Phuket juniors set their sights on TOG Regatta

The 9 junior sailors from Phuket have their dreams set
on competing in the TOG Regatta next month.

James Goyder
Seven disadvantaged children from the Phuket Sunshine Village Foundation are hoping to be given the opportunity to compete in the Thailand Optimist Nationals at the Top of the Gulf Regatta 2010 in Pattaya next month.

The Phuket Sunshine Village Foundation was founded in 2004 after the Tsunami hit Phuket and provides a safe and secure home for children who are either orphaned or who are no longer able to live with their natural parents.

The Top of the Gulf Regatta is one of the most prestigious events on the South East Asian sailing calendar and attracts top class sailors from all around the world. It runs from 30th April to Tuesday 4th May and would be an incredible experience for these children.

The children have been sailing for just over a year on most Sundays and have been joining in with the club racing at Phuket Yacht Club under the supervision of Katy and Paul from Topper Sail Phuket. They will also be joined by two other club members meaning there will be a total of nine junior entries from Phuket.

To prepare the children for the Nationals, it is being arranged for them to join the Advanced Optimist Course run by the Junior Sailing Squadron (JSST) at Sattahip Naval Base, Chonburi from the 17th – 25th April. This will give them a great opportunity to improve their sailing skills and racing knowledge and the chance to practice with a larger fleet. Arrangements are also being made for them to stay on for further practice before competing in the Nationals.

Staff at Topper Sail Phuket have been donating their time to teach these children to sail and arrange races for them every month and Phuket Yacht Club have allowed the children to use its facilities for these races at no additional cost. However the cost of sending the children to the training camp and the regatta itself is estimated at approximately 100,000 baht to cover accommodation, food, course fees, boat charter, entry fees and transportation.

Travel arrangements have not been confirmed and the staff at Topper Sail Phuket are looking at various options including the possibility of any sponsored flights from Phuket to Bangkok and/or Bangkok to Phuket.

Katy Gooch of Topper Sail Phuket says, “I am happy to donate my time to these children from the Phuket Sunshine Village but unfortunately I am not in a position to donate 100,000 baht as well. These children love to sail and have improved so much since they started learning with us and it would be fantastic for them to have the opportunity to go and compete in the nationals. Sailing helps to instill self-reliance and quick thinking and I have seen first-hand how it has helped these children develop both on and off the water.”

Anyone interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Katy Gooch at: 085 215 9185, toppersailphuket @gmail.com.

Learning to sail the Optimist craft has helped
the children develop a new set of skills.

Doug Maiko returns to form

PSC golf from the Café Kronborg

Thursday’s flight winners: Doug Maiko,
Andre Van Dyk and Bunt Moeller with The Admiral.

Peter Blackburn
Monday, March 1, Rayong C.C. – Stableford

The first day of the month was a Public Holiday so we knew that the green fees would be higher and the course would be busy, but a six hour round for some of our later groups was somewhat over the top.

Thirty-three of us assembled at Caf้ Kronborg and we welcomed Shinchi Kobby from Japan and headed off right on time at 0815. It was also good to see the Kubickis back from their “flying” visit home in the U.K. Forty-five minutes later we arrived at Rayong C.C. and as expected the car park was three quarters full so after checking in we had plenty of time before our scheduled tee off time of eight past ten.

I am rarely critical in my write ups but I have to say that the caddies at this course would be the noisiest I have ever heard. There was no regard for people hitting off the first tee amidst constant chatter, sometimes almost shouting from both male and female caddies, in fact the male ones appeared to be the loudest. I fought a losing battle trying to keep them quiet while the four groups in front of us teed off but even a word in the ear of the Starter had little effect.

Also, a six hour round of golf is simply not good enough and there was a distinct lack of presence of Course Marshalls to speed things up. Not good enough Rayong C.C. – If you are going to charge “top dollar” on a Public Holiday then give us value for money.

Having said all that, the course was in good shape although we did find the greens a little slow at times. Our first group teed off marginally later than scheduled and as mentioned the going was very, very slow. The weather was great with a nice cooling breeze and our group managed to “crawl” around in just over five hours and twenty-five minutes which included three enforced drink stops. Many of the nine groups behind us were not that lucky.

The winner of A Flight was Mike Winfield on a count back from Elias Magnusson. Kjeld Ravn finished in third place with Brian Gabe fourth. Stu Rifkin edged out Paul Avery on a count back to take fifth spot.

Joop Jasperse took out first place in B Flight from Graham Buckingham who took second spot on another count back from Ulla Ravn. The Admiral himself continued his good form and finished fourth with Carole Kubcki fifth on a count back over Susanne Gaarde.

The “Compass Hat” was easily won by newly inducted Paul (Muncha) Moloney.
A Flight
1st Mike Winfield (21) 37pts
2nd Elias Magnusson (18) 37pts
3rd Kjeld Ravn (20) 35pts
4th Brian Gabe (16) 34pts
5th Stu Rifkin (18) 33pts
B Flight
1st Joop Jasperse (22) 36pts
2nd Graham Buckingham (24) 35pts
3rd Ulla Ravn (36) 35pts
4th Dave Richardson (22) 33pts
5th Carole Kubicki (28) 30pts
Near Pins: No5 Dave Richardson, No7 Don Richardson, No12 Cilia Bosman, No16 Brian Gabe.
Long Putts: No9 Joop Jasperse. No18 Hugh O’Donnell.

Thursday, March 4, Greenwood C & A – Stableford

A full field of 40 golfers met at Caf้ Kromborg in readiness for the trip to Greenwood. A welcome to Dr Brian Vale from Gosnells Golf Club in Perth, Western Australia who is in Pattaya for a short visit.

The sixty-five minute drive to the course took longer than normal but we arrived in plenty of time and our first group teed off 5 minutes earlier than scheduled at 0955. Unfortunately we were unable to use two tees as the course was fairly busy but there were no holdups and we completed our round in four hours and ten minutes, including three much needed stops for drinks.

It was hot with very little wind but the course was as usual in magnificent shape with the “slick” but true greens a challenge for all. Most people struggled to score, in fact only two golfers played to their handicap or better on this testing layout.

Doug Maiko made a welcome return to form and took out the A Flight on a count back from fellow American Brian Gabe. The consistent Mike “Hunter” Gosden finished third with Richard Kubicki in fourth place.

B Flight was well won by Andre Van Dyk, with fellow Aussie Stu Rifkin finishing second. Mike Winfield continued his good form and finished third with Laurence Harding edging out Cees Bosman for fourth place on a count back.

In a low scoring affair, Bunt Moeller’s thirty points was good enough to win C Flight with Susan Gaarde finishing second. Dr Brian Vale took out third place from Carole Kubicki who finished fourth.

Paul “Muncha” Moloney managed to hang on to the Compass Trophy on a count back from Peter Bye.

A Flight
1st Doug Maiko (16) 33pts
2nd Brian Gabe (16) 33pts
3rd Mike Gosden (7) 31pts
4th Richard Kubicki (12) 30pts
B Flight
1st Andre Van Dyk (20) 37pts
2nd Stu Rifkin (18) 36pts
3rd Mike Winfield (21) 34pts
4th Laurence Harding (18) 30pts
C Flight
1st Bunt Moeller (25) 30pts
2nd Susan Gaarde (25) 28pts
3rd Dr Brian Vale (23) 27pts
4th Carole Kubicki (28) 26pts
Near Pins: C3 Jesper Rasmussen, C6 Leif Kirkgaard, A2 Susan Gaarde, A6 Jannie Jasperse.
Long Putts: C9 Mike Gosden, A9 Brian Gabe.

Fischer lands a count back win over Hern

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Driving to the Pattaya Country Club the dawn skies were beautiful, until we got to the tee box that is when the fog rolled in - we couldn’t even see the dog-leg right on the 1st hole! The fog quickly cleared up however and a fine day for golf it turned out to be this third day of March.

Tuesday’s top two: Michael Fischer, left, with Jim Hern.
We had another good turnout with four groups going out and the course was in fine condition, but the players did have to account for the dew on the greens. The 6:30 am tee off does save the group from the mid to late afternoon heat however.

Heading back to our post game venue of Caddy Shack II we found the early finishers engaging in Herbie’s port roast slices along with some long hot dogs. A review of the cards showed both Michael Fischer and Jim Hern coming in with 39 points but Jim lost out on the count back. He later claimed he was merely saving his best form for the end of month trophy competition. Dale Murphy came in with a 38 for third place while Herbi Ishinaga and Bob Benda each carded 34’s.

Julie Donnestad shines

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, March 1, St. Andrews - Stableford
Div. 1 (0-13)
1st Danny Miller (8) 38pts
2nd Erik Donnestad (4) 38pts
3rd Ian Foster (13) 36pts
4th Ian Bakewell (6) 36pts
Div. 2 (14+)
1st Frank Hughes (16) 34pts
2nd Richard Lyne (19) 34pts
3rd John Hayes (22) 33pts
4th John Radcliffe (15) 31pts

Having been offered the chance to play St Andrews 2000 at normal competition rates, even though the day was being considered by many golf courses in the area to be a holiday and then wanting to charge the usual higher tariffs, it was deemed a no contest and the day’s event was moved.

It always seems strange that some golfing venues would prefer to have an empty course rather than accept a perfectly good offer to have forty players play at the normal rate instead of charging them a higher weekend/holiday rate. Fortunately Green Valley is not amongst that group and can be relied upon to “talk turkey” when required and then reap the benefit.

With therefore a large group assembled, it was necessary to form two divisions with the cut coming at 13 and below for the first division. This was headed by Danny Miller with another sales busting round of two under handicap, which together with a stunning 22 points over the inward half, equated to level par gross. This proved to be sufficient to see off the challenge of Erik Donnestad, who fired a level par going out but could not maintain that momentum on the back nine, as he could only amass 18 points for second place. Ian Foster took third place with a solid level handicap round and a better count back of 18 to 16 over Ian Bakewell, after the latter had gone out in one over gross.

Frank Hughes again won the second division with a score he did not think would be in contention, although he had to be better in the count back, which he was, scoring 21 to Richard Lyne’s 19 to relegate Richard to second spot. John Hayes took his first podium playing out of The Haven by two clear of John Radcliffe in fourth place.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Graham Johnson made up for an otherwise unhappy day with the only one in the first division to sweep the pool.

Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member John Lindsay and also welcomed back Bruce Horn, Benn Nelson and Barry Wellings. There were also farewells for Frijof and Marianne Kayser.

Friday, March 5, Rayong C.C. - Stableford
1st Julie Donnestad (3) 39pts
2nd Evan Millar (23) 37pts
3rd Erik Donnestad (4) 36pts
4th Bob Lamond (6) 35pts
5th Rick Schramm (10) 34pts
6th Richard Dobson (18) 34pts

It was amazing how quickly the greens staff, at the newly re-named Rayong Country Club, managed to get the condition of the course up to a standard that was good enough to play part of the pre-qualifying competition for the Asian Tour. It is equally amazing how quickly the course in general and the greens in particularly, have deteriorated since then.

Although the scoring on the day was reasonable enough, in as much as the CSS stayed at 72, the large majority of the players on the day agreed that the course was a long way short of acceptable for a competition and only the extremely low price mitigated on its behalf.

Julie Donnestad seemed totally unaware of the difficulties on the greens as she continued where she left off in the IPGC Monthly Medal. This time she returned a gross 72, for 39 points, but unfortunately slipped in an errant six on the eleventh after a poor drive to spoil another really nice card, but it was still good for first place ahead of Evan Millar a couple of shots further back.

Julie’s father, Erik, got into the act with a steady level handicap round for third place with Bob Lamond taking fourth spot just one behind him.

For the fifth consecutive time there were no 2’s in the second division leaving a massive roll over pot to be carried forward. There was much relief for Yasuo Suzuki when he finally realised he had achieved the only one in the first division and was not having to share the pool with several others as is usually the case when he gets one.

Back at The Haven there was a welcome for new member Wayne Waywood and welcome backs for George Oakley who was completing the South Herts Team that are preparing to make an attempt to lay hold of the Thailand Challenge Jug for the first time, and to Bob Maloney and Don Everett from the Gosnells Club, near Perth. Sadly they were not accompanied by the “Other Doc”, a real medical one in fact, as Geoff Braimbridge “had a bit of work to do”.

Steve Mascari prevails at home

March IPGC Monthly Medals

Wednesday, March 3 - Green Valley
Div. 1 (0-10)
1st Steve Mascari (2) 68
2nd Marc Napier (6) 69
3rd Dave Mascari (5) 69
Div. 2 (11-18)
1st Brian Libbey (11) 67
2nd Ron Miller (14) 67
3rd Harry Riley (15) 70
4th Barry Traynor (13) 70
5th Chris Knapp (18) 70
Div. 3 (19-36)
1st Len Jones (24) 38pts
2nd Danny Greer (25) 38pts
3rd Jouni Metsanen (23) 37pts
4th Ben Findon (19) 37pts
5th Ronnie Ramsay (19) 37pts
Ladies (0-36)
1st Julie Donnestad (3) 38pts
2nd Nar Hector (22) 34pts
3rd Noi Emmerson (31) 33pts

The March IPGC Monthly Medals were contested over the very well presented Green Valley course and attracted a full compliment. In fact, with all the allocated tee times being taken it was a record turnout to play this very popular course.

Each monthly medal competition provides three winners in the gentlemen’s divisions and one from the ladies, who will go forward to the finals to compete for the Gold and Silver Medals next August. In addition the medals will also be used to determine the IPGC ‘Gentleman Player of the Year’, with between 1 and 15 points to be won in each division every month, dependant on final positions, which will then be aggregated for the year to establish the overall winner.

As usual the first two divisions played a stroke play format whilst the third division and Ladies played Stableford.

With the full co-operation of the course management the day’s round was started from one tee at around 8.30 a.m., with the last group teeing off at 12.30 p.m.

With Russell Exley controlling the registration and Chris Knapp acting as starter the whole operation prior to tee off ran extremely smoothly.

In the first division, favourite Steve Mascari was off to a great start with a birdie on the first, which is still the old fifteenth as the new starting positions were not yet in use, and he completed the front nine in two under gross to set up his fourth win in this year’s series. He then came home in level par to return a very creditable four under off his 2 handicap.

Marc Napier, playing off 6, went out in two under handicap and back in one over, to deny the other half of the golfing Mascari’s, David, on count back, taking second with a better 35 to David’s 35.5 when the latter returned a level par round for the inward half off his 5 handicap. Bob Lamond was just off the pace with a solid net 70 after being unable to improve on the inward half on his front nine of two over gross.

Taking the day’s top honours in the first division leaves Steve Mascari at the top of the Player of the Year table with an increased margin, as Russell Exley failed to garner any points, no doubt due to the three hours waiting after organising the registration.

The second division saw Brian Libbey return from an extended hiatus from golf, coming home with an excellent five under handicap round, which allied to a count back of 31.5 following a gross 37 on the back nine, was enough to give him victory in his first Monthly Medal competition.

Ron Miller was unlucky to have found Brian in such good form as he also scored five under handicap but with a slightly worse inward half, had to be content with second place. Harry Riley led in a group of three at two under with a better count back of 32.5 as Barry Traynor with 35.5 and in fourth, and Chris Knapp with a 37 in fifth, could not quite match him over the closing holes.

In the third division Len Jones at last got some reward for constant effort and an unwillingness to give up in the face of any adversity, with a splendid two under handicap round that was good enough to claim his first Monthly Medal, as he finished as he had started with a very nice 19 points to take the count back over Danny Greer, who could only manage 17 points. But Danny was very pleased to be in contention and moving into tenth place on the Player of the Year standings.

Jouni Metsanen took third place after he won the count back from Ben Findon and Ronnie Ramsay, with a better 18 to 16 and 14 after they had all tied at one under for the full round. Ronnie Ramsay was the most disappointed as he had gone out in four under handicap and was hoping for that elusive first win.

The Ladies division saw an outstanding round of golf from Julie Donnestad as she returned a score of 73 gross, 38 points, achieved without a six on the card, to easily take the top spot with an exhibition of controlled and accurate golf. Nar Hector just slipped into second place ahead of Noi Emmerson in third with a good finish over the second nine.

In the ongoing Player of the Year competition, apart from Steve Mascari, only David Mascari in seventh and Danny Greer (10th) and Chris Knapp (11th) of the top fifteen improved their positions, with Jouni Metsanen moving up to 12th place.

Following a splendid buffet at The Haven, generously sponsored as always by the IPGC, the presentations were made by Russell Exley and the Club Chairman, Chris Knapp. Before the presentations Chris thanked the course management, the organising committee and scorers for their good work, both on the day and during the run up to the competition, and not forgetting the golfers who supported the event.

McPherson best of the week as Robbins makes flying return

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, March 1, Rayong C.C. - Stableford

On a busy holiday, which the course must have overbooked, the golf was so slow it was painful, but Sunny Khanna still made a happy return to Thailand, gradually getting into the swing of things and taking the honours in the A Flight. Tony Robbins came runner up a couple of points behind with Gary Warburton edging out John Hughes on a count back to claim third place.

Tony Robbins – A Flight winner at Green Valley.

In the B Flight lady golfer Jackie McPherson had the best round of the day and won for the first time with a fabulous 41 points. Darren Bennett, playing his first game with The Bunker Boy’s, came second ahead of Jack Robinson in third.

A Flight
1st Sunny Khanna (12) 40pts
2nd Tony Robbins (15) 38pts
3rd Gary Warburton (15) 37pts
B Flight
1st Jackie McPherson (19) 41pts
2nd Darren Bennett (22) 37pts
3rd Jack Robertson (23) 36pts
Near Pins: William Macey, Sunny Khanna, Gerry Cooney (2).

Wednesday, March 3, Bangpra - Medal

There was a packed golf course when we arrived at Bangpra for a Medal round today, which resulted in having to tee off on the 10th and having to endure another painfully slow round of golf!

It didn’t seem to bother Paul Smith though; he had a level par round which was enough to win the A Flight by three shots. PJ, who found himself in the A Flight as the cut was handicap 19, took the runner up spot beating Mashi on a count back.

After a break down in Phuket, Reg Smart was glad to be back and he won the B Flight after beating Tom Jones on a count back. Graeme Preston also got in the frame for a change, claiming third place a shot behind the top two.

A Flight
1st Paul Smith (3) net 72
2nd PJ Redmond (19) net 75
3rd Mashi Kaneta (11) net 75
B Flight
1st Reg Smart (25) net 75
2nd Tom Jones (23) net 75
3rd Graeme Preston (25) net 76
Near Pins: Jackie McPherson, Peter Habgood, Sunny Khanna and Paul Smith.

Friday, March 5, Green Valley - Stableford

Neil Griffin won on February 5 at Rayong Country Club and he left it exactly a month to the day to win again, taking the B Flight with 37 stableford points after beating Kenny Chung on a count back. Don McPherson took third place a single point behind.

Tony Robbins won the A Flight after his return from the Philippines – it seems these breaks away do him good as he tends to have a good round when he gets back! Mashi was runner up and Gerry Cooney came in third.

A Flight
1st Tony Robbins (15) 38pts
2nd Mashi Kaneta (11) 36pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (13) 35pts
B Flight
1st Neil Griffin (28) 37pts
2nd Kenny Chung (26) 37pts
3rd Don McPherson (21) 36pts
Near Pins: Peter Bevis, Mashi, Reg Smart and William Macey.

Blackpool boys illuminate 2010 Lewiinski’s Open

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, Feb. 28 – March 5, Green Valley – Lewiinski’s Open

This unique Pattaya event is eyed suspiciously by some in the golfing community as being too much golf, requiring an unreasonable commitment of four days. To those that have played, however, it represents a chance to match their games to a test similar to that faced weekly by the boys and girls on the TV.

Lewiinski’s Open champion Steve Mulberry, left, celebrates with the Plate winner John Warren.

This year’s event kicked off on Sunday February 28 at Green Valley with a Stableford comp converted into Matchplay for those who chose to play in the Open. They then repeated that itinerary on Monday March 1. Two days of rest followed, not like the boys and girls who make a living doing it. Tuesday evening they huddled up for a nice buffet put forth by the capable staff of the house, and learned if they were numbered amongst the two-day field, plus the ties, who had earned the right to press on for two more days of stroke play for the cup, at Green Valley.

The party goers also learned their four-ball pairing as the field was sent out on each of the last two days in reverse order of accomplishment, that is, with the leaders going off last. I told you it was like TV!

Those who did not clear the cut were not to be abandoned, however, as they were granted a fresh slate in a two-day Stableford tilt for the Plate. They were joined by a handful whose schedule or stamina only allowed participation in the two day event.

Amidst all this male revelry were two intrepid girls who matched games for a four day ladies Stableford event. The entire competition culminated with another grand feast at Lewiinski’s.

Interestingly enough, the three podium spots were filled with three of the nicest golfers and gentlemen of our community, and all had their moments on the course this week, albeit the former more consistently than the later, who spends half the year at work on an oil rig.

Steve Mulberry, playing off a handicap of 9, broke from the gate in strong form by carding a gross 79 (net 70). Steve showed no let up on day two as he posted a gross 82 for a net 73.

Just when a walkover looked assured, back came Dave Dobson and Nick Strasshine to join the battle. Two fellows who were not receiving too much attention, Galley Blackburn and Colin Davis, were keeping their respective eyes on the situation a couple of shots back.

The man of day three was Sean Murphy who compiled 42 points (net 74) with a sixteen on the eighth par-five. This piece of masterful play put Sean well within reach of the leaders, just five strokes back. Meanwhile a strong pitch was being made for the Plate, John Warren setting the pace with a solid 39 points, and Colm Mullen (hope I spelt it right) and Mark Bonner were both a shot adrift in that order.

Yui Bietry continued her consistent march toward the Ladies trophy with 98 total points; this was five clear of second place Sim Davis, increasing her daily increments by one.

The final day at Green Valley had the field abuzz as the pressure mounted. Third place was claimed Nick Strasshine who can now add yet another entry to his extensive portfolio. Dave Dobson took the runner up spot but it was Blackpool’s Steve Mulberry who was universally acclaimed as a worthy cup winner for his efforts.

The Plate headed in the same direction to the west Lancashire coast as Blackpool’s John Warren did enough for the win with a two day total of 72 (hence the headline). Colm Mullen and Mark Bonner found themselves looking towards rather than down from the top podium place.

Yui Bietry tided up her task on the final day and found herself well clear for the Ladies Crimson Cup with a ten point advantage over Sim Davis.

The Lewiinski’s owners and the Golf Manager Colin Davis acted as masters of ceremony at the Presentation Dinner and thanked all in attendance for their participation in such a unique, demanding and interesting test of golf. The field responded with plaudits for vision and execution that makes the 2011 Lewiinski’s Open, to be held again in February, a much anticipated event

Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in, and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764. Transport is provided.

Lay has his say

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society travelled to Rayong C.C. on Sunday, February 28 for the latest weekend stableford event and the large field was divided into two flights at eighteen and under. The course was in fair condition but watering was sorely needed. The upside was that there was plenty of run on the fairways making some of the longer holes reachable but again the greens were on the slow side.

In the second flight Jeff “Rabbi” Cohen, boss at the Elephant Bar, again started like a house on fire but faded over the back nine to produce 33 points and take third place. The whole of the bar is waiting for him to break par! Ahead of Rabbi was steady Fredy Braun, the unassuming Swiss golfer who once again came good with 34 points for second. The flight winner was visitor Judith Barnes and her 38 points was a fine introduction to golf with the PGS.

In the top flight an interesting head-to-head was taking place as Paul McNally and Jon Lay, paired in the same group went shot for shot with both sharing the day’s best gross of 78. Paul’s eventual points tally was 34 and he shared second place with Dave Moriarty whilst Jon’s handicap helped him to 37 points for the flight win.

Paul McNally had the consolation of the day’s only birdie ‘2’, on the seventh. The Booby Bevy went to Brendan Gilsenan for his low score in his first official competition since becoming a member of IPGC and more is certainly to come from the amiable Aussie on future visits.

The next weekend will see the PGS sign off from Rayong C.C. for the low season and a final flourish is certainly expected from some of the “favourites”.

Any advance on 34?

It was Bangpra’s turn on Thursday, March 4 to host the Pattaya Golf Society for a stableford competition on a course which is high on many people’s golfing wish lists. The course was in good condition and the greens were difficult to “pace” as usual and anything above the hole took its toll on the scores and patience of the large field.

The cut was at fourteen and under and in the second flight Richard Dobson’s 31 points surprised him with a third place finish. In second was Barry McIntosh, recently arrived from Oz after an absence of two years, and he made a welcome return with 32 points. The flight winner was Ronnie Ramsay with 34 points.

In the top flight Alan Bridges and Finland’s Vesa Turunen shared third place with 31 points each whilst Sunny Khanna returned to share the win with Rick Schramm on 34 points.

Barry Wellings took the ‘2’s pot for the top flight and Vic Barton took it for the second flight, both their efforts coming belatedly on the long par three seventeenth. Ian Wilson sponsored a special technical prize and Barry McIntosh won it for the best aggregate points score on the par threes with eleven points.

The Booby Bevy went to John Lindsay after his low score was presented to the recorder on an unsigned card, probably out of embarrassment, but the visitor had not yet realised that you cannot hide with the PGS!

The day had been well marshalled by Tony Thorne in the absence of Mr. Len and all players are looking forward to a return to Bangpra later in the month.

Same old problems

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Saturday winners: Michael Moreton, Brendan Moore, Neil Allison (Tuesday Div 2 winner), Bill Shepley, Michael Prideaux, John Baxter and Alan Thomas.

Barry Hooper
I am seriously wondering if I can ever write a report these days on the weekly activities of the TRGG without having to have a moan or groan about one course or the other.

This week is no different as Crystal Bay seems to be yet another course that just cannot get it right. You advance book your players. You confirm it a few days before you go and are advised that everything is in order and that they look forward to seeing you. Then the day before you are going to set off they ring to tell you that they are upping the price because it is a Thai Bank Holiday.

They must have known that when they took the booking and they must have known that when you confirmed it. The result was cancellation of the whole booking (some forty plus players) and a rearrangement to go to another course, Eastern Star, one that has some honour. I do hope that Crystal Bay was found empty - it would serve them right!

I have also heard this week of a whisper that all the Eastern Seaboard golf courses are proposing a general price hike. I do hope that the main organising groups get there heads together over this and have serious talks with the respective course managements. What with bad exchange rates etc. these days budget golf in Thailand is getting hard to find.
Well anyway, enough of the gripes and down to last week’s play.

Monday, march 1, Eastern Star - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Mike McPhee (7) 37pts
2nd Bill Shepley (3) 34pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (10) 33pts
4th Martin Cooper (2) 33pts
Div. 2
1st Brendan Bird (17) 37pts
2nd John McCall (14) 34pts
3rd Barry Hooper (30) 33pts
4th Derek Lucas (18) 31pts

Our first outing was to Eastern Star on the Monday holiday at a reasonable cost, after earlier cancelling our original booking at Crystal Bay (price hiking). Another good turnout and I was personally able to play because my school was on holiday. Great weather and a great course but the greens were a little unpredictable.

The second division plaudits went to Brendan Bird with 37 points ahead of John McCall (34pts) in second and your truly (33pts) in third and my best score ever at this course.

The top flight was also won with a 37 point score, this time from Mike McPhee who finished three ahead of Bill Shepley (34pts) in second and the boss himself, Fergus, came third a further point behind after beating Martin Cooper on count-back.

Five ‘2’s came from Tristan Gilbert, Paul Sheffield and Bill Shepley at the third, Brendan Moore at the sixth and Tristan Gilbert again at the thirteenth.

Tuesday, March 2, Greenwood A&C – Stableford
Div. 1
1st Barry Welling (5) 34pts
2nd Tristan Gilbert (12) 33pts
3rd David Jeffrey (9) 33pts
4th Tewin Lamthong (9) 32pts
Div. 2
1st Neil Allison (18) 35pts
2nd Andy Redmond (14) 33pts
3rd John Merritt (13) 33pts
4th Don Bradley (32) 32pts

Tuesday saw the group take a trip to Greenwood to play the A and C Nines. As is normal at the moment we had great numbers and two very full divisions.

Neil Allison was the winner of the second division with 35 points (I squeezed him into my picture on Saturday after he told me that he never seems to play weekends so misses out on the pics). In second was Andy Redmond, winning on a count-back over John Merritt, both with 33 points.

The first division saw a win for Barry Welling with 34 points ahead of Tristan Gilbert (33pts) in second and David Jeffrey on the same score in third.
Only two ‘2’s were recorded today, from David Jeffrey and Neil Allison.

Thursday, March 4, Phoenix – Stableford
Div. 1
1st Steve Carleton (8) 36pts
2nd Tewin Lamthong (9) 35pts
3rd Adi Mayer (6) 33pts
Div. 2
1st Ben Nelson (14) 35pts
2nd Tristan Gilbert (12) 35pts
3rd Adam Farrell (13) 34pts
Div. 3
1st Paula Byrne (22) 41pts
2nd Robert Wood (16) 40pts
3rd Greg Mason (18) 34pts

Thursday was our usual outing to Phoenix to play the Lakes and Ocean layout. We had a very big entry and three divisions.

The third division honours went to Paula Byrne with a great winning score of 41 points, one that will lower her handicap for sure. In second was Robert Wood (40pts) and third went to Greg Mason on 34.

The second flight saw a win for Ben Nelson at 35 points on count back over Tristan Gilbert in second. Third place went to Adam Farrell just one point further back.

Steve Carleton was the winner in the top division with a level par 36 points. He was one ahead of Tewin Lamthong in second and 33 points was enough to give Adi Mayer third place on count back over Mike McPhee.

Four ‘2’s came from Neil Bramley and Roger Wilkinson at the seventh, Ted Senior at the fourteenth and John Merritt at the sixteenth.

Saturday, March 6, Eastern Star – Stableford
Div. 1
1st Bill Shepley (4) 39pts
2nd Alan Thomas (8) 36pts
3rd Mod Chaviraksa (11) 35pts
Div. 2
1st Brendan Moore (12) 35pts
2nd Michael Prideaux (12) 32pts
3rd Rod Crosswell (14) 31pts
Div. 3
1st John Baxter (15) 36pts
2nd Michael Moreton (25) 35pts
3rd Robert Wood (15) 30pts

Saturday and off we went to our alternative weekend venue of Eastern Star. The entry numbers were great and we had three divisions.

John Baxter returned a level par 36 points to win the third division ahead of Michael Moreton (35pts) and Robert Wood (30pts) in second and third respectively. You should have seen the surprise on Robert’s face when he was advised of his third place. Priceless!

The second flight had Brendan Moore at the top of the list with 35 points, three ahead of second placed Michael Prideaux and four in front of the recently returned Rod Cresswell in third.

Bill Shepley was the top dog in the first division with a fine 39 points, and a full three ahead of Alan Thomas in second place. Mod Chaviraksa took third spot with 35 points.

Four ‘2’s came by way of Barry Welling at the third, Paul Howes at the sixth, and Ian Dalls and Andy Redmond at the seventeenth.

Note: If you want any further information about the golf outings played by the TRGG, please contact Fergus Brennan on 086 056 7019 or call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro.

It’s the Byrne Bonanza show again

PSC golf with the Phoenix Tuesday Group

Mike Gerrard
I will not dwell on this week’s report too much. I am getting fed up of printing the name Hugh Byrne. When he returned from the good ‘auld country’ some 6 weeks ago he was a bit rusty, but all the old polish is shining through now. The worst part is he seems to save it for the monthly special award (a voucher donated by Trattoria Italiana). Poor Giorgio will be sick of giving him free food!

Hugh Byre, center, was the winner at Phoenix on Tuesday, March 2.

Incidentally, on that subject we think Giorgio may soon be ready to try his swing out and play golf again. We sincerely hope so. He has been sadly missed for the last 3 months or so.

So it was the big fella himself Hugh Byrne with 38 points winning today and poor John Bartley had to disguise his big grin (thinking that he had won with 38 points) but losing on count back.

They were both closely followed by yours truly in third place with 37 points.

Near pins went to Patrick Browne, Mike Gerrard, Hugh Byrne and newcomer Jon Haugen and the Lucky draws were won by Ken Akester, Colin Gregg and Louis.

So we toasted a few of our players a ‘Bon Voyage’ who were going back to dear old Blighty to get back to bolstering our pensions up: Colin and Rodney, Gregg, Louis and Stefan.

A very serious note now is the Charity bash at the end of the month, March 30. We still need more players to sign up in a two-ball scramble. Ladies and men in any combination, 600 baht entrance plus the usual green fees and caddy fees on the day, 20 tee times have been booked with about half filled at the moment. We need more benevolent people to join the day.

Please, please help us to raise enough money to provide new drinking water facilities at the Baan Jing Jai Orphanage. Call 087 091 7565

Bridge in Paradise : by Neil Robinson

This deal was played recently in Chiang Mai.  All vulnerable and North dealt.  The bidding had some challenges for both sides.  How would you bid each of the hands?  

                       S: AK542

                       H: 53

                       D: KQ43

                       C: 102       

S: QJ106                           S: 8

H: 4                                   H: AKJ972

D: 1098                             D: J7652

C: QJ764                          C: 8

                       S: 973

                       H: Q1086

                       D: A

                       C: AK953   

This was the actual bidding at the table:

North  East        South     West

1S         2S           P              2N

3D        P              3N           All pass 

East made a Michaels cue bid - bidding North’s suit to show at least five hearts and five of a minor.  South stayed quiet, knowing he would have another chance to bid (West would not pass and leave East in 2S!).

West bid 2N, a conventional bid to ask East which minor suit he had.  North bid diamonds, leaving East with a dilemma.  Diamonds was his minor, so what to do now?  Double?  Or pass, hoping that N-S might end up in three diamonds?

East chose to pass.  Now South had a choice between spades and no trump.  With his good hand, it had to be at a game level.  The bidding showed a lot of distribution, and therefore he reasoned that spades would probably split badly.  With good stoppers in East’s presumed suits, hearts and clubs, he chose 3N.  What would you bid?

Now you are in game, how do you play it?

West, thinking his partner had clubs, led his fourth highest, taken by the ten on board.  Declarer, hoping that West might have two clubs, led to his ace, but was disappointed to see East throw a heart.  Declarer reasoned that, since East had only one club, he should have two spades to go with his ten red cards.  If spades split he could count four spade tricks to go with three club and three diamond tricks, for an overtrick.  So he led a round of spades, ducked on board and won by East.

By now, East only had red cards left, so he took a high heart and then led a low diamond to declarer’s ace.  Declarer now took the king of clubs and the ace and king of spades, finding out about the bad spade split and ending on board.  East had to throw away three more cards.  He chose two more hearts and a low diamond.

Now, declarer took the king and queen of diamonds, raising his total number of tricks to eight (three clubs, three high diamonds and two high spades) and giving him a complete count on the cards in East’s hand.  Next, declarer led a diamond to East’s jack.  East, down to the ace and jack of hearts, was end played and forced to give declarer the queen of hearts as his ninth trick.

Somewhat messy play, but three no trumps bid and made.  Note that the alternative contract, 4S, goes down, losing two spades and two hearts.  What game did you choose?

If you have bridge questions, or to send me your interesting hands, please contact me at: [email protected].

Khao Kheow serves up a sweet win for ‘The Sugarman’

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Monday, March 1, Burapha - Stableford

Despite the unnecessary holiday rates and many locals declining to play, there was still an excellent field of 39 Outbackers partaking on the A & B nine from the blues. The numbers were boosted by a large Australian contingent warming up for their annual TIAC cup which starts next week and judging by the scores, many of them have got a considerable amount of warming still to do! A big welcome to all you guys and particularly those of you who are joining us in Chiang Mai. Welcome back also to Paul Sibley and Ian Humphrey.

Friday winners: ‘The Sugarman’ with Erik Anttonen & Pat Regan.

Early starter Bob Finley took Div A with a fine 38 points from one under par gross man, Simon Spaulding on 37 and Owen Lloyd with the same score. Div B was also won by one of the early starters, El Suggs on 36 and Div C went to one of the TIAC boys, Ken Holman, with a mediocre 33 points.

There were just three ‘2’s from Bob Finley & Paul Sibley had two.

Div A (0-13)
1st Robert Finley (12) 38pts
2nd Simon Spaulding (0) 37pts
3rd Owen Lloyd (11) 37pts
4th Tony Garnett (12) 36pts
Div B (14-18)
1st Eldridge Suggs (18) 36pts
2nd Jim Peachey (14) 35pts
3rd Paul Sibley (18) 35pts
4th John O’Keefe (15) 34pts
Div C (19+)
1st Ken Holman (20) 33pts
2nd John Foote (19) 33pts
3rd Jeff Clarkson (25) 31pts
4th Bob McDowell (19) 30pts

Tuesday, March 2, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

It was the first Tuesday of golf from the new Outback Golf Bar for the 27 Outbackers who made the short trip across the 36 to the welcoming Pattaya Country Club. Included in the 27 was the Outback’s very own Capt’ Bob who was pleased to have respite from the hectic period of the move. Once again there were a number of our Aussie friends with us.

We required an additional tee time which the starter was able to offer as is usual, despite the course being fairly busy. The weather was hot and humid with just a little breeze and the course was a little dry in places although there were a number of sprinklers in operation.

With 27 players there were two divisions with four places in each, plus two’s.

Taking top spot in Division ‘A’ was Graham Holmes (8) with a fine 40 points. Second was Aussie and regular Outbacker Chris Fletcher (10) with 37, followed by local lad, David Day (16) with 36, even without his regular caddy due to a mix up!

The top score of the day came in Division ‘B’ from John Stafford with a great 44 points, just one point short of John Cogan’s total a couple of weeks ago – John almost lost out for submitting his score card late but the understanding organiser, Barry Chadbourn, accepted the card on this occasion!

Second place went to regular Outbacker and PCC member Nigel Cannon (24) with 39 points.
There was another ‘jackpot 2’, this time from Alan Pearce.
The Outback is at Pattaya Country every Tuesday with a 0930 tee time.

Div A (0-18)
1st Graham Holmes (8) 40pts
2nd Chris Fletcher (10) 37pts
3rd David Day (16) 36pts
4th Rod Crosswell (15) 35pts
Div B (19+)
1st John Stafford (20) 44pts
2nd Nigel Cannon (24) 39pts
3rd Peter Lee (22) 35pts
4th Arthur Bailey (22) 34pts

Wednesday, March 3, Phoenix - Stableford

The scoring was very surprising at a course that used to be considered an ‘easy course’; clearly today it was far from that, with only three guys playing to handicap or better. These were Jim Brackett, 38points (Div A winner), Rich Montana, 36 points (Div A runner-up) and Daryl White, 38points (Div C winner).

In the keenly contested ‘B’ division, covering just the 14, 15 & 16 handicappers, 34 points was enough to win the day; involving a count back between a couple of regular Outbackers, John O’Keefe and David Day from another three players all with 32. Whilst in Div D, Gordon Milunovich won with a meagre 32 points from second and third placed men Royce & Paul, with only 30 apiece.

Many of the TIAC group made up the 49 Outbackers playing the Ocean & Mountain nines but there’s no clear favorite to be seen yet, ahead of their big four day tournament next week.
There were two ‘2’s from Harvey Samuel & Barney (Jeff Clarkson).

Div A (0-13)
1st James Brackett (7) 38pts
2nd Rich Montana (13) 36pts
3rd Tony Garnett (12) 33pts
Div B (14-16)
1st John O’Keefe (15) 34pts
2nd David Day (16) 34pts
3rd Ian Button (15) 32pts
Div C (17-19)
1st Daryl White (18) 38pts
2nd Harvey Samuel (19) 34pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 33pts
Div D (21+)
1st Gordon Milunovich (32) 32pts
2nd Royce Wylde (24) 30pts
3rd Paul Smets (21) 30pts

Friday, March 5, Khao Kheow - Stableford

After last week’s respite (white tees), it was back to the yellows for the 53 Outbackers today, playing the wonderfully difficult yet fantastic, A & B nines. One would think by now that the Outback would have mastered this course but far from it, as only three players beat their handicap and the remainder were a long way behind. The good news is, this course is to be re-rated next week by the PSC team, which will probably see par round here reduced to about 33 points.

The ‘Sugarman’ was in amongst some big hitting stars, playing with Simon Spaulding and Brett Wildes, who’s still having a mare of a time, but it produced the best in Sugar, who putted his way to a brilliant 38 points, the joint top score of the day, winning Div C by the comfortable margin of six points from Harvey Samuel way back with 32.

Aussie visitor, Rod Crosswell, showed some early form ahead of Chiang Mai, but he will certainly have his handicap adjusted as a result of his 38 points round here, winning Div B by four from three others all on 34 points, headed by Bruce Milner. Ian Button didn’t fool anybody ahead of his Chiang Mai challenge, only carding 12 points in a vain attempt to duck the handicapper. Thanks for the Outback ball markers though Ian, absolutely brilliant.

Div A was a tied result, even after the count back procedures, right down to the last hole; Erik and Pat could not be separated, both with 33 points, ahead of one of the original ‘Norfolk Raiders’, ‘Big hitting’ Dave Hewson, on 32.

In a poor scoring Div D, Sakorn resumed her usual place at the top of the podium with a great 37 points, way ahead of the men headed by Steve Kilner with 30, the next best was 27; and if you managed 26 points you were in a count back for fourth!
There were just two ‘2’s from Bob Lindborg and Dave Hewson.

Div A (0-12)
T1st Erik Anttonen (7) 33pts
T1st Patrick Regan (10) 33pts
3rd Dave Hewson (7) 32pts
4th Graham Holmes (7) 31pts
Div B (13-15)
1st Rod Crosswell (15) 38pts
2nd Bruce Milner (13) 34pts
3rd Peter Davies (15) 34pts
4th Bob St Aubin (13) 34pts
Div C (16-19)
1st Sugar Ray Handford (19) 38pts
2nd Harvey Samuel (19) 32pts
3rd Bob Lindborg (16) 31pts
4th Brian Maddox (19) 31pts
Div D (20+)
1st Sakorn Pramoolchart (24) 37pts
2nd Steve Kilner (22) 30pts
3rd Graham Fletcher (23) 27pts
4th Ken Holman (20) 26pts

Note: The Outback Golf Bar has now completed the move to its new home, situated 400 metres nearer to Pattaya than the old premises, but still 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.

Galvin hits roaring forties

IPGC Sunday Golf at Green Valley

Sunday, Feb. 28 – Stableford
Div. 1
1st Phil Mitchell 35pts
2nd Marc Jensen 35pts
3rd Charlie Lapsey 33pts
Div. 2
1st Andy Galvin 36pts
2nd Parry Canes 35pts
3rd Noel Reynolds 33pts

Another busy day with the course in fine fettle saw Phil Mitchell take the 1st division by a narrow from Marc Jensen. Phil is never far off the pace playing off his 6 handicap but he had a battle on his hands today to beat Marc Jensen, an 8 handicapper, by the narrowest of margins. Charlie Lapsey, another 8 handicap man followed in third place only two shots off the pace after winning a count back over Ian Dallas.

In the 2nd division Andy Galvin, no newcomer to the podium, took the spoils with a very steady 36 points. Parry Canes followed with a very respectable 35 points from Noel Reynolds a further two shots behind.

The ‘2’s were shared by Phil Mitchell, Barry Wellings, and Noel Reynolds. Barry is our ex Everton squad and Portuguese League footballer, enjoying a short holiday in Pattaya. Good to see him back.

Sunday, March 7 - Stableford
Div. 1
1st Bob Maloney 37pts
2nd Russell Exley 36pts
3rd Ian Dallas 36pts
Div. 2
1st Andy Galvin 40pts
2nd Richard Dobson 39pts
3rd Kevin Hamilton 35pts

The course continues to maintain its good condition and a pleasing breeze today made it more comfortable to play. Bob Maloney is a regular visitor from Perth, Australia, playing off a 12 handicap and he took the 1st division by a single point from our organizer, Russell Exley. Russell plays off 8 and just failed to catch Bob in the home straight. Ian Dallas put in a fine performance off an 11 handicap to take third spot.

Andy Galvin is in the winning habit and took with the 2nd division with a magnificent 40 points. Richard Dobson, our motor racing champion, could not find that extra gear to deny Andy victory but was in his slipstream with a superb 39 points. Kevin Hamilton came a few lengths back in third with a very workmanlike 35 points.

The ‘2’s were shared by Bob Maloney, Richard Dobson, and Tom Byrne.

The presentations were held at the Golf Centre Bar where hosts John and Geoff, assisted by their bevy of beautiful ladies, took excellent care of the many golfers.

For further details on Sunday IPGC Golf at Green Valley, phone Russell Exley 084 782 4582.

Holiday golf a breeze at Greenwood

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, March 1, Greenwood – Stableford

It was a public holiday today and there were some concerns about whether the prior agreed upon price of the normal daily green fee would be adhered to when we arrived. All 43 players signed in however and there were no problems whatsoever. Many thanks to the management at Greenwood for applying some common sense here; I hope this will continue as I am sure the bookings will increase from the IPGC on the next holiday.

Another hot day again, but with a gentle breeze this made the playing condition more suitable, and for the first time in six months we are allocated the B course, with the A been the challenge on the front nine.

There were four divisions out today in the stableford and it was great to see the return of Mam Morel into the Ladies Division; welcome back Mam!

Ron Miller took out the top division with a level par 36 points, ahead of Keith Hector (35pts) and Barry Stirling (33pts) in second and third respectively.

William Chang was the best in Division 2 with his 35 points, two ahead of Brian Blackford and Jean Morel who had to be separated by count back; Brain getting the nod for second place.

In the third division Barry Rawlinson took the honours with 34 points, Kalevi Luukkonen was second on 31 and Kalevi Wallius took third place with 30.

In a low scoring Ladies flight, Ursala Lehuer came out on top with just 29 points, ahead of the aforementioned Man Morel who took the runner up spot with 23 points.

There was only one ‘2’ on the day, from Barry Stirling at the 5th on the B course to take the Division 1 pot.

Near pins went to Russell Benson, David Phillips, Arvo Hiller, Simon Potter, Barry Stirling and William Chang.

Finally a ‘Bon Voyage’ was relayed to Jean and Les Utting who were heading home. We wish you well.

Friday, March 5, Eastern Star – Stableford

There were 39 players out today in a Stableford competition at Eastern Star and Miss Nang won the Ladies division with 36 points, ahead of Miss Nom in second one point behind.

The highest score of the day in the three Men’s divisions was recorded by Tony Barritt, winning division 2 with 36 points, Bryan Rought was second with 31 points and in third place was Harry Vincenzi on 29.

Meanwhile Jimmy Johnson took out Division 3 with 35 points; Jim Lane was second two points behind and in third place was Barry Rawlinson with 32.

The highest handicap in Division 1 today was 12, but playing off 6 Ian Bakewell scored 19 points on the back nine to come in with 33 points to win the division. John McLoone finished second after beating Mark Cooper on a 19/15 back nine count back after they both came in with 32 points each.

J.P. Byrne and Brian Libbey both recorded a brace of ‘2’s to share the pot between them. Near pins went to Miss Nom (2), Miss Nang and Jim Lane.

The ladies tipple should have been won by a certain person who, for the first time in his golfing career, had an air shot with his driver. This happened on the 9th tee, and he was too embarrassed to turn up at Siam Cats later so no names mentioned. Best of luck next time Andy C.

There were celebrations back at the bar with live music and free food for all golfers as it was Faa’s birthday. Many thanks to Faa and Olaf for the evening …and early morning.

San Miguel Wednesday Darts League

Final Standings (week 18)

The Fishing Gallery A team are presented with their medals and trophies after winning the latest season of the Wednesday Darts League.

Team                             Played  Won   Lost   Diff.    Pts. Fishing Gallery A           18        14        4        68      115 Danny’s Lounge            18        15        3        66      114 Yates Bar                         18        12        6        56      109 Papa’s Place                   18        13        5        46      104 Mee Chew Sports Bar   18        11        7        20       91 Blue Mountain               18          9         9        16       89 Fishing Gallery B           18          8        10        -6       78 Jantha Coffee House    18          5        13       -70      46 Klaffen Bar                     18          3        15       -70      46 The Lincoln                    18          0        18      -126     18 Most Team Tons: Danny’s Lounge – 410 tons Most Individual Wins: Ken 15 (Danny’s Lounge), Chet 15 (Fishing Gallery A) Highest Finish:  142 by Paavo (Papa’s Place)