PSC Sea Fishing

Dene Mundy

Hello Fellow Anglers,

Seven intrepid fishermen (and ladies) braved the elements on our August 7 trip and were well rewarded with catches of over 50 pla-dang per head, together with a few groper and snapper.

A proud angler with his prize catch.

Rich Murphy was the champ with one prized fish - a coral trout about 2-2ฝ kilos. This species is regarded in Australia and parts of Asia as the number one preferred fish in restaurants and the boat captain said this fish sells in Ban Amphur at 1000 baht per kilo.

We returned 1 hour earlier than usual and were lucky to just beat the rain squall by a few minutes thanks to our captain keeping an eye out on the weather.

Our next monthly trip is booked for September 7 and we already have 7 confirmed attendees. We have room for one more so be quick to book for the remaining spot!

Due to numerous requests we have booked another trip on Tuesday August 17 and have 7 confirmed starters. Contact [email protected] or fishing coordinators Dene Mundy on 081 862 6279 or Rich Murphy on 084 783 3470 if you would like to fill the last place. 8 persons are considered maximum for pleasant fishing. The cost for each trip is 1500 baht per head.

Mascari puts on a golfing masterclass

The IPGC Monthly Medals

Wednesday, Aug. 4 - Mountain Shadow

There was another very fine turnout for the final round of IPGC Monthly Medals for this season despite the lowest of low seasons in Pattaya. The event was held at the challenging Mountain Shadow course on Wednesday, August 4 and the course was quite well prepared, except for some coring and a trace of dressing on the greens.

Gentlemen’s divisional winners: Steve Mascari, Trevor Schirmer and Rod Howett.

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 later in the season. 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 contest a stroke play format whilst the third division and ladies play stableford.

In the first division the new IPGC Champion Doug Lynch continued his form with a gross 75 giving him third place with level par net 72. In second place was Phil Mitchell with 71 net, but favourite Steve Mascari once again produced a gross 72 of exquisite quality to take the honours yet again. Surely Steve must now be rated as Pattaya’s number one golfer, regardless of association. This victory also saw him installed as the IPGC Gentleman Player of the Year, after a string of memorable scores over the whole year.

The second division saw Bob Maloney finish third with net 74, two behind Warren Gallop’s net 72. The best net round of the day was recorded by Trevor Schirmer who took the flight with a very creditable net 69.

In a competitive third division the returning Al Rolnik took third place with 31 stableford points, just one behind Kenny Priddy and another Haven regular and last month’s winner, Rod Howett, who ended the season in fine form with a performance of 33 points on the tough track.

The ladies division saw Orawan Meeraka take the win with 24 points.

In the ‘2’s competitions there was the usual rash of birdies in the top flight with Doug Lynch, Al Keith, Jason Cole, Masanori Takano, Rodney Hayes and Robert Lamond all enjoying a bonus whilst Trevor Schirmer and Warren Gallop joined them from the second flight and Al Rolnik and Geoff Braimbridge did likewise in the third flight. There were no ‘2’s in the ladies’ division.

Following the presentation buffet at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar on Soi Buakhao, generously sponsored as always by the IPGC, host organiser Len Jones warmly thanked all those who had worked hard all year to ensure the success of the competition, especially registrar Glyn Evans from Jomtien, starter Chris Knapp from the Haven, results coordinator Stephen Beard and the almost super-human efforts of event organiser Russell Exley for whom dedication, positive thinking and a thick skin are essential requirements!

Essentially the strong support regularly given to them by the membership of IPGC has ensured a successful start to what will be an intriguing element of IPGC golf for years to come.

Div. 1
1st Steve Mascari, net 70
2nd Phil Mitchell, net 71
3rd Doug Lynch, net 72
Div. 2
1st Trevor Schirmer, net 69
2nd Warren Gallop, net 72
3rd Bob Maloney, net 74
Div. 3
1st Rod Howlett 33pts
2nd Kenny Priddy 32pts
3rd Al Rolnik 31pts
Ladies
1st Orawan Meeraka 24pts

Rawlinson finds the right combination

Jomtien golf with the IPGC

Monday, Aug. 2, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

It was another overcast and cool day for this time of the year as we all arrived at the clubhouse and yet again we tee’d off 30 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.30. The cut in the stableford competition was 6-18 in Division 1 with 11 players and 19+ in division 2 with 13, plus five ladies in their own contest.

Friday prize winners Geoff Pickin and Noi Emmerson.

Still showing solid form, Miss Kung’s 33 points won her the ladies division with Mam Morel second one point behind.

At last, Barry Rawlinson got it together to come in with 41 points to win the second division. Rob Marston was second on 35 and Alan Bissell took third place on count-back over Ken Foster and Les Winch after they all came in with 31 points each.

Peter Seward’s 37 points was enough to win Division 1 and there were three contenders for the next two places, all with 34 points. After the calculations, Pers Kalsen was awarded second with 21 on the back nine and Andy Baber was third with 18. Poor Ben Findon was not in the reckoning with 14.

There were some good scores returned today considering the first group out encountered light drizzle on the ninth hole and this continued for the rest of the round and for the seven following.

Near pins today went to Miss Noi, Chris Voller, Alan Bissell, Miss Nom, Miss Kung (2), Pers Kalsen, David Phillips and Peter Seward.

In the ‘2’s today, a large rollover pot from Crystal Bay in division 1 was shared by Per Kalsen and Chris Voller after their birdies on the 12th and 5th respectively. It’s a rollover to St. Andrews in Division 2 and Noi Emmersons birdied the 5th to record the only ‘2’ in the ladies competition.

At the presentation back at Siam Cats, a bon voyage was said to ‘the old man’ as he leaves for the UK for 4 weeks and there was cheering all round in the bar. Have a good trip.

Friday, Aug. 6, Eastern Star – Stableford

The ladies monthly competition was held at Plutaluang the previous day so there were only two divisions out today and with dark clouds all around as we arrived it looked a dubious type of day weather wise.

All the groups went out and we survived until luckily the watering hole at the 11th tee where the rain came down and we had a 15 minute break. We carried on in slight drizzle and after a five minute rest on the 16th tee we continued the round rain free.

In his last game with us before his return to the UK with Celia, Geoff Pickin lost out to Mikael Andersson on a back nine count-back of 19/18 after they came in with 37 points each. Noi Emmerson won Division 2 with 33 points, beating Jim Lane on a 20/16 back nine count-back.

In the ‘2’s competition there were no winners today in Division 1 so this will be rolled over in a fortnights time as we have a one off competition this coming week with 12 lads from Hua Hin playing and providing a buffet back at Siam Cats for all golfers.

Avery floats to victory at Rayong C.C.

PSC golf from Cafe Kronborg

Monday, Aug. 2, Rayong C.C. – Stableford

With a number of golfers turning up at the Cafe Kronborg with wet shoulders, we had the Admiral boarding us up with the famous words “Lets Go” at precisely 8.15am.

Monday flight winners Paul Avery and Mike Winefield strike a pose with the Admiral.

The banter on the way to Rayong was all about “why are we bothering when the forecasts are for heavy rain in Bangkok all day?” The Admiral was as positive as ever, reminding the non believers that we would be able to play, as Rayong is not Bangkok. So 17 diehards lined up and the first group were underway by 9.40 a.m.

The last group were a gaggle of five (including the writer) and we soon caught up to the four in front as we all jostled for a position under the nearest cover after only two holes played. Amazing how we managed to fit nine golfers and nine caddies under an awning built to seat eight people. It was an hour and ten minutes before any let up of the deluge allowed us to untangle ourselves, much to the disappointment of a few who were quite comfortable hugging ... err … huddled next to their caddies!

This writer had time to be nursed by his caddy for the face injury sustained by an angry wasp which took offense to its tree being knocked by an errant back swing on the tree line of the second hole.

It was amazing that we were even able to continue to play the course as only moments earlier it was literally swamped, with greens and fairways looking like lakes. Alas, the bunkers continued to look like lakes for the rest of the round and quite a number of balls were unable to be retrieved as the rakes were not long enough to reach into the center of these new ponds!

Free drops were declared for balls in bunkers by our delegate for the day Mike Gosden. Incidentally, Mike will be taking over the reporting duties for the next three weeks as this writer (who is standing in for Peter Blackburn) is off to Vietnam and Cambodia for a look see.

Stuart Appleby’s history making 59 was almost superseded when our gaggle of five all made one putt pars on the notoriously difficult par five 17th hole - quite amazing as only one of the group was a single figure player.

The Compass Cap was won by Graham Buckingham, who was unfortunate as all seventeen golfers achieved scores in the 30’s, other than the A flight winner Paul Avery who, with the assistance of several free “pond” drops, had a superb round of 41 points. Second in A flight was ‘Mr. Consistent’ Mike Gosden and Takeshi Hakozaki yet again picked up some money for third.

B flight was taken out by Mike Winfield with an admirable 37 points, followed by Ken Bernek one shot back and Hugh O’Donnell a further shot back for third.

Welcomed visitors were Mr .Munter and Mr. Thomas.

There is no stick it to W.A.’s today as Martin Todd advised that their weather forecast was for a quite pleasant 24 degrees and clear skies in Perth, although he added that they will freeze their b...s off tonight whilst he walks around Pattaya in his T shirt and shorts!.

A Flight
1st Paul Avery (11) 41pts
2nd Mike Gosden (12) 34pts
3rd Takeshi Hakozaki (14) 31pts
B Flight
1st Mike Winefield (20) 37pts
2nd Ken Bernek (23) 36pts
3rd Hugh O’donnell (23) 35pts
Thursday, Aug. 5, Greenwood – Stableford

Meeting as usual at The Cafe Kronborg we departed at 0815 hours under cloudy skies. The Admiral, who had sustained an injury to his near side fetlock the previous Monday at Rayong, was withdrawn by order of the stipendary stewards under veterinary advice.

We arrived at the track at 0915 hours and a field of 13 faced the starter to tackle the A & C nines.

The starter hit the electric button and sent the field on their way at 0940 hours which saw the leaders move at a good clip and cross the finish line four hours later.

The greens were easy paced compared to the ones at Rayong the previous Monday, which were as slow as a turtle doing backstroke through custard. The weather was warm with a nice breeze and the track considered firm but slow.

One flight today and recent form suggested the favourite Martin Todd was the one to beat. This proved correct as he cantered to a comfortable win. In a photo finish for second, Paul Avery pipped Don Mackensie by a nose with the top weight in the field Walter Baechli making the frame in fourth place.

The much coveted Compass Cap was a no contest and Les Hall who found the going heavy, prevailed comfortably.

New starter in Harry Vincente from the United States was welcomed and returning from Australia, Paul Jackson is here to sample a small portion of the good life.

1st Martin Todd (7) 36pts
2nd Paul Avery (10) 34pts
3rd Don Mackensie (28) 34pts
4th Walter Baechli (18) 32pts

JJ battles through the weather to win at Emerald

The Ban Chang Golf Society

Competition winner JJ, center, with some of the helpers at Mama’s Bar.

On arrival at Emerald Golf Course everything looked fine, which just goes to show that appearances can be very deceiving. We welcomed back Andy C. which enabled us to have 3 groups this week. Everything was going well up until the eighth hole and then the heavens opened. You can tell the serious golfers from the guys who just turn up for fun because when it’s raining hard the latter walk off and the former keep going, even with rivers on the fairways.

JJ won the stableford comp with 33 points and Alan B. took the nearest the pin prize, which also included the rollover from the previous week. Skins results are as follows: John Mc (4); Dangle (4); JJ (3); Harry V (3); Tony D (3) and Alan B. (2).

No rollovers for next week which means a clean sheet for all.

All change at Bangpakong

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

August started well for the Pattaya Golf Society with a trip to the beautiful Bangpakong Riverside course between Chonburi and Chachoensao. The course is always wonderfully presented and the greens are amongst the best and most consistent anywhere. With good lies on the well maintained fairways an enjoyable golf experience is always in store.

On this occasion however golfers gasped when they found that the nines had been reversed and the hitherto friendly front nine had now become the back nine and the tougher second half was now the start. The course also has a unique indexing policy and it was a surprise to find the new fourth hole was a 200 yards par three, over water and into the wind to a pin situated behind a large bunker. Stroke eighteen of course!

However the golf was very competitive with Tony Thorne joining last week’s hero Masanori Takano in third place with 34 points. In second with 35 points was Peter Masters who had rushed to re-route from the other Bangpakong course with just minutes to spare, and the winner was the consistent Swiss golfer John Rehm with a level par 36 point return.

There were surprisingly no birdie ‘2’s on those splendid greens and the Booby Bevy went to Tony Thorne for an attempted backhand shot which cannoned off his shin, inflicting a painful penalty.

Bangpakong had represented a fine way to start the month. With the memory of the greens one is left with the simple question, “If they can do it here, why can they not do it at Eastern Star or Rayong C.C?”

Rehm’s
farewell forty

The Pattaya Golf Society visited Green Valley on Thursday, August 5 to play a stableford competition at the popular club. The course was well presented as usual and amazingly, in the depths of this desperate low season, the group managed to provide two flights, cut at fifteen and under.

In the top flight Mikael Andersson posted a score of thirty points for third place despite huge problems with his short putts. Wichai Tananusorn went one better with 31 points, stuttering throughout an inconsistent round, and the winner was Swedish visitor Tomas Gustafsson with 37 points.

In the second flight visitor Bob Dantini joined Len Jones for a share of second place with 37 points whilst John Rehm chose to sign out in style with an excellent forty points. His golf this trip has indeed been remarkably consistent.

The only birdie ‘2’ the day was recorded by Mikael Andersson and on the same hole Peter Masters almost slam-dunked his seven iron into the hole for an ace but it hit the bottom of the flag and rebounded to the fringe, leaving Peter with the Booby Bevy, not only as consolation for what might have been but also in celebration of his birthday. Chin up Peter, things will improve!

High scores again
at Emerald

The Pattaya Golf Society met at Emerald Golf Club in Ban Chang On Saturday, August 7, to play a stableford competition on the course which was in fine order under clear skies. Late withdrawals and even later inclusions meant that a relatively youthful (ha!) but strong hitting trio led off from the first on time and were later to feature highly in the frame.

Quality was also there and fourth place was occupied by Masa Takano with a steady 34 points whilst Paul McNally’s 35 points gave him third place and best gross figures of 78, hopefully restoring confidence to pull his game back together after a serious of drab performances.

Back to the lead group, as New Zealander Brad Dippie again used his strength to bludgeon 41 points out the course with playing partner Craig Morrison going even better with 44. Phew! It was all too much for the third member of the group, Paul Bartlett, whose total of 18 points betrayed his handicap of thirteen. The Booby Bevy was his only reward on a memorable day at Emerald.

Australia rules at Khao Kheow

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, Aug. 2, Khao Kheow - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Rodney Hayes (9) 37pts
2nd Don Everett (25) 36pts
3rd Warren Gallop (11) 34pts
4th Bob Lamond (6) 34pts
5th Trevor Schirmer (12) 33pts
6th Kenny Priddy (23) 33pts

With many of the Australian sports fans going through a serious low period, following the recent soccer and cricket world cups and the recent rugby Bledisloe Cup matches, they can take heart that in the golfing arena in Pattaya they have a few winners. Not least of these is Rodney Hayes, who is no stranger to some of those other sports, but it is in golf that he is currently helping to keep the flag flying on the top step of the podium.

Rodney Hayes.

Once again he stroked his way round the course and all the way to the top step of the winners list with a solid one under handicap round over the always difficult Khao Kheow A and C courses, off the yellow tees, which allied to the recent heavy rains made the going particularly tough, but with lift and place on the fairways as the local rule of the day the scoring was generally fairly good.

It seemed as if all the Australian competitors of the day were out to make up for a few disappointments with their national sportsmen as the next four players on the list were all Australian, led by that newly converted steady man Don Everett with a level handicap return. He led by two from Warren Gallop, who in turn just edged out Bob Lamond for third place, with a better count back of 17 to 15.

Chris Knapp.

Trevor Schirmer continues to perform very well, even after taking a two stroke drop in handicap, and he added to his country’s tally by taking the count back for fifth spot with a better back nine of 16 to 12 over Kenny Priddy. Kenny just managed to stop the clean sweep of the day’s podium, but was overheard ruing the fact that his dad couldn’t scrape together the ten quid required all those years ago which would surely have made the difference on the day.

Rod Howett scored the lone ‘2’ in the second division and Bob Lamond, Rodney Hayes and Fred Land had one each in the first division.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed back Andy Robinson.

Friday, Aug. 6, The Emerald - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Chris Knapp (17) 38pts
2nd Shuichi Kodaka (17) 38pts
3rd Al Keith (4) 38pts
4th Tony Barritt (14) 36pts
5th Trevor Schirmer (12) 34pts
6th Paul Hartley (20) 33pts

With Wednesday being taken over by the IPGC Monthly Medals with all the pressure that entails, it was a very relaxed crowd that made their way to the Emerald for a bit of R & R. Unfortunately the weather did not show it’s best side and the day had to be interrupted after just a few holes with all of the entries returning to the clubhouse as the course became waterlogged and unplayable to wait out the storm.

When play resumed after around an hour, little help could be found from the course although the greens were certainly holding well and again using lift and place in the fairways, the scores returned were quite respectable.

Chris Knapp continues to progress following his recent lessons, both practical and bookwork, with the Haven’s own “Freelessonsrus” Guru, and once again slipped into first place with a very competent two under handicap round which included a back nine of a par and eight bogeys and a total of 20 points. It was enough to see off the challenges of Shuichi Kodaka and the Guru himself, Al Keith, with Shuichi taking second spot with a better back six of 15 to 14 after he and Al had both covered the back half with 19 points.

Tony Barritt must surely have thought a level par round under the prevailing conditions would be enough to get a place on one of the top three steps of the podium, but with the leaders in such fine form it proved to be just a pipe (or roll up) dream as he eventually slipped into fourth place.

Following the outstanding efforts and results of some of the Aussie contingent on Monday, it was surprising that so few figured in the returns for the day but perhaps an overheard comment regarding their concern for the following days final Bledisloe Cup game and a some important AFL encounters, may have had a lot to do with the days lack of success as minds wandered from the game in hand. But still Trevor Schirmer managed to get in on the act once again with a solid two over round and with Paul Hartley rounded out the honourable mentions.

There were no ‘2’s in either division.

Back at The Haven, prior to the presentations, Roar Berger was welcomed back.

Note: An apology for last week’s report as a member of the winning team, Chris Davisson was erroneously referred to as Davidson, an error for which we unreservedly apologise.

If you would like to play with The Haven group you can contact mobile 084 782 4582 or call in to the hotel at 185 Soi 13 between Beach Road and 2nd Road. All transportation to the course is arranged and you do not need to sign up prior to the day, but you should be there by 8.30 on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays and Sundays on the days you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played can be found on our web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com

Murphy on the march

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

There is little doubt that the gods that be look down upon the Three Sisters Group when it comes to weather.

Wednesday winner Dale Murphy, left, with runner-up Sus Ige.

There were medium heavy showers until 6:30 a.m. at the Pattaya Country Club this past August 4, but as the groups teed off the rain had stopped and the clouds kept the course cool. Only one green (#4) was heavily sanded but many of the greens need major work. Perhaps a new greens keeper is needed?

As the groups sashayed to Caddy Shack II and Herbie’s famous hot dogs, the cards were tallied and the winner found. Dale Murphy again came through with 37 points followed by Sus Ige with 36. Herbie Ishinage and Larry Emerson both had 35 points and Paul Donahue came in with a 32, even after skunking at least 5 holes.

Seamus and Pierre on fire

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, Aug. 1, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Seamus Cotter (11) 37pts
2nd Chaten Patel (14) 37pts
B Flight
1st Pierre Bietry (15) 37pts
2nd Stefan Hoge (16) 36pts

Near Pins: No4 Claus Birk Thompson, No9 Doug Campbell, No12 Barry Elphick, No16 Yui Bietry.

Seamus Cotter and Pierre Bietry were the top performers at Green Valley.

Despite this being the worst low season on record, a fair sized group showed up minus a few sick and injured golfers, namely Jim ‘Capt Fogg’ Munns (dizzy spells), Bob Newell (just coming away at the seams) and Jack ‘Lou’ Spencer (sore back) all missing from the ranks.

Seamus ‘Captain’ Cotter made the effort and climbed off his sick bed to take the senior flight and co man of the match honours with a very close count-back 20/19 back nine victory over ‘Fast’ Chaten Patel, both locked on 37 points.

Jimmy ‘The Ladies Man’ Day put together a solid even par round but just missed out on the prizes.

Vice Captain Pierre Bietry also posted 37 points to win the junior flight honours, and co man of the match. The inform Stefan Hoge took second spot gaining a count back victory over the luckless Geoff Doody, 18/17.

Back at Lewiinski’s, the Irish eyes were smiling now that the black stuffs back.

Tuesday, Aug. 3, St. Andrews – Stableford
1st Gerry Hughes (20) 37 pts
2nd Seamus Cotter (11) 34 pts

The lure of the impeccably manicured St. Andrews and the favorable sports day prices attracted a small but very keen field that produced only one competitor Gerry Hughes to better his handicap. Gerry’s 37 points gave him the day’s honors.

Irishman Seamus ‘Captain’ Cotter continued to put his hand in the till with a count-back decision over fellow Irishman Peter Don ‘O’Corleone’ Henshaw, both three shots short of Gerry. No prizes for guessing were Gerry originates!

No ‘2’s were recorded so a rollover to Wednesday.

Wednesday, August 4, Treasure Hill - Stableford
1st Dave Dobson (10) 37pts
2nd Jim Bell (24) 35pts

The one thing you can count on is that whenever Treasure Hill is the venue, the scores are going to be low. The performance of the field was consistent with that assumption; that is if you don’t consider Aussie Dave Dobson as part of the field. Somebody forgot to tell Dave that this is the toughest course in the area with the possible exception of St. Andrews. Dave put together a solid 37 points for the match honors.

Aussie Jimmy ‘Houdini’ Bell, no stranger to the pay desk, took second place two shots back.

Kevin Maguire and Raspie ‘Homicide Hank’ Matzie’ split a handy rollover ‘2’s pot

If Tuesday belonged to the Irish then surely today belonged to the Aussies.

Friday, Aug. 6,
Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Takeshi Hazozaki (14) 44pts
2nd Mike Jeffreys (16) 37pts
3rd Jez Lees (18) 37pts

Well there it is! A score that would normally raise the hackles of a skeptical Pattaya golf community but which in this case received a congratulatory round of applause and hoots of “Great game!” Takeshi San blistered the C and A course for a remarkable 44 points off his departing 14 handicap. Remarkable in that this was Takeshi San’s first game back, after a four month layoff following stomach surgery.

Mike Jeffreys and the ‘Principle’ followed Takeshi San, albeit from a distance, this time the Principles’ mathematics didn’t add up.

Neil Cameron slotted home the only ‘2’ of the day.

Note: Lewinski’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.

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

We all get annoyed with our partners now and again (surely he/she knows to lead a heart - how could they be dumb enough to choose a club?)  However the prize so far for partnership friction surely goes to the Bennetts.  They have held this record for more than seventy years. 

I got a request to run this hand again (possibly from someone thinking of breaking that record), so here goes.

On Sept 29, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri, John and Myrtle Bennett sat down to play bridge against their neighbours, Charles and Mayme Hoffman.  John dealt the hand below and opened 1S.  His wife raised him to 4S.  Unfortunately, he went down.  His wife goaded him about his poor play.  The argument escalated to such a point that his wife shot him dead.  Not surprisingly, this created a sensation.  Myrtle was tried for murder, but the jury ruled the killing accidental.  It is reported that she continued playing bridge, but encountered some difficulty finding a partner.  South dealt. 

                        S: A1063

                        H: 1084

                        D: 4

                        C: A9842    

S: Q72                                   S: 4

H: AJ3                                  H: Q95

D: AQ1092                          D: KJ763

C: J6                                      C: Q753

                        S: KJ985

                        H: K762

                        D: 85

                        C: K10           

South      West           North      East

(John B)         (Charles H)        (Myrtle B)     (Mayme H)

1S            2D               4S             All pass 

John certainly overbid when he opened his ace-less 10 points.  I like Myrtle’s aggressive 4S call however.  West led the ace of diamonds and shifted to the jack of clubs.  South won the king in hand and led the jack of trumps (to tempt a cover by the queen).  When West did not cover, he went up with the ace and led the spade 10.  East showed out and he won with the king in hand.  Next, declarer trumped a diamond in dummy, played the ace of clubs and then the club nine.  East covered with the queen and declarer trumped with the five of spades.  West over ruffed with the queen and cashed the ace of hearts.

At this point, EW had taken three tricks.  So far, NS had taken only five tricks, two top spades, two top clubs and a diamond ruff and declarer had to take the rest.  This was the situation as West led a low heart: 

                           S: 6

                           H: 108

                           D: -C: 84   

S: -                                          S: -

H: J3(led)                              H: Q9

D: Q109                                D: KJ

C: -                                         C: 7

                           S: 98

                           H: K76

                           D: -

                           C: -               

Declarer won the heart lead with the king.  Unfortunately, he could not get to dummy to cash the good clubs and throw away his losing hearts.  So, he ran his trumps and went down two.  Overall, I like his line of play.  He was extremely close to making the contract.  He just made one small error.  Can you see what it was?

His error was ruffing the club with the five.  If he had only ruffed with the eight he could have saved his life!  Then, he can lead the five of spades to the six on board and cash the good clubs.  He makes the last five tricks with the king of hearts, two clubs and two trumps, for a total of ten tricks.  I wonder whether he had time to regret his error.

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

Flanagan shines on his big day

PSC golf from The Golf Club Sports Bar

Birthday boy Nigel Flanagan, front centre,
celebrates with the crowd at Soi Dao Country Club.

Monday, Aug. 2, Green Valley – Stableford
1st Bob McPhail (19) 40pts
2nd Robbie Bennett (22) 39pts
3rd Nigel Flanagan (17) 37pts
4th Jez Lees (18) 37pts

We played in some precarious weather today with some fine results when taking into consideration the conditions. Bob McPhail was today’s winner with 40 points while second went to Robbie Bennett on 39, nice to see Robbie finally turn it on and get in the winner’s circle. Third and fourth places were decided on count back and with a back 9 of 21 points Nigel Flanagan just edged Jez Lees who had a back nine of 20.

We truly had an international field today with no less than 9 countries represented. Thanks to all for joining in the fun.

Tuesday, Aug 3, Soi Dao – Stableford

It was with some nervous anticipation that we set out for the drive to Soi Dao and we arrived to find overcast skies but remarkably no rain was encountered by the end of play on day 1. We had a great turn out and managed four men’s 4-balls and one ladies 4-ball.

Day 1 play was off the yellow tees for the men and coming in first place was Ian Jones (20) with a fine 42 points but only edging Nigel Flanagan (42pts) on the count-back. John Emmerson (12) took third spot with his 38 point return and Jez Lees (18) was in fourth on 37.

Yui Bietry (14) topped the ladies flight with 35 points ahead of Miss Mon (14) on 34 points and Amphan North (10) on 27.

Near pins were picked up by Yui Bietry and Don Bland, who both converted them into 2’s. Robbie Bennett also took a share of the pot with a pair of ‘2’s himself.

The dinner and awards presentation was followed by lots of celebration and some pretty funny Karaoke. The Pattaya crooner himself was in attendance, Bob Newell, who led the way and as the glasses of courage were consumed, more and more joined in.

Greg Ritchie is not only the best dressed golfer, he also does a great Barry Gibb medley! The birthday boy Nigel Flanagan and Brad ‘10 cans’ Sproxton somehow got near the microphone and made Neil Diamond wince. Their impromptu duet called “Sandbagger” sung to “Sweet Caroline” made for some gut wrenching laughter and finger pointing! Oh the 7 a.m. tee was going to hurt!

Wednesday, Aug 4, Soi Dao – Stableford

Day 2 was played under sporadic showers and some thundering headaches.

The men’s division was played from white tees today and Don Bland shot a wonderful 73 off the stick! His 39 points was best on the day. John Emmerson played consistent and made the frame again, but the birthday boy continued to shine on his big day as he came in with 38 points for second to just push John into third on count-back. John Murdoch (12) was fourth on 35 points.

Yui Bietry once more headed the ladies home with a fine 37 point haul. She finished three ahead of second placed Amphan North while Miss Mon was third on 33 points.

Am North and Jim Dundon shared the ‘2’s pot and Greg “Barry Gibb” Ritchie picked up the Lucky Draw prize.

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.

Capt. Jack picks up the gauntlet

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Pottsy (had a ‘2’ on Friday) and Murray (3rd Div A)
with Doone and Elaine from Doonan on the Sunshine Coast.

Joey’s Column

Monday, Aug. 2, Burapha - Stableford

Playing the A (blue tees) and C (white tees) nines, the course once again was in splendid condition equal to any in this area in my opinion.

It was raining as we drove to the course, drenching the early starters who were unable to finish, but it only rained during the first two holes for the remainder of the 22 Outbackers and then cleared up for a great day out for all. We had a couple of chaps, whom shall remain nameless, that sort of missed the Burapha Road turn off by some miles and when they paid the toll on highway 7; the chap there kindly pointed them in the right direction and let them do a U turn. Apart from that it was a normal day; the scores were not that smart and we didn’t have the excuse the boys playing Green Valley had as it rained like hell on them for their last nine holes.

Sel Wegner (34pts) once again found his way to the top, following his win on Friday at St. Andrews (I think General Jack is eyeing is handicap), with a win here in Div A from Aussie visitor Greg Flanagan with the same score. Bob Finley headed three players all with 33 points to take third.

In Div B, Ivan Plunkett (36pts) had a comfortable three point victory over Sakorn (33pts) and Bert Lewis (32pts), who was having his last game with the Outback before returning to Japan.

There were just two ‘2’s from Tony Garnett and Pete Stonebridge.
Div A (0-13)
1st Sel Wegner (14) 34pts
2nd Greg Flanagan (14) 34pts
3rd Robert Finley (14) 33pts
Div B (14+)
1st Ivan Plunkett (21) 36pts
2nd Sakorn Pramoolchart (23) 33pts
3rd Bert Lewis (19) 32pts

Monday, Aug. 2, Green Valley - Stableford

We returned to the alternate schedule today after an absence of two weeks with a full complement of 16 Outbackers at the ever popular Green Valley. It was very wet underfoot with persistent rain throughout, however the course stood up to it well and was in great shape.

In spite of the conditions there was some very good scoring with the ‘Sugarman’ leading the way on 39 points, followed in by Mark McDonald with 37. Pottsy found his form at last, after a long time in the wilderness (or was it the Aussie bush?) with 36 points to take third, ahead of a whole bunch with 34 points and another load with 33.

There were only two ‘2’s, one from Suzi Lawton and the other from Pottsy.

1st Sugar Ray Handford (19) 39pts
2nd Mark McDonald (5) 37pts
3rd Campbell Potts (18) 36pts
4th Geoff Doody (21) 34pts
5th Rick Evans (6) 34pts

Tuesday, Aug. 3, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

It was a ‘lucky 13’ Outbackers who played in the regular weekly competition at Pattaya Country Club, which, like most courses was not busy and in reasonable shape. The weather was perfect for golf – the early morning rain had cleared before the first group went off and we were treated to a comfortable cool day with a slight breeze.

With 13 players it was one division plus ‘2’s.

In top spot was the occasional Outbacker, Roger Yabsley (26) with 38 points, who could have finished with a great deal more after 23 on the front nine alone but a couple of the wheels came off towards the end and Geoff Moodie was complaining about the rope burns on his leg from the ‘anchor’. Second place went to ‘Our Arthur’, yes in the frame again, Arthur Bailey (23) with 37 points and the ever improving Larong (27) filled third place, beating the day’s organiser ‘Chad’, aka Barry Chadbourn (18) on countback – both having 36 points.

There was a ‘jackpot 2’ from General Jack.
The Outback plays Pattaya Country Club each Tuesday at 0930.
1st Roger Yabsley (26) 38pts
2nd Arthur Bailey (23) 37pts
3rd Laong (27) 36pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (18) 36pts
Wednesday, Aug. 4, Phoenix - Stableford

Last week here, there were only nine players, but this week we were turning players away as the field was full with our allotted 6 groups and Phoenix claimed they could not give us any more tee times. So, a big sorry to those we had to turn away.

For the 24 Outbackers who did play the Lake and Ocean nines, it was a dry day in pleasant temperatures, played at a reasonable pace and the course was in good condition although the back nine greens (Ocean) seemed a little dead.

Paul Smith excelled to win Div A by two with 38 points (73 gross) although by his standards he was a little disappointed to have bogeyed the first three holes on Ocean; even though he birdied all four par fives. He headed a three-way tie, all on 36, between Chris Fletcher, Bobby Driggs and his mate, Colin Greig; who finished in that order, after the usual count-backs.

Ken McCarthy had thrown down the gauntlet to Jack for a match, after a bit of banter at the Outback bar a couple of nights previously. Ken had volunteered to give Jack an undisclosed number of shots in the challenge, resulting in a number of side bets being taken up. Ken, after electing to concentrate on the match by not playing in the main tournament, got off to a bad start, playing the wrong ball into the green on his first hole. He followed that by losing the next two holes as well, three down after three. Although he righted the ship a little on the back nine, a costly three putt on the par 3 14th just about ended his chances.

The match ended up as a win for Jack, 4 and 3 but it spurred him on to play the best he’s played for a while, picking up 39 points in the round, enough to win Div B by one from Bernie Stafford (38pts) and Bob Lindborg with 35.

There were two ‘2’s from Suzi Lawton and Joe Mooneyham.

Div A (0-12)
1st Paul Smith (3) 38pts
2nd Chris Fletcher (11) 36pts
3rd Robert Driggs (12) 36pts
Div B (13+)
1st Jack Moseley (13) 39pts
2nd Bernie Stafford (15) 38pts
3rd Bob Lindborg (20) 35pts
Friday, Aug. 6, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Thirty-two Outbackers took to the fairways to give Khaow Kheow a going over but apart from two players, the course was yet again the winner on the day.

Chris Fletcher had a couple of mates over from Aus but had a terrible time finding the Outback on his way back. His car was seen, but the place shall remain nameless.

Playing B and C it turned out to be a beautiful day with no rain (unlike Pattaya where it poured down) and just a light breeze making for a good temperature. It was great watching from the side lines (Capt’ Bob was having a day off) as the players were drowning balls on the 9th and 18th. All in all a great day at the price and a free pint when you get in - fantastic value for money.

Bobby Driggs was the star of the day with a top score of 38 points to win Div A from Mark McDonald (5) who produced another good round to take second with 36, and it was a welcome back to Muzza who sneaked into third with 35.

Div B was won by John Cogan (35pts) three clear of Sakorn (32pts) and two with 31 points headed by David Day.

There were only two ‘2’s from Bobby Driggs and Pottsy
Div A (0-15)
1st Robert Driggs (12) 38pts
2nd Mark McDonald (5) 36pts
3rd Murray Hart (15) 35pts
4th Greg Flanagan (14) 35pts
Div B (16+)
1st John Cogan (18) 35pts
2nd Sakorn Pramoolchart (21) 32pts
3rd David Day (21) 31pts
4th Billy Fitzgerald (16) 31pts

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.

Derek does the double in style

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, Aug. 3, Plutaluang - Stableford

Tuesday saw the welcome return of landlord Ray after a long layoff. It was not an auspicious return but it was great to see him having a hit again and I am sure it won’t be long before he is back in the swing.

Double winner Derek, with some trophy he found.

Today we had travelled down to Sattahip to play Plutaluang, with the South & North providing our test. Derek Waterworth (32), who has been having a bit of a lean trot lately, was to the fore with 32 points, while Brian Ferrigno (25) just edged Keith Hodges (24) into third spot after a count-back 15 to 12 - both the boys recording 31 points.

Not great scores, but the course was in good condition, although playing long after heavy overnight rains had required the implementation of lift, clean & place, as per PSC guidelines.

The near pins were picked up by John, Jeff, Derek and Ken.

Thursday, Aug. 5,
Treasure Hill - Stableford

Thursday dawned with clear skies, as we headed north along Hwy 331 to Treasure Hill, which is currently in the best condition I can remember. Currently some more course improvements are underway and this great test of golf continues to get better all the time.

As the headline suggests it was Derek Waterworth (32) who tamed the beast today, with an exceptional 38 points, especially when you consider some of the other measly scores returned by today’s crew. Best of the rest was Ken Hole (14) with 30 points, while the near pins were secured by Jeff and Les, with Bob getting 2.

Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf generally on Tuesday & Thursday (we sometimes change to accommodate a Thai Holiday). Presentations are made at the course on Tuesday, with Mulligans Lakeside hosting the Thursday presentation. For more details on scheduling etc, please call Jeff 089 094 1841 or Ray 081 935 8088. Hope to see you there, Cheers & Good Golfing!

Café Kronborg staying the course

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

The lanes proved to be a challenge in week eight of the Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League as there were no 200 scores posted. Just falling short of the 200 mark was Joe Ferral of USMC, rolling a score of 194, the high score of the day, in his first game of their match with House of the Golden Coin. Joe also rolled the highest scratch series of the day (552), however USMC was only able to pull out a 2–2 split in their match.

Tue Pettae of Green Tree fell just one point short, rolling a score of 193 in her first game with Bavaria followed by Sue Murphy, Café Kronborg, who rolled a 191 score in her first game with Jack Tar.

Although the lanes were tough and appeared to have broken down a little after game one, indicative of the three highest scores posted were in the first game of their respective matches, it wasn’t enough to slow the pace of league leading team Café Kronborg. Café Kronborg took all four points from team Jack Tar and extended their lead to 3.5 games over VFW Post 9876 and dropping Jack Tar from third place last week to a tie for fifth place with team Canada.

VFW Post 9876 managed to somewhat keep pace with a three to one win over Sabai Friday and hold firmly to second place. Green Tree overpowered Bavaria 3.5 to 0.5 in their match. The half point attributed to each team was as a result of a 526 to 526 tie in game two of their match.