Local junior rider making his mark with the ‘big boys’

Ben Fortt (No 76) lines up on the grid at the start of the race.

PM Reporters
Last week saw the first race of the new season for the Super Motard motorbikes held at Seacon Square Raceway in Bangkok. The weather was not so kind to the riders on the day with most bikes only equipped with slick tyres and the track being virtually under water. However, with some quick work from track officials, and the sun coming out, it dried very quickly only leaving some treacherous wet patches around certain parts of the course.
Ben Fortt from Pattaya was entered in the international 450cc event with many riders from different nations taking part. Ben was lined up at the front of the grid alongside Colin Robin (Australia), Ryan Brown (U.S.A), Sombat Chaipornpattana (Thailand), and Larry Baker (N. Zealand). The final result saw a win for Ryan Brown from the U.S.A. but Ben, still only 15yrs old, managed to finish in a very creditable fourth place.
Ben still has to gain some experience from competing with these talented riders but is improving with every race. Being the only junior involved in the event it has to be put down as a great achievement and we are all hoping for greater things from him in the future.

United still looking to end goal drought

PM Reporters
Pattaya United fans were left frustrated once more at a packed Nongprue stadium last Sunday as the ‘Dolphins’ once more failed to find the back of their opponents net in a tightly contested 0-0 draw with Samut Songkham FC. This was United’s fifth goaless draw of the season and their current lack of firepower must be starting to become a concern for the coaching staff. The point from this match means that the team remains in the lower half of the table with 12 points from 12 matches but with only 7 goals scored. United’s next fixture is a tough away game against Thai Port FC at the Thai-Japan stadium on Sunday, June 7, kick-off at 4 p.m.

Pattaya United’s Rangsarit Suttisa (No 29) attempts to win the ball from a Samut Songkham forward during the game at the Nongprue stadium last Sunday. The match finished in a 0-0 draw. (Photo/Ariyawat Nuamsawat)

Meanwhile, as Pattaya continue to struggle for goals, high flying Chonburi FC were on the receiving end of a goal barrage against league newcomers Muang Thong United. Playing at home, the ‘Sharks’ from Chonburi seemed to be coasting to another easy victory after taking a 2-0 lead after just 27 minutes with goals from Arthit Sunthornpit and Kone Mohammed, but the visitors hit back to equalize before half time and then went on a second half rampage to finish up 5-2 winners.
In other matches featuring local teams, Sri Racha conceded two late goals to lose 3-2 away at BEC Tero to leave them glued to the bottom of the league standings, but there was better news from down the coast where Navy-Rayong secured a 2-1 victory over Osotspa M-150 with goals from Somjet Sattabut and Suttinun Nontee.
Getting close to the halfway point of the season now, Bangkok Glass head the standings with 26 points from 12 games, closely followed by Muang Thong United in second on 25 and Chonburi FC third on 23, albeit with Chonburi having a game in hand on their rivals.

Bridge in Paradise: An unexpected recovery

Neil Robinson
Imagine you are sitting in your favourite Thai restaurant enjoying a spicy, flavourful curry.  Suddenly you are ambushed by an explosive chili and your mouth is on fire.  You lose all hope that your taste buds will ever live again.  But, gradually (with the aid of a large bottle of Singha) you begin to recover.  More than that, you discover that you have gained from it all - the food actually tastes better after the ordeal.  It is the same with bridge.

For most players, me included, squeezes are difficult to even think of, let alone play for.  However, sometimes you are lucky enough to fall into them.  When they work, the results seem almost miraculous, resurrecting apparently dead contracts and making certain tricks disappear!  This hand was dealt at a table where I was playing, with dealer North and all vulnerable:

                       S: AK95

                       H: K9765

                       D: J6

                       C: 42          

S: 84                                  S: QJ1063

H: 43                                 H: AQJ108

D: 97                                 D: 52

C: J1087653                      C: 9

                       S: 72

                       H: 2

                       D: AKQ10843

                       C: AKQ    

What do you think the contract should be?  6N played by North or 6D by South both work.  Both contracts score seven diamond tricks, three clubs and two spades, losing only the heart ace.  But this was the bidding:

North   East        South     West

1H        1S            2D           P

2N        P              4N           P

5D        P              6N           P

P           Dbl          7D           P

P           Dbl          All pass

In response to 4N (Blackwood), North bid 5D, which shows one ace.  South therefore placed the contract in 6N, to make North declarer and thus protect North’s spade stopper from a lead coming through it.  East doubled, expecting that North would have to try and make at least one trick from his bid suit, and relying on his heart stack.  The double sounded confident to South (even though this confidence was actually misplaced), and he feared that East had running top tricks, possibly in hearts.  Consequently, he pulled to 7D, in spite of the missing ace, in order to limit possible losses and to put West on lead, in the hope that he might lead the wrong suit (whatever that might be!)

West now had to choose a lead.  East’s double was not Lightner (asking for an unusual lead) because the grand slam was not freely bid.  Also, the double of 6N was certainly not Lightner, because the doubler would have been on lead.  Consequently, West led his partner’s suit, spades.  After that lead, would you prefer to be declarer or defence?

It looks like the contract is dead - the heart ace must score for the defence.  In fact however, the contract is now cold, with likely defence.  Watch the heart ace go away!  Declarer won the lead in dummy, ran all the trumps and then ran clubs.  The key is that he knew, from the bidding, that East held the missing high cards.  West kept his only cards of apparent value, the clubs (would you be clever enough to keep the lowly four of hearts - I don’t think I would!)  Dummy discarded one spade and all his low hearts.  This was the situation as the club queen was led:

                        S: A9

                        H: K

                        D: -

                        C: -                

S: -                                          S: QJ

H: -                                         H: A

D: -                                         D: -

C: J108                                   C:-

                        S: 7

                        H: 2

                        D: -

                        C: Q (led)     

West followed suit and dummy threw the heart king, but what is East to do?  He has a choice of ways to commit suicide.  At the table, he threw the spade jack.  Declarer then led to the spade king and took the last trick with the nine.  It would have been more spectacular if East had thrown the heart ace.  Declarer then leads his singleton heart, and takes the critical trick with a two, on the very first round of the suit!  Doubled grand slam made and South, writing plus 2,380 on the score pad, felt much better for his ordeal.  Send me your favourite hands at: [email protected].

Thailand’s ‘Cannonball Run’ finishes at Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya

Elyes Ben Brahim, the Director of Operations of Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya welcomes a Lotus Exige and driver across the finish line of the MunMaak ‘Nitto Coast to Coast Rally’ at the Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya on the evening of May 9. For more details about this fun event for classic car enthusiasts, turn to Automania

Bob comes to the Boyle

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

A heavily overcast Green Valley was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society on Tuesday, May 26, when they played a stableford event.
The field was divided into two flights at sixteen and under and as play got underway it became obvious that only the lucky few would escape a storm later. The humid conditions gave very little carry through the air but the greens remained true.
In the top flight Tony Thorne recorded 32 points for third place just ahead of the storm, playing in the same group as runner-up Dave Stockman. Dave had a schizophrenic round with an unglamorous 45 front nine followed by a splendid gross 35 for the back nine. This gave him a total of 33 points. The flight winner was ever steady Robert Lamond with 35 points.
In the second flight Kazu Agune once again found himself in the frame with a steady 34 points, three behind Pat Murphy who enjoyed some success at long last and his 37 points was a welcome sub-par round. Bob Boyle enjoyed good ball striking all day and his total of 39 points represented his best round with the group.
Bob also shared the 2’s pot in the second flight with Pat Murphy whilst Robert Lamond took sole charge of the top flight award.
The Booby Bevy went to Bob Watson whose round was curtailed after fourteen holes as his group sought refuge from the deluge but at that time he had only amassed eighteen points and was heading for anonymity.
It had been another good day at Green Valley and all but one playing group managed to complete the course before conditions made the course saturated.
Aussies in control at Greenwood
The Pattaya Golf Society took route 331 to Greenwood on Thursday, May 28, to play a strokeplay competition over the B and C nines. Generally the course is in fine condition but on this day the greens were left lacking with the remnants of aeration and more than a few days growth.
The field was divided into two flights at 13 and under. Surprisingly scores held up well with Emiel van der Wiele taking third place in the second flight with level par net 72. He shared the place with Pat Murphy who was having a fine week, proving that hitting hundreds of golf balls everyday certainly works. The runner-up was Joop Medze playing a final round before undergoing more shoulder and neck surgery. His net 71 will be but a memory when he next takes to the tee. The flight winner was Kazu Agune and his net 70 also ended an excellent week for the diminutive Japanese golfer.
In the top flight Aussie Tony Thorne took third place with net 70 and he was usurped by compatriots Stuart Thompson and Phil Knight who shared the lead with impressive rounds of net 68.
There were no birdie 2’s on a day when putting was not easy and Bill Birkett’s gross of ninety-nine off his handicap of thirteen merited nothing other than the Booby Bevy. Maybe next time things will be better?
Thornton’s treat at Green Valley
The PGS golfers visited Green Valley On Saturday, May 30, for their usual weekend stableford event and found the course crowded with players from a commercial society involved in serious competition. The day was to be a long one therefore and thankfully the heavy skies of the morning soon chose to pay a call on Pattaya instead!
The golf was good with the average score almost 32 points and new member Richard Hurley visited more of the course than anyone else in recording 37 points for a share of third place with the in-from Thai golfer Wichai Tananusorn. The winner was Roy Thornton, playing his first individual competition for a few months and his recent doubts about his game were dispelled with a fine return of 39 points.
The highlight of the day was the best gross by Paul McNally, 79, and his back nine of 35 shots heralded a return to the form he was in a year ago when he plundered the course in a medal event. Of course he scored a birdie ‘2’, and of course Chris Voller managed two, and Mikael Andersson joined them in a share of the 2’s pot.
Scottish rookie Don McKinnon returned after a long absence to play what he described as his happiest round in Thailand and the occasion was marked with the Booby Bevy when he returned to Rabbi’s in Soi Buakhao at the height of a sharp shower, ruing the day he had left a sun-kissed Glasgow! You’re right Don, it was certainly a pleasant day at Green Valley.

Duncan dominates at Green Valley

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Neil Duncan
Tuesday, May 26, Treasure Hills - Stableford
Seventeen of us cruised sedately up the 331 making a welcome return to this treasure of a venue. Encouraged not only by the great shape of the course but also by the 380 baht green fee bargain, it will not be long before we return to Treasure Hills again.
Mick Benton (16) won the A Division with 33 points, David Clamp (14) being runner-up with 31 points and F/O Mike King (10) barrel rolled into third spot with 30 points.
David Johnson (23) won the B Division with 35 points; Rob Gandley (21) was runner-up with 31 points and Willy Nachbur (20) demonstraed that a two shot handicap reduction is no bar to the winners’ circle coming in third with 30 points.
Two near pin bonuses were claimed by Daniel King (Mike’s youngest son) and one each by David Johnson and Mick Benton, the latter also scooping the longest putt on the 18th green.
The average score for the day was 27.8 points, reflecting not only the length of the course but also the effects of an eighty minute lightning and rain disruption to play.
Thursday, May 28, Green Valley - Stableford
Green Valley’s single person per cart rule, illnesses, weather worries and personality conflicts contrived to hack the group down to just six this day. Three less than this number and the group will need to consider either recruiting or disbanding.
Yours truly continued with his run of handicap-reducing good form and banged together 39 points, incorporating three 3-putt and one 4-putt yippers! Bob Drumm was runner-up with 36 points.
The technical bonuses were fairly evenly distributed. The average score of 33.5 points reflects that the greens keeper had the white markers well forward although in fairness there was little or no run on the ball.
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.

Glen rides high

May Diana Seniors and Lady’s Open

The last Thursday of the month saw 24 players arrive at Pattaya Country Club to play in the Diana Seniors and Ladies Open – many taking advantage of the deal that the course has for all players over 50.

Nigel, Su and Glen with their prizes from the May Diana Seniors and Lady’s Open.

The weather was near perfect with just 5 minutes of rain, no sun and not too hot. The course – which was quiet – was being prepared for a forthcoming junior tournament and was in reasonable condition.
It was ‘same again’ for the Ladies with Su Murphy (26) winning for the second consecutive month with 33 points, while the runner up jus a shot back was Pimusa Tonkhoksoong (14) with 32.
In the Seniors (50-65) Glen Riding (27) showed the rest of the field a clean pair of heels with 42 points, leaving runner up Bengt Borg (13) some three points adrift on 39.
For the Super Seniors (65+) 35 points was the best - scored by organizer Nigel Cannon (21) and his good friend Alan Pearce (19) – with Nigel winning on count back.
All scores are reported to PSC.
The next competition will be on Thursday June 25 at Pattaya Country Club with tee time 09:00. Sign up sheets are at Diana Driving Range and Green Bottle on 2nd Road.
Near Pins: #5 Herb Schweiterman, #7 Rich Murphy, #12 Alan Pearce, #17 Glen Riding
Long Putts: #9 Patrice Bardy, #18 Nigel Cannon

No flies on Sus as he makes his mark on the trophy

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

The clouds spit a few drops on the way to the Pattaya Country Club but that was about it. It was cloudy most of the day but the sun made its presence felt on the back nine.

Winner Sus Ige (left) with runner up Michael Fischer.

The course was in reasonably good shape but the flies were so bad on the front nine that they really influenced the shooting. It is tough to concentrate on your downswing when a fly lands on your nose or goes into your ear. They were not so bad on the back nine but next week we are going to issue fly swatters to all players. Hopefully this will not count as an extra club in the bag.
This being the last meeting of the month meant it was trophy engraving time. Cards were tallied back at Caddy Shack II and no stranger to the front of the line, Sus Ige came in with an impressive 41 for first place. Martin Fischer, from Down Under, came in with a 36 despite constant verbal interruptions from two of his group cursing the flies.
Herbie Ishinaga provided some delicious ham sandwich material along with other snacks that were enjoyed by all. A friendly lovely lassie was on hand to serve a variety of beverages to the thirsty players.

Russell Finch at last

Hardy souls triumph at Crystal Bay

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Monday, May 25, Phoenix - Stableford
A trip to our closest venue of Phoenix Country Club started the week off for The Caddyshack golfers and this course is probably in the best condition it could be.
The weather was very hot with no breeze, the format for the day was to be stableford, and the competition was very close, with a battle being fought between more than a few of the golfers.

Archie Armstrong put in a sterling performance in the matchplay fixture against Ankor House.

Coming in fourth place was Roger Ribbins with 35 points, but the real battle was between the top three golfers who could only be separated by count back as they all amassed 36 points each. In third was Arch Armstrong, second came Don Wilson, and the eventual winner was Juenu Gill.
Wednesday, May 27, Crystal Bay - Stableford
Today was a trip North to Crystal Bay, the conditions were hampered with bad weather yet again with heavy rain and storms, and a few of the field did not finish their rounds. It was therefore left wide open for the die hard golfers to claim the prizes.
In third place was Juenu Gill with 30 points, second went to Graham Beaumont with 32 points, and the eventual winner was Roger Moore with 34 points.
Friday, May 29, Green Valley - Matchplay
Today was a big day for The Caddyshack with their league matchplay game against Ankor House. The Caddyshack were sitting just above their opponents on top of the league and the course selected was the Caddyshack’s home venue of Green Valley.
Ankor House announced a very strong team of ten including two players with single 1 handicaps; indeed their highest handicapper was only 17.
The Caddyshack could not match their opponents on the day but put up a very gallant effort with Archie Armstrong and Jeff North beating the two top players from Ankor House. Other notable wins went to Graham Beaumont and Ted Gardner.
The eventual score was a win for Ankor House by 5½ to 4½, with a few of the games only decided on the last. This result now leaves both teams level at the top.
In addition to the matchplay event there was also a stableford competition running for the rest of the players from The Caddyshack. Coming in third place was Alan Beck with 34 points, but beating him on count back was Ian Harte who claimed second. The winner of the stableford event meanwhile was Don Wilson with a very nice 37 points.
All the golfers returned to The Caddyshack and enjoyed some complimentary food.

Hart retains ‘top golfer’ title

PSC golf from The Bunker

Monday, May 25, Green Valley - Medal
Unusually there was only a single flight for today’s game at Green Valley and, playing a Medal round, John McDonald celebrated his return to Thailand with a win by shooting 3 under par to just edge out fellow Aussie Tony Robbins by one shot. William Macey took third place a couple of shots back and Peter Habgood came fourth one further shot behind William.
1st John McDonald (10) net 69
2nd Tony Robbins (13) net 70
3rd William Macey (13) net 72
4th Peter Habgood (18) net 73
Near Pins: PJ Redmond, Dave Dolle and William (2).
Wednesday, May 27, Phoenix - Stableford
The golfer of the month competition for May is heading for a close finish with Geoff Hart narrowly leading the field, but Geoff Parker and William Macey are hot on his heels only a couple of points behind so today’s results were crucial.

Geoff Hart (right), The Bunker ‘golfer of the month’ for April and May.

Geoff Hart won the B Flight to stay ahead but William won the A Flight and Geoff Parker came third to keep up the pressure going into the last game of the month at Crystal Bay on Friday. William only just won the A Flight however, beating second place Harvey Samuel on a count back. Geoff Hart won the B Flight quite comfortably two points ahead of runner up Brian Ferrigno, who also needed a count back to beat Graeme Preston, both finishing with 35 points.
A Flight
1st William Macey (13) 35pts
2nd Harvey Samuel (17) 35pts
3rd Geoff Parker (16) 34pts
B Flight
1st Geoff Hart (21) 37pts
2nd Brian Ferrigno (23) 35pts
3rd Graeme Preston (25) 35pts
Near Pins: Geoff Cox (2), Ian Hart and William.
Friday, May 29, Crystal Bay - Medal
There was only a single flight today so Geoff Hart, William and Geoff Parker had more of a chance to get in the points as all three of them were in with a shout for the golfer of the month title.
As it turned out neither Geoff Hart nor Willam could get on the winner’s podium (maybe the pressure was too much) and only Geoff Parker made a fight of it. But Geoff couldn’t get the maximum points required and he had to settle for second place, losing on a count back to John King after both returned level par rounds.
So Geoff Hart won the golfer of the month competition at The Bunker for the second month running - congratulations Geoff! Third place today went to Alan Sullivan with a one over par round.
1st John King (16) net 72
2nd Geoff Parker (16) net 72
3rd Alan Sullivan (11) net 73.
Near Pins: William, Koji and Gerry Cooney (2).

The scribe takes it on count back

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Book
Monday, May 25, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Treasure Hill Golf and Country Club was host to a stableford competition in two flights with the cut at handicap 16. The day was very hot and the course was in excellent condition with all hazards now being staked. We were joined today by a contingent from the Goslin Golf Club from Perth.

Thursday winner Derek, doing his imitation (unconsciously) of Eric Morecambe.

Garry Crolla won the A Flight with 37 points ahead of Monte Sykes in second with 36 points and Peter Blackburn in third with 35. In the B Flight the winner was Wayne Harman with 37 points, with John Hemmingsen coming in second on 36 points and Joe Santos in third with 35 points.
Thursday, May 28, Plutaluang E & N – Stableford
This was quite a surprise to play these two nines together, as of late it has been as per the ‘card’ North and South or the other two points of the compass. You immediately think the day is not going to be normal and so it proved.
The last time I played here we played N & S, and I remember thinking, and saying, that the course was in the best condition I have ever seen it. Well it is amazing what a couple of weeks can do, or constant downpours. Although to me the major problem was a hard ground and long rough. I am used to noting the quality of rough on any course, spending so much time there, and it has got harder here.
The day was tough and a strong wind did not help. The greens that were due a haircut tended to fray the nerves and of course there was ‘that’ rough. I really wonder how I won. I can only put it down to Yorkshire grit or something that rhymes with it.
Of course the best thing about the day, apart from the hot showers, was beating Walter on count back. The day did have some compensations, which incidentally these days include fine food in the restaurant and I noticed all the players tucked in.
So the winner was yours truly, Derek Brook, with 35 points on count back over Walter Baechli in second. In third was Phillip Berre, hopefully fully recovered from his illness of late, with 34 points and in fourth was Per Olaf Baarl with 33 points.
All in all I think I had a pretty good day. Thanks Walter. T.T.F.N.

The Chairman feels at home on the podium

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Derek Brook &
Dick Warburg
Tuesday, May 26, Greenwood – Stableford
The day had started out so well - we met in Bert’s at the normal time and we had a nice sized but small group. Many took advantage of Bert’s special breakfast and this being the last Tuesday of the month, all were told how they stood in the Alan Bolton Golfer of the Month Competition. Then it was into the cars and up the road to Greenwood.

Friday’s winners (left-right): John Swanson, Per Olan Baarli, and Perry McNeely.

On the way we had a few drops of rain, but nothing special, and on arrival the weather looked great, a little overcast with low wind, but all in all quite pleasant. At the start we were told we would be playing the C & B in that order and we were soon away.
The C Nine was in great condition and was a pleasure to play and, as could be seen by the cards, nearly all the players had great outward scores. Things went fine as we went onto the back nine and for the first few holes all seemed well, and then the screech of the siren blasted out. Now I have been here a few years, and played a few rounds but I have never actually heard a siren, so it was a big surprise, and we were not really sure what it was for as the sky appeared to be reasonable. However, being ever cautious we headed for the rest stop, to be followed by the groups behind. It got quite cosy.
The sky darkened and the rain came down, but not bad, however all around the lightning struck. Being optimists we stuck it out and even a couple of times ventured onto the tee before finally deciding to call it a day. The caddies said the storm was just going around.
Just as we decided to call it a day, a couple of vehicles arrived from the clubhouse along with driving rain. The drive back was quite exciting in the rain with the sky noisy and the at times bright. The first time in all the years here that play was stopped by lightning.
The hot showers were indeed very welcome and it was soon time to depart, however not without another first. The rain had brought out a rather large gecko, and Tom being an ex marine, and rather brave, went over to talk to it. It did not run away but insisted on showing a lot of aggression and not backing off one inch. We left with the Thai staff delighted with this oddity.
Back at Bert’s we decided to leave the Alan Bolton ‘golfer of the month’ award until the following week and call the results of the day on the first nine. I would now like to commiserate with Stan Dare who shot 19 points on the first nine and was having the round of the year; however he was not even in the first six.
So winner on the day was Frank Pilkington with 23 points ahead of a count back on 22 points that saw Perry McNeely in second and Charlie Sheppard in third. Commiserations go to Charlie who had 32 points after 13 holes and was probably heading for a win. But you have to have a friend upstairs and Perry does. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Frank Pilkington, Tom Cotton (6 inches), Darryl Evans.
Friday, May 29, Pleasant Valley - Stableford
After four weeks with no Friday golf from Tropical Bert’s, two holidays, a rain out, and the PSC Members Open, it was nice to see 10 golfers show up to tackle the demanding Pleasant Valley course.
The course was not busy and with the vouchers making booking in a breeze, we were off and completed the round in a little over 4 hours with no waiting time. A threatening thunder cloud loomed large for a bit, but quickly moved off to the northeast and play continued in breezy conditions but without a drop of rain. Other than some patchy grass replacement on some greens, the course was in fine condition even with all the recent rain.
After a quick drive back to Bert’s due to light early Friday afternoon traffic, we sat down to refreshments with chicken wings and sandwiches and got on to the prize giving.
With the wet and breezy conditions the scores were a bit lower than usual for this course but respectable none the less with the Chairman, Perry McNeely taking the honors with 33 points ahead of Per Olan Baarli in second on 32 and John Swanson, also on 32, in third..
Courses are booked for Fridays through June and we look forward to meeting all those who would like to play with us.
Near Pins: Per Olan Baarli, John Swanson, Dick Warberg, Perry McNeely

Terry purrs after first win

PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, May 26, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
Our first game of the week saw us take the short journey to Pattaya Country Club, where the recent rain had done wonders for the course, greening it up no end. The fairways were well grassed, with the greens firm, as opposed to rock like when the course wants for water.

Terry Phur (left) is congratulated by Jeff following his first win.

Recording his first win at Mulligans Lakeside was Terry Phur (16) with a well composed 38 points, closely followed by Jeff Wylie (8) with 36, while third and fourth spots went to Dave Edwards and John Chapman respectively.
The technical prizes were split between John C, Jeff and Nobby.
Thursday, May 28, Mountain Shadow - Stableford
Thursday we travelled north to test our skills at Mountain Shadow, playing off the blue tees (same as elsewhere’s whites) where we found the course in good condition, with greens putting well. Always a test here, with tree lined fairways where a poor shot gets punished, it was always going to be tough.
Breaking the Hiskett’s stranglehold on Thursday competitions was Jeff Wylie (8) who shot a steady, if unspectacular 34 points. Emphasising the difficulties encountered was the gap to second place, won by newcomer Rob Gandley (21) with 27 points.
The technical prizes were secured by Jim, Jeff and Nobby; Jim hitting a spectacular shot with Driver on 17th, well done Jimmy.
NOTE: Mulligans Lakeside, out on the shores of Lake Mabprachan hosts golf on Tuesday & Thursday, usually teeing off between 10am & 10:30am. We try and avail ourselves of the PSC negotiated vouchers or Sport Days offered by various clubs in the current Low Season, with no prize pool skimming on “Administration Fees”. For details on scheduling etc, call Jeff on 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088. Cheers & Good Golfing!

Fisher produces sparkling round at Royal Lakeside

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column
Monday, May 25, Burapha - Stableford
Twenty-four Outbackers were joined by nine more golfers from the German Swiss Golf Club to play in a friendly matchplay event: simply one team member’s stableford score against his opponent’s, enabling both players to comfortably play in an individual event at the same time.

Jack (left) with Monday’s Div C & Div A winners, Frank O’Neill & Thomas Kassemeier.

Playing the A & B nines from the blues by special request, the Outback constituted more than half the scheduled bookings, as the courses continue to experience the acute shortage of golfers.
The result of the close match was a win for the Outback, 5 to 4, with two key matches between General Jack & Uwe Wegner (32 points each) and Ray Dell & Helmut Wolf (31 points each), both being halved.
Thomas Kassemeier (German Swiss Golf Club) recorded one of the two best scores of the day to win Div A with 36 points; the other 36 coming from Frank O’Neill, who won Div C. Tony McDonough, who arrived literally straight from Aus at about 6am without any sleep, decided to play at the last minute and found himself in a count back for the top spot in Div B, but just missing out to Outback regular, Bob Lindborg, both with 35 points.
There were just two ‘2’s today from Kevin Moraghan & Ray Dell
Div A (0-12)
1st Thomas Kassemeier (11) 36pts
2nd Alan Pilkington (9) 33pts
3rd Jack Moseley (11) 32pts
Div B (13-16)
1st Bob Lindborg (15) 35pts
2nd Tony McDonough (13) 35pts
3rd Kevin Moraghan (16) 34pts
Div C (17+)
1st Frank O’Neill (17) 36pts
2nd Chris Dopp (19) 32pts
3rd Helmut Wolf (18) 31pts
Tuesday, May 26, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
Fourteeen Outbackers made the short trip to Pattaya Country Club for their usual Tuesday game. The weather was perfect and the course not busy and in fair condition so it was a good day!
It seemed that the scores were going to be mediocre until ‘The Colonel’ aka Bob Pearce (14) came in with a big smile and 41 points (23 on the back - a gross 38!) Well done our Bob.
Some 5 shots behind was the day’s organiser, ‘Chad’, Barry Chadbourn (19) with 36 points. There were three 33’s, settled as usual by count back, with Nigel Cannon (21) taking third and Frank O’Neill (17) just beating Alan Pearce (19) on the last three holes.
There were no ‘2’s so, as is customary, the pot was added back to the prize fund.
1st Bob Pearce (14) 41pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (19) 36pts
3rd Nigel Cannon (21) 33pts
4th Frank O’Neill (17) 33pts
5th Alan Pearce (19) 33pts
Wednesday, May 28, Green Valley - Stableford
Twelve Outbackers played at the regular Thursday Green Valley venue and one of them produced an extremely good round of golf; the remainder, headed by Joachim with 35 points, were some eight points adrift. Mike Tilley fired 43 points to win the day and find himself on a new handicap of 18 for Friday at Royal Lakeside. Third place went to Alan Bishop on 34.
‘Stunning’ John Lawton’s purple patch, which has seen his handicap come down five shots since March, may have come to an end, following his 29 on Tuesday with only 27 today.
There was just one ‘2’ from Outbacker newbie, Brad Driffell.
1st Mike Tilley (20) 43pts
2nd Joachim Oestreicher (25) 35pts
3rd Alan Bishop (16) 34pts
Friday, May 29, Royal Lakeside - Stableford
It was 23 Outbackers that made the fifty minute journey to the delightful Royal Lakeside on what turned out to be a perfect day, weather wise, for golf.
We were greeted by a group of smiling caddies who were happy to know they would be working, since we appeared to be the only ones there. The course was in its usual fine condition with speedy greens.
With our group today were a number of friends passing through; including Rod Woodriffe, who arrived a couple of days ago and today celebrated his 34th birthday. He had been met at the airport by the Outback’s very own taxi driver, Rang, who also played golf with us, before taking Wayne Harman back to the airport. Mike Tilley, here for just ten days from the UK, was with us again and continued his run of form having already been cut two shots.
There are days when there is good golf and good fun - this was one of those days with all six winners beating their handicap and plenty of banter from wagers being played on the course.
We had two divisions today and the round of the day, the week, or the month, came from regular visitor to the Outback from Hong Kong , Mark Fisher (3) with 42 points and a gross of 69 – great golf Mark. Back at the bar Mark rang the bell. Thanks mate! Runner-up was regular player Paul Greenaway (10) with 38, and just one behind with 37 was Capt Bob (5).
In Division 2 it was Wayne Harman (17) with 39 points and a little beer money to take back to Australia, while the runner up was Mike Tilley (18) with 37 after beating B2, Bruce McAdam (19) on count back.
There were just two 2’s today from Mike Tilley and Bruce McAdam.
We shall be returning to this great course very soon.
Div A (0-15)
1st Mark Fisher (3) 42pts
2nd Paul Greenaway (10) 38pts
3rd Bob Philp (5) 37pts
Div B (16+)
1st Wayne Harman (17) 39pts
2nd Tilley Mike (18) 37pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 37pts
NOTE: If you played this course, the Outback would like you to comment on our forum, outbackchat – topic, “course reviews”, which can be found on our website, www.outbackgolfbar.com. This would help others as to the current condition of the courses in the area. For example: value for money (green fee & cart etc), pace of play, condition of the fairways, condition of the greens, caddies, and drink stops & restaurant. Even if you played a different course, please send in your review for all to read. The more the merrier.
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.

Hardy and Kings have it tied up at Pattana

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

Monday, May 25, Pattana – Stableford
An exodus of members returning to work in Africa, the Middle East and the Far East resulted in only 21 players out today at this much appreciated course.
As with two weeks ago here, the clouds seem to bubble up but luckily enough there was no rain today. The B course was closed so we played the A and C nines and there were no hold ups whatsoever as it was deserted.
Chris Hardy’s 37 points won division 1, ahead of Kari Aarnio who took second from Andy Oz on a 20/12 back nine count back after they both came in with 33 points. Andy was in his last game with us for 3 months before his cruise around the Med and a return down under.
The same score of 37 points also gave Richard Kings first place in division 2, with Evan Millar taking second on a 17/13 count back over Bryan Rought after they both finished with 34 points.
There were no 2’s in division 2 today so a double rollover ensued to Green Valley on Wednesday. Ben Findon birdied the 8th on the A course and Kari Aarnio the 7th on the C course to share the pot in the first division.
Wednesday, May 27, Green Valley – Stableford
There were fourteen pairs out today in our fun game of the month, a two person multiplier as well as the normal two divisional stableford game. It was a prompt 10am tee off for the first players but as the seventh group left the tee the clouds started to thicken in the distance. Just as the second group arrived at the drink station on the fifth tee the heavens really opened and as there was a delay of more than 1 hour we decided to cancel the game for the day.
Friday, May 29, Eastern Star – Stableford
There was blue sky and few clouds as we approached the course but the forecast was for another wet day. However we brought the luck with us from Jomtien and we all got round in perfect weather conditions.
Still in form Tom Sathrum won division 1 with 36 points from Terry Cowell in second on 28. Jim Lane was first in division 2 with 35 points ahead of Miss Nom in second on 31. There were no 2’s in either division.

Alan the Bridesmaid - not the Bride

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
We had three different winners this week on our three outings but one man, despite all his best efforts, just could not make a top spot. I am referring to one of our regulars Alan Evans who took second place both at Emerald on Tuesday and again at Green Valley on Saturday. Good try Alan, keep it up.
With the attendances taking a downturn at this time of the year we have reverted back to just three outings a week so no play on Mondays.
Tuesday, May 26, The Emerald – Stableford
1st Peter Morris (23) 39pts
2nd Alan Evans (26) 33pts
3rd Ray Trembath (9) 33pts
We had a good following in our return to the Emerald on May 26, a venue we have not played in quite some time. I have it reported that the course was in top form and that most in attendance really enjoyed themselves.

Saturday’s winners: Alan Evans, Michael Moreton and Eddie Townsend.

Peter Morris found some real form on the day; he has been there or there abouts on several times of late so nice to see him take the win with a fine score of thirty-nine points and a full six clear of his rivals. Second and third was decided after count back between Alan Evans and Ray Trembath (nice to see you back playing with us again Ray) both at thirty-three with Alan taking it with a back nine of twenty over Ray’s eighteen.
There were two ‘2’s from Fergus Brennan and Larry Bland.
Thursday, May 28, Phoenix (Mountain & Lake) – Stableford
1st Brian Holmes (15) 39pts
2nd Fergus Brennan (9) 38pts
3rd Frank Kelly (13) 37pts
Yes another of our regular outings to Phoenix and we only had a small turnout but some quality players. It was close at the top with just a single point taking it when Brian Holmes at thirty-nine just pipped the boss Fergus Brennan at thirty-eight, with Frank Kelly taking the third spot on thirty-seven.
Fergus had some consolation though by having the ‘2’s all to himself.
Saturday, May 30, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Eddie Townsend (15) 37pts
2nd Alan Evans (26) 36pts
3rd Frank Kelly (13) 35pts
4th Michael Moreton (24) 35pts
Saturday was another trip to our regular weekend venue of Green Valley and the last for May. Isn’t this year going quickly? The weather behaved itself again thank goodness - you can never be sure these days can you - and the numbers attending were good.
The day however was blighted for the boss Fergus before he had even taken a single stroke when something flew into his eye leaving him in serious pain, but this didn’t stop him altogether as he played on but it obviously affected his normal game.
This was not so for steady Eddie Townsend who took the top honours with a thirty-seven pointer, just the one up on Alan Evans (his second runner-up place of the week) at thirty-six. Frank Kelly (no photo sorry Frank you have to come to the presentations) took third after count back over Michael Moreton, both with thirty-five.
Just the one ‘2’ on the day and that belonged to Phil Knight (good to see him out with us again).

Jack’s not a spent force

IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, May 17, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Jack Spencer (8) 40pts
2nd Tom Byrne (14) 40pts
3rd C b Thomsen (10) 38pts
B Flight
1ST Tom Byrne (14) 39pts
2nd Jim Munns (12) 37pts
3rd Vic Hestor (12) 36pts
C Flight
1st Gabriel Enright (22) 39pts
2nd Doug Campbell (19) 38pts
3rd Eddie Beilby (15) 38pts
Near Pins: #2 Jack Spencer, #9 Christy Knight, #12 Jimmy Day, #16 Christy Knight
2’s: eight

Sunday winner Jack Spencer (left) with Lewiinski’s golf manager Bob Newell.

As the title to this week’s missive suggests, Green Valley saw the Lieutenant Colonel Jack “Bilko” Spencer return to form with a bang. Leading from the front, Jack returned a super 40 points to win A Flight and man of the match honours, but it needed a count back verdict over Co. Laois favourite Leprechaun, Tom Byrne. The win however was a pyrrhic victory as “Giza fag” Grout was absent. C B Thomsen filled the flight with an impressive 38 points.
Gabriel Enright took the B Flight glory with a splendid 39 points. Dougie Campbell followed Gabriel home a shot adrift, after gaining a count back win over Eddie the captain.
Tuesday, May 16, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Kevin Hamilton (19) 40pts
2nd Justin Fowlis (13) 39pts
3rd Matt Doyle (15) 38pts
A visit to the Thai Takenaka designed Crystal Bay is always a pleasure for the Lewiinski’s mob. Big Kevin Hamilton made the most of the visit to record the day’s top score, an excellent 40 points. Justin Fowlis, Ray’s brother, took second place a shot behind leaving Matt Doyle to round out the flight, after a count back over the unlucky Michael Healy. Michael did however grab a share of the 2’s pot, along with Big Kevin Mcentee and Justin Fowlis.
Wednesday, May 27, Pattana - Stableford
A Flight
1st Kevin Mcentee (7) 31pts
2nd Vic Hestor (12) 31pts
3rd Seamus Cotter (11) 30pts
B Flight
1st Chas Sheppard (16) 33pts
2nd Nok Sompon (25) 33pts
3rd Mick Folan (15) 32pts
The Lewinski’s mob arrived at the Pattana course in the middle of a thunder storm, and found the course nearly waterlogged. But they went to play golf and a drop of water was not to be problem, especially for a Sheppard. Chas led the field home with a best of the day 33 points, after the dreaded count back over the unfortunate Nok Sompon. Mick Folan also needed a count back decision to fill out the flight over Matt Doyle.
The scores were poorer still in the senior flight, with the in form Co. Offaly’s Kevin Mcentee needing a count back to relegate Vic Hestor into second place with a mere 31 points. Seamus Cotter, C. Cork’s over the hill jockey, also got a count back verdict over Liverpool’s Justin Fowlis.
Kevin Mcentee and Nok Sompon split the ‘2’s pot.
Back at the ranch it was party time as every one of the Lewiinski’s gang wished “Rocky” Ring a happy 79th birthday.
Friday, May 29, Plutaluang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Nick Payne (13) 38pts
2nd John Haugen (9) 38pts
B Flight
1st Nok Sompon (25) 35pts
2nd Peter Henshaw (24) 33pts
No Payne no gain or so the saying goes. Nicky two gloves’ 39-point haul was just enough to win the senior flight from John Haugen, as Seamus VC came up a shot adrift to claim second place on the podium. That man Kevin Mcentee was again on the fringe, posting a fine 37 points.
Nok Sompon, Vic’s better half, garnered 35 points to win the junior flight, and buy the baby a new bonnet. Dirk Fleenor, the Admirals best mate, jumped at the chance to play the Navy course and his 33 points gave him second on a count back over Martin Solberg.
Big Kevin Mcentee and “A Bleedin Dub” Ian Henshaw shared the ‘2’s pot. Kevin how long you here for?
I heard it on the Wireless
Brian’s definition of a ‘Gimme’: A ‘Gimme’ can be best defined as an agreement between two golfers - neither of whom can putt very well.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in, and add your name to the list or call Bob on 080 096 8232. Transport is provided.

Café Kronborg and Jack Tar close in on league leaders

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Tum, La, Mai, Te, Wade, Nok & Sue.

Sala Thai Restaurant is down to a one point lead after splitting their match with Canada with each team getting two points. Tue Amphanon bowled a 203 game and 536 series for Sala Thai and Ooy Pluemkamon rolled a 528 for Canada.
Café Kronborg moved up two places into second place after they took three points from Brother D. Sue Murphy bowled a 211 game and 543 series to lead Café Kronborg and Wade (New Balls) Meyers led Brother D with a 201 game and 526.
Mai Munsitha bowled games of 203, 202 and 166, 571 series, to lead Jack Tar to a four point sweep over Bavaria and Jack Tar moved up from sixth to third place. Antero Ronkainen had a 515 series for Bavaria.
Sabai Sabai Friday continued their hot streak as they took three points from Green Chilli. Nok Kennedy led her team with games of 221, 180 and 200 for a 601 series.
Swethai won four points from Indiana behind Graham’s 560 pin total with La Montgomery getting a 542 for Indiana.