IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Len Jones
Sunday, December 2, the Pattaya Golf Society took to Plutaluang’s North and West nines for a stableford event on a well-prepared course and on a beautiful day.
The competition was destined to be tight and the two Japanese golfers in the field, Masashi Iizumi and Kazu Agune, shared third place with 33 points each. In second came Graham Farrell with a well-worked 34 points whilst the winner was IPGC’s newest member, seven-handicapper Terry Burgess, whose 35 points also gave him the honour of the best gross of the day. It included one of the brace of birdie 2’s, an excellent effort on W8, whilst earlier in the day Jean Morel had enjoyed a tap-in birdie on N6.
The many candidates for the Booby Bevy included a golfer who had forgotten his socks and keys and another who had inadvertently struck his ball whilst trying to identify it, but the honour ultimately went to Graham Farrell who had signed his scorecard only for Mr. Denis to find later his marker had given him the wrong surname! Funny ol’ game, golf.
Top pairs defy Mountain Shadow
December opened in fine style for the Pattaya Golf Society as they took their first weekday fixture to Mountain Shadow on Tuesday.
It was to be a Pairs better-ball stableford event over a course destined to be extremely testing with the blue tees well back, a stiff breeze blowing and green speeds and pin positions the like of which had not been encountered for many a month in the province.
So it was then that the sixteen teams set out, all with high hopes of success. In third place came the teams of Roy Thornton and Rick Holmes and Don Nellis and Stan Kure who tied for the honour with excellent two-under scores of 38 points. In second was the astute pairing of Ray Underwood and Masashi Iizumi who used their higher handicaps to good effect in putting together a score of 39 points.
The day’s winners were Mikael Andersson and Norman Isherwood and their score of 41 points was testament to their skill in the conditions.
Mikael and Masashi shared the healthy 2’s pot with Jim Ferris, Ian Hart and Jim Proctor.
The presentation saw Mr. Len give a warm OK welcome to old friends including Rob Dolan, back after a frustrating few months with an injury. As usual the Booby Bevy was reserved for the least well performing team and on this occasion Jim Proctor and Chris Hardy enjoyed the cool beers.
It had been a fine day’s golf on an excellent and challenging golf course.
Normal service
at Treasure Hill
Treasure Hill was on the agenda for the Pattaya Golf Society on Thursday, December 6 as the group took on the tough course in a stableford event on a day when even the wind conspired to toughen the task.
Greens were quite fast and some of the white tees were at their furthest extent. On the previous outing a rare sub-par round was enough to win the event, so would the same be said this time?
Not for Len Jones and Kazu Agune, who grafted all day for modest totals of 30 points each to give them a share of third place. Neither for Richard Bannister whose introduction to the course held a little promise but his 31 points was to remind him what the game is all about.
David Wilkinson had the honour of the day’s best score, 32 points and his win was a fine tribute to this English golfer. The day’s only birdie ‘2’ was secured on the seventeenth by Michael Dige and Tony Kitchen’s long-awaited return was signalled by his failure to reach the club, blaming a delayed flight via Paris, and therefore he was classed as a “no show” and received the Booby Bevy for his tardiness.
Maybe he was the only sensible golfer on a day when Treasure Hill reasserted its notoriety.

Eastern Star back to its best

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, December 4, Eastern Star, Stableford
This course has recently been known as a fine venue but with terrible greens. Of late great steps have been taken to improve this situation and this is now, in my opinion, by far the best course in terms of quality and class in the Bang Chang area.

Tuesday’s winners with a smiling staff member back at Bert’s.

On this day the weather was fine, if a little blustery, and even with such a hard course to score on, maybe we would get a few good rounds. This is such a defined golf course that it seems difficult to see where the trouble is coming from, and it comes in fact from all over. Start playing bad and it will eat you up, hit a bad shot and you will be in trouble. The first two Par 5’s in particular can destroy your card, and cost you a few balls. Play good shots and you will be rewarded however.
Back at Bert’s the results were announced and we saw that the ‘couples’ had done particularly well. The winner of the A Flight with 36 points was Richard Kubicki with 36 points ahead of Jerry Kurtz in second with 34 points and yours truly (Derek Brook) in third with a ‘good enough’ 30 points on count back over Brian Downey.
The winner of the B Flight, which had better scores, was Don MacPherson with 40 points ahead of Carole Kubicki in second with 37 points and Mark Brenton in third with 36 points ahead of Jack Robertson on count back. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Anders Pederson, Derek Brook, Mark Brenton, Don MacPherson
Long Putt: Les Burns, Anders Pederson

Scotland’s ‘Braves’ take the honors

Golf news from the Pattaya Bowling Green

Gareth Weeks
Monday, December 3, Eastern Star - White Tees, Stableford
Eastern Star was the venue for the first of the week’s stableford competitions.
A group of 15 golfers left the Bowling Green with several new participants all looking to scramble a victory, with the staff at Eastern Star very accommodating as always. It was a quick check in and on to the first tee, with a clear run of the course and little to no wind - perfect conditions.

Friday’s winners: Peter Brown, Gareth Weeks and Brad Dodd strike a pose with a Bowling Green staff member.

With far too many names to mention sending their cherished golf balls to the many water hazards on this course, some of them are now hoping that Santa will be bringing them a new box or two for Xmas - along with a new back swing.
The general scoring on the day was at second division levels, but they say the cream always rises to the top and taking first place with a fine 37pts and playing with the touches of a master pickpocket around the quick greens was Alex (36 H/c). Second on the day was ‘Big’ Alan Griffiths (24 H/c) on 35pts with his driver now back in working order (Hooray, Hooray!) and third spot went to yours truly, Gareth Weeks, (7 H/c) on 34pts
Friday, December 7, Greenwood - White Tees, Stableford
Friday we were joined once again by several new players as we headed up the motorway to enjoy a round at Greenwood.
We had visited Greenwood in early November and had found the course in excellent condition, and I would go as far as saying it was probably the best I had ever seen it looking, so the players were keen for a return trip and were not to be disappointed. I know the journey is a tedious one to this venue but one well worth the extra miles as the greens and fairways here will take some beating and as value for money goes, it’s high on the top of our list.
On the day we were given the A & B Nines to play and after a short wait on the first tee we were into the round. With super greens that were holding long iron shots and fairway conditions perfect, many players were looking to shoot the day’s winning scores.
Later, whilst enjoying a post round cool beer in the clubhouse, the winners were announced and taking the day’s top spot was Peter Brown “Rolex” with a fine 39pts. In second was yours truly, Gareth Weeks with 37pts and third place went to newcomer Brad Dodd with 35pts. So both of this week’s top spots went to the Scots, well done boys!
The Bowling Green would like to welcome any new players interested in joining us for our golf outings. We meet every Monday & Friday at 8:00am for breakfast with transport to the courses provided.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Derbies-a-plenty

Before we get started, Coventry City announced that they’re about to go into administration in the week.
“The board of Coventry City Football Club can confirm that it has today filed in court notices of intent to go into administration,” read a club statement. “This is merely a legal process protecting the bank and its creditors , blah blah blah” said someone in a suit.
Yet another club in big trouble – this time to the tune of 38 million pounds, THIRTY EIGHT MILLION POUNDS! How on earth does it happen?
I never even liked Coventry very much – let’s be honest, only people from Coventry have much feeling for Coventry – and yet I still had certain respect for them in the 1980’s as they perfected the art of being generally hopeless whilst still managing to escape relegation season after season. They were the plucky underdog mixing it with the big boys. They were the working man’s Southampton.
I hope it works out for them. Anyway onto the Premier League, and ooh, who’d have thought it? The only two unbeaten records in the Premier League disappeared in a puff of smoke over the weekend, and in such unlikely circumstances.
Liverpool’s was the first to go. I’ve made a point of avoiding watching them in recent weeks after they stole several hours of my life playing the teeth-clenchingly dull brand of football that has become their way under Rafa Benitez in the last couple of years, but, feeling charitable, decided on giving the Reds another shot at the weekend.
Not that I have anything against Liverpool in particular, you’ll understand. I just can’t get my head around the constant rotation of players that seems so fashionable at the club. The other day I heard a comparison of Liverpool of today against the great team of yesteryear, and it turns out the teams of the old days actually played MORE games than their current counterparts, given all the replays and two-legged league cup games. Ok, so the game is a lot quicker than it was back then, but it certainly makes you wonder whether Rafa’s obsession with player rotation is really quite so necessary. Why not just play the best ones until they’re knackered, and THEN give them a rest?
I can’t see any benefit in rotating everybody if it means bore-draws and a lack of understanding amongst an ever-changing team. Surely a club with an eye on winning the title for the first time in who knows how long should know its best eleven? To Crouch or not to Crouch, that is the question.
They were unbeaten in the league though, which is mightily impressive going into December. Whilst all good things come to an end, a seemingly easy jaunt down to loveable underdogs Reading to pick up three points turned into anything but, as Liverpool were undone by a spirited performance from the home side.
There was some thrilling football on offer and Reading capitalised on Liverpool’s weaknesses to give them an almighty shock. Well done Reading, and for Liverpool this jury is still out. I still reckon someone could give them an extremely close run for the all-important fourth spot later in the season. For their own benefit that might be a good thing.
Could that side be Middlesbrough? Well no, of course, but if you’d just landed from outer space on Sunday you’d be forgiven for thinking that the Riverside club are a force to be reckoned with at the very top of the league. They were fantastic against Arsenal and fully deserved the three points they took from the game.
Strange team, Middlesbrough. I remember Chelsea at their peak having a few difficulties beating them on more than one occasion, and yet they’re something of an also-ran in the league every year. Why do they appear so motivated in certain games that Brazil of 1970 would have a tough time getting a result, and then the rest of the time they’re average at very best?
If you can answer that one there’s a job waiting for you. The one problem is that, in a recent study by television show “Location, Location, Location” Middlesbrough was voted as the least desirable place to live in Great Britain. It would be made slightly better if their football team could perform week in and week out.
Portsmouth, meanwhile, beat Aston Villa, and you have to think that it’s Harry Redknapp’s men who are most likely to upset the order at the top come May. They’re a great side to watch and fully deserve their lofty league position. Manchester City, meanwhile, came unstuck at Tottenham, the London side’s first win since about February. West Ham had a nice little result away at Blackburn, but frankly I’ve had enough of talking about last week.
Onto this weekend, and with respect to everybody else it’s all about Sunday. Sit yourself down with the company of a couple of females that speak limited English and are happy to fetch you drinks, which apparently are plentiful in Thailand, and take in two of the biggest games of the season. First up it’s Manchester United travelling across the M62 to Anfield to try and stick the boot in on a shellshocked Liverpool, and then straight afterwards it’s the London equivalent as Arsenal host Chelsea. Nice.
What other Premier League fixtures are on, I hear you cry? Well on Saturday there are two more local squabbles in this weekend of derbies as Manchester City ‘welcome’ Bolton and Wigan take on Blackburn. Birmingham play Reading, Derby host Middlesbrough, Aston Villa go to Sunderland and West Ham play Everton.
The two I like the look of are Portsmouth against Spurs on Saturday and then the later kick off that sees Newcastle at Fulham, but then I’m the sort of fool that keeps tuning in to watch Liverpool hoping for entertainment, so don’t listen to me.
Beckham mania
hits NZ
David Beckham’s recent visit to Australia and New Zealand has prompted an outburst of strange behaviour from the locals. The LA Galaxy star left a half-empty Coke bottle in a restaurant that has already fetched bids of 4,000 New Zealand Dollars (around 95,000 Baht) and even a half-eaten corn on the cob is also up for grabs.
Redknapp: “It does my head in”
“What was the explanation for such behaviour? They can’t take losing. It’s nonsense. What upsets me, what hurts me is when a fan, with a little kid next to him, is shouting out, making filthy gestures. They should be ashamed as a parent to do that. When I see people doing that it turns me. It stinks. It does my head in.”
Harry Redknapp reacts to taunts from home fans at Villa Park on Saturday.
Watch out, northerners
If you’re a supporter of any mid-sized football team in the north of England you should be afraid this week. Very afraid.
Former Newcastle United chairman and man of the people Freddy Shepherd is closing in on a deal to buy a club in the near future. Shepherd pocketed more than 37 million pounds from his sale of stock in Newcastle in June, with a seven-figure package also believed to have been agreed after he left the board later in the summer.
He is seeking a route back into football and said there were “half-a-dozen clubs” offering him takeover opportunities, and Shepherd has made no secret of his desire for that to be a local team. “Football’s a drug, and a powerful drug,” he said. “From January I think something could happen. I’m a northern guy, so obviously I’m more interested in northern clubs.”

Ken shows golden touch at Eastern Star

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, December 3, Burapha, Stableford
Div A (0-17)
1st Steve Nowell (9) 36pts
2nd Ken Little (14) 36pts
3rd Bob Philp (8) 34pts
4th Keith Smithson (0) 34pts
Div B (18+)
1st Jingjo O’Neill (36) 38pts
2nd Ray Luttman (36) 38pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 37pts
4th Frank O’Neill (18) 35pts
The more we come here, the better they treat us. We teed off bang on time on yet another good day at this excellent course. The weather was stunning but the swirling strong wind made club selection and direction extremely difficult from the white tees on C & D course, resulting in nobody in the ‘A’ division bettering their handicap.
Keith Smithson, a teaching pro from the UK, also struggled with his putting on the tricky greens. Our captain Bob showed a welcome return to a bit of form at the start of the new monthly ladder after finishing bottom in November.
There were two 2’s from Bob Philp & Tony Duthie and it should have been three but for Ben Findon’s careless mistake causing the ball to move whilst addressing it with his putter.
Friday December 7, Eastern Star, Stableford
Div A (0 -12)
1st Jim Wickstrom (2) 35pts
2nd Steve Moreton (4) 33pts
3rd Richard Whittington (5) 30pts
Div B (13 – 19)
1st Ken Little (14) 41pts
2nd Don Francis (13) 37pts
3rd Jerry Hough (18) 32pts
Div C (20+)
1st Trudy Chadbourn (27) 36pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 32pts
3rd Dennis Persson (22) 31pts
Thirty-four outbackers made the trip to Eastern Star, a popular course today with Jomtien Golf in front of us and The Bunker following on behind. The wind that has been with us for a while now, continued to test the best of golfers but in the ‘A” division our single handicappers showed their class taking all the top places.
The outstanding score of the day came from Ken Little scoring 41pts who mastered the slick (10 on the stimpmeter) greens. Trudy Chadbourn took the honours in the 3rd Division with an excellent 36pts, trouncing Barry into second place by 4 clear points.
There were three 2’s today, from Jim Wickstrom, Barry Chadbourn & Ken Little. The Hat went to Brian Mills for his 19 points playing off 19 H/cap, don’t give up the day job Brian!
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com.

Ladies dominate at Phoenix

Phoenix Members Golf Group

Mike Gerrard & Ron Bridge
Sunday, December 2, Stableford
It was another lovely day at Phoenix Golf Club for the regular attendants of our social handicap day.

Sunday’s winners: Niels Johananesson (man in the mask), Bibbi Wimmerstedt and Vibeke Poulsen.

This turned out to be a bit of a “terrorist attack” day today though with our winning score breaking all records. This in turn created another record for the most shots a player has been cut in handicap in one game (Believe it or not 17 shots, from 30 to 13) - I am not telling what the score was.
But the mask was awarded to Niels Johananesson, along with the champers and flutes, with the runner up and third prizes of wine going to Bibbi Wimmerstedt and Vibeke Poulsen respectively.
Technical prizes went to Thomas Pouslen, Paul Lavender, Mike Gerrard and Bibbi Wimmerstedt whilst the Lucky Draws went to Jorn Lillilund and Angela Poustie
Wednesday, December 5,Stableford
Our Wednesday group welcomed some new guests and some old friends. We are a truly cosmopolitan bunch and we play a mixed competition in two flights in order to provide enjoyable competition across a wide spectrum of abilities. Our emphasis is social golf with a competitive edge, all of us like to win and we maintain a Congu Handicap based system in order to provide a challenge in terms of what it takes to win. Currently, the ladies are difficult to beat and that seems to be the case amongst other Pattaya based bars and society golf.
Today we had twenty-eight players - one group short of our maximum. The B Flight winners were in first Jorn Lilleleund with 37 points off 28 handicap, second was Thomas Paulsson with 37 points off 18 handicap (beaten on count-back), and in third was Vibeke Poulsen with 34 points off 32 handicap.
In the A Flight top spot went to the ever competitive Mayo Deane with 39 points off 14 handicap, second was the equally difficult to beat Prakong Robinson with 36 points off 17 handicap and third was Steen Poulsen with 36 points off 12 handicap (beaten on count-back).
Technical awards went to Niel McCallister, Mike Poustie, Lasse Eriksson and Bengt Ohrm.
What does it take to beat these ladies these days? Play better, chaps!

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

With a spectacular, picture perfect left hook, WBC welter champ Floyd Mayweather jr. sent Ricky Hatton, and the hopes of his fans, to the canvas last Saturday night in Las Vegas. Hatton would beat the count but succumb to the follow up barrage forcing referee Joe Cortez to stop the fight at the 1:35 mark of round 10.
The knockout probably saved the venue and Las Vegas from a good old ‘Mother Country’ type soccer riot had the fight gone to the scorecards. Official scoring thru 9 rounds had Mayweather jr. leading by 8, 8 and 7 points respectively in a fight that was a hell of a lot closer than that. The Square Ring, fueled by the usual liquid eye enhancer, had Mayweather by 2.
It was a good fight because as predicted Hatton made Mayweather jr. fight his fight. Hatton was able to apply pressure, score inside and in general turn the bout from a “dancing with the stars show” into a prize fight. Who would have thunk it? Maybe ‘The Square Ring?’
Mayweather jr. was able to adjust his style, landing just enough clean shots to win rounds, which in turn allowed him to subtly control the action.
“I was doing alright until I slipped,” said Hatton. “I gave it my best, but when it got to round five or six and the point got taken off, I thought to myself I have to put my foot on the gas and I left myself open. I think I put my foot on the gas too much and he got me.”
In pre-fight conversation the “wrap” on referee Joe Cortez by his critics always came up with, “He favors Latin boxers, sometimes sees things that don’t happen and can be heavy handed. But not to worry as neither boxer is Latin.”
Well golly me, I didn’t know that Mayweather jr. was Latin. In the first six rounds of the fight Joe Cortez couldn’t have done a worse job. He was terrible in the biggest fight in ages. Taking a point from Hatton in the 6th round ought to qualify Joe for a seat on the sidelines for any future fight of any importance. He continually interfered, stopping the action needlessly.
The fabulous city in the desert called Las Vegas by some, but “Las Wages” by many, was a study in contrasts in the days leading up to Ricky Hatton - Floyd Mayweather jr. fight. In town were more than 175,000 rodeo fans for the annual National Finals Rodeo 11-day Run. There were guys in big hats and belt buckles and of course the gals that chase them. They’re called “Buckle Bunnies.”
Added to the mix in this city of almost 2 million were 40,000 rabid Ricky Hatton fans from across the “Big Pond” ready to “kill a pint of lager”, show off their favorite football jersey (Man U and City seemed to be the choice), their tattoos, earrings and lack of a good dental plan at home.
One could write that the only language not heard in the jammed packed casino was American. Unlike other major sporting events in Vegas, the two diverse cultures existed in harmony, content in their own worlds.
Having been out among them on two occasions the primary question was, “Can Ricky win?” asked of anyone that would care to answer. The consensus was “yes … maybe”. That was usually followed by a Vegas horror story.
With a venue seating less that 17,000 (actual attendance was 16,400 and change), many came over without tickets and none were available for less than 10 times face value. That left a large majority of “Ricky Fans” buying closed circuit tickets, paying anywhere from $80 to $150USD - the PPV for home consumption was $54.95 thank you very much.
Most of the horror stories originated from hotel rooms paid for well in advance but “unavailable” when the guests arrived. Never does this column mention a Las Vegas casino by name. This is an exception. A good friend from England booked two rooms at Caesar’s Palace the day the Hatton - Mayweather jr. fight was announced. Using a credit card his rooms were fully paid in advance. When he and his party arrived the Wednesday night before the fight they were informed, “We had to refurbish your rooms and they won’t be available until Sunday night. We’ve booked you at another hotel.”
Way to treat visitors Caesars Palace.
‘The Square Ring’ was ready to take ‘Joltin’ Joe Calzaghe to the woodshed for comments he made last week. Cazlaghe wanted a fight with Bernard Hopkins. So what happens? He gets an offer then turns it down.
“To be honest, the offer wasn’t as much as I got for the Kessler fight, so from a business point of view the deal doesn’t make sense for me. Hopkins must really convince me with hard cash that he really wants this fight because I’m not sure he does,” said Cazlaghe.
The Square Ring’s immediate response was, “Joe who cares what you think. Take a hike you Welsh W***er - and don’t come back.”
As with all writers I take this opportunity to extend and revise my remarks. Calzaghe in Vegas for Hatton - Mayweather jr. told our source, “The fight is on.”
It’s getting so a Thai boxer traveling gets less than a gentle welcome these days. Somchai Nakbalee (10-4-1) went to Brisbane to challenge for the IBF Pan Pacific lightweight title against Ranee Ganoy (24-10-2). Love the press report that tried to make the fight sound competitive: “The Thai skillfully out-boxed Ganoy in round one but in round two the IBF Pan Pacific champion found the range for his lethal right hand and left hook and dropped his opponent twice. Referee Cyril Cairns crowned Ganoy the winner at 2:17.”
While on the subject of losers, Antonio Tarver won a fight against no one and then proclaimed, “We’re back.” Yo Antonio, “We’re back?” You got a mouse in your pocket?
Even at that Tarver will have to go some to beat Peter Buckley who was outscored recently in a bout at the Café’ Royal in London. The loss dropped Buckley to 31-248-11 and 80 in a row. Got to love the job the British Boxing Control Board does. Note to Buckley, maybe this box fighting thing may not be your cup of tea.
Favorite writer Joe K had a good’un: “Japanese minimum prospect Suguru Takizawa (13-1) impressively knocked out Chansaknoi Sakrungruang (6-8-1) of Thailand at 2:43 of the second.” Little problem here though Joe with Sakrungruang’s record: Officially he’s 1-3 with the last three losses coming by KO in round 2. When comments extended and revised maybe not so “impressive.”
As predicted last week in this space, at the Kings Hall in Belfast unbeaten middleweight John Duddy (23-0) continued to build his reputation with a “difficult” 10-round (96-94) win over veteran Howard Eastman (42-6). Sean Russell was referee, judger and jury.
The night before, Amir Khan (16-0) took on Graham Earl (25-4) in the Bolton Arena in England. A British boxing fan sitting at the Sake Bar in the Imperial Palace in Las Vegas said, “This will be Amir’s toughest fight.” The Lord of ‘The Square Ring’, fueled by many a goodly amount of Miller Genuine, scoffed. The Lord of the Manor scored again as it took Amir only 74 seconds to secure the KO.
Fighting in Basel, Switzerland, “King” Arthur Abraham got to 25-0 when he “slaughtered” Wayne Elcock (18-3) over 5. This was the “King’s” sixth defense of his IBF middleweight title he won in 2005 when he beat Kingsley Ikeke via a 5th round KO.
And now here’s Jeeves!
‘Your Lordship, whilst you were putting words together to paint a topographical map of last week’s world of boxing, some communications have arrived and demand your attention. From O.R. Cross comes: “ Howie, aren’t you glad you told Monkey House to bet the pineapple farm on Hatton? What a great left hook! Not the first time he’s lost the farm.”’
Yes it was a great left hook - One for the ages.
‘Also Your Lordship, The Flying Frog writes: “What a great fight Mayweather - Hatton, my bet was on Mayweather. Hatton was great and was in the best shape of his life and did a very good performance, fighting aggressive, losing a point in the 6th round but fighting too open, no protection. Mayweather is deadly, as he realized that in the 10th. Hope there will be a rematch, if not Cotto - Mayweather for the big bucks??”’
Doubt there will be a rematch Patrick. Mayweather jr. is smart enough to know that he got by Hatton and the second time would be no charm. The only possibility would be outside at Wembley Stadium where 90,000 could attend. Even with 90,000, the pay-per-view, which may have hit as much as 2 million, would be considerably less next time. This was probably a “one off.” Cotto? Not really sure that either camp wants that fight.
‘Your Lordship, another reader wrote in, “Hats off to Mayweather - he showed today he is a true champion boxer. The seven inches reach advantage shouldn’t be discounted though - he was able to pick Hatton off every time he tried to get close. Disappointed Hatton lost but it was still a very good fight to watch. PS: Sorry some of our boys booed your national anthem. I think it was more high spirits and too many spirits (or beer) consumed on the day rather than anything malicious.”
There’s an old saying that tigers attack because they’re tigers. English soccer hooligans boo everything because they are English soccer hooligans. On the other hand “God Save the Queen” was sung by superstar Tom Jones; The American national anthem meanwhile was sung by a second-rate, no talent, never heard from before or after “nobody” doing his own interpretation.
One thing that Hatton said in the post fight press conference can’t be discounted. He was asked about fan support: “I used to come to Las Vegas to see my heroes, Naseem Hamed, Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen support for a British fighter like what they’ve given me this week.”
The truth is that Mayweather jr. has no fan base, without Hatton’s fans the fight would have drawn maybe 7,000 rather than the maybe 30,000 that bought tickets for the live fight and PPV at various casinos. Boxing needed Hatton to win and he didn’t. What does the future hold for Hatton?
“As far as my own career, Ricky “Fatton” will be back.”
‘Your Lordship, with your lager and cigars I deliver a little information for you to digest. On December 5, to celebrate the King’s 80th year, the UBC televised the big world amateur Muaythai championship and then an S1 fight. That same date also marked the 32nd anniversary of the presidency of the WBC by Dr. Jose’ Suliaman. How about that?’
Celebrating two kings at one time, Jeeves. Life is good.

Ditrich and Beaumont win again

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Monday,December 3,Greenwood
Today was the trip north to the very well manicured course of Greenwood for a stableford competition. With a large number of golfers we split the group into two divisions and both divisions produced some spectacular golf with about 30% of the field all scoring below par rounds.

The dynamic duo of Graham Ditrich and Graham Beaumont.

In division two, Bruce Tollit scored 37 points to finish in third place, in second place with 40 points was Ramsay Smith, but the winner by way of count back was Doug Carysforth also with 40 points. Doug, who was probably the oldest member playing on the day at 74 years of age, gave his younger competitors a golfing lesson. Well done Doug!
The biggest prize winner of the day was Chris Platten with the only ‘2’ of the day and to make it extra special it was a rollover so Chris had the last laugh at the presentation.
Friday, December 7, Plutaluang, 2 Ball Scramble
Friday we travelled to Plutaluang golf course for a 2-Ball Texas scramble. This is always very popular and with 36 golfers signing up, and with new and old partnerships forming, it was hard to pick a winner.
As it transpired, the tried and tested winning double act of Graham Beaumont and Graham Dietrich came out on top again with a net 66.7. Chasing the leaders home but still a few shots adrift were the team of Chris Platten and Roger Moore with 69.9 net, a distant third place went to the team of Darrel and Sal with a net 73.7.

Strong wind blows players off course

PSC golf with the Three Sisters Bar

Tuesday December 3, Pattaya C.C., Stableford
It was a windy day with the cool winds blowing out of the north. The course should have been dry with the ball running but it seems like they watered the course all night just for us. It was wet and the white tees were set back with the blue tee markers.

Tuesday’s winner Paul Kraft, right, with Tom Buckley.

Needless to say, no one managed to play to their handicap. It was murder as the wind blew the drives off the fairways and in to the rough.
Coming in first was long timer Paul Kraft with 34 points in a round that included four blank holes. Not bad for the conditions. Paul beat out Tom Buckley on count back as both came in with the same score. Coming in third place was Brian Orr with 32 points while the rest of the field just faded away with the north winds.
It was a struggle on the course but the beers tasted good later at Caddy Shack Two.

House of the Golden Coin retain top spot

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

The 200 bowlers from the Monday and Friday leagues.

Barry Hooper
The second week of this new league season was a relatively low scoring affair with conditions obviously found to be quite hard by most players.
Only three 200+ games were recorded on the day – those by Suphan, Bill and Mai.
Two teams produced convincing four to nil wins: Diamond Shop and Sabia Friday which moved both of them up the standings. All the others matches were three to one wins:
Mai for Jack & Tar had the high series of the day with a 594 followed by Bill Key (Diamond Shop) on 572 and Kran (Café Kronberg) 541
Highest team series went to Diamond Shop with 1,739 followed by Jack & Tar with 1674 and Café Kronberg with 1672

Good scores abound at Greenwood

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, December 3, Greenwood A & B, Stableford
Greenwood was the venue for a stableford event in two flights with the cut made at handicap 19. The course on the day was in excellent condition with the exception being the condition of the bunkers which were un-raked.

Jean Claude Hoste was the top scorer at Greenwood with 41 points.
Mike Winfield took the A Flight with 40 points with Walter Bachli in second on count back over Dave Richardson in third, both 39 points. In fourth was Rich Montana with 38 points.
Jean Claude Hoste took the B Flight with 41 points on count back over Chris Borret in second while P.Singh Basi was in third on count back over Kevin Dinan in fourth, both with 40 points.
All in all it was a day of tremendous scores in ideal conditions on a fine course.
Near Pins: Rick Wittenton, Richard Kubicki, Steindor Eidsson, Graham Buckingham
Long Putt: Einar Johannson, Ebrahim.
Thursday, December 6,Eastern Star,Stableford
See what happened on Monday - the players had a field day. Now the same, or essentially the same group of players were going to a course that we all know is really tough. The question was - how would they hold up? The answer was not very well. Reality is sometimes a nasty thing.
This course is a toughie, despite the fact that at present it is in really good condition. It looks like a ‘proper’ golf course, with 18 holes, fine fairways and fast hard greens that for once are in good condition.
Mind it is a golf course that you can play well on, however you must be in good form and play good shots (so what else is new?) Play a bad shot here and you will not get away without being punished. On this day with a light breeze how would the scores be? Well the answer was pretty bad - in fact very bad.
In the A Flight, 0 to 18, the winner was Roger Strine with 33 points ahead of Don Richardson with 32 points in second and in third was Walter Bachli, also with 32 points but losing second on count back..
In the B Flight the winner was Jan Lovgren with 36 points ahead of J.C Lhoste in second with 34 points and in third was Brendan Byrne with 32 points on count back over Kevin Dinan and Chris Borrett.
T.T.F.N
Near Pins: Roger Strine (2), Ebrahim, Bob Rasmusson
Long Putt: Bent Moeller, Walter Bachli

Tight finish forces four-way count back at Century

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Tuesday, December 4, Century Chonburi - White Tees, Stableford
1st Steve Black (27) 33pts
2nd Roy Pimblett (20) 33pts
3rd David Gardner (7) 33pts
4th Geoff Moodie (27) 33 pts

Bob Drumm pictured with the new sponsor’s golf shirt.

Eleven players turned out at this course, which was reported to be in good condition, and the average score for the day was 28 points.
It was tight at the top with four players returning 33 points with the result therefore decided on a four-way, back nine count back.
Allan Cassin claimed two near pins, the other two being left to the course. The longest first putt on the 18th green was slotted by Bob Drumm.
Thursday, December 6, Plutaluang S & E - White Tees, Stableford
1st Ray Allison (15) 37pts
2nd Bruce Lawrence (10) 35pts
3rd Willie Nachbar (24) 34pts
4th. Dennis Jaycock (16) 34pts
5th. Mike Brooke (24) 30pts
6th Jeff Wylie (7) 29pts
A larger than usual group of twenty players turned up to play at this ever-popular venue on Thursday. The also very popular Paradise Bar on the banks of the gulch Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) has stepped in to sponsor a weekly golf shirt prize for the person playing the most golf on the day.
In the interests of preserving his anonymity, the winner of the day declined to be pictured and therefore we picture Bob Drumm with his lovely new golf shirt instead. What a surprise, Bob is more normally in the list of winners. Who is going to bag next week’s shirt we wonder?
Jeff Wylie took three near pins, carelessly leaving one behind for Dennis Jaycock. Jacq Thivault had the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the group’s format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

Frank gets a ‘Hole in One’

PSC Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
The story of the week has to be the Hole-in-One on Saturday at Eastern Star by our golfer of the month for November – Frank Kelly.

(Main Photo) Saturday winners: Andy Galvin, Frank Kelly, Alan Evans, Amphan North, Jim Cadigan and Fergus Brennan. (Inset) ‘Hole in One’ Frank Kelly in party mode.

He produced this on the par-three 17th hole with a fine drive, which I was informed was with a “Ping G5 driver”. One small bounce and in the hole it went. Congratulations Frank from all your fellow players.
Frank was seen to ring the bell back at the Travellers Rest not once but three times on our return for celebrations. An expensive event but probably a once in a lifetime occurrence for Frank.
Monday, December 3, Khao Kheow - Yellow Tees, Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Bob Dearnley (14) 34pts
2nd Mike Wardman (12) 34pts
3rd Stephen McGrath (10) 31pts
4th Bob Richardson (13) 31pts
B Flight (15-up)
1st Jackie MacPherson (21) 37pts
2nd Eddie Towsend (17) 35pts
3rd John O’Leary (16) 30pts
2’s: Brendan Moore, Keith Marsden
Near Pins: Brendan Moore, Stuart Rogers, John Pergryn, Keith Marsden
Play for the week started on Monday at Khao Kheow where Bob Dearnley picked up the A Flight with a count back 34pts from Mike Wardman. The B Flight saw a two-point win for Jackie MacPherson with 37pts over Eddie Townsend in second on 35pts.
Tuesday, December 4, Phoenix, Stableford
A Flight (0-15)
1st Ray Allison (14) 42pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (11) 39pts
3rd Amphan North (15) 36pts
4th Dick Whittington (5) 33pts
B Flight (16-21)
1st Eamon Murtagh (16) 36pts
2nd John O’Leary (16) 34pts
3rd Peter Harris (16) 32pts
4th Eddie Towsend (17) 32pts
C Flight (22-up)
1st Patrick Browne (27) 40pts
2nd Ann Hiranya (30) 34pts
3rd Alan Evans (24) 33pts
4th Alan Webber (23) 29pts
Tuesday and off to the Mountain and Lakes at Phoenix we went with an excellent turnout and three full flights.
C flight saw Patrick Browne win convincingly with 40pts over second placed Ann Hiranya with 34pts and Alan Evans 33pts. B Flight meanwhile went to Eamon Murtagh with 36pts, two points clear of John O’Leary in second and a further two points clear of third placed Peter Harris.
The A Flight saw a three-point win for Ray Allison with 42pts over organiser Fergus Brennan on 39pts and Amphan North in third on 36pts.
The 2’s and Near Pins were all shared around.
Thursday, December 6, Bangpra, Stableford
A Flight (0-15)
1st Mike Wardman (12) 37pts
2nd Phil Knight (12) 36pts
3rd Ray Trembath (12) 35pts
4th Stuart Thompson (12) 35pts
B flight (16-21)
1st Jackie Macpherson (19) 38pts
2nd Andy Galvin (21) 36pts
3rd Eamon Murtagh (16) 33pts
4th Harvey Samuel (19) 32pts
C Flight (22-up)
1st Alan Evans (26) 37pts
2nd Jack Robertson (25) 36pts
3rd Nijole Murtagh (26) 34pts
4th Alan Webber (22) 33pts
Near Pins: Mod Chariraksa, Jackie MacPherson, Donald Pearson, Patrick Brown
2’s: Jackie MacPherson, Patrick Browne, Fergus Brennan
Thursday saw three flights at Bangpra. C Flight witnessed a one-point win for Alan Evans 37pts from Jack Robertson 36pts and Nijole Murtagh on 34pts. B Flight had another of our regular lady players, Jackie MacPherson, take the win with 38pts from Andy Galvin on 36pts with Eamon Murtagh another three points back in third.
The A flight saw Mike Wardman 37pts take a one-point win over Phil Knight 36pts in second and Ray Trembath returned a count back 35pts for third.
Saturday, December 8, Eastern Star, Stableford
A Flight (0-18)
1st Amphan North (15) 38pts
2nd Frank Kelly (14) 38pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (11) 37pts
4th Phil Knight (12) 37pts
5th Mod Chaviraksa (14) 34pts
B Flight (18-up)
1st Aalan Evans (26) 38pts
2nd Jim Cadigan (22) 34pts
3rd Andy Galvin (21) 33pts
4th Don MacPherson (22) 33pts
5th Lars Strom (22) 32pts
Near Pins: Frank Kelly (2), Wayne Crick (2)
2’s: Frank Kelly (Hole in One)
Well as stated at the beginning of the report Eastern Star on Saturday the 8th was all about Frank Kelly’s ‘Hole in One.’ But he did not have things all his own way.
Amphan North stole the A flight win from him with a count back 38pts, having scored 21 on the back nine against the 20 back nine for Frank. Fergus Brennan was third with 37 in a count back of his own over Phil Knight.
The B flight went to Alan Evans with 38pts, Jim Cadigan was second on 34pts and Andy Galvin 33pts took third. Awards were made for five places in both flights.
A rule at the TRGG has been that any ‘Hole in One’ automatically takes any 2’s pot so this went to Frank Kelly. The near pins were shared by Frank Kelly (2) and Wayne Crick (2), however Wayne did not return to collect so this has been returned into the Near Pins kitty for the next outing.
Reminder: If anyone is interested in golfing with the Travellers Rest we play every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at 7:45am for breakfast and transportation and new players are always made to feel welcome. Call Tewin on 086 056 7019 for further information.

Pattaya Mail Christmas Classic