HEADLINES [click on headline to view story]:

Koh Larn rows to success in banana boat contest

Level par good enough at Khao Kheow

Ed brings home the ‘Bacon’

Pattaya to host top darts players

Bob Deane flies the flag for America

Pattaya’s Crocks take on the Frogs for challenge trophy

Ek crowned Miss Megabreak 2008

Rain but no damp spirits at Navy

A win for Craig Boyd at last

Putida puts on a show on Valentine’s Day

The Beautiful Game?

Steve shoots 70 ‘off the stick’ but has to settle for third

Leif’s 48-pointer leaves the field trailing

The Square Ring

Herma caps her stay with Khao Kheow victory

Mike proves a little local knowledge goes a long way

Tony Barritt celebrates

The ex-President comes back for the Gold

Green Horde dominates the week

All smiles for Cyril at Pattaya Country Club

Smyth & McGovern topple the champions

Ed, Chris, Danny and Billy are the ‘Big Winners’ at Pattana

Ooy bowls a 279 game

Koh Larn rows to success in banana boat contest

Ariyawat Nuamsawat
A team of rowers from Koh Larn won the Banana Boat Rowing Competition, a colorful event that made its debut on January 25 at Jomtien Beach.

Competitors took
part enthusiastically
in this new, colorful event
on Jomtien Beach.

The contest was organized by the Jomtien Beach Rowing Association in cooperation with Pattaya City, and designed as a novel form of marine leisure that will attract visitors to future events.
Two categories were devised for the contest. One category was a straightforward event with four oarsmen per boat, which saw a total of 25 teams taking part. The other category had two oarsmen per boat, one of who was blindfolded with his companion directing him: 21 teams took part in this category.
Predictably, the races created much amusement and enthusiasm amongst the crowds of spectators on the beach. Most of the competitors were Jomtien boat operators, joined by windsurfers from the Thai national team and the Korean national team.
The banana boats, so called because of their banana-shaped profile, were rowed over a distance of 150 meters for both categories.
The results of the competition saw the Koh Larn inhabitants winning the championship in both events.

Phoenix Golf Club Members Group

Mike Gerrard
Sunday, February 17, Ocean & Mountain - Stableford
How nice it will be when all of the tourists have gone home. The course was rammed to capacity today and a slow game was inevitable. It would not be so bad if someone would tell these people that a canteen break is not part of a day’s golf at every drinks stop. Ah well, at least it’s not cold hanging around.
It’s not so bad though when you consider the weather was set fair with a nice breeze blowing over the course from the sea and after the recent unusual rainfall of the last week the course was looking green and splendid.
This proved to be an important part of the game today. With the fairways lush and green there was not so much run on them and most of the second shots were a little longer than normal. Hence scores today were not so good.
A slightly smaller field today due to the Scandinavian contingency of our group playing in a tournament near Bangkok, and so 5 groups set out to the challenge of the Ocean and Mountain course.
Winner today was our newly appointed Friday captain, Bob (sporting a new beard) Deane, who carried off the champers and flutes. In second was Niels Johannessen and in third was Fleming Jensen. Both runners up received a nice bottle of red wine each.
Technical prizes went to Prakong Robinson, Brian Chaloner (2 super tee shots on different holes) and Paul Lavender.
Our lucky draw winners today were Winnie Knudsen and always lucky, Jorn Lillilund.
Next week sees the start of an additional days golf in our calendar. As well as the existing Sunday, Wednesday and Friday golf, every Thursday will be Men’s Day. Same time, same place, with limited spaces and guests limited to 1 per active Phoenix Member. Registration will be by prior arrangement and closed at 11.30 am in the restaurant at Phoenix Golf Club. For more information and registration for this day’s golf please call me (Mike Gerrard) on 08 709 17565.

Pattaya’s Crocks take on the Frogs for challenge trophy

ChefsXP Veterans Challenge Trophy

The Pattaya Crocks line up before their match last weekend.

The second clash for the ChefsXP Challenge Trophy took place on February 16 in the superb surroundings of the Horseshoe Point Resort in Pattaya. The trophy, which has been sponsored by Khun Sorot Chamlongsupalak of ChefsXP, was in the possession of the Winking Frog Vets and in the spirit of the rules of the trophy Jim Howard had issued a challenge on behalf of the Pattaya Crocks.
With the help of Rick “ Fabio “ Bryant, who managed the Crocks team on the day, a strong squad had been assembled with the bulk of the team being drawn from players of the Pattaya City F.C., which plays in the regular MBMG Bangkok Casuals League, augmented by well known local veterans Jim Howard himself, Fabian Arp, John Wyass, Rich Wibrow and even Rick Bryant making a cameo appearance.
The Frog had retained almost all of the players from last month’s trophy winning squad with a few additions including Steve “ Salad Dodger “ Duckworth, Peter “Scud” Rodgers and the doyen of Thailand Vets football, Eralp “E.G.” Gullep.
The match was refereed by Garry Kings who controlled it well despite the lack of linesmen, which did lead to a couple of contentious decisions. However, in keeping with the great spirit in which the match was played, everybody accepted the decisions as given, which is quite unusual in football nowadays!
The match started at a blistering pace with Jim Howard putting in a quick fire 35 second appearance. Mark Coombs in the Pattaya goal was quickly called into action and kept the scores level with a good save from Frog’s main danger man Paul “Bling” Share. As the game progressed the Pattaya midfield, built around Alan Mulberry and Brian Wilkins, gradually established control and there were some fine attempts from Jimmy Deacon and Cliff West before the deadlock was eventually broken by Paul Derbyshire.
The Frog defence was being superbly marshaled by the “Salad Dodger” and Steve Kerr with Joe Connolly and Maz in midfield and Nick Smart and “Bling” upfront.
Half time arrived with the score 1-0 in favour of the Crocks.
The second half started the same way with Jim Howard lasting a full 75 seconds! Play continued to flow from end to end and there was some superb football as both sets of forwards tried hard to score.
Both goalkeepers, Mark Coombs and Derek Wheatcroft, were kept busy but both stood firm and dealt with all that was thrown at them (Derek was seen to drop a can of Heineken but that did not affect the final result!) and they defied all the efforts from the attackers.
The Crocks defenders continued their dominance and Dave Brown, Darryl Mann and Chris Robertson even found time for the occasional raid forward. The Frogs were not finished and also mustered some good attacks - Maz, Eric and Nick all went close but to no avail.
Derek kept the Crocks from taking a bigger lead with a crushing challenge on Cliff West. The fast pace continued until the final whistle but despite all the effort a single goal was the only reward for all of the afternoon’s efforts.
The trophy was presented by Khun Sorot to Alan Mulberry the Crocks captain and there followed the usual mixture of banter, beers and photos around the pool at the Horseshoe Point and the post-match analysis included comparison to the FA Cup ties that were to be played later that night.
An enjoyable afternoon all round, the ChefsXP trophy will now stay in Pattaya until the “ Pattaya Crocks” are challenged and beaten - but it will not be given up easily.

The Winking Frog Vets relinquished their trophy
after going down 1-0 to Pattaya’s ‘finest’.

Ek crowned Miss Megabreak 2008

Black ball thriller decides who is this year’s ‘queen of the blue baize’

Peter Morton
Megabreak Pool Lounge in Soi Diana Inn was host to the “Miss Megabreak 2008” eight-ball pool contest last Saturday evening, February 18, and fifty-three of the hottest lady pool players from around Pattaya and Bangkok converged to compete for this now, coveted title!

Ek won a black ball thriller in the final frame to win the title “Miss Megabreak 2008.”
The pressure was on the players from the start and the collective support from boyfriends, husbands and friends alike was overwhelming throughout the evening.
Tasty snacks were provided for all those in attendance, thanks to the management of Megabreak, and a guest DJ kept the venue pumping all night to keep everyone motivated, especially the ladies!
The early rounds were played over the best of three racks and slowly but surely the weaker players were eliminated and soon it was down to the ‘chosen few’.
In the semi-finals both Pim and Aon succumbed to the two in-form favourites, Ek and Dawan and the scene was thus set for a classic showdown between these last two “professional hustlers.”
The first and second racks in the final were slightly scrappy affairs but Ek managed to take them both and looked to be heading towards a commanding 3-0 lead when an uncharacteristic mistake let Dawan in and she promptly reduced the arrears to just one frame.
Undaunted by this, Ek won the next rack to make the score 3–1 but Dawan hung in again and fought fiercely to take the next two racks and level the scores.
At 3-3, with the clock ticking past two thirty in the morning, the pressure was really on and the atmosphere was electric. Finally, after a long and tactical deciding frame in which both girls had chances to win, everything was resting on the last black ball for the magical prize.
Dawan played an excellent safety to leave her opponent in trouble, but with a “long bank” Ek finished the match with an incredible final shot to the uproar of everybody! It was fabulous final, worthy of the any Crucible snooker final in England.
Both girls were congratulated on producing a memorable match and were then presented with their rewards for the evening: the large winner’s trophy and 10,000 baht in prize money to Ek and a runner’s-up trophy and 5,000 baht to Dawan.
Don’t miss the next Megabreak competition. Check the website megabreakpool.com for information on upcoming events.

Fifty-three of the region’s best lady pool players lined up to take part.

Rain but no damp spirits at Navy

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, February 12, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
A Flight (0-18)
1st Jeff Wylie (8) 35pts
2nd Barry Quirck (13) 33pts
3rd Frank Waterhouse (15) 30pts
4th Colin Cronin (18) 30pts
B Flight (19-up)
1st Peter Mills (26) 36pts
2nd Ed Horrocks (31) 31pts
3rd Eyves Philibert (24) 31pts
4th Thong Pimblett (32) 29pts

Thursday’s flight winners (from left to right): David Gardner, Pim Bromsiricha and Owen Walkley.

Booked into an early bird start we gathered for transport at the bar at 06:00 hours. Starting on time, the course in the morning sunshine was as rewarding as ever and the twenty-two of us enjoyed the fast greens even though some of us couldn’t putt on them.
Near pin wins in course order: Neil Duncan (2), Mike Brooke and Barry Quirck. Bob Drumm had the longest first putt on the 18th green and the average score for the day was 28 points.
Thursday, February 14, Plutaluang S & E (White Tees) – Stableford
A Flight (0–15)
1st David Gardner (8) 37pts
2nd Steve Lunt (11) 35pts
3rd Neil Duncan (14) 32pts
4th Bob Drumm (12) 32pts
B Flight (16–24)
1st Pim Bromsiricha (18) 37pts
2nd Peter Fitton (18) 35pts
3rd Keith Hodges (23) 34pts
4th. Rungtip Fronsdall (22) 29pts
C Flight (25-up)
1st Owen Walkley (25) 32pts
2nd Thong Pimblett (32) 30pts
3rd Hans Stronnesdad (29) 28pts
4th. Steve Black (26) 20pts
A very (for us) large group of 30 players participated on Thursday. It was a shame for us but a blessing for the greens keeper and wild life that for the first time this year we got rained on … and heavily. Navy is a wonderment in that the course can turn from being a washed-out disaster into being completely playable no more than five minutes after it stops raining - as was seen before our very eyes on Thursday.
The rain caused six players to not return their cards. Not completing a round is each individual’s decision but in view of the way the course dried out one cannot help but wonder if some of the decisions to quit were made a little prematurely. Despite the rain the average score from the twenty-four cards returned was 27.7 points.
We welcomed several new faces to the group and it is pleasing to see that the newcomers had a good share of the prizes.
Near pin wins in course order Steve Pilcher, Course Fairy, Hans Stronnesdad and Bob Drumm. Ian Campbell sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green and Andy Makara was awarded the Paradise Bar golf shirt in recognition of his enjoying the most golf on the day.
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.

A win for Craig Boyd at last

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Sunday, February 10, The Royal Thai Navy course at Plutaluang welcomed the Pattaya Golf Society for its weekly single flight stableford event and the North and West nines were again the chosen track.
The day stayed humid throughout and those recently returned from Europe found the going difficult. It was to be a day for old hands or old heads.
Paul McNally has yet to play to par off his handicap of 2 and on this occasion he managed to fire the best gross yet again but remained on 33 points to share fourth place with David Thomas and Stan Everingham, the steady Canadian golfer. Ahead of them on 35 points was Phil “PJ” MItchell and he found form at last with a well constructed score which gave him third place.
Sunny Khanna did what he does best, finding success immediately on his return, and his 37 points came despite three day old knee surgery which saw him take a golf cart for probably the first time in his life. But it needed to be turbo-charged to catch the day’s winner, Craig Boyd, whose 39 points has been a long time coming and it was an overdue and welcome win for the amiable Scotsman.
Sunny and “PJ: shared the 2’s pot for their efforts on N3 and W3 respectively and a wilting Jim Bell found comfort in the shape of the Booby Bevy after his dismal “first day back” display.
Perhaps the major shock of the tournament was the demise of perennial Plutaluang prizewinner, Jean Morel, but a glass of red wine encouraged him to comment that he would be back. That he will, along with the many others who enjoy their Sunday PGS golf at Plutaluang.
Parkinson peaks at Eastern Star
Tuesday, February 12, the Pattaya Golf Society headed for Eastern Star to play a stableford competition, this time beginning from the tenth as the course was quite full with seasonal visitors.
The large group got away on time however and a strong wind made the going tough for the two flights, which were divided at fifteen and under. Such is the quality of the golf with the group now that erstwhile competent golfers are finding themselves competing in a flight dominated by players with a larger stroke allowance.
So it was then that Vic Barton put together a score of 31 points for a share of third place in the second flight with the consistent Emiel van der Wiele and Jim Proctor who played his best golf for many a month. Perhaps it was because he was joined by his son and he needed to flex the seniority muscles! In second place was the PGS’ most improved golfer, Kazu Agune, and his 32 points was only one point off the top as compatriot Kazuki Asada took the flight with a score of 33.
In the top flight Richard “Banjo” Bannister and Roy Thornton shared the runners-up place with thirty hard won points, the latter going eight holes and collecting only five points in the process. The flight was easily won by Andy Parkinson who, like a year ago, is hitting the highs prior to returning to UK for more of the devil “work”.
It was a good performance by Andy and he also scored a birdie ‘2’ on the third to join “Banjo” and Kazuki in a share of the 2’s pot.
At the other end of the scale new member Lee Proctor suffered badly in the wind and scratched seven holes. He was reminded at the presentation that this is not what is expected of single-figure handicappers with the PGS and a cool beer served as a reminder that Father would be watching closely next time! Well done lads!
Another successful double-header
Thursday morning, February 14, the OK Corral was buzzing with nearly fifty golfers all anticipating the first of the year’s double headers, a day when the popularity of PGS golf at Crystal Bay was too much and an extra alternative venue had been arranged. The second flight went to Burapha to play stableford off the B and A nines.
At the beautifully maintained latter course, scores were amazingly high with an average of more than 32 points and a large Japanese contingent was represented in the frame by Kinya Akiyama whose 39 points took a share of third place with Richard Bannister and Vic Barton. The joint winners were Brian Talbot and Reid Funderburk who posted scores of forty points.
There were three birdie 2’s and the successful golers were Shuichi Kodaka, Vic Barton and Dave Lehane whilst the Booby Bevy wenty to Vic for his abysmal efforts to get off the first tee.
At Crystal Bay the larger group was ably stewarded by David Thomas and played the B and C combo. Scores there were equally high with Carl Lovatt finding some success with 37 points for fourth place, one behind Peter Blok. In second was Austrian golfer Peter Ditz and the nine handicapper used all his guile in scoring 39 points. It needed more than his two scratched holes however to catch the winner, Rick Schramm and his quality card of 40 points. The Canadian, on leave from his work in South Africa, was untouchable as be played the best round of his life with a gross one over 37 on the back nine.
It was consolation for Peter that he recorded two birdies on B6 and C7 and he shared the pot with Sunny Khanna who had similar success on C3.
It had been a memorable day for the Pattaya Golf Society.

Putida puts on a show on Valentine’s Day

Eastern Seaboard Ladies Golf Club

Thursday, February 14,Burapha – Medal
1st Putida Thongpen (7) net 67
2nd Wongwan Pewins (15) net 68
3rd Payom Durrant (24) net 69
4th Thanasorn Vitaychungtien (12) net 70
Near Pins: D2 Naovarat Khakai; D8 Rich Murphy (guest); C8 Usa Chaisit; C5 Putida Thongpen.
Long Putt (18th): Khun Piek
A group of forty-four lady golfers and a couple of guest male players teed it up at Burapha on Valentine’s Day for the latest outing by the Eastern Seaboard Ladies Golf Club.
Putida Thongpen enjoyed a great round and recorded both the low gross on the day (gross 74) and also the low net (67). She was followed in by Wongwan Pewins just one shot back on net 68 in second and Payom Durrant and Thanasorn Vitaychungtien picked up third and fourth respectively at further one shot increments.
Not faring quite so well but still enjoying the day was Ratana Tuenkum who collected the booby prize for her efforts.

The ladies (and guest gents) from the Eastern Seaboard Ladies Golf Club Valentine’s Day golf outing pose for a group photo.

The Beautiful Game?: Riz Taylor

Game 39 dies a death - for now

Well, thankfully, it seems that the Premier League’s plans for ‘The 39th Game’ have run aground after a series of setbacks in the week since the plan was announced.
I wasn’t being particularly serious when I welcomed the idea last week. It was more the reaction of someone in utter disbelief that such a bizarre plan could have been hatched in the first place.
Of course it would be fantastic to have a couple of Premier League games staged in Bangkok once a year. I’m sure there’d be one or two folks heading up the Expressway to go and see an English league game, even if were Reading against Blackburn, for example. And why not?
But it’s the principle of the whole idea that leaves a sour taste in the mouth. An extra game in the calendar, selected and designed purely to make extra money for a division already wallowing in used banknotes is hardly good news for the football purist.
And that’s the problem. Football fans, love them or loathe them, have been trampled over in recent years as the game continues to put their perspective at the back end of the agenda in the search for ever-increasing revenue.
They’ve done a good job, mind you. The Premier League is indeed the richest in the world, able to pay the most money for the best talent, and let’s be honest the quality of football on offer is all the better for it. Players such as Cesc Fabregas, Dimitar Berbatov or Cristiano Ronaldo that currently earn a living in Britain wouldn’t be gracing our screens were it not for the advent of the Premier League. Fair enough, but let’s not kid ourselves – the quest for cash has brought its fair share of downsides too.
Gone are the days when your average Joe could wake up on a Saturday morning and decide to go to a game there and then. These days a trip to see your side at the top level involves weeks of planning and some very expensive tickets, only to find yourself sat in front of some Johnny-come-lately who has absolutely no idea what’s going on. God bless corporate hospitality.
Then there’s player’s wages, foreign imports apparently stifling the young home-grown talent, the loss of standing areas, and don’t forget whining managers complaining about player burnout when they have squads of 350 or so professional footballers.
Certainly the game has changed, but every one of those ‘developments’ seems to be grudgingly accepted by the average fan. Yet now, finally, a number of heroes have stepped in to put a halt to the ridiculous egos at the top of English football.
But these heroes aren’t local football fans who’ve had enough and decided to take the fight to the doors of the Premier League in an attempt to reclaim football for the common man. They’re not even in England. No, the people that deserve a mention this week are the heads of football organisations around the world who have stood up and questioned the wisdom of taking domestic football to foreign shores. They are men you’ve never heard of, such as Mohammed bin Hammam, president of the Asian Football Confederation and Frank Lowy the chief of the Football Federation of Australia. All have told the Premier League that it is not welcome on its soil, prompting a rethink from an English FA keen to host the 2018 World Cup.
The world does not want the Premier League on its doorstep. It might work for American Football and even Rugby League has been played in different locations in the past, but, thankfully, it seems that league football will continue to be played in the country where that league is, for the moment anyway. And hooray for that.
Liverpants
Liverpool crashed out of the FA Cup to Barnsley at the weekend. I take no pleasure from suggesting it all season but the boring, heartless, overrated underachievers at Anfield deserve absolutely nothing more. Nothing against them in particular but if the side do secure a spot in the all-too-predictable top four to protect their Champions League revenue and buy a load more Pennants, Benayouns and co to bore us to within an inch of our lives every weekend, it might just be time to find a new division to devote the majority of this column to.
What the &*%!
A football league in Cumbria is to be the first in England to ban players from swearing, says a report from the BBC website. Referees in the Arngrove Northern League second division will show an immediate red card to any players using foul language from next season.
The Football Association sanctioned scheme, which also covers managers and team officials, could be extended to other leagues if successful. ANL chairman Mike Amos said: “I hope it will be a first step towards reclaiming the game from the foul mouthed yobs who increasingly are driving good people - spectators, volunteers and match officials - away from football. There’s still a long way to go and a lot to be done, but the tide of verbal sewage with which paying spectators are greeted could at last be about to turn.”
Trap’s in town
The Football Association of Ireland has appointed Giovanni Trapattoni as its new manager. It’s something of an about turn for the Irish, who have replaced the completely inexperienced Steve Staunton with one of the world’s most seasoned coaches.
70-year-old Trapattoni has won 10 league titles in five countries, a European Cup, two Uefa Cups and a Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as coaching Italy.
“Ireland are not a second-rate team, they are supposed to be a first-rate team,” he said during the week. “Qualifying for the World Cup in 2010 will be hard, and playing against the Italian team will make me proud, but it should be possible for Ireland to come first.”
Lottery winner bankrupt
A hospital porter who won ten million pounds in a lottery has squandered his fortune and now faces bankruptcy and a home repossession over outstanding debts. John McGuinness, 44, has spent the jackpot he won 11 years ago on fast cars, luxury holidays, an extravagant house and gifts for family and charities.
But his most disastrous setback was investing in a football club, the Daily Mail reported last week. Now owing more than two million pounds, the father-of-four is looking for a job and has joined the queue for council housing.
He gave away one quarter of his fortune to parents, his sister and in-laws, as well as large charity donations. Then there was also a fleet of luxury cars that included a Bentley, Mercedes, Jaguars and BMW’s, plus his lavish Lanarkshire home, an apartment in Majorca, jewellery for his wife and a lavish wedding in 2003.
The worst investment by far was the four million plus sunk into Scottish side Livingston. As a board member McGuinness helped the club reach the Scottish Premier League and win the League Cup in 2004, but despite this success the club collapsed due to poor administration. Club loans guaranteed by McGuiness were called in, leaving the former hospital porter owing a small fortune to the Royal Bank of Scotland.
“I just want my life to get back to the way it was before, but minus the football,” Mr McGuinness said.
This weekend
Something for almost everyone this weekend, except perhaps for a Mr. McGuinness from Livingstone in Scotland. Arsenal visit Birmingham City in Saturday’s opener. Portsmouth host Sunderland, West Ham go to Fulham and the late kick-off is Newcastle, still waiting for the return of Kevin Keegan to spark the side into life, against Manchester United.
On Sunday there’s a treat for all football fans when Blackburn and Bolton settle their differences in what is normally a fabulous advert for the beautiful game, followed by Reading against Aston Villa which might be interesting. Reading are usually good for a goal or two at home and Villa, currently in sixth, will be desperate for all three points to continue their sneaky way up the table.
Yet despite all that EPL fun it’s the Carling Cup Final that takes the attention this week and a London derby as Tottenham try and get something out of Chelsea. Enjoy.

Steve shoots 70 ‘off the stick’ but has to settle for third

PSC Golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, February 11, Burapha - Stableford
Div A (0-11)
1st Mike Waltschek (7) 37pts
2nd Bill Hewitt (11) 37pts
3rd Stewart Thomson (8) 37pts
4th Cliff Wilkins (6) 37pts
Div B (12-17)
1st Carl Lovatt (17) 40pts
2nd Paul Lavender (15) 36pts
3rd John Hassay (14) 36pts
4th Harry Cowling (17) 36pts
Div C (18+)
1st Harvey Samuel (19) 42pts
2nd Tony Duthie (23) 39pts
3rd Pam Taylor (26) 37pts
4th Dennis Persson (19) 36pts.
Business as usual, same place, same day, same 60 ‘Outbackers’ and C & D off the whites - me thinks it will have to be the blue tees from now on, this course is getting too easy.
A fantastic round from Harvey, six pars, a birdie and a blob in his front nine 24 points, well played mate! The ‘ever so’ consistent Mike Waltschek edged out four players all on 37 points to win the A Flight. Carl Lovatt also continued his recent run of form with a sparkling 40 points to take the B Flight. Well played everybody.
There were six 2’s today, from Carl Lovatt, Scott Dobbins, John Hassay, Dennis Persson & Rick Evans (2).
‘The Outback Golf shirt’ was awarded to Mark Taylor for being continually out driven by his wife Pam!
Wednesday, February 13, Greenwood - Stableford
Div A (0–13)
1st Don Frances (11) 40pts
2nd Dave Arrowsmith (4) 38pts
3rd Sunni Khanna (13) 38pts
Div B (14-18)
1st Bob Martin (18) 40pts
2nd Reid Fundurburk (14) 38pts
3rd Alan Bishop (18) 38pts
Div C (19+)
1st Ray Underwood (27) 38pts
2nd Tony Duthie (23) 36pts
3rd Geoff Doody (24) 34pts
Forty ‘Outbackers’ had another good day at the office with some brilliant scores being returned. They won’t count towards handicap since the course had unfortunately been shortened. This is the second time in as many visits that the management have moved the white tees forward to the yellow boxes. Is this a ploy to get more groups onto the course?
Watch out for this! Next time we will play the ‘white markers’ said Capt’ Bob as did the Intrepid Golfers in front of us. The course is still in good nick although a couple of the greens had been sanded.
There were good rounds from Don Frances & Bob Martin and welcome back to Dave Arrowsmith with a great 74 off the stick. To the delight of the golfers, Dave rang the bell so vehemently it broke. Thanks Dave and well played.
There were three 2’s today from Jack Moseley & Dave Arrowsmith (2).
Friday, February 15, Burapha - Stableford
Div A (0–13)
1st Mike Waltschek (7) 43pts
2nd Sunny Khanna (13) 43pts
3rd Steve Morton (4) 42pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (17) 38pts
Div B (18 +)
1st Geoff Doody (23) 38pts
2nd Tony Duthie (23) 38pts
3rd Dennis Persson (19) 33pts
4th John Spiller (24) 33pts
The ‘Outbackers’ just can’t stay away from this course, and many of them are becoming course specialists, the handicapper just cannot keep up with them.
A fantastic gross 70 from Steve Morton was just not enough to beat Mike with a level par gross 72: Sunny Khanna also beating him into to third place. Great golf guys! But next time definitely the Blue tees!
There were two 2’s today from Tony McDonough & Sunny Khanna
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]. 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.

Leif’s 48-pointer leaves the field trailing

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, February 11, Plutaluang – Stableford
The Plutaluang South and East Nines were the venue for a stableford competition in two flights: A Flight 0 to 18 and B Flight 19 up. The weather on the day was drizzle at the start and ‘sauna conditions’ on the last 8 holes. The course was in tidy condition and busy, but we had no hold-ups.

Leif Kirkegaarde returned 48 points at Plutaluang on Monday.

Doug Good won the A Flight with 35 points on a count back over Richard Kubicki in second. Bruce Lawrence was in third with 34 points and Maurice Herberge took fourth with 33 points.
Dane Leif Kirkegaarde won the B Flight, doubling his handicap of 24, with 48 points. We do not get a player with this many points very often, so well done to him and welcome to being a much lower handicapper. Svend Gaard was in second with 35 points with Graham Buckingham in third on 34 points and Hugh O’Donnel in fourth with 32 points on count back over Peter Hammond.
Near Pin: Pierre Dardenne (2), Doug Good, Maurice Herberge
Long Putt: Corole Kubicki, Patrick Poussier
Thursday, February 14, Khao Kheow – Stableford
We had a full house of 40 people for this day out and all were hoping to play a good round at this tough course. The test for the day was to be the B & C Nines, which were in really fine condition, and the wind, which blows constantly here, was down to a breeze, so all was set for the players to destroy the course, especially Leif who had shot 48 points on Monday. Of course they, and he, didn’t.
Sat in the restaurant as the scores came it was seen to be the same old story, course 40, Kronborg 0, mind we could maybe claim a half point as one player shot his handicap, but it would destroy the effect.
So in the A Division (0 to 19) the winner was the one player who actually shot his handicap, Finn Olsen, who won with 36 points ahead of Doug Good in second with 34 points, in third was Derek Brook with 33 points and in fourth was Richard Kubicki with 32 points.
In the B Division they seemed to start where the A Division left off as Tom Cotton won with 32 points ahead of Carole Kubicki in second with 31 points. In third was Svend Gaarde with 30 points and Hugh O’Donnell was in fourth with 29 points.
So once again the course won, however it has to be said that you only need to score enough points to win, and when you play this course you are always aware that if you score your handicap you are in with a chance. At some courses score 38 points and you do not know if you had a good round, score 36 points here and you know it is a fine effort.
Leif, after his 48 points on Monday, was not in the winning circle by some distance today. Funny game this golf!
Near Pin: Peter Hammond, Ebrahim, Terry Pettit, Richard Kubicki
Long Putt: Laurina Brinn, John Marratt

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

While most of the readers of The Square Ring were doing “Valentine things” last Thursday, there was some big time box fighting in Bangkok. “Valentine things?” Sure, you know flowers, perfume, box of chocolates, card from Hallmark, fancy dinner and bar fines. The things we do for the ones we love.
It was a big fight-card last week because the boxers involved were at one time on the top of the world rankings. In fact both had chances at becoming world champions.
Ratanapol Sor Vorapin (52-6-1) was a highly rated light flyweight when he went to Las Vegas in December of 2000 to meet the great Ricardo Lopez. Lopez made short work of Vorapin, knocking him wobbly in 3. Not only was Vorpin KO’d but he subsequently left boxing for almost 5 years. Since his comeback in ‘05, Vorpin is 14-0. On Valentines Day he got late sub Pingpina Tepura who was a snappy 13-10 going in and 13-11 coming out after getting KO’d in 2.
The other half of the V-Day double dipper featured Sod Looknongyangtoy (34-2) against over matched Carlos Lopez (1-2) who lasted almost 2 rounds.
Looknongyangtoy made just two mistakes during his career: He traveled to the USA to fight Daniel Ponce de Leon (twice). Bad planning. Both bouts were for the WBO super-bantam title and ended in losses for the Thai champ. The first bout went the distance but the second ended in 52 seconds of round 1. Since then “Lookie” is 7-0 fighting mostly guys that were in there for a pay day. Lopez was another in the line of “set up wins.”
Last Sunday, jr. featherweight Fashung 3K Battery (59-9-1) got back in the ring for the first time since losing in his title shot against Steve Molitor in Canada. Fighting at the Holland Beer Restaurant in Bangkok, 3K got the 8-round nod over Indonesia’s Jason Butar Butar.
3K’s promoter Jimmy Chaichotchuang said: “He (3K Battery) looked very good against a credible opponent – he is after another shot at IBF champion Steve Molitor.”
Credible? You’re joking. The promoter listed Butar’s record at 12-3. Not so, he was actually 1-1. Butar may be credible but promoters?
The mention of Ricardo Lopez as a “great” may well be an understatement. He retired in September of 2001 with a record of 51-0 and 38 KO’s. Lopez won the WBC minimum title in 1990. He held the title until 2001. In that time he had 25 successful title fights with only a technical draw as an almost loss. Lopez had 18 K0’s in those 25 title fights. The “TD” against Rosendo Alvarez was avenged with a split decision in 1998.
Lopez last bout was in Madison Square Garden against Zolani Petelo. It ended with an 8-round KO and a short time later the retirement of Lopez. In a career that lasted 51 fights Lopez only kissed canvas once, which in itself is remarkable.
His last fight was also the last time for refereeing great Arthur Mercante as he retied to become a boxing judge at the age of 81. It’s never too late for a career change, as many critics have already suggested to The Square Ring.
Lopez is remarkable not only for his record in the ring but the fact that he said “Adios’ to boxing and stayed retired. That too often is not the case.
The latest to “un retire” is former IBF super-middle weight champ Sven Ottke (34-0). Like Lopez, Ottke’s title defense record was outstanding at 21-0 with the caveat that he never ventured outside his native Germany where some of the decisions were a bit “fishy” and his opponents ready to be made into catsup. Regardless 21- and naught in title fights is something special.
He’ll move up in weight on May 24 this year in Hanover, Germany to face former lightweight champion Dariusz “Mr. Alphabet” Michalczewski. Mr. A has been out of the ring since 2005 when he got counted out in 6 against Fabice Tiozzo. That was the second of his 2 losses with the first being against Julio Cesar Gonzalez in 2003. Still a record of 48-2 looks good. The Senior’s tour of boxing continues.
There will be boxing on HBO this Sunday as the heavyweight clash between IBF champion Wladimir Klitschko (49-3) and WBO Champ Sultan Ibragimov (22-0-1) takes place at Madison Square Garden. There is a good chance that the telecast will also include a re broadcast of Taylor- Pavlik from the previous weeks PPV. Just a guess.
For readers in the USA, HBO will also premier a “docudrama” about Joe Louis either before or after the fight depending on the viewer’s time zone. Knowing HBO the “docudrama” will be as devoid of facts as a Teelock’s story of her father’s Water Buffalo dying. Still probably worth the time for a look see.
The Square Ring is not a big fan of the heavyweight division, except for Sam Peter. With that caveat in place Wladimir Klitschko, since the addition of trainer Manny Stewart, is probably the best of the rest. His problem, and his brothers, was that they saw training as lifting weights and some say taking “enhancers.” They did little or no roadwork and distained “sparing” as a not necessary evil. That would account for their sorry performance when hit, when forced to go more than 5 rounds and their numerous injuries.
For Wladimir that changed with the addition of Manny Stewart. Since the ’04 loss to Lemon Brewster, Klitschko has run off 7 wins and even went 12 rounds against Peter. Of course those wins came against the ‘usual suspects’ so would be discounted except for the sorry state of the division.
WBO Champ Sultan Ibragimov (22-0-1) has built his record against the same ‘usual suspects’ as did Klitschko. He won the WBO title by beating Evander “No Longer the Real Deal’ Holyfield last October in Motha Russia. So much for quality wins, which one will not find on the Ibragimov record. Still might be an OK view if only because of the state of the division and the fact that these two are evenly matched with the nod going to Klitschko.
Sunday’s Kelly Pavlik (33-0) rematch against Jermain Taylor (27-2-1) was not shown on free TV in LOS. The Square Ring’s ‘Sir Frog’ went to Shenanigans to see his friend Simon and watched the fight there. Here’s his report.
“Great performance by both fighters. Taylor was in a better shape than his first encounter with Pavlik and they fought toe to toe for 12 rounds, Pavlik busier and Taylor landing sharper punches. One thing I didn’t understand, why they fought 12 rounds in a non-title bout? Normally it’s 10 rounds no? The judges had it 117-111, 115-113 and 116-112 for Pavlik.”
Note to Sir Frog: they fought 12 rounds cause someone wanted them too. Also, while no title was at stake the winner did get a “Medal of Honor” from the WBC. I guess all title and “Medal of Honor” bouts will now be 12 rounds.
Rather disappointing that only 9,706 turned out in Las Vegas, the fight capital of the world, for what was an entertaining evening of boxing.
Next up for Pavlik? A June 7 date with either Felix Trinidad or Ireland’s John Duddy, who fights Sunday on the Klitschko- Ibragimov undercard. The June 7 bout will be in Madison Square Garden and will be the boxing highlight of New York’s Puerto Rico Day celebration, so maybe Trinidad gets the call.
Pavlik-Taylor wasn’t the only big fight last weekend. At The Nuernberg Arena in Germany, former WBA heavyweight champ Nikolay Valuev (48-1) had his way with Sergei Lyakhovich (23-3). Wire reports say that Lyakhocih was “dismantled” which is validated by the 120 sweep on all score cards. If you get 120 points over 12 that’s as good as it gets.
Got a note from someone inside the World Boxing Council in regard to last weeks story about “alleged” skullduggery by the WBC. As reported by Flattop of fightnews.com, the manager of loser Jose Celeya said there was “dodgy stuff” going on at the weigh-in prior to his fighter’s loss to JC Chavez jr. Not so according to the WBC. “Celaya’s manager wanted his minute of fame and made such accusations that are false. There are at least 40 witnesses and you may ask any of them,” said our source. The Square Ring also took a shot from South of the Border.
“I agree the WBC pampered Julio Casar’s father. He never beat anyone of quality in his 37 world title bouts.”
Score one for the South of the Border source against The Square Ring. Later in Chavez’s career he was protected including getting a “mandatory title shot” against Kostya Tzsyu when he didn’t deserve it. Chavez did beat my favorite boxer Bud “Tombstone” Smith. Smith’s record? 179-19.
And now here’s my trusty manservant Jeeves.
“Your Lordship how about we play a little Fox News game of I report and you decide? On the February 9 fight card from Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico, Tommy Morrison KO’d the 3-1-2 Matt Weisharr in 3 rounds. 48 hours before the fight Tom Luckenhoff, brother of Ivan, the President of the ABC (Association of Boxing Commissions) sent a letter to the Provincial Boxing Commission for Guanajuato.
“Luckenhoff wrote: ‘While cognizant of its absence of jurisdiction outside the borders of the United States and its territories, in light of the licensing history of Tommy Morrison, the Association of Boxing Commissions strongly recommends that Mr. Morrison not be allowed to participate in any professional boxing matches until, and unless, he satisfies certain medical testing, as otherwise would be required prior to Mr. Morrison participating in a professional boxing match in the United States.’
“The bout went on as scheduled with the reply coming a week later from WBC President Jose Sulaiman.
“‘Nobody in Leon received any correspondence from the ABC,’ wrote Sulaiman. ‘Neither had the ABC contacted the mayoral office of the city or the WBC in regards to such a request. The WBC would have forwarded the request ourselves, out of courtesy, if the ABC had contacted us. Morrison went through the same thorough medical examinations as all the other boxers, but nobody, in the commission or out of it, had any idea of any boxing suspension.’
“Your take on this Your Lordship?”
Well Jeeves this is just another example of what a useless organization the ABC and its president are. The entire boxing world knew at least a week in advance that Morrison was going to fight in Mexico on a “Buffalo” Bob Arum promoted card. Tom “The Clown” waits until 48 hours before the fight to acknowledge that it has an “absence of jurisdiction.” Headline grabbing moron. Got to love WBC president Dr. Jose’ Sulaiman sticking his finger in the ABC’s eye. A big verbal win for the WBC over the bumbling and ineffective ABC.
Jeeves, all this “me decide” malarkey has worn me out. Please transport the lager and cigars and stick on that bootleg tape of Tina Turner.

Herma caps her stay with Khao Kheow victory

Jomtien Golf with the I.P.G.C.

Monday, February 11, Plutaluang – Stableford
After last week’s washout and the weather still remarkably unpredictable for this time of the year, the clouds were very dense as we approached the course. The South and East courses were chosen today as we arrived to meet our regular caddies as local knowledge always comes first.
A full house today and with 4 rollovers in Division 1 in the 2’s it was all to play for. Kit Parkington’s birdie was the only winner in Division 1 so the rollover kitty builds up for the next extravaganza day on the 22nd where there will be a two-person Canadian Scramble with numerous prizes and a free buffet for all golfers and partners back at Siam Cats. There were no winners in Division 2 so we have the start of another build-up purse.
In the stableford competition William Chang took top place in Division 2 with 37 points, beating Harald Gruber by 2 points. Andy Oz finished third with 34 points after beating Jean Morel on a 19/18 count back.
In Division 1, Ted Morris came in first with 38 points followed by Andy Mills who beat Barry Stirling on a 16/13 count back after they both return scores of 32 points. Ben Findon was in fourth spot with 31 points.
Nearest the pins went to Mikael Andersson, Stan Everingham, Ted Morris, Barry Stirling, Jack Hinchey, Joe Kubon and Mam Morel (2).
Wednesday, February 13, Khao Kheow – Stableford
After 10 cancellations overnight for numerous reasons, an organisational nightmare ensued the next morning for transport and playing partners for the day’s game.
As we have also experienced over the past couple of months, the drought in the 2’s competition over 5/6 games always results in a shared win for 4/5 persons. In Division 1, Ben Findon, Dave Richards, Barry Stirling and Harry Vincenzi all shared the pot and in Division 2, Jack Hinchey and Burnie Sinclair did the same.
In her last game with us and her best round over the past two months, Herma Fitgerald won Division 1 with 39 points followed by Paddy Wilson’s 35 points and Dave Richard’s 34. Andy Oz took top spot in Division 2 with 38 points followed by Les Hall 7 behind and Jack Hinchey in third with 30 points.
Nearest the pins went to Dave Richards (2), Barry Stirling, Harry Vincenzi, Jack Hinchey and Miss Nom.
The ladies tipple would have been won by Ben Findon for arriving at the clubhouse wearing odd sandals, but with a heavy cold he went home early. Fond farewells were said to Herma and Mike Fitzgereld and Barry and Jill Stirling.
Also congratulations to Rick Newman for his first hole in one the day before on the lighthouse green at Plutaluang.
Friday, February 15. Eastern Star – Stableford
After leaving his farmers uniform back in the Yorkshire hills until May, Geoff Stubbs won the Division 1 stableford with 38 points ahead of short-term visitor from Boracay and long time member Ken Lill in second with 34 and Jim Connelly third with 31 points.
Magne Gunnersson was top of Division 2 with 34 points, Miss Oam came second just 1 point behind and Rick Newman took third place on 31 points after beating Miss Nom on a 16/14 count back. The old man was not happy.
There were no 2’s in either division and the nearest the pins went to Kit Parkington (2), Kurt Eigelhart, Miss Nom and Miss Oam.
Note: Jomtien golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Siam Cats Soi 5 , Jomtien beach road at around 8.30 for a 10.00am tee off. Transport can be arranged, please sign up in the bar or contact Glyn on 086 837 5464.

Mike proves a little local knowledge goes a long way

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, February 12, Phoenix – Stableford
This was always going to be a fine day, after all Phoenix is just a skip and a jump down the road. After a quick change we were informed by Mike, who had invited us to play there, that the test would be Lakes and Ocean: always nice to invited by a Member.

The A & B Flight winners and runners up with one of Bert’s staff.

Fine day out and as usual the course was in great condition. The weather was pretty overcast, and we constantly thought it was going to rain, but it never did. However on the back nine we ran up against the groups ahead and the day became really slow. Still not to worry, we had a good chat and the time passed.
Round over and back at Bert’s it was time to see who had played well, and the ‘Phoenix Member’ was head and shoulders above the rest, despite not hitting a ball for three months because of a broken ankle. There is obviously some promise here.
In the A Flight, 0 to 15, the winner was Kevin Dunne with 37 points on count back over Steve Hamstad in second with Jerry Kurtz in third with 35 points. In the B Flight the winner was Mike Gerrard with a very fine 43 points. Mike would have been in the A Flight but for the flip of a coin, as at 16 handicap, with each flight level in numbers, he could have gone either way. Second in B Flight was Stan Dare with 37 points with John Vincent in third with 35 points.
Worth a mention was the near pin of Steve Hamstad, it rolled over the edge of the hole and finished less than 6 inches from the hole. Steve was shouting ‘Get Out, Get Out’. I wonder why? T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Stan Dare, Mick O’Meara, Derek Brook, Steve Hamstad
Long Putt: Mick O’Meara, Carole Kubicki

Tony Barritt celebrates

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, February 11, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Tony Barritt 37pts
2nd Barry Traynor 36pts
3rd Ole Stamnes 35pts
4th Martin Grimoldby 34pts
5th Brian Kelly 34pts
The greens here were back to being quite quick following a very recent cut, and several players were left ruing that they were above the hole for the first putt. Surprisingly Tony Barritt was not among those as he played very well from tee to green and kept his nerve as he played mostly uphill putts to record a very good one-under and grasp the winner’s spot on the top of the podium.
He was followed by Barry Traynor, who can always be relied upon to do well on difficult greens, with what is arguably the best putting stroke and technique in the Haven, with a level round and just one in front of Ole Stamnes who was pleased to once again find himself in the prizes.
Martin Grimoldby, who has been winning at other venues but has been unsuccessful this trip with The Haven, took fourth by count back from Brian Kelly.
There were no 2’s in the second division but, not unusually, Barry Traynor had the one and only in the first division.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member Rick Roberts and also welcomed back Wilf Wellman and Kinya Akiyama. There was also a farewell for another year to Oili and Rainer Helling.
Wednesday, February 13,Eastern Star - Stableford
1st Rick Schramm 37pts
2nd Jan Andersen 36pts
3rd Al Keith 36pts
4th Tony Barritt 36pts
5th Brian Beaupre 35pts
6th Russell Exley 35pts
The standard of the competitors on the day was extremely high with six of them at 5-handicap or under and the class told over a non-too-easy course. The greens were playing fast and loose with uneven rolls and with the length it made for a very tight contest with all the prize winners at 12 handicap or better.
Top of the list was Rick Schramm who followed his previous week’s successes and a cut in handicap with another good round at one-under which just kept the chasing group at bay.
They were led in by Jan Andersen with a magnificent count back which amounted to 34 gross and netted 22 points to easily head Al Keith as the next best. Al in turn beat off the challenge of Tony Barritt, who took another prize prior to his departure on holiday to Florida, where he is sure to find the life a little tougher and lot harder to win anything.
Brian Beaupre made a nice return to Pattaya, with a result in his first game, by edging Russell Exley on count back after Russell had threatened to burn up the field after the front nine.
The first division’s 2’s were shared between Jan Andersen, Vibeke Poulsen and Rick Schramm and the second division including the rollover was swept by Glyn Nicholas, who promises to be back next time the pot is big enough.
Back at The Haven, The Doc welcomed new member Athumi Tagaki and also welcomed back Ian Bakewell, Brian Beaupre, Paul Hartley and Frank Hughes.
Friday, February 15, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean - Stableford
A Flight (0-14)
1st Russell Exley 38pts
2nd Yasuo Suzuki 36pts
3rd Martin Rock 35pts
B Flight (15+)
1st George Pittam 39pts
2nd Roar Berger 37pts
3rd Syd Harrison 36pts
As usual another large turn out for the ever-popular Phoenix course where everything went smoothly from the get go. The competition even managed to get away from the first tee prior to the designated start time and the groups played at an even and fairly brisk pace allowing everyone to enjoy a carefree round.
Russell Exley went a few better than the last outing to ensure that it was not a bean feast of a celebration for Yasuo, after sending home another successful tour to spread the word far and wide of the delights of drinking Japanese beer in Pattaya, he could only manage a steady par round to trail by two but still enough to see off Martin Rock in third.
George Pittam took his first win out of The Haven with the best score of the day at three-under to finish two ahead of Roar Berger who was in turn one up on Syd Harrison.
Al Keith, Russell Exley and Ian Bakewell shared the pool in the first division 2’s, whilst Syd Harrison had the only one in the second division.
Prior to the prize giving, The Doc welcomed new member Yasu Ueda and welcomed back Alan Duffy, Jim Brown, and Terry Sumner and gave a farewell to Peter Sumner.

The ex-President comes back for the Gold

IPGC golf from Lewinski’s

Sunday, February 10, Green Valley - Gold Medal & Monthly Medal
Gold Medal Winner: Steve Mascari (4) net 72
A Flight
1st Bob Newell (11) net 70
2nd Sonny Crawford (10) net 70
3rd Pat Hanafin (10) net 71
4th Steve Mascari (4) net 72
B Flight
1st Lee Adelly (13) net 70
2nd Jeff Johnston (13) net 70
3rd Ray Dell (13) net 71
4th Ted Lodge (12) net 71
C Flight
1st Geoff Doddy (22) net 68 (Monthly Medal Winner)
2nd Mike Loewen (27) net 74
3rd John Hillier (17) net 76
4th Alec Hoare (20) net 76
Ladies
1st Wira Widness (14) net 72 (Ladies Medal Winner)
2nd An Kavasanee (32) net 78
As predicted in this column last week, the ex President Steve Mascari returned for a smash and grab raid to take the 2007/8 Lewinski’s Gold medal. Steve may have long since left Lewinski’s, but his old trophy cabinet is still there gathering dust. The fact that it’s full and is about the size of Man U’s equivalent at Old Trafford is testament to Steve’s golfing prowess. I’m sure Steve will be taking his rather nice crystal vase with him to his new home.
Steve’s 72 also earned him 4th place in A-flight. For confused readers, the Gold Medal is restricted to last year’s monthly medal winners, ties and low gross winners.
The monthly medal on the day went to C Flight’s Geoff Doddy who put together a remarkable net 68, given the pace of play of certain members of the 4-ball in front.
The Bounty Hunter has retired! Yes, Big Bob Newell will no longer be scouring the world for undesirables. Instead, he’ll be playing with them right here at Lewinski’s. And it didn’t take Bob long to settle into his new lifestyle as he shot two-under to edge home on count back from Sonny (the ghost writer) Crawford, with Pat Hanafin in third.
B Flight was also a tight affair with two 70s and two 71s filling the top four. Those men were Lee Adelly, Jeff Johnston, Ray Dell and Ted Lodge.
The ladies medal went without controversy and the winner was ‘Our Vera from Widnes.’
Monday, February 11, Crystal Bay - Stableford
A Flight
1st Jack Grinvold (6) 40pts
2nd Martin Hennessy (16) 39pts
3rd Grant Jackson (+3) 37pts
B Flight
1st Geoff Kubas (19) 37pts
2nd John Fogarty (18) 32pts
3rd John Calvert (17) 32pts
Wacko has been placing a lot recently without actually winning. Today he shook off the bridesmaid’s tag to stand a-top of A Division with a top-notch 40 point round. Martin Henessy was next on 39 whilst our plus-3 man, Grant Jackson, came in third with 37.
Two things worth noting about Grant; firstly contrary to rumour, he’s no relation to the more famous ‘one ball’ George Jackson and secondly, every time he plays with us it’s off the very back tees. As mentioned previously in this column, this man is a proper golfer.
Playing a rather different game than Grant were our B flighters: Geoff Kubas proved to be the best of these mere mortals with 37 points which gave him a 5-point cushion over John Fogarty and John Calvert.
Wednesday, February13, Bangpra - Stableford
A Flight
1st Chas Li (8) 40 pts
2nd Pat Hanafin (10) 39pts
3rd Takashi Hakozaki (11) 38pts
4th Bob Newe Hakozaki (11) 37pts
B Flight
1st David Somers (18) 43pts
2nd Terry Wagner (16) 37pts
3rd John Hillier (17) 35pts
4th Joe Tynan (28) 34pts
Great scoring at Bangpra as the top 4 in A Flight all broke their handicaps: 40-39-38-37 were the scores, so no need for count back as Chas Li, Pat Hanafin, Takashi Hakozaki and Bob Newell showed the rest how to play the course.
The outstanding round of the day however, went to B Flight winner Dave Somers who tore it up for 43 points, so giving him a 6-point winning margin. Fair play to Dave who got to himself before the handicappers did as he gave himself an immediate 3 shot cut in advance of Friday. As far as the scribe knows, this is an apparent unheralded act of integrity in this the society of sandbaggers.
Terry Wagner, John Hillier and Joe Tynan were the next 3 home in Gentleman Dave’s wake.
Friday, February 15, Emerald - Stableford
A Flight
1st Andy Redmond (14) 41pts
2nd Bob Newall (11) 38pts
3rd Paul Wallier (13) 35pts
B Flight
1st Dave Somers (18) 37pts
2nd Mark Bonner (16) 35pts
3rd Geoff Kubas (19) 35pts
Last but one chance for the boys to hone their game before the upcoming club championship.
Andy Redmond might have peaked too early, but will certainly be in with a shout if he can repeat the form that gave him this 41 point win in A flight. The real form guy however, appears to be the Bounty Hunter who placed second for his third podium finish of the week. Big Bob is clearly finding his new clubs and retirement to his liking and must rank as one of the favourites for next week.
Another likely contender is last month’s medal winner, Larry’s mate Paul came who came in third.
B Flight victor Dave Somers didn’t let his voluntary cut hinder him as his even-par round edged out the improving Mark Bonner. Mark needn’t be embarrassed by his 35 points which included a 22-point back nine to edge the consistent Geoff Kubas into third.
Quote of the week: “The next club champion is leaving the bar.”
Quote of the week hasn’t been in for a while, but it’s worth reviving for this one as Big Bob Newell, with confidence high after a first-rate week’s golf and fueled by a dozen or more San Miguels, came out with the sort of outrageously rash prediction one normally hears from the likes of Ian Poulter or Brian Wireless Wilkinson.
Well, by now the scores will be in and it’ll all be over, so we’ll all know if Bob was talking nonsense or maybe, just maybe he showed us that he cannot only talk the talk, but also that he can actually walk the walk.

Green Horde dominates the week

IPGC golf from Donovan’s

Monday, February 11, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Pat Hanafin (8) 34pts
Irishman Pat Hanafin beat a closely bunched field, both numerically and physically, to take the day.
Wednesday, February 13, Greenwood A & B (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Max Wilson (13) 36pts
2nd Gareth Gill (10) 35pts
3rd Steve Mascari (4) 35pts
The march of the Celts continued with Max Wilson topping on Big Gareth and The Pres by a single point. Gareth took second on count back as further proof of the accounting integrity of The Pres.
Friday, February 15, Khao Kheow C & A (Yellow Tees) - Stableford
1st Des Griffith (8) 40pts
2nd Jack Grindvold (6) 35pts
2’s: Des Griffith, Jack Grindvold, Gerry Doyle
Three comps on the week, three Mick winners. Des Griffith continued his fine play with 40 points and lapped Wacko Jacko by five points in topping the field. Three twos, one by Gerry Doyle, and two by our podium holders, soaked up a week’s worth of carry-overs.

All smiles for Cyril at Pattaya Country Club

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, February 11, Greenwood - Medal
Monday saw the Bunker Boys travel to Greenwood for a Medal competition where we had good scores in both the A Flight and the B Flights.
Rod Stevens continued his winning ways by taking first prize in the B Flight with a three-under par net 69. Harry Lankoff took second place with a one over par net 73 beating “Skinny” Newton into third place on a count back.
Jim Treen took the A Flight with the same winning score, net 69, ahead of William Macey level par net 72 and third placed Mashi Kaneta net 73.
Near pin prizes went to Raleigh Gosney, Tony Scambler, Bernie Stevens and William Macey
Wednesday, February 13, Khao Kheow - Stableford
Playing stableford at Khao Kheow on the Wednesday we had a whole host of new names taking the prizes. In the B Flight Bryan Rought took first place with 34 points, second place went to Colin Stokes 32 points and 31 points was enough for Laurence Harding to get third place.
Alan Sullivan found himself in the A Flight as the cut was handicap 17 and under and Alan won with 38 points. He was one point ahead of Cyril Wallwork who took second place and Unto Kilvonen was third with 34 points.
Unto took one of the near pin prizes along with Alan Freeman, Mashi Kaneta and William Macey.
Friday, February 15, Pattaya C.C. - Medal
With a lot of the golfers playing in the PSC monthly tournament we had a single flight on Friday and Cyril Wallwork took the honours with the best round of the day, a three-under par net 69. Alan Freeman, playing off scratch, came second with a fine level par 72 and Tony Scambler was third with net 75.
Cyril Wallwork capped a great day by winning two near pin prizes and the other two went to Tony Scambler and Mashi Kaneta.

Smyth & McGovern topple the champions

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Monday, February 11, Greenwood - 2-Ball Scramble
Today it was a two-ball scramble at Greenwood, with a big build up to today’s event the team of Graham Beaumont and Graham Dietrich reminding everyone that they have been unbeaten in this format for a couple of months.

Vince Smyth and Brenden McGovern were the two-ball scramble winners at Greenwood.

This stirred the other teams into action and how the mighty fall, not one but two teams finished ahead of them leaving the aforementioned duo in third place on net 65.2 with their tails firmly between their legs.
Coming in second place was the team pairing of Rick Montana and Richard Steadman with a 65 net, but just edging them out of top spot was the Irish raiders combo of Vince Smyth and Brenden McGovern with a net 64.4 to take first place and be crowned the new 2-ball Texas scramble champions.
Wednesday, February 13, Subhapruek - Stableford
Today was something completely different with a trip to Bangkok to play Subhapruek golf course. Stableford was the chosen format and two divisions were set on their way.
The B Flight saw Bruce Tollitt score 34 points for second place, while just two ahead with a par round of 36 points was John Knight to take first. In the premier flight, Vincent Smyth scored 31 points for second place and the winner, once again with a par round of 36 points, was Keith Jansen.
All in all the journey was long but it was all worth while as the course was in lovely condition.

Ed, Chris, Danny and Billy are the ‘Big Winners’ at Pattana

The 76th PSC Members Golf Open

The fourth placed team, Ron Birdsall, John Lloyd, Robert Welsh and Glenn Ford, receive their prizes from the ubiquitous Tony Oakes, left.

Derek Brook
Friday, February 15, Pattana Golf Club.
This was going to be a different day as we were to play a ‘Florida Scramble’, probably quite apt as most of the players are qualified to retire to Florida. This means that a scramble of sorts at the end of the week is most acceptable.

The winning team, Ed Behr, Chris Holmes, Danny Larsen and Billy Bortha, raise Golf Chairman Tony Oakes (center) to their level.

I say a scramble of sorts because most of us were playing it for the second time only and many for the first time. The main difference from the normal Texas Scramble we play is that all players must take 4 Tee Shots, and none may play 2 shots on the trot that are ‘taken’ unless you are on the green. This means that the player whose Tee shot you take, cannot play the second shot and the other three play, and the same for the third shot on a par 5. Exciting, What?
So off we went to Pattana and what an impressive set up this is. You drive up to the plush clubhouse and go into the magnificent entrance to be met by Tim. One has to come down to earth sometime. Mind, Tim knows the score, and we were soon booked in and into the quality changing room then a short walk to the caddies and the first Tee.
The test for the day was to be the A & B Nines, B1 being a monster of a hole that most players would prefer to play on the second nine. The queue to be off before the first players to play the other nine came around, worked out quite good. Only a number of ‘others’ trying to join between the last group on B and the first group to complete A as they came around had potential for a problem.

Two members of the runner-up team with the Golf Chairman.

Here thanks must go to the course management as they dealt with the matter in a very positive manner. Well done indeed. Many courses would have had the ‘bosses’ suddenly go walkabouts.
The wind was strong on the day and caused many problems, however this is, to my way of thinking, a fine open course and ideal for the format we played. It is well manicured and well maintained with greens that can be over-tricky at times. However in this format it may be a good thing.
We, as is normal, finally got around and being in the final group I was able to see who were on the pins, and as is normal in the last group get my name on one. Mind, that was rather traumatic as the other three were in the water, and it was a shot with a prayer to ‘The Gods’ and they answered.

A fine looking team on the first.

Tim was still sat where we left him when I took the pins in, this golf really is hard work for some, but as he had Tony to talk to I suppose he was quite happy. Indeed, as only 33 groups played he may have not had the problems the scorers have when they have 140 players in five flights.
Meanwhile in the restaurant, suffice to say like everything here, it is luxurious, all were awaiting the results and quite relaxed. Mind, they had not had their bill yet. However, to be honest you get what you pay for and here it is first class.
Soon the results were ready, and after a few words from the Golf Chairman, Tony Oakes, in which he particularly thanked Pattana’s management for their input, we returned to the Emcee, Nigel for the results.
In fourth place with a net 59.24 was the team of Ron Birdsall, John Lloyd, Robert Welsh and Glenn Ford. In third spot was the team of Gordon Everingham, Brian Rideout, Kari Aarnio and Pat Hanafin with a net 59.19. Coming in second with a net 56.13 was the team of Dan Tracey, Ron Miller, Tom Mason and Gerhard Haas.
So to the winners, and I think ‘Big Winners’ is appropriate considering the size of the team. With a fine net 55.9 the winners were Ed Behr, Chris Holmes, Danny Larsen and Billy Bortha.
Well done to the players the organisers and the course management on a ‘really fine day’. T.T.F.N.
Long Drive: (0-18) Juhani Falt; (19-36) Larry Willett; (Ladies) Pat Loquist.
Near Pin: (0-18) Derek Brook, Geoff King, Tony Robbins, Derek Bannerman; (19-36) Gordon Everingham, Norman Best, Leif Linner, Jim Bryan; (Ladies) Bibbi Wimmerstedt, Pia Loquist, Mam Morel.

Ready to go at B1

Ooy bowls a 279 game

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

The many 200 Bowlers from the past three weeks.

Beaver Bar & Grill took three points from Brother D and moved into first place, one point ahead of Brother D and House of the Golden Coin. Morn led the Beaver team with a 225 game, 584 series and Wade had a 515 series. Konrad rolled a 215 game and 545 series for Brother D.
Café Kronborg won three points from House of the Golden Coin as Mio bowled a 528 series for Golden Coin. Nok bowled a 543 series to lead her SaBai Friday team to a four-point sweep over VFW Post 9876 and her team moved into fourth place.
Balls Galore is in fifth place after winning three points from Café Ole. Rich Montana bowled games of 196, 194 and 200 for a 595 series for Café Ole and La had a 205 game and 524 series for Balls Galore.
Montana took all four points from Jack Tar despite Mai’s 543 series and Barry’s 531 for Jack Tar. Jan bowling off a 32 handicap is getting better as he rolled a 519 scratch series for Montana.
Ooy bowled a league best 279 game, 579 series to lead Canada to a two-two split with Diamond Shop. Teuvo bowled a 511 series for Canada. Bill Key led Diamond Shop with a 213 game, 580 series and Su rolled a 540. Leen bowled a 220 game, 593 series, Jim a 225 game, 534 series and Kaew a 202 game, 526 series, all bowling as Pacers.