Mam Morel at the double

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, 8 Sept., Phoenix – Stableford
Eight Jomtien golfers took on the best from the Haven in a matchplay event on Monday (please refer to the Haven report for the full results) while the remaining 19 took part in a stableford competition.
There were many remarks made regarding the condition of the greens, but at this time of the year, with the rainfall at it’s worst it must be difficult to maintain a perfect cut.
There was no 2’s competition today as it would have been unfair to the matchplay team, but William Chang was not amused after his ‘2’ on the 7th hole on the Ocean course. He made up for it though in the B Flight stableford competition, finishing second with 37 points, Rick Newman was third with 35, but the outright winner was Mam Morel with 43 points to win by six.
In the premier flight, Ben Findon’s back nine count back of 19 points beats Jean Morel and Bryan Rought after they all finished with 33 points in the fight for third place, Kevin Walsh came in second one point ahead, and Neville Scurrell was a clear winner with 38 points.
Wednesday, 10 Sept., Mountain Shadow – Stableford
Following numerous discussions and debates over the past few months as to which route we should use for Mountain Shadow, we put them all to the test today with various vehicles. The outcome was that using the #7 and taking the second exit after Khao Kheow it was 15km longer than the #3, but 5 minutes quicker than the lads using the Sukhumvit route.
We had another turnout of 19 players today and the double rollover in B Flight in the 2’s became three and moved on to Eastern Star on Friday. Brian Blackford’s birdie on the 15th won him the A Flight prize.
After 43 points on Monday and with an ever-improving game, Mam Morel’s 37 points was enough to win the A Flight, with Paddy Wilson taking second on 35 and Kevin Walsh third with 29.
Tony Duthie’s 31 points got him third place in the B Flight, with Alan Bissell beating Jack Hinchey on a back 9 count back of 21/18 to claim the victory after both came in with 32 points each.
Friday, 12 Sept., Eastern Star – Stableford
It was raining heavily early morning and we had very dark skies in the distance as we headed towards the course. The thoughts were that we would not be playing but as we approached the gates the clouds diminished and there was plenty of blue sky appearing.
We had an even cut in the stableford today with 11 players in A Flight and 12 in the B Flight.
After 5 weeks in the Angolan jungle, Russell Benson returned for his first game today and won the B Flight with 38 points. Jimmy Johnson was in second with 34 and Miss Oam placed third on 31 points. Her other half finished second in the A Flight with 35 points, two better than third placed Bryan ‘Gonzales’ Rought, but just back from Down Under and winning today was Andy Shelley with 36 points. He was not a pretty sight the next day after the evening celebrations.
Tom Sathrum’s birdie on the 6th hole was the sole ‘2’ of the day.

Chirpy Stuart Gordon on top of the tree again

PSC Phoenix Golf Tuesday Group (members and guests)

Mike Gerrard
A full compliment today, set off to play the Mountain and Ocean course, a sure sign that times are getting a little busier here in fun city. The Lakes has been closed for a while to prepare it for the high season onslaught.

Tuesday winners, Stuart Gordon and David Czernie celebrate with the ladies at Toy’s Music Bar.

Although the course was very wet due to consistent heavy storms over the last few days, we were blessed again with fine weather, albeit a little humid. But as the day wore on the breeze picked up a little and the humidity went down.
Surprisingly, carts were still allowed, but I think Phoenix management should be a little careful about this problem when we have had so much rain. There were parts of the course that had been damaged quite severely due to thoughtless and uncaring cart drivers.
This, taken into account meant that we were all very happy to get back to Toy’s Music Bar in Soi Chaiyapreuk to quench the thirst with the amber nectar, have good conversation (we try to get as many players as we can to tell a joke) listen to great 50’s and 60’s music and ogle the pretty girls who serve us.
As is our policy on stableford days, we pay for the first happy hour drink from the entrance fee money and then divide the balance to reward the best golfers of the day (not a lot left for them). Note: Pot Hunters are usually very disappointed in our group.
The winner and runner-up today, as depicted in the photo, were the ever jovial Stuart Gordon in first place with a respectable 37 points, and in second place with 35 points the lovable David Czernie (his name goes on a lot longer but I havn’t got the paper to write it all down).
I have to say that we were all very pleased for David, he only started playing golf some 18 months to 2 years ago and struggled for a long time. However, he has been very patient and worked hard to achieve his position as a nearly, proper golfer. I say nearly because his official handicap is 34, but in our group we only allow a maximum of 28 to be used. David’s score would have equated to 41 points off his official handicap (and, yes it has been entered to the PSC).
All that was left was the lucky draw and, after not having the best score of his life, it was fitting that Roger Ison received his entrance money back.
There was no Friday golf this week, due to the PSC monthly tournament at Laem Chabang. There will also be no Friday golf on September 19 due to a course closure for a large tournament. Our next monthly trophy stroke play game will be on Tuesday 7th October.
For further info and registration call me, Mike Gerrard on 087 091 7565.

The Beautiful Game?: by Riz Taylor

Liverpool hit top gear

Congratulations come first this week for a club desperate for seemingly impossible victory.  No this isn’t about Liverpool’s rare win over Manchester United, we’ll come to that in a moment, but a word for Derby County, who recorded their first league victory in over a year as they overcame Sheffield United.
“Of course it’s a massive weight off my shoulders, and the shoulders of everybody at the club, but listen to them out there; you’d think we’d won promotion,” said manager Jewell.”  It’s them I’m pleased for.  Hopefully now we can go on and give them something to really be proud of.”  Such as another win, perhaps.
Anyway onto Liverpool, who did indeed emerge victorious over their friends from Manchester.  It wasn’t the prettiest game in living memory, but that won’t bother anybody on Merseyside as they look down on United as the European Champions struggle in mid-table.
It doesn’t get much easier for United this weekend either, as this time around it’s Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.  If Liverpool against United was the battle of the ‘old money’, Chelsea’s visit to Manchester City was certainly a squabble over the new.  The Blues looked hugely impressive and you’d have to pick them as hot favourites for this Sunday’s showdown, even without midfielder Michael Essien who has been ruled out for six months with a knee injury.
Determined not to be outdone by events in the North West, Newcastle United were eager to keep themselves on the back pages.  After another unsuccessful attempt to lure Kevin Keegan back into the fold, owner Mike Ashley has put the club up for sale after being abused by the Geordie faithful before and during the side’s defeat at the hands of Hull City.
“I am not stupid and have listened to the fans,” Ashley said in a lengthy statement.  “I have really loved taking my kids to the games, being next to them and all the fans.
“But I am now a dad who can’t take his kids to a football game on a Saturday because I am advised that we would be assaulted.  Therefore, I am no longer prepared to subsidise Newcastle United.
“I am putting the club up for sale.  I hope that the fans get what they want and that the next owner is someone who can lavish the amount of money on the club that the fans want.”
In a passionate statement, Ashley defended his spending record at the club.  “I paid 134 million pounds out of my own pocket for the club.  I then poured another 110 million into the club not to pay off the debt, but just to reduce it.
“Unless I had come into the club then it might not have survived.  It could have shared the fate of other clubs who have borrowed too heavily against their future.  Before I had spent a penny on wages or buying players Newcastle United had cost me more than a quarter of a billion pounds.”
Any takers?
Paper Talk
On 8 Sept., The Sun: ‘Seeing as Capello is a man with an in-built default mechanism when it comes to taking even the slightest gamble, we have to presume he will click into safety-first mode and play old Golden Knackers from the start.  Zagreb is another car crash in the making... Confident Croatia are likely to engender in England all the old communication breakdowns, formulaic high punts into the box, unforced errors and general mass hysteria that grips our glory boys when the going gets tough.’
Two days later, 10 Sept., The Sun: ‘WE ARE FAB!  Capello is leading the country out of the dark ages...
Best gaffer: Berti Vogts, Azerbaijan.  ‘You journalists sit there, drinking, and expect us to win games 6-0.  Incredible.  We cannot land on the moon overnight - you are clueless idiot journalists.  You want me to book the hotel in South Africa now!  Christ.  That’s it from me.  Over and out.’
Earlier on 4 Sept., Paul Parry, Wales: ‘John Toshack has given me my chance and I want to repay him.  I missed a long time last season when I had some personal problems, but he kept faith with me, never abandoned me.  Now I’ll do my best for Wales.  I just hope for a chance to play against Azerbaijan - but I won’t know for sure until later in the week, and I have no intention of counting my chickens.’
Just three days later, 7 Sept., left out of starting line-up.  Parry quits international football.
A grave situation
Five hundred burial spaces are now available at the new official Hamburger SV fans cemetery, next to HSV’s stadium.  Club branded coffins cost 2,350 Euros, urns 370 - with total burial costs for a couple at 10,556 Euros, including a topping of ‘genuine grass’ taken from the pitch.
“True passion for HSV does not end at the final whistle,” says the club.  HSV board member Christian Reichert told German press: ‘It is an excellent departure.  We hope for the first funeral this week.’
Loose women
Brazilian press say the national squad smuggled ‘loose women’ into the team hotel before their World Cup qualifier against Chile.  Guests on the sixth floor of the Sheraton Hotel in Santiago said they heard ‘foul noise all night’ from the squad’s rooms - one guest telling Radio Bío Bío de Chile that ‘the women were many and untroubled by clothing’.
Coach Dunga says the press should back off.  ‘They’re hurtful.  They molest us in the airport, they molest us in the hotel, everywhere we go is like a war.  We do nothing to deserve this pain.’

Low handicappers come to the fore at Pattana

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, 8 Sept., Green Valley - Stableford
With the booking at Green Valley confirmed well in advance there was no problem with The Bunker Boy’s teeing off on time today. There was one small snag though, the weather. After completing just over half of the round the heaven’s opened and there were small streams running down the fairways whilst the greens resembled mini lakes, so the competition had to be abandoned.
Reg Smart was particularly disappointed as he had five pars on the front nine for the first time in his life, anyway, more time available to play in Ban Chang!
Wednesday, 10 Sept., Pattana - Stableford
1st Tony Robbins (12) 36pts
2nd JJ Harney (11) 35pts
3rd John McDonald (6) 30pts
The low handicappers came into their own on this testing course which saw Tony Robbins take the honours after beating JJ Harney by just the one point whilst John McDonald took third place with a pretty decent 30 points, playing off a handicap of 6.
Tony made it a very profitable day by winning two of the near pin prizes, JJ won one as well and the last one went to William Macey.
Friday, 12 Sept., Laem Chabang
The regular golfers from The Bunker participated in the Pattaya Sports Club monthly competition for a change, taking advantage of playing one of the better courses in the area for a bargain 1,700 Baht.
Duncan Lee won a trophy for finishing third in the C Flight and Russell Warner holed a birdie 2 at the 8th on the B course to win a prize. Two other players got in on the act by winning the longest putt in their respective flights; William Macey in the A Flight and David Johnson in the D Flight who putted out from all of eighteen inches we hear, both on the 9th hole on the B course. All in all another peculiar week here in golfer’s paradise.

Ellison shoots best of the day at soggy Laem Chabang

PSC 82nd Members Monthly Golf Tournament

Derek Brook
Friday, 12 Sept., Laem Chabang
The times, they are a changing. That is the new situation at PSC as the new Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely, starts to get to grips with this most difficult of all positions in Pattaya. There is no way that a Golf Chairman can satisfy all the people here, but at present Perry is making a valiant effort to do so.

The A & B Flight winners with the Golf Chairman, Perry McNeely (center).
One of the new initiatives is to try and select the best venues, and on this day we certainly did, also next month will be at Siam Plantation but on a Wednesday (not Friday). By judicious selection, and negotiation, we are able to play at Sports Day rates, on the days we want to play.
One other innovation is that after the play is complete we bring back the golfers to a venue in Pattaya, where usually free food and well-priced drinks are available. On this day it was Jamesons and next month it is planned to be Shenanigans. Most players usually have a nibble at the courses, but coming back to Pattaya means they can also have a few cold one’s.

The C & D Flight winners receive their trophies.
So to the day and it has been a bit wet of late, well it has been pouring down, and having a Golf Chairman who has contact with ‘Him’ is most useful. Thursday was atrocious, so Perry had a word and ‘Voila,’ Friday was great weather. Mind the course was still saturated and carts were not allowed. The fairways were soaking wet, so lift, clean and place was a must, especially as we were playing ‘C’ which is at best always a water hazard and ‘B’ which was not as bad.
With 136 players the day was always going to be a little slow but after a very laborious start on ‘C’ when the first two holes took 1 hour, the last 16 only took 4 hours - swings and roundabouts. Overall the course was what Laem Chabang is when it has thrown it down for days - Nuff said.

The Golf Chairman with his happy band.
One good feat on the day that requires a mention was the ‘2’ of Danny Larson on the 10th, as this is a par 4.
The day went pretty well, and as we all know the course is a bit special so all who played enjoyed their game despite most getting destroyed. Still all good things come to an end and it was not long until we were in the shower and up in the restaurant, then back to Pattaya and Jamesons, and why not?
Here I must mention our tremendous sponsors who on this day really gave us fantastic support: The main sponsors were New Orleans Cafe, Shenanigans, Trattoria Italiana, Green Bottle, Moon River, Tequila Reef, Blue Parrot, Khao Kheow Country Club, Sunset Cafe, Burapha Golf and Resort Club, Apex Beauty Central, The Golf Club, Pattaya Golf Club. Other sponsors were Dusit Fitness, Rum and Monkey and Pattaya City Golf.
Special thanks must go to Kim Fletcher and the staff of Jamesons The Irish Pub and Restaurant and the participation of The MLG Insurance Broker Managing Director, Jack Levy. We also thank the members of P.S.C. who gave freely of their time.
So golf over it was back to Jamesons and the presentation, but not before all enjoyed the fine food there. The place was packed and it seemed that all 136 players turned up there. A really good turnout and a fine night was had by all, and as a another bit of good luck, our M.C. Mike Gerrard decided not to give us a song. Happy Days.
The winners were, in the A Flight (a stroke competition), first was Jim McGovern with a net 71 ahead of Chris Holmes in second with a net 72 on count back over Kris Koswicki in third and Mike Alidi in fourth. In fifth was Al Kraft with a net 73. Quite a tight group of scores.
In the B Flight the scores were similar to the A Flight. The winner with a net 70 was Tony Barrit ahead of Richard Garland in second with a net 71, in third was Bob Rasmusson with a net 72 ahead of Danny Larson in fourth on count back and in fifth was Ken Hale with a net 73.
So to the C Flight and here we go into a stableford competition. The winner was Steve Ellison with 41 points, the best score of the day, in second was Kris Hodgson with 40 points ahead of Greg Ritchie in third with 34 points and a count back on 33 points saw Duncan Lee in fourth and Gary Strickleton in fifth.
In the D Flight the winner was Peter Whitehead with 38 points ahead of Les Shaw in second with 36 points. In third was Al Bisset with 35 points ahead of Ray Leppard in fourth with 34 points and in fifth was Roger Kochler with 33 points.
The Ladies winner was Lal Keith with 30 points.
Incidentally if I have spelt anyone’s name incorrectly I apologise but the cryptographer was busy and I had to decipher the names myself.
So to the technical prizes, and the Long Drive winners were: Monte Sykes, Jeff King, Martin Zimmerman, Loz Shaw and La Keith. Near Pins went to: Giorgio Baccioli, Chris Holmes, Kris Kritsmagarthy, Jim McGovern, Danny Larson Gerry Bowdon Bob Bender, Derek Brook, Kevin Hamilton, Steve Ellison, Darren Sellers, Phil Barnsley, Ed Horrocks, Russel Warner, Herbie Schweiterman, La Keith. Long Putt winners were: William Macey, Bob Bender, David Johnson, Roger Kochler and Mon Thongkieres.
The night went on and nearly all who had not won came out in the Lucky Draw. All in all a tremendous day, and night, and as Kim said far beyond his expectations. Well done all the organisers.
NB: Please note, get your name down early for next month as we are limited to 120 at Siam Plantation. T.T.F.N.

Smith scores double win at Burapha

PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column
Monday, 8 Sept., Burapha - Stableford
Rain threatened once again today, as 57 Outbackers battled away from the white tees on Crystal & Dunes in intense humidity. No less than eleven played better than handicap, twelve if Harvey Samuel is included, who fired a score of 40 plus in the Outbackers Pairs Trophy, single handedly knocking out the two Bruces.
Also in the pairs; Joachim & Murray Hart beat the Doodys by a dog licence (7 & 6), Suzi Lawton & Jack Moseley were beaten on the 18th hole by George Bishop & Gary Hewson, Pottsy & Rosco beat Des Scott & Alan Bishop and Paul Bourke & Eddie Smith demolished Briany Christie & Paul Greenaway.
Eddie Smith also won the overall with 42 points, scoring 25 of them on the front nine with Marc Levy notching up another good round to take second with 41. Both of these guys have earned themselves new handicaps under the PSC handicap committee’s ruling of 9.0 and 5.0 respectively; Fred Brent joined them with an excellent 41 points reducing his handicap from 10.3 to 9.3. Well played guys!
There were four ‘2’s today from Murray Hart, Fred Brent, Eddie Smith & Briany Christie, who got his on a Par 4!
Overall
1st Eddie Smith (10) 42pts
2nd Marc Levy (6) 41pts
Div A (0-12)
1st Fred Brent (10) 41pts
2nd Jack Moseley (9) 37pts
3rd Syd Lebron (12) 32pts
4th Paul Whitehall (12) 32pts
Div B (13-18)
1st Rick Sharp (13) 38pts
2nd Paul Young (13) 38pts
3rd Frank O’Neill (14) 38pts
4th George Bishop (17) 37pts
Div C (19+)
1st Chris Van (27) 38pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 37pts
3rd Campbell Potts (19) 35pts
4th Dick Hayes (19) 34pts
Wednesday, 10 Sept., Bangpra – Stableford
Thirty-five Outbackers escaped the serious storm that enveloped the course around 4.30 in the afternoon. As the last couple of groups left the 18th green, the first lightning struck. The siren went off shortly afterwards, but most of the Thais preferred to continue playing; when it went off for the second time, the marshalls shepherded them to the clubhouse and the course was closed for the day.
Paul Bourke was the star of the day with 37 points off his new handicap of 9.6, just edging out Capt’ Bob on count back, also on 37. John Mills, one of the visiting Aussie boys, took third back on 34.
Sugar Ray did just enough to beat the Decanter winner, Carl Lovatt by one shot, whilst another visiting Aussie, Bert Brown won Div C on an unusually low score of only 33.
The greens were tricky and the course looked pretty good after it’s recent renovations but the five-hour plus round made it a long day. The monkeys are still there in abundance happy to nick whatever they can out of the unguarded golf cart, including Trudy’s Heineken. The new style clubhouse is plain & clinical and the restaurant has lost its character, but the changing rooms are a vast improvement with some interesting Japanese innovations in the toilets!
There were three ‘2’s coming from Des Scott, John Mill’s & Geoff Doody.
Div A (0-14)
1st Paul Bourke (10) 37pts
2nd Bob Philp (7) 37pts
3rd John Mills (14) 34pst
Div B (15-21)
1st Sugar Ray Hanford (19) 35pts
2nd Carl Lovatt (15) 34pts
3rd Martin Zimmerman (18) 33pts
Div C (22+)
1st Bert Brown (27) 33pts
2nd Joachim Oestreicher (23) 30pts
3rd Ray Underwood (24) 29pts
Friday, 12 Sept., Siam Plantation - Stableford
Unlike recent days, a strong south-westerly wind cooled the 52 Outbackers as they gathered at the holding area next to the driving range, to await the official 11am tee time. Some hit a few balls to hone their swing, some concentrated on the all important putting and chipping; but all knew in the windy conditions, Tapioca & Pineapple were going to be tough, albeit most likely dry.
Capt’ Bob, who remains totally unflustered whilst organising the troops, amazingly put together his best score yet at Plantation to win Div A with 35 points. A great score round here by anybody’s standards that was bolstered by his eagle two on the short par-4 fifth on Pineapple. Well played Bob!
A big welcome to the Lewiinski boys that joined the Outbackers again today and success for one of them in Div B, Joe McArdle taking the honours with 33 points, four clear of his nearest rival Vic Hestor.
A recount in Div C, placed Lawrence Montgomery firmly at the head of affairs whilst the only lady in the field, An Pulbrook, played outstandingly to head off the fast improving Gary Hewson in the D division.
There were three ‘2’s today from Capt’ Bob, Robert Cross & Tony Thorne. It was also farewell to the Aussie group that joined the Outback Golf Bar this week and it will great to see you back next year.
Div A (+1-11)
1st Bob Philp (7) 35pts
2nd Paul Greenaway (11) 34pts
3rd Robert Cross (8) 33pts
Div B (12-14)
1st Joe McArdle (13) 33pts
2nd Vic Hester (13) 29pts
3rd Malcolm Willis (13) 27pts
Div C (15-20)
1st Lawrence Montgomery (16) 33pts
2nd George Bishop (17) 31pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (15) 31pts
Div D (21+)
1st An Pulbrook (24) 38pts
2nd Gary Hewson (25) 36pts
3rd Jack Hinchey (21) 30pts
Friday, 12 Sept., Emerald - Stableford
Pimusa earned herself a new handicap of 15.6 with the day’s top score of 41 points. Heading the field of eighteen Outbackers at this week’s alternate Friday venue, the Emerald; she beat Bruce McAdam (B2) & Barry Chadbourn (Chad) by three.
B2 & Chad were tied on 38 but B2 earned his second spot on count back scoring 21 points to Chad’s 19 on the back nine. They were five clear of the rest of the field which was headed by Don Frances (welcome back from the UK) and Kathy Doody.
There were three ‘2’s today, one from Don Frances and the other two from Norm Martin, well played Norm!
1st Pimusa Tonkhoksoong (17) 41pts
2nd Bruce McAdam (19) 38pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (20) 38pts
4th Donald Frances (10) 33pts
5th Kathy Doody (20) 33pts
That’s all for now. If you have any thoughts, scandalous stories or suggestions, why not drop me a line at [email protected]
The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474. More information can be found on our website www. outbackgolfbar.com.

Wilkinson & Ito still the men in form

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
Rulings?
Many of our regular golfers who play with us week in and week out have been playing the game for many years and are fully aware of the rules that are used in the game. However, many are new and have to learn the rules as they play, calling on the expertise of the older hands when unsure of a ruling.

Saturday’s winners: Alun Evans, George Robinson, John Dennis, Robert Lamond and Rung.
At one outing this week, rulings were asked for on a number of occasions and as normal the partner participating was asked for his verdict. However, this was not accepted and a further ruling was requested from the organiser who happened to be playing in the same four-ball group. The request for relief on all occasions was denied much to the distress of the player concerned, who I might add has been playing many years.
Players need reminding that the spirit of the game relies on the integrity of the individual player to abide by the rules and rulings, accept them and demonstrate courtesy and sportsmanship irrespective of how competitive they may be.
Tuesday 9 Sept., Bangpra – Stableford
A Flight (0-15)
1st Akitoshi Ito (9) 37pts
2nd Matt Gibbons (13) 34pts
3rd Mike Wardman (12) 34pts
B Flight (16-up)
1st Frank Kelly (16) 37pts
2nd Steve Gould (19) 34pts
3rd Peter Cooke (25) 32pts
2’s: Billy Fitzgerald
First outing this week was to Bangpra on Tuesday and we had a great turnout. The numbers are really on the increase so sign up early please.
Frank Kelly, who has recently returned from the Emerald Isle, was on form today and won the second division with a fine thirty-seven points, three clear of second placed Steve Gould. Peter Cooke, a new name to me, was in third with thirty-two.
The top division went to Akitoshi Ito with a thirty-seven point haul for his second win in two weeks. In second yet again was “Mr Second” Matt Gibbons on thirty-four after a count back fight with Mike Wardman.
Thursday, 11 Sept., Phoenix
(Mountain and Ocean) – Stableford
A Flight
1st Tony Cunningham (12) 33pts
2nd Akitoshi Ito (8) 33pts
3rd Andy Robinson (10) 33pts
4th Richard Wakeling (11) 32pts
B Flight
1st Roger Wilkinson (15) 38pts
2nd Ted Senior (17) 37pts
3rd Frank Kelly (16) 35pts
4th Alun Webber (24) 34pts
2’s: Frank Kelly and Akitoshi Ito
On Thursday it was again back to one of our regular visits to Phoenix (Mountain and Ocean). And yes, we again had a very good turnout and two divisions, 0-14 and 15 up.
Division one saw a win for Tony Cunningham with thirty three points after a three-way count back over second placed Akitoshi Ito and Andy Robinson in third, while Richard Wakeling was fourth with thirty-one.
The second division was yet another win, also his second in two weeks for Roger Wilkinson with thirty eight points. In second on thirty-seven was Ted Senior and Fran Kelly came in third with thirty-five.
There were two 2’s from Akitoshi Ito and Frank Kelly.
It was nice to see the return of Paula and Hugh Byrne from Ireland. I had it reported that Paula has given new names to Alan Evans (Captain Marvel) and Alun Webber (Sexy Man). Not sure of the connotations applied - you have to make up your own mind on that!
Saturday, 13 Sept., Eastern Star - Stableford
A Flight
1st Robert Lamond (5) 37pts
2nd George Robinson (11) 35pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (10) 35pts
4th Richard Wakeling (13) 33pts
B Flight
1st Alun Evans (26) 34pts
2nd Rung (20) 32pts
3rd John Dennis (32) 30pts
4th Roger Wilkinson (25) 29pts
2’s: Kevin Read, Matt Gibbons and Dean Rice
Saturday was a trip to our usual weekend venue at Eastern Star. We had one of the largest turnouts for many a week and the scores also improved a little this week. The weather was kind, no rain delays during the round but some of the pin placements were still very testing.
The B Flight winner was Alan Evans (Captain Marvel) with thirty-four points, two up on second placed Rung. In third was John Dennis on thirty and fourth spot was won on a count back by Roger Wilkinson over Ted Senior.
Top A Flight honours went to Robert Lamond with thirty-seven points, in second was George Robinson after a count back win against Fergus Brennan, both with thirty five, and Richard Wakeling picked up fourth spot with a thirty-one.
There were four 2’s on the day: Mod Chaviraksa with an eagle two at the sixteenth. Hugh Byrne, George Robinson and Robert Lamond.
The near pins have been reintroduced now that the numbers are way up and these were claimed by George Robinson and Jim Ledwidge.

Haven pull out the stops to win thrilling match play encounter

International Pattaya Match Play League

Monday 8 Sept., Phoenix – Haven v Jomtien Golf
This was the penultimate fixture for both venues in the International Pattaya Match Play League with The Haven needing a victory to keep alive their hopes of finishing top in the inaugural season.
They faced a stiff task, as they were giving up a total of 54 shots over the eight matches, and needed all their resolve in taking on the side that had drawn twice with their main rivals for the title, Lewiinski’s, earlier in the series.
After the first two games the two sides were tied at 1-1 after Barry Winton had gone down against Tom Sathrum, with Tom finishing the game on the 15th at 5 & 3 when he was 3-over gross off his 12 handicap. Barry’s fine effort of level gross up to that point was just not quite good enough. In the same four-ball, Al Keith overcame Harry Riley as the former stroked it round in 69 gross to be eight-under against Harry’s two-under handicap, Harry going down 6 & 4.
The second four-ball found the pressure being applied by the new and the old as Russell Exley strode in confidently against Paddy Wilson 4 & 2, being only 4 over par as the game ended on the 16th. Barry Traynor did a fantastic Houdini escape act after being dormie 4 down against Jim Lane. He battled back to end the game all square with a birdie on the last and two-under gross over the last four holes.
So with the match finely balanced at two and a half to one and a half, it was up to Tony Barritt and Mike Dabanovich to try and close out on a winning note: Firstly Mike struggled in giving seven shots to Adrian Shelley, as Adrian slipped in a purple patch at the start of the inward half after a solid start, having been one up after nine. This was enough to see Mike off at 4 & 2.
So all square at two and a half each in the match and with Tony Barritt having been dormie 5 up, things were looking pretty rosy for the boys from Soi 13. But Dannie Larsen had a few ideas of his own in that matter and fought all the way to the last hole as Tony was unable to grab the half on any of the last five holes and left a sadder and wiser chicken counter at all square, to sink a few quite ones back at the bar and rue the three putt from four feet on the 14th, when two for it would have done.
So both teams were counting on the last two games out on the course, which had been held up after finishing the 14th by a tremendous thunderstorm, accompanied by very heavy lightning. Stephen Beard was dormie 4 up against Alan Bissell when they were forced to stop and Alan Griffiths 2 up against Tony Duthie after they had both snatched a win on the par three.
On the resumption Stephen slipped back into top gear immediately to win the next hole and the game 5 & 3 and thankfully slumped back into his golf cart, his day done. Tony Duthie made a fighting effort to hang on to Alan’s improving game but just could not slip in the vital putts and went down 2 & 1 and have the match sealed by The Haven 5 to 3.
It was a fine match, played in the best spirit of golf and friendship with many of the participants bettering their handicaps on both sides of scoreboard, new golfing friends were made and it was just a little sad that one side had to lose such a closely contested event.
The league title now rests on the outcome of the match between Lewiinski’s and The Haven on Wednesday 24 September at Green Valley where Lewiinski’s need a win but a draw will be enough to see The Haven through.
Individual Match Results
Barry Winton (3) lost 5 & 3 v Tom Sathrum (12); Al Keith (5) won 6 & 4 v Harry Riley (14); Russell Exley (8) won 4 & 2 Paddy Wilson (14); Barry Traynor (9) all square v Adrian Shelley (18); Tony Barritt (12) all square v Dannie Larsen (19); Mike Dabanovich (12) lost 4 & 2 v Burnie Sinclair (19); Alan Griffiths (16) won 2 & 1 v Tony Duthie (21); Stephen Beard (20) won 5 & 3 v Alan Bissell (22).

Peter Sumner returns with a bang

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday 8 Sept., Phoenix - Stableford
1st Peter Sumner 42pts
2nd Rick Schramm 37pts
3rd Paul Hartley 36pts
4th Trevor Schirmer 35pts
5th Ken Deringer 35pts
6th Chris Knapp 35pts
Peter Sumner returned to Pattaya following a three-month stint of work during which time he “did not even get the clubs out to clean.” The lay off from either golf or Thailand seemed to have worked wonders as he immediately slipped into top form with a six-under return that swept the rest of the field away by a clear five shots.
Rick Schramm was next best with a one-under, heading Paul Hartley and a group another two off the pace consisting of Trevor Schirmer, Ken Deringer and Chris Knapp, with Trevor leading them by virtue of 20 points on the count back as opposed to Ken’s 19 and Chris’s 18.
In the 2’s section, the carryovers were suspended as some players were ineligible to enter due to their participation in the match against Jomtien Golf, but there were two separate 2’s for the day. There were none in the second division but Jens Gunnarsson and Ken Deringer shared the first division pool.
Prior to the prize giving The Doc welcomed new member Mike Hickey and also welcomed back Geoff Picken and Peter Sumner.
Wednesday, 10 Sept., Bangpra - Stableford
1st Russell Exley 35pts
2nd Barry Traynor 35pts
3rd Peter Sumner 35pts
4th Shane Heavey 35pts
5th Mike Dabanovich 35pts
Playing the revamped Bangpra was a real pleasure with its refurbished changing rooms, restaurant and the course in fantastic condition. It is just a great pity that they are one of the local courses to change to two tee off times as from October, with one at 11.42, and to try and get up to twelve groups off and round before dark is a difficult task with the strong possibility that many will not finish. Due to this it has unfortunately been taken off the schedule until the low season returns.
The reason for two starting times 6 am something until 8.40am and 11 42 am from two tees, cannot surely be to get more players on the course, as a one tee start from the beginning will see the course as full as it can be throughout the day and still have the ability to fit another group in.
The day’s competition was taken by the continuing in-form Russell Exley, leading the whole podium with the same score but having 20 points on the count back against Barry Traynor’ s 19 and 13 on the back six and Peter Sumner ‘s 19 and 12. Shane Heavey had 18 on the back whilst Mike Dabanovich had a meager 15 after a big start on the front nine.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division and once again Jens Gunnarsson had one in the first division which got him a share of the pot with Shane Heavey.
Before the presentations Roar Berger was welcomed back
Friday, 12 Sept., Phoenix – Stroke play
1st Alan Griffiths 67pts
2nd Alex Hartley 71pts
3rd Shane Heavey 72pts
4th Mark Campbell 72pts
5th Orathai Winton 72pts
6th Russell Exley 73pts
7th Barry Winton 73pts
Following a poor reception on the last visit to Greenwood and the likelihood of a long trip and a rained off day, the day’s event was switched to Phoenix and made into a stroke play competition.
Alan Griffiths is only three games into his return and having won his match play on the last outing he followed up with a stunning five-under that will see his handicap drop two, as he was just on the cusp of 16 at 15.5, for the upcoming matches against the OK Corral and the all important big one against Lewiinski’s.
Alex Hartley also just back made it a day to doubly celebrate as he went under his handicap and beat his playing partner and dad Paul.
Shane Heavey led in a large group on level par with a better back nine of 34.5, with Mark Campbell also making a return to the Haven and the podium with 35 on the back but a better back six by 1 to edge out Orathai Winton, who in turn was ahead of the ever-present Russell Exley and her husband Barry.
The day’s scores were extremely good when considering the wetness of the course and it was some surprise to find the CSS went down to 71 in a stroke play event.
Back at The Haven, The Doc welcomed back Alex Hartley and Kazuki Agune and had a farewell for Shane Heavey.

Gardner on top at Bangpra

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, 9 Sept., Bangpra (White Tees) - Stableford
Fourteen of us visited the ever-improving Bangpra course where we were entertained, not only by the golf, but also by the biggest troop of monkeys I have seen for some time and a monster monitor lizard ambling across a fairway and plunging into a lateral water hazard.
David Gardner (10) had the best of things, returning 37 stableford points, whilst Ken Hole (13), yours truly (13) and Willy Nachbur (23) each returned 33 points to come in 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectively following a count back.
Willy Nachbur, Tiger Jumparnit, Ken Hole and Yves Philibert won near pin bonuses whilst Dennis Dunkley sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green. The average score was 27.3 points.
Thursday, 11 Sept., Plutaluang
Thursday’s tournament at Plutaluang Navy was a non-starter because of the heavy early morning rain, although a few stalwarts did knock it round later in the day. Eight ‘PJs’ also played the PSC tournament at Laem Chabang on Friday.
We can only hope that the management of this very picturesque course will call in the army camouflage experts to explain how application of paint will cause the floodlight pylons adorning course B to merge with the background and not be the horrid eyesore they now are. The dinner and prize giving at Jamesons was a good time that was enjoyed by all.
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.

Hamilton & Phur share MoM honours at the Valley

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, 7 Sept., Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Terry Phur (15) 41pts
2nd Dave Mather (12) 38pts
3rd Mal Willis (13) 37pts
B Flight
1st Kevin Hamilton (19) 41pts
2nd Bob Lindburg (16) 36pts
3rd Yui Bietry (20) 34pts
Near Pins: #2 Roy Thornton; #9 Ian Grout; #12 Peter Henshaw, #16 Malcolm Willis
Hidden Six: 1st Bruce Milner 2nd Bob Newell 3rd Gareth Gill
The rain came down in buckets, but this did not stop Terry Phur from shooting a super 41 points to waltz away to a share of man of the match, and A Flight glory. Second spot was filled by Dave Mather with a fine 38 points and completing the honors in A flight was Mal Willis on 34 points
Top spot in B Flight went to ‘Big’ Kevin Hamilton with 41 points and a tie for man of the match. Bob, the Guru of Green Valley, took second on an even par 36 points and rounding out the flight was the Magician’s wife, Yui.
After the match it was back to Lewiinsk’s for some cold beers and the new chef’s superb food.
Wednesday, Sept. 10, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Vic Hestor (13) 40pts
2nd Joe Mcardle (13) 37pts
B Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (15) 36pts
2nd Geoff Kubas (22) 36pts
Vic Hestor made short work of winning A Flight with an excellent 40 points whilst following in second place was Joe “Hot Pants” Mcardle.
B Flight was more of a battle between the Magician and Geoff Kubas, both with an even par 36 points: The Magician showed his count back skills and got the verdict .
Bill Broschart and Skippy Milner shared the 2’s pot.
Friday, Sept. 12, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Clinton Hazlett (5) 41pts
2nd Vic Hestor (13) 37pts
3rd Kris K (5) 36pts
The work to the clubhouse is about finished, and now boasts of the best bogs in Thailand: a must for any toilet inspector to see.
Oh yes, the golf - big hitting Clinton Hazlett stormed round the course in amazing fashion to amass 41 points. Second place went to the inform Vic Hestor on37 points and Kris Kay rounded out the flight with an even par 36 points.
Back at the ranch the talk was all about the amazing toilets, no kidding.

‘Sunday Best’ for Harry Riley

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

If it’s Sunday it must be Eastern Star, and the Pattaya Golf Society gathered at the OK Corral as normal on 7 September anticipating another fine day’s stableford golf in Ban Chang. They were not to be disappointed as they returned to the scene of the previous week’s hole-in-one by David Thomas.

August “Player of the Month” Chris Voller, right, is congratulated by Mr. Denis.

Once again Ya Riley came close but just faltered, dropping three points on the final four holes to leave her in fourth place on 33 points. In third place, one point better, was Masashi Iizumi, savouring the penultimate round of his short stay. The current “Player of the Month”, Chris Voller emphasised his consistency with another fine round, posting the day’s best gross figures once again, only to scratch the final hole, leaving him frustratingly on 35 points as runner-up. The day’s winner with a level par round of 36 points was Harry Riley, another golfer enjoying a consistent run at present.
Stan Kure and Chris Voller birdied the par three sixth and they shared the 2’s pot with Don Nellis after his excellent birdie effort on the tight par-three thirteenth.
At the other end of the field a trio of Japanese golfers all recorded the day’s lowest scores and when count back was invoked Stan Kure’s eight “blobs” guaranteed him the Booby Bevy for the day. But no smile was broader than that of Harry Riley who had come up with another Sunday Best.
Quality counts
The Pattaya Golf Society visited beautiful Bangpra on Tuesday, 9 September, to play a stableford event over the rapidly improving course.
At the moment Bangpra is looking good with lush fairways and greens becoming more consistent by the day, and money invested by the new parent company has been invested well, but at what cost we may ponder?
However, golf is golf and what quality golf was on display. With a third of the field managing to break par it was left to the usual principals to feature at the top of the leaderboard.
Stan Kure rediscovered his form after a weekend to forget to post 38 points and just edge Rick Schramm out of the reckoning, on a course on which the latter is never happy. The top two players, Chris Voller and David Thomas went head-to-head throughout and the tussle went right down to the final green where Chris used his extra handicap to good advantage, nosing to the top with 40 points from David’s 39.
It was appropriate that the newly crowned PGS “Player of the Month” should take victory on the day it was to be awarded. Thomas had the honour of the day’s best gross figures of 74 which left him regretting dropping two shots on the opening three holes.
Playing with them, Stan Kure secured the day’s only birdie ‘2’ on the second and thus took the 2’s pot, leaving the outsider of the leading four-ball, Masashi Iizumi, to pick up the Booby Bevy for a mediocre round and a final beer before returning to Japan for another few months.
Bangpra had been all about quality on the day, the course and the golf being excellent.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

The best thing about boxing is boxers: they are fun guys to be around and they’re even more fun when allowed to talk in public. As with all those that participate in any sport, boxers have short memories, are able to re invent history in a nana-second and generally use a logic that would tax even the blondest blonde.
Scotland’s Alex Arthur, who recently lost his WBO super-feather title to Nicky Cook, now wants a rematch. Why? “I didn’t really need to fight Nicky. I thought it would be good to go to England and to fight an Englishman. I could have chosen another opponent. I believe I gave Nicky a great chance and I hope Nicky can be a man and give me a chance in return.”
This was Arthur’s fallback position after claiming initially that he was “robbed” by three English judges in England.
John, some Brie with that whine?
He’s been called John “The Quietman” Ruiz but isn’t. He’s at it again, this time with plans to file a protest with the WBA. John wants his loss against Nikolai Valuev overturned and changed to “no contest” with Valuev stripped of the title.
The protest is based on the following allegations: 1. Throughout the fight Valuev’s corner-man got a running judge’s score; 2. Judge Takeshi Shimalawa improperly kept a running score (which he either did or did not pass on to Valuev’s corner); 3. Ruiz was not credited with a knockdown in the second round - referee Derek Milham called it a slip; and 4. Judge Antonio Reguena scored two rounds “even” despite WBA instructions that there be no even rounds.
Ruiz is famous for never losing a fight yet his record is 48-8. Go figure. That aside Ruiz does have a point about a judge keeping a running score and Valuev’s corner getting scoring information during the bout. Forget the complaint about the referee calling a knockdown a “slip.” Happens all the time. It’s a judgment call on the part of the referee. Some referees have good judgment, some have bad, while some have none. Just like people that cover boxing. Scoring rounds “even” again is a chicken and egg argument with both side having valid points.
For years the Nevada Athletic Commission made the “suggestion” to its judges that they not score rounds “even,” i.e. someone wins every round. Those Nevada judges that disagreed found themselves working 4-round fights in front if jackrabbits, sagebrush and old blue haired ladies playing bingo while sipping on drinks with umbrellas in them.
TSR has always believed that there are rounds that no one wins. Ergo “even”. In this case neither judge Shimalawa nor judge Reguena will suffer any lasting effects of their indiscretions.
Valuev’s folks answered back: “That is absolutely ridiculous. His accusations are without any substance. They are an affront to the WBA and their officials. Everybody saw that Nikolai clearly won the fight …it really is a shame that Ruiz acts as a sore loser yet again.”
Ranking Organizations - Local Commissions
It’s never positive for any sport when the news of the week is about “inside stuff.” That’s what happened last week in America. A Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi was promoting a big time double header boxing show on the Showtime cable channel. One of the bouts was the WBC jr. welterweight title fight between champion Timothy Bradley jr. and Edner Cherry with another bout being a WBC title eliminator.
The “order of things” in boxing has been for the sanctioning organization (in this case the WBC) to appoint two of the four officials with the agreement of the local boxing commission. In this case the Mississippi Commission decided that they would appoint all officials, with no counsel from anyone and the hell with the sanctioning organization. If the Mississippi Commission were an automobile is would be a HUGO. A neighboring state, Alabama, uses the motto, “At least we’re not Mississippi.”
The WBC released a letter with a lot of very “nice words”. To paraphrase and make stuff up it read: “Please don’t do that. We are the sanctioning organization and control our own destiny. We’ll buy ringside tickets and send in our own judges. Your guys can judge but we won’t be bound by them.” Left out were the closing words, “Neener neener neener.”
Mississippi then said, “You do that and we’ll have your judges arrested. Oh by the way, ask your judges if they’ve ever seen the movie My Cousin Vinny.”
Mississippi also used 2 referees that were not WBC approved. One boxing professional wrote, “What a ******* joke. They are bringing in Bill Clancy and Gary Ritter to referee the two matches in Biloxi tonight. As fat as you are, you could do a better job then both of those ki** a***s.”
I thanked the e-mailer for the nice compliment. In the end the WBC blinked: Winner - Mississippi Commission. Loser - boxing in general.
Results - Biloxi, Mississippi
It actually made no difference who did the scoring as WBC super-lightweight champion, Timothy Bradley (23-0), had no trouble disposing of Edner Cherry over 12 stanzas. Discounting some early positive results in round 1, a good left hook in round 4 and a clean right hand in the 11th, it was all Bradley. The fight was entertaining, which is code boxing speak for the fact that both boxers came to fight. That in itself is refreshing. Bradley got the lone knockdown of the fight in the 8th. In the end Bradley’s winning margin of 119-109, 118-109, 117-110 describes the fight to a “T”.
As if Biloxi didn’t have enough troubles, besides being in Mississippi, Nate Campbell’s defense of his 135-pound IBF, WBA, WBO titles was canceled at the last minute. First his opponent Joan Guzman couldn’t make the weight, missing by 3½ pounds. He then “declined” to make any further effort at reaching the limit. Still the fight was on until Guzman notified officials that he wouldn’t take part hours before the contest was due to start.
An official statement said, “Guzman is said to be not well enough to fight due to a health situation attributed to attempting to make weight. The commission doctor confirmed that Guzman was severely dehydrated and unable to go. Another source said Guzman was back and forth all day today before finally making the decision himself not to fight.”
Las Vegas, Nevada
Big double header in Las Vegas to celebrate Independence Day. That would be Mexican Independence Day celebrated in Mexico, California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. The day marks the country’s independence from Spain. We understand that in Spain the day is also celebrated, much like England celebrates July 4th for ridding itself of those pesky Yanks.
When last seen Juan Manuel Marquez (49-4-1) was observed losing a “very controversial” decision to Manny Pacquiao. It was very controversial because The Square Ring had Marquez the winner. Marquez chose to move up in weight to face Joel Casamayor (36-4-1) who seems to have been around forever. Talk before the fight predicted that if the bout went the full 12 no one would like the judges’ scoring. Casamayor is that type of fighter.
Marquez however took care of any work the judges might have to do as he battered Casamayor from round 5 on, after the fight being close early, busting up his face and dropping him twice in the 11th round. Referee Tony Weeks stopped the fight at 2:55.
Vernon Forrest (41-3) is another one that’s been around it seems forever. He lost the WBC super-welter title earlier this year to Sergio “The Snake” Mora (21-1-1). Mora’s claim to fame up to the win was that he was the Contender first year winner. The rematch had Forrest taking charge, getting a knockdown in the 7th on his was to a 119-108, 118-109, 117-110 UD to retain the title.
Pakhai District, Anyutthaya
Onesongchai Boxing, good friends of this column, promoted a Friday of boxing that helped two of their fighters pad their records. WBC youth bantam title-holder, Pungluang Sor Singyu (21-0), got a 3-round KO over Jayson Layson (3-5). During the short duration of the bout the two traded punches as Singyu got a win and a cut over his right eyebrow for the day’s work.
Featherweight, Chonlatarn Or Piriyapinyo (27-0) needed only three rounds to KO Joan de Guia (6-8). The 10-count came after de Guia hit the canvas for the second time in the round.
Oscar-Manny
…getting really silly
Having the job as the flak for the December 6, Oscar De La Hoya-Manny Pacquiao fight has got to be trying at times. The latest attempt for news space, which worked with TSR, are quotes from promoter “Buffalo” Bob Arum and trainer Freddie Roach. Those quotes are that Pacquiao will be the choice of the majority of Mexican boxing fans.
Lest this nuance has slipped past you boxing fans, the sport is not “politically correct.” It’s always been one nationality against another. It’s a game of “My Dad can whip your Dad” or as they say south of the USA border along with Nevada, California, New Mexico and Texas, “Mi Padre can whipo su Padre.”
Promoter Bob “I’m telling the truth today” Arum said: “Manny has endeared himself to the Mexican fight fans because he’s been the active fighter, he’s fought the Mexicans, he’s conducted himself like a gentleman and he fights like a Mexican. Manny has tremendous, tremendous fans among the Mexicans. I think to some extent he may have more fans than Oscar does among Mexicans.”
If there was a loud buzzing sound as you read this it is because your BS meter has gone off.
Freddie Roach is the one of the “favor de jour” among today’s boxing trainers. He had 52 professional fights and was a double tough dude. He would fight, and did, until he dropped (many times). He sometimes makes statements that attest to this fact, “Believe me, the true Mexican fans are going to be on Manny Pacquiao’s side because you know what, Oscar’s never been accepted by the true Mexican fans from Mexico. Mexican-Americans yes, but not Mexicans,” said Roach. “And Manny Pacquiao’s style, the Mexican’s love that. People call Manny the ‘Mexican Assassin’ but Manny’s never really taken that name. He doesn’t dislike anybody.”
A member of the De La Hoya camp answered, “Freddie is not Mexican so what would he know? I don’t even know if Freddie has been to Mexico.”
But does he drink Corona with a lime?
Jeeves time
‘Your Lordship, The Jesters Kids Fair was a huge success and Mr. Doug from Bourbon Street sends his regards. Here’s you beverage, a nice cigar and some sounds for the boom box. How was your week?’
‘It was just great, Jeeves. I flew on Southwest Airlines and prior to landing the flight attendant announced, “Those that have placed articles in the overhead bins be careful when you open the bins. As we all know s*** happens. We appreciate your suggestions and enquiries. Please write them on a $20 dollar bill and hand to an attendant on the way out.” When the plane reached the gate and the seat belts were turned off the attendant said, “OK everybody out.” Life is good.’

Three Sisters again beats the rain

Tuesday, September 9 saw the usual suspects line up at the Pattaya Country Club. While the clouds were threatening, they held off until all the players got off the course.
The fairways were soaked from the rain of Monday night and they were giving very little roll; in more than a few cases the balls almost disappeared in the soaked soil. The local flies were also out in force and provided a distraction to players.

Tuesday winner Dale Murphy, right, with runner-up Richard Hall.

The greens were another horror story. Covered with morning dew and recent mowing, judging the stroke was nearly impossible. The balls not only had a rooster tail but wound up with a nice coating of mowed green grass.
Not withstanding the hardships, Dale Murphy rose to the occasion with a resounding 31 points, surely one of the lowest winning scores in months. Richard Hall and Walt Straub came “roaring” in with 30 points each: Richard had 18 on the back nine against Walt’s 13. Meanwhile the remainder of the field asked that their scores not be referenced.
Despite the tough going on the course, all participants retired to Caddy Shack II to wolf down one or more of the Herb Ishinaga provided hot dogs.

Cotton wins by six at Pattana

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, 9 Sept., Pattana - Stableford
1st Thomas Cotton 41pts
2nd Derek Brook 35pts)
Near Pins: Anders Pedersen, Dick Warberg, Derek Brook, Thomas Cotton
Long Putts: Perry McNeely, Badger 
A generous gaggle of golfers met early Tuesday at Bert’s, but Bert was still sleeping and missed their landing and subsequent takeoff for Pattana Golf Course. They charged out of town dodging the friendly enforcers of the lower speed limits and Pattana silently hailed their arrival.

Tuesday’s winner Thomas Cotton, left, with Derek Brook, right, and a ‘Tropical’ waitress.

The course proved to be sparsely populated and in good trim, although the greens were brownish and a touch slow. The sky was overcast and gloomy and the air was still.
We played A and C courses off the yellow tees. The field was replete with notable golfers like Perry McNeely, reigning “Golfer of the Year” and Mashi Kenata, former “Golfer of the Year”, so it should have been a day for high scores, right?
Ideal and idyllic were the conditions indeed, but the golfers seemed to be more interested in watching birds and smelling the flowers. However, there was one deviant amongst the crowd who managed to better his handicap and that by a 5-point spread. When interviewed by the reporter after the competition, he attributed his success to drinking green tea every morning and recent lessons from Richard Livingston.
After the game, the players were serenaded in the locker room by Bach’s Brandenberg Concerti, had a bite to eat at the excellent course restaurant and then repaired themselves back to Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar, where they feted the winners:

Singha and Ned form deadly duo

Bangkok v Retreat Invitational Bowls Tournament

Barry Hooper
An invitational bowls event was held recently at The Retreat Bowls Club in Nongprue on the outskirts of Pattaya. It was between an invitational team from Bangkok and the local club and invited players. Thirty-two players, both Farang and Thai, participated over two days in a doubles format.

Alex (club captain), Singha and Ned (tournament winners) and Albert (club owner).

At the start of the proceedings two groups were formed with the top four teams from each proceeding to the playoffs on the Sunday. This was however delayed due to heavy rain on the morning and no one thought that play would be possible but I must say that the greens drainage system worked very well and with a little assistance from the squeegee and some rolling, play got underway on the two rinks eventually. But the format was changed to only eight end matches in the main event and six end matches in the plate event, which was run for the losers from the previous day.
The final results saw a win in the “Plate” for Tannarit and Pooky by a score of six to five over Barry and Sri after an extra end was played due to a tie at five.
The main prize of the day went Singha and Ned, both local Thai players, over the pairing from Bangkok of Thiera and Alicia with a score line of ten to four.
After play had finished, which was quite late due to the delays, all were able to enjoy a fine array of food and drink and talk about the ‘if only’s’ on the day. The presentation followed and thanks was offered to the club and organisers for a well prepared and great event. May there be more in the future.

VFW Post 9876 moves into first

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

VFW Post 9876 beat Montana taking 3 points and moved past Montana into first place. Aht lead VFW with a 526 series. Brother D won three points from third place Café Kronborg.

200 Bowlers: Leo, Pao, Jon & Ooy.

La bowled a 538 series to lead Montgomery to a three point win over Café Ole. Sala Thai Restaurant took three points from Jack Tar and Mio bowled a 524 series and Barry a 511 as they lead House of the Golden Coin to a three point win over Sabai Sabai Friday.
Ooy had a good 586 series with a 210 game and her Canada team took three points from Bavaria. Leo bowled a 203 game and 539 series for Bavaria.