|
United held in six goal thriller
Staff Reporters
A headed goal twenty minutes from time from Brazilian
Anderson Dos Santos rescued a point for newly based Buriram PEA FC at
the Nongprue Stadium last Sunday, and dashed Pattaya United’s hopes of
climbing into a top six league position.
Pattaya United forward Tana Chanabut (10) vies for
the ball with a Buriram PEA defender at the Nongprue Stadium in Pattaya,
Sunday, April 25.
It all looked plain sailing for the ‘Dolphins’ in the
first half when, after conceding an early goal to Buriram’s Dudu, United
stormed back to take a 3-1 lead by the 40 minute mark. The equalizer
came on the half hour when a corner kick was floated into the visitors’
box and striker Ludovick challenged a Buriram defender for a header. The
ball appeared to deflect off both players into the net but the
Cameroonian forward later claimed the goal.
With a foot once more firmly back in the game, United
piled the pressure on Buriram from the restart and were awarded a
deserved penalty just two minutes later when French midfielder Jérémy Novero was brought down in the area by Seydou Koné. Ittiphol stepped up
to calmly slot the ball home from the penalty spot to give United the
lead.
The final stages of the first half saw a bizarre
passage of play that saw two further goals scored and the game held up
for 7 minutes. First Buriram came close to equalizing when a forward’s
header slid just past the Pattaya post from a free kick out on the left.
Seizing on their good fortune, United went straight back up the field
and won another penalty when Somchai was clumsily bundled over in the
box by Seydou Koné after Ittiphol had seen his thunderous shot cleared
off the line.
The crowd were then ‘treated’ to a prolonged hold up
in play as first the Buriram players surrounded the referee in protest
and then Koné received treatment for a shoulder injury on the pitch in
what appeared to be a thinly disguised attempt to garner the referee’s
sympathy and avoid a booking or straight red.
Eventually order was restored and play could resume.
Ludovick stepped up to take the penalty but his effort was placed too
close the Buriram keeper who pulled off a good save diving to his right,
however, the ball bounced kindly back to the Cameroonian who made no
mistake from just 5 yards out.
At 3-1 United appeared to be coasting to a
comfortable half time lead, but right on the stroke of the interval
Buriram won a free kick out on the left, the ball was swung in and Narit
in the Pattaya goal failed to collect it cleanly, allowing Songsak
Chaisamak to tap in and reduce the arrears to just one goal at the
break.
The second half saw the defences far more organized
and it wasn’t until the 63rd minute that United
were able to carve out a clear chance when Ludovick saw his powerful
strike just fly the wrong side of the post.
Buriram where now sensing a chance of getting
something out of the game and following a period of sustained pressure
they got their reward after Arlindo allowed Dos Santos to break clear in
the area and head the ball past Narit to tie the scores up at 3-3.
Wongdee replaced Novero for United as the home team
made one final push for victory. Tana Chanabut had the ball in the
Buriram net from a spectacular volley but it was rightly ruled out for
offside and Ludovick had two headed attempts in the dying moments of the
match which both flew agonizingly the wrong side of the post.
United were forced to settle for the point which sees
them now in eighth place in the league standings on 7 points from 5
games. United’s next match is this coming Sunday against Bangkok Glass
at the Nonprue Stadium in Pattaya. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 p.m.
At the top of the table, defending champions Muang
Thong United missed out on the chance to move into first place after
they were beaten 1-0 by Bangkok Glass at the Leo Stadium in Pathum Thani.
Amnart Kaewkew scored with a last minute header to give the ‘Glass
Rabbits’ all three points.
Chonburi FC stay top of the Premier League on 12 points despite
having their game against BEC Tero postponed last Saturday due to the
political disturbances in Bangkok. The ‘Sharks’ will play Samut
Songkhram FC this coming Sunday at the Chonburi stadium. Kick-off 6 p.m.
Pattaya Orphanage
crowned new champs
Shai Davis Soccer Tournament at Planet Football
All the teams gather for a photo call.
Derek Franklin
This annual Shai Davis soccer competition is now in
its third year and teams from four charitable organisations gathered on
April 25 at the recently opened Planet Football on Soi Siam Country
Road.
Three local teams, the Pattaya Orphanage, Fr. Ray
Children’s Home and the Children Protection & Development Center (CPDC),
as well as the team from Sarnelli House in Nong Khai played a series of
games to decide who would receive the winner’s trophy. This tournament
is held not to raise funds for the charities, but for the teams to have
a lot of fun and show off their soccer skills.
The Pattaya Orphanage team, pictured above,
won the
third Shai Davis Junior Soccer Tournament last weekend.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Fr. Peter
Srivorakul, Acting-President of the Fr. Ray Foundation, who welcomed the
teams and wished them all good luck. Also in attendance was Fr. Michael
Phangrak, Director of the Pattaya Orphanage, Suppachai Sathirasilpin,
Director of the Fr. Ray Children’s Home, Supagon Noja, Director of the
Child Protection & Development Center, and Radchada Chomjinda of the
Human Help Network
‘Men’ from the CPDC Team who won Man of the Match and Top Scorer.
The first game of the day was between CPDC and the
Pattaya Orphanage, which saw the Orphanage winning 5-4. The Sarnelli
House team and the Fr. Ray Children’s Home then played with the local
boys winning 4-2.
After a short break due to the heavy rain the two
losing teams then played for third and fourth place and it was the team
who had spent ten hours the previous day travelling from Nong Khai who
beat the local CPDC team.
The final was played between Pattaya Orphanage and
Fr. Ray Children’s Home. The two previous years’ competitions had been
won by the Fr. Ray team and they were desperate to win again, just as
the Orphanage players were determined to make sure they did not make it
three wins in a row.
‘Gaew’ from Nong Khai with his Man of the Match Trophy.
This final game turned into the most exciting match
ever to be played since the tournament started in 2008. The referee
worked hard, and although no player was sent off there were several
players who were shown the yellow card and given a warning. As one team
scored, the other team followed soon after until the final whistle blew
and the score was level at four goals each.
Penalties were to be the decider with each team selecting five
penalty takers, and each player scored making it 9 goals each. Finally
it was down to the two goalkeepers to each take a penalty and it was the
Pattaya Orphanage team who scored the winning goal, which set their
players and supporters on a celebration usually seen after the World Cup
finals.
The skipper of the Fr. Ray Children’s Home team,
left, receives the
runners-up trophy.
Team Sarnelli House made the trip all the way from
Nong Khai.
Strong racing line-up for 2010 Top of the Gulf Regatta
Past winners return to defend their crowns
The 2010 Top of the Gulf Regatta is ready to set sail.
Hosted by Ocean Marina Yacht Club on Jomtien Beach, international crews have
been arriving all week to compete in the largest regatta in the Gulf of
Thailand, which gets underway this Friday.
Enjoy some first class sailing action at the Top of the
Gulf Regatta from April 30 – May 4.
Now in its sixth year, the Top of the Gulf Regatta
continues to grow from strength-to-strength. Having established itself
initially as an event providing junior sailors with international-standard
competitive racing, the Regatta has seen rapid growth in the keel boat and
multihull fleets making the Top of the Gulf Regatta a truly multi-class
regatta and one-of-a-kind in Thailand.
The 2010 Regatta is expected to see highly competitive
racing in all classes. The IRC Racing 1 class sees 2009 champion and 2009
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta class winner, Ichi Ban, skippered by Matt
Allen, returning to defend his title. The Commodore of the Cruising Yacht
Club of Australia has become a regular on Thailand’s regatta circuit and
he’ll be competing his Beneteau First 44.7 against another 44.7, Tantrum,
as well as the popular Thai-crewed entry Lawana (X 512). Also pushing
hard for the title will be 2007/8 Asian Yachting Grand Prix champion
Evolution Racing (TP52) skippered by Ray Roberts, the GP42 AA
skippered by Kevin Whitcraft, President of the Phuket King’s Cup Regatta,
Phuket stalwart Katsu (Swan 42) skippered by Ben Copley, and possibly
a number of sports boats including Vino (Phuket 8).
The IRC Racing 2 class sees many returnees with more than
10 boats expected to compete for the class title this year, including the
Royal Thai Navy Farr MRX.
The IRC Cruising class is expected to be the largest
class with 15 boats currently entered or intending to enter by the opening
race day. IRC Cruising will this year race on a performance-based handicap
system under the watchful eye of Michael Spies. Spies is the sailing master
for Ichi Ban and brings with him experience from Hamilton Island
Raceweek in performance-handicapping.
Principal Race Officer for the keel boat and multihull
classes will be the returning Jerry Rollin, while the International Jury,
who come from far and wide, will be Chaired by the able Bryan Willis.
A good number of multihulls are expected to hit the start
line, approximately 14 have confirmed to date with 2009 champion Radab
Kanjanavit hoping to skipper his Cedar Swan (F9-A) to a consecutive
victory in the Ocean Multihull class. He will be pushed hard by a number of
corsairs and by Phuket regatta veteran Henry Kaye on his Seacart 30 Thor,
who raced a clean series to win the 2009 Phuket King’s Cup Regatta.
The hotly contested one-design Platu Coronation Cup
welcomes an international fleet with three teams from the Singapore
Management University challenging for the title against top crews from
Thailand, Malaysia and Japan.
As well as the keel boat and multihull classes, the Top
of the Gulf Regatta comprises dinghies and beach catamarans. Classes will
include Hobie 16, Hobie Tiger, Open Monohull Dinghy, Lasers, and Optimists.
The junior Optimist sailors will be competing in the Thailand Optimist
Nationals.
The 2010 Top of the Gulf Regatta will be sailed off Ocean
Marina Yacht Club, Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand, from 30th
April to 4th May. Over 200 entries in total are
expected this year.
Sponsors of the 2010 Top of the Gulf Regatta include:
Major Sponsors Ocean Marina Yacht Club, PTT Exploration and Production
Public company Limited (PTTEP), The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and
Lexus. Other sponsors and supporters include Thai Airways, MaDuZi Hotel,
OCEAN Portofino, Singha Corporation, Sun Cooler, Movenpick, Mont Clair,
Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, Bank of Ayudhya, Coca Cola, Corsair Trimarans,
Grampian Country Food Group, Gulf Charters Thailand, QBE Insurance, SEAT
Boats, Ocean Glass, Royal Varuna Yacht Club, the Yacht Racing Association of
Thailand and Pattaya City.
For more information, go to the official Website at:
www.topofthegulfregatta.com. (Press Release)
Chris Kays Memorial Rugby Festival this weekend
The 10th Pattaya 10’s Rugby
Tournament will take place over the coming weekend at Horseshoe Point. The
action begins at 09:30 a.m. on Saturday and concludes around 5 p.m. Sunday.
In what should be a memorable weekend festival of rugby there will be almost
24 hours of entertaining rugby action during the two days in what promises
to be the best tournament yet!
Refreshments and food stalls will be set up at the venue
for the convenience of spectators and disco music will be provided at the
field and throughout the weekend by popular DJ Russell Jay and his
Soundzgood Discotheques. Don’t miss this popular landmark of the Pattaya
sporting calendar.
OMYC long and short
distance - A tale of 2 races
Kipsan Beck
The April Ocean Marina Yacht Club race series saw for the
first time simultaneous short and long distance racing, as the fleet split
up into the larger boats capable of sailing down 120 nautical miles to Koh
Chang, and the smaller day boats who raced 4 short distance courses directly
in front of the beautiful Jomtien Marina.
Koh Chang Race Winner “El Coyote”.
Five yachts started the inaugural 120 nautical mile Ko
Chang non-stop race on Saturday morning, April 10 in a variable 15 knot
south westerly breeze. ‘El Coyote’ (Gary Baguley) and ‘Sansanook’ (Andrew
Watt) elected to tack down the shorter rock strewn course down the passage
between the mainland and Ko Khram, gaining considerable ground as a result
of the tide.
Evening conditions saw all boats nearing Samet and
beating upwind, as the breeze was coming directly from Koh Chang towards the
Sathahip area, which combined with a large number of fishing boats meant
crews were working hard throughout the night. After passing Ko Samet the
number of fishing boats decreased and just before dawn the wind slowly
backed to the south enabling ‘El Coyote’ and ‘Sansanook’ to make the end of
Ko Chang. ‘Bob’ (Ralf Neumann), ‘Ninian’ (Bill Horgan) and ‘Missy’ (Ed
Storton) were not so lucky and had to tack south in a dying breeze.
The 53 foot ‘El Coyote’ opened up a commanding lead and
crossed the finish line off Ao Salak Phet at 4.45am on Sunday morning,
winning on line and handicap, as ‘Sansanook’ followed at 8.00am in 2nd
place. ‘Bob’ (Jeanneau 49) finished at 9.30 am winning the single handed
division prize. Bill Horgan sailing his ketch ‘Ninian’ persevered in the
light breezes on Sunday morning to finish at 3.00pm on Sunday, which was
just enough to beat ‘Bob’ for third place on corrected time.
Phil Harper from Gulf Charters then lead all competitors
through a tour of the Koh Chang island group over the next few days, along
with a mixed fleet of cruising boats as part of the annual rally to the
area.
Back at Jomtien, 4 windward leeward courses over 2 days
gave the smaller boats a good opportunity to prepare for upcoming The Top of
the Gulf Annual Regatta 2010. Ray Waldron’s Lee Vino is a sportsboat
measuring 8m long and 3.4m wide with lightweight construction, carbon rig
and large hiking wings for the crew. Sailing in 15-20+ knots, the boat flew
around the course, pushing David Bell and his reduced crew on the 35 foot
Jenneau One Design “Magic Roundabout” into 2nd place.
The smallest boat in the marina, Shaw 650 “Pornstar” took out 3rd.
Treasure Trove has long competed strongly in TOG
regattas, and lead from start to finish for the multihulls with skipper
Chris King surrounded by a crew of ladies proving that women make some of
the best yachtspeople.
Sailors can now look forward to the TOG Regatta, when Thailand’s largest
multi class fleet will see Female Optimist World Champion Noppakao Poonpat
defending her national title, a large contingent of Asia’s leading racing
yachts coming from abroad, and large numbers of local keelboats, multihulls
and dinghies all joining on the water.
Pattaya City win 2010 MBMG Championship in style
MBMG International League 2009/10
Paul Frain
Pattaya City won the MBMG First Division football
championship last weekend against bottom club Scandinavian Vikings at the
Patana School field in Bangkok. This was Pattaya City’s second league title
in three years and they have still one game left to play.
City got off to the perfect start last Saturday when they
took a 1-0 lead in the first minute. Danny Stevens passed the ball to Craig
Banks whose unstoppable shot hit the back of the net before the Vikings
keeper could react. Then, just one minute later, City’s Patrice Lowe fired
in a low shot that made it 2-0 to the league leaders.
In a frantic opening, the Vikings struck back two minutes
later with a superb 35 yard shot that hit the top corner of the net to make
it 2-1. The setback did not deter City however and with them playing their
flowing passing game they gave the Vikings the run around, with Craig Banks
having two efforts well saved by the Scandinavian keeper.
City’s own keeper had to be alert soon after and a good
punch out was needed to keep the score line the same. Then good inter
passing between Craig Banks and Peter Ndjanna saw the latter score the third
goal for City to make it 3-1 midway through the first half.
Ndjanna returned the favor soon after and a move down the
left saw Banks put the ball past a bemused keeper to make it 4-1. City were
attacking in droves now and it wasn’t long before Earnest Dipita slipped in
behind the defense to make it 5-1.
A rare attack by the Vikings brought a goal as the City
defense, with time on their hands, couldn’t clear and the forward slotted
home to make it 5-2. Vikings nearly struck again when they were given a
penalty, but it was blasted over the bar. They were made to pay for the miss
as almost immediately Dipita picked up a loose ball and after beating three
defenders he lobbed the ball over the keeper to make it 6-2, which brought
an end to a breathtaking half of football.
After the break City’s Patrice Lowe forced a great save
from the Vikings keeper, but it was the home team who scored next after
pouncing on a poor clearance to make it 6-3. City appeared to be over
confident and their passing game was becoming scrappy as everybody was
looking to score. It was finally left to Earnest Dipita to seal the game
with a brace of goals in quick succession, his third and fourth of the match
to make the score 8-3. City then missed a penalty and also hit the bar just
before the end, but there was no further scoring and City could celebrate
their championship success in style.
Pattaya City are at Houseshoe point this coming weekend
in the first ever local derby match against FC Nova Pattaya, kick off 4 p.m.
The team and coaching staff would like to thank Paul Wilkinson and AGS Four
Winds for their generous sponsorship during this successful season.
Johanson goal blitz seals
win for FC Nova
FC Nova played B.S.L. in the league cup in Bangkok last
weekend. Nova, who hadn’t won a match in the competition, wanted to put the
record straight and get their first victory. They had an early scare however
when their keeper found himself stranded in ‘no man’s land’ but the BSL
forward put his shot wide of an open goal.
FC Nova replied when Romain Jeanijean saw his low shot
sneak inside the post to make it 1-0. This gave Nova the confidence to
attack but a series of fine saves by the BSL keeper kept the forwards at
bay. Eventually the pressure told however and Nova went further ahead when
Nicklas Johanson shot on the turn to make the half time score 2-0.
After the interval Johanson scored his second of the
match, tapping into an empty net to make it 3-0 for FC Nova. The visitors
then gained a corner and a goal mouth scramble saw Johanson on hand to stab
the ball home for his hat trick and FC’s fourth.
BSL relied on breakaways and gained a penalty which was
converted to make it 4-1. This failed to deter Nova and their two forwards
were causing havoc amongst the BSL defense and it was no surprise when
Johanson, after beating three defenders, scored his fourth and FC Nova’s
fifth goal of the afternoon.
Shots rained in and the bar was rattled by a Bjorn
Ellingsen shot and shortly after Chanon Dewong made it 6-1. Then, just
before the final whistle, Romain Jeanijean scored FC Nova’s seventh and his
own hat trick to make the final score 7-1.
This was an excellent performance by FC Nova and will
give them confidence as they take on the Champions Pattaya City this coming
Saturday in their final Cup game.
Dave Spendley comes good
IPGC golf from The Haven
Wednesday, April 7, The
Emerald - Stableford
1st Dave Spendley (24) 42pts
2nd Shuichi Kodaka (18) 40pts
3rd Lyle Blaw (12) 38pts
4th Trevor Schirmer (14) 37pts
2’s: Tom Byrne and Lyle Blaw
Monday, April 12, Phoenix
- Stableford
1st Al Keith (6) 37pts
2nd Mark Campbell (10) 35pts
3rd Dave Stockman (5) 30pts
4th Mike Morris (8) 30pts
2’s: Dave Stockman and Al Keith.
Wednesday, April 21,
Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
1st Dave Spendley (22) 38pts
2nd Fred Chadwick (15) 32pts
3rd Shuichi Kodaka (17) 31pts
4th
Roar Berger (26) 29pts
Extremely difficult conditions led to unexceptional
scores with the CSS moving out three shots and the day’s competition became
non-counting for upward review of handicaps, although Dave Spendley was
reduced by two shots for his fine round making it a total of four shots down
in two weeks, which is some sort of record for him.
Shuichi Kodaka swept the pool and roll overs in the
second division and Barry Traynor did the same in the first division.
Friday, April 23, The
Emerald - Stableford
1st Brian Kelly (17) 36pts
2nd Jens Gunnarsson (12) 36pts
3rd Trevor Schirmer (14) 33pts
4th Dave Spendley (20) 32pts
2’s: Brian Kelly and Sid Ottaway.
Caddyshack retain their St George’s Day crown
5th Annual St George’s Day Invitational Scramble
The victorious Caddyshack team collect their prizes
and trophy from Emcee Derek Brook, far left.
Runners up ‘Colin’s Chronics’ finished with a net
59.5.
Derek Brook
Friday, April 23,
Phoenix – 4-Ball Scramble
Sometimes an idea takes a grip and becomes an
institution. St George’s Day charity golf at Tropical Bert’s is fast
becoming one such event, and with a limited field is usually well over
subscribed. We usually limit the field to 12 groups, but this day we had
thirteen and one group who paid, but could not make it. Sad.
Keith Phillips, left, collects his hard earned case of beer from
Derek Brook.
The profits go to the Blind School and we are always
extremely thankful to our sponsors. On this day our main sponsors were
Alan Bolton Property Consultants, from day one our main supporter,
Graham MacDonald and the M.B.M.G Group, Gez and The P.I.G.S., Pattaya
Sports Club, and also our excellent food suppliers and some years
sponsors, Asia West Fine Foods Co Ltd. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to
all these generous sponsors and also to Bert and Pu of Tropical Bert’s,
not only for sponsorship but also for their whole hearted support.
Thanks must also go to our ‘ Technical Hole
sponsors’, Reg and Dot, Bob and Lat, Tom and Keith and not forgetting
Frank ‘Turbo’ Pilkington. Nor must we forget Homer who put up a case of
Heineken for the nearest shot to the case. To all our sponsors our
thanks go out and The Blind School will profit.
We always have a discussion each year as to where we
will play as it must be a close course. We decided to go to Phoenix this
year as not only is it close, but anyone who wishes to walk can do so.
This was a popular change and was appreciated by all our players.
The trip down there is quite short, but with the
possibility of rain it was important we got off, and after being told we
were to play the Mountain and Ocean Nines, it was onto the first tee and
off we went.
The course on the day was in quite good condition,
with only a strong wind and tees at the back to stop fine scoring. The
fairways were well grassed and the greens were hard and fast, of course
the best point was that we were not held up and could forge ahead. The
worst point was that with (fortunately) the storm not breaking, it was
hot, in fact very hot.
Sat in the restaurant at Phoenix as the cards came
in, it was noticeable that the scores were not outstanding and that all
the near pins had not been hit. Honest golfers all and that is nice for
an organiser.
Back at Tropical Bert’s all were tucking into the
food. In a break from tradition, Bert had decided that as the players
arrived back he would cook them a hot meal. So by the time ‘yours truly’
arrived back, having taken the scores in at Phoenix, most were sitting
back replete and partaking of a cold one or two. What was also
noticeable was that the place was packed and there were not many spaces
to be had. Space however was made for the children of The Blind School,
who came in and sang for the players.
Taking time out for the interviews by the press we
finally got underway, and I shall note the winners of the technical
prizes at the end except for one which stands out. Some players turn up
week after week and never win. They turn up to play with friends and
have a fine day out. Keith Phillips is such a player, but as they say,
‘All have their hour of fame’ and on this day not only did Keith have a
near the pin, but he also won a case of Heineken. My Player of the Day!
The Emcee and Organiser, Derek Brook, got the night
under way, and introduced Bert who thanked all for coming and all the
sponsors. Then back to the Emcee for the winners and as per tradition,
after the technical prizes, he started with the team in last.
Although it is a four man scramble we make provisions
in case one player does not turn up. However at the last minute we made
up a team of the last three to ask if they could be fitted in and called
them, The Odds and Sods, namely Chris Youngman, Graham Buckingham and
David Griffiths who came in with a net 74, and of course they came last.
Nuff said.
To be in the prizes you had to be under net 60 and
all the winners were within 1.4 points. So in fourth were the Hua Hin
A-Team of Kevin Dwyer, Doug Millar, Craig Millar and Alan Rawson with a
net 59.9.
Next up in third was the team ‘Dick and The Doofs’
with Dick Warberg, Steve Hamstad, Joel Flor and Bill Knight with a net
59.7. In second was ‘Colin’s Chronics’ with Colin Cronin, Peter
Whitehead, Bob Rasmussen and Colin Morris with a net 59.5.
So to the winners, and with a hard worked 58.5, ‘The
Caddyshack’ team of Bruce Tollit, Damian Trant, Jeff North and Amphan
North retained the championship. This was a good result as Amphan has
not been well and it is good to see her in the winners’ circle again.
Before we close I must say thank you to Damian Trant
who donated his prizes to be auctioned off for the benefit of The Blind
School. A charitable end to a very charitable day. T.T.F.N.
Near Pins: Mashi Kenata (2), Damian Trant,
Derek Brook, Bill Knight.
Long Putts: Willie Mercer, Colin Morris, Keith Phillips, Paul O’Mahoney
The Blind School youngsters perform a song for the
players.
Count backs galore at Eastern Star
PSC golf from The Bunker Bar
Wednesday, April 21,
Eastern Star - Stableford
Playing stableford at Eastern Star, where we haven’t
played for some time, there was a three way tie for third place between JJ
Harney, Gerry Cooney and Laurence Harding. Laurence had the best back nine
to just edge out the other two. Mashi took the runner up spot, also losing
out on a count back to Roy Dayton, who had his first success since playing
with the Bunker Boys.
1st Roy Dayton (20) 34pts
2nd Mashi Kaneta (10) 34pts
3rd Laurence Harding (18) 33pts
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney, Laurence Harding, JJ Harney and Roy Dayton.
Friday, April 23. Mountain
Shadow - Stableford
Playing Stableford again there was another count back
today to decide the winner; Geoff Cox beating Colin Greig to win with 35
points and third place went to Gerry Cooney just a point behind.
1st Geoff Cox (14) 35pts
2nd Colin Greig (13) 35pts
3rd Gerry Cooney (12) 34pts
Near Pins: Geoff Cox, Roy Dayton, Colin Greig and Laurence Harding.
Mikko misses flight but picks up first Monthly Mug
PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg
Peter Blackburn
Thursday, April 22,
Phoenix - Monthly Mug – Stroke
Well, golfers are now returning to Pattaya after
their various “Songkran Avoidance Trips” and we were able to recruit 17
keen golfers to complete for the Café Kronborg Monthly Mug, involving as
usual a stroke round at Phoenix Golf & Country Club on the Mountain &
Ocean course.
Bjarne, left, presents the April Café Kronborg
Monthly Mug to Mikko Hiltunen.
We decided to book an early tee time (0904) to avoid
clashing with other regular Thursday golfers who play there and after
leaving Café Kronborg 15 minutes earlier than the normal, 0815, the
thirty minute journey enabled us to organize ourselves in easily enough
time to hit off on time.
It was great to see Mashi joining us again and Frank
“Turbo” Pilkington back to defend the title he won last month. Also a
hearty welcome to Martin Todd, an old Gosnells Golf Club fellow member
of mine, who joined us and of course Ronnie Ratte, back on R & R from
his work in Korea.
Teeing off right on time in very hot conditions we
were treated to “millionaires” golf once again with absolutely no-one in
front of us for many holes. The course was in great shape although the
greens were somewhat slower than one would expect at Phoenix. Due to the
conditions we were compelled to make three fairly lengthy drinks stops
but still completed our round in four hours and thirty-five minutes.
After all had showered and refreshed ourselves in the
restaurant we headed back to Café Kronborg for presentations. Thanks
once again to Bjarne from Café Kronborg for his continued sponsorship of
this monthly event.
There were some very good scores and also some
terrible ones, but as you all know if you are “off your game” a stroke
round will invariable get you every time. This month’s Monthly Mug was
very well won by Mikko Hiltunen from Finland who told me he was due back
at work a couple of days before but thanks to the volcano problems in
Iceland he had been stranded here.
Taking out first place in the normal competition was
Mike Allidi with another excellent round and the consistent Mashi Kaneta
finished second, with Ronnie Ratte in third place on a count back. Last
month’s winner Turbo Pilkington didn’t go away empty handed and finished
fourth ahead of Graham Buckingham in fifth place.
I couldn’t finish without mentioning that the
“Compass Hat” was won today by yours truly on a count back from Andre
Van Dyk.
Monthly Mug
Mikko Hiltunen (26) net 66
Flight winners
1st Mike Allidi (4) net 69
2nd Mashi Kaneta (10) net 70
3rd Ronnie Ratte (29) net 77
4th Frank Pilkington (17) net
77
5th Graham Buckingham (21) net
78
Papa Ray Memorial Scramble
The starting sheet for Ray Rogers Memorial Birthday four person
scramble, scheduled for Thursday, 6th May at
Plutaluang, is now up on the notice board at Café Kronborg, so please
put your names down for this very popular event as soon as possible.
Taylor comes up trumps on Cata-Tonic Tour
PSC golf from The Golf Club
April 15 saw the start of our 2010 “Get Outa Dodge” Tour.
Not willing to brave the seemingly endless soakings of Pattaya Songkran, we
loaded up and headed to Pak Chong. Three rounds of golf were scheduled: Khao
Yai Country Club (formerly Mission Hill/Life Privilege), Voyage Panorama,
and Toscana Valley, with an optional day at Bonanza C.C.
Steve Ellison at the beautiful Khao Yai Country Club.
A quick stop at the airport to collect Mark Wood proved
fruitful, Mark having just arrived back from Vietnam stopped in duty free
and was laden with spirit and gummie bears, keeping van captain Bob and
navigator Grant full and happy. We arrived in Pak Chong a few hours later,
organized the accommodation at Rim Tarn Inn and set up the groups for our
first day’s golf at Khao Yai C.C.
Day 1 at Khao Yai National Park provided some amazing
scenery and had plenty of photo opportunities for us amateurs and the Pro
picture taker Steve Ellison. Mon Thongkiew finished top of the day’s leader
board with 39 points, followed in by Grant Cadell and Robbie Bennett on 37,
Grant edging the countback for second.
The second day of competition took place at Voyage
Panorama C.C. Although not as scenic as Khao Yai, the course played a little
tougher as we encountered our only rain of the 5-day trip. A one hour delay
seemed to level the majority of the field but did not slow down our eventual
top three. Coming in first on the day was our van captain Bob Newell with 37
points on count back over Kevin Taylor, while Mark Wood took third place
with 35.
Arriving back at Pak Chong we prepared for a steak night
out complete with spirits and wine. It was noted that there were ample
supplies of gin, but tonic was not yet stocked. So began the hunt for the
elusive ingredient. The plethora of 7/11’s and minimarts proved empty.
Having already long passed Tesco we continued to the steak house keeping a
strained eye out for anything tonic. Chirpers from the back of the bus
claimed signs of “Tonic R Us:, “Tonic Warehouse”, “Tonic/Tonic/Tonic” and
“Free Tonic”, but alas none was procured for this outing.
Our optional day of golf saw 8 of the 12 players travel
out to Bonanza C.C. for a fun day. The course was surrounded with various
accommodations of all shapes and sizes and some very amazing private homes.
Oddvar Rikke took over from Steve as Pro-photog of the day and provided us
with some amazing shots and a video compilation has been promised.
On the return trip we headed directly to Tesco for the
elusive tonic elixir. We located the shelf and were aghast to find a mere 6
cans remained. We were informed that a Canadian man “buy mak mak” and this
was all that was left. Dejected we returned to the hotel to discover that
Robbie Bennett was the culprit, sitting amongst a pyramid of tonic. Needless
to say the rest of the night went very well.
The third day of competition led us back to the Khao Yai
National Park and the amazing surroundings of Toscana Valley Golf Club &
Resort. With the overall title on the line we headed out to challenge this
amazing course. Long carries and well placed hazards proved difficult for
all but two combatants. It should be noted to choose your tee boxes wisely
here!
Kevin Taylor came out on top today with a fine 38 points
on a count back decision over Mark Wood who played an equally good round.
Henry O’Brien was some distance back in third on 31 points. The result today
meant that Kevin Taylor was the overall winner of the 3 day Cata-Tonic Tour,
so well done to him.
Thanks go to Steve Ellison for his tireless efforts to
put together an amazing and memorable trip, and also to Bob Newell for
chauffeuring us around, to Mark Wood for the gummy bears, and all those that
joined us for the adventure.
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro,
off Soi Buakhao and Soi Diana junction. We can be reached on 085 434 3377 or
[email protected] and our new website is www.golfclubpattaya.com.
Paul Greenaway: lost and found
PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Friday, April 16, Krisda City Golf Hills
- Stableford.
The day started early for the 23 Outbackers and a
number of partners who chose to escape Pattaya Songkran for more
leisurely Kanchanaburi with an Outback breakfast at 06.30. Then at 07.15
off we go, led by Capt Bob in the Outback Kangaroo bus for the 2ฝ hour
journey to Krisda Golf Club.
Laem Chabang winners: Tony Garnett, Jim Bryan and Anton Schuett.
We arrived in plenty of time for our 11.00 tee time;
that is except for Paul Greenaway and Paul Quinn who decided to make
their own way there – but they never made it! With a puncture, then
whilst trying to locate Krisda, they also stopped to make a donation to
the local police charity, and after numerous calls to Capt’ Bob they
decided to give golf a miss today.
Included in our party was Paul Quodomine who had not
played golf for over 8 months, and uses crutches to walk but still
managed to play 15 holes today and again on Sunday – well done Paul.
No one had played this course before but all found it
in good condition, enjoyed it and would come again.
This was a ‘practice round’ prior to the main
competition over the next three days. After a beer and a chat we were
off on the two hour journey to our two hotel in Kanchanaburi.
There were four ‘2’s coming from Shutts, Arne
Stangnes, George Bishop & Tony Garnett.
1st Chris Davisson (13) 35pts
2nd Eldridge Suggs (16) 34pts
3rd Lloyd Shuttleworth (3)
34pts
4th Michael Gosden (8) 33pts
Saturday, April 17, River Kwai G.C. - Stableford
This morning we woke to find it was raining – just a
little! After breakfast we left in convoy for the hour long journey. On
the way the rain became heavier and many were beginning to think, ‘no
golf’, but when we were just 20 minutes from the course, the rain
stopped and the sun came out giving us another hot and sunny day.
To enter this golf course is somewhat unique as you
cross the river by ferry that takes two cars at a time. We were warmly
greeted at this almost deserted course and were told it was 1,100 baht
for green fee, caddy and cart. The course was not in good condition
which was a shame as it is a great layout with some challenging holes.
The greens were in better condition than the rest of the course – but
not that great. Still it was an enjoyable day with good company.
The journey back was long, as it was Songkhran day in
Kanchanaburi with trucks and motorcycles and people celebrating the Thai
New Year – it was all done in fun with none of the aggressive way often
seen in Pattaya and ended at 7pm – except in some of the side roads.
Div A (0–13)
1st Tom Fitzpatrick (12) 37pts
2nd Chris Davisson (13) 36pts
3rd Lloyd Shuttleworth (3)
35pts
4th Paul Greenaway (13) 35pts
Div B (14+)
1st Mark Riggall (15) 38pts
2nd Billy Fitzgerald (15) 37pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 34pts
4th Nigel Cannon (21) 33pts
Sunday, April 18, Nichigo G.C. - Stableford
Today we were at the ever popular Nichigo Golf
Course. Upon arrival after the 30 minute trip we met many of Pattaya’s
golfers who were on the usual April escape, including many from
Lewiinski’s. Oddly enough they (Lewiinski’s) somehow ended up with an
extra player, who joined us for his game; he (Mike Shrosbree) did rather
well – coming second in Div A with 37 points. Paul Greenaway continued
to show that he didn’t need a practice round with an excellent 39, the
top score of the day, to win Div A. There were other good scores from
Bruce Milner (3rd), Rosco (4th),
Mark Riggall (1st Div B), Jean Guy (2nd)
and Jim Bryan (3rd) all with 36 points.
The fee of 1,350 baht for green and caddy fees and
sharing a cart was a good deal for a Sunday.
Despite the number of golfers there, we were away on
time and allocated the River and Mountain nine’s. Whilst the course was
in great shape it was not in the pristine condition many of us had known
in the past.
There was just one ‘2’ coming from Mike Gosden.
Div A (0-13)
1st Paul Greenaway (13) 39pts
2nd Mike Shrosbree (13) 37pts
3rd Bruce Milner (12) 36pts
4th Rosco Langoulant (13) 36pts
Div B (14+)
1st Mark Riggall (15) 36pts
2nd Jean Guy Gaudet (16) 36pts
3rd James Bryan (15) 36pts
4th George Bishop (14) 34pts
Monday, April 19, Royal Ratchaburi G.C.- Stableford
So it was up and away for out last day, saying
goodbye to Kanchanaburi as we made our way to the delightful Royal
Ratchaburi Golf Course – thanks to ‘Sat Nav’ we arrived on time!
At the clubhouse we were the only group signing in so
we were away shortly after arrival. This being the final day of the
three day competition it was a case of ‘The first shall be last and the
last shall be first’ from the blue tees. The course was in first class
condition and enjoyed by all, whatever their score.
Arriving back in the clubhouse we met up yet more
groups of ‘Pattaya escapees’! Shortly after the last group came in,
Capt’ Bob calculated the scores for both today and overall, then it was
time for the presentation.
Paul Greenaway put in another good round to win Div A
with 36 points ahead of Capt’ Bob (first time on the podium this trip),
Chris Davisson and Bob Finley all with 34. Div B didn’t do so well, with
the mediocre score of 32 points being enough to win, achieved by Jean
Guy and Billy Fitzgerald.
There were two more ‘2’s today from Paul Quinn & Jean
Guy, making a total of only three over the three days and a handsome
payout!
Div A (0-13)
1st Paul Greenaway (13) 36pts
2nd Bob Philp (7) 34pts
3rd Chris Davisson (13) 34pts
4th Robert Finley (11) 34pts
Div B (14+)
1st Jean Guy Gaudet (16) 32pts
2nd Billy Fitzgerald (15) 32pts
3rd Bruce McAdam (19) 26pts
4th Arne Stangnes (26) 25pts
Overall 3-Day Totals
1st, Paul Greenaway (13) 110pts
2nd Billy Fitzgerald (15)
101pts
3rd Chris Davisson (13) 100pts
4th Jean Guy Gaudet (16) 100pts
5th Mark Riggall (15) 98pts
6th Robert Finley (11) 95pts
As you see from the results, Paul may have got lost
on the first day but made up for it by knowing his way around a golf
course, finishing with a three round total of 110 points, a great
standard of golf – well done Paul. (The total of 110pts equals that
achieved by Neil Hughes, also at Kanchanburi, on the Outback’s inaugural
away trip at Songkhran 2008.)
Billy Fitzgerald had another good away trip, after
finishing third in Chiang Mai and going one better here. Chris Davisson
pipped Jean Guy for third, by virtue of his better final round score –
both finishing on a total of 100.
Most of us were then back to the Outback to be met by
many who had not escaped! The ones who haven’t returned, the likes of
Rosco, B1, B2 & Steve Mann have headed off to Hua Hin for a bit more
golf and then return to Hellfire Pass back in Kanchanaburi for Anzac day
on Sunday 25 April.
So another successful Outback trip – on these trips
new friendships are made and you have the opportunity to meet and play
with those who usually play on other days to yourself. Thanks go to
Capt’ Bob.
Monday, April 19, Burapha - Stableford
With Pattaya grid locked at the height of Songkran,
the half a dozen golfers who played the C & D nines today knew there
would be no going back. Welcome to Capt’ Bob’s mates, Dalby, Bryce &
Moorie and to the other three guys. Neil Lavery won the day with 32
points from the blue tees.
1st Neil Lavery (10) 32pts
2nd Brent Dalby (17) 31pts
3rd Rick Evans (8) 29pts
Tuesday, April 20, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
The Kanchanaburi mob returned the previous night
(Monday) as some normality returned to the golfing scene here in
Pattaya. The water throwing powder smearing season over at last for
another year, 13 Outbackers rolled up at the local course to try their
hand at this game called golf.
The local lass won it, Laong, with an excellent 38
points as her handicap continues to tumble over the recent weeks. Second
was Moorie (Ian Moore) with 35 and Alan Pearce and Suzi could only be
split after a countback, both on 34.
There were just two ‘2’s from Moorie and Suzi.
1st Laong (35) 38pts
2nd Ian Moore (4) 35pts
3rd Alan Pearce (22) 34pts
4th Suzi Lawton (14) 34pts
Wednesday, April 21, Phoenix - Stableford
Seventeen Outbackers at Phoenix, which appeared
bereft of golfers, considering it was a ‘sports day’. Starting on
Mountain followed by Ocean, everybody was thankful of a good pace of
play given the incredible heat and high humidity.
The course was probably in the worst condition seen
there for some time, whether because of the lack of rain, the greens
seemed to be lacking growth and what grass was there, was patchy and
hairy causing the weak putt to veer easily from its intended line.
Elsewhere there were sporadic clumps of grass just off the fairway,
which punished the slightly wayward shot unnecessarily harshly.
Not the case for Bob Lindborg, who nearly didn’t play
because of a sore back, he hit 14 out of 14 fairways which was a delight
to watch and where he lacked the length of his fellow players, he made
up for in his accurate short game around the greens. Perhaps getting
your caddie to tee the ball up is the way to play this damn game, Eh
Bob!
So Bob won the day with 37 points, followed in by
Geoff Doody (36pts) and Bryce Stick (35pts), Bryce getting 21 of them on
the front nine. Jesse Serna (5th) conversely had a great back nine
(22pts) including a birdie on the 10th worth 5pts
with his two shots.
There was a ‘jackpot 2’ bagged by Moorie (Ian Moore).
1st Bob Lindborg (18) 37pts
2nd Geoff Doody (23) 36pts
3rd Bryce Stick (20) 35pts
4th Andre Coetzee (8) 34pts
5th Jesse Serna (36) 33pts
Friday, April 23, Laem Chabang - Stableford
This was the first of our planned Friday visits to
Laem Chabang throughout the low season; it will alternate with Khao
Kheow every other week, so our next visit here will be 7th
May.
Thirty-nine Outbackers played the C (Valley) and A
(Mountain) nines on mostly forward tees due to maintenance work being
carried out on all the white tee boxes. As a result the course was
little more than 6,000 yards long, paving the way for some potentially
high scoring, however, with a couple of notable exceptions, Tony Garnett
(43pts) and Anton Schuett (40pts), that didn’t really happen.
The next best score in Div A was 35 points from
Bernie Stafford followed by Louis Doyon in third with 33. In Div C,
Eddie Delaney took second with an excellent 37 points and Brian Maddox
and the Sugarman both had 34. Div B was won by Jim Bryan with 36 points
ahead of Jean Guy on 34.
There were six ‘2’s coming from Paul Greenaway, Steve
Plant, Art O’Connor, Jean Guy and Jamie Milner had two.
When we return here, the Outback will use their own
tee markers and set the course up as a mixture of red and blue tees to
give a total playing length of approximately 6,400 yards.
Div A (0–13)
1st Tony Garnett (12) 43pts
2nd Bernie Stafford (13) 35pts
3rd Louis Doyon (11) 33pts
4th Paul Greenaway (13) 32pts
Div B (14–16)
1st James Bryan (15) 36pts
2nd Jean Gaudet Guy (16) 34pts
3rd Steve Plant (14) 33pts
4th Suzi Lawton (14) 31pts
Div C (17+)
1st Anton Schuett (17) 40pts
2nd Eddie Delaney (31) 37pts
3rd Brian Maddox (18) 34pts
4th Sugar Ray Handford (18)
34pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit
Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a
beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give
Bob a call on 087 941 2474.
Boys from
the black stuff
PSC golf from Lewiinski’s
April 15-20, Nichigo G.C. - Stableford
1st Bob Dibben
2nd Jim Bell
3rd Peter Hynard
The Lewiinski’s gang decided to hit the road and head to
Nichigo and leave the water throwing to the tourists. The convoy was led by
our resident mini bus followed part of the way by three green ford transit
vans. Thailand’s best were on the alert looking for the red shirts, and so
it was a non interrupted journey. First to arrive and be greeted by the
staff was our old pal Sat Nav, most amazing as he had not put his name down
to go. Eventually every one arrived.
The format was match play with everyone playing each
other, leading to an out right winner. Bob ‘The Wizard’ Dibben hit the floor
running, winning the first day and the overhaul first place as he remained
undefeated throughout the trip. Jim Bell took second after he picked himself
up from his first day drubbing at the hands of ‘The Donkey’, who showed his
nose but ran out of carrots.
Peter Hynard, Nicky ‘Two Gloves’ and Peter LeNoury were
all there but nobody could touch ‘The Wizard’ in this form.
The trip was deemed a great success, played in a friendly
Lewiinski’s fashion, with plenty of night time entertainment. Amazingly none
of Irish travelers made the podium but they made a grand job of laying a new
tarmac drive.
Wednesday April 21, Khao
Kheow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Bob Dibben (11) 32pts
2nd Peter LeNoury (8) 31pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (15) 32pts
2nd
Jim Bell (22) 30pts
A very tired bunch, just returned from their trip to
Nichigo, turned out to play Khao Kheow on Wednesday. Bob ‘The Wizard’ Dibben,
who is on a roll at the moment, won A Flight with a mere 32 points. He was
also co man of the match. Peter LeNoury needed just 30 points for second
place.
‘The Donkey’ must have found a new supply of carrots as
he edged Jim ‘Houdini’ Bell by a stroke for first place in B Flight with a
co man of the match 32 points.
Peter Henshaw, John Heaney and Des Tyson shared a
rollover ‘2’s pot. But to be fair this was a bit of a hollow victory as most
of the Irish boys were too tired to make the day’s game.
Friday, April 23,
Greenwood - Stableford
A Flight
1st Brian Dunbar (13) 36pts
2nd Terry Mangan (10) 35pts
B Flight
1st Tore Eliassen (15) 37pts
2nd
Christy Knight (20) 34pts
Tore Eliassen returned a solid 37 points, which turned
out to be the best card of the day, to give him the man of the match and B
Flight title ahead of Irishman Christy Knight, who left his shovel at home
to gain a count back decision over the unlucky Jim ‘Houdini’ Bell as both
posted 34 points.
Canada’s Brian Dunbar put together a fine even par round
to win the ‘big boys’ flight, leaving Irelands’ Terry Mangan to fill the
podium a shot adrift.
Peter LeNoury, Gordon Kerr and Eddy Beilby shared the
‘2’s pot.
The biggest winner of the day was Captain Gavin Knox who
pocketed 15,000 baht from the Lewiinski’s draw; a nice way to end one’s
holiday don’t you think.
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.
Knight wins
at Greenwood
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Derek Brook
Tuesday, April 20, Greenwood – Stableford
In a desperate bid to escape from the mobile shower, ice
and powder time, we decided to hit Sukhumvit and head down Route 7. Yes I
know ‘torture week’ was over in Pattaya but it still continued down the
coast.
Tuesday’s top two: Bill Knight, left, and Steve Compton.
This was a small group as our numbers were cut into by
escapees from free showers, and people marooned in Europe by ‘The Cloud’,
also taking time out during this week. In fact we had not played for some
time as we had taken a break from golf.
So it was up the road to Greenwood, and what did we find?
Well an empty course, and not only was the course empty, but it was also in
great condition. So around we zoomed and they also had a ‘special’ that was
green, caddy and cart fee, plus a meal and a beer when we got back, all for
1,500 baht. Yes we had a bit of that!
Back at Bert’s the scores were found to be not bad. The
winner on the day was Bill Knight with 36 points ahead of Steve Compton in
second with 35 points and in third was yours truly (DB) with 33 points,
ahead of Peter Whitehead on count back.
So to the near pins and with only one green hit by Peter Whitehead, yes 3
greens with no one on, we had a bit of a damp squid. T.T.F.N.
Andersson on form at Emerald
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Wednesday, April 21, The Emerald -
Stableford
It was back to reality after the Songkran festival with
nine groups out today; two divisions for the men and one for the ladies. Yet
again another very hot and humid day and there were many lethargic bodies
returning after a four hour round today, but this did not reflect in the
scores coming in for all divisions.
Mr. intermittent, Mikael Andersson, scored 40 points to
win division 1, with Colin Greig a close second just two points behind and
Paul Smith beat Kari Aarnio and Mr. Kermit on a 17/16/16 back nine count
back for third after they all finished with 34 points.
Luckily for Keith Hector the second division cut started
at 16+ today so his 36 points took pole position in Division 2. Andy Oz
meanwhile beat Tom Novak into second place on a 19/15 count back after they
both came in with 34 points. There was another count back loss for Miss Nom
as she lost to Miss Nang (16/19) after they both finished with 31 points.
Paul Smith’s shot on the 5th hole
finished 6 inches from the pin, unlucky for a hole in one but saved him a
few bob in the end. Andy Oz birdied the 15th to take a
rollover from Rayong and was the only ‘2’s winner in Division 2.
Near pins were claimed by (Div.1) Mikael Andersson, Frank
Kelly, Albert Muller and Paul Smith, (Div.2) John Cowley 2 and Gordon
Everingham, and (Ladies) Miss Nang x2 and Miss Nut.
Friday, April 23, Eastern
Star - Stableford
It was a total nightmare upon arrival today with our car
losing a set of clubs from the roof rack after departing Siam Cats and one
person not being picked up from the bar and having to make his way there by
motorbike. It was turmoil on the first tee trying to rearrange the nine
groups according to who was there.
Our allocated starting slot was 9.15 and the first group
went out bang on time, albeit a two-ball, the next four were three-balls and
the rest all foursomes. On some of the holes today there was a pleasant wind
blowing and on the others nothing at all.
Michael Dige returned from Chang Rai to win Division 1
with 34 points, Georges Faber was second one point behind and Bo beat Rob
Lamond 12/10 on a back six count back for third place after they both
finished with 30 points.
In the placings yet again, Barry Rawlinson beat Tom Novak
on a 16/14 back nine count back to win Division 2 after they both scored 31
points, and Dan Morgan finished third with 30 points.
Michael Dige birdied the 6th hole
to win the only ‘2’ in Division 1, while two rollovers ensue to Eastern Star
next Friday in Division 2. There was only one nearest the pin in the Ladies
comp today, well done Miss Nang on the 17th.
There were a few phone calls later that afternoon from
the management at Eastern Star and a couple from our regular caddies that a
golf bag had been found on the 331. Amazingly, after a short trip back to
the junction with the 332, the clubs were waiting there for us. Many Thanks
for the staff at Eastern Star for their help and also Khun Tip at Mammas Bar
for her help.
After the wet comes the heat
PSC golf from Mulligans Lakeside
Tuesday, April 20, Emerald G.C. -
Stableford
Well it was back to normal golfing again on Tuesday after
a week of celebrations and the associated chaos of Songkran. Golfers
returned from different provinces where they had gone to escape the
drenching in and around Pattaya.
Keith Hodges shows the form that won him a near pin at
Khao Kheow.
And so to the golf where we visited The Emerald for the
first outing of the week and found the course to be in good nick, with the
greens running quite smoothly and a little more speed than the last visit.
Good scores were not excessive, with only Jeff W (6)
playing to his handicap, recording 36 points to lead the way home, from fast
finishing playing partner Mike Pledger (21) who fired 35 points. In third
place was the consistent Martin Hayes (13) with 33 points, coming to grips
with a borrowed Driver after finding his own did not conform with
guidelines. Wonder how many more non-conforming clubs are being used out
there, and yes, it does make a difference, otherwise they wouldn’t be
banned, would they?
The near pins were spread around with Martin and Gordon
getting one each, while Mike snaffled the other two.
Thursday, April 22, Khao
Kheow G.C. - Stableford
Thursday saw us travel to Khao Kheow, one of the best
tests in the area where good shots are rewarded and bad ones result in a
long, hot walk/buggy ride on this beautiful course.
Having recently had a slope rating adjustment by the PSC
powers that be, (despite having a rating provided by the TGA affiliated with
the USGA), it results in mediocre resultant scores maintaining or even
reducing handicaps. That would be ok if everybody played the same courses/s,
but they don’t, so some get adjusted, while others do not.
On the day, nobody shot their handicap, low marker Jeff
(6) fared best with 34 points, while Mike Pledger (21) and Yves Philibert
(24) went down to a count back after both returned 28 points; Mike edging it
17 to 14 on the back 9 holes.
The near pins were picked up by Ian, Jeff, Keith & Mike,
the latter making it three for the week, with 2 runner ups as well. Well
played young man.
Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf generally on
Tuesday and Thursday (we sometimes change to accommodate a Thai Holiday).
Presentations are made at the course on Tuesday with Mulligans Lakeside
hosting the Thursday presentation. Please call Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray on
081 935 8088 for more information. Hope to see you there, Cheers & Good
Golfing!
Bavaria put the pressure on USMC
Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League
200 Bowlers: Samrit and Somrak.
Bavaria won all four points from Canada and are now just one half point
behind the first place U.S. Marines. Somrak bowled a 210 game and 521
series to lead the Marines to a three point win over Green Tree. Noodle
Russell bowled a good 542 series for Green Tree.
Brother D moved from fifth to fourth place after they won three points
from Café Ole and Mai Munsitha bowled a 516 series to lead Jack Tar to a
four point sweep over Indiana. Meanwhile Samrit bowled a 211 game and 534
series to lead Sabai Sabai Friday to a four point win over VFW Post 9876.
New faces at the top
Golf from the Travellers Rest
Barry Hooper
It was refreshing to have some new faces to photograph on
Saturday after play. I do not have a problem with photographing winners,
they are always well deserved, however when the same faces appear week after
week it does not make for great viewing for the readers.
New winners: Dave Bell, Alan Rawson and Andre Coetreze.
And it is great for someone new to step in to the
spotlight. Who knows, maybe for the first time in their lives? See my report
for Saturday’s play and the picture from Khao Kheow to find out who were the
new winners. I must say that it is also nice to get back to normality after
the Songkran activities and our usual four outings of golf.
Monday, April 19, Bangpra – Stableford
1st Mike Rushant (13) 35pts
2nd Daryl Ottoway (8) 34pts
3rd Paul Scholes (12) 34pts
4th Fergus Brennan (9) 31pts
It started with Monday with a trip to Bangpra with just a
small (but maybe an exclusive) group of ten players. I think that also had
something to do with the weekend activities as well.
Mike Rushant was the man to make hay while the sun shined
with his thirty-five pointer to take top honours, followed home by Daryl
Ottaway and Paul Scholes, both at thirty-four, with Daryl taking it after
count back over the back nine.
A single ‘2’ came from Jeff Boylan who took home the
goodies this week.
Tuesday, March 20, Burapha – Stableford
1st Daryl Ottoway (8) 34pts
2nd Larry Simpson (10) 33pts
3rd Jeff Boylan (26) 32pts
4th Paul Scholes (12) 30pts
Tuesday and off to Burapha with again not great numbers,
but it enabled Daryl Ottaway to go one better than the previous day and take
the win with thirty-four points, just the one up on Larry Simpson in second
(who also recorded the only ‘2’ on the day) who in turn was one ahead of
Jeff Boylan in third.
Thursday, April 22, Phoenix – Stableford
1st Amphan North (13) 38pts
2nd Ted Senior (13) 36pts
3rd Jeff Wilcox (23) 34pts
4th Mod Chaviraksa (12) 34pts
On to Thursday and our regular weekly visit to Phoenix to
play the Mountains and Ocean nines. We had a good turnout as players like
this course, and I am unsure why but the ladies seem to always do well here.
Some might say that the yardage off the ladies tees is in their favour.
True, but you still have to play good golf to take the win and that is
exactly what Amphan North is doing week after week. This week she won with
thirty-eight points, two ahead of Ted Senior in second. Two further back was
Jeff Wilcox who topped a stack of thirty-fours, beating Mod Chaviraksa by
two on the count-back.
I am unsure if there were any ‘2’s on the day as no sheet
was supplied.
Saturday, April 24, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Alan Rawson (14) 36pts
2nd Andre Coetreze (8) 35pts
3rd Ted Senior (13) 35pts
4th Dave Ball (18) 34pts
5th Mod Chaviraksa (12) 34pts
Saturday was a visit to Khao Kheow, the second of our
weekend regular venues, and it’s where our new names came into the frame.
Today was a win for Alan Rawson with an even par
thirty-six points. In second was Andre Coetreze at thirty five, beating Ted
Senior on count back and Dave Bell took fourth at thirty-four after he also
beat Mod Chaviraksa on count back.
Three ‘2’s recorded from Amphan North, Andre Coetreze and
Daryl Ottoway.
Just for reference, Ted Senior was cut by one shot in
handicap for general play under the twelve point ruling used at the TRGG and
is now off 11.5 - and it is about time to!
Note: If you want any further information about
the golf outings played by the TRGG, please contact the hotel on 086 056
7019 or call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro.
A Shaw thing at Greenwood
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar
The very welcome end of Songkhran saw the Pattaya Golf Society assemble
in the dry to take on the challenge of Greenwood’s B and A nines in a
stableford competition on Tuesday, April 20. The day was fine and the
course was well presented and the bonus was a very good “all-in” deal
including free water, a post round snack and a free beer! What could be
a better way, then, of shaking off the excesses of the past ten days in
town?
Holiday absentees had cut the field to a single flight
and in third place was visiting PSC golfer Tony Garnett with an excellent 37
points. In second place was regular Peter Ditz who played the front nine in
level par, giving him what should have been an unassailable advantage but
two nil returns on the back nine brought him back to reality with a total of
39 points for second place. The day’s winner was Aussie Brian Shaw who had
been clicking his heels and champing at the bit for ten days and when he
eventually stepped out on the golf course he vented his frustration with a
massive 40 points score which could have been even better had he not
“blobbed” the final hole.
The day’s only birdie ‘2’ was recorded by Peter Ditz on
B5 and the Booby Bevy was very graciously awarded to all the golfers by an
exuberant Mr. Len in celebration of Newcastle United’s Championship title,
then only fourteen hours old. Following the online progress of his heroes
“live” certainly put the damper on his own game but all’s well that ends
well.
Khao Kheow
broken at last
Khao Kheow is a wonderful challenge and extremely good
value for money and for those reasons the Pattaya Golf Society chose it as
the venue for its stableford event on Thursday, April 22, on one of the
hottest days of the year so far. The allotted track was the long C nine
followed by the tough A nine and with the average handicap at sixteen the
day was set for a fine competition.
Low season dictated that the field would play in a single
flight and Jean Morel joined Dave and Margaret Wilkinson in a share of third
place with 31 points each. Ahead of them was Kazuo Takimoto on 33 points, a
total which won last time out there a few weeks ago. The winner was Wichai
Tananusorn who had the honour of breaking par for the first time in fifteen
PGS rounds at Khao Kheow and his best gross of 79 represented 39 stableford
points. It was an excellent performance indeed.
Wichai shared the ‘2’s pot with Tony Thorne, the latter’s
birdies on C3 and C8 matching the Thai golfer’s on A5.
In the “Battle of the Sh——s”, Peter Masters easily beat
Mr. Len by 5-2 and the Booby Bevy was awarded to Brian Shaw for his “hero to
zero” efforts in recording fully twenty points less than his last winning
return two days previously. Sure, Khao Kheow is a tough nut to crack.
Andersson
brightens up dull Eastern Star
The clouds were heavy, the crowds were not, on Saturday,
April 24 as the Pattaya Golf Society visited Eastern Star for their regular
weekend stableford extravaganza. A reasonably sized low season field turned
out, surely doubling the others who ventured to the course on a heavily
overcast morning. Generally the course was in good condition but there were
tight lies on some of the fairways and the greens were slow.
By the end of the afternoon Tim Lazecki’s accuracy off
the tee had helped him to 32 points which took fourth place, a couple behind
the ever-consistent Larry Slattery in third with 34. The group’s best player
currently, Wichai Tananusorn, again came good with a 35 point score for
second place whilst Mikael Andersson found his form with 37 points for the
victory.
There were no birdie ‘2’s so the prize pot was suitably
enhanced and a tired and jet-lagged Masanori Takano was awarded the Booby
Bevy for his low scoring card. Opportunities to “nab” Masa will be few as
usual during the next few weeks.
For the remainder of the low season the PGS is
alternating its weekend venues between Khao Kheow and Eastern Star and some
fascinating and demanding golf is in prospect for the Soi Buakhao based
group.
Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson
I picked up the
hand below, distributional but weak, at a recent duplicate game:
S: -
H: K10643
D: 976542
C: 98
I was sitting East.
We were vulnerable and NS were non-vulnerable. South dealt and passed. My
partner opened 1H. North doubled for takeout. What would you bid?
I chose 3H because we
were vulnerable - if we go down two it is already better for the opponents
than them making a non-vulnerable game. If we had not been vulnerable I
would have bid 4H, to try and prevent the opponents finding their certain
spade fit (and in the light of the subsequent bidding I wish I had). The
bidding proceeded as follows:
South West North East
P 1H Dbl 3H
3S 4H 4S 5D
P 5H 5S P
P Dbl P ?
With my distributional
hand I decided to show my second suit over North’s 4S bid. At least this
pushed them to the five level. My partner doubled and I passed. The hand
diagram is shown below:
S: QJ8762
H: 6
D: A
C: AK632
S: AK9 S: -
H: QJ982 H: K10543
D: KQJ D: 976542
C: 105 C: 98
S: 10543
H: A7
D: 1083
C: QJ74
With his strong hand
and the ace and king of trumps it is not surprising that my partner
doubled. However, 5S is cold - with North’s distribution the only possible
losers are the ace and king of spades. Can you see what my best bid would
have been over 5S doubled? Six diamonds! Provided my partner left it in
and that South led a spade, I would have been able to throw my two clubs on
the high spades and would only have lost the two red aces for one down. Of
course such a bid is only really possible when seeing all four hands, not at
the table, but I wish I had made it if only because it would have been such
a showy bid on three points! Six hearts, rather than six diamonds, would
not have worked because North would have been on lead and would likely have
cashed high clubs first.
If you have bridge
questions, or to send me your interesting hands, please contact me at:
[email protected].
|
