Big hitters have a field day at Khao Kheow

PSC golf from The Bunker Bar

Monday, August 23, Crystal Bay - Medal

Good weather today, however the course was showing signs of damage due to recent heavy rain, so “pick, clean and place” was the order of the day.

Most golfers struggled with the difficult conditions, but Geoff Parker and Takeshi were having their best rounds for quite some time. The wheels came off for Geoff on the 17th hole, where he carded a 9, but still managed to record an excellent net 69.

Takeshi was superb on the par 3’s, putting two tee shots to within twelve inches of the hole and recording three ‘2’s in the round, something not seen very often in Bunker history.

Near pins were claimed by Geoff Parker, Reid Sheffall and Takeshi (2).

1st Takeshi Hazo (13) net 67
2nd Geoff Parker (16) net 69
3rd Reid Sheffal (0) net 73
Wednesday, August 25, Phoenix - Stableford

We arrived at Phoenix in good time, and were able to tee off early, which is a very rare event at this course. The weather was fine and the course was unusually quiet and in good condition, so the round progressed without any holdups.

Given the good conditions, the scores were not as good as usual, with no golfer bettering their handicap. Mashi continued his good run of form to take first place, whilst Peter Habgood consolidated his lead in the ‘Golfer of the Month’ competition by securing second place ahead of Roger Privett.
Near pins went to Hai Sul, Reid, and Mashi (2).

1st Mashi Kaneta (10) 35pts
2nd Peter Habgood (17) 33pts
3rd Roger Privett (16) 32pts
Friday, August 27, Khao Kheow - Stableford

It was a good day today for those who normally find the Khao Kheow course to be too demanding. We played the C and A nines and discovered that all the yellow tees on the C nine had been moved forward to the white tees, thereby removing the teeth from what is normally a very difficult track.

The big hitters reveled in the shortened course and near perfect conditions, and scores reflected that. Peter Habgood hit the shot of the day on the par 5 eighth hole, sending his drive over the trees, and leaving a wedge shot into the green – easy game! Eddie Martin produced a superb performance to romp home with 45 points (normally unheard of at Khao Kheow), closely followed by Tony Robbins with 41 points, and Peter Habgood finishing third with 38 points to virtually wrap up the ‘Golfer of the Month’ title. Near pin winners were John Hughes, Mashi and Geoff Parker (2).

1st Eddie Martin (17) 45pts
2nd Tony Robbins (14) 41pts
3rd Peter Habgood (17) 38pts

Cotton shines at damp Bangpakong

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s top four: Mashi Kenata, Frank Pilkington,
Bernie Cairns and Thomas Cotton.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, August 24, Bangpakong – Stableford

We like to go up to play Bangpakong at least every couple of months, so it was with a sense of anticipation that we loaded into our cars and started the journey up there. What was once a dreaded journey is now but a nice drive and if it is over the hour it is not by much, and only by the careful few. The trip back seems even quicker so there is no reason not to go there now, except the negotiations needed for a (fair) green fee. Dick beavered away at this and when we arrived the result was quite good.

The drive up there put doubt in our minds as for about a third of the way it really hammered it down with rain, then it cleared up and we arrived at Bangpakong under reasonable skies, indeed when we booked in we were told we could take the carts on the fairway. But to be honest the fairways were very wet and you had to be careful, but only in places was it really soggy.

With the fairways so wet we decided to play the yellow Tees at 6,300 yards, still a fair walk (not spoilt) on an overcast but cool day. Indeed it did rain on the way around but it never got heavy enough to slow us down.

With a damp course we naturally did not get much run, but what a pleasure to play here and that is probably why we started with three groups more than we had planned. With the course fairly empty we went around at our own speed and that was pretty good. The greens, despite the dampness were really fast and true, a pleasure to play on.

Back at Bert’s the place seemed packed with the large numbers we had, but soon the food had been consumed and we got down to the winners.

Last week the scores were pathetic with the A Flight won with 34 points and the B Flight with 32 points, this week the winners would need ten points more. One of the pleasures of Bangpakong is that it allows you to have a great day and come back with a good score.

The winner of the A Flight (0-19) was Mashi Kaneta with 42 points, ahead of Frank Pilkington in second with 41 points. In third was the scribe with 39 points ahead of Doug Maiko with 38 points on count-back over Andre Van Dyk.

The winner of the B Flight (20-up) was Thomas Cotton with 44 points ahead of Bernie Cairns in second with 41 points. In third was P.S. Basi with 39 points on count-back over Daryl Evans.

The end of a great day was sitting and enjoying a few ‘cold uns’ on happy hour with friends and telling the story of the shot, or put, that got away. T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: Mike Phillips, Tom Cotton, Ted Morris, Mashi Kenata
Long Putt: Keith Phillips, Andrea Denti

‘Shark’ has a big win

PSC golf from The Cafe Kronborg

The Drut

Monday, August 23, Bangpra – Stableford

Nineteen golfers arrived at the course at 9 a.m. and after booking in we made our way to the first tee for the commencement of the day’s entertainment.

The starter sent us on our way under cloudy skies at 0930 hours and the first group finished in the smart time of 4 hours and 30 minutes.

The fairways were a bit muddy for the first few holes however they improved thereafter and on the flipside (back nine) they were good.

We welcomed Graham Buckingham back today after his sojourn to Hua Hin where he won the overall four day competition. Graham is always good for a quote and when asked how did he find the greens today he remarked, “I walked down those long strips of grass and there they were on the end of each one”.

It would be parsimonious of me not to mention the efforts of Ron Folks. Ron said that he didn’t play golf today, it was more like an adventure. From the middle of the fourth fairway he had a big swipe which resulted in a fish ( #*@# it’s still here). A repeat dose down the 5th saw Ron who started with a haircut only second to Don King finish with one akin to Yul Brynner. He soldiered on gallantly however in cricketing parlance he didn’t trouble the scorers for 17 holes.

Graham Buckingham assisted checking the cards which was much appreciated.

Doug Maiko who triumphed in the A flight with 34 points has discovered the antidote for poor putting - chip in! His driving was also an absolute feature of his game.

In second place today was Martin Todd with 33 points, third spot saw Ken Bernek with 32 points relegate Mike Gosden with 31 points to fourth place.

In the B flight the placings were tighter than the skin around Joan Rivers’ eyes, resulting in Graham Buckingham with 32 points taking first place followed by Ronnie Ratte on 31 points, Hugh O’Donnell with 30 points came third and in fourth place was Brian Noguer on 27.

The long putt on the 9th went to Mike Winfield and on the 18th nobody managed to nail one, so an appropriate probing question considering we were at Bangpra, was put to the gathered throng at presentations to decide a winner and Martin Todd was correct. What is the principal difference between a monkey and an ape?

Dave Neal who collected the coveted Compass Cap remarked that his game had the smell of a 10 day dead mud crab and he saw that many bunkers it would have required a caravan of camels to traverse them.

A Flight (0–20)
1st Doug Maiko (14) 34pts
2nd Martin Todd (7) 33pts
3rd Ken Bernek (20) 32pts
4th Mike Gosden (11) 31pts
B Flight (21+)
1st Graham Buckingham (22) 32pts
2nd Ronnie Ratte (30) 31pts
3rd Hugh O’Donnell (23) 30pts
4th Brian Noguer (21) 27pts
Thursday, August 26, Plutaluang –Stableford

Another group of nineteen golfers contemplated what the day held for them as they awaited the journey to the Navy course. A reverent hush fell over the gathered assembly as the Admiral, who’d been on the injured list for some time, announced he would be playing today.

At the course the starter advised we would be combating the South and East nines and the first group teed off at 0920 hours in excellent golfing weather.

There had obviously been a great deal of precipitation recently as the level of the lakes was the highest anyone could recall.

Despite the first few fairways being muddy in places, carts were permitted on them and the remainder were in good condition.

The greens were slower than a New Year’s Eve party at your maiden aunt’s however sanity prevailed and the short rough had been cut to an acceptable level. Comment was made that the deep rough looked like Dave Richardson’s moustache on growth hormones.

Stu Rifkin, fresh from holidaying in Cambodia and Vietnam, showed the break had agreed with him as he blitzed the A flight with a magnificent 40 points. Owen Walkley with consistent nines was second on 37 points, Walter Baechli played steadily for third spot with 35 points and Doug Maiko completed the flight with 31.

Popular golfer Ronnie Ratte scored a great 39 points to run away with top spot in the B flight, Bent Moeller, who had a good day with 35 points came second, whilst Hugh O’Donnell, who handed in a 33 point card placed third and Henry Wong rounded out the flight in fourth

Ken Bernek collected the coveted Compass Cap and we welcomed Alan Sanders and Barry McIntosh from Australia for today’s round.

A Flight (0–18)
1st Stu Rifkin (17) 40pts
2nd Owen Walkley (16) 37pts
3rd Walter Baechli (18) 35pts
4th Doug Maiko (14) 31pts
B Flight (19+)
1st Ronnie Ratte (30) 39pts
2nd Bent Moeller (27) 35pts
3rd Hugh O’Donnell (23) 33pts
4th Henry Wong (28) 31pts

Monks get the winning habit

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, August 23, Century Chonburi – Stableford.

The ladies have returned so it was back to normal today with their own competition and two divisions for the men. The course here still remains in reasonable condition and for the first time we noticed many caddies not employed by golfers today were working throughout the course to improve the conditions, well done Century Chonburi.

(Left-right): scramble runners up Mikael Andersson and Barry Rawlinson with tournament winners Cully and Josie Monks.

It was an overcast day and with a cool breeze this made conditions very acceptable, but the scores returned in all three divisions did not show to this.

In division 2 Terry Redding finished third with 29 points, Gordon Everingham was two points ahead in second, and the winner today with 33 points was Tom Novak.

The same score won division 1 for Tage Didrichsen, with ‘Count-Back’ Burnie in second place one point behind and Chris Voller third on 30 points.

Noi Emmerson took out the ladies contest with 32 points and Mam Morel was second one point behind her.

Miss Noi and Miss Nom won the nearest the pins on the 4th and 17th but there were no 2’s for the ladies today, and rollover ‘2’s also ensued for the men in both divisions.

Wednesday, August 25, Green Valley - Canadian Scramble.

A field of 36 players out today and with a few alterations overnight there were 18 teams with a player in division 1 and a partner in division 2 (19+ handicap ) in a pairs Canadian scramble, our fun game on the last Wednesday of each month.

Despite a slight delay for rain we still got off five minutes ahead of schedule and selected the white tees for the men on the first hole that totally erased the 185 yard carry over the water. There were only 11 points separating all teams out today and with 47 points in fifth position were Andy Baber and Miss Nom, just losing out on a back nine count-back of 22/21 to Brian Blackford and Joe Kubon. Another count-back ensued for second and third places with Ya Riley and Noi Emmerson being edged 8/7 on the back three by Mikael Andersson and Barry Rawlinson after both pairing came in with 48 points each, 25 on the back nine and 16 on the back six.

The winners today with a remarkable two holed wedges from off the green on the last two holes were Cully and Josie Monks with 50 points, well done to you both.

It was a popular format and the first for some players but enjoyable and something different.

Technical prizes were distributed as follows: Near pins (Individual) Keith Hector, Miss Nom (2), Bill Hewitt, Christer Olsson, Jean Morel, Tom Novak, Mam Morel, Terry Tucker and Tony Cowe.

Team 2’s were recorded by Harry Vincenzi and Burnie Sinclair, Cully Monks and Josie Monks, Bill Hewitt and Les Winch, Andy Baber and Miss Nom, and lastly Brian Blackford and Joe Kubon.

Friday, August 27, Eastern Star – Stableford.

The greens are still improving slightly each week here but there is still a long way to go compared to other courses in the area. There were still three divisions out today and after his win with the other half on Wednesday Cully Monks was in the winnings yet again, taking top podium position in division 2 with 33 points. Ian Hart was second with 31 points and the same score won division 1 for Don Head with Simon Tillbrook taking second with 30 points.

There were two 33’s in the ladies division but Miss Nut got the upper hand, beating Miss Tukta on a 19/14 count-back.

Tom Sathrum birdied the 17th hole to win the rollover ‘2’s in division 1 and now there are two rollovers in division 2 for next week.

Medals for Rock and Peach

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, August 23, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Stan Kure (13) 40pts
2nd Russell Exley (7) 32pts
3rd Rodney Hayes (9) 29pts

With a smaller group than usual, a last minute change to the schedule was organised to play a course that has not seen much action from the Soi 13 players. It was a pleasant surprise to find the greens receptive, with the recent rains obviously having helped a great deal to soften them, and although rather on the slow side they played well enough to attract little criticism at the end of play.

Robin Peach.

The biggest problem was the general difficulty due to the recent weather, which apart from the winner proved to be the downfall of most of the contenders.

Stan Kure took full advantage of his steady game off the tee and a solid putting game that did not allow a single three-putt all day, which left him an easy winner by an eight point margin over Russell Exley, whose usual competitive edge was slightly blunted by the conditions, as was Rodney Hayes’, who finished a further three behind in third place.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division, but Russell Exley slipped the lone one in the first division to sweep the pool which included a roll over.

Wednesday, August 25, Bangpra - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Russell Exley (7) 34pts
2ndAlan Pilkington (10) 33pts
3rd Stan Kure (13) 32pts
4th Rodney Hayes (9) 32pts
5th Orawan Meeraka (29) 31pts

Another very tough day on the always tricky Bangpra layout meant a non-counting day for handicap purposes as Russell’s score on the previous Sunday had not taken effect on his handicap, and his 34 points was a three over round which left no player at two over or better, thus triggering the non-counting ruling.

Stan Kure.

With the greens a lot slower than those usually found at this course, the player still needed to be below the hole on almost every green to stay in with a chance to make it a two green. This transformed a very good course into a bit of a monster as far as scoring was concerned and was fairly reflected in the scores returned.

Russell Exley continued with his fine run in the week with another win but by a single point from Alan Pilkington, who has also been in good form of late.

Stan Kure was again to be found among the prize winners as he took third place by virtue of a better count-back of 16 to 14 over Rodney Hayes, who is struggling to get back to the top of the leader board following his early successes after returning from Oz. Orawan Meeraka just slipped into the honourable mentions another shot back.

Alan Pilkington had the only 2 in the first division and once more there were none in the second division as the pot continues to grow.

Friday, August 27, Phoenix (Blue Tees) - Monthly Medals
CSS 74
Div. 1
1st Marty Rock (11) net 74
2nd Rodney Hayes (9) net 75
3rd Stan Kure (13) net 78
Div. 2
1st Robin Peach (17) net 77
2nd Derek Holt (22) net 79
3rd Chris Knapp (17) net 81

Playing from the blue tees after so much recent rain turned out to be a bigger challenge than most of the contenders could manage as the scores spiraled upwards, especially in the second division where the best of the day was five over handicap by Robin Peach. This was a win which left Robin slightly bemused and latter befuddled after celebrating long into the evening, following the prize giving, with two of the Haven’s best draughtsmen, but when one wins a monthly medal, and especially the first, it is almost expected that it should be marked in some conspicuous way.

Derek Holt played a lot better than of late, taking second spot in the second division a further two shots behind with Chris Knapp, unusually being unable to make his local knowledge count to good effect, another two back in third.

Marty Rock took full advantage of his prodigious length off the tee, followed by some exquisite second shots to the pins, to capture his first monthly medal out of the Haven with a very good even handicap round that was even more impressive allowing for the extremely damp conditions.

Rodney Hayes was once again left bemoaning a missed chance of a win after taking a bad bogey on the last hole when a win with a par looked more certain after a very nice drive, but was just unable to close the door on a pretty good day’s golf.

Stan Kure took his, by now usual, place on the podium with a bit more of a struggle than in his earlier outings in the week.

Again there were no 2’s in the second division but Marty Rock had two to underline his domination of the day and sweep the first division pot.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed Trevor Schirmer back from the far north where he had been surveying suitable estates for possible future expansion, fortunately for the players from Soi 13 he did not spot any good opportunities, so will still be looking after them in the near future.

Note: 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

Derek does it again; Graham on the comeback

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, August 24, Rayong C.C. - Stableford

Tuesday dawned with clear skies and a light breeze as we headed off on Hwy 36 to Rayong C.C. Here we found a management that have realised we’re all in tougher times and have offered a number of promotional price formats, something to suit just about everybody.

Mulligans landlord Ray, left, with Tuesday winner Derek Waterworth, center, and Ken Hole, right.

On to the golf, the course was in good nick; fairways well grassed, greens rolling smooth, great condition with great value. Derek Waterworth (31) found the course very much to his liking, romping away with a well compiled 39 points. Next best was our recently returned International jet-setter, Graham Hiskett (13) with 33 points.

Graham and Derek were also leading the way with the near pins; Graham getting two while Derek and Ken each had one.

Thursday, August 26, Greenwood - Stableford

Thursday saw a small field travel north to Greenwood, where the course is also in good condition, but hardly anybody there to play it. The C & A layout was to be our test today, so the format was altered to accommodate the field, prize money to be split front 9, back 9 & overall, with the near pin returns reduced.

Early on it looked like there could only be one winner, but I think maybe he started looking at his card more than the golf course and a potential good score slipped away. Graham Hiskett (13) slipped in to win the front 9 with a steady, if unspectacular, 16 points. Jeff Wylie (5) did best of the back 9, with a meagre 15 points, which when combined with his early 9 of 14, was enough to give him the overall, edging the early favourite Ken Hole on count-back.

Near pins were collected by Graham with two, while Jeff got one, the other providing a donation to the Banglamung Boy’s Home.

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!

Ploy top scores at Diana Open

Diana Golf August Seniors and Ladies Open

Nigel Cannon

Thursday, August 26, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

The last Thursday of the month saw 20 seniors and ladies taking part in the monthly Diana Seniors and Ladies Open at Pattaya Country Club.

August Diana winners: Freddy Starbeck, Ploy Thongpen and Arthur Bailey.

It was a fine day for golf, sunny and with a little breeze making it comfortable. As is usual we received a warm welcome from the PCC staff and we were away before our allotted tee time on a course that was in a fair condition, with evidence of work being carried out.

Two new faces today – Freddy Starbeck from Denmark and David Day, who is a ‘local lad’.

Returning after a long absence was Ploy Thongpen (9) with a fine 39 points to win the Ladies and recording the ‘best of the day’! Runner-up was Su Murphy (27) with 37 points.

In the Seniors (50– 64) it was new comer Freddy Starbeck (25) winning on count-back from Bo Engstrom (12), also with 38 points.

It was ‘same again’ as last month for the winner in the Super Seniors (65+) with ‘our Arthur’ aka Arthur Bailey (22) recording 37 points with other newcomer David Day runner-up with 36.

All scores are submitted to Pattaya Sports Club.

The September Diana Seniors and Ladies open is on Thursday Sept. 30 at Pattaya Country Club with a tee time of 9 a.m. Sign-up sheets are at the Diana Green Bottle 2nd road and the Diana Driving range.

Ladies
1st Ploy Thongpen (9) 39pts
2nd Su Murphy (27) 37pts
Seniors
1st Freddy Starbeck (25) 38pts
2nd Bo Engstrom (12) 38pts
Super Seniors
1st Arthur Bailey (22) 37pts
2nd David Day (18) 36pts
Near Pins: #5 Mike Coleman, #7 Ploy Thongpen, #12 Arthur Bailey, #16 Bill Johnson
Long Putts: #9 Bo Engstrom, #18 Bill Johnson

Pattaya golf outlets provide fresh drinking water for Baan Jing Jai

Some of the children at Baan Jing Jai pose in front of their new fresh water dispenser. The PSC’s Charity Chairman William Macey is standing right rear.

Every child in Pattaya should have access to clean drinking water for the health of everyone depends on this facility. Khun Piantah received some good news recently when two of the Pattaya Sports Club’s affiliated golf outlets, Lewinski’s Golf Bar and the Phoenix Tuesday Club, each had a golf day and with some help from Pattaya Sports Club provided sufficient funds to install a machine to provide fresh drinking water to all the children and to decorate many areas in the 2 houses.

Rick Bevington – Father Christmas to everyone that knows him – took the opportunity to cast his red uniform aside to paint the houses and helped install the drinking machine.

Pattaya Sports Club has been supporting Baan Jing Jai for some many years, the main area of support to pay the rent on their 2 houses in Nern Plabwaan Road. A minor setback occurred recently when a plot of land that they were developing to provide fresh vegetables was taken over by the owner to build – yes you guessed it – badly needed shop houses. So it is back to regular visits to the local market.

Heddle puts on a master class in Hua Hin

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s column

Monday, August 23, Burapha - Stableford

Whilst a large contingent from the Outback were away in Hua Hin competing in a three day tournament, it was left to a small group of just eleven superbly honed Outbackers to uphold the flag at the resident Monday venue. Just as well we were there, as nobody else was apart from Thaworn Wiratchant and his mates practising on B & D for the upcoming Thailand Open.

Hua Hin runaway winner Ian Heddle and his lovely caddie at Black Mountain G.C.

Dave Boran, on a yet another of his flying visits, produced an excellent round, considering it was his first here for a little while, scoring 35 points to take second place. He and Jack had a glorious little ‘Ashes’ match against the Aussie pairing of Chris Fletcher & Mark Broome, which I am delighted to report the Brits won 2 & 1, although Dave’s shoulders would have been hurting a bit on the front. Jack eventually found his game on the back nine, returning with 20 points, giving him a total of 29, enough to give him third place on count-back from three others with the same score.

Jimmy Brackett easily had the best round of the day, winning by four with 39 points.

There was a ‘jackpot 2’ from Dave Boran.
1st James Brackett (9) 39pts
2nd Dave Boran (15) 35pts
3rd Jack Moseley (13) 29pts
Tuesday, August 24, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

There is no stopping this man; Terry Marney has won yet again here for the third successive week, this time with 40 points and the handicap system doesn’t seem to be able to catch him. But the handicap snipper is keeping an eye on him and most likely will swoop in the not too distant future.

Thirteen Outbackers here today on a totally deserted course, which was in a fair to reasonable state with signs of continuing work being done on the bunkers. The greens were varied, to say the least, but with the cool, windy conditions it was a pleasant day out.

Good old Arthur did good with 35 points for second, ahead of Jack with 34, getting the better of Alan over the last six.

There were four ‘2’s coming from Alan & Arthur (both on the same hole), Angus and Laong.

1st Terry Marney (26) 40pts
2nd Arthur Bailey (22) 35pts
3rd Jack Moseley (13) 34pts
4th Alan Pearce (21) 34pts
Monday, August 23, Black Mountain G.C. Hua Hin - Stableford

Black Mountain and Banyan’s reputation preceded the first tour the Outback have organised to Hua Hin, enthusiastically endorsed by Rosco and Jim Bryan, who had both played there on separate trips, a month or so earlier.

Two weeks ago, General Jack put the trip together at an absolutely fantastic price, for a four night trip to Hua Hin to stay at the Thipurai City Hotel and play a three-day tournament at Black Mountain, Banyan followed by Black Mountain again. Twenty signed up virtually overnight and the trip swelled quickly to 24 golfers; before everybody left on Sunday (22nd Aug) the trip was declared full at 28 golfers.

The Outback bus was there in just over four hours, even with a couple of stops but it was a little bit trickier getting to the front door of the hotel through a very narrow entrance, which was skilfully negotiated by the Outback’s new lady driver with an inch to spare, aided by a little bit of help from a friendly guy from the nearby store.

Black Mountain is about 30mins from the hotel but is currently undergoing a series of course improvements as well as the construction of another 18 holes, nevertheless it is a spectacular course. The clubhouse lacks character and where the bag drop is not entirely clear; however, we eventually sorted it out and the staff took good care of us.

In Div A, there were five tied on 36 points; headed by Tony Garnett, followed in by Steve Mann, Ian Heddle, and the two Captains, the Outback’s, Bob and the real one, Bob Finley. John Stafford, who preferred to play off h’cap 19 rather than 20, had enough shots in the bag to win with 38 points, with Jimmy Little and the ladies man, Ed Delaney both on 36.

The ‘2’s for the day, which are added together over the three days, came from Bob Philp and the Sugarman.

Div A (0-14)
1st Tony Garnett (10) 36pts
2nd Steve Mann (9) 36pts
3rd Ian Heddle (5) 36pts
4th Bob Philp (9) 36pts
Div B [15+]
1st John Stafford (19) 38pts
2nd James Little (16) 36pts
3rd Eddie Delaney (30) 36pts
4th George Bishop (15) 34pts
Tuesday, August 24, Banyan G.C. Hua Hin - Stableford

After a great breakfast it was off to Banyan about 20mins away; a bit of a dirty old track up to the course, as they are building a new access road but it was worth it as we approached the impressive clubhouse.

We were duly greeted by the General Manager, Stuart Daly, who couldn’t do enough for us. Not only did he organise all the carts into the groups according to our start sheet but he also arranged for his starter to photograph every group as they teed off. This is a great course that is extremely well managed with some of the best sandwiches to be found at the halfway stops, anywhere in Thailand.

Still no rain and the golf was nothing short of spectacular as Ian Heddle propelled himself to the top of the two-day leader board with an absolutely brilliant 45 points off a h’cap of 5 (that’s a gross 68) – what a round! Lloyd in second with 41 points looked very ordinary.

Stunning Tosspot Lawton (Div B winner with 39 points), having lost his regular bet with Capt’ Bob the previous day and paying him in crumpled up 20 baht notes, took the money today, only to receive a bag of 5 baht coins. Som nam nah, Lawton!

Ed Delaney, banned from delivering his Irish charm on our driver, had another good day out for his 38 points to take second, with Joe Mooneyham heading a group of three all with 35.

There were a three more ‘2’s coming from Ian Heddle, Joe Mooneyham and Paul Greenaway, who deserves a special mention after holing his second shot for eagle on the par 4, sixth hole.

Div A (0-14)
1st Ian Heddle (5) 45pts
2nd Lloyd Shuttleworth (6) 41pts
3rd Robert Finley (14) 39pts
4th Steven Budrys (12) 35pts
Div B (15+)
1st John Lawton (19) 39pts
2nd Eddie Delaney (30) 38pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (15) 35pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (18) 35pts
Wednesday, August 25, Black Mountain G.C. Hua Hin - Stableford

On the last day, as is customary, the leaders go out last, today was no exception with Ian Heddle (81pts), Bob Finley (75pts), Ed Delaney (74pts) and Lloyd Shuttleworth (73pts) in the final group.

Back at Black Mountain, it was a slow round, pure torture for some of our players that prefer to get round a course as fast as possible. However, if you hadn’t been nobbled by Lumpy before, today he was going to get you as the groups backed up on many a hole. We’re not allowed to discuss exactly what was in the mixers but by all reports they were pretty potent; apparently it was mostly vodka on day one that demolished Rosco and his shoe, Irish coffee on day 2 that took out the Capt’ (although Bob blamed the course) and on day 3, Suzi was seen lying on the approach of a green with her legs in the air, rather like an insect struggling to turn over off it’s back. So be warned, don’t get Lumpied!

So, you may wonder, what happened to B1 & B2, well they were very quiet; and what happened Geoff Moodie, after his astounding 19 points on the first day and 18 on the second and leaving his golf clubs at the course on the first day?

Capt’ Bob just about got his act together to do the presentation at 4.30 p.m., ably assisted over the three days by Steve Mann, Joe Mooneyham and Chad, before leaving for Pattaya to be back here by 10.30 p.m. Most of the boys stayed the extra night, included in the tour price, to return at their leisure the next day.

Ian Heddle continued to shine with another great score of 40 points to win Div A today and the overall with a record three day total of 121. Lloyd scrambled his 37 to take fourth (Div A today) and third overall with 110. Bob (the microwave) Finley stayed solid with 38 today and second overall on 113.

There were a load more ‘2’s from Lumpy Russell, Paul Greenaway, Rosco and Jim Bryan & Steve Mann both had two each.

All in all a great trip that will definitely become a permanent fixture in years to come. Well done Hua Hin and look and learn Pattaya; don’t forget where your customers come from ‘cos there’s no doubt Hua Hin knows. Our thanks to the hotel and to the Blackout Bar who extended the “Happy Hour” around to suit and also to the “Limelight Bar” and “Murphys”, for putting up with us.

Div A (0-14)
1st Ian Heddle (5) 40pts
2nd Robert Finley (14) 38pts
3rd Paul Greenaway (11) 38pts
4th Lloyd Shuttleworth (6) 37pts
Div B (15+)
1st James Bryan (15) 40pts
2nd John Lawton (19) 40pts
3rd Joe Mooneyham (15) 37pts
4th James Little (16) 36pts
Friday, August 27, Laem Chabang - Stableford

Twenty-three Outbackers on the A and B loops today in ideal conditions and making it very enjoyable, unfortunately the last time for the Outback during this low season. The course was in great condition, much better than the last time we played it, maybe down to less rain but it was not very busy with only one drink stop open on each nine.

Ian (37pts) and Lloyd (39pts) continued their winning ways from Hua Hin, taking second and first in Div A. Steve Milne won Div B with 36 points and Hans Kafka took Div C with 38.

The Capt’s golf is in the doldrums at the moment as he continues to lose his way round the greens and everyone is taking advantage of that in the betting stakes.

We said goodbye today to Lloyd Shuttleworth; he is off back to Basra coming back eight weeks hence and Sel Wegner also leaves us this week but will be back in October.

There were three ‘2’s from Ian, Lloyd and Capt’ Bob

Div A (0-12)
1st Lloyd Shuttleworth (6) 39pts
2nd Ian Heddle (5) 37pts
Div B (13-17)
1st Steve Milne (15) 36pts
2nd Robert Finley (14) 33pts
Div C (18+)
1st Hans Kafka (18) 38pts
2nd Sakorn Pramoolchart (22) 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.

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

You are West and you hear this bidding shown below (South deals, EW vulnerable): 

South         West             North     East

1N              P                    2C           P

2S               P                    2N           P

3N              All pass                          

This is your hand: 

S: 863

H: Q6

D: J10765

C: 952 

What do you lead?  Some players might try the “safe” lead of the diamond jack.  You, of course, think about the bidding first, before leading anything.  1N by South indicates 15-17 points.  2C (Stayman) shows that North has at least one four card major.  2S by South shows four spades (and denies four hearts).  2N by North shows his four card suit was hearts and indicates 8 or 9 points - inviting to 3N.  South accepts the invitation, so should have 16 or 17 points.

Thus, NS are marginal for making game, with about 25 points in total.  You have 3 points, so your partner must have about 12 points.  Since your partner has the points, you want to find his suit, rather than trying to set up yours.

But what is your partner’s suit?  North has four hearts and South has two or three.  Since you have only two hearts, your partner must have at least four, maybe five.  So, you lead the queen of hearts.

The full deal is:

                        S: 52

                        H: A743

                        D: K93

                        C: Q863     

S: 863                                  S: KJ104

H: Q6                                  H: KJ1095

D: J10765                           D: 4

C: 952                                 C: A74

                        S: AQ97

                        H: 82

                        D: AQ82

                        C: KJ10       

Your partner overtakes your lead and forces out the ace of hearts.  Now, when he gets in with the ace of clubs, he takes the rest of his heart tricks.  The contract goes down one - and your partner is delighted with your play!

Now watch what happens if you lead the “safe” diamond jack.  Declarer wins in hand and then forces out the ace of clubs.  Your partner gets in and leads hearts, but it is too late.  Declarer takes the ace of hearts, to add to his three club tricks and four diamond tricks (by finessing you for the marked ten), and the ace of spades, to make the contract.  If necessary, or if declarer is feeling really lucky, he can also take the spade finesse.  On today’s hand this gives him an overtrick.  Your partner snarls at you!

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

Mod excels at Phoenix

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper

I have had many opportunities to report on the golf from one particular lady player at the TRGG over past months but even she has excelled herself with her performance at the Phoenix last week. I am of course referring to Mod Chaviraksa who came home with 44 points after shooting a gross 35 on the back nine and a score equivalent to a 5 handicap, and not the 13 that she currently plays off (reduced to 11 now after that performance). Well Done Mod, it was richly deserved.

Saturday’s top two, Richard Moore and Fergus Brennan, pose with ‘2’s winner Rob Herald. (Inset) is Nagger Award recipient Peter Grant.

One person who would not have been to happy was Trevor Hartley in what was to be his last game before returning home; his 43 points was a great score and one of his highest ever here in Thailand, but just not good enough on the day. Alan Thomas must have also wondered what he had to do when he turned in his 40-point card and only came in third. Why the scoring was so high on the day was the question I asked everyone, but not one player could offer me a definitive answer. I guess it must have been the air or something.

A more detailed report follows on the four days of golf this week now follows:

Monday, August 23, Bangpra - Stableford
1st Liz Hartley (18) 37pts
2nd Ross Schiffe (15) 35pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (12) 35pts

We went to Bangpra on Monday with a modest sized group and just one division. I have it reported that playing conditions were acceptable but a little damp.

Liz Hartley found her top form on the day to come home number one with 37 points, a great result for her in one of her last outings of her vacation. She told me that she is coming back next time for three weeks because she enjoyed the company and organisation that she received at the TRGG so much.

Ross Schiffe scraped in second after winning a count-back at 35 points and only decided over the last six over Fergus Brennan who seems to finding his form again.

A batch of ‘2’s came from Warren Gallop (2), Fergus Brennan and Mod Chaviraksa.

Wednesday, August 25, St. Andrews – Stableford
1st Warren Gallop (10) 37pts
2nd Ross Schiffe (15) 37pts
3rd Fergus Brennan (12) 36pts

Wednesday saw us attending St. Andrews/Green Valley and taking advantage of their current great price deal. Again there was a modest entry and just one division.

Warren Gallop topped the scoring list with 37 points and squeezed out Ross Schiffe on the count-back by two on the back nine. In third was yet again Fergus Brennan for the second time in the week.

Only one ‘2’ on the day and guess who got that, yes (Mr ‘2’) Ted Senior.

Thursday, August 26, Phoenix – Stableford
1st Mod Chaviraksa (44) 44pts
2nd Trevor Hartley (17) 43pts
3rd Alan Thomas (8) 40pts
4th Ross Schiffe (14) 40pts

Thursday it was back yet again to Phoenix to play the Mountain and Ocean course. We encountered good conditions and had a very big turnout compared with those of late.

My headline report advised you of what a great scoring day was to unfold. Four 40-pointers for the top four spots, the one I did not mention earlier was from Ross Schiffe who had a pretty good week on the whole with two seconds and the fourth. He lost out on a count-back here to Alan Thomas by three on the back nine.

There were also six ‘2’s recorded by Amphan North (2), Alan Thomas (2), Ross Schiffe and David Booth.

Saturday, August 28, The Emerald – Stableford
1st Fergus Brennan (12) 38pts
2nd Roger Wilkinson (15) 35pts
3rd Richard Moore (25) 31pts

Saturday, and it was back again to the Ban Chang area, this time for a second weekend visit to Emerald. I must reiterate yet again that the management there are really trying there very best for everyone and subsequently everyone enjoys going there.

Fergus Brennan had obviously been building up for this all week; two thirds earlier and a fifth spot on Thursday. He fired in a 38-pointer today for top place and the closest anyone got to him was the 35 from Roger Wilkinson in second, while Richard Moore was some way back in third with 31.

Rob Herald really thought that his day was quite ordinary by his standards until he was advised that he had made the only ‘2’ of the day and he told me that despite the considerable time that he has been playing with us at the TRGG this was his first ever ‘2’s win.

The “Nagger” award for lowest score on the day went to Peter Grant. The picture of him tells the rest of the tale.

Note: If you want any further or fuller information about the golf outings played by the TRGG from the Travellers Rest Hotel, please contact the hotel manager Tewin Lamthong on 086 056 7019 or just call in to the Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at the notice board, or visit the website at www.trgg.biz

Harry V signs off with a win at Emerald

Ban Chang Golf Society

After being disrupted over the last couple of weeks, with an enforced holiday and the weather getting in the way of our weekly golf game at the Emerald Golf Course, it was nice to get back to normal with a bit of sunshine and a good turnout for last Friday’s game. With 10 players, of which 9 were in all competitions, we formed up 3 groups and got off in good time.

Harry celebrates his win with the staff at Mama’s Bar.

Four and a half hours later we were all in the club house, showered and changed ready for the prize giving. Congratulations go to Harry V. who, on his last game with us before going back to the US, beat JJ by one shot in the stableford competition, ensuring that he will be on a lower handicap when he returns next year.

JJ took nearest the pin with the closet shot we have had to the hole since the start of our society. Skins results were as follows: Harry V (8), Andy C (5), JJ (3), Dan (1) and 1 rollover to this week.

Prizes given, we all retired to our favorite watering hole in Ban Chang, “Mama’s Bar”, to celebrate Harry V’s win and his leaving.

Café Kronborg extends lead

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

On the back of last week’s 4 point romp over Team Bavaria, Café Kronborg maintained their momentum by pulling off another 4 point victory; this time the victim was Team Canada who dropped from third to fifth place. Led for the second straight week by Jang Shaw, (565) high series of the day, Café Kronborg have now extended their overall lead over VFW Post 9876, adding a single point to establish a comfortable 41/2 point lead in league standings.

200 Bowlers: Ooy & Antero.

VFW Post 9876 dropped the first game to House of the Golden Coin on their way to a 3 to 1 win while maintaining second place. House of the Golden Coin managed to remain in seventh place.

Major moves in the league standings occurred between positions three through six. Green Tree overcame a strong (563) series effort by Ooy Pluemkamon in a losing effort to record a 3 to 1 point victory over Jack Tar, moving them into third place and replacing Team Canada. Ooy’s score of 209 in the final game provided the catalyst for Jack Tar’s lone win.

Brother D and Sabai Friday swapped places in the league standings as they squared off against each other. Brother D were led by a strong effort, a 210 score in the third game and (560) series from Antero Ronkainen for a 3 to 1 point win.

Teams Bavaria and USMC hold down the final two positions in the league standings. In an attempt to climb out of the cellar, USMC took 3 points from Bavaria; however it was not enough to prevail as they needed a 4 point sweep to afford a position change.