The medal is simple for Simon

IPGC Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, Sept. 14, Green Valley - Monthly Medal
A Flight
1st Simon Kendall (10) net 68
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) net 71
3rd Clinton Hazlett (5) 72
B Flight
1st Bill Broschart (16) net 71
2nd Alec Hoare (18) net 73
3rd Ivan Plunkett (22) net73
Near pins: #2 Bob Newell, #9 Shaun Kendall, #12 Kris K, #16 Jean Morel.
Two: Simon Kendall (a brace), Kris k, Bill Broschart and Alec Hoare.
Hidden Six: 1st Bruce Mcadam, 2nd Peter Emslie, 3rd Kris K.
Sunday, and our regular visit to Green Valley saw Simon Kendall win the day and the Monthly Medal with a net 68. Second place in A flight was filled by the Right Honorable Seamus Cotter on net 71. The flight was rounded off by big hitting Clinton Hazlett with a net 72.
B Flight winner was Bill Broschart with a net 71. Second place two strokes behind Bill was the Irishman Alec Hoare on a net 73, beating another Irishman, Ivan Plunkett on C/B into third place.
One ball and a couple of mates got lost on the way back to town, and finished up in an Elephant Village some where between Green Valley and Sattahip. I haven’t got a clue what it was called.
The rest of this week, the Lewiinski’s boys played in the Ryder Cup, along with the Golf Club and the Outback Bar. Please refer to the Outback write up for full details.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattayaland Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near Walking Street, and any one wishing to play with us, just pop in to the hotel and add your name to the list. Otherwise give Colin a ring on 0898260764. Transport is provided.

Raimon Land again Principal Sponsor for the King’s Cup Regatta

The world’s most friendly yacht-fest

By Peter Cummins
Following a signing ceremony held recently between Henri Young, director of sales & marketing for Raimon Land PLC and Kevin Whitcraft, president of the 2008 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta organizing committee, Thailand’s leading property developer agreed to underwrite the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta for a further five years, from 2008-2012.
Henri Young pointed out that “Raimon Land has a long term commitment to support the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, now firmly established as one of the main sailing events in Asia.”
Founded in 1987, as a 60th birthday tribute to HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, the King’s Cup, about to celebrate the 22nd sailing, has become the focal point in Thailand’s ‘especially, Phuket’s’ burgeoning yachting, cruising and marine-leisure sector development industries.
The King’s Cup is traditionally sailed during the birthday week of HM the King, the Regatta Royal Patron who, as the world’s longest-reigning Monarch, will celebrate his 81st birthday on the fifth of December 2008.
This year’s event will take place from the 29th November until the 6th of December 2008, during which it is anticipated some 2,000 sailors from more than 30 countries will participate.
Raimon Land PLC, a consistent and generous supporter of many sporting, social and cultural events in the Kingdom, sees yachting as a prime vehicle for its aim of ‘developing a better environment’. Or, as Raimon Land CEO Nigel Cornick expresses it, “The contribution to the Thai marine leisure industry is highly compatible with Raimon Land’s own lifestyle approach to development.”
Each year, a long list of Regatta supporters join Raimon Land and have done so over the two decades of the event. Mom Tri Devakul’s Boathouse and Grill on Kata Beach, one of the founding subscribers, reinforces the Kata Beach community interest while the Kata Beach Resort has continued as the Regatta home-base and management venue for the past decade.
Actually, the ‘uniqueness’ of the King’s Cup “apart from the Phuket’s superb climate, the ambience and the camaraderie which engulf every event” is the fact that so many come back each year: sailors, race management, sponsors and supporters are almost all ‘recidivists’.
As former president of the organizing committee (2004-2007) “and still a major driving force behind the Regatta’s outstanding success” Santi Kanchanabandhu said it so succinctly last week, “Every year there are new entries from around the world who soon join the ‘regulars’ on the annual ‘Phuket Pilgrimage’, to race, socialize and be a part of the magnetic event,” Santi noted.
“Our opening party and the following week’s festivities admirably reflect what is, perhaps, the largest social gathering of a world-wide sailing fraternity, who share the same passion for sailing and come to follow their dreams in one of the world’s most beautiful marine locations,” he added.
It’s almost like a ‘family affair’, enthuses Santi: the perennial, ongoing sponsors, the race management and the all-important members of the international jury, along with an army of volunteers, join in this great sail-fest year after year.
Even the Personal Representative of the HM the King, appointed each year by His Majesty to represent him at the elaborate Royal Awards Ceremony at the end of each regatta, has officiated at all except two events and knows many of the sailors personally. Rear Admiral M.L. Usni Pramoj has attended all of the 21 held so far since the inaugural in 1987, only missing those of 1988 and 1989. He even sailed on one occasion aboard Bill Gasson’s winning yacht.
Of course, the sophisticated Racing Class, one of the 10 usually accommodated in the Phuket racing, brings some of the world’s fastest yachts to Phuket each year to compete for the top honours. The likes of Hong Kong’s Neil Pryde has vied a myriad times, winning the ‘Formula One’ of the sea lanes many times.
New Zealander Bill Gasson, based at the Ocean Marina Jomtien Beach (south of Pattaya), too, has been a triple winner of the Racing Class. But, his pedigree goes beyond simply racing. He is one of the founders of the King’s Cup and, in fact, Bill has been one of the most active promoters of yacht racing in the Kingdom, as the imprimatur of the Koh Samui and the Top of the Gulf Regattas.
But, reverting to the almost ‘family ambience’ of the King’s Cup again, it is the stately Classic Class and the often ‘live-aboard’ Ocean Rover cruisers which bring this almost tangible atmosphere to successive Kings Cups.
Among other highly-competitive classes this year will be the Sports Boats, designed, built and raced by Thailand’s indigenous and expatriate sailors and a new breed of fast-moving catamarans, the Vietnamese-built Corsair.
A keel-boat, especially designed for Thai waters and Thai conditions by leading naval architect Bruce Farr, is the Platu fleet which has concentrated racing programmes out of the Ocean Marina. No doubt, supported year-round by Raimon Land, this class will be a feature.
And, the yachties, with or without a wonderful sailing environment, expect the best possible race management. And, every year the Regatta Organizing Committee ensures fair, exciting and safe sailing.
As in every international Yacht racing event, the world authority, the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) has designated top-class judges for the 2008 Phuket King’s Cup, headed by world-renowned Olympic judge and arbiter of the ISAF Racing Rules of Sailing, Bryan Willis, from the UK.
Bryan will be joined by other top professionals, Australian Mark Pryke, Thailand’s Radm Prasart Sribhadung and Rut Subniran, Malaysian Leonard Chin, Hong Kong’s Tom Sheppard, Wayne Boberg of New Zealand and Thai-based US lawyer Al Chandler.
Race management will also be looked after by another top professional, Sunsail’s Simon James, already into his second decade of on-water management, working with his assigned principal race officer(s) and management team.
Raimon Land will host a press conference at their splendid Chao Phraya property, the River, on Thursday, October 16, where full details, programme and a tentative list of entries will be available.
Press kits and media guidance will be available in English and Thai, through the respective pr companies, Vivaldi and Pris Priority.
Incumbent president of the organizing committee, well-known sailor and company entrepreneur Kevin Whitcraft, takes the helm, following in the wake of former illustrious presidents, Chris King (co-founder), Nigel Hardy, Adolph Knees, Peter Ole Herning, Bill Gasson, Andy Dowden and Santi Kanchanabhundu.
Kevin expects a regatta worthy of the dedication to the Royal Patron, HM the King, continuing the long tradition to the Monarch, himself a champion dinghy sailor in a regional Games in 1967.
Closer to this year’s event “and to be announced at the October press briefing” will be a lot more details about the event. Meantime, Kevin expects some 100 craft and more than 2,000 sailors, managers, supporters and spectators from the private and public sectors to attend.
Further details and all information on this year’s action and fun can be found by e-mail to: Vivaldi (>joseph. [email protected]<; tel. (+66) 027182191; fax (+66) 02718 2135; mob. (+66 085834 5557); Pris Priority (Thai), e-mail >sasivimol@prispriority. com>; tel. (+66) 27127471-3; fax (66) 27127374; mob. (66) 081638 8222 or visit the website: >www.kingscup.com<

Pottsy’s day to shine

PSC Golf from the Outback Golf Bar

Monday, 15 Sept, Burapha
Not everybody wanted to play in the Pattaya Style Ryder Cup, and the Outback Golf Bar must not forget their regular players. Sixteen of them went out in front of the Ryder Cup matches playing from the white tees and A & B.
It was Pottsy’s day to shine and he did in style, with a fantastic 41 points, playing one of his best rounds for sometime. That earned him an immediate handicap cut to 17.2, good game mate! Three behind was Mike O’Brien, two more back to Paul Lavender. The rest of the pack was someway behind but Norm Martin did just enough to pick up fifth place.
There were no 2s today, so the pot will be added to the prize money at Burapha next Monday.
Overall
1st Campbell Potts (19) 41
2nd Mike O’Brien (20) 38
3rd Paul Lavender (15) 36
4th George Robinson (11) 31
5th Norm Martin (26) 31
Wed, 17 Sept, Pattaya Country Club
With the emphasis on the Ryder Cup this week, there were few Outbackers left to try their hand at Pattaya Country Club on Wednesday. Frank O’Neill was the top scorer with 37 points beating Norm Martin in second with 36. Of the remaining players, most preferred to keep their scorecards or dispose of them appropriately, rather than be held accountable about their efforts on the golf course.
There were two 2s coming from Frank O’Neill and Norm Martin.
Fri 19 Sept, Eastern Star
Eastern Star was the alternate Friday course this week and 19 Outbackers made the trip there whilst the Ryder Cup singles were being fought at Siam Plantation.
Norm Martin came out on top with a welcome return to a bit a form for him; 38 points round this course is a good score by anybody’s reckoning. Five behind was his nearest rival, Rob Gandley and one further back was Trudy Chadbourn on 32. Marlene & Brian Prudden’s first game since their return to Thailand a couple of days ago resulted in them both finishing in the winners enclosure, Marlene taking 4th and Brian 6th.
There were no 2s, so in a novel way of distributing the pot it was put in a draw for the non podium winners to share. Great idea Barry!
Overall
1st Norm Martin (26) 38
2nd Rob Gandley (20) 33
3rd Trudy Chadbourn (28) 32
4th Marlene Prudden (24) 32
5th Campbell Potts (18) 31
6th Brian Prudden (19) 30

Mashi Kenata wins with a fine 39 points

PSC Golf from Tropical Bert’s Beach Bar

Tuesday 16 Sept, Emerald (Stableford)
With the rain pouring down day after day some of the courses are becoming waterlogged, but others come through the deluge quite well, so off to Emerald we went.
The course was nearly empty when we got there, and a steady drizzle was in the air, but we went out to play. As we went around, at times the rain got a little harder, but overall the day was very nice, if a little humid. Amazing that even when it rains it can get humid.

The Emerald winner Mashi with one of Bert’s finest.

We could take carts but the fairways were a bit wet and boggy in places, and we could not take carts on them. But the greens were not too bad and were still quite fast. Of course you did not want to go into the rough as it was wet and difficult to get out of.
Round over we sat in the only outdoor restaurant, and the food was in fact quite good. Mick in particular really enjoyed his food, and the value is excellent.
Back at Bert’s we noted that we still had some good scores. In second was Perry McNeely with 37 points, but the winner was that tough competitor Mashi Kenata with a fine 39 points.
Near pins: Badger Bill Knight, Derek Brook and Mashi Kenata.
Long putt: Badger and Anders Pederson.

Monte Sykes wins Kronborg Monthly Mug

PSC Golf from the Cafe Kronborg

Monday 15 Sept. Siam Plantation (Stableford)
The Siam Plantation Course was the host for a Stableford competition in one flight. The course is still in stupendous condition and dry considering the amount of rain that has fallen in the last two weeks.
Monte Sykes won the event on count back over Elias Magnusson in second and Kevin Dinan in third, all with 31 points. Henk De Bock was fourth with 29 points. The course won again and just to remind all, that this is to be the site for the next Members Open.
Thursday 18 Sept, Phoenix (Stroke - Monthly Mug)
This is a competition that usually falls to one of the higher handicaps for one reason or other, but this month with the fairways being so wet and with Phoenix playing so long and difficult, did the low handicappers have a chance at last? Well we shall see.

Bjarne (left) presents the monthly mug to Monte Sykes.

The weather of late has not been kind, and on this day it was overcast and rain was in the air; however, it held off for most of the day, with only the odd outbreak to keep the players cool.
The scribe started with great hopes, but a mishap when he played the wrong ball on the second hole and had a two shot penalty seemed to put paid to his chances, despite soldiering on. Meanwhile, many other players seemed to find the going tough and very good scores were reported.
Back at the Cafe Kronborg as the scores were declared it was seen that the penalty had cost the scribe the Mug, but it was indeed a pleasure to see a 4 handicapper come through and win.
In the A Flight, 0 to 18, the winner was Derek Brook with a net 73 ahead of a count back on net 76 that saw Kris Helgasson in second and Mike Gerrard in third. In the B Flight, the winner was Kevin Dinan with a net 74 ahead of a count back for second that saw P.S. Basi in second and Daryl Evans in third.
So to the winner, and as said it was a pleasure to see a low handicapper come in to win, when Monte Sykes won with a net 72. Well done Monte.

Jomtien club not bothered by a little rain

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday 15 Sept, Green Valley - Stableford
An amazing 32 players out today and we all found the course in an immaculate condition. The comments were probably the best in 2-3 years.

Khao Kheow’s division 1 and 2 winners, Paddy Wilson and Miss Oam.

In the nearest the pins competition, normally there are not eight winners on this course, but this has changed today. Div 1 winners were Ted Morris and Paddy Wilson (3) and in Div 2 William Chang, Jean Morel, Tom Novak and Bryan ‘Gonzales’ Rought.
In the twos there were four rollovers in division 2 plus today’s purse and with only one birdie on the 12th, Tom Novak scooped the maximum prize. An empty alcohol cabinet at home and three nearest the pins today for Paddy Wilson was not good enough for the ex London met police officer as he birdied the 12th to share the division 1 pot with Harry Riley in the twos.
Before their departure back to the UK Simon Kendall won division 1 with 38 points and Ian Wilson topped division 2 with 41 points. Runner up in division 1 was Paddy Wilson on 37 points and Mikael Andersson finished third with 36. The same score earned Dannie Larsen second place in division 2 with Bryan Rought third with 33 points.
At the presentation back at Siam Cats, Simon Kendall donated his first prize into the rollover kitty for the rainbow multiplier at Emerald next week. Many thanks Simon from all of us at Jomtien Golf.
Wednesday 17 Sept, Khao Kheow - Stableford
The wet season is now well and truly established here and with heavy rain overnight in Jomtien the thoughts before our departure were: is it worth the journey? Nonetheless, 18 players arrived and teed off on the B course with intermittent light showers, which continued for the first nine holes.
After the par 5 tenth hole on the C course the incoming clouds became very dark and the rain became more intense, so we all met up in the tea hut on the 14th/16th hole for a 15 minute rain check. We all then continued to finish the round, apart from the last group of 4. This has been our only real rain interrupted delay of the year, if you can call it that.
No rollovers in either division in the twos and there was only one birdie today in the field, as Ben Findon carded a two on the renowned island green.
Andy Oz finished third in division 2 with 23 points, Jean Morel second with 28 and counting the cost as his better half is now in division 1. Miss Oam bounced back after a few bad rounds and won with 30 points. Paddy Wilson won division 1 beating Ted Gardner on a 19/15 back nine count back after they both came in with 31 points. Mam Morel finished third, 1 point behind.
Friday 19 Sept, Eastern Star - Stableford
Yet again there was very heavy rainfall in Jomtien from around 6am until just before 8am prompting a few phone calls to come in asking whether we were going today. We all met at Siam Cats with the exception of one person, and made the journey to Eastern Star. The skies in the distance towards Rayong were very dark, but there was a very bright outlook as 25 players teed off on the first hole.
Still only one temporary green, the 17th, and still only one complaint, the condition of the tee on the par three 13th. Why they never move the position is beyond understanding.
Playing off 12, Tom Sathrum birdied three holes and scored 12 points on his way to a 40 point round to win division 1. Ted Morris thought he had won when he returned to the clubhouse with 38 points. In third place was Paddy Wilson with 32.
Ken Foster beat Miss Oam on a 19/17 back nine count back in division 2 to finish 3rd after they both came in with 29 points. She was not amused, but the smile returned later at the presentation. Jimmy Johnson was back in form, coming in second with 32 points. The winner was Page Thomas with 39 points.
Nearest the pins Div 1 Ted Morris (2), Tom Sathrum and Kevin Walsh. Div 2 Miss Oam and Page Thomas.
A rollover to Royal Lakeside in the twos in division 1, and by now a happy lady took the rollover in division 2 in the twos after her birdie on the 13th. Well done Miss Oam. The ladies tipple was awarded to a certain person relocating from Northern Thailand with his wife and child, and playing his first game with us with a 17 handicap, and, losing 11 balls on the course. Welcome to Jomtien Golf Terry Cowell.
Next week’s fixtures: Mon 29th Plutaluang - Stableford; Wed 1st Green Valley - Monthly Medal; Friday 3rd Eastern Star - Stableford.

Chris Voller wins the double

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

Slow start for Thomas
The Pattaya Golf Society visited Eastern Star on Sunday, 14th September, and found that despite the absence of golf carts, the course was relatively empty.
Consistent Chris Voller came third with 33 points, one behind steady Kazu Agune.
The winner began his round by losing the whole of his handicap after five holes and on the sixth tee literally kicked his own backside to play the next thirteen holes in just one over par. It was an incredible performance by David Thomas, the resolute New Zealand golfer. His 35 points was a result of a gross 78, by far the best of the day.
Chris Voller had the honour of the day’s only birdie two, on the tough thirteenth. There were the usual claims for the Booby Bevy including one from the returning Finnish golfer Hannu Kemilla after a long absence but it went ultimately to Mr Denis for his complete lack of rhythm and poor form after some six weeks in England on his sick-bed. Tough on the boss but thoroughly deserved nevertheless.
Impressive CV
On Tuesday, 16th September, the Pattaya Golf Society revisited Mountain Shadow after an absence of three months and found an empty course in fine condition under brooding skies which led to increasing drizzle throughout the round. Thankfully the group was playing Stableford golf as the greens were running very quick and the damp fairways gave little or no run in the uncomfortable conditions.
It is a course which can bring out the best in a golfer, especially if fairways are found with regularity. David Thomas struggled to match his playing partner on the day and produced 31 points for third place. Bobby Shirkey is an accurate golfer, his tee shots usually finding the short stuff and his higher handicap helped him to 32 points for second place. David’s challenger was Chris Voller and once again he produced quality golf to match his handicap, recording 36 points for an excellent win on the day.
There were three birdie twos with Alan Freeman finding the pot on hole 5, Tony Thorne on hole 8 and the ubiquitous Chris Voller on the seventeenth.
The imminence of high season also saw the return of the Finnish duo Erik Antonnen and soul mate Jorma Liila and the latter picked up his customary Booby Bevy for a haphazard round after a night on the town. Tough course Mountain Shadow.

America defeats Europe 44½ to 32½

Ryder Cup from the Outback Golf Bar

Day 1 Mon 15 Sept - Burapha
The North America Team took an early grip on the Ryder Cup Trophy, thrashing the European side by taking 15 points of the 19 available on Day One. This was a 4 ball better ball format played off three quarters of the difference in handicap, taken from the lowest handicapper in the group.

Bob Philp, John Emmerson, Colin Davis and Jack Moseley hold up the Ryder Cup plaque after America defeated Europe 44 ½ to 32 ½.

Captains John Emmerson (Team North America) and Simon Philbrook (Team Europe) shook hands on the first tee as this three day event got underway.
A team of two and both players drive on every tee, the preferred ball is then chosen and the other ball picked up. The player whose ball has been picked up then plays his partner’s ball as it lies, and alternate shots continue thereafter until the ball is holed out. The pairing with the least number of shots wins the hole, as in any other matchplay format. The handicap allowance is 60% of the handicap of the lower handicapper in each pair added to 40% of his partners. This calculation is done for each pair and the difference between the two pairs is the number of shots received, starting from index one on the scorecard.
Day 2 Wed 17 Sept - Phoenix
The persistent drizzle, more akin to a typical wet day in England or Ireland, perhaps made the European Team feel more at home as they lifted their spirits and proved just how resilient they could be after their first day mauling. Playing the greensomes format on the Mountain and Ocean Nines, they gained their revenge 11 matches to 8 to reduce the difference between the two teams to eight points.
The N. American duo of Marty Allred and Ken McCarthy recorded the biggest win of the day, easily disposing of Scott Greenaway and Keith Buchanan, whilst Eddie Smith and George Bishop staged the biggest fight back after being 5 down with 6 to play against Chris Holmes and Ed Behr to finish all square. Steven Steele and Bill Broschart managed to walk off with a win after both players hit their tee shots into the water on the 9th tee (their 18th in the match) to finish 1 up against Chris Davisson and Barry Chadbourn.
The overall match now stands at N. America 23 to Europe 15, requiring Europe to win 24 matches out of the scheduled 38 in the Friday singles at Siam Plantation, to win the Ryder Cup Trophy.
Day 3 Fri 19 September - Siam Plantation
Well, this was showtime, just how good was the American Team? Could the Europeans haul back the deficit of eight points. 39 single pairings, playing in fourballs had their own challenge to deal with by way of the tricky Sugarcane and Pineapple Nines, aka courses A and C. Many players had never seen the course before, let alone play it; a massive advantage to the opponent.
The Americans, requiring just 16 wins to lift the trophy got off to a fantastic start winning twelve of the first eighteen matches. There was a middle order European revival which gave the team some hope but it was short lived as the American Team, ably assisted by a number of Australians, went on record a 21 ½ to 17 ½ victory on the day, and an overall win of 44 ½ to 32 ½.
Back at the Outback Golf Bar, all were treated to liver and bacon, cottage pie or chilli con carne from the Outback kitchen and staff before John Emmerson, the American team captain accepted the magnificent Ryder Cup plaque from the well known resident PGA Pro Richard Livingston.
Thanks go out to all those concerned with the organisation for the week, Colin Davis (Lewiinski’s), John Emmerson (The Golf Club) and Jack Moseley and Bob Philp from the Outback Golf Bar. A special thanks also to Bob Lindborg who was able to provide the Ryder Cup logo, which was used on the exclusive shirts in conjunction with the logos from the three aforementioned golf venues.
Next year will be the turn of the President’s Cup, the plaque for which has been hanging in The Golf Club for the past year and will now pass on to Lewiinski’s as the Ryder Cup one takes pride of place. Colin, you’ll have to wrestle hard to get that away from John in a year’s time!

Lee Butler doubles in B flight

PSC Golf from the Bunker

Monday 15 Sept, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Paul Smith (2) 36 pts
2nd John Graham (10) 34 pts
3rd David Day (15) 32 pts
B Flight
1st Lee Butler (20) 36 pts
2nd Eddie Martin (18) 30 pts
3rd PJ Redmond (19) 30 pts
Playing Stableford at Mountain Shadow proved to be popular as there was a big turnout and the field was split into two flights with the cut at Handicap 16.

Lee Butler shot a 9 under par at Greenwood.

The scores are never very great at Mountain Shadow because of the abundance of coconut trees and the lightning fast greens; however, today the greens weren’t their usual slick selves and gave everyone a reasonable chance to make putts.
Both flight winners racked up 36 points to win the A flight being a bit tighter than the B flight where we had John Graham only two points behind Paul Smith and only two points ahead of third placed newcomer David Day.
It took a count back to settle second and third places in the B flight PJ losing out to Eddie but Lee Butler was well ahead taking the kitty in the affectionately termed “Diadora League”.
Aussie Scotty Eaton won two of the near pin prizes, John Graham and Glen Cunningham taking the other two.
Wednesday 17th Sept, Greenwood - Medal
A Flight
1st Alan Sullivan (12) 67 net
2nd Roger Privett (15) 68 net
3rd JJ Harney (11) 69 net
B Flight
1st Lee Butler (20) 63 net
2nd Jim Wooler (22) 75 net
3rd “Aussie” Ferdie (23) 76 net
For some reason Greenwood have been messing around with the tee box positions which has been causing a bit of confusion and frustration of late so in the Bunker Bar before setting out it was decided to play a Stableford comp off the back (blue) tees. However, upon arrival at the first tee it was noted that the blue tees were “miles” back, about 50 yards in some cases, so the plan changed again and we began playing a Medal round off the white tees (one position in front of the back tees). Now that seems simple enough until it transpired that the white tees were alongside the yellow tees on every tee box making the course a bit too short to some of the golfer’s liking!
Never mind, this is Thailand (TIT)! Well, another twist in the tail was the constant drizzle that persisted throughout the day which kind of cancelled out the shortness of the holes because there was hardly any run on the ball.
Play got underway and there was some cracking scores on the day with Lee Butler posting the best, his nine under par net 63 stealing the show to win the B Flight. The nearest to him was Jim Wooler who was 12 shots behind and “Aussie Ferdie” nicked third place on a count back from Alex Kilcoyne one further shot back.
Very close in the A Flight with only one shot separating them, Alan Sullivan coming out on top with Roger and JJ coming in second and third respectively. JJ and Alan won one of the near pins along with David Day and Colin Stokes.

Gunnarsson and Howett top Haven leaderboard

IPGC Golf from The Haven

Monday 15 Sept,Green Valley - Stableford
1st Jens Gunnarsson 38
2nd Barry Winton 36
3rd Barry Traynor 34
4th Orathai Winton 34
5th Chris Knapp 33
6th Phil Groves 33
7th Russell Exley 33
A large group set out in high hopes of a rainless day, and was rewarded with an almost dry round at the well maintained Green Valley course.
Jens Gunnarsson continued with his good run of form in the Stableford events with another two under to keep the also in-form Barry Winton from adding to his run of successes by a couple of shots.
Barry Traynor led in Orathai Winton by count back with 17 points to 15 over the back nine. This was another stroke better than the group on 33 points who were led by Chris Knapp with 19 on the back and an excellent 15 on the back six ahead of Phil Groves who had a steady 12 on the inward half. Phil in his turn beat Russell Exley as Russell could manage only 18 on the back nine.
The second division 2’s pool was shared by Rod Howett and Chris Knapp whilst Barry Winton took the first division on his own.
Wednesday 17 Sept, Century Chonburi - Stableford
After traveling one of the longest distances to the course, it was disappointing that the competition had to be abandoned due to the weather. As the rain got heavier, the course became totally unplayable both through the green and not least on the greens where the water refused to soak away. Play was called to a halt after nine holes. A great pity as the course was in great condition and at 100 baht green fee and 200 baht for the caddy was wonderful value with carts costing just 400 baht.
Friday 18 Sept, Emerald - Stableford
1st Rod Howett 35
2nd Derek Holt 34
3rd Norman Isherwood 32
Whilst twelve players were involved in the match against the OK Corral there were still more than enough people wanting to play their regular round out of Soi 13. Although many of the in-form players had been selected for the team it was no easy stroll in the park for Rod Howett, as he had to contend with Derek Holt, who having recently got a taste of the podium wanted a bit more and possibly a little higher up. In the end Rod just held on to win the day by a single shot from Derek with the returning Norman Isherwood taking third place another two strokes behind.
There were no 2s in the first division but once again Chris Knapp slipped one in to take the second division alone.
Before the prize giving The Doc welcomed back Norman Isherwood.

Lumyai Sayoholt wins the week

Eastern Thailand Ladies Golf Club

Eastern Thailand Ladies Golf Club winners and friends.

Thursday, Sept 18,
Pattaya Country Club - 4 Club tournament
Low Gross Lady: Lumyai Sayoholt
1st Low Net: Supos Narasit
2nd Low Net: Napavadee Panyingchareon
Near pins: #5 Lumyai Sayoholt, #12 Punyawut Gale, #16 Lamun Hanley, #18 Dokratin Keeth.
Longest putt #18: Lamun Hanley
Boobee prize: Anusara Trayling
Lowest net guest of honor: Rich Murphy

“Mr Second” no more

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
Decisions, Decisions
When I am compiling my weekly reports for the TRGG it is very often difficult to find something of real interest to write about besides the actual results.

Saturday’s winners: Richard Wakeling, Ted Senior, Alun Webber, Frank Kelly and Rungratree.

It was not so this week. I have been bombarded with so many interesting pieces for the week I am unable to decide which to give priority. So here they are in no particular order.
I am happy to report that Matt Gibbons has finally thrown off his mantle of “Mr Second” with a fine win by a clear six shots (40) at Phoenix on Thursday 18th.
John Dennis took the second division when he also poured in an even higher score of 42 for the win and highest score of the week and five ahead of second placed Alun Webber.
“Wasps” seem to play a large part in the game this week as well.
On Tuesday at St Andrews Fergus Brennan played a shot in to a group of trees and went in search of his ball to find that he had disturbed a nest and that the residents were none too happy and proceeded to attack him leaving him with over twenty stings to arms and legs. So golfers beware!
On Saturday at Eastern Star the winner on the day, Rungratree (who by the way is a caddy at Eastern Star), was also stung on her ankle by a wasp but all it did was put some buzz into her game for a fine win with forty one and four clear of the field.
Billy “the Whiz” Fitzgerald has put out a request that if anybody finds his “Whiz” could they please return it so he can start winning again.
And one last piece of unimportant information: it seems that three players out on Saturday all have the same birthday. Fergus Brennan, Alun Webber and Jim Ledwidge. How is that for a coincidence? So down to the results.
Tuesday 16 Sept, St Andrews/Green Valley, Stableford
Division 1 (0-16)
George Robinson (11) 36 pts
Hugh Byrne (13) 33 pts
Richard Wakeling (13) 32 pts
Fergus Brennan (10) 32 pts
Division 2 (17 up)
Martin Zimmerman (18) 36 pts
Peter Morris (23) 31 pts
Ted Senior (17) 31 pts
Rungratree Chotkasens (20) 30 pts
2’s: Ted Senior
Near Pins: Amphan North (2) Gunnar Vangsnes and Tony Cunningham
First outing this week was to St Andrews on Tuesday Sept. 16. A great turnout of over thirty players. I repeat, the numbers are really on the increase so sign up early please. Martin Zimmerman was on form and won the second division with a great 36 and five clear of second placed Peter Morris who took it on count back from Ted Senior, both at 31. Fourth was Rungratree. Only one two recorded from Ted Senior and the four near pins went to Amphan North (2), Gunnar Vangsnes and Tony Cunningham. I must say that it is great to see Amphan out playing again. We have missed her great smile for too long.
Thursday 18 Sept, Phoenix, Stableford
Division One
Matt Gibbons (14) 40 pts
Richard Wakeling (13) 34 pts
Hugh Byrne (13) 34 pts
Fergus Brennan (10) 33 pts
Division Two
John Dennis (32) 42 pts
Alun Webber (24) 37 pts
Dean Rice (15) 37 pts
Ted Senior (18) 36 pts
2’s: Martin Solberg
Near Pins: Fergus Brennan and Jim Ledwidge
On Thursday the 18th it was again back to one of our regular visits to Phoenix (Mountain and Ocean) and again we had a very good turnout and two divisions 0-14 and 15 up.
Division one saw Matt Gibbons take a fine win with 40 points and throw off his Mr. Second nickname. Richard Wakeling was second with a count back 34 over Hugh Byrne. Fergus was fourth with 33.
In division two John Dennis with the highest score of the week at 42 took the honours. Alun Webber and Dean Rice had to count back at 37 for their respective places with Ted Senior fourth. Just the one two on the day from Martin Solberg. Near pins for Fergus Brennan and Jim Ledwidge.
Saturday 20 Sept, Eastern Star, Stableford
Rungratree Chotkasens (20) 42 pts
Ted Senior (18) 37 pts
Frank Kelly (16) 35 pts
Richard Wakeling (13) 33 pts
Alun Webber (23) 33 pts
2’s: Martin Solberg, Frank Kelly and Pat Robinson
On Saturday the 20th we went to Eastern Star. The weather was kind - no rain delays - but the course was found not to be up to its usual form. Unsure why that was?
However, this did not seem to deter Rungratree who caddies at the course when she is not playing. Despite her skirmish with a wasp at the second hole she fired in a fine 41 points to win and was four clear of second Ted Senior at 37. Frank Kelly (who I understand uses Rungratree as his caddie when she is not playing) was third at 35. Forth and fifth were decided on count back between Richard Wakeling and Alun Webber at 33. Three two’s from Martin Solberg, Frank Kelly and Pat Robinson.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

Boxing is a dangerous sport. Those inside and all sports fans are reminded of that all too often. On July 16 of this year Oscar Diaz (26-23) was fighting for the USBA welterweight tile against Delvin Rodriguez (22-1-1). After the 10th round Diaz crumpled to the canvas in his corner. He was rushed to the hospital where surgery was performed to relieve pressure on the brain. It is a boxing story that usually ends in sadness; however, this incident may yet have a better ending. After over 2 months in a coma Diaz woke up last week and is breathing on his own.
Mosley - Mayorga
Interesting fight card on Sunday morning at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. No title on the line in the feature but the match up between Shane Mosley (44-5) and Ricardo Mayorga (29-6-1) is interesting. Mosley has always seemed to be the ultimate ‘businessman boxer.” He goes into the ring, does the job and leaves. He’s been very good as his two wins over Oscar De La Hoya will attest.
Mosley has also been less than stellar, especially in his two loses to Vernon Forrest and Winky Wright. Since the second loss to Wright, Mosley’s gone on a five fight win streak. That ended his last outing when he lost UD to then undefeated Miguel Angel Cotto.
Ricardo Mayorga is a different “kettle of fish”. In two words, “he’s goofy”. He can be brilliant, as he was in his two wins against Vernon Forrest. There are times when he’s just goofy from drinking prior to a fight to lighting up a victory cigarette in the ring. Since 2003 he’s been on a lose one win one routine. He’s lost to Cory Spinks, Felix Trinidad and Oscar De La Hoya. His wins come against Fernando Vargas, Michele Piccirillo and Eric Mitchell. Probably worth watching.
Berto - Forbes
On the same card Andre Berto (22-0) will make his first defense of the WBC Welterweight title he won by beating Miguel Angel Rodriques in June. The title was vacant at the time. Truthfully Berto’s 22 and nil record really wasn’t built with many name boxers. Berto gets Steve Forbes (33-6) for this initial title defense.
Berto may need a word of caution from TSR. “Forbes can be sneaky good.” When Forbes met de La Hoya in March he looked as good as ever. Forbes is dangerous. He also has opinion’s on the upcoming Oscar-Manny fight. “I think he (Oscar) can still pull the trigger. He still has punching power. I mean, one year ago he fought a split decision against Floyd Mayweather. Nobody has ever done that. He took a year off and then he fought me. It’s not like he took any abuse. He fought more relaxed in the later rounds.”
Reprise…WBC vs. Mississippi Athletic Commission
It’s always good to remember if you’re a boxing fan or one that reports on the sport that “reality” is what someone says it is. The WBC went head to head with the Mississippi Commission over the appointment of officials for WBC sanctioned title fights. In fact the WBC lost. That is reality. Last week the WBC released a letter, portions of which will be reprinted here.
“The Mississippi State Athletic Commission and the WBC worked together in excellent harmony after having had some difficulties due to misunderstandings that were cleared up one day before the show when Jon Lewis, chairman of the MSAC, and I spoke at length to initiate a future amicable agreement of reciprocity and mutual cooperation.”
There were two WBC sanctioned fights on the card in Biloxi. One a world championship fight between Timothy Bradley jr. and Edner Cherry. In that one, to borrow a headline from fightnews, Bradley bombed Cherry. Neither of the WBC suggested judges Tom Kaczmarek and Max de Luca worked that fight. Maybe the two gentleman worked the WBC featherweight title eliminator. Regardless the WBC blinked.
Hurricane Vs. Giardello
Two weeks ago on these pages TSR announced the passing of former middleweight champion Joey Giardello. By happenstance while surfing the TV cables TSR came across the movie “Hurricane” staring Denzel Washington. It was an entertaining movie about the life of boxer Ruben “Hurricane” Carter who was a top middleweight in the early 1960s. In 1966 Carter was convicted of a triple murder in Paterson, New Jersey and sentenced to life in prison. Carter became a ‘cause celebre’ with the usual suspects coming out of the woodwork to claim his innocence. After 20 years and two re trials the judgment was overturned. The movie is based on Carter’s book “The 16th Round”.
One writer opined, “The question of Carter’s actual guilt or innocence remains a strongly polarizing one. However, this much is certain: either the criminal justice system released a triple murderer from punishment, or it wrongfully imprisoned an innocent man for almost 20 years.”
At a recent social outing I shared a beverage and chin wag with noted sportswriter Dave Newhouse who has just completed a book on boxing with a forward by former Oakland Raider’s football coach John Madden. The name Joey Giardello worked its way into the conversation. “I interviewed him for my book,” said Newhouse. “You know he sued the producers of the movie Hurricane?”
In the movie the fight between Carter and WBA/WBC middleweight champion Joey Giardello plays a central part. The fight was held December 14, 1964 at the Convention Hall in Philadelphia. The movie’s fight sequences shows Carter laying a whipping on Giardello. As the 15th round ended Giardello had a busted up face while Carter, as played by Denzel Washington, looked like Denzel Washington. Taking the microphone from above the announcer said, “The winner and still champion Joey Giardello.” With the announcement, in the movie, the hometown Giardello fans booed as all must have known the Carter won.
First that would never happen. Philly fans booing a hometown favorite? Now Philly fans did boo Santa Claus but never Giardello. Secondly the judges scorecards have the fight pretty easily for Giardello at 72-66, 71-66 and 70-67. That was the old 5 point must system with the winner of a round getting 5 points. The movie then jumps to the arrest and trial directly after the fight. Didn’t happen that way. Carter had 15 fights after Giardello, going 7-7-1. The came the conviction.
Jiving with Jeeves
Nice pair of contests coming up on November 1. One of the big upsets last year was the 5th round TKO of Vic Darchinyan by underdog Nonito Donairen. Darchinyan has been clamoring for a rematch but to no avail so far. On November 1 both will be in a title match, but not against each other. Darchinyan (30-1-1) goes after the WBA/WBC/IBF jr. feather title against champ Cristian Mjares (36-3-2). After a nine month layoff Donairen (19-1) takes on South African Moruti Mthalane (22-1) for his IBF fly title.
UK’s next hope for a heavyweight title is David Haye. He’s still looking for someone to fight on November 15 at the 02 Dome on London. After beating Jean Marc Mormeck (KO 7) and Enzo Maccarinelli (TKO 2) for all the Cruiserweight titles, Haye moved up to heavyweight. When he did his claim was “I’ll only fight ranked boxers.” With his heavyweight debut date approaching Haye and his camp are struggling for an opponent. Last week they asked the WBO to rank relic Ray Mercer. Haye’s TV contract with Setanta precludes him fighting anyone not ranked. Mercer is ready. “I’m ready to fight Haye in November. I’ve proven that I’ll fight anyone, anywhere, anytime. I’ve called Haye out twice, but I’ll only have to hit him once.”
The Lord of TSR has given some stick to Joltin Joe Calzaghe for claiming that Kelly Pavlik was ducking him. The Lord of the Manor in fact said that “Calzaghe was telling Porkies.” Kelly, as he prepares for Bernard Hopkins in three weeks, seems to confirm that view. “I don’t know why they keep throwing my name out there. Calzaghe? Never. Calzaghe and his dad keep throwing shots at me for no reason. He has Roy Jones Junior in front of him. The chances of him getting past Roy Jones are very slim. There might not be any talk of me and Calzaghe in the future. If he doesn’t get past Jones, there’s no point in me fighting him.”
Felix Trinidad, like almost everyone else, has an opinion on De la Hoya-Pacquiao. No great philosophy just common sense. “This fight shouldn’t take place. There is too much weight and size difference. Boxing’s credibility is at stake here.”
Thailand results…
Patomchoke Patompothong did the crime, did the time and now is 14-0 with 13 KO’s. He had to go 10 rounds last week for a majority decision over Edgar Gabejan (5-13-2) of the Philippines in Bangkok. Gabejan got a knockdown in the 6th but lost the scoring race 96-95, 97-96, 95-95. Forget hometown cooking, give ’em hometown judging. The press release on the outcomes states, “Gabejan has performed well in tough fights with world rated Fahsung 3KBattery in 2006, Poonsawat Kratingdaengym and Fahsai Sakkreerin in 2008.” He lost them all.
In Yokohama, Napapol Kiatisakchokchai (45-2-1) fought for the WBC interim super-bantam title against Toshioka (32-3-3). The Thai use to have the WBC international super bantam title but it disappeared. Went bye-bye. No “eye deer” why. Now he’s lost the interim title by scores of 117-109 twice and 117-107. Third man in the ring? Why that would be Las Vegas guy Kenny Bayless.
Jeeves time
“Your Lordship. I have prepared your beverage, a premium cigar and the appropriate music so you can gloat like the ‘uncivilized Yank’ you are over the USA’s lucky win in the Ryder Cup.”
“My good Jeeves I have no intention of gloating. Like any true champion we Yanks allow the results to do the talking. Viewing the Ryder Cup on television was the same as watching a great heavyweight title fight. And it lasted three days. Just as boxing is the ultimate man-on-man sport, with apologies to soccer hooligans, the Ryder Cup is more a bar room brawl on a Friday night then a gentleman’s game with ‘tea and watercress sandwiches’ during the break.”
Unlike my pal at the Island Lager Bar in Patong I won’t do a “na-na-na-na” or ever a “neener-neener”. We Yanks are too civilized for such childish behavior. Not only will I accept the win but make note that the European team was playing without the services of longtime members Luke Donald, Darren Clark and Colon Montgomery. On day one as the TV camera scanned the crowd it showed a European fan had brought with him a cardboard cutout of Colon Montgomery. Yank fan booed the cardboard cutout of Montgomery. Not there but not forgotten. Life is good.

McAllister walks it in the rain

PSC Phoenix Golf Tuesday Group (members & guests)

Mike Gerrard
A record turnout for our game today on the Mountain and Ocean course. The mountain nine has only just been re-opened and sadly the greens are not quite up to the standard as the greens on the Ocean nine. However, in time they will improve and then all 3 nines will be active for the high season (if we get one that is).

Neil McAllister (right) enjoys a winners beer with a friend at Toy’s Bar.
With the mountain course the more difficult generally and the weather conditions on the day being very wet with a consistent light rain most of the game, the scoring, in the main was pretty poor. But there is always one exception ain’t there?
As our heading states, McAllister walks it in the rain is no exaggeration. After not scoring any points on the first two holes and again on the last (3 blobs in total) Neil romped home for the first prize with a fantastic 39 points. I have spoken before about Neil improving gradually and he is now slowly mastering his game. However, we all know the bubble will burst one day, as it does for all of us eventually.
Just to prove how inconsistent this game can be, Roger Ison managed second place with 34 points, which was quite respectable considering the conditions of the day. This was after having a horrible game in the PSC Monthly Tournament the Friday before.
With a larger sized group today we decided to have four near pin technical prizes, which were won by Graham Dietrich, Ken Hole (a long lost friend from 10 years ago) and Neil McAllister (2).
Lucky draw went to another newcomer today, Valentino Lutton, which was just how we would have liked our fairy story to end. Not having a handicap yet with the PSC he could only play for technical prizes, and he did not win any of them.
As you can imagine, there was not a lot left for the main prizes, especially after the rest of the field who returned to Toy’s Music Bar were awarded their consolation prize of a first happy hour drink free out of the spoils. Note again: no good any pot hunters coming to our games.
Then we noticed that Roger Ison had not returned to the bar for the presentation, so that left a few baht over which was promptly turned into another couple of lucky draws, Matt Anderson and Graham Dietrich being the recipients.
We said farewell to Lennie Bantleman, who is going back to the Middle East for a short while and we presented him with a comedy video to watch whilst he waited for his return to Fun City.
With Phoenix closed this Friday for a large tournament there will be no Friday Tiger Tee game this week. However, that will resume the following and every subsequent Friday.
If you would like to join in with the fun and games on a Tuesday or a Friday call me on 087 091 7565. Our group is totally affiliated to the PSC and our format is run under their strict guidelines.

Light rain does not daunt Three Sisters

The sky was gray and a persistent light rain was falling as the stalwart gang of Three Sisters players teed off at the Pattaya Country Club on Sep 16th.

Dale Murphy on the left with John Christie on the right.
The rain was light enough not to interfere with play but enough to slow the ball on the greens. While the early birds got most of the drizzle, it tapered off after a few holes and the cloud cover made for almost “cool” playing.
Not surprising were the high finishes. John Christie came in with a big 40 points followed closely by Dale Murphy with 38. The rest of the field dropped sharply from these two with last Friday’s unnamed winner at Emerald dropping to the bottom at Pattaya Country Club today, ahh the fickle gods of golf.
Everyone retired to Caddy Shack II for Sausages provided by Herbie Ishinaga. There was also plenty of cold liquid refreshment on hand.

Jumparnit, Wylie and Gardner win the week

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Pattana, Monday 15 September (white tees) Stableford
Some of us went with East Side Friendly Golf Society to Pattana Golf Resort for the first time for a long time. We are pleased that we visited this splendid venue and shall go there again.

(L to R) Bob Drumm, David Gardner, Willy Nachbur topped the leaderboard at Bangpra on Friday.
The long-playing conditions favored the long-hitting Tiger Jumparnit who took top spot with 35 points whilst yours truly came in second with fewer points than he is prepared to admit to.
The rest of the results got lost somewhere.
Treasure Hill, Wednesday 17 September (white tees) Stableford
Eight of us turned up to play in gentle, mildly enjoyable rain which persisted on and off throughout the round keeping the course well soggy.
Jeff Wylie (6) made the best of the day with 30 points beating Monty Sykes (4) on count back, each claiming one near pin bonus apiece. Bob Drumm (11) came in third with 29 points.
Colin Cronin had a near pin bonus whilst yours truly salvaged something from a terrible day at the office with the longest first putt on the 18th green. The average score was a miserly 25 points.
Bangpra, Friday 19 September (white tees) Stableford
Seven of us correctly ignored the early morning rain to play a round in excellent weather conditions on the course which was groomed for the following week’s major competition for professional golfers.
David Gardner (10) had a bonanza day by winning with 35 points and scooping three near pin bonuses. Bob Drumm (11) was second and Willy Nachbur (23) was third with 35 and 29 points respectively.
The average score was 26 points, which the observant will note was not much better than on Wednesday. It seems that the Silver Fox having pupated as the Ginger Ninja may have completed the metamorphosis appearing now as the Brown Beaver. We shall see!
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know about the group’s format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 0895110575.

THA-EC announces Sports Fest 2008 to be held in Pattaya City

Representatives from member hotels of the Thai Hotels Association-Eastern Chapter at a recent press conference at Dusit Thani Pattaya to announce THA Sports 2008.

The Thai Hotels Association-Eastern Chapter (THA-EC) held a press conference September 17 at Dusit Thani Pattaya to announce the holding of THA Sports 2008 from September 22 - November 2 at the Pattaya Muang 7 Sports Stadium.
Representatives from member hotels will be competing in games such as football, volleyball, athletics, various local sports and cheerleading.
Both opening and closing ceremonies as well as awards presentation will be held on November 2 at the school sports stadium. THA-EC organizes the event every year to promote harmony and camaraderie among its member hotels and to maintain Pattaya’s image as a sports city.

Pattaya Phanaddicts sink US Navy in 3 games

All the happy participants, plus Leo’s cast of lovely ladies.

Darryl “Diego” Wells
On a splendid, sunny Sunday morning, with the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers wafting in the breeze, our Pattaya Phanaddicts challenged our US Navy visitors to a three game softball tournament. The setting could not have been more ideal. Jimmy and his crew had spent the entire weekend cutting, cropping, and dusting the diamond and field areas. Leo, owner of Leo’s Blues Bar on Naklua Road and Soi 18 brought along dogs, burgers, beers, sports drinks, and his entire staff to service (not in that way) the refreshment stand for the tournament.
Even Mother Nature did her part, by clearing away the cloudy skies, and letting the sun do its magic. If you took away the palm trees in the background, it could just have been a typical Sunday at the ball park, playing softball with friends in the summer sun in any North American town.
The US Navy boys and girl (Sam, who was steady at second base, and hit the ball hard all day), were a tough match for our slightly older and pudgier local boys. Their youth, speed, and endurance were huge obstacles that needed to be overcome. The Phanaddicts from Pattaya would have to dig deep if they were to win this 3 game sporting event. So with a worried look in his eye, team captain and pitcher Perry took to the mound, as Jimmy balked out the familiar words, “Play Ball”!
Game 1 started as a tight defensive affair, with neither team able to get a runner around the bases until the 3rd inning. The Navy team struck first in the bottom of the third with hits from their meat of the order (Brown, Mike and Rickard), scoring Rice to move ahead 1-0. Pattaya struck back in the 4th with four runs, but the tough Navy team answered back with three of their own to level the game.
The turning point was in the 6th inning, with teams tied 4-4 and both scheduled to have their top of the order up to bat. Diego managed to hit a solo homer that seemed to pump up the local team, and deflate the visitors. Perry, Mike, Rhys and Rick followed with singles that scored two more runs.
The Navy team could only counter with one run scored by their leadoff man, Pennington. So at the end of the sixth inning it was Pattaya 7 and the US Navy 5.
The last inning showed why this Pattaya team, for the most part balding, overweight and grey, is still a force to be reckoned with. Knowing they needed at least a couple of insurance runs, the boys from Pattaya put on a hitting display. Donny, Peter, Greg, Diego (who hit for the cycle), Rhys, Mick, Scotty and Tom all scored in the top of the 7th to give our boys a 15-5 lead. It was truly a wonderful spectacle to watch, as our boys found holes to hit to, with pinpoint accuracy. The US Navy, to their credit, never gave up, and managed to score two in the bottom of the inning but lost the game 15-7.
Game 2 saw the Navy team seek and find vengeance against the Pattaya old boys. They scored three in the top of the first and led from start to finish. Pattaya scored 4 runs in the last inning through hits from Bill, Jack, Scotty, Mike, Josh and Ron, to make the score respectable but the Navy crew were too tough. The end result was, US Navy 10, Pattaya Sports Club Phanaddicts 7.
Game 3 was the rubber match, but it had to wait until after lunch. Burgers and dogs were served by Leo’s Blues Bar girls, and a few sports drinks and other beverages were also consumed as the fans and players eagerly awaited the final game. The US Navy were now battling the elements as well as the local team, as the sun was turning them all a darker shade of pink. With the last hot dog consumed, it was time again for umpires Jimmy and Lee to scream, “Play Ball” and get on with the finals.
Those Navy boys and girl came off the starting blocks flying, by hitting back to back to back doubles and scoring 4 runs in the top of the first. Pattaya managed to get one back when Diego blooped a Texas leaguer to right field that scored our only Texan on the team, Greg.
Great defense by the Pattaya team stopped the Navy from scoring in the next 4 innings, which gave the Pattaya bats time to warm up. The homeys scored 5 runs in the second, and 5 more in the third, with hot bats from Donny, Peter, Diego, Jack, Joe and Nigel (who have just returned to the squad after several months of being abroad) leading the way.
The Navy team wouldn’t quit though, and they scored one in the sixth, and two in the seventh to make it close. The final score was Pattaya Phanaddicts 12 the US Navy 7.
In the end, the Pattaya Softball mini tournament was a huge success. It wouldn’t have been possible without so much effort by the following people. I would again like to thank our sponsors, the Pattaya Sports Club & Leo’s Blues Bar in Naklua for coming through for us financially and supporting us in many other ways as well. Our president John CF, and his crew of organizers, Tommy, Alan (whose presence was greatly missed by all, get well soon buddy!), Perry & Scotty. Special thanks must also go to Jimmy and his crew of Rocky and Lee, and John CF, as they did an outstanding job of turning our diamond into Pattaya’s own field of dreams.
In closing, I just want to add that our Pattaya softball league will be starting soon, and we are always on the lookout for a few more players. Even if you have little experience playing the game, come on out every Sunday at Jimmy’s field of dreams in Jomtien for an enjoyable afternoon at the ballpark. For more details contact me at [email protected] or call me at 0879943531.

Sunday Softball Beer League ready to be tapped

Darryl “Diego” Wells
After an extremely successful tournament versus the US Navy, the Pattaya Softball Beer League is ready to flow. On Sunday September 28, the inaugural beer league softball season kicks off with Leo’s Blues Bar (Naklua Road and Soi 18) playing against The Golf Club (Soi LK metro, between Soi Diana and Soi Buakao), followed by The Classroom 2 (Soi 2 and Second Road) versus the Pattaya Beer Garden Bar (corner of Beach Road and start of Walking Street, on beach side).
Incredible thanks must go out to our 4 great sponsors, who have ensured that many a good time will be had by all the players. It will no doubt be a great season, but we still are looking for a few good men. We still have vacant spots in the lineup, and any and all softball players are invited to join us. Just contact me at iamwishingwells@ yahoo.com or call me at 0879943531 for more details. Softball is a great way to spend your Sunday afternoons, so come on out and play ball.
To get there, drive south past Lotus Super Center. Take the first left past Greenway Driving Range. “PSC Sunday Softball” sign is posted. Drive 4 km, passing Paradise Villa and Havana Resort. Turn left at Pattaya Sports Flying Club and you will see a sign “PSC Sunday Softball”.

Teams ready for new MBMG International League season

Division One

Paul Frain
Last season’s champions Pattaya City start to defend their title with a home match against last season’s runners up Cosmos on Saturday September 27 at the Horseshoe Point. Kick off is at 4 p.m.
Cosmos who beat City twice last season is one of the favorites to win this season’s League title. Last season Cosmos finished up as the runners-up to City and both teams will be battling to win the championship this season. The match is classed as the clash of the day, and both clubs will want to start with a win.
A team to watch, who will challenge the top two will be the Londoners who finished third in the League. Last season on a couple of matches they played with only nine or ten players that cost them a higher League place.
City will be without their influential skipper Daryl Mann and defense kingpin Brian Wilkins. Also missing will be their cunning midfield coach Alan Mulberry, but all should be available in October. City have been training two nights a week and have had a couple of practice matches at the weekends during the summer and pre season.
All teams in the League play each other three times and with three new teams it should be an interesting season.
Winking Frog Football team have resigned from the league, which is disappointing, but new clubs Anatolia, Les Gaulois and British Club have all joined and should do pretty well. I am sure one or even more of these clubs will spring a surprise this season.
City are again sponsored by AGS Four Winds International Movers, tel. 081 903 9477.
If anybody would like to join in with the training sessions or interested in joining the team, you will be made welcome. For more information please ring Rick on 0817820977.

Pattaya City Fixtures:
27th Sept         Cosmos            Home
11th Oct           Anatolia            Home
18th Oct           Bullshead          Away
25th Oct           Londoner         Home
1st Nov            British Club      Away
15th Nov          Woodstock      Home
22nd Nov         Bangkok Utd     Away
6th Dec            Les Gaulois      Home
13th Dec          Cosmos            Away
10th Jan           Londoner         Away
17th Jan           Anatolia            Home
24th Jan           Bullshead          Home
7th Feb            British Club      Home
14th Feb          Les Gaulois      Home
21st Mar          Cosmos            Away
28th Mar          Londoner         Home
4th April           Anatolia            Away
18thApril          Bullshead          Away
25thApril          British Club      Home
2nd May          Woodstock      Away
9th  May          Bangkok Utd    Away
27th May         Les Gaulois      Away