Mashi makes short work of Greenwood

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook
Tuesday, July 8, Greenwood – Stableford
Yes here we are again. It is like a long-playing record, every time we put it on it plays the same tune. We only book it once a month at Bert’s but Dave at the Cafe Kronborg also books it and the dates always seem to coincide.

Winner Mashi Kenata (right) with Derek Brook (center) and one of Bert’s staff.
The drive up there is reasonably easy these days, and back even easier, so the distance is not as big an anti as it used to be. Also value wise this is amongst the best, so it is obviously great place to play if the course is in good condition.
On this day the course was nearly empty, so we were able to tee off as soon as we wanted, and the road ahead was clear. The test was to be the A & B nines, and we soon found that all the white tee markers were in fact at the yellow tee distances. The wind however was quite strong.
The course was also in quite good condition and it made a change to play the B nine which has been out of action for some weeks.
Back at Bert’s all waited with an air of expectancy for the results, and with good reason, as nearly half of the players had beaten their handicap and had had their best round for weeks. The shortened course may have had something to do with it.
With a fine 40 points Mashi Kenata won the day a point ahead of the ‘organiser’ Derek Brook with 39 points. In third was Mark Brenton with 38 points and we then had 3 players with 37 points each. A fine set of scores all round.
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Joel Flor (2), Derek Brook, Perry McNeely
Long Putt: Colin Cronin, Joel Flor.

Australian Rules Football coming to Pattaya

Mark Armsden
The Bangkok-based Thailand Tigers Australian Rules Football Club is bringing the unique code to Pattaya with a game against reigning Asian champions, the Hong Kong Dragons at Horseshoe Point on July 26.

The action is always high flying in Aussie Rules. Here the big men fly in the recent match between Thailand and Jarkarta in Kanchanaburi.

Australian Rules Football is flourishing in Asia and the Thailand Tigers are using the match as a tune up for the Asian Championships – involving teams from 12 Asian nations – in Singapore during October.
The game promises to be a spectacular example of the sport as the last time the two teams met – in Kanchanburi in 2007 – they played out a gritty draw after 80 minutes of football.
Hong Kong have been in superb form over the last 12 months, having beaten Bali in extra time in the 2007 Asian Championships, held in Bangkok, and with an undefeated run through the recent Manila Twelves tournament.
Equally, the Thailand Tigers have been undefeated in their last three international games, easily accounting for Hanoi, Laos and Jakarta.
Thailand Tigers President, Ryan Collett, said the team has played games in many locations around Thailand but never in Pattaya and this was the perfect contest to bring and play in front of the Eastern Seaboard masses.
“We have played in just about every country around the region and always have a game around Anzac Day up in Kanchanaburi, but a lot of guys in the club have never even been to Pattaya before,” he said.
“This game is the perfect one for the first official game of Australian Rules Football in Asia’s finest beach resort as Hong Kong are undoubtedly the best players of the game in Asia at the moment, but I know our guys will be fired up to try an knock them off.
“It will be a fantastic showcase for the sport and we are hoping Pattaya can get behind us and get out to the game and support the mighty Tigers.”
The Thailand Tigers are inviting all residents and their families of Pattaya to come down to the game at Horseshoe Point and cheer them on from 2.00 p.m. on Saturday July 26. Food and beverages will be available during the day.
For further information, please contact Mark Armsden on 084 121 4930, 02 246 1160 or E-mail: [email protected]

Breslin powers to 7-point win at Eastern Star

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

Monday, July 7, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford
Our second visit here this year because of the price structure and with 18 players out it was an enjoyable day for most.
In the stableford today, with the cut at 20 and under, Mam Morel returned from her golfing trip to Bintan to claim third place in division 1 with 33 points, while going one better in second spot was Burnie Sinclair. The winner, and 5 points clear on 39 points, was Jim Lane.
Russell Benson’s 37 points was enough to win division 2, with Roger Ribbins close behind on 36 and in third place with 35 points was the newly retired Alan Bissell.
Alan was pleased with himself as his birdie on the 12th hole won him a double rollover in the 2’s competition. Three rollovers ensued in division 1 to Khao Kheow.
Wednesday, July 9, Khao Kheow – Stableford
There was some heavy rain here the night before and with some very dark clouds hanging around at our departure time from Siam Cats, there were a few dubious thoughts of should we go or not.
In the end five groups went out to a very tight and modified C and A courses, probably getting ready for the I.P.G.C. championship competition on July 23.
There were no winners in the 2’s competition in either division, so a quadruple rollover in division 1 and a single in division 2 go forward to Friday.
Dave Richard’s 34 points won first place in division 1 with Burnie Sinclair second on 33. Ken Foster beat Richard Kings on a 13/12 back nine count back to finish second in division 2 after both came in with 28 points each. Meanwhile 6 points ahead was Alan Bissell in first with 34 points.
A warm welcome to newcomer Jimmy Johnson and bon voyage to Les Hall and next week the old man, Ken Foster, will be back in the UK so we will all be looking after Miss Nom for him.
Friday, July 11, Eastern Star – Stableford
After Thursday’s torrential rain we were surprised to find on arrival that the Eastern Star course remained relatively dry and in good condition.
There were still no winners in either division in the 2’s so a very profitable prospect looks in place at Green Valley on Monday.
Tom Breslin’s 40 points won him division 2 honours with Ken Foster finishing second on 33. Bryan Rought’s 31 points took pole position in division 1, just beating Mikael Andersson by one point.

ATP Thailand Open 2008 promises great tennis action

One of the world’s most exciting players, world #3 Novak Djokovic will lead the field at the Thailand Open 2008 which will be held at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani from September 21 to 28.
Australian Open champion Djokovic will be joined by two-time Grand Slam champion Marat Safin and Australian Open runner up Jo-Wilfried Tsonga as well as the return of Thailand’s Paradorn Srichaphan to top tennis in the singles draw. In the doubles, local heroes and defending champions Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwatana will be back to defend their first ATP Tour title.
Djokovic is looking forward to a good showing at the tournament. “I remember my last trip to Bangkok to play in the Thailand Open. I was only 17 and ranked #248 in the world. It was only my third ATP Tour event. I’m really looking forward to playing the Thailand Open again this year,” added Djokovic.
Crowd favorite Safin has enjoyed a resurgent 2008 and will be making his third appearance at the Thailand Open. He made the semi-finals in 2004 and 2006 and has proved a big hit with Thai fans on both occasions. “I always like playing the Thailand Open and I’m looking forward to another good tournament this year,” Safin said.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga has been the breakout star of 2008 reaching the final of the Australian Open – beating Gasquet, Murray and Nadal along the way – and seeing his ranking jump from #212 at the beginning of 2007 to #13. The irrepressible Frenchman will be making his first appearance at the Thailand Open.
Paradorn is aiming to put 18 months out with injury behind him with a return to top tennis in his home tournament. “My entire attention now focuses on the fitness, preparation and performing well for the tournament this year,” Paradorn said. “I long for that feeling where I walk down the stairs and onto the tennis court surrounded by Thais,” he added.
Last year’s surprise doubles winners, Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwatana have gone on to further success in 2008 winning their second ATP Tour title in Chennai and reaching the finals in Memphis. They are keen to defend their title this year and hope for the same support they enjoyed last year. “We would like fans to come join and support us at this year’s Thailand Open,” Sonchat said.
BEC Tero Entertainment Public Co. Ltd. is once again proud to stage the only ATP Tour event in Southeast Asia and is offering last year’s ticket holders special discounts in 2008. Ticket holders from the Thailand Open 2007 will enjoy a 25% discount on tickets purchased for this year’s event. To receive the discount, just bring your tickets from last year to any branch of Thaiticketmajor.
This year tennis fans will also be able to purchase a new category of premium seats that will enable them to get closer to all the great tennis action.
Tickets for the Thailand Open start at just Bt300 and are available at all Thaiticketmajor outlets from Saturday July 19. VIP Box seats are already on sale. Call 02 262 3456 or log on to www.thailandopen.org or www.thaiticketmajor.com for more details.

Neil claims family bragging rights at Navy

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, July 8, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean (White Tees) - Stableford
A Division (0–17)
1st Neil Duncan (14) 39pts
2nd David Gardner (9) 36pts
3rd Tony Walsh (12) 35pts
B Division (18+)
1st Ian Campbell (22) 36pts
2nd Doug Carysforth (24) 34pts
3rd Paul Smylie (26) 33pts
A returning contingent of Aussie chums swelled our number to 18 for our visit to Phoenix which was enjoyed by all, well mostly all anyway.
Near pins on the day went in course order to Craig Duncan, Neil Duncan, Ken Jones and Peter Mills who also sloped off with the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Thursday, July 10, - Plutaluang S & E (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Neil Duncan (14) 38pts
2nd Bob Drumm (11) 36pts
3rd Craig Duncan (5) 36pts
On a day of dodgem rain clouds twelve of us enjoyed our bi-monthly visit to Navy where the course improvement works hardly impinged on play.

Thursday’s winners (L-R): Craig Duncan, Neil Duncan and Bob Drumm.

In a re-run of the ‘man bites dog’ scenario Neil Duncan grimly held on to his concentration to come out two points ahead of his son Craig, who was edged into third spot by Bob Drumm on back-nine count-back.
The management committee chaired by Good Ol’ David has decided that forthwith when this group all starts from the same tee (i.e. always) the back nine for count-back purposes will be the back nine played on the day regardless of any other mambo jambo.
Near pins today went to Thong Pimblett E2, Willy Nachbur E5, Ian Campbell S4 and David Gardner E7. Bob Drumm sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the format, please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

The Mechanic edges Capt. Fogg on the latter’s B’day

IPGC golf from Donovan’s

Thursday, July 10,Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
1st Mike Craighead (16) 39pts
2nd Jim Munns (12) 38pts
2’s: Graham Dietrich, Charles Sheppard
Well it would have been out of order for anyone but the beloved Mechanic to do such a thing on Capt. Fogg’s birthday, but that being the case there was no complaining as Mike’s 39 withstood the 38 point onslaught of Jimmy Fogg.
Celebrating with the Good Captain on the day were The Headmaster and The Scribe, as they do, to no one’s surprise, every year.
Saturday, July 12, Green Valley (White Tees) - Stableford
Men’s Flight
1st Oddvar Rykke (17) 42pts
2nd Steve Mascari (2) 38pts
Ladies Flight
1st Gib Jaroenpok (32) 36pts
2’s: Steve Mascari
History repeated itself Saturday to Saturday, as the Rykke household took both Flights. Their winning point totals were, unlike last week, at par or better. Both of their handicaps, to the relief of their bedraggled co-competitors, are declining.
The President’s even par off the stick round, good for 38 points off a two handicap garnered him but a second place finish, however he had his feelings assuaged by being the possessor of the sole 2 on the day.

Schirmer shoots the lights out at Greenwood

IPGC golf from The Haven

Wednesday, July 2, Khao Kheow - Monthly Matchplay Knockout 1st Round
The inaugural matchplay knockout, where all competitors are drawn and play each other on full handicap difference, was a very keenly anticipated event and even with the course in a very wet condition all players voted it a resounding success.
Stephen Beard was unlucky to find Tony Thorne in excellent form and could not hold on to a three-hole lead over the back nine and was adjudged the loser on the count back as unfortunately no matches can “go down the 19th.” It was a fair result.
Another good result was achieved by Russell Exley, who had to give the ‘silver fox’ a shot and even see Barry Traynor slip in a couple of 2’s, but he still managed to edge him out on the 17th hole as Barry made an uncharacteristic error, dropping the tee shot into the water.
Chris Knapp had the biggest win of the day as Peter Aitcheson struggled off his new lower handicap and the length of the course. Al Keith also had an easier than expected win over Yasuo Suzuki as he also struggled but with a new “non-tinking driver.”
The Aussie dynamic duo, of B J Smith and Trevor Schirmer were also good winners against Geoff Picken and John Harris respectively.
The closest matches were between La Keith and Tony Barritt, and Glyn Nicholas and Derek Holt, with the former in each case turning out the winners.
Results: Chris Knapp won 10 & 8 v Peter Aitcheson; Glyn Nicholas won 2 & 1 v Derek Holt; Tony Thorne won cb after a/s v Stephen Beard; Russell Exley won 3 &1 v Barry Traynor; B J Smith won 4 & 2 v Geoff Picken; Trevor Schirmer won 4 & 3 v John Harris; La Keith won 3 & 2 v Tony Barritt; Al Keith won 5 & 3 v Yasuo Suzuki
Monday, July 7, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Russell Exley 37pts
2nd Dave Spendley 36pts
3rd Al Keith 36pts
4th Serge Straeten 35pts
5th Tony Thorne 34pts
6th Rodney Hayes 34pts
7th Robin Peach 34pts
Once again the Green Valley course was found to be in first class condition, as a large group proved in the final analysis, with many of the contestants playing within the two-shot buffer zone of standard scratch. The CSS for the day went down to 71, disappointing many who had expected their handicaps to be reduced.
Russell Exley had his best day of the week, scoring-wise at least, to take the top honours by a single shot from Dave Spendley, who had returned to immediate good form, and Al Keith, both of whom played to their handicaps.
Serge Straeten finished alone in fourth after a steady round which proved to be enough to consign Tony Thorne, Rodney Hayes and Robin Peach to also-rans.
Russell Exley added to his day’s tally when he slipped in the only ‘2’ in the first division whilst the second division pot was shared between Dave Spendley and Derek Holt, the latter having actually putted it for a change.
Wednesday, July 9, Phoenix - Stableford
1st La Keith 38pts
2nd Geoff Picken 38pts
3rd Tony Thorne 38pts
4th Al Keith 37pts
5th Graham Davis 37pts
6th Barry Traynor 37pts
Once again the scores were very, very good by nearly all the entrants, even with the course having been subjected to a continuous rainstorm throughout the previous night. Lift and place on the fairways was a real necessity as the ball was never without a large lump of mud attached after the drive.
La Keith led in the field with a very tidy score that was highlighted by an outstanding level-par gross on the back nine off of her 13 handicap. This was a definite career best nine holes for La and it proved to be the cruncher for Geoff Picken and Tony Thorne who had to settle for second and third respectively.
Al Keith led in Graham Davis and Barry Traynor for the minor places.
In the second division Chris Knapp had the only ‘2’ whilst the first division spoils were shared by La Keith, Tony Thorne, Al Keith and Robin Peach.
Back at The Haven Alan Pilkington was welcomed back.
Monthly Matchplay Knockout 2nd Round
As previously mentioned La Keith had and outstanding inward half which she needed as she was two down after 12 with Trevor going very well but with no shots given, it was an almost impossible task to hold her back.
Tony Thorne ensured that there would not be a family celebration and a husband and wife semi final as he slipped past Al Keith on the seventeenth. After Al had put one to a foot, Tony Got one inside to close out the match and even though Al had played under his handicap it was just not quite enough
Cap’n Chris Knapp found the going slightly harder this time out as he met Glynn Nicholas in ‘hard to beat’ mode and lost out on the final hole which he needed to win to claim the match on Stableford count back.
B.J. Smith hung tough for seventeen holes as he surpassed his wildest expectations in his match with Russell Exley, but finally he lost on the last hole as Russell putted in from fully 35-feet to counter a fantastic chip by B.J. from a dead and buried place in the greenside rough. He was then left with a difficult eight-footer which he just failed to hole.
Results: La Keith won 3 & 1 v Trevor Schirmer; Tony Thorne won 2 & 1 v Al Keith; Glynn Nicholas won 2 up v Chris Knapp; Russell Exley won 1 up v B.J. Smith.
Friday, July 11, Greenwood - Stableford
1st Trevor Schirmer 46pts
2nd Suichi Kodaka 45pts
3rd Rodney Hayes 42pts
4th Brian Libbey 41pts
5th Alan Pilkington 39pts
6th Derek Holt 39pts
7th Peter Aitcheson 38pts
8th Glynn Nicholas 38pts
9th Stephen Beard 38pts
Following his exit from the matchplay series, Trevor Schirmer had something to prove to some of the doubters in the bar, and prove it he did with his lifetime best score of gross 75 from his 13 handicap. It all added up to an almost unbelievable ten-under converted to 46 stableford points.
It certainly was unbelievable to Suichi Kodaka who surely would must have thought that his 45 was way out in front, going by all previous indicators and competitions, but sadly for him it would be only disappointment after the last players filed their scores, except that his handicap would be going down two.
Also on the very surprised list was Rodney Hayes who, after shooting his best round in Thailand, joined Brian Libbey in the “what happened there” section of the podium. As could be seen from the list of mentions, many others also played well on a course that was in superb condition. In fact over 60% shot in the buffer zone which ensured that the CSS went down for the third time in the week.
Surprisingly with the course playing at its easiest, there were no 2’s in the second division but Rodney Hayes, Trevor Schirmer, Alan Pilkington and Russell Exley had one each in the top flight.

Antonnen advances at Eastern Star

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Eastern Star was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society on Sunday, July 6, as they continued their Sunday golf “specials” with a stableford competition over the well-prepared course.

Another “Player of the Month” award for David Thomas (left) who is seen being congratulated by Mr. Denis.

With the white tees now back on the holes where the greens are temporary, the course still retains vast elements of challenge that make a competition there great fun. A field of high quality with the average handicap approaching fifteen took on their task and found the course ready to match them.
Five people just missed out on the podium with 31 points each and Don Nellis, Stan Kure, Chris Voller, Shuichi Kodaka and Ted Gardner could be forgiven for missing that one putt which could have raised their score. The joint runners-up were Tony Thorne and David Thomas who both garnered 34 points. The winner was Erik Antonnen, the returning Finn whose game has been revitalised over the winter in northern Europe. His 37 points included a front nine of just 37 gross - almost matching his best ever nine-hole gross score.
The day’s rolled over 2’s pot was shared by David Thomas, Paul Quodomine and, for the third successive event Chris Voller. The Booby Bevy went to David Ashman for his split of 4 - 15 points in this, his first competition round with the IPGC in three years. Well done Erik, if only your “Finnish” had been as good as your start!
Boss back
in business - just!
On Tuesday, July 8, the Pattaya Golf Society visited Khao Kheow for a stableford round over the testing C and A nines under brooding skies. A trip there now is “child’s play” after many months of arduous driving during the highway reconstruction.
The players found the course in fine condition and, with the reintroduction of the A nine, playing off the yellow tees would be a daunting task, especially as the wind was up all day. As always the essence of a good round on this track is accuracy as the Bermuda rough can be a brute.
Two in-form golfers held the minor placings as Erik Antonnen took third with 30 points and Don Nellis ended his current stay with 31 for second. It was left to the OK Corral’s golf gaffer, Len Jones, to find the top of the leaderboard with a steady 32 points for a rare win.
David Thomas and Erik Antonnen took the 2’s pot for their birdie efforts on C3 and A5 respectively and Chris Voller had the distinction of receiving the Booby Bevy for his shabby round, his putting touch having deserted him on the back nine, and failing to record a ‘2’ for the first time in five rounds.
Later at the presentation David Thomas received the Society’s “Player of the Month” award for June after another series of high quality performances. Khao Kheow had once again been a real challenge and currently is very good value for money.
Voller victor at flooded Phoenix
Any thoughts of a comfortable day’s golf with the Pattaya Golf Society at Phoenix on Thursday, July 10, were blown away as the golfers fought their way through a deluge on Sukhumvit only to find the approach to Phoenix was dry.
Golfers never “count their chickens” and by the second hole on the Mountain-Ocean combination all thoughts of a good medal score in the monthly event were scuppered as persistent heavy rain had set in. Indeed four sensible souls had already left the course before nine holes were completed.
Those who chose to continue found conditions improved slightly as the day progressed but the effect on the scores was already punitive. In third place with net 76 was the steady Aussie golfer Evan Miller and he finished his round as he started it, with a smile on his face. One shot better was a drenched Bill Hewitt on 75. The winner was Chris Voller, taking his first monthly win, and his first nine gross of 38 at the height of the storm was a fantastic achievement. Shots gained were then lost on the back nine and he finished with a very creditable level par 72.
Understandably there were no birdie 2’s on the day and the two biggest losers, Len Jones and Bill Quon, who had left the course believing they were in the majority, enjoyed the Booby Bevy as a consolation. Ain’t life a bitch in the Land of Smiles!

Chaten bags a brace

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, July 6, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Bruce Milner (14) 40pts
2nd Bob Newell (6) 38pts
3rd Joe Mcardle (12) 37pts
B Flight
1st Chaten Patel (15) 39pts
2nd Alec Hoare (17) 38pts
3rd Bob Lindburg (16) 34pts
Near pins: #2 Chaten Patel, #9 Don Lehmer, #12 Roy Thornton, #16 Robin Peach.
2’s: Bruce Milner, Bob Newell, Roy Thornton (2), Chaten Patel, Ivan Plunkett and Robin Peach.
In what was a warm up to next week’s monthly medal, the quiet Aussie Bruce Milner climbed two places better than last week’s third place finish to win the senior flight with an excellent top score of the day 40pts. Second place went to Bob Newell who was two points adrift. Joe “hot pants” Mcardale was one adrift of Bob in third spot. Just out of the prizes on 36pts, were Roy Thornton and Eric Desmond.
Chaten Patel won the junior flight with a very good 39pts. Alec Hoare, the Co. Dublin man, was second with 38 pts with the Guru of Green Valley Bob Lindburg rounding out the flight with 34pts. Unlucky Eddie the Eagle was one off the podium.
Back at Lewiinski’s, after the prize giving, the ‘hidden six’ lucky winner was announced as Bob Newell with Kris K in second place.
Tuesday, July 8, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Chaten Patel (15) 37pts
2nd Bruce Milner (14) 37pts
3rd Owen McSweeny (14) 36pts
B Flight
1st Tom Breslin (21) 34pts
2nd Chas Sheppard (16) 33pts
3rd Rodney Hayes (28) 33pts
A fair sized field turned out to play the A/C nines at Laem Chabang.
Sunday’s A and B flight winners, Chaten Patel and Bruce Milner, battled it out in the senior division, both scoring 37pts. Chaten won after scoring 20pts on the back nine to Bruce’s 17. Third place was a three-way count back between Pat Regan, Vic Hestor and Owen McSweeny. Mr. McSweeny had the better back nine to take third spot.
The junior flight was also a close affair, Tom Breslin winning with 34pts and second place went to Chas Sheppard after a count back over Rodney Hayes, both with 33pts
There were five 2’s from Vic Hestor, Simon Philbrook, Jim Brackett, Joe Tynan and Jim Brown.
Friday, July 11, Crystal Bay - Stableford
A Flight
1st Benn Nelson (17) 43pts
2nd Jack Spencer (7) 42pts
3rd Bob Newell (6) 37pts
Crystal Bay welcomed the Lewiinski’s group to round off the week, and what a battle it turned out to be. Big Bob Newell scored an impressive 37pts, to take the bronze, but he was no match for the American pair of Benn Nelson from Texas, and the retired ex-Marine Lieutenant Colonel Jack Spencer.
Benn “Tex” Nelson shot an amazing 43pts to take the gold whilst Jack “the Loo” Spencer finished with the silver just one shot adrift. Sympathy must go to Loo with a gross 73, but its points that count.
There were three 2’s recorded from Jack Spencer, Nick Payne and Geoff Kubas.
Back at Lewiinski’s, Tex claimed the gold finish, and a revised handicap.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in, and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided to the golf courses.

Walt hits the top: Kevin has sand trouble

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

The skies were overcast but no rains fell. It was another perfect day for golf.
Walt Straub again made his way to the top. It wasn’t the best score that he has shot but it was enough to trounce the field. Walt came in with 37 points, which was 3 better than our second place finisher.
Bob Benda had a shot to win the day but his game fell apart. His 34 points were still good for second though as the rest of the golfers were off their game.
Kevin Worl, in from the USA, really had a bad day as his bunker shots went screaming across the greens and over to the next county. It was his first for golf out here so he had an excuse. Kevin is waiting for Friday so he can make an entry at Ban Chang. See you all there.

Macey hits form at Navy

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, July 7, Plutaluang - Stableford
1st William Macey (10) 40pts
2nd Gerry Cooney (11) 39pts
3rd Geoff Hart (19) 38pts
Playing Stableford on the Royal Thai Navy South and East courses at Plutaluang on Monday, there were some fine scores coming into the clubhouse on a slightly breezy but pleasant day.
Geoff Hart thought he had a good chance of winning with 38 points but it was only enough to take third place. Gerry Cooney was thinking the same with 39 points but he could only manage second place behind William Macey who won with a fantastic 40 points, a score which put him among the front-runners for the ‘golfer of the month’ title.
William also won a near pin prize along with Gerry Cooney, Geoff Hart and Stan Kure.
Wednesday, July 9, Pattana - Stableford
1st Alan Sullivan (15) 37pts
2nd Geoff Parker (15) 36pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (11) 35pts
Wednesday, and we played stableford again at the delightful Pattana Golf and Sports Resort.
On another fine day and we were lucky with the rain swirling around nearby, but we escaped with just a slight bit of drizzle and it was Alan Sullivan who came up trumps in another close finish. Alan won with 36 points, one ahead of Geoff Parker who was himself just one ahead of third placed Gerry Cooney.
Alan also won a near pin prize, as did William Macey, Paul Smith and Colin Stokes.
Friday, July 11, Treasure Hill - Stableford
1st Colin Greig (14) 35pts
2nd Gerry Cooney (11) 34pts
3rd Colin Stokes (25) 33pts
Completing a week of stableford games on Friday at Treasure Hill, we had another close finish with only one point separating the top three again.
Today it was Colin Greig who came out on top to win ahead of second placed Gerry Cooney with Colin Stokes taking third.
Surprisingly none of these three won any of the near pin prizes as they went to Stan Kure, Roger Privett, Charlie Gooch and William Macey.

Wet weather equals frustration for TR golfers

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
I have been writing reports on the golf that is run by Fergus Brennan and the TRGG for well over two years now and this week was the first time that I have ever known for an outing to be totally cancelled because of the weather. Many have been delayed but never cancelled. Tuesday was a total washout.
Everybody gathered for departure but it was soon pretty obvious after a confirmation call to the course that the rain was in for the day. So everyone agreed to call it a day.
Overall this turned out to be rather a bad week for the TRGG golfers as Monday’s planned outing was also curtailed because of incurred technical difficulties.
Thursday, July 10, Phoenix Mountain & Ocean – Stableford
1st Robert Lamond (6) 41pts
2nd Tewin Lamthong (13) 38pts
3rd Ray Allison (12) 37pts
4th Goerge Bishop (17) 35pts
5th Steve Gould (18) 35pts
6th Paul Challis (29) 35pts
2’s: Robert Lamond, Peter Morris and Akitoshi Ito

Saturday’s winners: George Robinson, Billy Fitzgerald and Gunnar Vangsnes.

The good news for Thursday was that we did finally get out for a day’s golf, this time at Phoenix Mountain & Ocean, and a very good day was enjoyed by all.
This was particularly so for Robert Lamond who dropped in a nice 41-pointer to take the competition by three from Tewin Lamthong (Poopay) on thirty-eight. Ray Allison came in third on thirty-seven.
One story from the day was given to me in which it was told that Steve Gould had been run over with a golf cart by his caddy whilst standing writing out his scorecard. This however did not prevent him completing his round - but his foot was very sore the next day.
Saturday, July 12, Eastern Star - Stableford
1st Billy Fitzgerald (19) 41pts
2nd George Robinson (12) 36pts
3rd Gunnar Vangsnes (25) 35pts
4th Fergus Brennan (9) 34pts
5th Peter Morris (24) 33pts
6th George Bishop (17) 33pts
This course is getting better week-by-week and is going to be very good indeed when all the work is finished. The weather, unlike earlier in the week, was back to normal i.e. very hot and I saw many of the returning golfers suffering from various amounts of sunburn.
The day most definitely belonged to a visitor from Ireland who joined us, Billy Fitzgerald, who returned a fine score of forty-one points. This was five better than George Robinson in second whilst Gunnar Vangsnes was a further point back in third on thirty five and Fergus Brennan came in fourth with thirty four. There were no 2’s so the bell was rung back at the Travellers Rest for all in attendance.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

‘The Hawk’ from the Blue Lagoon picked up the ‘Alexander Graham Bell’ to ask, “Who are your top 10 fighters of all time?”
Can’t do 10 but how about favorite fighters of all time? As it’s “favorite” and not “best’ there’s some leeway in the answer.
Number #1 is Joe Louis at the top of the list alone. He’s there as a fighter, a person and a human being for all people. The rest of the list, in no particular order, are ones I loved to watch fight either in person or on TV, or even listen to their fights on the radio. Some are friends, some I’ve met and some I’d like to meet.
Here’s the list: Carl “Bobo” Olsen, Sugar Ray Robinson, Kid Gavalian, Carlos Monzon, Rocky Marciano, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, David Tua, George Foreman, Oscar De La Hoya, Wayne McCullough, Kostya Tzsyu, “Smokin” Joe Frazer, Art Aragon and Mando Ramos.
‘The Hawk’ didn’t ask but I can’t leave the ladies out of any list: Lali McCarter, Via Zaganas, Laura Serrano, Lucia Rijker and Christy Martin.
You don’t like this list? Get your own column.
Mando Ramos passes
Anyone that ever saw a young Mando Ramos fight would agree that whatever it was he had, he had “it” in spades. In the obits he was called “one of boxing’s greatest talents, colorful and controversial, blessed with a natural talent, great jab, murderous left hook and the heart of a lion.”
He turned pro in 1965 and in a very short time was at the top of his game. While he stayed in the ring for 10 years the last four were not pretty. He was a shot fighter battling not only the opponent in the ring but drugs and alcohol outside. His final record was 37-11 but the first 6 years he was 28-3.
Ramos was a main event boxer at the historic Olympic Auditorium after only 8 fights and at the age of 18. He became the youngest world lightweight champion ever when he stopped “Teo” Cruz in 11. He would lose the title to Ismael Laguna due to cuts while leading on all cards. Ramos and Spaniard Pedro Carrasco (106-3) would then engage in a three-fight title trilogy. Ramos won 2-1 giving while Carrasco 2 of this 3 career losses.
Fightnews.com writes: “Three months after his last victory over Carrasco, Ramos was surprisingly stopped by underdog Chango Carmona. At the age of 24, Armando Ramos was a spent fighter, a has-been. His last fight was in October 1975, being stopped by a 4-1-1 boxer and retiring with a final tally of 37-11-1 with 23 KOs. Mando was by then broke and sick, having thrown away all his ample ring earnings.”
TSR will remember Ramos as he was on November 28, 1966 when at 11-0 he took on Alfred Franklin (20-23-3) at the first boxing event at the Oakland Arena. He was one of the undercard that featured family friend Carl “Bobo” Olsen against Don Fulmer on top.
It’s as if it were yesterday that Ramos bounced into the ring in a maroon velvet thigh length robe with his pitch black hair cut “Beatle style”. The crystal clear tones of ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, “From Sam Pedro, California, with a record of 13 wins and 9 big knockouts, please welcome Mando Ramos.” He was something special.
Upon further review
Sometimes it’s best to sit on a story to see if ‘upon further review’ the situation changes. That was the case in regard to ‘retired’ boxer Floyd Mayweather jr’s latest attempt to validate that he’s a blithering idiot. Upon ‘further review’ - he is. In a recent interview the ‘blithering idiot’ implied that HBO, who made him a millionaire many times over, is racist.
Mayweather protested: “Even a guy like Jim Lampley, he praises Kelly Pavlik - who has won some good fights, he beat Jermain Taylor twice, we have to give him credit for that - but they talk about Kelly Pavlik, a white fighter, like he’s the second coming, or they go crazy over Manny Pacquiao. But I’m a black fighter. Is it racial? Absolutely. They praise white fighters, they praise Hispanic fighters, whatever. But black fighters, they never praise. I’ve noticed it for a long time but I couldn’t say anything because I had to do business with them. I’ll still do business with them, but I’m done holding my tongue.”
Someone ought to do the sporting public a big favor, not by holding Mayweather’s tongue, but by cutting it out to prevent him from making an even a bigger “horses hinny” of himself.
What does Mayweather want HBO and boxing to do? Get down on their knees five times a day to pray to his greatness? To his good works like trying to run his pregnant girlfriend off the road, or evicting his father from the house he bought him, or telling the world that he feels like a slave working for HBO?
Some things get better by subtraction. Boxing is better when the likes of Mayweather jr. are no longer factors. He is a bum and a hood with lots of “street cred” that drives decent people away from supporting the sport.
HBO, as expected issued its usual mealy-mouthed response: “Floyd is a tremendous athlete who gave his all to the sport. We have nothing but admiration for what he accomplished in the ring. His remarks regarding HBO broadcasters and executives are unfortunate and we could not disagree more. We will not engage in a debate. We are very disappointed in hearing about this. We wish him well in retirement.”
What a feline response. How about, “Listen you little jerk. Jim Lampley did everything but kiss your backside, cause that’s what he’s paid to do. Calling Jim Lampley a racist indicates what a complete moron your are. Give us a call when your money and the sycophants that surround you are gone. Oh yes, but don’t call collect.”
Jeeves report
Boxing in Thailand depends on ‘good’ Thai boxers inviting ‘average’ boxers in to build records. Sometimes as Mum used to say, “There’s a slip betwixt the cup and lip.”
That happened last week when Pichitchok Singmanassak (14-7) tried to defend his WBO-Asia Pacific bantam title against Filipino Jason Egera (10-2). Egera used Pichitchok as a live punching bag, knocking him down twice in round 4, once in round 6, and finally “putting marmalade on the toast “ at 1:37 of the 7th.
WBC lady “atomweight” champ Winyu Paradorngym (14-7) faired better. She had no trouble defeating Paetonglek Jindamanee (0-1) over six stanzas. Winyu will defend her WBC crown against Japanese Momo Koseki (5-2) at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on August 11.
‘Almost’ kudos to the WBC board of governors for ‘almost’ voting to make Humberto Soto their 130lb champion. I say ‘almost’ because late in the week the vote was too close to call as the WBC waited for all votes to arrive. It’s very possible that promoter Bob Arum’s announcement that Soto would maybe battle Manny Pacquiao in November could have caused the delay.
If the WBC Board votes to give Soto the title, then he moves up to 135lb and the WBC is without a 130lb champion.
If you recall, officially Soto lost to Francisco Lorenzo but “unofficially” Lorenzo got his fanny spanked. The WBC board of governors should do what the Nevada commission and at least one Yahoo boxing writer didn’t have the guts to do. Declare the ‘winner’ the winner.
Thai boxer Klathanong Sithkrupon (8-5) went to Shoalhaven, NSW last week to build the record of Shannon Taylor (47-6-3). Some may not remember that the highlight of Taylor’s career was going 6 losing rounds with Shane Mosley some years back.
Klathanong was down twice in the first in this one, got a standing 8 in the second before Taylor ‘made things go dark’ at 1:23 of the third. Klathanong’s record is even worse than it looks as he’s beaten only one boxer with a winning record, and that 2-1. Not only didn’t Klathanong belong in the ring with Taylor, but probably not in the same sport either.
From the pond and his lily pad Sir Frog croaks: “They should ban those corrupt managers from Thailand, the young Thai boxers get beaten and the managers get away with the money! B*****ds!” Oh my.
Joe Koizumi strikes again
As only he can, Hall of Fame everything boxing guy Joe Koizumi has done it again. Reporting on the fight last Saturday between Japan’s Yukio Wadamine (24-3-1), and Thailand’s Ngaotawan Sithsaithong (7-6, 3) he penned a classic. The fight ended in a TKO at 0:13 of the 3rd round.
Joe wrote: “The Thailander was praying toward the corner post even after the bell sounded to start the fatal third. The moment he turned back to the Japanese, Wadamine exploded a vicious left hook to have him thrown out of the ring to the press box – a la Jack Dempsey pummeled by Luis Angel Firpo in 1923. The referee didn’t bother to count and promptly raised Wadamine’s arm. Was it a right and fair control of the game?”
Hamburg:
Klitschko-Thompson … Stinkeroo
Before Tony Thompson (31-2) became a heavyweight contender he was a professional sparing partner. In fact he sparred with IBF/WBO champ Wladimir Klitschko, who he challenged for the title on Sunday. Challenged is way too strong a word however. Maybe he ‘shared the ring with’ would work better.
For 5 and one-half rounds Tony Thompson actually looked like he had shed the sparing partner physiological restraints. But half way through the 6th round he gave up and started looking for Klitschko to land a somewhat meaningful punch so he could fall down. It took Klitschko until 1:38 of the 11th.
It’s mystifying why a boxer like Thompson, with the chance of a lifetime, would just give up. Between rounds Thompson’s corner implored him to “get in there.” His answer, “just trust me.” Finally between the 10th and 11th rounds Thompson’s trainer said, “You’re not even trying.” Heck TSR knew that after 6.
Long time boxing fan and TQ Patron Vic ‘O.R.’ Cross has finally had it.
“Howie: This is to notify you that after watching the Klitschko card early a.m. here in Pattaya, I am totally finished with the heavyweight division. You can have it.”
Thanks for the offer O.R. Without being rude, NFW.
Jeeves jives
“Your Lordship, I heard from a friend on the Pattaya police force that they were called to a multi-storied condo on Beach Road. When they arrived they found a “fair haired farang” laying bloodied and dead outside the building. A Thai lady covered in blood, Gee, not her real name, was standing next to the body with a bloody 5-iron in her hand. After first saying she was sleeping when the event occurred, then thinking that maybe she was getting into hot water, she finally admitted hitting the now deceased man with the 5-iron. ‘How many times did you hit him?’ asked the policeman. ‘Maybe 5, 6 or maybe even 7 times – oh, just put me down for a five,’ she replied.”
Libation, a cigar and music if you please Mr. Jeeves.

Sherwood shoots 2-under gross at Siam

PSC Golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, July 7, Burapha - Stableford
It has been a while since the Outbackers played the C & D course, but 38 of them had their way today playing off the whites. Since the start of the summer eclectic in May; it’s only been played twice, the last time being June 9.
Rosco made it a day with a difference, in celebration of his birthday (he didn’t say how many), he put up 4 near pin prizes for his fellow Outbackers to have a go at. Two of them were won by Des Scott, but no 2’s, another by Bill Mooney and the last by Paul Lavender. Thanks Rosco, and Happy Birthday!
Dave Porter & Bruce McAdam had matching 39’s to take Div A & Div C quite comfortably, whereas Div B was a more closely fought affair with a three-way count back for second place.
Div A (0-14)
1st Dave Porter (13) 39pts
2nd Nick Payne (14) 35pts
3rd James Brackett (6) 34pts
Div B (15–18)
1st Murray Hart (17) 35pts
2nd Kevin Moraghan (17) 33pts
3rd Frank O’Neill (16) 33pts
Div C (19+)
1st Bruce McAdam (21) 39pts
2nd William Mooney (19) 32pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 31pts
2’s: Pottsy, William Mooney & James Brackett
Tuesday, July 8, Phoenix -  Stableford
It was a full house, perfect dozen ‘early rise’ Outbackers who played Mountain and Lake on a lovely day for golf and a round of just about 4 hours. There was an air of expectancy that today was the day, the 2’s just had to go, and everybody was up for it.
Four new faces this morning joining for the first time: Pimusa, Mod, Jeff and Gus, having not played previously on a Tuesday, the larger than usual ‘2’s pot’ contribution, signalled their confidence.
Well, Am North and Mod Churaiska were vindicated, after 4 weeks of no 2’s there were two today, both by ladies and both by newcomers to the Phoenix early bird. Good job Jeff was on hand as escort, since they shared a considerable pot! Well played girls (hard luck guys – moan moan, grizzle grizzle)
For the rest of the golf, it was Ray Dell’s day with an excellent 38 points, followed by Pimusa with 37 and Am with 36.
Outback ‘Early Risers’ meet at Phoenix at 07:30 for an 8 a.m. tee time and a quick round with the presentation in the clubhouse. We are usually on our way back to wherever, by 1 pm. Sign-up at the Outback or give Bob a call
1st Ray Dell (12) 38pts
2nd Pimusa Tonkhoksoong (20) 37pts
3rd Am North (11) 36pts
Wednesday, July 9, Crystal Bay - Stableford
Fourteen Outbackers braved the wind and rain to enjoy their golf on this fantastic course. Dave Spendley took the course apart with an equally fantastic 40 points leaving everybody else in the mud some 6 or 7 shots adrift.
Our resident ‘Turnip’ should drink but not drive, as he managed to bury his golf buggie in one of the drainage channels; requiring the assistance of numerous caddies and playing partners to lift it back out. Let the caddie drive Dennis!
As for John Lawton, currently on leave from Angola (why did they let him leave?), he should be more careful when attaching anonymous little cryptic notes to Capt’ Bob’s vehicle. Six letter words that start with ‘w’ and end in ‘er’ are not difficult to solve when you’re a crossword expert like Bob. Anyhow John, everybody knows it’s your trade word.
There were no 2’s today so back at the bar the bell was rung for all the golfers.
Div A (0–17)
1st Bob Philp (7) 33pts
2nd Rosco (16) 30pts
3rd Ken Little (10) 30pts
Div B (18+)
1st Dave Spendley (20) 40pts
2nd Paul Crosland (19) 34pts
3rd Pottsy (19) 34pts
Friday, July 11, Siam Plantation - Stableford
When the names of 41 Outbackers were given to Siam Plantation on Thursday afternoon, they looked somewhat quizzical and said, ‘but you don’t have a booking tomorrow’. Every Friday at 11am was the reply, right through to the end of October. There had been a monumental mistake and unfortunately the Outbackers got seriously mixed up with some Siam cement, who were mostly five-balls enjoying their golf day, resulting in play so slow, everybody could have turned to concrete.
There has been a very gracious apology from the Plantation management which is also echoed by the Outback Golf Bar.
Back to the golf, a brilliant gross 70, which included a double bogey on the 18th, by Mark Sherwood, Frederick Jacobson’s ex caddie, thoroughly tamed this course. George Bishop had a fine round taking second overall with 37. Jim Brackett took Div A with 35, Eddie Smith Div B with 36 and Andy Durnitz Div C with 33.
A big welcome today to four members of the German-Swiss Golf Club based in Pattaya, led by their chairman, Helmut Wolf; and also to Lee Adelly, hotfoot from Russia where he caddied for last week’s European Seniors tour’s winner, Ian Woosnam.
There were five 2’s today coming from Pat Regan, Jim O’Neill, Mark Sherwood & George Bishop (2).
Overall
1st Mark Sherwood (4) 42pts
2nd George Bishop (17) 37pts
Div A (0-11)
1st James Brackett (6) 35pts
2nd Chris Voiler (8) 32pts
3rd Tony Thorn (10) 32pts
Div B (12-17)
1st Eddie Smith (14) 36pts
2nd Lee Adelly (13) 35pts
3rd Paul Lavender (15) 33pts
Div C (18+)
1st Andy Durnitz (18) 33pts
2nd Tony Duthie (20) 31pts
3rd Jum (36) 31pts
Friday, July 11, Plutaluang – Stableford
Eleven Outbackers played the South & West courses of this parkland venue, in the alternative Friday Outback Golf Bar outing. It was a moderate scoring event but nonetheless, extremely competitive with three players, Geoff, Barry & Joachim all vying for the top spot with 30 points apiece.
The difficult West course became the back nine, and Geoff’s fine 17pts gave him the win, over Chad who only managed 12 and Joachim 11.
There were no 2’s, so there will be another rollover.
1st Geoff Doody (21) 30pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 30pts
3rd Joachim (24) 30pts

Per Olaf strikes at soggy Phoenix

Paul shoots gross 71 to take the ‘A Flight’ by three

PSC 80th Members Golf Monthly Open

Derek Brook
Friday, July 11, Phoenix.
The test for this day was to be the Mountain and Ocean nines, and as we drove down there to Phoenix the big fear was that we would have downpours like the day before. The sky did not look too bad, a little overcast but we lived in hope as we drew up to the clubhouse and passed our clubs to the caddy-master.

Golf Chairman Perry (left) presents first prize to the A Flight winner.
Inside was the team of Tim and Max, and the new Golf Chairman Perry McNeely, who was running around like a scolded cat. It was after all his first day and his first competition in charge.
Booked in it was off to the first tee, and on the day half the players started from The Ocean, while half played first from the Mountain nine. The course was in its usual fine condition and the weather behaved, apart from a couple of spots of rain.
The day went well and about 4 hours later we were trundling down the Mountain nine. A fine walk around, and for once not spoilt. Someone up there seems to like the new Golf Chairman, he had great weather for his first day, 24 hours earlier he would have been awash.

Ning Morris (right) was the winner of the Ladies competition.
Back in the clubhouse we were met by Tim and Max who, as a special favour to us all, had been testing the ‘Phoenix Special’ - and they pronounced it as good value, several times.
The after golf meeting place was upstairs, and we were met by a bevy of waitresses, and of course we all opted for the ‘Phoenix Special’, and as per the good example set by the scorers, more than one were tried out.
The scores were tabulated and shortly after the last players were in the Emcee, Mike Gerrard was able to introduce the new Golf Chairman, Perry Mcneely, who gave the normal golf captain’s speech, thanking all his helpers and the course for their assistance. Then he handed the ‘mike’ back to Mike who then got on with the results. We all know how shy Mike is so it took a little persuasion before we could get him to do the Emcee, however once into his stride you would never have guessed how nervous he was.

Loyal ‘servants’ Tim and Max man the registration desk.
So to the results, and with so few ladies playing today we only had one winner in the Ladies Flight, and this was Ning Morris with a very nice 35 points.
In the D Flight, in fourth place we had Darren Sellers with 32 points just behind Kevin Dinan in third with 33 points, in second was Chris John with 35 points while way ahead as winner was Andy Spence with 39 points
By now the really observant will have noticed that the D Flight were playing stableford. Well so were the C Flight, and the fourth there was Brian Blackford with 33 points, just behind Mike Wing in third with 34 points. It was good to see Mike back in the prizes as he has been having some medical problems, well done. In second place came Frank Pilkington with 35 points and the winner of the flight was Bob Lindborg with 36 points.
Into the B Flight and we now go into a stroke competition: It is probably thought that the (better!) golfer can be trusted not to take too long on a hole. Well this day seemed to disprove that concept. In fourth we had Phil Cause with a net 75 just behind a count back on net 74 that saw Roger Moore (007?) in third and Mike Gerrard in second. So to the winner and here we had our most famous member Brian Jacks winning with a net 68. Of course we didn’t take a photo of him for reasons that must remain secret, but could have something to do with ‘The Phoenix Special.’
So to the A Flight and let us get straight in with the winner as Paul Smith, the PSC Golf Champion, struck again with a fine net 68, off a handicap of three. Makes it a gross 71 to me. In second was John Beck with a net 71 ahead of Damien Trant in third with a net 72 and Jeff North, alias Mr. Steady, was in fourth with a net 73.
Presentation over we got onto the important part of the day, the Lucky Draw, and then it was home for an early night, and if you believe that you will believe anything. T.T.F.N.
Long Drive: (0-18) Mark McDonald; (19-36) Derek O’Hara; (Ladies) Primusa
Near Pins: Mike Morris, Ning Morris, Gordon Everingham, Bob Rasmusson, Clive Bruce, Mam Morel

The P.S.C. throws a swinging summer party

Derek Brook
Wednesday, July 9, and this is the time of the year that the ladies break out their prettiest dresses and many of the men change into long trousers - after first removing the moths of course. One thing is for certain; this has to be the meeting of the year for really stunning women and ‘sexy’ men. Yes I do fall into the latter category and have the pension to prove it.
The venue was The Town in Town Hotel, back again on the schedule after a side trip at Xmas to The Asia Pacific. I suppose a change is as good as a rest. The queue at the entrance formed early and in the event the doors were opened before schedule to avoid a crush. The tables soon started to fill up and with all the tickets sold early it was surprising to see that there was still space for more to be seated, and all were able to move freely.
Settling into our seats we were serenaded by the music of the 4 in 1 (or Four in One) band, and the drinks arrived quickly. It was pleasant to stroll around and mingle with old friends, that is until that fateful call was made by The President, Dennis Willet: “Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome and the buffet is ready.” Then it was a case of stand aside or get trampled in the stampede. And can’t these Thai ladies eat - I swear my wife is a champion eater and she doesn’t put on an ounce.
The buffet was very nicely laid out around the pool, and all looked absolutely cracking, the people queued calmly and the first few departed to eat. It was a beautiful night, at least for 10 minutes or so and then the heavens opened and the scene changed drastically. It poured down. Some tried to fill their plates up and got soaking wet, while the staff tried frantically to move everything inside. It was difficult for a time. Finally the soaking wet staff managed to set up in the lobby, and fairly normal service was resumed.
Meanwhile back in the central hall that shrinking violet Mike Gerrard had been persuaded to give us all a song, or two or three etc. Mike is a first class artist who earned his living on the entertainment circuit in England. He is a comedian/singer and provides a good show.
On this night he went through his ‘Lady in a Jacket’ routine, then to his ‘Men doing the Hoola Dance’ or such. I think our American members were a little bemused by it all, but the remainder had a good time.
Mike Gerrard is the new Social Chairman of P.S.C. and it will be his role to arrange all future functions. This was Doug Powell’s last event in charge and the two of them worked together on it. In fact it was a swinging night.
One of the main highlights of the evening was the ‘lucky draw’ and many fine prizes were on offer. The draw is done on the ticket number and you have to be there to win your prize. The top prize this year was a gold chain and as luck would have it was the last prize to be drawn and was won by one very happy lady.
With the prize presentation over the dancing began and people eventually started to drift away, but on this night, with the rain still falling outside, many did not drift away as quickly as expected and Mike reports that all the beer was drunk and only three bottles of spirits remained. It appears that everyone had enjoyed themselves and all will be looking forward to the Xmas Party at the end of the year.
From all The Executive Committee at the Pattaya Sports Club – ‘T.T.F.N. and see you at Xmas!’

League of Legends – Round 4 (preview)

Howie Reed
A recent letter to the Pattaya Mail’s Sport editor explains the allure of the League of Legends for those that have put 50 years of age in the “way back.”
Back in the day, not only were the players full of character but those that showed up around the world to watch could have used a few more items attached for a “Happy Meal.” It was this unique blend of great talent and the local pub mentality that made the dart scene from the early 1970’s to the early 1990’s just plain fun.
One very talented dart writer, actually the only one, once described this dart scene as the “world’s largest floating no host cocktail party.” He wrote, “It’s like the circus comes to town, turning an empty room into the center of the universe for dart players of any and all ability. For this brief period of time nothing occurs outside the confines of this real world.”
The Hawk, short for Hawkeye for the character from the movie Mash, was a fixture at dart tournaments throughout North America. The lanky Canadian, topping 6’8" and towering over all, was an imposing figure and a certifiable character.
Each year for the North American Open, America’s premier dart tournament now gone the way of the buggy whip, The Hawk would dress up as Frankenstien handing out match cards.
The Hawk was and is a character. He once volunteered to travel 400 miles to baby sit at an American dart captain’s house while he was away with the USA Pacific Cup team in Hawaii. The Hawk decided to surprise the Capt. by painting his garage door. Well when he arrived home the captain was surprised. The garage door had half it’s paints stripped off to the bare wood. “What the hell?” “I was going to surprise you by painting your garage door. It was too much work.” “I’m surprised.”
The Hawk opines, “Just had to throw in my two cents. The story was like turning back the clock in darts. Nothing has changed, the Crafty Cockney is still cocky but that’s why we love him. The only difference I see is in the picture of the group in the Pattaya Mail. It seems we have a few cue balls. Bobby Anderson, John Lowe and Cliffy. I’m smiling inside while chuckling. The story really brings back many wonderful memories. I really miss them all. Please pass on my best respects to all and let them know they are not forgotten. The Hawk.”
With 4th round action moving to the Batley Frontier in Leeds tonight it’ll be “fish or cut bait” for half the Legends field of 8. Those at the bottom of the table have to gets some points or be out of the race for the final four. The fight to remain relevant will probably be overshadowed by the “main event” when table leaders Dave Whitcombe and Bob Anderson meet for sole possession of first place.
Peter Evison (1-1-1) - John Lowe (0-3)
In normal times this match depends upon which Peter Evison shows up to play. In week one Evison blew a big lead to struggle to a draw against Bob Anderson. He then came back to beat Keith Deller 7-5. Evison then got drilled by a resurgent Bobby George 7-3.
The real question here is will “the real” John Lowe emerge from hibernation. Evison should be a big favorite as John Lowe is the only player without a win. Granted Lowe opened with Whitcombe and Anderson, who top the table, but his inability to “close with a double” has proved fatal.
Might be way too early for a “must win” but that’s what this is for Lowe. If Evison plays like he did against George, Lowe will get his first win which might move him out of the cellar. Evison’s a big favorite of the betting folks with Lowe being the sentimental favorite. Sometimes sentiment is a good thing ... if it hits double.
Keith Deller (2-0-1) – Eric Bristow (1-2)
Deller is quietly moving along in clear, third in the table with a great chance to gain 2 points against Eric Bristow who looked simply horrible against Dave Whitcombe last out.
While scoring average many times means nothing, that’s not the case with Bristow. He beat Bobby George on opening night but had the lowest scoring average of any of the winners at 24.89. Since then he’s been between the mid 20’s and 22. That won’t get it done here.
Bristow’s charisma probably will get him a couple of legs. If Deller gets 2 out of the first 3 it will probably be a route: 7-3 would be a Bristow moral victory which provides no points.
Bobby George (1-2) – Cliff Lazarenko (1-2)
Two players that while sharing fifth place are moving in different directions.
George comes off a great win over Peter Evison 7-3 last out. How good was that win? George had the highest scoring average of the night at 27.60 on a night when scoring wasn’t very good. Translation? He closed the deal when he got the chance.
Cliff Lazarenko comes off a 7-3 loss to Bob Anderson. Lazarenko was visibly “irritated” by the crowd which should never happen to a seasoned pro.
The two are in a flat footed tie in the table with points and legs won. While their recent 100 plus scores are about even, last out George had a pair of 180’s and 9-140’s in 10 legs. Lazarenko got a 180 but only 3-140’s in 10 legs. Old dart saying: “140 better than 100.” George is on a high and should get anther “W”.
Dave Whitcombe (3-0) – Bob Anderson
(2-0-1)
A “Clash of Titans” might be overstating the case here but certainly any match between number #1 and #2 has the potential.
Dave Whitcombe has been almost perfect through the first three nights of play. He’s never been challenged and except for the brief “hiccup” in leg 8 against Bristow he’s been spot on.
Anderson struggled in the opening legs of his first match against Peter Evison. He came back from 4-1 and 5-2 for a 6-6 draw. Since then it’s been “Katie bar the door.” Anderson has been as efficient as any player by not wasting opportunities.
Just 1 point and 1 leg won separate these two in the standings but they are even closer than that. Their scoring averages are the same and both are playing very well. A “Kissing your sister” 6-6 result would not be a surprise.