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H.E. Anand Panyarachun hosts Special Olympics Charity Golf at Eastern Star
Mike Franklin
Former Prime Minister, H.E. Anand Panyarachun hosted the
2005 Charity Golf Invitational for Special Olympics Thailand (SOT) at
Eastern Star Country Club & Resort on Friday and Saturday 25th/26th
February.
H.E.
Anand Panyarachun with the winning team, Siam Cement Foundation Juniors.
Forty sponsored teams signed up for the Team Scramble
tournament, representing thirty-four sponsors in the Gold, Silver &
Bronze categories.
The intellectually disabled athletes that participate in
the Special Olympics Thailand program have the opportunity to attend
training camps and compete in a variety of sports such as swimming,
football, tennis, basketball and track & field athletics.
 Anand
signing the glass on an auctioned painting after the prizegiving.
Every two years some are able to compete in the Asia
Pacific Special Olympics, and every four years in the Special Olympics World
Games. It is through involvement in Special Olympics, and dedication to
their chosen sport, that they become healthier, physically fit, and
respected members of society.
The Charity Golf Invitational is a two-day event held at
Eastern Star Country Club & Resort where Anand is chairman of the Board
of Directors. His splendid house, overlooking the 14th green was the venue
for the pre-tournament party held on Friday February 25. Always a much
anticipated event and a notable social occasion attended by the event
sponsors, Khun Anand’s personal guests, the Special Olympics Committee and
volunteers in SOT, and disabled athletes representing the achievement of the
Special Olympics Thailand program.
 ‘Tournament
in full Swing’ at Eastern Star.
The Friday evening party was no exception with many
distinguished guests, including former ministers and ambassadors from
Anand’s government and Dr. Naris Chaiyasoot, Chairman of Special Olympics
Thailand, formerly Rector of Thammasart University and currently Director
General of Fiscal Policy at the Ministry of Finance.
Other distinguished guests included film & TV actress
Jintara Sukaphat. The dinner buffet featured many sponsored specialties of
Thai and Western food, enjoyed on a fine evening in the homely setting of
Anand’s veranda and pool deck with the band in full swing and set for
karaoke later in the evening. Renowned watercolor artist Sompote Singthong
was present, having been commissioned by SOT to create a work for auction at
the party. It was a stunning work of sailing on the high seas, and
deservedly raised 111,000 baht towards the proceeds of the event. Khun Anand
kindly allowed the ‘Pattaya Mail on TV’ crew to film at the party as
well as at the golf the following day, so I had the opportunity to interview
a number of guests, including Dr. Naris, the artist Sompote, and Suthep
Vice-Chairman of the Special Olympics committee, who presented two
volunteers eager to help with SOT projects. And not least, Rachaniwan
Bulakul (Nui) who is the SOT organizer for the event and is as busy as it is
possible to be.
 Suwimon
and Sukon Nahnongkam, 20 both gold medallist in the special Olympics with
their teacher Wikanda Duangpim (Kru Ae).
However, the star guests were undoubtedly the charming
twin girls representing intellectually disabled athletes, accompanied by
their teacher Miss Wikanda Duangpim (Kru Ae).
Suwimon and Sukon Nahnongkam, 20 years old from
Chaiyapoom, attend and board at a special school for the disabled at
Chaiyapoom as their parents are disabled too.
Their chosen sport is Track & Field athletics and
both are gold medal winners. Suwimon won three gold medals in the 2002 Asia
Pacific Special Olympics in Japan, competing in the 100m, 200m and 4x100
Relay. Her twin sister, Sukon, competed in the 2003 Special Olympics World
Summer Games in Ireland winning gold in the 400m, silver in the 800m and 4th
place in the 4x100m. Outstanding performances, fully achieving the
objectives of the Special Olympics program. Both girls now have the
confidence to introduce themselves in public and did so on-stage at the
party, and again during the Saturday prize-giving ceremony. They are
introduced, on camera, with their teacher during the golf coverage for
Pattaya Mail on TV.
Anand at
GIS in photo-call with students and parents.
On Saturday morning, in fine weather that was partly
overcast with a cooling breeze, we moved on to the serious business of
getting sponsor teams to their allocated tees in time for the 10am Shotgun
Start. Largely successful, but missing one or two teams that had clearly
enjoyed the party the night before.
With the golf in progress, it was time for Anand to visit
the Garden International School nearby, on the occasion of the School’s
2005 Sports Day and 10th Anniversary. Principal Ruth Grant, Directors and
staff welcomed Anand and, to celebrate the occasion, His Excellency planted
a commemorative tree in the grounds. He then had the customary photo-call
with students, parents and staff that he is always pleased to give on such
occasions.
Back at Eastern Star, the sponsor teams were all back in
the Clubhouse around 3 p.m. and, as one would expect with a Scramble format,
scores were generally good. Near Pin technical prizes were claimed but,
regrettably, there were no ‘Holes-in One’. Big hitter of the day was
Chris Harney who out-drove everyone on the both Long Drive holes, # 4 &
# 11.
The buffet, prize-giving ceremony, lucky draw and charity
auction was held in the splendid Masters Conference Hall.
Dr. Panas Simasathien, Chairman of the Organizing
Committee gave the opening remarks, followed by SOT Chairman Dr. Naris
Chaiyasoot who presented Special Olympics Thailand. A VCD screen
presentation told the story and showed the activities and work of SOT for
the intellectually disabled.
SOT athletes, Suwimon and Sukon, came to the stage and
charmingly thanked all sponsors and participants for their support.
Finally, it was time for the Team Scramble results to be
announced, the Tournament Committee of Saradej and Nathaporn (Eastern Star)
and Mike Franklin (Tournament consultant) having completed the scoring using
scoring method ‘System 36’.
In third place came PTT Rayong with a gross 67, handicap
3 producing net 64. There was a net 63 tie for winner and runner-up between
Cathay Pacific Airways (2) and Siam Cement Foundation Junior. Both teams
recorded a gross 63, handicap scratch and net 63.
Under ‘System 36’ rules the count-back is conducted
starting with Hole handicap 1, that is the par 4 Hole 16 at Eastern Star.
Cathay Pacific recorded a par at that hole, while Siam
Cement Foundation Juniors made a birdie. Cathay Pacific (2) were accordingly
runners-up and the Siam Cement Foundation Juniors declared winners. Team
trophies were presented by Dr. Panas, Dr. Naris, and the winner’s trophies
with the perpetual Special Olympics Anand Panyarachun Cup, by Khun Anand.
That might have been the end of the proceedings had there
not been a never ending supply of draw prizes, and auction items to add to
the charity proceeds.
A weekend to be remembered and to be repeated again as
the Special Olympics Charity Golf Invitational is one of two tournaments
hosted by H.E. Anand at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort. The other
due to take place in November to raise funds for UNICEF projects in Thailand
and hosted by Anand as the UNICEF Ambassador for Thailand.
Special Olympics Thailand 2005
Gold Sponsors
Cathay Pacific 1, Cathay Pacific 2, Siam Cement Foundation (DSI), Siam
Cement Foundation (Junior), Pakaiphan 1, Pakaiphan 2, Thai Farmers Bank 1,
Thai Farmers Bank 2, SET 1, SET 2
Silver Sponsor
INGENICO, Master Card, Unocal, IRCP, Government Saving Bank, Heng Group,
Thipaya Insurance, Minsen Machinery, Green Spot, Fiscal Policy Office, Siam
Commercial Bank, Ultraman, TU Association, Siam Kobuta, Michelin.
Bronze Sponsors
TU Econ Assoc., Paul Horsting, Toshiba, TU Commerce & Account, Scan
Leasing, ARC, NPC, Tisco, Siam Cement Chemicals, Siam Cement, TU Commerce
& Account Alumni, Paiboon Insurance, PTT Rayong.
Oledong holds on to
WBC Youth Straw weight title
6th round TKO ends the match
Ariyawat
Nuamsawat
World Boxing Council Youth Straw weight champ, Oledong
Kratingdaenggym proved that age is no barrier when it comes to keeping the
heat turned on. The Thai champ unleashed a fury of punches to down
contender Ray Orais, from the Philippines last Friday afternoon in
Pattaya.
 Oledong
Kratingdaenggym (right) of Thailand releases a quick left punch against
Ray Orais (left), from the Philippines at the temporary boxing stadium set
up at Pattaya School No. 2, Friday February 25. Kratingdaenggym retained
his WBC Youth title after defeating Orais by TKO in the sixth round.
(Photo Pattaya Mail/ Ariyawat Nuamsawat)
The headline match took place at the temporary ring set
up in the grounds of Pattaya School No. 2 as fight fans gathered to watch
the first bout of the afternoon.
The two 105 pound boxers stepped into the ring on a hot
afternoon with both appearing some what ‘relaxed’ in the first round.
In the second stanza Oledong turned up the heat heading straight into the
Filipino’s defences land a quick succession of blows to both the head
and body. Orais returned more determined the third and fourth as the pair
traded blow for blow.
However, in the fifth it was clear that Orais was
losing steam fast and in the sixth the Thai knocked his opponent to the
canvas. The referee stepped in to give an 8 count with Ray returning to
his feet.
Not losing sight of the opportunity, Oledong continued
the onslaught knocking Ray Orais down a second time but the Filipino
contender refused to give in and again returned to his feet only to see
the Thai deliver a quick succession of lefts and rights until the referee
declared the bout over. Oledong Kratingdaenggym retaining his WBC Youth
Straw weight title, for the tenth time, by means on TKO.
The second match of the day saw the slightly heavier
108lb class with Yodsonkeng C.P. Gym defeating Robert Rubillar of the
Philippines in the WBC Youth Light Flyweight title bout. C.P. Gym won on
point’s decision with the judges seeing it as 97:93, 96:96, and 98:94.
Wirat Wachiraratwong, match promoter and event manager
said that was pleased to promote the country’s sports and tourism and
help those facing hardship.
“Oledong has defended his youth championship belt for the tenth time.
He is in fine form at the moment, this match is an important test to see
if he can match up against the Isaac Bustos from Mexico the WBC title
holder in the near future,” said Wirat.
BA Interlines tennis tournament raises funds for charity
Ariyawat
Nuamsawat
British Airways hosted an Interline tennis tournament in
Pattaya last week. The three-day tournament was held at the Royal Cliff
Beach Resort from Wednesday to Friday last week.
Winning
is good!
Participants from other international airlines including
Qantas, United Airlines, American Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore and Cathay
Pacific took part in the event which aimed to raise funds for the Pattaya
Orphanage and tsunami victims in the country’s southern provinces.
On the final day of competition prizes were awarded to
the winners of various classes with the focus on having fun and exercising
rather than competition results.
The relaxed evening’s activities also included a buffet as well as
prizes handed out to the winners and totals of funds raised at the event.
Who really wants to play the Blue Tees at Burapha?
IPGC TAGGS Golf from The Haven
Monday Feb. 21
Burapha C/D
Stableford
Blue Division
1st Martin Grimoldby, 34 pts
2nd Phillip Larsen, 33 pts
3rd Claus Nielsen, 32 pts
White Division
1st Mike Sanders, 42 pts
2nd Al Rolnik, 40 pts
3rd Don Scott, 37 pts
With “Major” Roy away in Siberian UK it seemed an
ideal opportunity to take a leaf out of Lewiinski’s and play the
day’s competition from blue and white tees instead of usual handicap
split of Divisions 1 & 2. The end result, no great surprise, just
nine golfers (27%) opted to play off the long blue tee’s and with
handicaps ranging from 3 to 12, they all failed to play to their
handicap’s and will undoubtedly go up 0.1 at the end of the week.
Making an early return from UK, Martin narrowly took
the honours from the Danish hotshots Phillip and Claus. However,
competition was hot off the white tee’s where the bulk of the group
played and Mike took a surprise victory from Al and Don, just a week ago
Mike was spraying his tee shots all over the place and on one occasion
even had to buy his fellow competitors a round of drinks for failing to
reach the ladies tees! Clearly a great deal of effort and practice paid
off for Mike as he played beautifully for his 42 points, which included a
birdie 2. The unlucky players to miss out on a podium positions were Guy
Billings on countback off the blues and John Draper on countback off the
whites. In the ladies division, played off the red tees as usual, Trudie
Chadbourn once more dominated to win by one point from Kirsten Larsen.
In the 2s competition, Mike Sanders shared the pool
with Dave Lee, Don Scott and Phillip Larsen. Back at the prize giving,
Richard Livingston, the resident PGA professional, welcomed Kirsten and
Arne Larsen and welcomed back Martin Grimoldby and “Captain” Bob
Heath before bidding a sad farewell to “singing” John Kendall, who
cut his trip short and scurried back to Costa Rica when he heard that an
IRS agent was in town.
Friday Feb. 25
Phoenix Mountain/Lakes
Monthly Medal
Blue Tees
Division 1 (0-15)
1st Norman Isherwood, net 74 - c/b 36
2nd Randall Penrod, net 74 - c/b 38
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki, net 75
Division 2 (16 plus)
1st Brian Kelly, net 77 - c/b 40
2nd Peter Johansson, net 77 - c/b 43
3rd Paul Hartley, net 78
Another large turnout of masochists to play off the
blue tees, compulsory this time for the coveted monthly medal and as
usual the course was in excellent condition, though the strong winds and
slow play made for an arduous day’s golf which can be seen by the
scores returned on the tougher Mountain and Lakes layout.
In division 1, Norman maintained his tremendous form
(now playing off 11 handicap) to take the honours from Randall and
Takeshi whilst Brian is finally signalling a return to form after all his
swing changes and hours of practise to just pip Peter on countback to
take division 2 honours.
The ladies champion, who else but Trudie Chadbourn!
She won her second competition of the week with a net 83, a score much in
keeping with those recorded on the day. Birdies were hard to shoot off
the long blue tees, yet sharpshooter Phillip Larsen once again did the
business and he shared the pool with Takeshi Hakozaki who has no doubt
been practising “target golf” of the fifth tier at the driving range
in Japan. Back at the Haven, Richard Livingston welcomed Paul Biamonte
and Jim Norris and welcomed back Gerald Decio and Per Aschen before
bidding farewell to Ole Stamnes and Marcus Kamfjord to their fjords in
icy Norway, Mike Sanders to his ski slopes in Switzerland, Chang Suh to
his pineapple fields in Hawai and Karl Holm to his bacon factory in
freezing Denmark.
The End of the Impossible Dream?
MBMG Casuals League - Week 19
Was this the week that shall be looked
back upon at the end of the season as the one that saw the ‘impossible
dream’ die? When the man who tried to buy success at the highest level, at
his first attempt, saw his hopes shattered? When the team previously seen as
unassailable, untouchable, proved to be only too human, only too fragile?
Are the fates of Chelsea supremo Abramovich and Londoner kingpin Stamp
linked? Are they destined to become the big-money ‘nearly men’ of their
respective leagues? Will there never be an end to the questions in this
opening paragraph? Will there?
And yet it could have been so different... With only
seconds to go to the final whistle, another hard fought Londoner victory
seemed to be on the cards, yet no one had asked the men from RC Pattaya to
read the script, and not just because many of them can’t read. So, in the
final minute of the match, the hallowed granite of the Regents School (turf
must be the only difficult thing to lay in Pattaya), witnessed a stunning
equalizer that places the race for the title very much back into the hands
of the holders, The Dubliner, who had a comfortable 7-0 victory over bottom
placed Blitz FC. Who can stop the boys in White from claiming a fourth
successive title now?
Elsewhere, a fascinating 4-4 draw was fought out between
the Scans (for whom Anders Kargo Schmidt scored all 4 goals - scorching the
rumour that says you cannot be successful with a crazy middle name) and the
battling Winking Frogs. Talking of battling boys, Les Gaulois de Bangkok
made a successful comeback following their recent rest period, beating Robin
Hood by the odd goal in a five goal thriller (work the score out for
yourselves), the custodians of Sherwood Forest having Irwin red-carded to
boot, or for booting, one or the other. Finally, a six goal festival saw
Bangkok United share the points with the Bulls Head Brazilians in a game
that can only be described as a score draw.
Results (Week 19): Blitz FC 0 VS 7 The Dubliner; Robin
Hood FC 2 VS 3 Les Gaulois de Bangkok; Scandinavian Vikings 4 VS 4 The
Winking Frog FC; Racing Club Pattaya 1 VS 1 Londoner FC; Bangkok United 3 VS
3 Bulls Head Brazilians.
The Open’s Claret Jug is Gary Blackburne’s
IPGC Golf From Lewiinski’s
You can always get a rise out of a Brit
or a Yank if you initiate a conversation regarding the proper name for the
major that is hosted annually by the Royal and Ancient. However, there is
unanimity that the annual slugfest, sponsored by Lewiinksi’s and the
dream child of the owner, which is contested for four days, over a five day
period, is simply known as “The Open”. OK, well maybe not unanimity.
But be that as it may, 88 players showed to contest an event’s that
continues to grow in popularity over its five-year legacy.
For those unfamiliar with the format of the event, a
brief word. All four rounds are played on the tacit home course of the
Society, Green Valley. The first two days are stroke play, with the top
fifty percent, and ties, going on to day 3 and 4 of Stroke Play, after a
days rest. Those who felt the lash of the cut line clean their slate and
play a two-day Stableford. The gals, in the meantime, have their own four
day Stableford running the extent of the event.
Day One - The Sugar Shack’s Paul Shaw broke from the
gate quickly with a net 65 and a two stroke lead. The 19 handicapper was
closely pursued by a elite group of single digits, Phil Mitchell at 67, and
Andy Leach and Owner Steve Mascari at 68. Paul had two more Sugar Shackers
at 69 in J.J. Wright and Rick Brand. But it is not a one day tournament! On
the Ladies side, the GM’s gal went one under her handicap to take a 4
point lead over Chaba Carney.
Day Two - The cream began to rise on Day Two as Mascari
followed his 68 with a gross 70/net 64, for a two day total of 132, four
clear of Andy Leach. Another 6 handicapper, Jim Wickstrom, followed his
opening 76/70 with a 73/67 volley to trail Andy by a single swipe. First
day leader Paul Shaw, faltered, albeit only slightly, to fourth at 138 and
last year’s contender through three days, Sean Murphy, was at 139. “And
the gals?” you ask. Chaba battled back with a level to handicap effort
and the halfway lead at 69 points.
The Day Two competition was followed by an enticing
buffet back at Lewiinski’s as the food was well prepared, and abundant,
and the libations flowing as the field looked fondly on a day off and
looked warily at a alcohol-free Makha Bucha Day on Wednesday. The party was
supplemented, to the delight of all, by the Day One and Day Two videos of
all the contestants compiled by local Teaching Pro Ian Ashenden. But the
merriment was interrupted briefly for the news, the cut was... 154. And so
it was that 44, with two-day scores of 153 and less, went on to a play Day
Three and Day Four of medal competition and 44, plus 4 adds, girded their
loins for two days of Stableford. And the gals carried on.
Day Three – Ah, Moving Day! Like a boxer coming off
the ropes, Paul Shaw came roaring back and threw a 67 at it. He turned in a
6 shot deficit to the Day Two leader to a three-stroke advantage just like
that. The suddenly human Mascari could manage only 82/76. Steady 14
handicap Charles Li saw his net 72, 68, 70 give him sole third at 210.
Where is the guy in the title? He is not in joint fourth, that belongs to
Graham Buckingham, Andy Leach and Flipper Mitchell. He is not in seventh,
that belongs to J.J. at 213. Hold it, that can’t be him a 214, 9 strokes
off the pace with but a day to play. Yes, that’s our title boy.
“And what about the girls?” you say. Well Chaba has
shown the horse the whip and doubled her Day Two lead with an excellent 89
gross/39 point effort. And the Two Day Wonders? Johnny McHugh and Sen.
Robert Patterson were locked up at 40 points, with Ivan Molineux a point
adrift.
Day Four - The Front Nine – The leaders go out in
reverse order of the field, with the contenders, therefore, off last. It is
Shaw, Mascari, Li and Buckingham in the final group. And then it is Leach,
Mitchell, J.J. and Blackburne just in front. Blackburne starts out with a
bogie, but holds it steady, not giving one away to par again until the
sixth. And he birdies the seventh! Meanwhile Li opens with six pars only to
double the well guarded seventh. Mascari opens with three pars, then
bogie-bogie. He rights the ship for three more, but a double at 8. Shaw
absorbs a double at the tough number one. Butterflies? A double at 5. A
triple at 6 Aaagh! But remember he is a 19. He is supposed to do this and
can afford it. They make the turn. Shaw at 241. Li at 242. Graham
Buckingham at 243. Mascari at 245. Andy Leach at 245. And our title boy,
Blackburne at 247. Six strokes. Too much for nine holes? Remember it is
stroke play!
Day Four – The Back Nine - A blood curdling yell is
heard from the par 5 tenth. It is Paul Shaw gagging on the ol’ Bo Derek,
the perfect “10”. Then a triple, a bogie, and a triple par! Shawyanora!
Li is attacked by the bogie monster. Three of the first four on the back,
but he strokes three times. Blackburne opens with four pars, minus two net.
Graham goes single, double, triple to open. There will be no Buckingham for
Prince Charles or for the Lewiinski Open. Leach goes one lower than
Blackburne with a birdie on No. 12, but the joy is short lived with a
double on No. 13.
So let’s update through No. 13. Li is at 258. Mascari
and Leach at 261. Blackburne at 262. Five to play! The bogie monster
continues to haunt Li as he goes single, double, single, but stokes twice.
272. Mascari a bogie on 15, but he strokes. 272. Leach a catastrophic
triple on No. 15 with a stroke, and a bogie of No. 16. 275. Blackburne has
three pars, two strokes. He takes the lead on No. 16 at 271. Still two to
go and he bogies No. 17. Was it leader board watching? It can’t be, Li
and Mascari are behind him in the fairway. Li bogies No. 17, but nets a
par. Mascari a par. All three horses come to the bunker filled fairway of
No. 18, and its well guarded green, knotted at 276. Could you ask for more?
Only Li strokes. Blackburne is a group ahead. He lays up short of the
traps. An beautiful eight iron to 15 feet! His foursome moves forward. He
waits his turn. The Claret Jug is within reach. Back in the fairway, the
single handicapped Mascari lays up. The ever-improving Li flies the
imposing bunkers! Blackburne and his caddy agree on a line, he is over the
putt, he strokes and “YES!” into the clown’s mouth for a 279 net,
nine under handicap, seven on the last day! A leading number has been
posted. But there is talent behind him. Mascari comfortable in this
position takes a little extra club, a seven, and “Yes” puts it Seven
feet away! Li, adrenaline coursing through his veins, tries to compensate
by dropping down a club but he unloads on it and puts it 30 feet over the
back. But remember, he strokes and can get up and down. He brings it on the
green about 10 feet away! Each competitor has a putt for a share. Li,
perhaps showing nerves, leaves the putt out. A bogie/net par for 280 net.
Now Mascari. A life filled with a balky putter, but steadier over the last
couple of years. One swing of the flatstick to tie for the lead and erase a
career of putter changes and shattered eggs. “No!”
And so it was the Gary Blackburne’s name appeared on
the Perpetual Trophy and Chas Li and Steve Mascari came Joint Runner-ups.
Steve Mascari won Low Gross with 304, 16 over, and three clear of Andy
Leach.
“And what about the Gals?” you ask. Chaba sheathed
the whip, and came across in a trot with a modest 29 points to distance a
fast closing Toy Theobald (39 points) by twelve.
And the Plate? – Johnny McHugh coupled a 36 point
outing with his 40 for a 76 day total over knotted Norm Robinson and Jack
Grindvold. Much to Norm’s chagrin, Jack 74 points prevailed on count
back.
Special thanks to The Classroom’s Pete Stonebridge for
his Day Four Near Pin vouchers, to the Lads Downunder in W.A.’s Peninsula
Golf and Social Club for the four days of Near Pin hat awards, to John
Emmerson and Steve Mascari for their tournament work. Also to Bob Patterson
for the “10 and under” Eclectic that was won by Phil Mitchell, with
Andy Leach and John McHugh taking second and third respectively, to Chris
Fox for his uncovered skins comp, to Pro Ian Ashenden for his par three
comp and to Maew’s capable staff who fed us in the morning and again at
night. Above all, thanks to those who participated.
Rare Treble for Harry Riley
IPGC Bunker Boys at the OK Corral
Siam Country Club was the venue for the Bunker Boys from
the OK Corral for their weekly medal tournament on Tuesday, February 22. The
course is looking jaded at the moment with dry, hard fairways and its
legendary pedestrian greens but the welcome afforded the forty-five golfers
was as warm as it could be. The field was cut at 16 and under and a tense
tussle was in evidence in both divisions, on a day when the scores were to
be very good. In fact the average net score was to be just 76, four over
par. In division two Ken Graham posted a score of 73 to take third place,
whilst Keith Hector went two better, breaking par with a net 71 for second
place. Roy Mitchell was king for a day with his net 70 and his form
continues to be excellent. Things could not have been closer in the top
flight with Ciano Glavinia picking up the bananas for his near miss of net
70 whilst Mike Allidi’s best gross of 71 (net 68) was good enough only for
a share of the win, with popular Englishman Dave Smith and, topping the
table for the third time in succession, Harry Riley. This was quite a feat
for the chirpy ex-plumber and he certainly made all the right connections on
the course. Surprisingly with so many fine scores there were only two birdie
twos and the lucky marksmen were Keith Hector and Paul Buckland, both on the
relatively easy par three twelfth.
Nile in Full Flow at Treasure
Hill
On Thursday, February 24, three dozen golfers left the OK
Corral bar for the ever easing route 331 to Treasure Hill for their weekly
stableford competition, on a hot, dry day. The course is suffering from the
drought, as are most at the moment, with very dry fairways, complicated by
greens under repair with aeration marks very much in evidence. However the
day was good for the two flights, cut at sixteen and under. In division two
Harry Cowling weathered his relegation well to record 31 points, two behind
newbie Graham Hiskett’s 33 points. Keith Hector continued his good form
with an excellent 34 point haul to take the flight’s main prize. In
division one golfing soul-mates Al McGrory and Dave Smith shared third place
with fine scores of 33 points, one behind the runner-up, another newbie,
Chris Sanders whose one-over 35 points was good enough for second place. In
full flow, at the top of the lists was Nile Sheehan and his rare under-par
37 point total took the day’s major honours. On his card he also recorded
two birdie twos for a share of the Super Sawng award, the other going to
Brian Bellis for his rare birdie on the beastly second hole. Nile was to be
remembered in the race for the Bananas also as he mistook the route and
ended up at Laem Chabang, thus arriving forty-five minutes late on the tee,
but Mr. Loy adjudged it an honest mistake and reprimanded him with the fruit
instead of disqualification. All in all, it was quite a day for the likeable
Londoner.
As always full results can be found at Pattaya’s most popular golf
website at: http://www.thebunkerboys.com
McDermott Charity Golf Day raises over US$75,000 for Batam Island Orphanages
Indonesia - The annual Batam Charity
Golf Bash, hosted on Batam from February 24-25, has raised over US$75,000,
(IR 682 million 500 thousand; 2,872,314.25 baht) for Batam Island orphanages
and community development projects during 2005.
For the fourth consecutive year, golfers comprising
valued customers from the international oil and gas industry, key regional
vendors and contractors as well as local dignitaries, traveled from across
Asia Pacific to the popular event to support the fund raising effort.
Since the first event in 2002 the tournament has raised
well over US$332,000 - for local Batam charities.
“Through the generous backing and sponsorship of our
loyal customers and supporters, I am proud that together as a community the
Batam Charity Bash has been able to raise over US$75,000 for the local
islanders this year,” said Steven Roll, president and director P.T.
McDermott Indonesia.
To ensure the proceeds are used for the purposes for
which they are raised, and to ensure transparency in how proceeds are spent,
the orphanage committee annually evaluates the orphanages on Batam and
carefully studies social community projects that require assistance; as well
as responding to local disaster relief. Through a dedicated charity account
established specifically for donations, the orphanage committee ensures
effective distribution, and careful and appropriate purchases are made.
During 2004, the committee assisted 6 orphanages and 447
orphans, and hundreds of needy villagers throughout 14 community projects on
the island through donations of food, clothing, medicine, improving general
living conditions, paying school fees, uniforms, educational books and
computers, as well as furniture; and has assisted with renovation and
construction of buildings at the orphanages and within the community at
large.
On February 13th and 20th 2005 the committee organized
and educational trip for 550 children to a local fish farm. The event was
held to allow the children to enjoy a social day out whilst at the same time
providing an educational opportunity to learn about local fish biology,
economy value, breeding and conservation. The two day trips were a great
success!
In addition to the support given to Batam this year the
committee elected to donate money to the Tsunami appeal for Aceh.
“Following the devastating and tragic events caused by the earthquake and
subsequent tsunami of December 26, 2004 an outpouring of support was
initiated by conscientious and generous McDermott employees in Batam,
Jakarta, Perth, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. In addition the Orphanage
Committee elected to pledge US$10,000 to support tsunami disaster relief
projects nominated by the Governor of Batam’s office, “said Roll.
“We hope that our pledge of support and financial
assistance to these projects will in some small way go to help rebuild the
lives of those who have lost so much.”
Avery & Dougal combine best, but Williams takes The Mug
Mike Franklin
Courses are always busy on a Public Holiday and Wednesday
February 23 at Pattaya Country Club was no exception. Some delays were
inevitable with 200 golfers on the course, but with the course playing short
and the weather fine it was an enjoyable day.
 JIGS
golfers, Keith Avery & Brendan Dougal with Mike and Samm helping.
A combined 71 Stableford points from Keith Avery and
Brendan (Doug) Dougal was just enough to take the high spot on the podium,
with Ed and Mam ‘Trayling’ by one shot with a combined 70 points. Best
score of the day was returned by Cecil Williams with 40 Stableford points,
duly rewarded with the JIGS Mug that recognizes a best individual
performance when the format allows.
Near pins were claimed by Joe McArdle and Tai Kennedy on
# 5 & # 12 respectively, and the long putts were sunk by John Oke and
Bob Rasmussen on # 9 & # 18.
 Cecil
Williams (right) claimed the mug after returning 40 stableford points for
the day.
Back at Jameson’s it was Curry Buffet night and during
the prize-giving a warm welcome was extended to newcomers Paul Horsting,
Bill Hurd, Brendan Dougal, Glenn Tyler, Alex Backlund, Bob Rasmussen, Bob
Easom, Tira Charuvastra and Alec Hoare.
Jameson’s International Golf Society is next out at Plutaluang, playing
North & West, on Wednesday March 9. Sign-up sheet is up in Jameson’s
or send me an email and I will be pleased to add your name.
O’Donnell, Gibson & Dyke take the Podium
Mike Franklin
The February Diana Group Seniors & Ladies Open
produced some fine scores on a fine day at Pattaya Country Club. Best of the
day came from the Seniors in the form of Geoff Parker and John Gibson, both
with 42 Stableford points and John Gibson claiming the winning spot with a
better ‘back-six’ count-back after a tie with 22 points each on the back
nine. This Gibson, it must be pointed out, is the John E. Gibson not to be
confused with the more widely angled single reflex John Gibson.
 February
winners in the Diana Senior and Ladies Open (l-r) John-E. Gibson, Jenny and
Dan Dyke.
Danny Dyke popped up again to win the Super Seniors with
39 points, closely followed by the exuberant Dane, Niels Maro with 38
points.
Jenny O’Donnell returned 37 points to win the Ladies
with Mam Trayling, now down to a 16 handicap, taking the runner-up spot with
33 points.
Near Pins on # 7 and # 12 were claimed by Niels Maro and
Ray Spence, whilst John E. Gibson collected from # 5 and # 16. Roger Privett
sank the longest putt on # 9 and Sue Spence, shortly to return to the UK was
longest on # 18.
John Cole was his usual laid-back and efficient administrative self,
Pattaya Country Club staff made their friendly contribution to the day and
it all went rather well. New faces were welcomed at the prize-giving and
invited to join again on Thursday March 31 for the next Diana Seniors &
Ladies Open. Sign-up sheets on the notice boards at the Green Bottle and
Diana Inn.
PSC golf from the Cafe Kronborg
Monday Feb. 21
Century Ban Chang
Stableford
The ever improving Century Ban Chang Country Club was
host for a Stableford Competition in two Flights. A Flight 0 to 18 and B
Flight 19 and above. The course on the day was fine, except for the
bunkers.
 Henk
De Bock(right) with Bjarne.
Big Aussie Jeff Wylie was in fine form still, to take
the A Flight with a fine 40 points, Doug Maiko was second with 39 points,
Brian Noguer third with 36 points and ever present Tony Scambler fourth
with 35 points. After Jeff’s five wins in a row there is no truth in the
rumour we are changing our name from PSC. To A.T.M.
Dutchman Henk De Bock took the B Flight with a fine 40
points, the Dutch are in good form at present. Aussie Pete King was second
with 38 points, Irishman Patrick Brown was third with 36 points and Dane
Bent Moeller was fourth with 34 points.
Results:
Near Pins: #5 Mike Winfield; #7 Doug Maiko; #13 Finn
Olson; #15 Clive Robinson.
Long Putts: #9 Barry Kerr; #18 Stephen Lewis
Thursday Feb. 24, Siam
Stroke - Monthly Medal
The monthly special at the Cafe Kronborg, served up with
a smile, is the Monthly Mug. Always the best supported of all the days,
this is the only one where the presentation is back at the Cafe Kronborg.
 Bjarne
presents the mug to Daryl Evans (left).
So to the day, and we had a split start time, three
groups off early and nine a bit later. And who did we choose to set the
pace? Yes, of course our Herbie, now you see him, now you don’t. Yes I
know he is pretty hard to miss.
This day the course was pretty quiet, so with an early
start, a quick trip around the course, and a quick shower, we zoomed along,
until we got back to the Cafe Kronborg an hour early. Will miracles never
cease to happen?
Back at the Kronborg as the results were declared, we
had some fine scores, and an Admiral who most thought would sail in.
 Kumi
Wakabayashi
In the A Flight, 0 to 19, the winner was our inscrutable
oriental, Kumi Wakabayashi with a fine net 68. In second place was Barry
Kerr, for once elevated to the rare atmosphere of the A Flight, with a net
69. In third we had Tony Scambler with a net 72 and in fourth was Richard
Kubicki with a net 74.
In the B Flight the winner was ‘The Admiral’ - Dave
Richardson with a super net 66, a score that most months would have won. In
second we had Dave Millar with a net 69 and then had a countback for third
with a net 72 that saw John Swanson in third and Alan Pearce in fourth.
 Dave
Richardson
So to the winner - One of the hardest things for an
organizer is to know when the new golfer is about to blossom, and in many
respects to keep up with his quick improvement. Most of we golfers had
purple patches and our ten minutes of fame at the beginning, and this was
this golfers wake up call to the rest, as after less than 1 year of golf,
Daryl Evans broke 100 for the first time, with a 94, and shot a net 60 to
win the Monthly Mug. Well played Daryl and goodbye to the 30s. T.T.F.N.
Results:
Near Pins: #4 Tony Scambler; #8 Karlotta Eisendottar;
#12 Barry Kerr; #16 Kumi Wakabayashi.
Long Putts: #9 Tony Scambler; #18 Bent Moeller.
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
Well, after a long absence from the
top, the shining knight finally reappeared on the scene. The weather was
good but again the course was over watered. It is the only course that I
know of that is always being watered when golfers begin play. Gordon
McKnight, who plays regularly with the Three Sisters group on Monday,
managed to wade through to beat the field by a huge 4 points. Gordon’s
game was on as he soundly beat the field of around thirty golfers.
 Winner
Gordon McKnight (right) and Cellar Dweller Paul Donahue (left after a day
out at Siam.
Coming in four points back was Sus Ige and Joan Jacinto
- both came in with 38 points. It was a good day for both but Gordon was
too much for them. It seems that most handicaps are coming in line as
different individuals are winning every week. Good work on the part of PSC
Golf Committee.
On the bottom it was a struggle as Dale Murphy and Paul Donahue fought
it out to see who would be holding the bag. Paul had one of his best games
and managed 12 points on the back nine. Dale struggled with his game but
managed 14 points to slip out of the cellar leaving Paul holding the bag
for the day. I believe that Paul has been trapped in the cellar for the
last few weeks as Tully improved his game and Rollie and Marvin have not
played the last few weeks. (Hope to see them soon!)
PSC golf with The Bunker
Crystal Bay Golf Club
On February 21 the Crystal Bay course was once again in
top class condition for the Bunker Boys. A stableford competition was held
on the “B and C” courses. Two Divisions as usual and some very good
high scores in Division “A”.
After a
great day out, the golfers relax and enjoy themselves at the Bunker Bar.
John Hughes was again the victor with 37 stableford
points, second place to Granville Swanton on 36 points and third went to
P.J. Redmond with 33 points. The higher scoring was in “B” division
where Jim Wooler finished top for the first time at the Bunker with 39
points. Second place went to John Preddy with 38 points and third place to
Glen Reaume with 36 points. Near the pins were John King, Orjan
Suenningsson, Granville Swanton and Thea Von Spellen.
Great Lakes Golf Course
Wednesday’s play was at Great Lakes, which was like
playing on the moon, no grass on the fairways, plenty of rough, although
the greens were OK.
In Division one Wilf Latham shot a net 73 to take first
prize, John Hughes and Mark Gooch were runners up both with 74. In
division two, Geoff Parker mastered the conditions very well; he scored a
net 70 to win. Second place went to Jim Wooler with 77 and third was Leif
Hogberg with 78. Near the pins went to Brian Bellis, Leif Hogberg, John
Hughes and Granville Swanton.
Century Ban Chang
In a hastily rearranged fixture on Friday, the Bunker
Boys went to Century Bang Chang for a stableford competition. In Group
“A” the scores were very good with John Hughes winning with 41
stableford points, closely followed by Mike Alidi and Brian Bellis both
with 40 points to share second place. In group “B”, Curtis Hessler was
the winner with 37 stableford points. Runner up was Neil Griffin, 36
points and third went to Glen Reaume with 35 points. Near the pins were
won by Graham Preston, John Hughes, Martin Davis and Mike Alidi.
The Bunker Boys are playing three times a week during the high season,
(Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s) so if you would like a round of
golf, call into the Bunker Bar on Soi Chaiyapoon (near X-zyte disco and
across the street from Tony’s Disco II) to pick up a golf schedule or
consult the Pattaya Mail every week and, as usual, you can get the latest
information by visiting our website @ www.bunkerboysgolf.com
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar
Tuesday Feb. 22
Noble Place
Stableford
Tuesday morning is fast becoming bacon butties at
Bert’s. I like to set the day up with one, and a mug of coffee. Mind the
bread, real bread, has to be toasted and the bacon crispy. Save the eggs for
those without hangovers.
Winners and
second place getters.
The good bit over they make you work before you get some
more free food, so it’s into the transport and up to Nobel Place. Not the
most memorable trip in Thailand, but made much better when you get there and
pay your dues. With the best green fees in the business, it makes a day out
there a pleasure. So it was onto the course and the test for the day were
the A & C Layouts, and we were allowed a two tee start.
The course, whilst a little dry, was not in bad
condition, so we zoomed around. A bit of grass on the fairways and decent
greens made the day a fine walk, for some. Back in the clubhouse, which is
actually very good for such a fine value course, it was into a hot shower
and then a fine ‘ Cold one’ before the trip back.
Technical
winners.
Back at ‘The Beach’ Bert had been busy, so whilst
waiting for the results, all could partake of a fine chicken curry. Then
into the results, and as per last week we had Jeff Wylie win the A Div, his
6th win on the trot, with Bob Noble in second. In Div B we also had a
familiar face as Bob Lawrence took the honours ahead of Colin Bavington. A
good day being had by all, we had a beer or two before going home to bed!
Incidentally, Bert has joined the local Quiz League on a
Sunday Night. If you are bright, smart and intelligent, you will probably be
playing for some one else, however we are friendly. Please contact Bert if
you can be a regular. Thanks and T.T.F.N.
Results:
Division 1 Winner: Jeff Wylie; 2nd Bob Noble
Division 2 Winner: Bob Lawrence; 2nd Colin Bavington
Near Pins: Michael Dige, Maurice Herberge, Chang Suh,
Nigel Cannon, Gaston Despres, Marcel Brunet, Mike Kenyon and Martin Bullen.
Long Putts: Maurice Herberge, Max Matthews and Andy Evans.
The big men rule the day
PSC golf from McAllister Bar & Grill
Friday Feb.25
Century Ban Chang
Stableford
It’s great to see the low handicappers get their licks
in on a golf course that can be kind and brutal all in the same round.
Century is one of those venues that require precision tee shots and
well-placed approaches or you end up with some pretty unusual lies needing a
contortion of a stance adjustment to get a club on the ball.
Don McAllister
and staff congratulate
the winners of the week.
Good weather was available and the north Asian contingent
was marshaled over to the tenth tee so our tee off went smoothly. Again a
good turnout of 30 players made for a close competition. Over the front nine
it seemed as though we have had a surprise golfer in the winners circle as
Jim Tully had a superb 23 points to start. It appears that the excitement
was just too much for Jim and the back nine was a quite different story as
he faded off the leader board in grand fashion.
Back at McAllister’s the scoring went quickly as the players enjoyed an
excellent luncheon treat organized by Donald himself. The winners were
announced and sure enough, there was nothing less than a XXXL in the bunch.
Alan “the tin man” Pearce held first with 42 points closely followed by
Dennis Willett with a mere 41 due to an unfortunately misplaced tee shot on
hole 17. In third with 40 points was the man who, it later transpired, has a
penchant for snazzy national underwear, came Michael Dige having complained
there had to be something wrong with a golf course which yielded four
birdies on the back nine. Well done guys, see you next week.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Being a “Day late and a Baht short” is not the worst
thing that can happen with The Square Ring. Many will tell you that The
Square Ring has turned that behavior pattern into an art form. First got an
email from pal and sometimes traveling sidekick. “Howard! Its not the year
of the cock, its the year of the rooster.” Also The Square Ring and the
old gentleman that puts the words to page belatedly wishes Mr. David Brook,
of the Patong Beach Brooks, a very Happy Birthday. Things was a Rockin and
Rollin at the Island Lager Bar on the 27th. Set for a little “Rocken &
Rollin” in his own right is “Dapper” Dave Stewart (14-0) the pride of
the Second Road. He’ll be placing his undefeated record on the line in
late April when he gets a British Title Lightweight eliminator against Danny
Hunt (17-1). Hunt’s only loss came to 6-16 Leeroy Williamson. Hunt avenged
the loss three months later.
They were doing a little R & R in a temporary ring
close to the Chaophraya Pier in Pathumthani recently. The former WBC
lightfly title holder Saman Sorjaturong (46-6-1) was making his first start
in 34 months. His opponent was WBC #35 David Nakornluang (5-0, 3 KOs) a
former Muaythai champion. Ring Rust is hard to shake especially when you
have a very determined youngster sharing the ring. It was fairly close in
the opening stanza. The second started that way until Nakornluang landed a
“a vicious left hook at the body that dropped the former WBC champ.” In
the 3rd round Saman fought on bravely, against all odds as the youngster
marched through him like “a lady walks to music through baht”. The end
came after the second knockdown of the round when the referee stopped it at
2:33.
This comes under the heading of “say it ain’t so
Claude.” Word on the street is that Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan has
withdrawn from the British Amateur Boxing Association Championships. The
speculation is that the next step will be Amir turning professional under
the banner of Naseem Hamad. The Hamad banner has a picture of a “Lop
Earned Camel Jockey speeding away with a goat under each arm” and the
words, “Mom there’s someone I want you to meet.” Amir can look forward
to having his first fight in Yemen and getting paid in Rial. There is a
right way and a wrong way to do things. If he signs with Hamad that is the
wrong way.
In the case of Amir, the “word” on the street was a
little wrong. ‘Way to go Claude”. Maybe. The BBC is reporting that’s
it another case of Dad living through the actions of the son. “Amir
Khan’s father has accused British amateur boxing officials of mistreating
his son and helping to drive him towards the professional boxing ranks.”
What’s he on about? “Khan withdrew from the ABA Championships, following
rows about his ticket allocation at Great Yarmouth and Shah Khan defended
Amir against claims that his camp made unreasonable ticket demands for
Saturday’s fight. “He’s done loads for amateur boxing and deserves
more than they’re saying about him,” Khan told BBC Radio Five Live.
Here’s the deal. All boxers in the championships were offered 10 tickets.
That wasn’t enough for Greedy Poppa Khan. Then a British official freed up
400 tickets but alas t’was too late. “Everyone wants to pull him down
now,” says Dad. Jerk alert. The right way to operate? Take a page from the
book of Junior Witter.
The quote was “We are here to fly the flag for British
Boxing.” Those words were uttered by Junior Witter prior to meeting
Lovemore N’Dou in a WBC eliminator on the under card of Hokpins-Eastman.
“We are here to show that boxing in Britain isn’t just about mismatches
and fringe titles. There are some of us who like to do things the
traditional way. That means mixing it on the genuine world stage, whenever
and wherever necessary against the likes of N’Dou... The British fan has
been sold short for too long. You have promoters getting their MC’s at
certain shows to announce fights as being for world titles when they are no
better than area clashes. You have the general press getting behind
mismatches but not respecting those who choose to do things the hard and
proper way. The trade press aren’t much better; they rarely criticize any
of our so called ‘world’ champions who hide behind a title that
doesn’t even make you fight a mandatory contender. You have broadcasters
hyping up untested prospects with padded records or falling over themselves
just to show the latest fad. They should all know better. They all have a
responsibility to help re-establish British boxing by getting behind the
right kind of fighter. When boxing is done right nothing can touch it for
popularity. We have all seen that in the past. The Brit Pack are going to
bring those good days back by bringing home genuine major titles. You could
see me challenging for the WBC title later this year.” How’d Mr. Witter
do? Got a unanimous decision (114-112, 114-112, 115-111) and a contract from
Oscar de la Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions. It’s a three fight deal! Drink
to that? In a New York minute!
“Legendary former light heavyweight champion Dariusz Michalczewski
showed up highly motivated, agile and with excellent reflexes on Tuesday
afternoon at a public workout in a big Volkswagon dealership in Hamburg.
While snow was falling outside in the cold city in the north of Germany, a
large crowd of journalists, camera teams, photographers and fans witnessed
the 36-year-old “Tiger” doing shadow boxing and punching on the pads
held by his coach Fritz Sdunek. Michalczewski, 48-1 with 41 knockouts,
clearly displayed the same kind of pressure and tireless offense that
enabled him to hold on the WBO title at 175 lb. for more than nine years and
to defend it 23 times successfully.” That was one Tuesday. On Saturday at
the Color Line Arena in Hamburg before 17,000 streaming fans it was a
different story. The trouble for Dariusz Michalczewski (48-1) started in the
6th when he was the recipient of a barrage of unanswered punches launched by
WBA Light Heavy Weight Champ Fabrice Tiozzo. The man once know as the
“King of the Cruiserweights” fully recovered with the referee stopping
the bout at the 2:15 mark. Funny but seems like just a few months ago that
Michakzewski and Roy Jones jr. were called the “Best in the World.” Now?
Minor footnotes in the sport they dominated. Out with the old in with the
new. Funny old game is boxing. I’ll drink to that.
50 thousand years ago...
PH3- Run 1094
As the Earth slowly emerged from one of its many Ice Ages
the ice belts of the North and South Poles slowly receded and many new lands
emerged. After this thaw the single cell creatures commonly called amoebas
came to life and slowly over the course of the next 50 Thousand Years
evolved into what we now commonly call the Scandi’s. With a lot of nodding
and a language using the word “Ya” as every other word, these lands were
populated with primitive humanoid life forms, one of these groups of nomads
was the dreaded Norwegians. Not content with killing whales and sticking hot
potatoes up their bottoms they started to migrate to warmer climates and
discovered the drinking club with a running problem more commonly known as
the Hash House Harriers.
More recently, in fact two weeks ago. Peler and Timmy
Tight Pants were in hot conversation over where they could set the future
Monday Run. After lots of nodding and Ya Ya’ing they decided to use one of
the PH3’s favorite scenic spots not too far behind Wat Yan, so the spot
was picked and run # 1094 was recced and laid. Arriving at the A site with
General Kidney Wiper riding shotgun, I found only a couple of early birds,
but the site soon filled up with the eager hashers. Sir Chicken F’r and
Chicken Nugget still dressed in his school uniform were some of the early
arrivals, after donning his hash gear he decided to relieve himself, seems
this is a regular event at the hash. I am glad he did not have a number two
like he did a few weeks ago as he was laying his scent pretty close to my
car. Thank God the Hash truck was one of the early arrivals this week as the
weather was hot and I was in need of a cold bottle of H2O, well done
Bottomless Pit, keep it up and you can have the job for life. After the Hash
bus arrived and all the run site sign ups were completed GM Flying Frog
called the pack to order and sent out his spies in search of new shoes. King
Yao Yao was one of the unlucky few, but after seeing the size of his shoes I
think we will either need to stop this tradition or put up the run fees. The
Hares were then called into the circle to give this week’s run details,
now a standard feature of hare Peler was the short cut for the walkers and
wanker’s, pink paper was the sign to look out for the short cut. Then we
were off, trying to decide if it was a left or right hander I held back a
little and let some of the fitter hashers take the lead, Fireman, German
Sheperd, Miserable C, Wank-King and Karamba seem to be taking the running a
bit to serious these days and were well ahead of the more sedate hashers. My
group consisted of Knickerless, Terminal Fourskin, Ringworm and Wheels, a
visitor from the Yorkshire hash. We were soon circling to the left and the
terrain was starting to get a little steeper, about this time the pink trail
was spotted going off to the left. Having to make a difficult choice I opted
for the runners run and slogged up the first of several steep inclines. The
pack was now separating out with shouts of “Ice the B*stards” (Hares) as
we slowly ascended then descended each vertical obstacle, at the top of a
particularly steep one we had a fantastic view of the surrounding country
side. We were soon getting on to a more level plain and up ahead I spotted
Ringworm hobbling along with a twisted ankle and a nasty gash on his knee.
Terminal Fourskin now saw his chance to beat ringworm to the amber fluid and
teased the cripple as he ran by. Up ahead in the distance I could see the
lake and the top of the Hash bus and the end was in sight, five minutes
later I was munching on crisps and drinking soda pop. A good run, the right
length and time with a short cut for the walkers that was not really
necessary for intrepid hashers like Cl*T Face and Dr Pinky who never seem to
lose sight of their objective... the sight of the grog truck. With such a
scenic spot there were plenty of groups of hashers scattered all over the
place, some sitting on the back of pickup trucks with others bringing there
personal deck chairs or mats. Lek was doing a brisk business dispensing out
BLT’s and Hot Dogs aided by Flipper. Sir airhead was trying to get a
couple of the cracks to do a bit of skinny dipping in the lake but with my
limited Thai I could understand they were worried about pond life creeping
up the orifices of the male and female anatomy.
After a good rest and a change into a dry T shirt I was
ready for the circle, but before Flying Frog called the pack to order and
assemble into a circle around the now familiar blocks of Ice, Ringworm was
medivacced by his misses, waving a green medicine bottle in his hand
disappeared in a cloud of dust to shouts of abuse. Before the circle was
fully assembled Spaghetti Head was called in for a cool down, Spag I think
you need to get a new volume control fitted. After dealing with the hares
Sunflower took charge and rapidly filled up all the available ice space with
sinners, it seems that the premature departure of Ringworm with all the
winning raffle tickets caused several delays dispensing out the hash
goodies.
With the GM back in charge Free Willy and Karamba were
summoned for charges of attempted theft and stealing hash trash bags. A.’s
A-hole, Sir Airhead, Dopey and Retard Wanker were iced for various sins, it
seems Retard Wanker is trying to surpass the bad mans record for time spent
each week on the ice. After dealing with Dr Dick this weeks hash trash for
dropping cigarette butts around the A site it was time for a bit of religion
and the bad RA was called into the circle. Sir Airhead soon filled up the
coolest seats in town with this week’s sinners, Karamba and Icy Davidson
were first up with rule six violations for holding each others willies to
stop primitive creatures crawling up when they went in the lake for a bit of
skinny dipping. After the previously unnamed hare was christened Timmy Tight
Pants it was time for the GM to deal with returnee’s and visitors. Again
time for some more religion with the good RA Steamy Lump taking charge,
Extra Testicle was placed on the solitary ice block with Dopey and
Cock-A-Leaky sharing the duplex, it seems that ET’s stylist had an off day
when he visited last week and his new “look” tint was more marble than
the jet black it said on the bottle. The Scandi’s were iced for sending
queer penguins or some thing like that to the Germans, Rudi Voler and
Kloster F**K were iced for accepting them. After that I stopped taking notes
and the only thing else I remember noteworthy was the song by visiting
hasher Wheels.
On On
The Pope
Royal Varuna: marine sports for all
- from children to nonagenarians
Peter Cummins, Photos by
Christoph Hoppen/liquid-images.com
It was, indeed, a busy week at the Royal Varuna Yacht
Club last week, starting with an Optimist beginners sailing course
throughout a week of strong south-westerlies, which tested the juniors
thoroughly.
Then on Saturday, more than 100 Varunians, including many
of the new graduate juniors, set sail for Koh Rin, for the annual
“camp-out”. This is an event eagerly awaited and which underscores, with
much emphasis, the skills of the Royal Varuna Manager, James Padungkit and
the loyal Varuna staff.
Commodores
rally behind Pattaya Mail montage.
The logistics are most challenging, to ensure there is
food, drink and minimum comforts, as well as the all-important factors of
closely guarding the security and safety of all participating. The Varuna
staff, many of whom also camped on the island, were rated “superb” by
the adventurous Robinson Crusoe’s on Koh Rin.
One of the most admirable aspects of sailing and yacht
racing is that, using only Nature’s powers - the wind and the tide - a
sailing craft leaves no flotsam and jetsom in its wake, only pristine
waters. Such marine leisure activities are undoubtedly the most
environmentally-friendly of all mankind’s pursuits.
(l-r) Santi
Kanchanapundu (24th of the line) incumbent commodore, Walter Meyer, Royal
Varuna Yacht Club founder and Angelo Gualtieri sixth commodore (1972-1974).
But this Koh Rin camp-out was more than this. Not only
did the group gather all their own waste for careful disposal, but also as
is the usual practice, they spent considerable time cleaning the beach of
all garbage, leaving Koh Rin much cleaner than they found it.
Finally, Royal Varuna Yacht Club founder, Walter Meyer,
an incredibly clear-minded nonagenarian, gathered a number of Varuna’s
Commodores, including incumbent (24th of the line), Santi Kanchanapundu, for
an evening of reminiscing, fun and joviality at his splendid sea-front home
off Naklua. It was observed during the evening that the Varuna Club was
rapidly approaching the fourth cycle celebration, being founded by Walter of
1 July, 1957.
Hi-jinks on
Koh Rin.
As a magnificent Pattaya sunset painted the western
horizon red and purple, Walter was quick to point out his large powerboat
tugging at anchor, just off the shore. “This is just to dispel any ideas
that I am not a man of the sea”, said Walter, with a large smile, as he
admitted, however, “that I have never been a sailing man”.
Varuanians
clear the rubbish from Koh Rin beach.
During the nostalgic evening, Walter and Varuna Club
honorary treasurer, Angelo Gualtieri, recounted numerous stories of the
halcyon days of a Pattaya long-gone. In those days (the 1960s) the Club
Royal Patron, His Majesty the King, HM the Queen, HRH Crown Prince
Vajiralongkorn and Princess Ubolratana were frequent visitors and, except
for the Queen who liked water skiing. Thailand’s Royal family were all
excellent sailors, with the King and the Princess winning Gold Medals as
equally-first placed in the OK dinghy division of the Fourth Southeast Asian
Peninsular (now the SEA) Games.
Optimist
training: “All Aboard.”
The Commodores presented Walter with a mounted collage of
photos, courtesy of the Pattaya Mail, commemorating the official opening of
the splendid new Varuna Club-house, opened by the Crown Prince on January
13, 2005.
Meantime, back to the ongoing junior training programmes,
utilizing a few notes from Nolan Crawford and Marijke Whitcraft to make an
apt summary of this most important component of Varuna’s sailing and
training endeavours.
 James
Padungkit, Royal Varuna Manager - a great show on Koh Rin.
The Varuna Club offers year-round sailing and training
for children between eight and 14 years of age, for both members and
non-members.
With many of the international schools in Bangkok and on
the Eastern Seaboard, subscribing to these events, Nolan Crawford, one of
the lead instructors, believes that “learning to sail is a great
accomplishment for kids. It develops independence and confidence. The
ability to take a boat, sail it, and be comfortable in the largest treasure
of nature, the sea, gives a great sense of accomplishment to these
youngsters”.
As the former Varuna Junior Sailing Secretary, Marijke
Whitcraft also said, “Sailing is a great alternative to the digital world
children live in today. It gives families a chance to do something active
together, rather than sitting around watching television on the weekends or
hanging around in shopping malls.’
Nothing
like sitting around a fire on an island camp out...
An education specialist looking after the learning
problems of a nine-year-old, asked the mother of this new sailor what she
thought made the change in the child’s rapid school improvements. When she
said the child had gained loads of confidence by sailing, the education
specialist’s answer was “the only advice I can give you now is: keep him
sailing. It is an individual sport that not many others do, thus giving less
gifted children a chance to excel in something very special”.
The course is full of fun activities and games. Apart
from sailing, it teaches the children self-discipline, to look after their
boats, safety and responsibility. They all help each other prepare to go on
the water and, although it is an individual sport, there is a strong team
spirit.
The instructor accompanies the students in a rubber
speedboat from where he/she shouts instructions and keeps a watchful eye on
the fleet. Each on-the-water lesson is accompanied with textbook lessons and
a fun activity to keep the children in a high state of motivation.
The boat used in the course, the Optimist, is the
world’s most numerous one-design craft, with national associations in more
than 80 countries.
This single-handed little dinghy (2.3 m) was designed to
avoid placing excessive physical strain on children and, although sailing
can be strenuous, the Optimist designers wanted to assure that growing
bodies would not be adversely affected by physical strain. Safety has been
foremost, with three buoyancy bags or floatation devices strategically
placed to assure that the boat does not sink. Lightweight, challenging and
fun to helm, the Optimist is the ideal platform to learn.
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