stevens, Mick Lloyd, Brian Maddox and
Granville Swanson.
Phoenix Country Club
Phoenix Country Club is always a nice course to play,
excellently maintained and in first class condition.
It was hot when The Bunker Boys visited last Wednesday
and the field was again split into two Divisions, in Division A Mick Ramshaw
returned a Stableford score of 37 points to take first place with Granville
Swanson and Brian Wilkins second and third with 35 and 33 points
respectively.
Division B saw Scotsman Bob Lawrence winning again with
38 Stableford points followed by David Johnson with 37 points and in joint
third place were Les Hall and John Preddy both with 35 Stableford points.
Near Pin prizes were awarded to Danny Greer, David Johnson and Mike Lloyd.
The Golfer of the Month Competition is getting
interesting going into the final week of the month. Leading the field is
Mick Ramshaw with 37 points from his best five rounds of golf in the month
followed closely by a clutch of golfers within striking distance, namely Bob
Lawrence, Curtis Hessler, George Redgewell, last month’s winner Les Hall,
Brian Bellis, John Preddy and George May, with only two games left to play
in December the competition will be keenly contested to the end. Watch this
space to find out who will have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year
by being named as The Bunker’s Christmas Golfer of the Month!
The Bunker Boys are playing three times a week during the
high season (Monday’s Wednesday’s and Friday’s) so if you fancy a
round of golf 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 Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year from all at The Bunker.
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar
Tuesday December 21
Noble Place
Stableford
So here we are in the new Bert’s,run by his wife Pu,
and we start off the day with one of his fine breakfasts. Incidentally the
format will be as it previously was, and it is a fine start to the day. I
went in during the week and actually paid for one of his English Breakfasts,
mind it was in the afternoon, and it really is a full meal, back bacon the
lot.
 (l-r)
Bert Elson, Bill Knight the day’s winner with 38 stableford points and Bob
Noble, emcee for the presentation.
Back to the plot, and a long drive later we all teed off
at Noble Place, and this was the first time I have played there for some
time. You forget how good this course is, when the road is finished it will
get pretty busy. After a shower, we ate a little in the restaurant and the
food was good at good prices. This is a fine Clubhouse.
Back at Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar the boys partook of a
fine stew laid on by Bert until Bob Noble did the presentations to the
winners. The winner of the day was Bill Knight with 38 points.
Technical Prizes: Paul Sharples, Bob Noble, Paddy Wilson,
Brian Rought, John Evans, Bob Bender, Nick Nicholas, Ray Spurling, Colin
Bavington.
For those who remember the old competition this could prove to be even
better. T.T.F.N
Dige wins with Xtra Xmas cheer
PSC golf from McAllister’s Bar and Grill
Friday December 24
Century Bang Chang
Stableford
 Winners
Michael Dige (left) and Jimmy Little with Santa and his “Helper”.
Great Day, course gets better week-by-week and we had hot
showers in the changing room, what more can one want?
A good turn out for Christmas Eve morning saw some good
scores and later back at Don’s bar as we tucked into some of his fine food,
Father Christmas presented the winners.
Michael Dige won with what must be the best round of the
year, when he shot 42 points off a 4 handicap and had 7 birdies. Not a man to
play ‘off the stick’. In second place was Jimmy Little who also had a
fine round with 40 points. Then a little Christmas cheer. T.T.F.N.
Cafe Ole moves
into fourth place
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Cafe Ole moved into fourth place after taking four points
from Mai’s Thai Restaurant and made a giant step up the standings. Brother
D lost no ground and remains in first place as they won three points from
Domicil.
200
Bowlers - Kheaw, Tue, Rich, Morn, Tui, Bill and Mio.
Three Sisters kept the pressure on Brother D as they also
won three points from Cafe Kronborg. House of the Golden Coin grabbed three
points from Friends and joined a three-way tie for fifth place
Bill Key led his VFW Post 9876 team to a three-point win
over Q Cars. Bill has been unwell and it is good to see him get back in form.
Shenanigans got back on the winning track as they shut down Jack & Tar and
winning all four points in the match.
Best bowlers of the day:
Rich, Jack & Tar: 175, 205 and 201 games and a 581 series Mio, House of
the Golden Coin: 203 game and a 566 series Kheaw, House of the Golden Coin:
203 game Ooy, House of the Golden Coin: 509 series Jim, Friends: 513 series
Morn, Three Sisters: 208 game and a522 series La, Three Sisters: 510 series
Kran, Cafe Kronborg: 194, 190 and 167 games and a 551 series Dang, Cafe
Kronborg: 539 series Bill Key, VFW Post 9876: 203 game Tue, VFW Post 9876:
173, 204 and 178 games and a 555 series Peter, Domicil: 506 series Nual, Cafe
Ole: 524 series Tui - Cafe Ole 200 game
PSC fishing from the Cafe Kronborg - December 19
Look at the Sea and you will see that generally of late the waves have
been white topped, and the wind whipping off the water has been causing the
trees to more than wave their leaves at you.
 Captain
Pong shows off a big Cobia, whilst the fishermen look on.
Out at sea the waves have been quite bouncy, but well
within bounds for the accomplished sailor, and what is more, with the water
temperature dropping, there has been a good number of fish for the
fisherman.
So it was that Marc Fontenot on his first trip here for
several years decided to treat a young Thai boy he has been sponsoring at
school for several years, to a day out on the Sea. The other thing is the
scholar is unable to speak or hear, and I find this particularly commendable
of Marc. What a fine plan!
As they say ‘The best laid plans of mice and men’ and
as I picked them up it was apparent that Marc was not well. He had eaten
something bad the day before, and I do not need to tell you how bad he felt.
However after informing him the boat had just had a new sit down ‘Loo’
fitted he bravely decided to go so as not to spoil his protege’s day out.
So to Sea, on ‘The Dolphin’, and of course in the
circumstances the wind blew and it was rocky. However we soon hit into a Ray
and landed it. Marc for the next few hours was thankful for the new
facilities.
After moving to a more sheltered area and putting the
rods out, all of a sudden two of the rods bent at the same time, and the
reels screamed. One of the lines went slack after 5 minutes or so and we
found the wire trace bitten through, probably a big Barracuda, but the other
continued to scream.
The second line provided a real tussle as the fish took
itself all around the boat, in the process picking up several other lines.
At last with a tired angler hanging on, the fish was finally brought in and
proved to be a 20 kilo plus Cobia. A fine fish for eating!
The Seas did not get any better but during the day many smaller fish to 1
kilo were landed to ensure a Gourmets delight. After a while, windblown and
tired, we returned to port and a relieved Marc stepped ashore. T.T.F.N.
LK Mansion Blackballed by Bunker!
The Original Pattaya Pool League - December20
Group A: LK Mansion 4 - 5 The Bunker
All was quiet on the northern front of Soi Buakhao.
“Blind Beggar” Gordon was briefing his team on some finer points of the
rules as everyone eagerly awaited the arrival of the enemy. Confidence in
the camp was high since Round 1 saw LK Mansion knock divots out of the
Bunker on their own table, 6 - 3. Just then a car parked up and within
moments, the away team wandered in, hot off the golf courses and with an
entourage of supporters, one of them even on crutches! Game on!
The boys and
ladies from the Bunker victorious at home in round 2.
“LK Del-Boy” aka Darren broke off against Les in the
opening game. Like a whirlwind Del-Boy flew around the table and was soon
down to only 2 stripes. But in all the excitement he fouled after touching
the black. Les was not going to be put off and calmly made use of his 2
shots. But it was not enough as later he too fouled and Del-Boy seized this
chance for victory and ended with a fast and furious shot sending the black
all around the table before sinking it. LK 1 - 0.
After a dry break from Tony (Bunker) and Greg soon put
down 2 spots but fouled soon after. Tony’s second shot left the black
dangerously right over a corner bag! With the black waiting, Greg was only 2
balls away from victory. But he narrowly missed a cut into the centre
placing the pressure back on Tony who still had 5 stripes up, most of which
were near the black! Having potted one, Tony tried to move some balls into
the open but one ball cannoned onto another and in seconds it clipped the
black sending it down. LK 2 - 0.
Just at that moment came a crash of chairs with bodies
flying all over the place in the corner of the bar. Was this the
Hillsborough disaster of ’89 happening all over again but this time in Soi
Buakhao? Fortunately the giggles from the Thai ladies and boisterous laughs
from the lads who were nearby, painted a different picture. It was then that
Simon, one of LK’s regular players appeared from the debris and stepped up
to play against Brian. The pace of play was swift and soon both players were
left with one ball each before the black. Steve went for the finish first
but was unsuccessful. Brian, in turn, cut his spot into a corner pocket and
moved the black into position for an easy win. Bunker 1 - 2.
Richard broke against Farang Lady, Lorraine. In seconds
he was down to his last 2 stripes. Lorraine played safe seemingly undeterred
by Richard’s potting skills. After his next visit he was on the black but
couldn’t see it. Lorraine potted her first spot and played safe again
surrounding the black with her balls. She managed to force Richard to foul
four times in a row, each time picking off a ball here and there until she
only had one spot remaining. Richard now had a chance but missed it! Was it
pressure or frustration? Lorraine went in for the kill but just missed the
centre pocket leaving a simple black for Richard to win. LK 3 - 1.
It was now that the man on crutches slowly limped towards
the table. Was he really going to play and if so was he going to use one of
his crutches for a cue? At that moment, after a cry from the crowd of
“Come on Son!” Des hurled them to the floor, grabbed a cue and shouted
back, “Let’s play!” Beau broke for LK and it wasn’t long before he
only had 2 stripes left. Des however, dismissed the excruciating pain in his
knee and soon only had 3 of his balls remaining. He then began his attack
run, or should we say, limp! After a pause to chalk his cue, Des sank his
last spot and quickly dispatched the black. Bunker 2 - 3!
The last singles game saw yet another surprise, as John
(Bunker) seemed in control of the game all the way, despite opponent Jon’s
efforts to snooker him. A win looked certain as the black effortlessly went
down but amazingly, the white bounced off a rail and in-off the opposite bag
shocking everyone, making the score 4 - 2 at half time to LK.
With only one frame to win and three chances to triumph,
how could things possibly go wrong? At least that’s what the LK Team
thought. But, the Bunker team now knew the table and it showed as they
snatched back the next 2 games with Brian/Lorraine defeating Del-Boy/Greg as
well as Les/Larry overcoming Beau/Jon bringing the scores level.
All eyes were on the deciding game between Simon/Richard and Des/John.
The home team pair played with youthful aggression whilst the away team used
their age and experience to their advantage. It was only when Simon, having
potted his penultimate stripe, played into Des’s hands and fouled. That
was the chance the shrewd pair had been waiting for as Des effortlessly
cleared his remaining balls and finished on an easy black. Victory to the
Bunker!
The Original Pattaya 8-Ball Pool League Table
Standings December 20
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Well low and behold, “who would have thunk it, but we got through
another year?” By the time that the cock crows on the morrow, which will
wake up my pal Wil the Tailor of Pattaya at 5 a.m., it will be a new and
glorious year full of promise, hopes and lots of good things in boxing.
In boxing there’s a good chance that 2005 will be a
year in transition. Some of the old names will be passing from the spotlight
and new ones taking center stage. At least that’s one of the hopes.
There’s just as much chance of some of the same old guys making one last
stab at fame and fortune. The toughest thing in sport is to quit just before
you should. When you hear a retired fighter say he misses the sport and
he’s coming back because he feels the needs to compete, mark it down as
another fighter that wants more money. In some case’s it’s just he wants
some money. In sport, like life, you always remember your first and last
love. For boxers they are one and the same. Whether that’s the case with
“The Imperial One” Lennox Lewis or not only he and his accountant know.
Regardless, I’ll bet a nice tall cold one (#26 walking to “I’ve Been
Thinking About You” would do me) that Lewis will be back in the ring in
’05. He’s making those sounds and remember, “if it walks like a duck,
talks like a duck and looks like a duck...it’s a duck.” Well yes, unless
it’s a midget goose.
England is trying something that’s new to them at least
for “organized” boxing. The smokers and “underground contests” have
been doing this for years. In 2005 Sports Network (Frank Warren) and the
British Amateur Boxing Association agreed to promote professional and
amateur boxing on the same cards. It’s a three-year commitment at this
stage. Some old timers from Southern California may remember that in the
late 40s, 50s and 60s the famous Olympic in Los Angeles used this format for
their weekly shows. The idea has a lot on the plus side. It lowers cost
while allowing the promoter to “promote” his own stable of amateur local
fighters that hopefully will turn into something putting paying customers in
the seats. The first card featuring Olympic Silver Medallist Amir Khan and
Joe Calzaghe defending his useless WBO 168 title. That card’s scheduled
for March.
Boxing really doesn’t get back from holidays until late
January when a couple of fights are of some interests locally and
Internationally. On January 21, WBC Bantam Champ Veeraphol Sahaprom (46-1-2)
takes on Edmund Velayo (9-4). This is a joke for the Champ. His opponent has
lost 4 of his last 6. Most consider Veeraphol the number 2 Bantam in the
world. ‘Bout time he acted like it rather than fight these barely warm
bodies in nothing more than a paid workout. The next fight in Miami Florida
Floyd Mayweather jr. (32-0) steps up in weight, to jr. welter, when he faces
Henry Bruseles (21-2-1). Bruseles is not in Mayweather’s class but it is a
step up in weight and Floyd has hand trouble, which might cause he problems
at the higher weight. On the 29th of January Pongsaklek Wonjongkam (53-2)
defends his WBC Fly belt against Noriyuki Komatsu (19-1-5). The challenger
is coming off a narrow loss to Trash Nakanuma (24-5) who the champ handled
with ease. Another win for the champ.
Got a sad note to end the year from English Joe who use
to provide The Square Ring with information until he went missing.
Last Christmas he went to Amsterdam window shopping for
the Holiday’s and just resurfaced in the UK. He emailed with the passing
of British heavyweight Peter Bates (31-15-4). I once met Mr. Bates at his
tavern in Chesterfield. Very nice guy. In the mid 50s he fought the best out
there. Got as TKO (cuts) over a young Henry Cooper (14-2), got KO’d by
Ingemar Johansson, lost on points to Joe Erskine and Ko’d by Brian London.
Not disgrace, there as all those Heavyweight would be kings with today’s
crop. RIP Peter Bates, he was 71.
There’s one thing that lingers around in boxing “the
boy would I like to see that match.” That’s part of the allure. As 2004
is on it’s last legs promoter Murad Muhammad tries once more to play with
the big boys.
Murad is a guy that loves to take credit for everything
positive in boxing. If he was a rooster he’d being taking bows for the sun
rising. His latest is to offer Kostya Tszyu $14 million (USD) for four
fights. This plan includes Kostya fighting Ricky Hatton in Sydney, then
Oscar, Auturo Gatti and finally Floyd Mayweather jr. “I will make Kostya
Tszyu, his manager and promoter, richer and more famous than they could be
with any other promoter,” said Muhammad.
“There are some huge fights out there for Kostya. Ricky
Hatton, Arturo Gatti, Floyd Mayweather and Oscar, and Kostya deserves to be
paid as one of the greatest fighters in the world.” What a load of hooey!
A fight between Oscar and Kostya would probably bring Tszyu $7-$9 million
with Oscar promoting. There is NO way that Frankie Warren is going to let
Hatton fight outside the confines of the UK. Nice try Murad!
Murad who takes credit for the success of Manny Pacquiao
may lose his marquee fighter. The Philippine Star is reporting that Manny
feels Murad had tried to pull one over on him. Seems Murad gave Manny a
two-fight contract the promoter had wanted the Filipino boxing champion to
sign, including a $1. 75 million paycheck for his probable fight against
Erik Morales sometime in July. “Akala yata nila ay hindi ko babasahin,
akala yata niya (Murad) ay basta ko na lang pipirmahan ung kontrata,”
Pacquiao told reporters. Take that!
Before we get to the point where we tip one to the old
year and a couple to the New Year, we should take care of a little business.
Let’s end the year by passing around some thanks for the folks that assist
in this effort each week. The guy’s at the home office (The Pattaya Mail)
Brendan and Dan whose talents as editors are tested each week, Patrick the
Fighting Flying Frog for keeping me on the somewhat straight and narrow.
Dapper Dave Stewart the Champion of Soi 2 who’s this close to a world
championship. Thai promoter Mr. Songchai jr who always has a few words to
pass along. Wil the Tailor of Pattaya who keeps me in satirical splendor.
Young Chris Jones from the Mother Country who jumped in to fill the void
when England Joe went MIA. Most of all I want to thank the fighters
throughout the world that carry on the brave and noble tradition of the
sport of boxing. It’s that time to tip one or more. “Thank you I
will.”
PH3 Run 1085 - Christmas Run
As Monday was the Christmas run - Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year.
Here’s to everyone getting thru the holidays with All
their appendages. Congratulations to Flying Frog for ascending to being our
Monday leader (Grand Master). While I may still have your attention I’d
like to stir the pot. My question is Why the hell is Free Willy allowed to
Hare Runs?
What a screwed up run on Monday, 2.5 hrs. No checks,
people finishing in the dark and people lost in the dark. Isn’t it the
Hare Raisers job to make sure the people who Hare runs have a clue?
Hare Raiser, maybe you should have a school on this
subject. Remember, run length, 45 minutes to 1 hour and lots of checks. You
know the object of the run is to attempt to keep the pack together. Not have
a ragtag column stumbling in after dark with children lost.
If I was making the decisions I would ban Free Willy from
Haring a run for at least 13 months and ask him to produce his Kindergarten
Diploma.
OK, now that I got to spit on paper, I’ll tell you
about the circle. I won’t bore you with the run details. Ask Free Willy if
you want to know. Great “A” site. Views of the surrounding hills and
after a good rain the sea beyond. I’d like to name a couple of the smart
people. At least on Monday. Spag. Head and Steamy Lump; short cutters!
The circle started off with Flying Frog (GM) icing Free
Willy. Frog asked the circle if it was a good run? Free Willy, rightly so
received Hash Sh*t for the run. Next up Flying Frog called in the visitors.
Welcome to the Pattaya Hash.
Sun Flower made her appearance to conduct the raffle.
I’d buy more tickets if Sun Flower was one of the prizes. She iced Poncho
the P. for mouthing off during the raffle. Use that ice power baby! The Good
R.A. Steamy Lump (and short cutter) brought in Boy George for bring back
lost people and proclaims him Hash Hero. Was this for real? Who did he find?
With several trucks parked with their headlights on as beacons for the lost
souls it reminded me of wagon train when in the old Wild West, they would
circle the wagons to fend off the scalp seekers. Agent Cl*t aka Santa Claus
on ice.
Arseholeo and Free Willy join him and Santa’s present
to Free Willy is a box or rat poison. Well done Santa! Chicken F. took
centre stage to sing us his Christmas Song “We Wish You a Merry
Syphilis”. Included as back up singers were Steamy Lump and Needle D*ck,
aka Doctor and others. The Good RA (and short cutter) Steamy Lump iced
Arseholeo and Needle D*ck. He gave the Doctor an addition to his wardrobe
and Arseholeo gets a Bio Waste mask. Well done!
Flying Frog suspended the circle, as he wanted more
people to go out looking for the lost souls. I kinda lost the plot for a
while there, but according to my notes when the circle reassembled, Flying
Frog brought in the Virgins, all 10 of them. Welcome and come again! Next
into the circle were the returnees including yours truly. V.V. was iced. It
was his wife’s birthday. Flipper on in as it was her 150th run. Also iced
is one of our annual visitors Kiwi. Why you may ask, well he showed up at
Flying Frogs party a day late.
Poncho’s in charge, and brought in the following
couples to sit on the ice: 1) King Yao Yao and Queen Stella: 2) Seaman
Stains and Seaman Swallow: 3) Agent Cl*t and Rottweiler: 4) Needle D*ck and
Wednesday Adams.
Poncho’s question to each of the cracks was what their
boyfriends were giving them for Christmas? 1) Grench-Nothing; 2) Jai Dee-
Money; 3) Sugar Daddy- A House; 4) Grench-Nothing. My notes became
unreadable, let’s see, Santa fled the scene, Chicken F. on ice. I do
remember this! Karamba returned and is a real Hash Hero. He found and
brought back the 2 young girls that were lost in the dark, on the run. Agent
Cl*t, and I quote “Karamba will always find a girl in the dark”
Hash Hymn and off to TQ for hot dogs. It was a good
circle.
On On, Always at your service.
John Sh*thead II
(Does anyone know who the first was?)
Fahprakorb retains Pan Pacific Featherweight title in Pattaya bout
International Boxing Federation #5 Featherweight
Fahprakorb Kratingdaenggym (46-3) floored Alwyn Clerino (10-2) of the
Philippines in Pattaya in a second round KO.
Fahprakorb
Kratingdaenggym celebrates his two round knockout victory against Alwyn
Clerino of the Philippines. Fahprakorb retained his Pan Pacific
Featherweight title at the Jitrapawan College on December 15.
The bout took place on December 15 at a ring specifically
built for the match at the Jitrapawan Buddhist College. Boxing fans,
pugilists, promoters and the entourage crammed around the ring to see the
international event.
From the outset both Fahprakorb and Alwyn went hard at it
with the Filipino boxer landing a sweet glove on the local favorite
Fahprakorb sending him to the canvas for a count of 8 before recovering.
After learning from the first round Fahprakorb came out the corner with a
flurry of blows returning the favor to Alwyn, knocking him out past the
count of 10.
Following the relatively short bout, Fahprakorb’s
promoter and manager, Ekarat ‘Jimmy’ Chaichotechuang said, “I’m
happy to see Fahprakorb retain his belt. I was very surprised in the first
round and though we had almost lost it in the first round because Clerino is
strong fighter. He trains with Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquaio. It has been a
good learning exercise for us today.”
Jimmy went on to say that Fahprakorb will now train for his next bout
scheduled next year. He added that at sometime in the middle of 2005
Fahprakorb hopes to take a shot at the world title, which is currently held
by Juan Manuel Margrez of Mexico.
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