German martial artist shatters record

The parking lot right outside the Pattaya Mail offices was the scene of a new world record recently, set by a man who does not appear to feel pain and with who it would probably be unwise to pick a fight.

Andreas Ahrendt sets a new world brick-breaking record outside the Pattaya Mail offices.

In order to break as many building bricks as possible within 60 seconds with bare feet, one needs power and speed. A reduced sensation of pain also helps. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the record stood at 33 bricks. But that was going to change on Wednesday, July 30, as Henry Andreas Ahrendt, 44, from Germany was in sensational shape.
Two brick rows of about 20 yards in length, slightly curved, were laid out with two bricks on top of each other. After a brief preparation period, Ahrendt raised thumbs to signal his readiness to break the record.
What the gathered media witnessed was an impressive demonstration of Ahrendt’s willpower and stamina. He broke all the double-layered bricks with a single blow.
After checking the footage, Pattaya Mail announced a new world record. Ahrendt had broken an unbelievable 112 bricks, literally pulverizing the old record. But how can someone endure such a thing, all spectators asked themselves.
“Stern discipline,” Ahrendt said. The experienced martial artist has been practicing regularly, sacrificing a lot of his free time to achieve this. “Up at 6, to bed at 9, and in between practice, practice, practice!”

The sturdy bricks proved to be no match for strongman Andreas.
During his attempt, he was on another level, mentally speaking. How else could one bear such pain? Despite the fact that Ahrendt’s fingers, hands (he is ambidextrous) and feet had become toughened by all the years of practice, the pain after the successful attempt could be seen in his facial expression. “It’s not that these things were made of cardboard!” However, a person who can bring body, mind and soul into unison overcomes any kind of pain.
Over the previous three months, Ahrendt had prepared himself in Pattaya.
Another reason why Ahrendt chose Pattaya for his attempt was the relatively constant temperatures all year long. This is essential for some other things he does, like breaking chopsticks with his throat. As a bonus, he did just that: while kneeling, he held the tip of a chopstick to his throat and applied so much pressure to it that it would finally break. It’s not necessarily recommended to try that at home.
Ahrendt will now send the footage to England for Guinness to thoroughly check it and confirm the new world record.
By no means shall this stay his only record, for Ahrendt plans to create a furor in Paris and London fairly soon. And, who knows, when he returns to Pattaya in the high season, he might have set a few more world records by then. Break a leg, Henry!

Kevin Mitch is Jackalope Open champ – half a million raised for charity

The Canadian Jackalope Open 2008

Wayne Ogonoski
Friday, 8 August - Burapha Golf Club
The day began with cloudy skies and the organizing committee was out on the course early to make sure all was in order. During the morning the participating golfers arrived at Burapha Golf Club for registration and the proceeded to down the traditional Caesar, a Canadian breakfast speciality and then take in a long drive demonstration by Jean Daniels using some very unusual clubs and techniques.

Kevin Mitch, the 2008 Jackalope Open champion poses with his trophy.

By 11:30 everyone headed out to the golf course ready for the shotgun start and much anticipation hung in the air as individuals prepared their minds towards a good round - of course some of the golfers were thinking when they would see the beer cart first.
At 12 Noon the shotgun was fired and the golfers were off, a true test of golf on the narrow fairways. The field moved around the course with not too many hold ups encountered and after just five hours the first groups arrived back at the club house.
The golfers were treated to a splendid buffet provided by the staff of Burapha while they waited for the scores to be tabulated and the winners announced.
Prize giving began with Dave Pittman returning as Emcee, he did a sterling job and the technical awards were presented with the long drives going to Khun Suchart in Division 1, Eddy Beilby in Division 2, Matt Millar in Division 3, John Kennedy in the Rabbits Division and Puttida Thongpen in the Ladies Division.

Ladies champion Puttida Thongpen (left) receives her prize from Mark Gorda.

Nearest the pin awards were won by Uwe Wegner, Alan Russell, Jason Kerr, Malcolm Roe, Tanason Witomgontien, Jonathan Berry, Mike Seely, Rich Wibrow, Kamol Thongkiao, Bill Hewitt, Stefan Hoge, Bill Marsden, John Kennedy, Puttida Thongpen, Richard Steadman, Paul Moore, Bobby Taylor, and Chant Schulera. The nearest the keg was won by Anaree Sayachai
The Ladies Division runner up was Sukanya Buraprat with 33 points beating out La Keith, Ananree Sayachai and Nong Dumas in a count back. First place in the Ladies Division was claimed by Puttida Thongpen with 36 points.

Division 2 winner Paul Moore (right).

In the Rabbits Division Rob Mitchell beat out youngster Ty Kerr in a count back with 34 points for the runner up spot and winning the Rabbits Division was Malcolm Roe with 35 points.
Division 3 third place was won by Alan Pearce with 37 points, losing out in a count back to second place winner Carl Lovatt, also with 37 points and first place was won by 13 year old Jason Kerr with an amazing 40 points.
Division 2 third place went to Eddy Beilby, beating out Roy Thornton in a count back with 36 points, second place went to Ed Townsley with 39 points and in first place was Paul Moore with 40 points.
Division 1 third place went to Rick Montana beating out Uwe Wegner in a count back with 35 points, in second place was Barry Winton, losing out in a count back to winner Doug Lynch, both with 38 points.

Division 1 winner Doug Lynch (right) with Mark Gorda.

Doug Lynch also shot the lowest gross score of the day with 73, an extremely good round of golf.
The Jackalope Champion for 2008 was Kevin Mitch amassing 41 points on the day.
Following the awards ceremony lucky draw prizes donated by Bob Van Mol, Mark Gorda, Rob Kennedy, the Kerr family, Jameson’s The Irish Pub, Canukville and The Diamond Shop were given out before the much-anticipated 50-50 draw was made. Geoff Lever Jr. playing in his first ever Jackalope Open had the pleasure of winning 95,000 baht: Geoff very generously donated back B45,000 to the charity fund. Thank you Geoff.

The Division 3 winner was 13-year old Jason Kerr (right) with an amazing 40 points.

In his never ending quest to generate funds for the organizations that benefit from the tournament, Mark Gorda had pledged to donate 1,000 baht for every birdie and 5,000 baht for every eagle scored on the day. There were 31 birdies and 1 eagle scored adding an additional B36,000 to the fund.
Thanks go to all the staff at Burapha Golf Club for the excellent service provided on the day, especially the resident Pro - Egon Neilsen for all his help.
We would also like to thank the following businesses and individuals who helped raise an outstanding amount of 500,000 baht for the 2008 charity fund - Baltex Industries, Bob Van Mol, Bobby Taylor & family, Dale & Ann Drader, Derek Reaper, Foxy Bar, Geoff Lever Jr., Hoser & family, Jack Levy, Jameson’s The Irish Pub, John Wright, Keith Sandstrom, Ken Cooke, KPK Food Services, Mark Campbell, Matt Millar & family, Mike Peters, Moe Deverdenne, Murray Kerr & family, Neil Sandilands, Nick Demetrof, Pattaya Sports Club, Paul Ovens, Petro Canada-Syria, PPS-Middle East, Ray Lepard, Rich Wibrow, Rob Kennedy, Stephan Hoge, Stream Flo, Tahitian Queen, Thai-Ger Line Golf, The Beaver Bar, The Blue Parrot, The Diamond Shop, The Jesters MC, The Palm Tree Restaurant & Bar, Vance Millar, Wayne Ogonoski
The Jackalope is not just about golf, it is also about giving back to the local community. On this 10th anniversary of The Canadian Jackalope Open we will now be joining with the Jesters ‘Care For Kids’ to help provide much needed assistance to the poor or disadvantaged children in the area.

The golfers had a great day competing in the 10th Canadian Jackalope Open.

Assandant team wins Lions charity bowling tournament

The Assandant A team were the proud recipients of the Honorary Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Somsawalee.

Vimolrat Signnikorn
The Lions Club of Naklua recently cooperated with the Blue-o Rhythm & Bowl to hold a charity bowling competition on July 27 for the Honorary Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Somsawalee. This competition was held to raise funds for the royal project ‘Encyclopedias for Youngsters’ to help children in the Pattaya City area.
Pattaya City Mayor Itthipol Khunplume officially opened the competition and was accompanied by Pattaya City officials Charnyuth Heng Trakul and Rewatra Phollukin.
The competition was divided into several categories including team and highest individual points awards. Assandant A team lived up to their name by taking the team award and the Honorary Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Somsawalee with a total score of 1,488 points. Following close behind in second place was the Assandant B team with 1,462 points, and third place went to the Sri Sawas team with a score of 1,459 points.
In the minor awards the PP team had the highest total score for a male team, and the Rassamee Praneechart team had the highest score for a female team.
Lt. Sarawoot Sukhoom recorded the highest individual total at win the male award and Chiraporn Sae Han did likewise in the female category.

The bowling competition was organized to help raise funds
for the ‘Encyclopedias for Youngsters’ project.

Three Sisters again defies Mother Nature

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Dark clouds loomed on the Eastern front with a promise of rain. Unbeknown to Mother Nature however, this was the Three Sisters Golf day at the Pattaya Country Club, ergo no rain is permitted.

Tuesday winner Dale Murphy (left) with second placed Herbie Ishinaga.

Having said that the groups took off in good form. Bill Key didn’t have to play catch up this week but the leaders of last week, prideful as they were, dropped nearly to the bottom this time around. Mother Nature did drop in with a brief shower around 9:45am just to tell the TSG group not to be so cocky.
Dale Murphy burned up the course as his Aussie friends kept the score, Dale coming in with 45 points. His regular group had to fork over some “coins of the realm” as Bernard Trick was wont to say.
Herbie Ishinaga came in second with 36 points, but obviously no one could match Dale’s score. Bob Benda, Sus Ige, and Paul Kraft came in with respectable scores and everyone acknowledged Dale’s performance.
The group retired to Caddy Shack II where Herbie again provided some spicy beef and pork sausages to be washed down with the Philippines finest beverage.

German-Swiss Golf Club celebrates 5th anniversary

Roland Weckesser (with trophy) and Jo Schreiner,
both Group B players, have reasons to celebrate.

Peter Nordhues
Members and friends of the German-Swiss Golf Club (GSGC) met on August 1 at the Thai Garden Resort to celebrate the fifth year of the club’s existence at the resort’s Moon River Pub. It was a cheerful party at which the attendees also celebrated the Swiss national day.
Prior to the festivities, an anniversary matchplay golf tournament took place at the Burapha Golf & Country Club. The 42 players were divided into Group A, with a handicap range of 0 to 17, and Group B, with a handicap range of 18 to 36. The teams made sure that only players with equivalent golfing skills would compete against each other.
It was Group B that grabbed a 12:9 victory over their opponents. Due to the weaker handicap, all Group B players were given one extra swing, making it quite tough for the others to compensate. However, it was more about having fun than serious full on competition. Some members of the Sattaya Golf Association, well-disposed towards the GSGC, also participated.
The day was completed with the jubilee party and the handing over of the trophy, taking place at the MRP. Starched by the luxuriant buffet, GSGC President Turi Nagel held a brief speech, appreciating this special day and recalling the early days of the club’s history.
The fist GSGC golf tournament had also taken place at the Burapha course with an after-party at the MRP. The Club was established after many players felt the need to chat with fellow golfers in their native tongue. Any German speaking and golf playing people are welcome to join. As of today, the members come from Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Belgium.
The crowd was all cheers, as both teams received their trophies. Subsequently, everybody had the chance to jargonize, raise the glasses to the occasion of the fifth anniversary and remember some special events and games of the past. A great supporting program added to an entertaining night. People extensively indulged in dancing and singing to the live beats of the Power Jam Band.
A raffle was organized, accumulating some 35,000 baht in revenue. How the money will be used has yet to be decided upon. However, it will be for the benefit of people in need.
Over the years, the German-Swiss Golf Club has obtained a great reputation, reaching above and beyond the city limits of Pattaya.

Matchplay as it should be?

PSC Phoenix Tuesday Group (members & guests) from Toy’s Music Bar

Mike Gerrard
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix – Four-Ball Better Ball
The dreaded matchplay league once again divided friends who normally play together in their weekly social groups.
However, with the few that were left we played our very own matchplay four-ball better ball. So much more sociable than the concept of two singles matches being played within a four-ball and the attitude of “I have to beat another guy for the team,” (and) “Oh by the way, who were them other two guys we played with?”
One good thing about the day was that it left the course relatively quiet and to ourselves. The Mountain and Lakes course have now settled into their normal immaculate, but very difficult condition, and with the weather set very humid it appeared that scoring may be difficult.
We played a stroke play round and would you believe it the scoring was pretty good. Well it was by the first two places. Stuart Gordon recorded a net 68 playing off 14 and the scribe shot a net 69 playing off 12.
Under the new handicapping system introduced this month it means that Stuart is cut 1.2 shots to 13 (12.9) and my own handicap is cut 0.6, but remains at 12 (11.7).
I only hope that when the league season ends, this concept of matchplay golf does not destroy some of the social groups that have developed over the years. It appears that in some cases it already has! Never mind, we will plod on and anyone who wishes to play serious, friendly, but fun golf contact me (Mike Gerrard) on 087 091 7565.

Cooney’s day at Plutaluang

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, 4 August, Emerald – Medal
1st Alan Sullivan (14) net 69
2nd John McDonald (6) net 70
3rd Ken Chung (12) net 74
It was close between the leaders today at the Emerald but Alan Sullivan just pipped John McDonald by one shot to win with a fine three-under par net 69, and Ken Chung got in the frame for the first time to take third place.
Ken and Alan won a near pin prize too along with Gerry Cooney and Mick Benton.
Wednesday, 6 August, Plutaluang - Stableford
1st Gerry Cooney (11) 37pts
2nd Peter Habgood (16) 35pts
3rd William Macey (11) 35pts
Playing the South and East courses at the Thai Royal Navy Course, Gerry Cooney had a great day winning the stableford competition with 37 points and winning two near pin prizes as well.
Second place in the competition went to Peter Habgood who beat William Macey on a count back, both finishing with 35 points.
The other two near pin prizes were taken by Peter Habgood and John Hughes.
Friday, 8 August, Greenwood - Medal
1st Mick Benton (19) net 69
2nd Alan Sullivan (13) net 71
3rd Ken Chung (12) net 71
With the long drive to Greenwood getting easier all the time due to the road works being almost completed, it is a pleasure to play there these days, and it certainly was for Mick Benton who won the Medal competition with a three-under par round. Mick beat Alan Sullivan and Ken Chung who both had a sub par rounds, Alan taking second place on a count back.
Only three near pin prizes were claimed today, two of them by John McDonald and the other one went to Geoff Cox.

Hamstead takes it by one at testing Laem Chabang

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, 5 August, Laem Chabang - Stableford
1st Steve Hamstad 33pts
2nd Walter Baechli 32pts
3rd Anders Pedersen 32pts)
Near Pins: Perry McNeely, Mick Omeara (2), Steve Hampstad
Long Putts: Anders Pedersen & Dick Warberg
Fourteen enthusiastic golfers met Tuesday morning to test their mettle against the challenging Laem Chabang golf course. The weather was fine, except for a strong breeze which maliciously blew against us all day long. This was reflected in the low scores with not one player reaching within 3 strokes of his listed handicap.
However the wind seemed to briefly aid reigning “Golfer of the Year” Perry McNeely, who on the Par 3 A5 hit the pin with his tee-shot, with the ball coming to rest a mere six inches past the hole. He, alas, was not on the leader board for the day but this was undoubtedly the “shot of the day” (for which there is no prize).

Orathai gets her first Birdie

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, 4 August, Bangpra – 2-Person Scramble
1st Barry Winton & Orathai Winton 53
2nd Trevor Schirmer & B.J. Smith 47
3rd Tony Thorne & Ken Deringer 45
4th Tony Barritt & Barry Traynor 44 cb 23
5th Fred Land & Del Bailey 44 cb 22
An outstanding round of golf by the IPGC Club Champion Barry Winton was ably assisted by Orathai, his wife, which resulted in an almost unbeatable score of 17-under. Orathai was carefree of the need to use at least seven of her drives as she easily knocked those off in the first nine and added a couple more on the inward half, and with Barry knocking them onto the greens to within 10 feet almost every time, and a handicap of 14, it was always going to be too much for the rest of the field.
The regular winners, prior to the recent rise of Russell Exley and La Keith who had won three out of the last four, Trevor Schirmer and B.J. Smith had a very nice round with especially B.J. regularly chipping close to secure 3 or 4 points, but had to be satisfied with second spot in the face of the Barry and Orathai onslaught.
Tony Thorne and Ken Deringer, tipped as pre-start dark horses, proved unable to match the old hands and finished third ahead of Tony Barritt and Barry Traynor, the latter being unable to sink all the putts, and Fred Land and Del Bailey. Russell Exley deprived of his usual partner teamed up with Bubbles Davies who neither looked as good nor played as well as the team member he was replacing and they finished well down the field.
There were no 2’s due to the day’s format.
Wednesday, 6 August, Emerald – Stableford
1st Russell Exley 39pts
2nd Al Keith 39pts
3rd Barry Traynor 38pts
4th Jens Gunnarsson 38pts
5th La Keith 37pts
6th Barry Winton 37pts
Russell Exley consolidated his single figure handicap as he cruised round the well prepared and top conditioned Emerald in under 80 to pip one of his mentors, Al Keith by virtue of an excellent back nine following a solid start.
Al was not quite able to match his very good front half and, by his standards, faded to an even par inward half and second place.
Barry Traynor was once again in good form as he took third spot ahead of Jens Gunnarsson on count back with Jens threatening a return to the form that saw his handicap drop dramatically during his last stay in Pattaya.
La Keith just got the better of Barry Winton to secure the last spot on the podium.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back Phillip Cass.
The first division’s 2’s were shared between Tony Thorne, Barry Winton, Trevor Schirmer, Al Keith and La Keith with two. The second division ‘super pot’ was eventually won by Chris Knapp and Orathai Winton: It was especially pleasing for Orathai, for whom it was the very first birdie of her playing career, and a very nice week so far.
Haven Knockout Matchplay
The day was also the start of the Haven August Matchplay which saw an all new line up of matches except for one. That featured Stephen Beard and Tony Thorne and where last month Tony had been the winner in the first round by count back, this month’s meeting was equally competitive with a very tight match all the way to the 17th where unfortunately Tony went into the hazard twice and Stephen quietly closed the door.
Russell Exley had a very tight match with Trevor Schirmer before being able to close Trevor out on the 16th with a birdie. Al Keith had a fairly easy time on the front nine as Glyn Nicholas slumped to a horrid nine-over handicap and by the time Glyn had started to get the ship back on track it was far too late. But he did finish the back nine at seven-under his handicap and just wished it could have been a back to front day.
Tony Barritt gave Chris Knapp a real taste of matchplay after Chris’s last first round win of 10 & 8, he was up against a seasoned campaigner in Tony but went down fighting 4 & 3.
All the other matches were very close indeed, finishing 1 up in each of them: B.J. Smith just getting the better of Derek Holt on the last and Jens Gunnarsson ahead of Brian Kelly with some huge drives and taking the last hole to win.
Barry Traynor was unlucky to find La Keith still in fine form after winning the previous month’s competition and even beating her on points, lost out in the end to two fine birdies on par threes.
Peter Aitcheson, who was desperately trying to put last months result out of mind had a tough battle with Rod Howett that went either way all the match with the lead constantly changing, until the last hole were he slipped in a solid par for the win.
Results: Russell Exley won 3 & 2 v Trevor Schirmer; B.J. Smith won 1 up v Derek Holt; Al Keith won 6 & 4v Glyn Nicholas; Stephen Beard won 3 & 1 v Tony Thorne; Tony Barritt won 4 & 3 v Chris Knapp; La Keith won 1 up v Barry Traynor; Jens Gunnarsson won 1 up v Brian Kelly; Peter Aitcheson won 1 up v Rod Howett.
Friday, 8 August, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Fred Land 41pts
2nd Stephen Beard 37pts
3rd Rod Howett 37pts
4th Barry Traynor 37pts
5th Graham Davis 36pts
Following overnight and early morning rain it was carts only on cart paths at the start and the competition was ruled as ‘lift and place’ on the fairways and to be played from the white tees. In the event the management had foreseen the degree of difficulty the rains had brought and had moved the yellow tees to the whites.
The course is still set up as in preparation for a major tour event with the fairways as narrow as 20 yards and no first cut of rough leading to many a disgruntled golfer who was unable to accept the conditions. Those that did realise the way to play the course, played out of the rough with at the most an eight iron and relied on the approach shot and a good short game to score, and once again showed that golf is not just a power game but needs thought and application to be successful.
Having said that, Fred Land took advantage of his length and power to record a good win ahead of the wily old heads of Stephen Beard, Rod Howett and Barry Traynor, all of whom had to separated by count back. Graham Davis scored a very creditably even par to round off the podium.
Prior to the presentations Lyle Blaw was welcomed back.
Not unusually there were no 2’s in the second division but Barry Traynor and Lyle Blaw shared the first division pool

Jones on song at Emerald

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix Mountain & Lakes (White Tees) - Stableford
The group arrived early and with the course clear the starter put us straight off on this very lovely golf course. Steve Lunt (11) won the day with 34 points followed by Peter Mills (23) and Bob Drumm (11) with 31 and 28 points respectively.
Willy Nachbur, Peter Mills and Neil Duncan had near pin bonuses whilst Bob Drumm sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Thursday, 7 August, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
We turned up to find that the Gobi Desert had moved south to Ban Chang. The Emerald’s greens were covered in sand and there was no water in the showers! Ergo it was a somewhat dirty dozen of us that left the clubhouse following distribution of the bi-weekly dividend.

(Left to right) Jim Fortune, Jeff Wylie, Bill Jones and Bob Drumm.
Bill Jones (32) demonstrated that he harbors no outward medical problems resulting from his total emersion in a water hazard at Navy not so long ago by returning a magnificent 43 points. Carding an enviable low gross score Jeff Wylie (6) was runner up with 38 points. Bob Drumm (11), still playing consistently well, had a very solid back nine to come in third with 37 points. Completing the podium was Jim Fortune (25) - yes he with the 90 kilometers per hour golf buggy - with 35 points.
The average score from the 10 qualifying cards was 33.6 points.
Near pin prizes went to Jeff Wylie, Neil Duncan and Bob Drumm (2) with Peter Mills yet again sinking the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Newcomer James Scofidi claimed the Paradise Bar golf shirt for playing the most golf this day.
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.

MBMG Matchplay League 2008

Outback Golf Bar 6 ½ v Tony’s Tigers 3 ½

Monday, August 4, Burapha
There’s nothing wrong with some good-hearted banter and needle at the start of a match but when it spills over to spoil the game, something needs to be said.
This is the first year of the league and to date it has been a resounding success with most players enjoying the mix with the various venues and entering into the sporting spirit of golf. The subject of handicaps always rules in Pattaya and a great deal of work has been done by a group of guys to improve the validity of handicaps here with a view to everybody being able to play under one system - one day! It’s probably as close as it’s ever been and although the banding system in the MBMG league is far from perfect, it did enable the league to exist and has contributed a considerable amount to bringing all the venues closer together.
The behaviour of a certain individual at the start of the match between the Outback Golf Bar and Tony’s Tigers was unacceptable, is bringing the game into disrepute and could be likened hooliganism.
It takes a great deal of time and effort to put this league and all the individual matches together and requires the cooperation and help from fellow players, not darn right hindrance! Furthermore, to pull your opponent for playing out of turn and call on him to play again is not what the game of golf at amateur level is about. The rules are clear, however many golfers play ready golf in Pattaya and are not used to matchplay; it’s an easy mistake to make and grossly unfair to stand back and let it happen!
Now, that issue has been dealt with; it is always a pleasure to welcome Tony and his team to the Outback Golf Bar and today was no exception. Tony has been a great supporter of the league since it’s inception and his team have produced a series of great results to haul them firmly into second place in the league.
Tony fielded a strong team, his highest handicapper being Brian Jacks off 12, and had the Outback in all kinds a problems with many of their regular lower handicap players being unavailable. Indeed, the biggest anomaly of the banding system came to light when a 19 (or a 20 handicapper) was to receive only three shots!
A win today would have put the Tigers just one point behind the leaders, Caddyshack; but against all the odds, with three first time matchplay players, the Outback Golf Bar denied them that chance with a 6½ to 3½ win.
Individual Results: Briany Christie halved with Thomas Kjellgren; Bernie Segrave won 2 & 1 v Lo Holgersson; Pat Regan won 2 & 1 v Nigel Irvive; Bruce Milner won 5 & 4 v Terry O’Connor; Sugar Ray Hanford won 4 & 2 v Neil McAllister; Don Frances lost 1 down v Dave Richards; Campbell Potts lost 3 & 2 v Brian Jacks; Rosco Langoulant lost 3 & 2 v Chris Holmes; Harvey Samuel won 2 & 1 v Geoff Bowers; Jack Moseley won 2 & 1 v Ron Bridge

Spinley runs amok at Burapha

PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, 4 August, Burapha - Stableford
After a month’s absence, it was a welcome return to the blue tees on American Links & British Wood at the Burapha Golf & Country Club. An incredible total of 72 players came today, 52 played in the regular Outbacker tournament in three divisions and another 20 were involved in the MBMG Matchplay between the Outback Golf Bar & Tony’s Tigers.
Joe Spinley, the overall winner, took the course apart with a fabulous 45 points, some nine shots better than the card. Considering that this course is rated at 73.2 (from the blue tees) and his course handicap (after allowing for the slope of 131) is 26; that is an amazing 14 shots better than the adjusted par & his course handicap. Perhaps the new PSC handicap committee should adjust their thinking; under the current procedure he was cut 2.9 shots to 19.1, maybe he should have been cut by 4.8.
The runner up was Eddie Smith with an outstanding 42 points, which also earned him a new handicap, down to 10.8. Well played you guys!
Div A was won by Gordon Stuart, playing for the first time with the Outback Golf Bar, with 38 points. It was close for second, third and fourth with three players, Ken Little, Rick Evans & Paul Greenaway all on 37 points; and that is the order in which they finished after the count back.
Kevin Moraghan is still playing well off 16 and took Div B with 36 and Paul Mades also got cut and now has a new handicap of 18.4 after a very good 39 points to win Div C.
There were four ‘2’s today coming from Ken Little, Barry Chadbourn, Tony Duthie & Mod Churaiska
Overall
1st Joe Spinley (22) 45pts
2nd Eddie Smith (12) 42pts
Div A (0-14)
1st Stuart Gordon (14) 38pts
2nd Ken Little (11) 37pts
3rd Rick Evans (5) 37pts
4th Paul Greenaway (12) 37pts
Div B (15-19)
1st Kevin Moraghan (16) 36pts
2nd Murray Hart (17) 35pts
3rd William Mooney (18) 33pts
4th Eddie Townsend (17) 33pts
Div C (20 +)
1st Paul Mades (20) 39pts
2nd Tony Duthie (21) 36pts
3rd Peter Gibson (28) 35pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix - Stableford
Another great day round this course playing Lake and Ocean with a lovely temperature and a pleasant breeze.
Ray Dell took the honours with 35 points, snatching victory after Barry missed his putt on the 17th hole. Geoff Moodie came a somewhat distant third.
There was no early bird Phoenix last Tuesday, 12 Aug, since it was the Queens Birthday but it’s back to normal on 19 Aug with an 8am tee time.
No ‘2’s this week, so next week a rollover.
1st Ray Dell (12) 35pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts
3rd Geoff Moodie (26) 26pts
Wednesday, 6 August, Crystal Bay - Stableford
It was the eighth Outbacker Birthday Cup today in celebration of Barry Chadbourn’s fiftieth & some months birthday. In addition to the overall winner & food, Barry also sponsored four near pins which were won by Dave Spendley, Rosco, Ross Towers & Vincent Smyth.
The overall winner was John Little, son of Ken, who came in with a great score of 42 points edging Suzi Lawton into second place on 39. Pat Regan was there again with another solid 38 to take Div A.
It was an Australian whitewash of Div B with Rosco, Murray Hart & Pottsy taking the top three spots and Geoff Doody, the comfortable Div C winner, continued to prove that the series of lessons he is currently undergoing, are now beginning to pay off.
There were five ‘2’s coming from Alan Bishop, Ian Covill, Rosco, Ken Little & Ross Towers.
Thanks for the day Barry & Happy Birthday mate!
Overall
1st John Little (12) 42pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (20) 39pts
Div A (0-13)
1st Pat Regan (9) 38pts
2nd Ian Covill (13) 35pts
3rd Bernie Segrave (7) 34pts
Div B (14-19)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) 38pts
2nd Murray Hart (17) 37pts
3rd Cambell Potts (19) 33pts
Div C (20+)
1st Geoff Doody (20) 36pts
2nd Donna Smith (36) 32pts
3rd Dave Spendley (20) 31pts
Friday, 8 August, Siam Plantation - Stableford
John Emmerson demonstrated how to play this course today, with a very fine 35 points off a 7 handicap. It may well be his enthusiasm for this classy course that puts him in the right frame of mind to play it. A player cannot allow his or her concentration to waiver here, if you get the ball on the wrong side of the green you can walk away with at least a bogey.
Eyad Al Sabai played well for his first time with the Outback Golf Bar, scoring 34, and the ever-consistent Pat Regan ground out another 33 points, which is just about handicap for mere amateurs round here.
Donna Smith followed up her place at Crystal Bay with the top Div B spot on 33 points, and there was a three way count back for the minor places between Ivan Plunkett, Sid Ottaway & John Edwards, all with 30 points.
There were only two ‘2’s today from John Emmerson & Rosco Langoulant
Div A (0-11)
1st John Emmerson (7) 35pts
2nd Eyad Al Sabai (11) 34
3rd Pat Regan (9) 33pts
4th Steve Nowell (9) 30pts
Div B (12+)
1st Donna Smith (36) 33pts
2nd Ivan Plunkett (22) 30pts
3rd Sid Ottaway (24) 30pts
4th John Edwards (15) 30pts
Friday, 8 August, The Emerald - Stableford
The third visit to this jewel of a course in two weeks provided just eleven Outbackers with a very pleasurable round of golf. It was also a resumption of the Doody/Chadbourn road show, with Kathy firing a handicap cutting 42 points for the top place (welcome to h’cap 18 Kathy), ‘new swing’ Geoffrey beating OAP Barry on count back, both with 33, and Peter Gibson continued his recent good form with fourth place today.
There was one ‘2’ from none other than Kathy Doody.
1st Kathy Doody (20) 42pts
2nd Geoff Doody (20) 33pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (22) 33pts
4th Peter Gibson (28) 31pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. Our Bus Trip this month is to Royal Lakeside on Weds 27 Aug. More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

Whoa Nelly, what an opening
Every four years people throughout the world make the vow that, “No, I’ll probably watch very little of the Olympics.” Then they watch the opening and are hooked like some old geezer at hearing the words, “I like you…u like me?” Last Friday’s opening and lighting of the Olympic cauldron was to understate it, spectacular, stupendous and not to ignore supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. If you didn’t see it, shame on you.
The Thailand team was led by flagbearer bantam boxer Worapoj Petchkoom who will see his first ring action this Friday against Jahyn Vitterio Parrenello of Italy. Also due for action on the same day are Thailand’s Pitchai Saypta and Sailom Adi. Thailand’s best hope for a medal is Manus Boonjumnong who had his round of 16 bout on Thursday.
A couple of flag bearers of note were Alexis Arguello the great boxer from Nicarrgua and Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines. Arguello is remembered for his epic battles with Arron Pryon that have etched themselves into ring lore. He had a professional career record of 82-8. Most of those bouts aren’t remembered but the Pryor bouts are.
Olympic scoring
still ugly
As mentioned last week the Olympic scoring system has been tweeked in an attempt to answer critisism of “lousy judging,” not to mention corruption and bout fixing. A lot of this came about as a result of Roy Jones jr. being robbed before the entire world.
The change has been called computer scoring, but it isn’t really. Under the new system 3 of the 5 judges must hit an eletronic pad within one second of a punch for a boxer to score a point. The scoring is “open” so everyone knows the score of the bout at all times.
In the view of Teddy Atlas, “it seems to me like an attempt was made to remove the fingerprints from a bank robbery. They call it computer scoring but the only thing electronic is the cord leading to the scoring pad. It didn’t work.”
Bad judging comes from bad judges. The early rounds of Oympic boxing have seen low scoring in bouts where even Ray Charles could see that punches were landed. Plus a knockdown recieves no more scoring than a “pitty-pat, marshmellow pillow ballet dancer’s slap.” The rounds are 2 minutes with the boxers going 4 rounds.
Yanks lose medal favorite before games
The USA’s hopes for a gold in the bantamweight division went ‘out the window’ when Gary Russell jr. collapsed while trying to make the weight in the days leading up to the games.
“The two-time national champion was found unconscious and severely dehydrated early Friday morning,” U.S. coach Dan Campbell said. Russell’s roommate, light-flyweight Luis Yanez, alerted the American coaches shortly after Russell returned from a run in a final effort to reach his 119-pound weight limit.
By missing the pre-games weigh-in he’s out. Russell’s family had raised $10,000 so they could attend the games, which is now down the drain. Russell has five brothers all named Gary. When everyone in a family has the same first name that’s called the George Foreman syndrome.
So Russell’s long-time dream of being an Olympian died because of one pound. “In retrospect would you do anything different?” asked Jim Grey. “No not really,” answered Russell. Next question should have been, “Are you a candidate for MENSA?”
Hatton lost focus?
With the opening of the Olympic last week TSR missed some results from the “play for pay guys.” Jeeves has been busy putting together a list of all results but first there are signs that a particular boxer is losing his focus, which translates to getting ready to say “Adios.”
That may be the case with Ricky Hatton. First he rejects his biggest payday, and maybe one of the biggest in boxing history, by passing up a match against Oscar De La Hoya in order to face Paulie Malignaggi on November 22 in Las Vegas. Then there is the replacement of long time trainer Billy Graham by “TBA”. The Hatton Team announced that Graham and Hatton had parted ways amicably. Not so according to what Graham told the Manchester Evening News.
“I was sacked,” stated Graham bluntly, “but if Ricky wants to finish with me that’s entirely up to him. As a result I have decided it is a good time to retire. I’m not going to get into a slagging match with Ricky because we’ve been through too much together. And I wish him all the best for his next fight.”
The possibilities have increased that Oscar De La Hoya’s last fight (December 6) will be against Manny Pacquiao. The word is that most of the conditions have been agreed upon with the only stumbling block now money. Now there’s a surprise!
Clottey destroys Judah
Joshua Clottey (35-2) won the IBF welter title when referee Robert Byrd incorrectly stopped their title bout, on the advice of the ring doctor, due to an accidental head butt. In this case the “accidental” head butt was actually a hard left hand, which opened a cut on Judah’s eyelid in round 9. By the rules the bout went to the scorecards with Clottey getting a majority decision (86-85 twice and 87-84). TSR had it 86-84 for the winner.
As is usual with Team Judah, father and son following the bout cried crocodile tears about being robbed which was duly reported by the press. The fact is that yet again Judah came up short and lost the fight.
Darchinyan wins big
The word was out in boxing circles that maybe IBF super-flyweight champ Dimitri Kirilov (29-4-1) wasn’t actually that good. Inside boxing circles it was felt that many champions fought inferior competition in building records and gaining belts. The word was right.
Kirilov was this supposed “superman”, never having been stopped. If he was then Vic Darchinyan (31-1-1) was kryptonite as he delivered punches from the Darchinyan buffet that Kiriloc ate until he was KO’d at 1:05 of round 5. As is always the case with Darchinyan his punches come from all angles and with great power at 115lbs.
“I would like to have a rematch with Nonito Donaire,” said Darchinyan afterwards. For the Armenian-born Australian that would not be a good idea as Donaire can match his power plus one or two. Donaire was supposed to defend against Moruti Mthalane on October 11 in Macau. That card has now been moved to December 13 - without Donaire. Instead he’s now penciled in to defend on the proposed Margarito-Clottey, November 1 card in Las Vegas.
The Bell tolls … the final 10 count
The boxing world mourns the loss of two great boxers from “back in the day.” Left-hander Kenny Lane has died at age 76 of a heart attack. Lane had a record of 82-16 with most of his losses coming against great fighters. Lane’s three fights with Carlos Ortiz were classic contests. He would get a win over 10 rounds but lose twice when a world title was on the line.
He also beat some darn good boxers in Ralph Dupas, Virgil “Honey Bear” Akins and Carlos Hernandez who were all world champions. He retired but then 18 years later came back for 4 bouts going 3-1. When he lost a split decision to the Dave Guerra (6-7) he retired for good. I saw Lane in person when he won a unanimous decision over hometown favorite Luis Molina in San Jose California in 1962.
Baby Vasquez (102-40-2) was one of the most well known Mexican fighters for 24 years. From 1950 to 1974 he was a ranked welterweight fighting the likes of Ralph Dupas, Paolo Rosi and Teddy “Red Top” Davis. He died last week in a car accident in his native Mexico.
All but 7 of his 144 bouts were in Mexico. One of those was against Luis Molina in San Jose California in January of 1962. Vasquez would loose on points in a very close bout. The Square Ring had it scored for Molina also as they were in the upper deck of the sweltering Civic Auditorium.
Shirley U jest
As two-time WBA heavyweight champ John Ruiz (43-7-1) prepares for his August 30 title match against Nikolay Valuev (48-1), he has shed “The Quietman” tag by speaking to the press. Big mistake. Too many fail to understand that more often than not people who are quiet are not “thoughtful or deep,” they simply have nothing of interest to say and don’t say it very well.
After “whining” that his last four fights haven’t been on TV Ruiz said, “It’s sad to say but right after my last fight against McCline, a reporter asked me about me going back to holding my opponent. It’s easy for them to say that because they think that’s my style. Reporters are just used to it, I guess, but I’m challenging them to a bet. It can be by the round, or the entire fight; so much money per hold (differential), or a flat rate. If I hold more, I’ll make a donation to the charity of the reporter’s choice; if Valuev holds more, the reporter has to make a donation to my charity. They can have as many reporters as they want betting for whatever amount they choose. I’m giving them a chance to put their money where their mouths are. Then, finally, they will realize that I don’t fight like I used to; no more clutching and grabbing for me.”
‘Ok Jeeves, clean out the bank account we’ve just hit the lottery. My charity? Me.’
Jesters Care For Kids
Sir Frog and his business partner Nuch want to get a jump-start on this year’s event. They are holding a Jesters Care of Kids Charity Lunch Brunch on Saturday, August 23 at Patrick’s Belgian Restaurant just off Soi Diana. For only 500 Baht they will provide a Belgian buffet both warm and cold: “Yum, yum good for the tum.” For advanced reservations call Patrick at 081 687-2410. Jeeves says, “Be there or be square.”
Jeeves Time
‘Your Lordship, I’ve done the research that you asked for in regard to future house guests at Mansion Casa’ de Reed. I’m told that it would not be possible to install a coin operation on your washer and dryer. I’ve also discovered that it would be impossible to install magic finders on the two cots in the garage. Therefore I would suggest that maybe the following price list might apply for anyone using the washer/dryer: underwear 5 baht, Hash underwear 20 baht, T-shirt 5 baht, socks 2 baht each, short pants 5 baht, long pants 10 baht.’
‘Jeeves, does that same rate apply to lady visitors?’
‘No your Lordship, in the unlikely event that you should have a female visitor all their laundry will be charged 1 baht per item except for “unmentionables” for which there will be no charge. I will include washing, drying and folding.’
‘Fine job Jeeves, you may now serve the magic brain fluid, light up a fire stick, slip in a CD and let’s celebrate putting together another great column.’

Ramsay rattles up first win

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Sunday, 3 August, saw the Pattaya Golf Society return to Eastern Star to play its usual Sunday stableford event, for many the golfing highlight of the week with the group from the OK Corral, with its customary large single flight.
Let it be said now that Eastern Star is not the “doddle” it used to be, with the temporary greens adding a new challenge with their length, placement and slopes. Interestingly one has to go back quite a while to find winning scores well under-par.
It was no different on this occasion with a stiff breeze blowing all day as Chris Voller, Dave Ashman and Peter Masters tied for second with 33 points each, leaving Ronnie Ramsay at the top of the leaderboard on 35 points, giving him the honour of his first individual win with the group. True to his Scottish roots his generosity prompted him to ring the bell in celebration, back at the OK.
There were no birdie 2’s, leaving a large rollover for the following weekend.
John Rehm has been very much the man in form recently. Only the previous week he played two rounds in a total of thirteen under par and the subsequent five shot cut in handicap put him under extreme pressure to come up with the goods again. The result was foregone as he left six balls in the water and one up a coconut tree to give him the Booby Bevy to start his final week’s competitions with the PGS. Next weekend he’ll be back at work in Switzerland whilst we other lucky souls return to take on Eastern Star again.
‘Matchplay Blues’ blown away
The Emerald was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society’s fourth International Pattaya Matchplay League match of the season on Tuesday, 5 August, when the opponents were Jomtien Golf.
Successive defeats by the narrowest of margins at the hands of Lewiinski’s had left the OK Corral team bent on revenge and the golfers from Jomtien were to feel the sting on the empty course in Ban Chang.
At the top of the order Dave Stockman and home captain David Thomas took their ties against Keith Hector and Jim Lane, with Chris Voller adding a third scalp, beating Burnie Sinclair 4 & 2 in the third tie.
Jomtien’s Bryan Rought took Tony Thorne to the final putt before losing his tie and thus the PGS lay “dormie 4” at the halfway stage. Jitters took over as Peter Duncan found giving so many shots away to his opponent, Jomtien captain Glyn Evans, cost him the tie 5 & 3 but the nerves were calmed in the next tie as Ken Deringer came home 3 & 1 against Peter Grant.
In the final two ties Carl Lovatt lost to Jomtien’s Jim Johnson 5 & 4, leaving John Rehm to tie things up by defeating Robert Green 3 & 1 in the final tie. Thus the Society won its first victory by 6 ties to 2.
In the associated stableford event, cut at nineteen and under, victory in the second flight was shared appropriately by the two organisers Len Jones and Glyn Evans with 35 points, Markku Tynell taking third with 31, and in the top flight Dave Stockman took the win with the best round of the day, 36 points, from Tony Thorne and Keith Hector on 34.
Tony also took the 2’s pot for the only birdie two of the day on the fifth hole. He duly celebrated by ringing the OK’s bell later at a relieved presentation which had seen the PGS take its maiden matchplay win.
Triple Crown at Green Valley
Green Valley was the host for the Pattaya Golf Society on Thursday, 7 August as the group played a stableford competition on the well-prepared course. Fairways are lush and the greens are acceptably slick. Playing off the forward white tees the course was not as testing as it usually is but it still made for a fine competition.
Of those with hopes of a high finish “Kermit” of Ban Chang must have been disappointed that his 37 points did not rate a mention as David Thomas, Ken Deringer and Chris Voller all shared the win on 38 points, David registering the day’s best gross figures of 75, despite three-putting the last hole. It should have been a gross level par round and the disappointment was etched on his face as he trudged off the last green. It was golf at its best nevertheless.
There were no birdie 2’s on the fast greens but Peter Masters, playing with the triumphant trio, let the group down badly, coming up with only 28 points and thus he was rewarded with the Booby Bevy. In his defence it was amazingly the first time he had played the course after golfing with the group for more than a year. It was also an enjoyable experience because the course was vitually empty, but that will be a distant memory as the annual ‘Asian invasion’ begins in a month or so.

O’Brien stars at Burapha

Ian’s tiles sparkle

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, 3 August, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Ian Grout (11) 40pts
2nd Bob Newell (6) 40pts
3rd Jeremy Masse (12) 40pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (15) 40pts
2nd Dale Shier (13) 37pts
3rd Blackie Blackburn (16) 36pts
Near Pins: #2 Dale Shier; #9Ian Halfpenny: #12 Bill Broschart; #16 Ian Grout
2’s: Kris K, Bob Newell and Jez Lees.
Hidden Six: 1st Kathy Doody, 2nd Dale Shier
Ian the tile Grout, Bob “the captain” Newell, Jeremy “ear muffs” Masse and Colin “the GM” Davis were co men of the match with 40pts apiece. Colin’s B Flight winning score was three clear of Dale Shier, and an additional one ahead of Blackie Blackwell
A Flight was a very tight affair with the top three places all carding 40 points. Third place, after completely ignoring the Wireless, went to Jeremy Masse, second place went to the relief secretary, and Captain Bob Newell, but winning the flight was Ian “the Tile” Grout with the best back nine.
Seemed like a good day for the admin plus Rigsby and Miss Jones. Only six golfers failed to score less than 30 points, out of the thirty-eight competitors.
Tuesday, 5 August, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Don Lehmer (12) 36pts
2nd Barry Winton (4) 35pts
3rd Ian Grout (11) 35pts
B Flight
1st Peter Ring (20) 38 pts
2nd Merle Humphreys (19) 38 pts
3rd Bob Lindburg (16) 35 pts
Thirty-nine golfers and Jez Lees traveled to play the beautiful Laem Chabang.
A Flight was won by Don Lehmer carding a very nice even par round 36pts to beat the new “IPGC champion” Barry Winton. Barry took second place after a count back over Ian “the tiler” Grout, both with 35pts.
B Flight winner was the man from Co Dublin, Peter Ring on a count back over Merle Humphreys, both with 38 excellent points. Third place was taken by Bob “the guru” of Green Valley Lindburg on 35 points.
Meanwhile ‘Big’ Phil Groves had the only ‘2’ of the day, very nice.
Wednesday, 6 August, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Gabriel Enright (12) 44pts
2nd Merle Humphreys (19) 40pts
A small group made the trip to the immaculate Crystal Bay. Winning the day and playing off his old handicap with an amazing 44 points was Gabriel Enright. Second place was filled by Merle Humphreys with a great 40 points and the unlucky Chaten Patel had 39 points for nothing
Tony Hill and Merle Humphreys both had a ‘2’. Amazing, as the prices come down, the scores go up. Back at Lewiinski’s after the game there was an eerie silence. Wireless has returned to Norway, to take on the Norwegian government, and not at golf.
Friday, 8 August, The Emerald - Stableford
1st Stuart Rocchi (16) 40pts
2nd Don Lehmer (12) 40pts
3rd Peter Ring (20) 40pts
The Emerald welcomed a fair sized group of Lewiinski’s golfers to this Desmond Muirhead & Nick Faldo designed course where four contestants carded 40 points. This in its self is a feat for one player, but four players? The count back revealed that Stuart Rocchi won the match on C/B over Don Lehmer. In third spot was the ever-popular Irishman Peter Ring. Also with forty points and winning nothing but applause was Bill Broshart, bad luck Bill
There were two 2’s, from Stuart Rocchi and Don Lehmer.
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.

Kronborg still top but big shake up for the other front runners

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Aht, Tue, La & Nok.

Café Kronborg won three points from VFW Post 9876 and remains in first place. Montana moved into second place after taking all four points from Bavaria. Jack Tar is now in third place after taking four points in their match against Brother D and SaBai SaBai Friday moved up to fourth as they took all four points from Canada. Team Montgomery won all four points from Sala Thai Restaurant and Café Ole took four from House of the Golden Coin.
Best series on the day were bowled by: Nok 201, 179, 204 – 584, La 201, 177, 190 – 568, Dang 192, 188,174 -554, Tue 529, Mai 526, Sue 521, Teuvo 517 and Somrak 516.

Evans’ approach leaves partners dumbstruck

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, 4 August, Green Valley – Stableford
Our fortnightly visit here, before the high season kicks in, and while we can still get a reasonable booking-in time we are all going to make the most of it. There were 26 players out today.
With rollovers from Greenwood and Eastern Star in the 2’s in division 1, there were an amazing three today from Ben Findon on the 9th, and Mikael Andersson and Keith Hector on the 12th. In division 2 an incredible 8-iron shot from 120 yards rolled in on the sixth hole to earn the organiser a share of the kitty with William Chang, who also birdied the 12th hole.
Nearest the pins went to Mikael Andersson, Ben Findon, Keith Hector and Bill Hewitt (Div. 1) and William Chang, Jack Hinchey, Joe Kubon and Roger Ribbins (Div. 2).
In the stableford competition the field was cut at 19 and above and Gordon Everingham took the second division honours with 38 points. Roger Ribbins and Glyn Evans both contested second place with 36 points, but Roger snatched it on count back.
In the first division Keith Hector pipped arch-rival Bill Hewitt on count back after they both finish with 37 points, Ben Findon came third with 36 points.  
Wednesday, 6 August, The Emerald - Matchplay
(see OK Corral report)
Friday, 8 August, Eastern Star – Stableford
When leaving Siam Cats and travelling along Beach Road with the wind howling and the sea looking in a ferocious condition, there was speculation that wouldn’t be able to play today, but as we approached the course the outlook looked more favourable than in Jomtien. With a few spots of rain on the first tee, these soon disappeared and a glorious day ensued.
There was another ‘2’ for the organiser on the 13th as his approach shot disappeared into the hole leaving a few bewildered faces on the green. Bryan Rought also birdied the 17th (the temporary green) to share in the prize pool. There were no winners in division 1 so a rollover to Crystal Bay on Monday.
Miss Nit won the division 2 stableford with 32 points after beating Les Winch on count back, while Glyn Evans took division 1 honours with 35 points with Bryan Rought second on 31 points.
Our fun game of the month, a two-person Canadian Scramble has now been arranged for Treasure Hills on Wednesday, 27 August. Looking ahead and I think for the first time there may be a 2-person rainbow multiplier at Emerald on the 24 September. We will keep you informed.
Note: Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Siam Cats, Soi 5 Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 8.30 for a 10am tee off time. Please sign up in the bar or call Glyn on 086 837 5464.

The League of Legends - Round 6

by Howie ‘The Old Dart Coach’ Reed
In the Chinese culture the number 888 is lucky. But there were was nary a Chinese person playing darts in round 6 of the League of Legends at The Spa last Friday night. That would be August 8, 2008 or 888. That aside, for at least 2 players it was their lucky day.

Bobby George dances on the stage after making a dramatic comeback against Keith Deller. (Photo/Betfred.com)
The odds are good that Cliff Lazarenko’s 7-3 win and Bobby George’s come from behind draw had the two legends levitating over the crowd, just as Li Ning did hours before in China as he lit the Olympic cauldron. Meanwhile neither Dave Whitcombe nor Peter Evison can be pleased with their 6-6 draw. That’s true especially for Evison as he again blew a big lead. Bob Anderson will be happy that he got another win (7-2) which puts him at the top of the table heading into the final week of league play.
Bob Anderson 7 - Eric Bristow 2
As has been the case throughout this Legends play, the crowd was loudly lubricated and stoutly behind the ‘Crafty Cockney’. That support didn’t transfer to his doubles though as Bristow’s loss eliminated him from the semi finals.
Eric had his chances as Anderson wasn’t on his best form, falling behind 1- 0. At 1 all Bristow missed a bull finish that allowed Anderson three at 42 which he collected. From leading 2-1 Anderson staggered to a 5-1 advantage even though both players had the ‘wobblies’ in the double zone. Bristow took leg 7, but 8 and 9 went to Anderson as he turned out the lights on Bristow.
‘I’m very proud to have qualified first,’ said Anderson later.
Dave Whitcombe 6 – Peter Evison 6
Just as he did in week 1, Peter Evison had a big lead only to blow it and hang on for a draw. From week one it was written that ‘a 6-6 draw is “like kissing your sister.” Pre-tournament favorite Bob Anderson would probably have kissed anyone’s sister as he had to battle back from 4-1 and 5-2 down to earn a draw against the “Fen Tiger” Evison.’
Fast forward to week 6, this time it’s Dave Whitcombe who was down to Evison but came back for a draw with nary a sister in sight. At 4-1 down Whitcombe took the next 4 legs and a 5-4 lead, which tuned into 5-5 when Evison hit a “Beer League” double 1. When Whitcombe failed to check in the 11th leg Evison used double 8 to get within a leg of the win. As happened in week one Evison had a chance in the final leg but Whitcombe’s double 5 produced the 6-6 draw.
What did Whitcombe think of his play? ‘Terrible, right from the word go. I’ve been practicing all the time and done everything right only to get it wrong on the stage. Now I’m stuck because I don’t know what’s going on. I played well to win my opening three games but played badly in the last two weeks. I was lucky to get a draw against Peter. I’ve no idea what’s going on with my darts at the moment.’
Evison? ‘I should have won, without a doubt. Dave was struggling and I was cruising at 4-1 but I don’t know what happened. I think it’s the pressure of trying to qualify.’
Every pub darter can empathize with Evison as there are times when they’ve found out that it’s hard to take a deep breath when you’re choking.
Bobby George 6 - Keith Deller 6
Few dart players in history have been as popular as Bobby George. By the same token few have been as underrated as a player. If you underestimate Bobby George you’ll pay the price - a fact of life that Keith Deller learned the hard way.
George was down 6-3 and could have chucked it in but he didn’t. With the backing of a howling crowd “Bobby Dazzler” danced his way back for a 6-6 draw that was as big as any win.
‘When I got to 6-6 I thought there was another leg to go,’ said George. There should be but Brits are big on this tie being a win “light” deal. George has always been refreshing for his honesty. ‘I haven’t played very well all the way through to be honest,’ he said. ‘It’s been real Mickey Mouse darts. But that’s the way it goes I suppose. The other guys have just been better than me and it’s annoying.’
The draw for Deller means he’s got a “ win and you’re in” scenario for this week.
Cliff Lazeranko 7 - John Lowe 3
Big Cliff Lazarenko did the business on pal John Lowe to keep alive his hopes of making the final four. This was a match that was about winning. With the win there are a number of combinations that will advance Lazarenko into the final nights play.
Lazarenko has come a long way since his losing match to Bob Anderson where he was clearly aggravated by the unruly crowd. He put that behind him, moved ahead and now sits in sole position of third place.
‘There’s four spots available in the semi-finals and five of us going for them in the last week, and I think that means the League of Legends is working so well,’ said ‘Big’ Cliff. ‘I have a reputation for never lying down and I’m delighted with this win. I struggled to get over the line but let’s bring Stoke on.’
Final League Round
It all comes down to the play this Friday night at King’s Hall in Stoke. The only match that has no significance is Eric Bristow against John Lowe. Both are out of the tournament and have been a disappointment for their worldwide fans. They’ve played thousands of times so they’ll probably put on a show as the fans get ready for the real competition.
Bob Anderson (10pts) v Bobby George (3pts)
If Bob Anderson again has “double trouble” King Bobby could steal a win here. While Anderson has qualified, a loss could move him out of the number #1 seed spot. For Bobby George it’s all about pride as he’s been eliminated from the final night’s play. Anderson gets the edge here.
Cliff Lazarenko (8pts) v Peter Evison (8pts)
Lazarenko has a “slim” lead for the third spot using various tie breakers: the tie breakers here being slightly less complicated than Chinese arithmetic.
Evison has got to improve not only his double play but also his scoring or Lazarenko will take him to the woodshed. Evison should be in the semis already but his two blown wins have set the stage for this match. Here a win by either player and they’re in the round of 4. A tie, or a loss coupled with a Deller loss and they’re in. Old Chinese dart saying, “Don’t worry about what may happen, take care of own business.”
Both players have to go all out. Lazarenko going for his third win in a row. The ‘Old Darts Coach’ thinks Cliff wants it more. Maybe 7-5 for the Big Guy
Dave Whitcombe (8pts) v Keith Deller (7pts)
Darts is a simple game - it’s the players that make it complicated. For Keith Deller it’s very simple: win and maybe advance to the semis and finals at the Circus Tavern, lose and stay at home.
By his own admission Whitcombe hasn’t been playing well the last couple of weeks. A loss by Whitcombe and the early leader of the league could be out of the semis as there are 4 players going for 3 spots. Whitcombe’s 23 scoring average last week was his lowest of the tournament. Not a good sign. He’d better “strap it on” or Keith Deller will lay a whipping on him. Look for Whitcombe to recapture the magic of early league play.