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Rain stops play but not the fun at 2011
Pattaya International Cricket Sixes
Pattaya Stallions take on Village CC in one of
Friday’s round-robin matches.
The final day of the 2nd Pattaya International Cricket
Sixes played last Sunday was going splendidly, featuring some fabulous
cricket, until the heavens opened to a tropical downpour as the finals
began, washing out the rest of the day’s play.
Fourteen teams from around the world competed over three
days from April 22-24 for silverware and enjoyed the hospitality of the
newest tournament on the Asian Cricket Sixes Tour, staged in the wonderful
surroundings of the Horseshoe Point Resort.
The local schoolboys of GIS Gladiators were particularly
impressive on the final day, winning through to the Bowl Final versus Phuket
outfit the Village Cricket Club.
The Village Cricket Club had won through to the Bowl
Final in an exciting encounter against the Asian All Stars. The Stars had
batted first and put on a reasonable 50 runs. Fifteen year old Yogesh of the
All Stars then delivered a magnificent spell of bowling, taking 2 wickets in
a cheap over to give the All Stars hope of reaching the final, and earning
him the ACST Player of the Day award. But the Villagers reached the target
with 3 balls to spare led by impressive batting by their wicketkeeper Mark.
Players
head for shelter as the rain comes down at Horseshoe Point on Sunday.
As all of the four finals were washed out by rain
organizers used a count-back system of most wins, and if still even, best
net run rate, to determine positions.
A local derby match-up between the Pattaya Thoroughbreds
and the Pattaya Colts had occurred in the Shield Final. On count-back the
Thoroughbreds came out on top with a higher net run rate and were awarded
the Shield.
The boys from the GIS Gladiators juniors lifted the Bowl
trophy after the count-back showed that they had a higher number of wins
than the Village CC. They were also awarded the Spirit of Cricket Award for
their sportsmanship and determination to do well.
In an impressive tournament for local Pattaya cricket,
the Pattaya Stallions had won through to the Plate Final versus Josephite 2.
But the team from Bangladesh took the Plate title on count-back by the very
narrowest of margins. Equal on wins, Josephite 2 had a net run rate of
1.7478 against the Stallions 1.7475!
The Cup final was to have been contested in an
all-Bangladeshi affair by Josephite 1 and the KC Club. Earlier Josephite 1
had convincingly defeated early favourites and compatriots Narayangang CC,
and on count-back the Josephite team pipped the KC club on net run rate to
become Cup champions of the 2nd Pattaya International Cricket Sixes.
Player of the Tournament was awarded to Athar of KC Club
for his superb bowling throughout the three day event.
Despite the weather putting a literal dampener on
proceedings on the field it was an excellent tournament followed by a gala
presentation dinner at Horseshoe Point supported by the Tourism Authority of
Thailand.
Tournament Director Ian Liddell of the ACST said, “It’s
been a great tournament despite the weather, with cricket action for all
levels of ability.
“Horseshoe Point is a fantastic location to stage a
cricket tournament, the teams have thoroughly enjoyed their week on and off
the field,” he continued.
For further information about the Pattaya International
Cricket Sixes see the tournament website at www. pattayasixes.com. Teams
wishing to register early for next year’s event can do so by contacting
Michael Maher at [email protected].
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United come up short in Isaan
Pattaya United (blue shirts) defend against Si
Sa Ket FC at the Sri Nakhon Lamduan Games stadium in Si Sa Ket, Sunday,
April 24.
Staff reporters
Pattaya United’s title ambitions were dealt a serious
blow last Sunday after they crashed to a 2-0 defeat at struggling Si Sa Ket
Muang Thai FC in the hostile environment of the Sri Nakhon Lamduan Games
football stadium.
The game started brightly for United and they showed the
most attacking ambitions of the two sides for the opening 15 minutes, with
Siriwong coming close to opening the scoring from a swerving 30 yard
free-kick.
Somewhat against the run of play however it was the hosts
who grabbed the lead in the 23rd minute. A left wing
free kick was swung into the United penalty area by Ngamcharoen and when the
Dolphins failed to clear their lines, the ball dropped to the feet of
Brazilian midfielder Victor Amaro who made no mistake to fire the ball past
Narit from 10 yards out.
It was hardly a lead the home side deserved but it gave
them fresh impetus and the confidence to go on the offensive and ex-United
frontman Tana Chanabut almost doubled the advantage on the half-hour mark
with a long range free kick that flew just over the United crossbar.
The visitors were caught napping once more just before
half-time from an almost identical situation to the first goal. A left wing
free-kick was lofted into the area once more by Ngamcharoen and it somehow
evaded all the United defenders to fall kindly onto the head of the home
side’s Guy Hubert who nodded the ball over Narit into the back of the net.
It was a big blow for United, coming just before the
break, but they started the second half in a positive fashion and carved out
scoring chances for both Obatola and Ludovick in quick succession but
without ultimately being able to pierce the stubborn Si Sa Ket back line.
The home side almost put the game out of reach on the
hour mark after another Ngamcharoen free kick created panic in the Pattaya
defence but none of the Si Sa Ket forwards could provide the finishing
touch.
United battle manfully to try to get back into the game
but the lacked any real punch in the final third of the field and time ran
out with the home side holding on for an important 2-0 win.
United remain in seventh place in the league but they are
in danger of losing touch with leaders Buriram who head them by 11 points
already with more than half of the season remaining.
United face another long away trip this coming weekend to face Chiang Rai
on Sunday while second placed Chonburi have a home fixture against BEC Tero
Sasana on Saturday.
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Chris Kays rugby festival
ready for kick off
Exciting action from the
Chris Kays Pattaya Rugby 10’s Festival.
The 11th staging of the colourful Chris Kays Memorial
10’s rugby festival will take place this coming weekend at Horseshoe Point
in Pattaya with sixteen international and local teams, split into 4 pool
groups, all set to battle it out for honours in the Cup, Bowl, Plate and
Shield competitions.
To run concurrently with the senior tournament, there
will also be an under 18’s rugby competition for the juniors staged at the
same venue with eight teams taking part. The U 18’s tournament will be
played from 16:00 to 19:00 on Saturday evening and will conclude between
08:00 and 10:00 on Sunday morning.
The Pattaya Rugby Festival has become one of the most
prestigious competitions in the region and has earned a deserved reputation
as a player and spectator friendly tournament. Disco music will be provided
at the field and throughout the weekend by popular DJ Russell Jay and his
Soundzgood Discotheques, and the tournament may also feature on live radio
on Mix 88.5 FM.
The action begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday and concludes
around 6 p.m. Sunday in what should be a memorable weekend festival of rugby
that will feature almost 24 hours of entertaining rugby action over the two
days.
Prior to the tournament there will be a players and
friends get-together on Friday night (29th April) for
a “welcoming party and training session” at The Tavern by the Sea in the
Amari Orchid Resort.
Everyone is cordially invited to come along and enjoy
what has become one if the highlights of the Pattaya sporting calendar and
an event not to be missed. Proceeds from the tournament will go towards
helping the Croston House Children’s Home in northern Thailand.
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Stage set for 2011 Top of the Gulf Regatta
Crew from around the world to compete with domestic sailors in the Gulf of Thailand
Mixed fleet startline
action at the TOG Regatta.
Story & Photos
Duncan Worthington
The largest ever fleet of sailing boats in Thailand is
set to sail at the seventh Top of the Gulf Regatta (TOG Regatta) held 29th
April to 3rd May 2011 at Ocean Marina Yacht Club,
Pattaya. 251 boats and over 500 sailors of 30 nationalities, will race over
three courses in what has become the largest annual sailing event in
Thailand.
“The entry list for the 2011 TOG Regatta is looking very
strong with many new participants and friends returning from around Thailand
and the world to take part. The Regatta continues to grow and we are looking
forward to the largest ever event this year,” said William Gasson, Founder
and Chairman of the Regatta Organising Committee.
Australian entry “Evolution Racing”, 2010 IRC Racing 1 class winner, returns
to defend its title.
Founded in 2005, the Top of the Gulf Regatta is unique as
sailing events go in Thailand, bringing together local and international
sailors – novices, professionals, regional and world champions alike – in a
multi-class regatta format with boats ranging from seven foot to 70 foot.
The standard of competition at the TOG Regatta, throughout the classes, is
as high as anywhere to be found on the Asian yachting circuit.
To accommodate the boat range, racing will take place on
three courses, with the keelboats and ocean multihulls on course one.
At press time, 30 boats are expected to compete in the
IRC classes with a likely three division split. The battle between Ray
Roberts and crew on Evolution Racing, and Neil Pryde and his crew on
HiFi, will be one to watch as they compete for the class title and
also for valuable points in the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship. 10
boats in each of the Cruising and Ocean Multihull classes are expected to
compete, while in the one-design Platu class, 16 boats will compete for the
prestigious Coronation Cup.
Calling
tactics on the water.
The Coronation Cup is unique to the TOG Regatta and was
established in 1996 with 24 entries. The first one-design Coronation Cup
date coincided with the anniversary of His Majesty the King of Thailand’s
Coronation date, 5th May 1950. From there, the
one-design Platu Coronation Cup was born and today, Ocean Marina Yacht Club
is home to the largest Platu fleet in Asia, regularly attracting top crews
from around the world to take part in one-design Platu racing in the Gulf of
Thailand, with the jewel in the Platu racing crown being the Coronation Cup.
The second course is for the largest fleet of boats with
125 Optimists expected, racing for the Thailand Optimist National title. In
1976 the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand started Junior Sailing, a
programme to encourage and train young Thai sailors and send them to compete
in international sailing events. In the same year, YRAT started what was
then called the Optimist Thailand Championship Cup, known today as the
Thailand Optimist Nationals. Now in its 35th year, the
Thailand Optimist Nationals is as competitive as ever, with many leading
Thai juniors, international teams and world champions competing for the
title.
Youth
sailors in the Thailand Optimist Nationals jostle for position at the
startline..
Past winner and 2010 World Champion, Noppakao Poonpat,
having reached the class age limit, will not be contesting this year’s
Thailand Optimist Nationals, leaving the title chase wide open. Held over
three days, the Nationals will this year be followed by the inaugural
Thailand Open Opti Team Racing Championship, on 3rd
May. Organised together with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand
(YRAT), teams expected to take part include the Thai team, Royal Varuna
Yacht Club, Samui and Phuket teams, plus teams from other Asian countries
including from as far away as India.
“The Top of the Gulf Regatta is a valuable training
ground for junior sailors and we are proud to support Optimist and dinghy
sailing. Introducing the Team Racing Championship this year will give Asian
teams a chance to compete against the Thai team which won the 2010 World
Team Racing Championship,” added Gasson.
On the third racing course, over 60 dinghies and beach
catamarans are expected, with sailors from Fiji, Australia, New Zealand and
other Asean countries taking part.
The Regatta is supported by the Principle Sponsor Ocean
Marina as host venue. Co-Sponsors include Land Rover and Range Rover, Thai
Airways, Gulf Charters and Mont Clair Wines as Co-sponsors. A large
contribution was also made by an anonymous sailor this year.
Other sponsors include Ocean Property Co. Ltd., PTT
Exploration and Production Plc., Singha Corporation Group, Thai Numthip Co.,
Ltd., (Coca Cola), Lucaris, Bangkok Pattaya Hospital, Golden Foods Siam
Ltd., Bank of Ayudhya Plc., Seat Boat Co., Ltd., Corsair Marine Thailand
Co., Ltd., QBE Insurance (Thailand) Co., Ltd., M๕venpick ice cream, Nivea,
CAT Telecom, Media Representation International and Sail Quest. Media
partners include Pattaya Mail, SEA Yachting magazine, Ensign Media and Mix
88.5 FM.
The event is supported by the Yacht Racing Association of
Thailand (YRAT), Royal Varuna Yacht Club and Pattaya City.
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TOG 2011 Schedule
Friday 29th April
10:00 - 18:30 Registration at Ocean Marina Yacht
Club
18:00 Drinks on the Lawn
Saturday 30th April
Race Day One
09:00 Briefing Ocean Marina Yacht Club
11:00 Racing starts (all classes)
18:30 Opening Ceremony with cocktails and wines
at Ocean Marina
Sunday 1st May
Race Day Two
11:00 Racing starts (all classes)
17:00 - 19:00 Daily prize-giving and drinks on
the lawn
Monday 2nd May
Race Day Three
11:00 Racing starts (all classes: last day for
the Thailand Optimist Nationals)
17:00 - 19:00 Thailand Optimist Nationals
prize-giving and drinks on the lawn
Tuesday 3rd May
Race Day Four
11:00 Racing starts (all classes: inaugural one
day
Thailand Open Opti Team Racing Championship)
18:00 Ocean Marina Yacht Club Gala Dinner and
Regatta prize-giving |
For more information go to
www.topofthegulfregatta.com.
RACING CLASSES
The 2011 Top of the Gulf Regatta will have the following
classes, subject to entries received.
IRC Racing 1
IRC Racing 2
IRC Racing 3
Cruising
Sports Boats
Platu – Competing for the Coronation Cup
Ocean Multihulls
Hobie Tiger
Hobie 16'
Open Monohull Dinghy – Beach launched monohulls
Laser
Optimist – Competing in the Thailand Optimist Nationals
The Race Committee may change the above eligibility factors and number of
classes based on its analysis of the entries received. Should sufficient
enquiries be made and entries received the Race Committee may provide
classes for Lasers, and other Beach Catamaran classes.
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Sports day and staff party
at Thai Garden Resort
The Thai
Garden Resort management players prepare to take on the female staff team at
football.
The Thai Garden Resort organized their annual sports day
and staff party on April 4th this year. Sport games
such as football, volleyball and sepak takraw had been ongoing for a week
when the final games were played, and at the end every winning team got
their trophy.
On Monday the 4th of April it was time for fun with games
like sack race, an obstacle course and a fun football game between the
management of the hotel and a selection of female staff from the hotel which
was only just won with a score of 3-2 by the management team.
In the evening the same day, the activities concluded
with the staff party at the Moon River Pub in front of the Thai Garden
Resort. Some departments prepared a show with an open theme and all had a
really good time enjoying themselves.
A part of the evening was also the appreciation of the
senior employees, some of them already work with the hotel since the day of
the opening more than 20 years ago.
Before the party got started with a rich food buffet and
live music, every staff took part in a lucky draw, where sponsored prizes
were distributed to all. All together it was a very successful sports day
and staff party where everyone had a lot of fun.
The management of the Thai Garden Resort thanked all staff for a
successful business year and look forward to continue in this way.
Employees receive their service awards
at the staff party held April 4 at the Moon River Pub.
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Pattaya Mountain Bike
Challenge this weekend
The 2011 edition of the Pattaya Mountain Bike Challenge
will take place over the coming weekend, April 30 – May 1. The course, as in
past years, will be set on the testing Pratamak Hill location and will
involve both downhill and cross-country disciplines.
 Head
over to Pratamnak Hill in south Pattaya this weekend for the 2011 Pattaya
Mountain Bike Challenge.
The downhill races are set to take place on Saturday, April 30 and the
cross-country the following day. The longest of the courses will be
approximately 6.5km long.
Riders will be split into several age and gender
categories and with more than 100,000 baht in prize money up for grabs it is
expected that some of Thailand’s top mountain bikers will be wheeling their
way into Pattata to take part.
There are no restrictions on participation at the event and anyone
wishing to take part can get further information by calling 081 315 5778 or
086 146 0146.
Kathy on top at the Valley
PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society
Sunday, April 17, Green Valley - Stableford
1st Kathy Doody (20) 40pts
2nd Dave Boran (14) 38pts
3rd
Kevin Mcentee (6) 37pts
With some 27 players seeking the relative dryness of
Royal Hills and another dozen seeking running tap water at Soi Dao, the
society’s numbers for the week were greatly impacted.
Kathy
Doody.
You can talk about the water hazard on the A3 Khao Kheow,
or the water in front of the 1st the signature hole at
Green Valley, or anything on the right side of any hole at Eastern Star, but
as anyone who stayed in Pattaya this week nothing is quite as hazardous as
the eight days of cultural lust that is extreme city during Songkran.
For any of our readers it is a rare Sunday where there is
only one flight and three places but that doesn’t diminish the fine effort
of Kathy Doody, a cool 40 points to take the day’s honours. Dave Boran
returned a solid38 points for the day’s silver while the Co. Offaly gang
were log jammed on 37 points with the gang leader Kevin coming out on top of
Big Matt Doyle and Andy Byrne.
John Lay collected a very healthy 2’s pot.
Wednesday, April 20, St.
Andrews - Stableford
1st Brian Dunbar (12) 42pts
2nd John Hughes (7) 40pts
3rd
Colin Davis (15) 35pts
A relatively small but dry group teed it up at Desmond
Muirhead’s monster St Andrews. Brian Dunbar found it to his liking as he
blasted a great 42 points for the day’s top spot. John Hughes must have
thought he had done enough with 40 points, and he had - he just did it on
the wrong day! The Donkey took third place as a count-back elevated him over
Jon Haugen.
John Hughes added the 2’s pot to his second place finish.
Friday, April 22, Mountain
Shadow - Stableford
A Flight
1st Matt Doyle (13) 33pts
2nd Andy Byrne (12) 32pts
B Flight
1st Gordon Wallace (15) 36pts
2nd
Sean Soden (20) 35pts
When the society plays Mountain Shadow the field usually
takes on the blue tees because they are only 6,276 yards. Undaunted, Gordon
Wallace rounded out the week with a best of the day even par round at this
potentially treacherous layout. Sean Soden was a shot adrift tin second
place.
The flagship flight was a bit at half mast, as the Offaly
gang filled the podium; big Matt Dole on 33 points and Andrew Byrne with a
32 point count-back victory over the unlucky Mark Riley..
No 2’s so a rollover on Sunday.
After the game the lads had to shower in 80 percent
humidity as the management refused to turn on the air-con, citing not enough
golfers on the course!
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.
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Chang cans his second ‘Ace’
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Monday, April 18, The
Emerald – Stableford
It was expected to be a quiet week due to the
Songkran festival, with many people disappearing out of the Jomtien and
Pattaya area and also a few hibernating in their condos or houses until
the festivities were over.
William Chang holds up his ‘hole in one’ plaque.
We had 18 out today and the cut in division 1 was
6-17 and 18+ in division 2. Our last group went out at ten past ten and
there were no other bookings after that according to the starter.
With 20 points on the front nine and playing off 7,
Wichai Tanasusorn won division 1 with 37 points. Erkki Koivisto came in
second one point behind and Dave Edwards was third on 35 points.
Well and truly in form at the moment, Chris Reed won
division 2 with 35 points, Ian Hart was second 5 points behind and David
Phillips took third on 29.
Pranee Bossett headed the ladies division with 24
points.
Wichai birdied the 15th for the
only ‘2’ of the day so there were two rollovers in division 2 to Green
Valley on Wednesday.
Wednesday, April 20,
Green Valley – Stableford
We alternate our starting tee here on in each visit
from over the water to the one past the drinks station in the corner as
this keeps everyone happy. Walking to the first tee we noticed the
eighteenth green had been heavily sanded and holitized and we checked
the second and this was the same. We asked the caddies and every green
was the same. For this time of the year it is understandable, you have
to expect it, but a reduction in the green fee might have been more
acceptable. We will be checking on the progress and the price before we
return again.
Remarkable scores were returned today considering the
green conditions, 23 on the front nine from Chris Reed gave him division
2 with 44 points in total. William Chang had a hole in one on the fourth
and came in second with 43 and Lee Casey beat Kevin Tobin on a 12/9 back
six count-back after they both scored 16 on the back nine and 38 points
overall.
Ya Riley, still playing off the white tees off 15,
won division 1 with 41 points while Ted Gardner came second after
beating Bryan Rought on a 22/19 count-back with both players tied on 39
points.
If her husband is not on the podium, guess who, Josie
Monks won the ladies flight. Well done Josie!
In the ‘2’s today Ya Riley birdied the 15th
in division 1 and there were two rollovers in division 2 but this was
superseded as William Chang’s hole in one on the par-three 4th took
precedence -the whole pot in two divisions plus the rollovers. Sorry Ya.
There were congratulations all round back at Siam Cats, it takes a
lifetime for many people to achieve but this is William’s second ace
after his first on the lighthouse hole at Plutaluang in Dec 2007.
Friday, April 22,
Eastern Star – Stableford
There were a few cuts in the handicaps since
Wednesday’s game at Green Valley and the returned scores were more
realistic today. There was nobody out in front of us and with a few
cancellations overnight and a no show on the first there was slight
confusion at the start - so 4 three-balls went out plus 2 four-balls.
Commiserations to Toi Blair who was the only lady out
in her division, with overnight no shows, and she scored 37 points and
birdied the 3rd hole with no ladies competition
today.
Michael Dige won division 1, playing off 5, with 36
points after beating Ya Riley on a 20/16 back nine count-back. Paul
Butler was back in the fold with 33 points for third.
Another count-back in division 2 and with 3 shots
less on his handicap Chris Reed lost out to Lee Casey on a 17/16 back
nine decision after they both scored 33 points. Jim Lane took third on
32.
Two Eastern Star rollovers in division 1 plus today’s pot were shared
by Paul Butler, Michael Dige and Chris Voller in the ‘2’s competition
while Joe Kubon scooped the second division prize with a birdie on the 3rd.
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A Songkran shortened week
Golf from the Travellers Rest
Barry Hooper
This report is going to be short and sweet. Why? Because
this week I am only able to report on two outings by the TRGG. The reason
behind this was Songkran. I could not attend either outing so no pics –
sorry!
Because of the total disruption to what are called normal
activities in Pattaya over the holidays, it was decided not to try and
organise any local outings for golf. But a group of our regulars did travel
out from town for three days of social golf elsewhere.
I reported last week that on Thursday the 14th
we had planned our usual weekly visit to Phoenix but duly cancelled when we
were advised that the prices were being hiked for Songkran. However, after a
few phone calls late arrangements were made to attend Eastern Star who had
duly offered us an attractive rate for the day’s play. Thank you Eastern
Star.
We did subsequently return back to Phoenix at our agreed
regular pricing on the following Thursday, 21st April,
with some twenty one players and the results of play are listed over the two
divisions.
Thursday, April 14,
Eastern Star – Stableford
1st Richard Goad (12) 35pts
2nd Bill McGarvie (9) 30pts
3rd Richard Talbot (20) 28pts
Thursday, April 21, Phoenix - Stableford
A Flight
1st Bill McGarvie (9) 37pts
2nd Larry Simpson (11) 35pts
3rd Richard Petterson (5) 33pts
B Flight
1st Richard Goad (12) 35pts
2nd Stephen Smith (21) 34pts
3rd
Mike Rushant (12) 32pts
A reminder that the TRGG organises golf outings four
times a week at some of the most attractive costings around and a list of
the courses being visited can be seen on the website listed below and in the
Pattaya Mail weekly golf schedule. Our normal golf service is being resumed
from this week.
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 call in to the
Travellers Rest in Soi LK Metro, Pattaya and look at the notice board or
visit their website at www.trgg.biz.
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Beware the weary golfer
PSC Golf from the Café Kronborg
Peter Blackburn
Thursday, April 21,
Pattaya Country Club – Monthly Mug/Stroke
As was to be expected for this time of year, and
immediately after Songkran, our numbers were well down and just 10 keen and
faithful golfers assembled at Café Kronborg in readiness for the journey to
Pattaya Country Club to compete for the Café Kronborg April Monthly Mug.
Peter
Blackburn, left, receives his Cafe Kronborg April Monthly Mug from Bjarne
Nielsen.
We welcomed back The Admiral from his annual S.A.T. to
the USA and your writer after 3 weeks in Perth, Australia. After arriving
back in Pattaya in the early hours I was thinking that 3 hours sleep is
hardly the ideal preparation for a round of stroke!
We headed off at 0815 on the dot and arrived at the
course just 25 minutes later. For just about the first time ever there was
no-one waiting on the first tee so our first group teed off at 0910hrs, well
ahead of schedule. The weather was fine although fairly hot and humid and it
was apparent the course had received plenty of rain recently but in spite of
many of the bunkers containing much water the fairways were OK and the
greens also, although an few of them had been sanded.
Even after having several drink stops our round was
completed in just under four hours which is excellent for a stroke round,
although we were a threesome.
Just the 1 flight plus the Monthly Mug winner due to the
low numbers and no novelty prizes on this occasion.
The winner of the Monthly Mug was yours truly who somehow
shrugged off his weariness to post his best score in a long time of net 69.
Wayne Koch took out the flight honours with a net 70, marginally ahead of
his good mate Brian Noguer on net 71 who beat Jon Haugen finishing third on
a count-back.
Many thanks once again to Bjarne and his family and staff
at Café Kronborg for their continued support of this monthly event.
Monthly Mug
1st Peter Blackburn (17) net 69
A Flight
1st Wayne Koch (22) net 70
2nd Brian Noguer (22) net 71
3rd Jon Haugen (9) net 71
The Compass Cap was not available today much to the
relief of Ken and Hugh and Deefa the Dog was with his master, Hunter,
playing golf up the bush somewhere.
The sheet is now up in the Kronborg for Papa Ray Roger’s
Birthday Anniversary Tournament at Plutaluang on Tuesday, 10th
of May. It will be a four man scramble and the entrance fee will be 600 baht
which includes dinner back at Papa Ray’s house plus a memento of the
occasion.
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Broken Wing strolls to an easy win at Emerald
Golf from the Backyard Golf Society
On arrival at Emerald Golf Course last week we were all
very pleased to see Neville back with us after his tour of Asia and
Australia. But, as soon as another guy turns up, we have to say goodbye to
some else and this time it was Dannie L, so have a good trip mate and we
will see you in six weeks.
‘Broken
Wing’ celebrates his win outside Senorita’s Bar.
Right, pleasantries done, onto the competition and with 9
players in total and with a few rollovers it turned out to be a good week
apart from the scoring. ‘Broken Wing’ took the game with 34 points and his
closest challenger was JJ who came in second with a meager 27.
With the tee moved up on the nearest the pin hole, Andy
Oz took the prize plus 2 rollovers from previous weeks. Skin results were as
follows: Broken Wing (8), Martyn (8), Neville (1) plus one rolled over to
the next week.
Bob G deserves a special mention as he took away another
of Dangle’s records by recording 11 scratches to tie in second place for the
most claimed by a players in the Backyard Golf Society!
After finishing the golf it was down the road for a few beers and to see
Dannie L off in style.
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Outbackers hit the hills for Songkran
Outback Golf Bar Royal Hills Road Trip - 16th - 19th April
The
winners at Royal Hills (from left to right) Ed Delaney, John Stafford, Mon
Bennett, Sel Wegner, Bernie Stafford and Paul Greenaway.
Saturday, April 16, Royal
Hills - Practice Round
As Pattaya Songkran was reaching its peak 23 Outbackers,
many with their partners, took to the hills – Royal Hills at Nakhon Nayok
just three hours away, to spend four days at this truly magnificent resort.
As we arrived we were warmly greeted by the staff with
welcoming drinks and time for a rest before we played the practice round
leading up to the three day competition. Checking in to the hotel was quick
and efficient and the accommodation was first class.
Nineteen took part in the afternoon round and found the
course in excellent order living up to its reputation that came from a
number who had played the course recently. It was very hot but still a
number decided to walk!
As we came in we met up with many friends from
Lewiinski’s under the command of Captain Pierre Bietry, who were also there
for a few days before heading off to Kabinburi.
With 19 players it was 1–5 places plus ‘2’s.
In top spot on a short break from work in Vietnam, was
‘the Project Manager’, Neil Lavery (11) with 37 points, with the runner-up
just two shots behind, having his only wipe on the 18th and walking, was
Paul Bourke (10) with 35. Third went to one of Ireland’s favourite sons, big
John Stafford (21) with 34.
Top
scorer on Day 1 - John Stafford.
Fourth and fifth were decided on count-back with ‘Our
Lady’, Suzi Lawton (17) and Owen Wakley (11) both with 32 points with Suzi
getting the nod.
There was just one 2 from Paul Bourke.
1st Neil Lavery (11) 37pts
2nd Paul Bourke (11) 35pts
3rd John Stafford (21) 34pts
4th Suzi Lawton (17) 32pts
5th Owen Walkley (11) 32pts
Sunday, April 17, Royal Hills – Round 1
With a 9 a.m. tee time there was plenty of time to enjoy
the excellent buffet breakfast before heading out to the first tee,
conveniently situated nearby. The full complement of 23 played in the
opening round of the ‘2nd Royal Hills Classic.’
It was another extremely hot day but just a little cooler
for the first hour or so but the course was almost empty so it was a quick
round and back in the clubhouse for lunch and think how to spend the
afternoon.
Leading from the front in Division A and coming in first
place was Capt’ Bob (10) with 36 points while in second was the previous
day’s practice round winner, Paul Bourke (11) with 35.
Bernie
Stafford after his 42 points on Day 2.
Never far away was the consistent Paul Greenaway (9)
taking third on 32, with four on 30 points, Jez Lees with the best back nine
(21) getting 4th.
The best score of the day, 39 points, was achieved by
John Stafford (20), which gave first place in the second division, followed
in by another Irish friend, and good to see him on the podium, Ed Delaney
(29) with 36. Mick Leighton (15) on a rare break, scored 35 points which was
good enough for third with Sel Wegner (14) and Tony McDonough (14) thrashing
out the final place, both on 34.
Note: After the results for the day were announced, we
discovered that both John Stafford and Bernie Stafford had played off
handicaps one less than they should have been. Whilst the day’s results and
scores remained unchanged, each player had one point added back to their
overall score.
Div A (0–13)
1st Bob Philp (10) 36pts
2nd Paul Bourke (11) 35pts
3rd Paul Greenaway (9) 32pts
4th Jez Lees (13) 30pts
Div B (14+)
1st John Stafford (20) 39pts
2nd Ed Delaney (29) 36pts
3rd Mick Leighton (15) 35pts
4th Sel Wegner (14) 34pts
Monday, April 18, Royal Hills – Round 2
It was hard to tell today which was hotter, the weather
or the scores, with five players in each of the divisions playing to their
handicap or better. It was a remarkable achievement which opened up the
two-day leader-board with ten players within six shots of the lead.
Bernie Stafford (13) found himself at the top, after his
blistering 42 points; not only top of his division (Div A) today but also
after two days of the three day tournament. Jack Spencer (11) was runner-up
with 39, which moved him to fifth overall, just four back. The lovely Mon
Bennett (13) and the not so lovely Neil Lavery (11) both racked up 38
points, to take third and fourth respectively.
Sel Wegner (14) took Div B with 38 points and moved to
second overall, as second and third places went to Jon Kittilsen and Suzi
Lawton, one point adrift. Nigel Cannon (23), who must be thanked for his
words, was fourth on count-back from Joe Mooneyham..
Div A (0–13)
1st Bernie Stafford (13) 42pts
2nd Jack Spencer (11) 39pts
3rd Kamol Thongkiew (13) 38pts
4th Neil Lavery (11) 38pts
Div B (14+)
1st Sel Wegner (14) 38pts
2nd John Kittilsen (20) 37pts
3rd Suzi Lawton (17) 37pts
4th Nigel Cannon (23) 36pts
Tuesday, April 19, Royal Hills – Round 3
And so it was, as is usual on the final day of the
competition ‘the first shall be last and the last shall be first’. Anybody
in the top ten could have won it as just six points covered the top ten
players, which was bound to pave the way to an exciting last day.
Although it was a little overcast to start, Royal Hills
came up with another fine and hot day. But first the day’s division results,
which again had some excellent scoring particularly in Div A as three
players all had 37 points. In the shake up, Paul Bourke took first over Mon
and Owen.
Div B didn’t fare quite so well but Ed Delaney turned in
another good score of 35 to win the division and to take the overall by just
one point. Tony McDonough squeezed into second ahead of Ed’s good friend,
Lawrie, both on 34, and Dennis, the Outback’s Turnip, got fourth with 33.
Div A (0–13)
1st Paul Bourke (11) 37pts
2nd Kamol Thongkiew (13) 37pts
3rd Owen Walkley (11) 37pts
4th Paul Greenaway (9) 36pts
Div B [14+]
1st Ed Delaney (29) 35pts
2nd Tony McDonough (14) 34pts
3rd Lawrie McBride (14) 34pts
4th
Dennis Persson (17) 33pts
So the final result of the 2nd
Royal Hills Classic is a win for Ed Delaney with a grand total of 105
beating the two Staffords (no relation), with 104.
On the ‘2’s there was a three day total of seven; Mon
Bennett (Day 1), Lawrie McBride & Jack Spencer (Day 2) and Suzi Lawton,
Dennis Persson and Tony McDonough (2), all on Day 3.
Overall 3-Day Standings
1st Ed Delaney (29) 105pts
2nd John Stafford (21) 104pts
3rd Bernie Stafford (13) 104pts
4th Sel Wegner (14) 103pts
5th Kamol Thongkiew (13) 102pts
6th Tony McDonough (14) 102pts
7th
Paul Greenaway (9) 101pts
Another fine Outback away tournament, where new friendships were made and
others renewed. Thanks go to both General Jack – who did much of the
organising but decided to stay behind and enjoy Songkran with his son, Harry
and Capt’ Bob who as usual is always there.
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Trembath leads home
ring-rusty field at Emerald
PSC golf from The Fairway Golf Society
Friday, April 22, The
Emerald - Stableford
There was only one outing again last week due to the
Songkran festival and it appeared that everyone was a little bit ring rusty
after the holiday as no one managed to play to their handicap.
Friday’s winner Ray Trembath.
One player, Brian Neal (alias Jekyll & Hyde) scored a
meager 4 points on the front nine then went on to score 18 on the back nine.
Second and third places with 33 points were separated on a 20-19 count back
- so it would seem that the back nine played a lot easier than the front. As
for the scribe – he played rubbish on both nines!
Ray Trembath took the win with his 35 points to finish
two ahead of Bob Crawford and Brian Maddox who took second and third
respectively.
Near pins went to ‘Birdie’ Billy Vickers, Bob Crawford,
Ning Neal & Ray Trembath.
1st Ray Trembath (9) 35pts
2nd Bob Crawford (26) 33pts
3rd
Brian Maddox (21) 33pts
Note: The Fairways Golf Society and Driving Range
is situated at the top of Pattaya Klang on Sukhumvit Road and plays every
Sun/Mon/Wed & Fri. Anyone wishing to play with our society can call into the
club house and put their names down on the lists provided or call Scott on
084 389 2379. Transport provided if required.
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Boran fires day’s best at Burapha
PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar
Monday, April 18, Burapha
- Stableford
With Capt’ Bob away in Royal Hills with many of the
regular Outbackers, and Pierre Bietry likewise away with many of the
Lewiinski regulars, it remained for General Jack to welcome 17 Lewiinski
players, under the leadership of Colin Davis, to the Burapha A & C nines.
Considering the time of year, a total of 38 players was
quite a remarkable turnout on a course that was in good nick but generally
void of players.
We were away slightly ahead of time, all from the first
tee, with the exception of two groups who started on the tenth and General
Jack gave everybody a break by nominating the white tees as the tee of the
day. As a result, the scoring was good with Dave Buchanan, who was supposed
to have gone back to work, once again excelling with a gross 71 to win Div
A, with 38 points. He beat another useful player, Gary Blackburne, who also
had 38 with Kerry Beck in third on 37.
Dave Boran (39pts), over here on one of his triannual
trips and having only his second game, not only won Div B but also took the
money for the second day running from his good friend, Gary.
Brian Byrne flew the flag for the visitors, winning Div C
with his 36 points, ahead of Ivan Plunkett and another Lewiinski man, Gerry
Rafferty, both with 34. Kev Fitzgerald who’s more at home with a piece of
astroturf and playing on sand, made a bit of history today, scoring 30
points on his first game back on grass, to take fourth place.
In the clubhouse at Burapha there was the usual draw for
free green fees, this time three of them (all going to the visitors) that
were drawn by Harry Moseley, the General’s son, who had his first experience
of playing in a golf tournament here in Thailand. He did admit afterwards as
he skied his tee shot on the first, that he was very nervous playing in
front of his Dad but he settled down and played reasonably well; but had
never experienced greens in the UK, quite as slick.
There were seven ‘2’s from Dave Boran, Gary Blackburne,
Svenn Lund, Dave Buchanan, Seamus Langan, Cameron Bellman & Kerry Beck.
Div A (0-11)
1st Dave Buchanan (1) 38pts
2nd Gary Blackburne (6) 38pts
3rd Kerry Beck (10) 37pts
4th Mark Raley (2) 33pts
Div B (12-17)
1st Dave Boran (16) 39pts
2nd John O’ Keefe (15) 37pts
3rd Matt Doyle (13) 36pts
4th Scott Chisholm (17) 35pts
Div C (18+)
1st Brian Byrne (20) 36pts
2nd Ivan Plunkett (20) 34pts
3rd Gerry Rafferty (18) 34pts
4th Kevin Fitzgerald (27) 30pts
Tuesday, April 19, Pattaya C.C. - Stableford
Just a small group of 12 players ignored the crazy
festivities of Pattaya and went about their golf in the normal way. This was
a day that only players from the ‘Dark Side’ and beyond could have played
with those living in the Pattaya ‘Light Side’ having no hope of getting home
til late.
David Day got his game plan right to take the top spot
with a fine 39 points, from Ke, as he tends to be known as, two points back
on 37. Visitor, Scott Chisholm (36pts), had another good showing ahead of
three all on 35.
Our thanks go to Chad who organised the day as usual, and
nice to see you’ve picked up your game a bit after your poor score on
Monday, 19 was it?
There was a ‘jackpot 2’ today from Mam Seesa.
1st David Day (16) 39pts
2nd Kurt Eric Persson (29) 37pts
3rd Scott Chisholm (17) 36pts
Wednesday, April 20, Phoenix - Stableford
Playing the Lake and Ocean nines, it was a quiet Phoenix
that greeted the 12 Outbackers. Difficult to get enthusiastic about this
course’s so called “Sports Day” rates, when you’re still being asked to pay
1,750 baht all up, for a cart on your own, which you can’t get within 20
yards of most tee boxes or 80 yards from most greens! Still Phoenix will be
Phoenix.
The course was in good condition as Mountain is closed
undergoing the seasonal work but the scores for some reason were very
average. Top of the stack, the cream of the crop, Dave Buchanan off a 1
H/cap won the day with 34 points, ahead of Steve Smith and ‘Fidge’, who was
having his last round for a few months, as he returns to Aus on Thursday; no
doubt we’ll see you later in the year around the Chiang Rai & Chiang Mai
time.
There were two ‘2’s from ‘Fidge’ Button and David
Buchanan.
1st Dave Buchanan (1) 34pts
2nd Steve Smith (21) 33pts
3rd Ian Button (15) 33pts
4th John Kittilsen (20) 31pts
Friday, April 22, Khao Kheow - Stableford
As Capt’ Bob was off coming second with his team in the
St. George’s Day Scramble at Burapha, General Jack took charge of the day’s
proceedings at Khao Kheow. 37 Outbackers tackled the wonderful A & B nines
but with the help of a serious drop of rain and a vicious storm on the back
nine, the course was once again victorious.
The check– in and tee off went smoothly as we were away
slightly ahead of time, with everybody present and correct plus Owen,
leaving us with a five-ball at the back, who incidentally, kept up very
well, well done lads!
One group was actually playing the B4 (their 13th
hole) when the siren went (well done to Khao Kheow for having one and using
it) but by the time they reached shelter at the nearest drinks stop, all
hell had broken loose; and within five minutes the storm was directly
overhead. One flash after another, kept the caddies jumping and you could
hardly blame them, but the beer was cold.
Khao Kheow is one of those courses that drains incredibly
quickly and it was worth the patience shown by many, as within about forty
minutes or so, we were back out there playing again in brilliant afternoon
sunshine.
The severely depleted Div B, with half the field of 12
going home, left the General the most unlikely winner with a mere 29 points,
followed in by Bernie Stafford (28pts) with Steve Plant ans The Sugarman
both on 26. Scotty Qua had the best score of the day, 34 points, to win Div
A, two ahead of Paul Bourke who was one in front of four players all with
31. After the usual count-back Kerry and Neil filled the two minor places.
The winner of Div C was the other Stafford in the
line-up, this time John who headed another Jon on count-back, both on 31; as
a surprised John White (26pts) took third, ahead of John Heaney in fourth.
There were four ‘2’s from Dave Buchanan, Paul Bourke,
Eddie Smith & Neil Lavery.
Div A (0-12)
1st Scott Qua (11) 34pts
2nd Paul Bourke (11) 32pts
3rd Kerry Beck (10) 31pts
4th Neil Lavery (11) 31pts
Div B (13-19)
1st Jack Moseley (15) 29pts
2nd Bernie Stafford (13) 28pts
3rd Steve Plant (15) 26pts
4th Sugar Ray Handford (16) 26pts
Div C (20+)
1st John Stafford (21) 31pts
2nd John Kittilsen (20) 31pts
3rd John White (25) 26pts
4th
John Heaney (20) 25pts
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.
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Emerson back with a bang
PSC golf from the Three Sisters Bar
Wednesday winner Larry Emerson, left, with runner-up Richard Hall.
Due to the holidays over Songkran the Three Sisters Golf
Group had a slight hiccup on the 6th of April and on
the 13th. We did have a couple of players go out but not enough for a
competition.
This past week, April 20th, we had a couple of groups,
enough to ring up some winners.
Larry Emerson, back from Bahrain, led the way with 39
points. Both he and Bill Thompson were going head to head on their drives
but Bill was losing it on the chips and putts.
In second place this week was Richard Hall with 35
points; he edged out Bill Thompson who came in with 34. Richard has been at
or near the top in his last couple of outings.
As it stands now, we are all gearing up to see who will
win the end of the month competition. We also want to discuss the
possibility of having a two-man scramble for the following week. See you
there.
P’s are very pleasing
PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside
Tuesday, April 19, Pattana
- Stableford
Pattana, Pleasant Valley & Pars, a pleasing experience
indeed. First off was Pattana on Tuesday, a revisit following a good report
a couple of weeks ago, and today was no different. The course was in great
nick with the A & B Nines being our test again, maybe playing a little
longer following some overnight rain.
Graham
Hiskett is all smiles following his second place finish at Pattana.
Jeff Wylie (7) best came to grips with the test best with
a sound but unspectacular 34 points while Graham Hiskett (15) scored 31
points to secure second spot. Near Pins were picked up by Herbie and Rob,
with 2 missed.
Thursday, April 21,
Pleasant Valley - Stableford
Pleasant Valley was our Thursday venue, another excellent
test, smooth fairways & greens, with a considerable drop off in length
compared to Tuesday.
Again it was Jeff Wylie to the fore with 35 points,
followed in by Ken Hole (15) with 32. Jeff, (2) and Ken also secured the
near pins with 1 being unclaimed.
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 089 094 1841 or 081 935 8088. Hope to see you there, Cheers &
Good Golfing!
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Habgood makes winning return
PSC golf from The Bunker Bar
Wednesday, April 20, Khaow
Kheow - Stableford
Colin Greig is making a determined bid to win the golfer
of the month title which has eluded him thus far, but he could only manage
third place today behind runner-up Alan Sullivan who, in turn, was a point
behind the winner JJ Harney who scored a pretty decent 33 points.
1st JJ Harney (11) 33pts
2nd Alan Sullivan (13) 32pts
3rd Colin Greig (12) 31pts
Near Pins: Colin Greig, Alan Sullivan and Nile Sheehan.
Friday, April 22, Eastern Star - Stableford
Peter Habgood made a successful return to golf after a
regular jolly to the Phillipines to get away from the Songkran madness in
Pattaya. 35 points at Eastern Star is no mean feat to win by a point ahead
of Stuart Tinkler, who also timed his annual holiday to get back just after
Songkran!
1st Peter Habgood (17) 35pts
2nd Stuart Tinkler (16) 34pts
3rd Mark Stanley (12) 30pts
Near Pins: Mark Stanley (2), Stuart Tinkler.
Antonnen’s top finish
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar, Soi Buakhao
Tuesday, Feb. 22,
Greenwood - Monthly PAGS Tournament
The Pattaya Golf Society shook off the frustration and
exasperation golfers annually suffer with Songkran and made a glorious
return to Bangpra for a stableford competition on Wednesday. 20th April. The
course was well turned out again and the greens were back to their notorious
best as the large field, divided into two flights at thirteen and under,
took to the first tee on time.
The second flight was headed by Larry Slattery and he
showed no signs of the enforced break as he recorded 33 points, two ahead of
second placed golfer Peter Davies, making a rare visit, but he was sadly
recalled to Australia before the presentation was over for family reasons
and our thoughts all go with him. In third place with 28 points was Tore
Eliassen, playing amongst the higher handicappers for the first time in a
long while.
In the top flight Alan Pilkington recorded 29 points for
third place, one behind Trevor Chappell taking some time out before the
serious business of cricket “sixes” occupied his time. The flight winner was
Finland’s Erik Antonnen and his round was consistent as he produced the
day’s best gross figures of 81 on his way to 36 points.
Alan Pilkington also recorded the day’s only birdie ‘2’,
on the twelfth, whilst the Booby Bevy was shared by the Danish pair of
Jesper Hansen and Gerner Lykke, both recording their traditional low scoring
pipe-openers on their return.
Bangpra had been a joy to play after the annual mayhem of
Songkhran. Only fifty-one more weeks to go, yippee!
Millar’s tale at St
Andrew’s
Friday, 22nd April saw a welcome return to St. Andrew’s
for the Pattaya Golf Society as the Soi Buakhao based group played a
stableford competition on the well-presented course. The only drawback were
the greens which were slower than expected but the recent heavy showers put
paid to any planned maintenance the club may have had in store.
The field was divided into two flights at fifteen and
under and in the top flight Rob Lamond came to the fore, his best gross of
78 giving him 35 points for a share of the lead with Tore Eliassen. In third
place was Larry Bland.
In the second flight Tim Lazecki showed the improvements
he has made since his enforced hip replacement in January with a fighting 33
points for third. In second place was Jim Bell with 36 points and the flight
winner was Evan Millar, making a PGS top spot his own for the first time in
a long while. Good on you Evan, well played!
The only birdie ‘2’ was recorded by Ray Jackson on the
short par three fifth and the Booby Bevy went to Mr. Len for an
uncharacteristic oversight which almost blighted his day and his wallet back
at the PGS “clubhouse” earlier in the day.
Once again John Mason ably marshalled the day and he was
rewarded with his best round in quite a few weeks when his 31 points just
failed to make the limelight. That was undoubtedly the property of Evan
Millar at St Andrew’s.
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A very wet week all round
PSC golf from The Haven
Sunday, April 17, Green
Valley - Stableford
CSS 72
1st Joe Peters (19) 40pts
2nd Joe McArdle (12) 37pts
3rd Russell Gilroy (14) 36pts
4th
Gerry Hannon (9) 32pts
An extremely wet week started before the players even
reached the highway to Green Valley as they had to attempt to bypass the
road blocks caused by the continuation of the water festival in Pattaya,
which started around the 11th of the month and
continued until the 19th.
Russell
Exley.
With many of the areas golfers already having left town
the numbers were once again small but Joe Peters was not to be deterred or
denied his first win for several months as he cruised home in four under
handicap to at last wrench the four-ball money out of Joe McArdle’s
vice-like grip for once. But Joe still managed to finish ahead on the day as
his second place ensured some offset with his other investments.
Russell Gilroy made sure of a podium position in his last
appearance in Pattaya prior to his return Sydney and his local golf club,
where he will no doubt spend hours relating his exploits in the Land of
Smiles and how he slashed his handicap by four strokes and surely demand
that his new found abilities are reflected in his home handicap.
The presentations were conducted and overseen by Russell
Exley, as usual at the Golf Centre Bar on the course, with amiable hosts
John and Geoff assisted by their lovely staff, taking excellent care of the
golfers.
Wednesday, April 20,
Greenwood - Stableford
CSS 71
1st Russell Exley (8) 36pts
2nd Trevor Schirmer (14) 34pts
3rd Rod Crosswell (13) 32pts
4th
Einar Widnes (16) 31pts
The day started with the prospective players having to
pick their way through the car park that was undergoing comprehensive
repairs following a spectacular dive the day before, the culmination of the
Pattaya water event, 7 stories from the next door hotel roof by either a
very frustrated diner or a star crossed lover, which resulted in the
complete destruction of the trelliswork above the car park and serious
damage to one of the cars beneath. Miraculously the would-be base-jumper
survived and was speedily removed as the ambulance had an unobstructed
approach via Beach Road which had mercifully been cleared of traffic for the
day.
Al
Rolnik.
With much discussion as to the unauthorized use of a drop
zone, the hopefuls left for the pleasures of Greenwood where they found the
course almost totally empty and in excellent condition and the price of the
green fee reduced for the low season. This was a pleasant surprise as many
of the courses in the area seem to have followed the advice of the Eastern
Seaboard Association Chairman and either raised or left the green fees the
same as for the high season, no doubt in preparation for an upward hike when
the high season returns.
For the forthcoming low season The Haven group have opted
to support the only the courses that are reducing the green fees for the low
season in an effort to maintain the price level in a very depressed market
both for the long stay ex patriots of the area and prospective tourists that
seem to be few and far between at the moment.
After going through a rather lean period, Russell Exley
at last hit some kind of form with a very hard earned victory on a very
testing long course that gave up very few birdie chances, but level par was
good enough to take the day’s top honours with Trevor Schirmer the closest,
two back in second place.
Rod Crosswell missed several chances to better his score
but still did just enough to take third ahead of Einar Widnes in fourth.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed new member
Timothy Wilson and also welcomed back Markku Tynell together with Einar and
Wira Widnes.
There were no 2’s on the day as the par threes played to
their longest and hardest.
Friday, April 22, Khao
Kheow - Stableford
CSS 75 NC
1st Al Rolnik (22) 32pts
2nd Wira Widnes (10) 31pts
3rd Terry Hodgkiss (24) 29pts
4th
Trevor Schirmer (14) 28pts
Just when everyone thought that the last of the water had
been seen, the elements took a hand with a huge thunderstorm halfway through
most of the player’s rounds. With the management having thoughtfully
installed a lightning warning siren, there was no choice but to cease play
as its first sounds were heard, the caddies having been instructed to stop
immediately, which hopefully will see that past serious accidents in the
area from lightning strikes are at least not repeated on this course in
future.
Wira
Widnes.
Unfortunately, after a stoppage of over and hour and a
half, most of the hopefuls had almost seized up in the cold and dampness
leaving Al Rolnik to clean up with a less than spectacular return of four
over handicap. But perseverance was the key as he stuck to the task and
tried to ignore the very wet conditions that prevailed over the inward half
to win another competition following his long layoff.
Wira Widnes struggled all day to contend with the length
of the course but kept at it to take second place just a shot behind and
ruing the period either side of the storm when she dropped points on both of
the holes.
Terry Hodgkiss at last got the better of regular playing
partner Rod Naga and also laid claim to third place along the way as Trevor
Schirmer finished out the podium another shot back.
After all the cards were in it was no surprise to find
that the CSS for that day had moved out three strokes and the competition
had become non-counting for upward review of handicaps.
Back at The Haven Brain Talbot and Tony Barritt were
welcomed back prior to the presentation of the prizes.
Note: As from the 1st of May the Haven group will
depart Soi 13 at the earlier time of 8.30 a.m. until further notice. 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.
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Pattaya Sports Club
Bowling League
200 Bowlers: Somrak, Rich & Ooy.
Brother D moved up from third to second place after
winning all four points from VFW Post 9876. All three Brother D bowlers
broke the 500 mark with Ralph bowling a 523, La Montgomery a 515 and Somrit
had a 500 series. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 211 game and 546 series for VFW
who dropped down to last place.
Caf้ Kronborg also had a good day with all three of their
bowlers bowling over 500. Somrak bowled a 210 game, 543 series, Rich Murphy
had a 213 game, 518 series and Kran Nielsen bowled a 516 for Kronborg. Snow
Bowler had a bad day but they are still in first place by one half a point.
Bavaria taking advantage of their big handicap took three
points from Canada. Tue Pettae was best for Canada with a 518 series but her
team dropped from second place to third.
Joe Ferral, back after missing several weeks with physical problems,
inspired his team to a three point win over Green Tree. Sue Murphy led USMC
with a 515 series.
Song-Kerr-an tour to Khao Yai
The Golf Club Sports Bar & Grill
The beautiful Rancho Charnvee golf course.
Thursday, April 14, Bonanza - Stableford
1st Jason Kerr (8) 43pts
2nd Ty Kerr (10) 40pts
3rd John Emmerson (12) 40pts
The annual “get outa Dodge” Songkran trip kicked off
early Thursday as we loaded up and travelled to Pak Chong on the outskirts
of the beautiful Khao Yai National Park.
Day 1 of the 4 day comp was contested at Bonanza. If not
for the 30 minute down pour, it would have been a perfect day. The “Kids”
had fun with this layout, smashing drives and hitting pins at random. 16-yr
old Jason Kerr was the day’s clear winner while younger brother Ty finished
second and the ageless John Emmerson third.
‘Seamless’ took the near pin plus a deuce sharing the pot
with Jason. The course was in great shape and drained well. We were all well
drained by day’s end and headed to the Rim Tarn Inn for celebrations and
commiserations.
Friday, April 15, Panorama - Stableford
1st Jason Kerr (8) 36pts
2nd John Emmerson (12) 34pts
3rd Ty Kerr (9) 34pts
Second verse was just the same as the first. We moved
Jason back one tee box and he still proved his moxy. It took a back 9
count-back for John Emmerson to take second and Ty Kerr third.
Panorama greens proved a little trickier and the scores
bore witness. ‘Seamless’ proved most accurate on the near pin again and the
kids had a deuce each.
Conditions were drier than day one but for a small
shower. We watched the slower group in front of us take forever on the
greens; one gent was using the long putter and struggling. This led to the
quote of the day, “long putters and padded bras should be banned.” Nice one
Kev!
Saturday, April 18, Toscana Valley Resort - Stableford
1st Jason Kerr (8) 39pts
2nd John Bahng (15) 39pts
3rd Muffy Kerr (11) 37pts
Day 3 saw a new member of the Kerr clan getting in the
frame. Jason was once again on top and ‘Long John’ Bahng had a tremendous 25
points on the outward 9 but faded coming back in with 14 points to Jason’s
19. Daddy Kerr showed some great form with a fine 37 points for third.
Kev “Long putters and padded bras” Moraghan had the near
pin with Jason and ‘Long John’ having a deuce each.
The Toscana Valley Resort is a spectacular venue: 5 tee
boxes per elevated tees, fairways and an island green #8. Whichever
direction you looked there was a picture postcard view. Once again mother
nature performed her own Songkran on us and we had one long delay and a race
to finish the 18th before the torrential rain dampened the day, but not the
experience of a lifetime.
It must be noted that we had 3 groups on the course and
had it entirely to ourselves. Millionaire golf.
Sunday, April 19, Rancho Charnvee – Stableford
1st Muffy Kerr (11) 41pts
2nd John Emmerson (12) 37pts
3rd Doug Watkins (27) 35pts
It sounds like a broken record, but another fine round
put a Kerr on top yet again, Muffy Kerr this time, using some local course
knowledge to fashion a masterful 41 points. Muff had been here before and it
was by his suggestion we added it to the comp. Another hidden gem here
folks. Put it on your to do list.
John Emmerson left a few putts on the lip and still had
37 points for second while Doug Watkins showed a vast improvement over the 4
days and made it in the frame with a comfortable 35 points and third.
Kaptain Klipboard got the near pin and the only 2 today!
We also had a 4 day overall comp and Jason Kerr was first
of course. ‘Mr. Consistent’ John Emmerson took second while Muffy Kerr, on
the strength of the last 2 results, played his way into third and Bryan
Carrol quietly played his way to fourth overall with a birdie on the 18th.
Thanks to all that joined us for this year’s ‘Get Outa
Dodge Tour’. A special thanks to Steve Ellison for his tireless efforts to
organize yet another memorable excursion.
Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro, off Soi Buakhao and
Soi Diana junction. We can be reached on 085 434 3377 or pat
[email protected] and our new website is www.golfclubpattaya.com.
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