|
Barry Winton courts the zone,
wins 6th annual Wayne Tischbern Memorial
Injects enthusiasm into top of the table
Barry Winton has been on a tear of late, winning now two
low gross, high Stableford point prizes on the trot. The second earned him
the championship trophy for this year’s first major, the Wayne Tischbern
Memorial 2005, organized by Stephen Beard through the IPGC and run out of
The Haven. Barry shot 75 off the stick, earning 38 Stableford points and the
spoils of victory.
 Barry
Winton won best gross and the Wayne Tischbern Memorial 2005 overall
championship. He is shown here receiving his two trophies from Stephen Beard
(left) and Richard Livingston (right).
This year’s tournament was played Friday, January 7, on
the Lakes and Mountain nines at Phoenix Country Club. With the rough cut to
reasonable levels, the course’s defense is now its quick, but true greens.
A stiff afternoon breeze kicked up for a while, which also helped keep
Stableford scores low.
 Division
1 winner Mark Joshua (center) receives his trophy from Stephen Beard (left)
and Richard Livingston (right).
Mark Joshua won the first division with 37 Stableford
points, Norman Robinson won division two, also with 37 points, and Roar
Berger won third division with 38 points. When the winning scores in all
divisions hovered right around par, as they did this year, it shows that the
handicap system is holding up nicely to the test of time.
There was never any danger of the tournament’s
namesake, Wayne Tischbern shooting par or better, unless of course he was
given a special 50+ handicap. But Wayne wasn’t known for his golfing
prowess. He was, instead, for many years a cornerstone of the Pattaya
community; not an exemplary citizen by any means, but one of the few true
characters one meets in a lifetime.
 Division
2 winner Norman Robinson (center) receives his trophy from Stephen Beard
(left) and Richard Livingston (right).
Long time friend Howie Reed described Wayne, and what he
meant to Pattaya, quite succinctly, “Some in the ex-pat community may not
have met or had the pleasure of being around a genuine original Wayne. He
grew up in San Francisco, which had a very large Chinese population. That
population was so important that they had their own phone system, no phone
book and operators that knew every name and number. Wayne was the ‘San
Francisco Chinese Phone System’ of Pattaya. He never made a note for
reference but could at the drop of a question tell you who was in town, how
long they would be staying and where, how much beer was consumed at the last
Hash, and any information needed about old Teelocks from previous visits. He
also had at his fingertips the standings in all American professional sports
leagues, the odds on the next Presidential elections with opinions, the
latest world news along with opinions on where to buy anything the tourist
wanted. This information was only provided for his 10,000 or so close
friends. It never felt like being in Thailand until driven down Soi Post
Office and waving a hand at the ‘A’ table Wayne presided over. If he
acknowledged you with either a nod of the head or a glance, not only were
you back home but all Pattaya knew it, when you arrived and where you were
staying. Sadly, both Wayne and the San Francisco Chinese phone system are
gone and will never be replaced. Today it’s all computers. Modern
computers had nothing on Wayne Tischbern, though. He stored more information
and with no ‘pop ups’.”
 Division
3 winner Roar Berger (center) receives his trophy from Stephen Beard (left)
and Richard Livingston (right).
Wayne did enjoy a round of golf with his fellow Dream
Team mates, and it’s no wonder that the celebration of his birthday with a
round of golf grew to become one of the majors on the Pattaya golf calendar.
With Wayne’s untimely passing, now 6 years ago, his
friend and business partner Stephen Beard has kept the tradition going,
keeping Wayne’s memory fresh in everyone’s minds. Year after year,
Stephen has done an exemplary job organizing and running this tournament,
and this year, despite being slowed somewhat by his physical
“challenges”, was no exception.
 Ladies
winner Oili Henning (center) receives her trophy from Stephen Beard (left)
and Richard Livingston (right).
Stephen was once again ably assisted by PGA teaching
professional Richard Livingston, who this year pulled quadruple duty,
signing people in, marshalling the course, gathering the scorecards,
assisted by Roy, and emceeing the awards presentation party back at The
Haven after the event. Once again this year, Lamyai and her staff at The
Haven put on a buffet fit for kings.
Results
Champion
Barry Winton, 38 pts
Best Gross
Barry Winton, 75
Division winners
1st Div: Mark Joshua, 37 points
2nd Div: Norman Robinson, 37 points
3rd Div: Roar Berger, 38 points
Ladies: Oili Henning, 28 points
Runners up
1st Div: Tom McManus, 36 points
2nd Div: Norman Isherwood, 34 points (c/b16 from Tom Breslin)
3rd Div: Ron Dalen, 37 pts (c/b19 from Peter Johansson)
Ladies: Trudy Chadbourn, 25 pts.
3rd Place
1st Div: Perry McNeeley, 35 pts c/b9 19;Neil Stevenson 18; Chris
Davisson 17
2nd Div: Roy Thorton, 32 points
3rd Div: Ingi Magnfredsson, 37 points
Near Pins
Lakes #2: Roar Berger. Lakes #7: Bobby Collis. Mountain #4: Ramus
Jensen. Mountain #8: Steve Wallace.
Long drives
Ladies: Oili Henning.
Men: Immu Korvenmaa
K4 gives ‘em what for
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s
Sunday
Jan. 2
Green Valley
Stableford
1st A Flight: Mark “Woody” Sherwood, 39 pts
2nd A Flight: Ian Ashenden, 37 pts
3rd A Flight: Bob Patterson, 34 pts
1st B Flight: Robert Sellick, 37 pts
2nd B Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 37 pts
3rd B Flight Jim Munns, 35 pts
1st C Flight: Bob Lindborg, 40 pts
2nd C Flight: Steve Mulberry, 34 pts
3rd C Flight: Mike Frizzell, 34 pts
1st D Flight: Brian Cooper, 34 pts
2nd D Flight: Jez Lees, 34 pts
3rd D Flight: Alec Hoare, 33 pts
Near Pins: #5 Jim Wickstrom; #8 Lee Adelly; #13 & 16 Steve Mascari
Every time this scribe picks up the scorecards for
Sunday’s comp at Green Valley he checks quickly to see how the Guru of
Green Valley, Bob Lindborg did. He didn’t disappoint, as he had a C
Flight winning best on the day 40 points. That left a modest dogfight for
second between Steve “Around the” Mulberry “Bush” and Mike
“Frazzled” Frizzell, with the former winning out on the math.
This scribe tried to wrench A Flight’s first place
from one of the “Caddy to the Stars” with a little typographical and
award it to local teaching pro Ian Ashenden. Fortunately the truth won
out, the clumsy fingers of this scribe were exposed and the top spot in A
went to the rightful owner, “Woody” Sherwood. Ian Ashenden, innocent
in all this skullduggery, slipped to second and Bob “Cheesehead”
Patterson scrambled to third with 34 points, a score equal or better than
five placeholders on the day.
Robert Sellick, OBE, pronouncing the English
educational system superior to that of America’s, as he did some fast
figuring to demote Joe “I’m in the” Mooneyham to second in B Flight.
And out of the Fogg was the good Capt. himself to pick up his beer dole
with third.
Brian Cooper slipped through a small opening,
relatively speaking, that is, to make his 34 points better than Jez “The
Professor” Lees in D Flight. Alec Hoare had the distinction of having
the worst baht-winning score on the day, 33 points.
The big field supported four Near Pins on the day and
the President garnered two of them.
Monday Jan. 3
Burapha - A & B
Blue or White Tees
Stableford
1st Blue Flight: Graham Buckingham, 41 pts
2nd Blue Flight: Jonathan Tsao, 39 pts
3rd Blue Flight: Rocky Qin, 39 pts
1st White A Flight: Richard Garland, 44 pts
2nd White A Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 42 pts
3rd White A Flight: John Emmerson, 40 pts
1st White B Flight: Ken Kutzing, 45 pts
2nd White B Flight: Brian Cooper, 44 pts
3rd White B Flight: Mike Craighead, 41 pts
Near Pins: # A6 Pete Murray; # B6 Simon Philbrook
It wasn’t a dramatic storyline week, so the search
for our title boy was a little strained but when it was all decanted, K4
took the nod as his first of two victories on the week was a fine 45
points in the B Flight of the “just a little bit short” White Tees of
the “Old Course” at Burapha. Yesterday’s winner, Brian Cooper
continued his improvement with a nearly as efficient 44, enough to lead
another 40+ pointer, Mike the Mechanic by three.
The A Flight of the same configuration was led by a not
surprising trio that would have been comfortable at any distance. Richard
Garland, who continues to add Pattaya triumphs to his lengthy list of
Costa Rican accomplishments, led “I’m in the” by a couple, with the
Golf Manager another two adrift. All six placeholders of the White Flights
were in the 40’s. Maybe it is a tad easy from up there.
Slight of stature but clearly up to the task, Graham
Buckingham notched a what must be considered a best on the day 41 points
in the testosterone Blue Flight. Two mates, Jonathan Tsao and Rochy Qin,
took a break for the travails of working in China to lock up an amiable
count back at 39 points, to round out the balance of the Blue Flight.
Wednesday Jan. 5
Century Bangchang
White Tees
Stableford
1st A Flight: Bob Patterson, 36 pts
2nd A Flight: Joe Mooneyham, 35 pts
3rd A Flight: Bill Collis, 35 pts
1st B Flight: Ken Kutzing, 35 pts
2nd B Flight: Jens Schunemann, 35 pts
3rd B Flight: Mike Craighead, 33 pts
A field comprised of as many sex tourists as there were
golfers set out for neighboring Century Bangchang to get through the
morning. The Cheesehead took man of the match honors and first place in A
Flight, as North Carolina Joe and Dhaka Bill squared off for second. Bill
waived off the count back citing that he had to retire to the social area
of Bangchang to begin a string of short times. It should be noted that
this was Joe’s third silver medal in as many days. How do you keep a guy
like that out of the title?
Well, I’m afraid a second victory in two days is how.
That is what K4 did as he took a four-way count back to claim first in B
Flight. Jens Schunemann and The Mechanic may have experienced some
disappointment as they slipped to second and third, respectively, but it
did not match that of Wendy Hollingsworth, one of the few honest women on
the day, as she slipped completely off the payroll.
Friday Jan. 7
Eastern Star
White Tees
Stroke/Medal
1st A Flight: Jack Spencer, net 67
2nd A Flight: Bill Collis, net 71
3rd A Flight: Richard Garland, net 73
4th A Flight: Joe Mooneyham, net 74
1st B Flight: Chas Li, net 70
2nd B Flight: Andreas Grunenberg, net 71
3rd B Flight: Graham Buckingham, net 72
4th B Flight: Bert Griffin, net 77
Near Pins: # 3 Lucky Draw; # 17 Bob Patterson
Gen. Jack Spencer put the hurt on A Flight and the
field with a sparkling net 67 at the Trent Jones, Jr. “OB left, water
right” course. That left the Fishman of Dhaka second with a one under
net of 71. Carmates Richard Garland and Joe Mooneyham rounded out the
four-place A Flight. Is it too late to put Joe in the title? Come on, four
places in four days. Is there an unwritten bias to having no wins on your
weekly resume? Could be hell to pay!
Chas Li led the United Nations B flight edging Andreas Grunenberg, who
edged the unassuming Graham Buckingham, who edged Ballybunion’s Bert
Griffin. Well maybe not “edged”.
Tony scampers to
the top at Plutaluang
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday January 3
Plutaluang Stableford
The Royal Thai Navy South and East layouts were host for
a stableford competition in Two Flights, A Flight 0 to 18, and B Flight 19
and up. The course on the day was dry due to drought conditions, but quite
playable with 16 players shooting their handicap or better.
 Campbell
Johnson
Tony Scamber took the A Flight with an amazing 43 points,
Kris Helgasson was second with 39 points with Monte Sykes in third with 38
points beating Alan Sullivan into fourth on countback.
Old Steady Arthur Bailey took the B Flight with a fine 43
points ahead of Aussie Campbell Johns in second with 40 points, Aussie Barry
Kerr third with 39 points and Kenny Chung in Fourth with 38 points.
 Arthur
Bailey
Near Pins: S4 Barry Kerr; S7 Dave Richardson; E2 Alan
Lord; E5 Monica Arne.
Long Putts: S9 Koji Yamada and E5 Monte Sykes
Thursday January 6
Treasure Hill Stableford
There is always something a little special about Treasure
Hill, it seems so peaceful and quiet here it is most therapeutic. Stand on
the first tee, get the ‘Rabble’ behind you to be quiet and the
experience starts. Walk down the first fairway and all you can hear is the
sounds of the birds and of course the curses of the other golfers.
 Jeff
Wylie
On this day we had a stiff breeze to contend with, and it
is no big surprise that hole number 2, a par 3 of over 200 yards into a
stiff wind, becomes the first real test of the day. Still the fairways are
fine, if dry, and the greens are fast and tricky, and all this at a very
good price.
This is a tough course and very rarely gets beaten by a
lot, and on this day it more than held its own, with a few golfers beating
their handicap, but most struggling.
In the A Flight, 0 to 19, the winner was, and here we
have a three way countback on 38 points, Aussie Jeff Wylie, with Serge
Straeten in second and Ted Morris in Third.
 Tony
Scamber sailed in with 43 points to win the A Flight.
In the B Flight, 20 upwards, the winner was Aussie
Campbell Johnson with 38 points, with Alan Lord in second with 36 points and
Graham Buckingham in third with 35 points.
There is a suggestion we change the name to The Aussie
Benevolent Society. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: #2 Tony Scamber; #6 David Thomas #13; Don
Richardson; #17 Jeff Wylie.
Long Putts: #9 Bill Plath; #18 Jeff Wylie
Stay low with a mis-fit
Pattaya BridgeClub
Jomtien 8-Ball Pool League Table
PSC golf with The Bunker
Treasure Hills
Monday January 3rd Treasure Hills Golf Course was the
venue for a hastily re-arranged Medal competition due to Century Chonburi
Golf Course being over booked. Great credit goes to the management and
staff at Treasure Hills for coping with an unexpected large group of
golfers turning up unannounced.
 “Steady”
George Redgewell (left) with his December “Golfer of the Month” Trophy
and voucher.
The field was split into two Divisions and in Division
A, John Hughes led the way returning a net 72 to take first prize, runner
up spot went to Michael Dige with net 75 and third place was taken by John
King with Net 76.
In Division B Curtis Hessler took the honours with the
best round of the day with a net 71 ahead of George May with net 72 and a
three way tie for third place between David Johnson, Jim Wooler and Mick
Ramshaw all with net 78. Near the pins prizes were awarded to Les Hall,
Brian Wilkins, Mikael Andersson and Miilo Olonen.
Century Ban Chang
The January 5th saw The Boys from The Bunker play
Century Ban Chang in a Stableford competition in two groups as usual. In
Division A Mick Ramshaw claimed first place with 34 stableford points with
Peter Habgood and Geoff Parker in joint second with a Stableford score of
32.
In Division B George Redgewell fired a magnificent score
of 43 Stableford points a full 6 points ahead of George May in second place
with 37 points with Les Hall coming third with 33 points. Near the pins
prizes went to Bob Lawrence, Mark Gooch, Peter Habgood and Les Hall.
Back at The Bunker Bar George Redgewell was presented
with a Trophy and a voucher for Dinner for Two at The Bunker for winning
The Golfer of the Month for December, George clinched first place by
winning on the last game of the month at Eastern Star the previous week -
Well Done George!
Royal Thai Navy Golf Course - Plutaluang.
Friday January 7th, The Navy golf course at Sattahip was
the venue for The Bunker Boys to play a Medal competition. Playing in two
Divisions again George May returned a level par 72 to win first prize in
Division A followed by Geoff Parker with net 76 and a three way tie for
third place between P.J. Redmond, John King and Alan Sullivan. In Division
B best score of the day was David Johnson’s net 69 which took first prize
ahead of Jimmy Smiles’ level par 72 and Brian Wilkins in third place with
Net 76.
Near the pins prizes went to Brian Wilkins, Frank
Pilkington, Frank Baker and Jim Payne.
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). 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
Devonshire destroys White Rose!
The Original Pattaya Pool League - January 3
Group A: Devonshire Bar 8 - 1 White Rose
Tony’s win in the first frame against Liam was the first
nail in the coffin for White Rose this evening. He began with a spot off the
break soon followed by two more. Liam retaliated with 2 stripes down. There was
a chance for Liam as he sank another two. But Tony played a safety next and
forced Liam to foul. On his first visit Tony cleared the rest of his spots but
snookered himself on the black. He escaped and still had one shot left and won
with a clean pot. Devonshire 1-0.
Smiles all
round from both teams after an enjoyable evening.
The second game saw “Hard Hitting” Frank (White Rose) get
to the black first. Frank slammed ahead early in the game after a foul from Dave
with three stripes down but then he too fouled. Dave picked off a few and then
played safe. However, it was not enough and with the black near a corner pocket,
Frank had lined himself up with a long, straight pot the length of the table to
victory. Then disaster struck... down went the black and the white followed
through. Devonshire 2-0.
It was quickly becoming apparent to the away team that this
half size snooker table was not as easy to play on as the US-style one back in
White Rose Bar! Nigel found this out as well when he faced Norman in the next
frame. Although Nigel carefully examined every ball before playing it, the sheer
power of his shots that followed went against him. One foul was all Norman
needed to pick off his remaining balls to victory. Devonshire 3-0.
Jan pots a
straight black to win the second doubles game.
It was now time for Boss Kev (one of the longest surviving
players in the history of the League) to face “Dipster” aka Dibby. Kev won
the toss and graciously offered the break away. Was there something the captain
knew about this table that everyone else didn’t? Kev played safely and
consistently but Dibby was playing some fancy shots along the way. He even
snookered Kev twice but when he blasted a ball down with the white going in-off,
this was all Kev needed to complete the game. Devonshire 4-0.
Thai Lady Jan faced “Captain Blobber” John (White Rose).
The pressure was certainly on the away team now as if they were to lose this
frame that would mean the match lost. Jan, who has shamed many a farang player
in the past with her pool skills was smiling with confidence. But Blobber was
not easily dazzled by her beauty and freshly washed long dark hair. After an
early foul from Jan, Blobber edged ahead with two stripes down. He then
proceeded to pick off his remaining balls until only the black was left,
loitering over a corner pocket. Jan did manage to sink 3 balls but left the
white out in the open for an easy finish by Blobber. White Rose 1-4! There was
still a chance, if only the rest of the team could turn down the power of their
shots!
It was Jimmy who comfortably took the winning frame of the
match for Devonshire when he played “Smudger” aka Nick. Jimmy was in control
all the way and swept round the table cleanly dispatching balls. He potted his
last three spots and made it look all too easy when he lined himself up on the
black. Devonshire 5-1.
After everyone had devoured several dishes of piping hot stew
the doubles games got under way. Frank and Blobber put up a hard fight against
Norman and Tony in the first frame but the result was still the same: another
win for the home team. The second frame saw Jimmy and Jan beat Liam and Dibby as
well, with Jan finishing with a long straight pot on the black. The last frame
however, with Dave and Kev against Nigel and Nick, was the closest. Nick’s
confidence was high as he potted four stripes in quick succession. Kev quickly
sank 3 spots and soon both teams were down to their last ball before the black.
Then, at the crucial moment, Nick potted his last ball and went in-off. Dave
calmly stepped up and used his two shots wisely and seized the final game.
Victory to Devonshire 8-1!
When the two captains were interviewed afterwards, Kev said
“I can’t believe it. That’s the second game we’ve won in a row. We’re
making a last minute comeback!” John, with a philosophical grin on his face
commented, “You win some, you lose some. I’m just happy to have stuffed
Sportsman and P. Galore earlier in the season, who are the big boys in the
League!”
It just goes to show anything can happen on a Monday night and with only four
matches remaining in the season the heat is really on as every game counts more
than ever.
P.S.C. Golf From McAllisters Bar and Grill
Bang Chang, Friday January 7 - Well for once I had a bad day
on a golf course. The day was fine and the weather pretty perfect as we teed
off. The course was in fine condition and we started last in line as 30+ of
our fellow players streamed ahead. Then we waited, and waited, and waited
for every shot. Sat in the cart which I had rented, along with Bob Benda, I
was not too upset at first as the cart went so slow it gave us a little time
to get to our ball, but not enough. Slowly, not a good word, the cart got
slower, until a passing Marshal was stopped and asked to bring us another.
But we still more than kept up with play, and a new cart did not turn up.
Finally we played the second par 3 and got to the top of the slope leading
down, then up, to the drink stop. Taking a run at it I got halfway up the
other side and no amount of pushing by Bob and the caddies would make it go
any further. So I threw a tantrum, cursed the golf gods, left the cart there
and finished the par three.
 Winners
with Staff back at McAllisters after a long round.
Coming back to the cart, I had a brain storm, turning the
cart around and with all pushing I manage to get it out to the right, and
shortly after a new cart arrived. Whilst this cart may have been a thing of
joy, and it was a really good cart I could fly up and down hills in it, and
did, a 5 1/2 hour round in a two ball is, nearly, best forgotten, apart from
the fact I was so incensed, I started to smack the ball a country mile. I am
informed that Tully also started to hit the ball a long way, maybe for a
similar reason.
Hours and hours later we sat at the clubhouse killing a
cold one and talked to Doug Powell. Doug had lost his keys and as such had
to get his wife to bring his spare keys from Pattaya. We will not tell you
where his keys were.
Finally we got to McAllisters, but not until a search
party, via phone, had been sent for us. Then all became peace, quiet and
once again all was well with the World. Cold beer and excellent food puts a
smile on anyone’s face. So to the results and they were pretty average,
and to put a smile on my face my temper tantrum had so improved my golf I
managed to finish in a place, so ‘Roll On’ next week.
Winner: Bill Knight 36 points; Second: Bob Laurence 35 points on
countback; Third: Derek Brook 35 points on countback and Fourth: Paul Kraft
with 35 points. T.T.F.N.
Mark Cooper enjoys his final week
IPGC TAGGS golf from The Haven
Monday Jan. 2
Burapha A & B
Medal White Tees
Division 1
1st Randall Penrod, net 66
2nd Joonas Hinkkanen, net 68
3rd Norman Isherwood, net 70
Division 2
1st Mark Cooper, net 68
2nd Tom Sathrum, net 69
3rd John Teague, net 70
Despite the day being a public holiday, Burapha kindly
reduced their holiday rates for our competition and were well rewarded with
a large Haven turnout. The course was in excellent condition as usual and
with little or no wind, scores were generally good.
Randall Penrod led the way home in division 1 finishing
with two birdies for a superb 78 gross, which will surely see a further
reduction in his 12 handicap. Leading the chasing pack was the young Finnish
player, Joonas Hinkkanen who shot a solid 69 gross off his 1 handicap. In
division 2, Mark Cooper was well rewarded for his practice sessions and
tutorials by Richard Livingston, shooting an excellent 68 net and breaking
90 for the first time in Thailand. Hard on his heels were Tom Sathrum and
John Teague who also broke their handicaps. As might have been expected, 2s
were plentiful and the pool was shared by Randall Penrod, Barry Chadbourn,
Immu Korvennmaa, Ken Moss, Rainer Helling, Karl Holm & Martin Grimoldby.
Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA professional, welcomed David Wishart, Immu Korvenmaa and Joonas
Hinkannen and welcomed back Doug & Wendy Hollingworth, Pekka Raiha, Ken
Moss & Richard Terbszkiewic
Wednesday Jan. 4
Eastern Star
Stableford
1st Joe McArdle, 41 pts
2nd Norman Isherwood, 38 pts
3rd Paul Taylor, 37 pts
4th Arthur Hancock, 36 pts
A more subdued turnout for the popular trip down to Bang
Chang, but well worthwhile as the course was in really good condition.
Making the most of his rare visit to the Haven, Joe
McArdle romped home with a super 41 points to easily take the honours from
Norman, Paul and local member, Arthur Hancock. Just losing out on countback
was in form Mark Cooper, with another creditable performance to round off
his Thailand trip.
In the 2s competition, Karl Holm scooped the pool and so left the Haven
with a nice fat wallet! Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston
welcomed Steve Dunlop and David Drinkwater.
The Rover’s Return to the Top at Ban Chang
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
Finding a course which is empty of Asian tourists at this
time of the year is always a problem, but Century Bang Chang fitted the bill
perfectly on Tuesday, January 4 for thirty or so players from the OK Corral,
who turned up for their weekly medal tournament. The day was fine but the
course was a little “scruffy” with hairy and dry fairways and only
average greens. However the two flights, cut at seventeen and under, set
about their task in resolute fashion.
In division two Roy Mitchell continued to find his form
and shared third place with Chris Walsh on net 77, one behind Brian Bellis
who shot net 76. Norm Robinson, playing off eighteen, showed he had not
suffered the New Year to excess and ran away with the divisional title,
recording net 70, two under par. In the top flight Steve Nowell, recently
returned from a European Christmas, found he had acclimatised well and his
net 74 gave him third place, one behind runner-up Jack Spencer on net 73.
Lancashire Lad, Wilf Latham, has suffered from a loss of
form more than most during the past twelve months, but he put all this
behind him on this occasion, recording a one-under par 71 to take the
day’s main honours. Everyone shared his joy at seeing him atop the table
again. There were three shares of the birdie two pot with Steve Nowell,
Roger Pidcock and Chris Hunter being the lucky gentlemen, whilst pity Angus
MacFarlane whose nifty new pink balls may make them perfect to spot from
distance, but when his drive failed to reach the Ladies’ Tee colour was
not essential! Mr. Loy dutifully presented him with the Banana Booby, to
much mirth. It was a day to remember for Wilf Latham, of course, and our
hopes are that it will make the perfect start to the New Year.
Pre-Major woes at Chonburi
Maybe it was because January 6th was the eve of a
“major” event, maybe it was the early start, maybe it was the long haul,
maybe it was the prospect of a cold shower on a seasonally cool day.
Whatever the reason, the Bunker Boys from the OK Corral
toiled for four and a half long hours at Century Chonburi in an attempt to
inject some spark into their weekly stableford competition. After nine holes
the golfers had lost an average of four shots each to the course with only
two maintaining their par status. In division two Barry Pethig’s score of
32 points was a reflection of his concentration but he was jostled into
second place by Tony Shephard whose 33 points proved to be the second best
score on the day.
In division one Mark Joshua and Norm Robinson, a winner
two days previously, finished level on 34 points to share the major honours.
John Cunningham and David Lightfoot took some consolation in the form of a
share of the twos pot, and for the latter his pockets bulged further with
the award of the famed Bananas for his disastrous low total of 18 points,
four of them coming on the long par-three seventeenth! Hmm, not the best of
days for the Bunker Boys!
‘JIGS’ AT Jameson’s -the new Irish Pub
Mike Franklin
Welcome to Jameson’s and Jameson’s International Golf Society.
After more than 6 years organizing golf for Delaney’s
and Shenanigans, I felt it was time to move on and experience the excitement
of a brand new pub being opened, and continue the association with Kim,
Jameson’s landlord, by tailoring a new Golf Society, Jameson’s
International Golf Society, aptly abbreviated to ‘JIGS’.
The detailed set-up for Jameson’s International Golf
Society, together with a Membership Application form for Free Life
Membership, can be accessed on Jameson’s website at
www.jamesons-pattaya.com. The form can be opened and completed, saved and
printed for handing in with two small (3x 4 cms) photos. Member Cards will
be issued in due course and membership entitles you to 10% discount on the
already attractive food and drink prices. Applicants submitting the form by
the official Grand Opening on Friday January 21st will be warmly welcomed at
Jameson’s with a Free Irish Coffee.
The first JIGS golf outing will be at Eastern Star on
Wednesday February 2nd for a Pairs Scramble. Thereafter fixtures will be on
alternate Wednesdays at selected courses, with a combination of Scramble
formats and Better Ball, and regular handicap qualifying competitions such
as Singles and Pairs Combined Stableford.
Seasonal tournaments will celebrate occasions such as St.
Patrick’s Day and my ‘Silly 70th’ on April 1st. There will be a team
scramble ‘major’ for the ‘Jameson’s Jug’, the Jameson’s Men’s
& Ladies Open’ and at Christmas, the Jigs ‘Jinger Bens’ Novelty
Scramble. The ladies will have their own Jameson’s Ladies Championship,
and a ‘Thailand vs. The Rest of the World’ Ladies Match is being
considered.
The soft opening of Jameson’s is on Monday January
17th. The construction and fitting-out progress can also be seen at
www.jamesons-pattaya.com and is updated daily. The web page tells you all
about the features and layout of the pub and there is a good location map to
get you to the rather spacious car park.
Monday January 17th is the ‘soft’ opening and Friday
January 21st is the official Grand Opening. Wednesday February 2nd heralds
the inaugural JIGS golf competition at Eastern Star.
A charitable opening
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday January 4th Century
Chonburi Stableford
Bert
presented 18,500 baht to Bernie Tuppin (back left), PSC charity chairman for the
tsunami appeal. Bob Noble (front left) ran the auction to help raise the funds.
A great start to the morning with a fine breakfast at
Bert’s, and a fine turnout as today was to be the official opening at Tropical
Bert’s and Bert had promised a ‘Pig on a Spit’ to tempt the golfers on
their return. It had also been decided that an auction would take place on their
return and the proceeds would go to the Tsunami Appeal put forward by Pattaya
Sports Club. A fine gesture by Bert and Bob!
 (l-r)
Winner Bob Lawrence with Bob Noble and ‘Tropical’ Bert.
To the course, and it was in fine condition with fine if dry
fairways and hard fast greens. Fine day out and a quick return to the bar where
it was decided all fees would be donated to the appeal.
So to the food, and Bert was good to his word, as a ‘Pig on
a Spit’ duly turned up and all tucked in, the sound of contentment and cold
beers being consumed filled the night.
 Richard
(center back) shows off his buying spree.
Then the Winner was declared and Bob Lawrence was
congratulated by all.
So to the highlight of the night, when items donated by the
organizers were raffled for the Tsunami appeal. The Master of Ceremonies, Bob
Noble raised 1,900 Baht for a bottle of Red Wine, and the money gradually rose
until Bob auctioned some of Bert’s Golf Prizes. These were bought by Richard
Price who just happened to walk in looking to go fishing. Richard spent nearly
9,000 Baht on the night
With the night over, Bernie Tuppin, PSC Charity Chairman received a Cheque
for 18,500 Baht for the appeal, and a very satisfying opening night came to an
end. T.T.F.N.
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
Happy New Year - Good for some, bad for others. Opening the New Year with a bang
was Paul Kraft. After struggling for months, Paul finally hit his stride and
came in with a blistering 44 points. He barely passed John Jacinto who came in
with 43 points to take second. It was a disappointment for John as it would have
been his first win.
 Paul
Donahue (left) last week’s cellar dweller and winner Paul Kraft.
Coming in further back was Dick Caggiano and John Oakes. Both
played well but could not keep up with the front-runners.
Heading into the cellar this week was Paul Donohue. Now back from Saudi, he
is giving Tully a hard time fighting for the bottom spot. Paul had a firm hold
of the bag as he slipped into the cellar with 15 big points. Tully who normally
holds the bag as others pass him was smiling as he came in with 19 points. Just
back of Tully was Bill Key and Rollie Weese. They were well out of the cellar
coming in with 21 points each. It was a great opening day for the New Year.
Cafe Kronborg moves into 4th place and VFW jumps into 6th
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Cafe Kronborg led by Sven who rolled a 203 game and 524 series to take
all four points from House of the Golden Coin and jumped from 6th place to
4th. Ooy, House of the Golden Coin bowled one of the three games over 500 on
the day knocking down 507 pins.
 Sven,
the only 200 bowler of the day
In another day when the lanes at PS Bowl were not properly oiled it was
really tough bowling for everyone except Sven. First place Brother D took
three points from second place Three Sisters. Third place Domicil took four
points from Friends. Cafe Ole dropped one place in the standings after
splitting their series against Shenanigans. Last place Q Cars won their
match four point to nil against Jack & Tar as Antero bowling for Q Cars
managed to get his even 500 series. VFW Post 9876 managed to get into red
figures as they took three points from Mai’s Thai Restaurant.
Darts players welcome
to compete in Thaioil-BDL-Thaimatic Charity Darts Open
The Bangkok Darts League (BDL) have joined hands with
Thaioil and Thaimatic Electronic Darts to stage a two-day charity open on
Jan 22-23 at the Thaioil Sports Club in Sriracha.
Donation s of not less than 10,000 baht will be given to
the Pattaya School for the Blind and Orphans in Naklua.
Beer Chang and Blue Eagle Scotch whisky are supporting
the event with the trophies.
State enterprises and teams from Samui, Chiang Mai,
Pattaya and Bangkok will be participating at the “Thaioil-BDL-Thaimatic
Charity Darts Open”.
All darts players can enter for 300 baht fee per player
for each event.
On Saturday, Jan 22, at 10 a.m. registration opens for
the Open, Fixed Doubles to be played on a 501 Best-of-3 legs Round Robin,
followed by best-of-5 legs knockout.
For further details and contact Bernd Fischer on Tel: 09
545 9440.
Wednesday Quiz League
Sunday Quiz League
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
I was almost going to bet a beverage of my choice that we
would get through the month of January without a “Jesse’ James” taking
place. I would have lost. Joe Koizumi reports from ringside. “Game and
gory Katsushige Kawashima (28-3, 18 KO’s), 115, barely kept his WBC
115-pound belt as he eked out a split but popular decision over previously
unbeaten top contender Jose Navarro (21-1, 9 KOs), 114.5, over twelve
hard-fought rounds on Monday night in Tokyo, Japan. The official tallies
were as follows: Gelasio Perez (Mexico) 115-114, Noparat Sricharoen
(Thailand) 115-113, both for Kawashima, and William Boodhoo (Canada) 120-109
for Navarro. Their difference of the styles might account for this big
discrepancy on the score sheets.” Couple of points here! First of course
it was popular as the Japanese champion kept his title. Secondly, “Their
difference of styles might account for the big discrepancy o the score
sheets.” True. And the fact that a rooster crows every morning “might”
cause the sun to rise but I doubt it. Knowing what a gentleman Mr. K is what
he’s really saying is “Horsedoodle.”
Or maybe not! A few days later Joe K wrote, “Why
didn’t Boodhoo (the Canadian judge) give even a round to Kawashima?
Probably he scored on a different scoring standard than the professional
boxing standard. It wasn’t an amateur contest but a professional bout with
the world title at stake. In the long history of Japan that has celebrated
some 400 world title bouts, there has been definitely no judge who produced
such a big and hot controversy among our journalists as Boodhoo.” Must not
have the “know it all,” never pay for anything journalist upset.
One not so diplomatic is Lou DiBella the promoter of
challenger Jose Navarro, “I haven’t even written 2005 on a piece of
paper yet, and the filth of this business has already sullied this year. He
(Navarro) did everything but knock the champion out, and was robbed. This
travesty will go unnoticed by many who should notice. Still, the judging in
boxing and inherent organizational biases continue to diminish and help
destroy a potentially great sport. Most importantly, the damage done, both
emotionally and financially, to a kid like Jose is immeasurable. The WBC
should take a good look at itself and fix the situation. Jose and Mauricio
Sulaiman say that they stand for justice. Now is their time to prove it,”
said DiBella. Yo, Lou don’t hold your breath.
Writing of title shots the last time that PABA feather
champ Saohin Srithai Condo (45-11, 30 KOs) had a title shot was 1999. He
lost a UD (111-117 all around) to then WBA Champ Paulie Ayala. No disgrace
in that. Ayala is one of the better fighters of the last 10 years. That and
the fact that the fight was in Ayalia’s hometown of San Antonio make
Srithai’s performance more notable. Unlike many Thai fighters Srithai uses
the motto, “have gloves will travel.” His stock rose recently when he
destroyed Alfren Bulala at Mahanakorn University in Bangkok. Srithai
“dropped his Filipino foe three times, in round 4, round 8 and the last
time with a right hook at the belly, scoring a TKO at 2:33 of round 11.”
This guy Bulala (10-11) in one interesting dude. Try this on for size. Back
in 2001 with a record of 7-3-1 he Ko’d the current WBC Asian Super Fly
Champion Medgoen Singsurat now 38-3. Granted when they fought a rematch in
2003 Singsurat took a unanimous decision. In 2002 Bulal lost a UD (119-109 ,
119-108, 118-109) to WBF champ Samson Dutch Boy Gym who at the time was
42-0. Dutch Boy Gym has retired so he’s still at 42-0 and Bulal has lost 8
on the trot.
While Srithai’s win may not bring a title shot, WBA#2
Poonsawat Kratingdaeng (20-0) may have one in the future. On the same card
he stopped Filipino Jack Verano in 3. Kratingdaeng (20-0, 15 KO’s) would
now like a title fight against the winner of Zarate vs. Sidorenko for the
WBA 118lb. Good thinking as it keeps him away from the cream of the Bantam
crop in Veeraphol Sahaprom (46-1), Ratanachai Sor Vorapin(60-8) and Rafael
Marquez (33-3). It should also be noted that Poonsawat’s opponents have
been a “little suspect.” The last, Jack Verno, has a record of 5-4 but
is 2-4-1 in his last 7. Wash out!
Getting ready for his mandatory WBO Featherweight title
defense Champion Scott Harrison (23-2-1) has indicated that next he wants
Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera in May. There’s a big “If” to consider.
Harrison’s opponent for the January 28th defense is Victor Polo (34-4-2)
who is one tough dude.
Let me tell you about Polo. The likable Colombian can
flat fight. Twice he’s fought for world title’s losing both on split
decisions. Once in London to Julio Pablo Chacon and once in New York to
Derrick ‘The Creep” Gainer. Should Harrison overlook Polo he could be up
the creek without a paddle. What’s Harrision say?
“I am ready for the big fights now and do not want any
easy options. 2005 is going to be a big year for Scott Harrison and after I
went to Vegas for Barrera-Morales III it proved to me this is the class of
fight I want every fight in my career moving forward. I can box, fight and
have a punch and really do want to mix it with the other boxing
champions.” Don’t count your date to the prom before the first dance.
Three pretty good fighters were suppose to be appearing
on the same card next Friday, January 21, at the City Hall in Nonthaburi.
Due to the Tidal Wave they been postponed with no new date announced. As I
worked so hard on this we’ll do the story anyway. WBC Bantam champ
Veeraphol Sahaprom (46-1-2) gets in the ring in a non title affair against
Edmund Velayo (6-5). With 14 successful title defenses maybe Veeraphol is
allowed a laughter. Velayo has lost 5 of his last 7. Pre-fight hype has
Velayo at 9-4. Someone’s lying. Saman Sorjaturong (46-5-1) is one hell of
a fighter. He held the WBC light fly title from 1995 to 1999 when he ran
into Yo-Sam Choi who took the title with a unanimous decision. Saman got a
rematch in 2001 this time losing via a KO in the 7th canto. Still any
fighter that can defend a “real” world title 11 times is aces in my
book. His opponent. Devid Lookmahanak is a suspect 4-0. The real question
here is, how long it will take Saman to shake the ring rust as he’s been
out of action almost 36 months? The real diamond here is Napapol
Kiattisakchokchai (28-2) who took the best super bantam in the world, Oscar
Larios, 10 stanza’s in ’03. He lost via a TKO but fought well at Los
Angeles famed Olympic Auditorium. He gets Jake Verano who is 5-4-1 and 2-4
over the last 6. As the guy in the big town with the traffic use to write,
“Mosey on by.” But as it’s postponed, I’ll drink to that. How about
them apples?
PH3- Run 1087
What a great day for a run in the outback.
With two seasoned veteran hares Barnacle Bill and T4, expectations were high
that this first run of 2005 for the Pattaya Monday H3 would be the best run
of the year. Or would it be the worst? Have you noticed that Mismanagement
is so well organised this year? I think the new Grandmaster Flying Frog can
be discredited for this and unfortunately I have decided to plan out my
Monday hashing to keep up with this contemporary trend. Because of an
estimated 200 people on this run the plan was simple: get to the Scandi bar
early, sign up, get a seat on the bus (sick of standing), be a FRB and stay
out the front of the pack just behind Fireman.
The plan worked well. No dogs, quiet cattle, well marked
barbed wire, nice scenery, friendly farmers and us FRB’s all agreed that
it was the best run of the year. But, the majority in the circle may have
felt differently and so to the circle. Our No-Disaster Grandmaster Flying
Frog opened the circle to the jeers of cows, barbed wire, cows and cows.
Being a FRB I had missed all the drama of the pack stampeding some hefty
cows. A couple of weeks ago we lost some children on the run, but this time
the Hares placed these children and their loving parents in danger of being
trampled to death. The look of horror and fear on the circle’s faces
disappeared as Sunflower’s breasts bounced around (and we all tried to
imagine what colour g-string she was wearing under those crack forming tight
tights and and where was I...) giving the happy raffle winners prizes
including Free Willy with the worst Christmas shirt ever. Visitors, Madmax,
CIA, and Butt-F’r were welcomed. Religion and RA Sir Airhead had no
hesitation in icing the Hares for causing the near disastrous stampede and
the poor farmer was heard to say he was writing a letter of complaint to the
Pattaya Mail. King Yao Yao (bleeding and suffering from barbed wire wounds)
rightly criticised the Hares for the death traps they laid. The most popular
person on the ice Fireman has started a new Hash tradition by wedging 3
large ice cubes into his crack of ass while patiently waiting in the bucket
and with great muscle control releasing them when rising from the ice. It
has been suggested by the cracks that the Hash sheet contain photos of nice
young butts, but I think this may be a rule 6 or 7 violation.
Monster and his black eye were iced and it was suggested
by the RA that, over time and with the right steroids, he could grow into
his name. The circle was then given back to the GM who farewelled the
leavers No More C*m and C*m Yak Yak, and Virgins On In to the call of skin,
skin (I wonder what that’s about?) Returnees Ringworm. Anniversaries:
I’m a Pig F’r - 50 runs, Kidney Bean - 100 runs, Ringworm - 150 runs, VV
- 250 runs.
There was confusion when Hash detective Poncho The
Pervert iced Spaghetti Head for letting his lovely expanding wife drive the
car in America without having a licence. Spaghetti Head was heard to say
“If it’s good enough in Thailand, its good enough in America” and that
his ex-wife is the local sheriff, so everything was OK. To conclude a great
night’s entertainment and the best run of the year, all nations were iced
for the New Year and the merriment continued on the bus and back to the TQ2
for happy hour.
On On
Cunning Linguist
Maria Sharapova downs Venus Williams in TAT tennis exhibition
Daisy Vogt
Photos: Michael Vogt
Just two weeks before the opening of the first ATP
tournament of the 2005 year, the Australian Open, Chiang Mai saw Wimbledon
champion Maria Sharapova, Venus Williams (world ranking number nine),
Thailand’s number one Tamarine Tanasugarn and Thailand’s number two
women tennis player, Suchanun Viratprasert.
 Venus
returns one of Maria’s powerful serves.
One minute of silence was observed before the matches
began and the players donated their fees towards the victims of the Tsunami
disaster.
Even though the Sharapova/Williams contest was an
exhibition match, both players showed powerful deep strokes, but the young
Maria, ranked world number four, did not allow Venus Williams to get the
upper hand and showed her there is a small difference between number four
and number nine.
Venus’ serve was broken in the first game, and she
dropped to 0-2 before she found her power to come back to even the match at
two games all. But Maria came back to take a 4-2 lead before Venus could
level again at 4-4. Despite many first serve errors, Sharapova won the first
set by blasting two un-returnable forehands down the line.
 Maria
served well, but needed to work on her first service.
Venus Williams, known for her power game, seemed
distracted even though the fans really cheered her on, and she was down 0-5
before she regained her concentration and won three straight games. The
match lasted only 78 minutes, finishing with Venus serving a double fault to
lose in two sets, 6-4, 6-3.
The second feature was a special doubles match with Maria
Sharapova and Tamarine Tanasugarn against Venus Williams and Suchanun
Viratprasert which ended with a win for Maria and Tamarine in a tie-breaker.
At the end the players auctioned off their rackets,
realising 100,000 baht each to raise even more funds to help the victims of
the southern disaster.
 Tamarine
Tanasugarn, Thailand’s number one women’s tennis player, makes a
powerful return during the doubles.
Sightseeing for the tennis stars was also on the agenda,
with Venus seen sitting on a huge elephant at the elephant training center
in Mae Rim, talking to her sister on a mobile phone saying, “Guess where I
am? I am sitting on top of an elephant. I never thought I would be able to
do that!”
Sharapova and Williams will be playing in Hong Kong next,
before going to Australia for the ATP opener.
The packed
stadium, specifically erected for this event.
A wedding green in Pattaya
‘The Shirt’ bowling tournament reloaded
The annual ‘Shirt’ Bowling tournament
postponed after being rained out in September added a new twist to the day.  Phil
‘The Shirt’ and Renalyn Clear re-took their vows in Pattaya for their
friends in Thailand after marrying in the Philippines earlier last year.
Phi Clear, aka Phil ‘the Shirt’ held a small weeding
blessing on the greens at Pattaya Bowling Green. The ceremony in Thailand
was for Phil’s friends after having been married to Renalyn in the
Philippines earlier last year. What better way to celebrate a wedding than
hold a bowling tournament?
 Loud
shirts were during part of the day dress code for the re-loaded ‘Annual
Shirt Challenge’ at the Bowling Green.
The day began with friends and family gathering on the
grass at the Bowling Green, where a priest from Pattaya’s St. Nikolaus
church gave the blessing as everyone was eager to get onto the green to
take part in the day’s competition.
Local players dressed in brightly colored shirts, the
reason Phil is called ‘The Shirt, took to the greens for a fun event.
Bangkok based lawn bowlers also took part in the informalities they went on
into the evening.
 Winners
were presented with their unique trophy after a successful day out.
The party began with raffle tickets being sold as part
of the day to raise funds for the Lions club of Jomtien Pattaya’s
community based projects.
However, the emphasis was on relaxing and having fun and
the prize giving began for the bowlers with not only the winners being
presented with ‘Shirt’ plaques but also those who wore the brightest
and most outlandish attire for the day.
Reports from those attending the evening’s celebration recalled little
the next day but assured the enjoyed the wedding blessing, the bowling and
of course the party.
Play
ball...oops, wrong sport! Bowlers took to the greens for the fun
competition.
|
