Young motocross star gains first win in Sri Racha

Pattaya speedster Ben Fortt had reason to celebrate last weekend after achieving his first career motocross victory against some top riders from the region at a racetrack in Sri Richa on Sunday

Ben Fortt, left, celebrates his victory with his father.

Ben, riding his new Yamaha YZF 250cc bike, hit the front on the first bend of the race but was overtaken a couple of laps later by two of the more experienced riders. Rather than settle for a creditable third place however, Ben concentrated his energies on the final two laps and through some tremendous riding on the wet and slippery course he was able to retake first place by the time the leaders passed the chequered flag.

Ben was asked later what he could put down to his sudden show of form and he answered that his father had taken him on a couple of practice sessions with some experienced motocross riders from which he had learned a lot, and in this race he had finally been able to put it all together to bring him his first race victory. Well done Ben!

Ben Fortt on his Yamaha YZF 250cc bike.

Harding’s front nine blitz give him victory at St. Andrews

PSC golf from the Bunker Bar

Monday, Sept. 20, Mountain Shadow - Stableford

Millionaire’s golf today as we found ourselves to be the only golfers on the course. Always a tough test of golf, we found the greens to be a lot quicker than many we have played on recently.

Laurence Harding.

Alan Freeman produced the shot of the day, hitting his second shot 230 yards over the water on the infamous par 5 fourteenth hole, finishing 8 feet from the pin, and scoring an eagle. Unfortunately the rest of his round wasn’t quite so good, and he finished well off the pace.

JJ was the steadiest player on the day, coming home in first place with 31 points, followed by Geoff Cox, and with Laurence Harding beating Eddie Martin on a count-back to claim third.

Near Pins went to Peter Habgood, Mark and JJ with two.

1st JJ Harney (12) 31pts
2nd Geoff Cox (16) 30pts
3rd Laurence Harding (17) 29pts
Wednesday, Sept. 22,St. Andrews - Stableford

Even though the current low season promotion offers excellent value, perhaps some golfers were deterred by the compulsory buggies, and a small field headed off to St. Andrews.

The course was in its usual excellent condition and Lawrence Harding took full advantage to score 23 points on the front nine. Unfortunately he wasn’t able to maintain the momentum on the back nine, but still finished with the best score of the day on 37 points. JJ Harney finished second, overhauling Lee Butler on the back nine to win on a count-back.

1st Laurence Harding (17) 37pts
2nd J.J. Harney (12) 32pts
3rd Lee Butler (19) 32pts
Friday, Sept. 24, Greenwood - Medal

Greenwood is always a popular venue for the Bunker Boys, and today we played the A and B nines which were in their usual good condition. A brief 30 minute storm interrupted the round today, but didn’t dampen the enthusiasm.

Geoff Cox maintained his run of good form to claim first place, beating Alan Freeman on a count-back. There was also a count-back for third place, with Laurence Harding edging out Peter Habgood.

Near pin winners were Alan Freeman and Peter Habgood.

1st Geoff Cox (16) net 71
2nd Alan Freeman (1) net 71
3rd Laurence Harding (17) net 77

Geoff Cox’s recent run of good results has put him in the lead in the Golfer of the Month competition with 56 points, leading Geoff Parker by 1 point, with JJ a further point behind. The 2 remaining games should provide an excellent competition between the contenders.

Arch & Paul low score at annual 2-man scramble

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Friday, Sept. 24, Green Valley – Scramble

Arch Armstrong and Paul Smith headed the 30 teams at Green Valley on Friday; the duo recording 9 birdies and 6 pars in their winning net score of 60.6 off a combined 2.4 (20%) handicap.

Chasing Arch and Paul home, but a little off the pace were Graham Beaumont and Jeff North who took the runners up spot with a fine net 64 of the handicap of 4.

The third placed team was the pairing of Helmut Hebstreit and Greig Ritchie who fished on net 65.6 to edge Clive Bruce and Damian Trant (net 65.8) into fourth spot.

Various technical prizes were up for grabs and these went in no particular order to Sodok Orawaw, Mike Phillips, Terry O’Connor, Richard Line (2), Hugh Byrne and JJ Harney. Generous sponsors of the technical awards were WKD, Mattvic Meat Supplies, Nick the Pizza, the Caddyshack, and the Queen Vic Pub & Restaurant.

A total of 48,700 baht was raised through the event which will go provide sports equipment at a local Pattaya school, Watnongkeyyai Tambon Nongplalai and the Nong Dim Dam school inm Chaiyabhum Province.

Following the golf an evening’s entertainment was laid on at the Caddyshack with live music and a fine complementary buffet. Thank you to everyone who took part or sponsored this year’s event and see you all next year!

Chang top scores at Green Valley

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

Monday, Sept. 20, Mountain Shadow – Stableford

There were no ladies playing today so two divisions for the men with a cut of 3-17 and 18 plus. The course here is still in good condition, especially the very fast greens.

Still playing off 3, Paul Smith came in with 34 points to finish second in division 1 with Chris Voller winning with 38 points.

Thirty three points was enough for Burnie Sinclair to win the second division with Bob Poole in second place three points behind.

Colin Bradwell, Georges Faber and Chris Voller shared the division 1 pot in the ‘2’s and yet another rollover to Green Valley on Wednesday in division 2.

Wednesday, Sept. 20, Green Valley – Stableford

There were five late cancellations and an unexpected arrival on the first tee so there were last minute adjustments to the starting sheet of 33 players today. A 3-16 and 17 plus cut was in operation in the two divisions plus the ladies of course.

Always good scores here and winning division 1 today with 39 points was Jeff Cordiero; Ya Riley was second on 37 and in third place with 36 was Dave Stockman.

Thirty eight points won division 2 for William Chang, with Cully Monks second one point behind and in third place with 36 was Ben Findon.

Miss Sang took the ladies division with 39 points, beating Noi Emmerson by 1 point.

At last we had a ‘2’ in the second division, by Alan Bissell, who birdied the 16th and he was a happy chappy. Ben Findon got a ‘2’ on the 12th , the only one in division 1 today.

Near Pins went to Miss Sang (2), Keith Coakley, Jeff Cordiero, Joe Kubon, Ben Findon, William Chang, Per Karlssen and Alan Bissell.

Friday, Sept. 24, Eastern Star – Stableford

Only nine players out today and only one men’s division plus the ladies. An extremely hot day and most were suffering after nine holes.

Tom Sathrum won the day, beating Ya Riley on an 18/17 back nine count-back after they both finished with 36 points. Noi Emmerson took the ladies with 35 points.

There were no ‘2’s today so rollovers to Eastern Star next Friday.

All change in Ban Chang

The Backyard Golf Society

First thing to mention is that we have changed the name of the society from Ban Chang to Backyard. This has arisen due to some comments that there already is a Ban Chang Golf Society, so if the people who where whinging would like to turn up to buy our old “t-shirts” it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks go to Tip at Mama’s Bar who managed to get the new t-shirts with the new logo printed at a very reasonable price.

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

Right, on with the golf, which began with a 3-day trip to Hua Hin playing the impressive Black Mountain Golf Course twice. Broken Wing ran away with the competition to win and we hope to do this trip again in the new year.

On to this week and our Friday trip to Emerald Golf Course, and with 10 players in the competition and lots of sunshine it looked as though it would be a good game of golf. But, as normal, you can never tell who is going to do what in the game of golf and JJ was very surprised when he won the stableford competition with a mere 33 points.

John Mac took the nearest the pin prize and skin results are as follows: Martyn (10), Alan B (6), Terry C (1) with (1) rollover for next week.

Once finished we all went to Mama’s Bar for a few beers and as normal a good time was had by all.

‘K’ returns to take gold at Emerald

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, Sept. 21, The Emerald - Stableford

Tuesday saw some heavy rain out at the lake, just as we prepared to depart for The Emerald, but a quick call to the golf club confirmed that it was dry in Ban Chang and off we headed. The course was indeed a bit damp under foot, but the rain held off so no problems for the group.

K celebrates with partner Mem after his victory at Emerald.

Kurt Eric Persson, better known as ‘K’, returned from an absence in Sweden, together with his other half, Mem, but it was K (24) who showed the way today with a solid 36 points. Mem played well on the front 9 with 18, but faded on the back, allowing the consistent Jeff Wylie (6) to gain second spot with 35 points.

K also picked up 2 near pins, while Jimmy and Jeff got one each.

Thursday, Sept. 23, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Thursday was our monthly visit to Khao Kheow, with A & B combo to be the test, however the tees were white so better scores than normal were expected. Wrong! The course was playing tough (or we were playing poor), with the small group we had decided on splitting the 9s, an overall, and small payouts for near pins.

The A course prize was shared between Jimmy Fortune (27) & Jeff Wylie (6) with a meagre 13 points each, while Jeff got the B course with an only slightly better 15 points. Twenty eight points was the best anyone could manage over the 18 holes, that being Jeff, who also hit 3 near pins before Jonathan Pratt got inside him on the island green B8, converting for a nice birdie 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!

Yui’s on top

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s

Sunday, Sept. 19, Green Valley - Stableford
A Flight
1st Yui Bietry (13) 38pts
2nd Ian Halfpenny (14) 38pts
3rd Colin Davis (14) 37pts
B Flight
1st Jez Lees (16) 37pts
2nd Pierre Bietry (16) 36pts
3rd Bob Lindborg (19) 36pts
Near Pins: No4 Bob St Aubin, No9 Colin Davis, No12 Pat Regan, No16 Yui Bietry.

Yui Bietry.

Yui, the better looking of the Bietry household, struck again with a solid 38 points to edge Ian ‘Loose Change’ on count-back for a splendid A Flight victory. I wish this sentence was about how the world’s nice guys, Seamus ‘Captain’ Cotter or Vic ‘the Silent Assassin’ Hester beat the ‘Donkey’ into third spot in A Flight. But if you have read this column before, you know that the good guys seldom beat the ‘Donkey’. With that dream vanquished, we will move on to the junior flight.

The ‘Principal’ left nothing to chance today as he blitzed the back nine with an amazing 22 points to take the flight honours. Pierre Bietry was not about to let Yui have all the glory as he also benefited from the count-back formula to edge out Bob ‘The Guru of Green Valley’ Lindborg for the silver.

Yui added a ‘2’ to her winnings along with Pat Reagan, Doug Campbell, Peter Henshaw and Kathy Doody.

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.

Joel floors ‘em with 42-pointer

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s winners back at Bert’s.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, Sept. 21, Greenwood – Stableford

Time for our monthly trip to Greenwood (we go there every month as we all enjoy a “walk” around this course). On this day we were not allowed on the fairways with carts due to the large amount of rain we have had of late. Indeed, it even started raining today as we played, but fortunately we were near a rest stop so did not get too wet. Mind, I need to super glue the soles of my spikes back on. It seems no matter how much you pay for spikes the sole always comes off. I keep saying the next spikes I buy will have the soles sewn on, but when I need new ones I always forget.

Back to the golf, and as expected the fairways were soggy but the greens were good and the bunkers were in fine condition also, so apart from the rain we enjoyed a good round. It did get hot and humid towards the end so we were glad to get into the changing room and a cooling shower.

Back at Bert’s the results were declared with only one outstanding score. The winner of the A Flight, 0 to 20, was Joel Flor with 42 points, a fine comeback for Joel after shoulder surgery. In second place we had Frank (Turbo) Pilkington with 36 points and in third was P.S. Basi with 35 points.

In the B Flight, 21 up, the winner was Don Carmody with 38 points on count-back over Daryl Evans in second. In third was Barry Elphich with 30 points.

One special point was that of the four par threes, we only had one with someone on! T.T.F.N.

Near Pins: Dick Warberg
Long Putts: P.S. Basi, Mick O’Meara

Mason carves a fine victory

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society called at Greenwood Golf Club on Tuesday, 21st September, to play a strokeplay round, the group’s Monthly Medal event, on this excellent course. The B and A nines were soft and with the white tees back to their furthest extent the challenge was a tough one.

Greenwood has the annoying habit of leaving a collar of two inch rough at the approach to every green and with it being damp any attempts at bump-and-run shots are impossible so golfers with a good sense of feel for a wedge will always benefit. Low handicappers stand up and be counted!

At the other end of the table Pat Murphy made a successful return to record net 75 and share third place with John Robertson, a fine return for both players. Paul McNally lost his complete handicap by the fifth hole and had to dig deep for the rest of his round to return gross 79, net 74 for second place. A class act without a doubt.

The winner was John Mason, gleefully playing his best golf in many a year. Having returned to his room only hours before at 3:30 a.m. after an evening of carousal, the signs were not good on the first tee as the rains came down, but he started par-birdie and felt his game, lost for so long, come back effectively throughout the penultimate round this trip. Good stuff John!

John also shared the ‘2’s pot with a fine effort on B2 matching that of Tony Thorne on A6 and the Booby Bevy went to the bearer of the highest gross score, Mr Len.

It had been a memorable day with one of those rare events and in years to come PGS golfers may well be asking “Where were you when Mason won the medal?”

Thomas & Bell survive the tempest

The Pattaya Golf Society visited Pattana for the first time in six months to play a stableford competition on the A and B nines on Thursday, 23rd September. It has to be said the course was not in good condition with bare, bumpy and inconsistent front nine greens and tee boxes that were unplayable on the back Low season is obviously taking its toll on quality courses as well in the current economic climate. Add to that the mix of a heavily overcast sky and the constant roll of thunder and you have a day which would be a severe test of patience and skill.

Scores remained low on the front nine and at the turn they improved but after thirteen holes the expected tempest arrived with flashes and thumps the likes of which the more seasoned golfers had not seen before. Power went out across the course and the rush of wind accompanying the thunder was at times awesome. Half the field left to seek refuge in the powered-off clubhouse whilst the rest sat it out for an hour.

On the resumption fairways were sodden and the final few holes were scattered with trees which had been blown to the ground. Conditions were well nigh impossible so full marks to Tony Thorne for his 24 point fourth place and Robert Lamond for his 28 point card which took third. On his final appearance this trip David Thomas found his game at last and he tied with Jim Bell for the victory on 32 points.

There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to the perceptive New Zealander for his comment on the fourteenth tee, after driving off, that the storm had passed around his group. Within seconds they were scurrying for shelter. What a day it had been at Pattana!

Bridge in Paradise: by Neil Robinson

After some bidding challenges in recent columns, here is a hand to play.  With no one vulnerable East dealt and opened 2H, showing a weak hand and six hearts.  You are sitting South and end up as declarer in 4S.  Imagine you are playing rubber bridge, so overtricks are not important.  West leads the king of hearts.  How do you play to ensure you make the contract? 

                      S: J1075

                      H: A2

                      D: KJ1063

                      C: J4

S: ?                                      S: ?

H: ?                                     H: ?

D: ?                                     D: ?

C: ?                                     C: ?

                      S: AK964

                      H: 96

                      D: AQ7

                      C: K72 

Did you take the ace of hearts on the first trick, hoping to eventually throw your second heart from hand on the long diamond?  If so, you may go down.  Maybe you ducked the ace and took the second heart, then pulled trumps by playing the ace and king of spades, following the rule of eight ever, nine never.  Wrong again!  The full deal is shown below.  

                        S: J1075

                        H: A2

                        D: KJ1063

                        C: J4

S: 3                                      S: Q82

H: K54                                H: QJ10873

D: 9854                               D: 2

C: AQ653                           C: 1098

                        S: AK964

                        H: 96

                        D: AQ7

                        C: K72 

If spades do not split (which is likely after an opening preempt showing a distributional hand), then you have a potential spade loser and a potential heart loser.  You cannot afford more than one club loser.  To make sure of this, you must keep East off lead.  East is the danger hand because a club lead by East through your king will result in you losing to both the ace and queen of clubs.  If you pull trumps by playing the ace and king, then East will trump the second round of diamonds and lead a club.

Down one.  So you must take a finesse in trumps to keep East off lead, no matter who has the spade queen.  On today’s deal, this gives you an overtrick.  But what happens if West has the queen of spades?  This is why it is important to duck the first heart trick.  Otherwise, West wins the queen of spades, leads a heart to get into East’s hand, and back comes a club.  The only way to guarantee East is kept off lead and thus to guarantee the contract is both to duck the first heart and to finesse in trumps.  Congratulations if you saw the danger and got it right!

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

Dabber & Chris take Monthly Medals

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, Sept. 20, Khao Kheow - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Trevor Schirmer (13) 33pts
2nd Rodney Hayes (9) 32pts
3rd Sid Ottaway (23) 32pts
4th Werner Lamm (16) 28pts
5th Bernie Morris (28) 27pts

A very damp week started at probably one of the hardest courses to play in wet conditions – Khao Kheow off the yellow tees over the A and C nines - and the difficulty was underlined by the scores returned with none of the competitors making the standard to keep the competition a counting event. The day ended in a non-counting situation for upward review as the conditions were determined to be too difficult to fairly reflect on ones handicap.

Mike Dabanovich.

Trevor Schirmer returned the best of the day, three over handicap, to take the top spot ahead of Rodney Hayes, whose legendry short game is equally matched with his short game off the tee, but used to good effect in all conditions.

Sid Ottaway made it an all Australian front row, taking third after losing the count-back to Rodney with a worse 7 to 8 over the last six after they had leveled the inward nine in 13s.

Werner Lamm just got the better mention over Bernie Morris to round out a very damp and dismal day for golf.

Once again there were no 2’s in either division.

Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new members Chris Harkins. Bernie Morris and Werner Lamm and also welcomed back Roar Berger and Rod Howett.

Wednesday, Sept. 22, Pattana A & B - Stableford
CSS 74
1st Russell Exley (7) 35pts
2nd Rodney Hayes (9) 33pts
3rd Orawan Meeraka (28) 32pts
4th Rod Howett (26) 31pts

Another day of “lift and place” in the fairways over the A & B courses where the greens were about as slow as the fairways, even with a little less grass covering them, all of which conspired to make it yet another day in the wet season when the scores were not at their best.

Chris Knapp.

Russell Exley managed the length and conditions better than the rest of the field to return what under the conditions was a very tidy round at one over handicap and take the top honour by two from Rodney Hayes, whose usual steady game once again served him well.

Orawan Meeraka took third place with a very good return in the circumstances, just one ahead of Rod Howett.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Russell Exley had the only one in the first division to sweep the pot including the rollovers to add to his day’s tally.

Back at The Haven David Knight was welcomed as a new member and Tom Atkins and Tom Byrne were welcomed back.

Friday, Sept. 24, Phoenix (Ocean & Lakes) - Monthly Medals
CSS 74
Division 1
1st Mike Dabanovich (11) net 71
2nd Mark Campbell (7) net 73
3rd Marty Rock (11) net 73
Division 2
1st Chris Knapp (17) net 74
2nd Shuichi Kodaka (16) net 75
3rd Rod Howett (26) net 81

Following two very tough days where the conditions were extremely difficult and the weather very wet and stormy, it was a pleasure to get back onto a course where carts were allowed on the fairways and although there were some wet areas, the day’s play could be played as it lied.

Once again it was time for the Monthly Medals, where all shots count and scores seem to spiral under the added pressure but as usual in the second division, Chris Knapp cruised round in his normal unflappable style to record a two over handicap round and take his second Medal of the year, albeit by the slimmest of margins ahead of Shuichi Kodaka. The difficulty factor for the second division was underscored by Rod Howett taking third a further seven shots behind the winning score for the division.

Division one was hotly contested with Mike Dabanovich taking his first Medal of the year to deny Marty Rock his second in a row and Mark Campbell his first of the current year. Mark took a double bogey on the last on Lakes to finish in second place and Marty took a 9 on Lakes no. 8 to finish third after losing the count-back 38.5 to 35.5.

In the 2’s competitions, after several rounds off the easier tees without a winner, one was at last found in the second division as Shuichi Kodaka holed his second on the par three Ocean no. 7, to claim the monster pot.

The first division produced three, one each by Mike Dabanovich, Marty Rock and Grant Cadell for a lot less each.

Prior to the presentations Mark Campbell and Paul Hartley were welcomed back.

Note: If you would like to play with The Haven group you can contact mobile 084782 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.

Super value Century holds no fears for the scribe

PSC golf from Café’ Kronborg

San Mig Stu

Monday, Sept. 20, Century Chonburi – Stableford

There were 24 players who attended today’s outing and the majority were herded into the two regular mini buses for departure by the Admiral right on 0815 hours whilst some others elected to find their own way to the Century Chonburi golf course. The journey took 55 minutes and the first group teed off 20 minutes later.

This course is definitely the best value for money in this part of the world. Six hundred baht including golf fees, cart and caddy is much appreciated by all and particularly by some whose baht needs to stretch during these tough economic times. Those wishing to walk payed far less!

Whilst the club facilities are lacking, the course is in very good condition and some of the bunkers are even receiving renewed attention. A few of the greens were being fertilized which obviously required copious amounts of water to ensure the fertilizer dissolves and the nutrients soak into the underlying soil. These wet greens caused a few putting problems as the greens in general were quite slick. Leaving the ball below the hole is a must on this course as the downhill sliders inevitably result in three putt scores.

Only two people managed par or better which serves to prove that the course is quite challenging.

We welcomed Zilla Wilmot and Nathan Lewry who hail from Canada. Nigel Perry is also with us again for three weeks on one of his regular visits from the UK.

Brian Noguer took out B Flight with a fine par 36 points, just pipping the regular podium visitor Ken Bernek, followed by Colin Swann and Graham Buckingham coming in third and fourth on a count-back from Nigel Perry and Dave Richardson (The Admiral).

A Flight was slaughtered by yours truly (with the help of a handful of tinnies). Coming way behind in second place was Mr. Consistency Mike Allidi whilst another regular and consistent podium placer Martin Todd found himself third and Mikito Homma took out fourth spot.

Our last outings A Flight winner (Owen Walkley) lost his way today and thus picked up the much coveted Compass Cap. His donation has now raised this year’s contributions to 4,740 baht.

A Flight (0-18)
1st Stuart Rifkin (16) 41pts
2nd Mike Allidi (3) 35pts
3rd Martin Todd (7) 32pts
4th Mikitio Homma (14) 31pts
B Flight (19+)
1st Brian Noguer (23) 36pts
2nd Ken Bernek (19) 35pts
3rd Collin Swann (23) 31pts
4th Graham Buckingham (23) 30pts
Near Pins: Martin Todd, Takeshi Hakozaki
Long Putts: Per Anders Karlsen, Mikito Homma

Thursday, Sept. 23, Treasure Hill – Stableford

There were 19 starters fronted for today’s outing at the challenging Treasure Hills Golf Course. The Admiral ushered us aboard the buses at 0813 hours. Nobody challenged this unheard of early revelry. What right minded underling would?

Our first group out was a threesome and took 4 hours and five minutes to finish their round whilst the last group is still playing! Rain interrupted play on the first nine for about 15 minutes. The second nine caught the last three groups, who were finishing the last three holes, in something which could only be described as a mini tornado! Trying to putt out with ones phoofie valves clenched tight due to lightening crashing all around us made for a number of three putts on the closing holes.

With caddies fearfully crying “Klubaan! Klubaan!” (Home! Home!) we high tailed it back to the clubhouse on overloaded carts. Everyone was soaked through and to make matters worse the power had been knocked out and showers were unavailable, as was lunch! The storm lasted for 45 minutes and those who had marked their balls on the eighteenth green cheerfully went down and putted out. The final two groups posted a wipe on the last hole.

So with a rain affected result the final postings were awarded. Martin Todd took out A Flight with 35 points followed by Mike Allidi who won on a count-back from yours truly (Stu Rifkin), both on 34 points, and Peter Bye picked up fourth spot with 32 points.

B Flight saw our illustrious leader, The Admiral (Dave Richardson), back on the winner’s podium (31 points) with Ken Bernek close behind (30 points) and Patrice Bardy taking out third spot on a count-back from Kevin Dinan in fourth, both with 29 points.

Meanwhile Graham Buckingham must be psychic, as he was heard in the locker rooms prior to tee off advising that he would win the Compass Cap today. He now possesses the cap and hopefully he can adjust his game before our next outing at Bangpra on Monday, with the aid of the compass which adorns this cap! The Charity bin now stands at 4,840 baht for the year to date. Thanks for the donation Graham.

A Flight (0–16)
1st Martin Todd (7) 35pts
2nd Mike Allidi (3) 34pts
3rd Stu Rifkin (16) 34pts
4th Peter Bye (12) 32pts
B Flight (17+)
1st Dave Richardson (24) 31pts
2nd Ken Bernek (19) 30pts
3rd Patrice Bardy (17) 29pts
4th Kevin Dinan (23) 29pts

Emerson wins by four

PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar

Ominous clouds were on the horizon, but once they realized it was the Three Sisters Group on the tee box, they scudded away. The Pattaya Country Club is working on several greens at the moment and it’s good to see. Bad sections of the greens are removed and good grass put in.

Wednesday winner Larry Emerson, left, with runner-up Sus Ige.

This Wednesday, Sept. 22, again found three groups going out and the weather was beautiful though a bit humid. Gathering back at Caddy Shack II, the score cards were tallied and the results announced.

Larry Emerson came in first today with 35 points; obviously with his frequent winnings it’s time for a serious handicap adjustment. Sus Ige came in second with an “honest” 31, although Doug Douglas gave Sus a run for his money. Count-back 9 found Sus and Doug tied and we had to do a count-back all the way to the front nine, 6th hole.

Herbie furnished the usual snacks and some delicious ham slices for sandwiches.

A double for Jeff Boylan

Golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper

My headline last week referred to bus trouble. I am happy to say no problems this week. I promised to report on the outcome of talks with the owner of the bus hire company and apparently a sub-contracted bus owner did not have the correct documents as he believed the company owner had the right to operate commercially. He has now been advised that he will not be used anymore. But it does display that you have to be on your guard at all times in these matters.

So on with the golf at the TRGG. Jeff Boylan made it a great “double” week with two wins - one on Monday and another on the Wednesday. Well done Jeff!

Monday, Sept. 20, St. Andrews – Stableford
1st Jeff Boylan (26) 40pts
2nd Mod Chaviraksa (11) 38pts
3rd Derek Thorogood (21) 38pts
4th Ted Senior (14) 36pts

On Monday we went to St. Andrews where they are offering prices that just cannot be missed. We played off the white tees and a good sized field took on this testing course which was in top notch condition.

Two of the TRGG winners this week: Derek Thorogood (2nd Monday & 3rd Wednesday) and Alun Webber (1st on Saturday).

As advised already, the overall winner on the day was Jeff Boylan with a forty-pointer, followed home by Mod Chaviraksa who took the count back over Derek Thorogood. Coming in fourth was Ted Senior.

Only the one ‘2’ on the day and that came from Daryl Ottoway

Wednesday, Sept. 22, Greenwood – Stableford
1st Jeff Boylan (25) 36pts
2nd Derek Thorogood (20) 35pts
3rd Ken MacKenzie (15) 34pts

We moved the second outing of the week to Wednesday and this was a trip to Greenwood. The course was excellent and very quiet and this allowed for a great day’s golf.

Making it two wins in a row was our headline man Jeff Boylan, with 36 points this time. In second spot and one better that his outing two days earlier was Derek Thorogood and in third was Ken MacKenzie with 34 points.

Two ‘2’s came from Ted Senior and Daryl Ottoway.

Thursday, Sept. 23, Phoenix - Stableford
Overall
1st Hugh Byrne (13) 36pts
Div. 1
1st Tewin Lamthong (11) 36pts
2nd Roger Wilkinson (14) 34pts
3rd Martin Zimmerman (13) 34pts
Div. 2
1st Andrew Rich (21) 34pts
2nd Prae Mattawong (36) 34pts
3rd Jeff Boylan (24) 32pts

On Thursday it was back yet again to Phoenix to play the Mountain and Lakes course (I understand that other courses have work taking place on them). We found the layout to be in good condition, as always at this course, and we had a very good entry.

It was stated by the organiser that there were some very honest scores comparative to handicaps on the day. The overall winner was Hugh Byrne with an even par round of 36 points. Losing out on the top placing but heading Division 1 was Tewin Lamthong, also with 36 points, while Roger Wilkinson came second on count-back over Martin Zimmerman who took third.

Divison 2 had Andrew Rich topping the list with 34 points off his 21 handicap and losing out on a count-back was Prae Mattawong, who plays off 36. In third place was that man again, Jeff Boylan, with 32 points. Three ‘2’s came from Peter Karhill, Chaten Patel and Derek Thorogood.

Saturday, Sept. 25, The Emerald - Stableford
1st Alun Webber (20) 39pts
2nd Warren Gallop (9) 38pts
3rd German Odermatt (14) 37pts
4th Roger Wilkinson (14) 36pts

Saturday was a trip out of town to Emerald with just a small entry but the weather held good for the visit. This is a good course and was a pleasure to play but it must be said that a storm was showing its presence towards the end of the round, however it decided to stay on the other side of the hill and move away but there was a good lightning show for all to see.

The day went to the “Welsh Wizard” Alun Webber with 39 points ahead of Warren Gallop, just the one back in second spot. A further shot back was German Odermatt in third and Roger Wilkinson took fourth with an even par 36.

Two ‘2’s on the day came from Roger Wilkinson and Warren Gallop.

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 our website at www.trgg.biz

Team Europe gain revenge - Ryder Cup style

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Joey’s Column

Monday, Sept. 20, Burapha - Stableford

There was a rather depleted field of just 17 Outbackers at Burapha, as many were away participating in this week’s Ryder Cup event which started at Green Valley today. Nevertheless it was an excellent day out, albeit the course turned out to be the winner with its tough ‘cotton wool’ like rough, and nobody managed to even equal their handicap, let alone beat it. Jerry commented afterwards, if anybody played to handicap round here, their handicap would deserve severe scrutiny.

Team Europe Captain, Bob Newell, left, receives the Ryder Cup Trophy from his North American counterpart, Brad Sproxton.

We were on the A & B from the blues and Rick Evans and Doug Douglas were the day’s top scorers with 34 points apiece (Rick winning on count-back) with ‘Moi’ back in third with 33.

There was a ‘jackpot 2’ from John Cunningham.

1st Rick Evans (5) 34pts
2nd Doug Douglas (19) 34pts
3rd Bob Philp (10) 33pts
4th Ivan Plunkett (21) 33pts
5th Keith Buchanan (17) 32pts
Tuesday, Sept. 21, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford

Just 12 Outbackers here today, as with yesterday, some players were away playing in the Ryder Cup week. It was also a similar comparison with the scoring, with just 33 points winning the day. It looked as though it was going to be a wet day, the course surrounded by black clouds, but a few spots only.

For some strange reason, known only to PCC, after coring and sanding all the greens a couple of weeks ago, they have now decided to do repairs on all eighteen, making them look like sandy patchwork quilts.

There were no ‘2’s today so places down to fourth. First timer with the Outback and in first place was Danny Medd, on a visit from Oman with 33 points off his 15 handicap; second was the ever present Frank O’Neill enjoying his 20 handicap with 30, and Alan Pearce beat Paul Smets on count-back to take third place with 29.

1st Danny Medd (15) 33pts
2nd Frank O’Neill (20) 31pts
3rd Alan Pearce (22) 29pts
4th Paul Smets (20) 29pts
Friday, Sept. 24, Burapha - Stableford

It was welcome back to some Aussies today, Clinton, Graham, Adam and Gary, a new chum, as we played Burapha for the second time this week since we couldn’t get a run anywhere else due to the Ryder Cup boys taking up all the spots at Emerald.

Anyway back to Burapha, playing the loops of B and D off the whites, it really was a good day out, although the scores were not up to the usual high standard, once again the rough was brutal but playing off the whites did make it a little easier.

There were two players who were head and shoulders above the rest, namely Clinton Kimber, and our guest from London, Owen Lloyd, both with 39 points. The scores dropped off suddenly from there down to 33 points to Jim Moreton and Ivan Plunkett both on the same score.

1st Owen Lloyd (11) 39pts
2nd Clinton Kimber (11) 39pts
3rd James Moreton (12) 33pts
4th Ivan Plunkett (21) 33pts
5th Bob Philp (10) 32pts
Monday, Sept. 20, Green Valley - Ryder Cup (Day 1)

Once again, three of the PSC’s largest and most popular golf venues – Lewiinskis, The Golf Club and The Outback Golf Bar got together for the second time for this biennial competition (Ryder Cup) (fourth time including the President’s Cup) with some 34 players on each side. Thirty was the original target and with a bit of help from an Australian (The Sugarman) and a Brit Lady (Suzi Lawton) to assist the North Americans and a couple of others press ganged into it (John & Jeff Ryves from the Golf Simulator at Green Valley) the teams were equally balanced.

It all started some three weeks before with entry sheets at all three bars and commemorative shirts ordered & designed for both teams by the co-ordinator for this event Jack Moseley.

Captains appointed were Brad Sproxton for the Americans and Bob Newell for the Europeans.　

With some last minute adjustments due to a couple of ‘no shows’, Day 1 began with a welcome from both Captains and some friendly banter between the players of both sides.

It was a two tee start from 1st and 10th – both away on time with no interruptions – Thanks Green Valley.

Greensomes, involving alternate shots, is a game seldom played but always enjoyable with the word ‘sorry’ not permitted in today’s vocabulary (usually carrying a 100 baht fine if used). It’s difficult not to pick out a couple of results in particular, not only the all lady pairings of Mon & Jib (playing for N. America) who were comprehensively beaten by Kathy & Yui 6 & 5 (our compliments to Yui for sporting the Ryder Cup shirt so aptly) but also to Jim Elphick & Jim Bell who dished out a ‘dog licence’ to Robbie Bennett & Tim Lazecki (us Brits know what that means – 7 & 6)

After the game – played in good weather - and with good sportsmanship all round, it was time for a quick drink and a chat then off to Lewiinski’s. Colin Davis and his team provided a great buffet and service for drinks and a ‘bell ring’ (all part of the entry fee at all three bars).

It was them time for Jack to announce the results of Day 1 – a good win for the Europeans 11ฝ to 4ฝ - but with two more days to come! Who knows?

Jack then made a further announcement – Jez Lees, a regular with Lewiinski’s - will once again take part in the annual ‘cross bay swim’. He was unable to compete last year due to injury but the year before he made it in 1 hour 16 mins. 100 baht of each entry in the Ryder Cup was being donated to Jez’s charity in addition there was to be a ‘sweep’ to guess Jez’s time this year. 50% to be as prizes and 50% added to the ‘fund’. Some bars had already started collections for this popular local teacher and Jack added that Pattaya Sports Club had agreed to match whatever sum was raised – this was greeted with a big cheer.

Colin then announced that the Lewiinski’s ‘Snowball’ was in operation today and stood at over 3,000 baht – and the winner drawn out was? - John Emmerson! – John immediately donated all to the charity! The true spirit of ‘The Ryder Cup – Pattaya Style ‘ thus concluding a great day out!

Wednesday, Sept. 22, Khao Kheow - Ryder Cup (Day 2)

The challenging Khao Kheow was the course chosen for better ball competition, it was in pretty good nick although the tees were forward as many of the regular yellow boxes were under repair, but it was excellent value for the money, which included a complimentary drink afterwards.

The North Americans, many dressed in the team colours of the day, green, (Khao Kheow??) arrived with a glint in their eyes hoping to avenge the results of Monday!

It all started well with a virtually deserted course and most of the 60 players arriving early, which is a help for the organisers, however one lonely sole was a little late having gone to Pleasant Valley! (need Sat Nav……?)

We were away on time and it was hot and sunny – for a couple of hours - then the heavens opened together with some serious thunder and lightning and KK sensibly sounded the siren even though it was a little late after the first bolt somewhere over the island green on B. So the drink stops were busy for an hour or so before we were off again on a somewhat soggy – but playable course.

As the teams came in to report their scores to Captains Bob and Brad, it was clear that Team North America had fared better following Monday’s performance, although the full result was not made available.

So a shower a drink and a brief chat and we were off to The Golf Bar in LK Metro where John and his team provided a superb barbecue and the free drink as part of the overall deal.

Capt’ Brad then announced the result for the day - N. Americans 6ฝ , Europeans 10ฝ putting the two day position at N. America 11 against the European total of 22, setting up a final singles day at The Emerald with all to play for but the Europeans with a real chance of taking back the trophy, requiring just 12 wins from the 34 matches scheduled to be played.

Jez Lees (Cross Bay swim) came in and was delighted to be told so far he had over 25,000 baht in sponsorships with more to come from the ongoing ‘sweep’.

Friday, Sept. 24, The Emerald - Ryder Cup (Day 3)

After the first two days, with the Europeans having taken a substantial lead (22 to 11) over the North Americans; it was the turn of the popular Emerald to host the singles. Could the Europeans maintain their lead? Or could the Americans make up the deficit? With 34 points available it was going to make for an interesting day.

The Emerald was in fine condition and busy but we were away a little before time – all from the first - with some fine golf being played by both teams, particularly Marty Allred who shot a gross 69 to easily brush Simon Philbrook aside 6 & 4, and a friend of Pierre Bietry’s, whose name we have yet to discover, who fired a gross 74, to dispose of the European Captain, Bob Newell, 3 & 2.

Coming back to the Clubhouse, the two Captains – Brad and Bob were noting the results – keeping the final result to themselves until the formal presentation.

It was then back to The Outback Golf Bar which was packed with players and some partners as well as some friends. As part of this Ryder Cup the bell was rung for the players and great food was produced which was enjoyed by all.

It was then time for the results to be announced – MC, Nigel Cannon, began the proceedings by welcoming all on behalf of Bob and Jack to the Outback. He then expressed thanks to the three bars taking part in this Ryder Cup and to the manner & spirit in which all three days have been played; Lewiinski’s – Colin, The Golf Club – John, and the Outback Golf Bar –Jack, all getting together in the interest of golf! Special appreciation was made to the coordinator of the event, Jack Moseley – which was endorsed by all by way of applause.

During these three days old friendships were renewed, and new ones made.

It was now time for the final result – the Americans made a determined effort of this last day with 15 1/2 points to the Europeans 18 1/2. The final score was Europe 40 1/2 - America 26 1/2.

Both Captains the expressed their appreciation for the organisation and the manner in which the whole event had been played. As Team North America were the holders from two years back, Brad then handed over the trophy to Bob to much applause, where it will be on display at The Outback Golf Bar for one year, taking pride of place next to The President’s Cup trophy before being handed to Lewiinski’s for the second year.

Moving away from golf, Nigel introduced Jez Lees who will be taking part in the ‘Cross Bay’ swim on November 7th who said a few words of his estimated timing and expressed his thanks for the donations made so far for his charity and appreciation the PSC for their generous offer to match the sum raised. The charity sweep will remain open up until the day of the swim, so if you reckon you know how long it will take Jez to swim the bay and you want to have a punt, for 500 baht, you can pick a time between 55mins and 1 hour 20mins, to be in with a chance, please contact one of the three bars.

VFW Post 9876 move into the lead as Kronborg stumble

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Mio, Ooy, Joe and Lek.

VFW Post 9876 moved up to first place after taking all four points from Jack Tar and Café Kronborg dropped to second place after losing four to House of the Golden Coin.

Tui Amphanon bowled a 521 series for VFW and Ooy Pluemkamon had a great 622 series with games of 199, 222 and 201 for Jack Tar. Mio Aamlid led Golden Coin with a 213 game, 552 series and Kran Nielsen was best for Kronborg with a 555 series. Golden Coin moved up from seventh place to fifth.

Brother D remain in third place after splitting their match with USMC. Joe Ferral had a 201 game, 531 series for the USMC and Dang Downs rolled a 509 for Brother D.

Canada moved up from sixth to fourth after winning all four points from Green Tree. Lek Reaper led Canada to victory with a 206 game and 530 series. Meanwhile Sabai Friday and Bavaria split their match with each team getting two points. They bowled on the tough lanes 5-6 and no bowler had a good game. Pauline, bowling as a Pacer, had a 513 series.

Results & Standings Sept. 24 (week 15) Pos.    Team                                       Score       Standings 1         VFW Post 9876                       4 - 0       41.5 - 18.5 2         Café Kronborg                        0 - 4           40 - 20 3         Brother D                                  2 - 2       33.5 - 26.5 4         Canada                                     4 - 0       30.5 - 29.5 5         House of the Golden Coin    4 - 0           30 - 30 6         Sabai Friday                            2 - 2           30 - 30 7         Green Tree                                0 - 4       28.5 - 31.5 8         USMC                                       2 - 2           26 - 34 9         Bavaria                                     2 - 2           22 - 38 10       Jack Tar                                    0 - 4           18 - 42