Jameson’s football trophy up for grabs
The B.C.C.T Casual Football Club have recently been
granted their request for a rematch for the coveted Jameson’s Football
Trophy.
Make
you way to Horseshoe point next Saturday, 23 August for the Jameson’s
football trophy challenge.
The game will take place at Horseshoe Point on Saturday 23 August with
kick off at 4.00 p.m. Any body who feels like they would like a game
please contact Brian Abbott at Nova Table in Jameson’s The Irish Pub, or
phone Brian or Kim on 038 361874.
Spectators are more than welcome at Horseshoe Point, where Happy Hour
beer will be provided and sumptuous snacks. After the game the
presentation of the trophy will be made at Jameson’s in time to watch
all of the live action Premiership games, with more Happy Hour drinks
and free bar snacks.
German martial artist
shatters record
The parking lot right outside the Pattaya Mail offices was the scene of a
new world record recently, set by a man who does not appear to feel pain and
with who it would probably be unwise to pick a fight.
Andreas
Ahrendt sets a new world brick-breaking record outside the Pattaya Mail
offices.
In order to break as many building bricks as possible within 60 seconds with
bare feet, one needs power and speed. A reduced sensation of pain also
helps. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the record stood at 33
bricks. But that was going to change on Wednesday, July 30, as Henry Andreas
Ahrendt, 44, from Germany was in sensational shape.
Two brick rows of about 20 yards in length, slightly curved, were laid out
with two bricks on top of each other. After a brief preparation period,
Ahrendt raised thumbs to signal his readiness to break the record.
What the gathered media witnessed was an impressive demonstration of
Ahrendt’s willpower and stamina. He broke all the double-layered bricks with
a single blow.
After checking the footage, Pattaya Mail announced a new world record.
Ahrendt had broken an unbelievable 112 bricks, literally pulverizing the old
record. But how can someone endure such a thing, all spectators asked
themselves.
“Stern discipline,” Ahrendt said. The experienced martial artist has been
practicing regularly, sacrificing a lot of his free time to achieve this.
“Up at 6, to bed at 9, and in between practice, practice, practice!”
The
sturdy bricks proved to be no match for strongman Andreas.
During his attempt, he was on another level, mentally speaking. How else
could one bear such pain? Despite the fact that Ahrendt’s fingers, hands (he
is ambidextrous) and feet had become toughened by all the years of practice,
the pain after the successful attempt could be seen in his facial
expression. “It’s not that these things were made of cardboard!” However, a
person who can bring body, mind and soul into unison overcomes any kind of
pain.
Over the previous three months, Ahrendt had prepared himself in Pattaya.
Another reason why Ahrendt chose Pattaya for his attempt was the relatively
constant temperatures all year long. This is essential for some other things
he does, like breaking chopsticks with his throat. As a bonus, he did just
that: while kneeling, he held the tip of a chopstick to his throat and
applied so much pressure to it that it would finally break. It’s not
necessarily recommended to try that at home.
Ahrendt will now send the footage to England for Guinness to thoroughly
check it and confirm the new world record.
By no means shall this stay his only record, for Ahrendt plans to create a
furor in Paris and London fairly soon. And, who knows, when he returns to
Pattaya in the high season, he might have set a few more world records by
then. Break a leg, Henry!
Kevin Mitch is Jackalope
Open champ – half a million raised for charity
The Canadian Jackalope Open 2008
Wayne Ogonoski
Friday, 8 August - Burapha Golf Club
The day began with cloudy skies and the organizing committee was
out on the course early to make sure all was in order. During the morning
the participating golfers arrived at Burapha Golf Club for registration and
the proceeded to down the traditional Caesar, a Canadian breakfast
speciality and then take in a long drive demonstration by Jean Daniels using
some very unusual clubs and techniques.
Kevin
Mitch, the 2008 Jackalope Open champion poses with his trophy.
By 11:30 everyone headed out to the golf course ready for the shotgun start
and much anticipation hung in the air as individuals prepared their minds
towards a good round - of course some of the golfers were thinking when they
would see the beer cart first.
At 12 Noon the shotgun was fired and the golfers were off, a true test of
golf on the narrow fairways. The field moved around the course with not too
many hold ups encountered and after just five hours the first groups arrived
back at the club house.
The golfers were treated to a splendid buffet provided by the staff of
Burapha while they waited for the scores to be tabulated and the winners
announced.
Prize giving began with Dave Pittman returning as Emcee, he did a sterling
job and the technical awards were presented with the long drives going to
Khun Suchart in Division 1, Eddy Beilby in Division 2, Matt Millar in
Division 3, John Kennedy in the Rabbits Division and Puttida Thongpen in the
Ladies Division.
Ladies
champion Puttida Thongpen (left) receives her prize from Mark Gorda.
Nearest the pin awards were won by Uwe Wegner, Alan Russell, Jason Kerr,
Malcolm Roe, Tanason Witomgontien, Jonathan Berry, Mike Seely, Rich Wibrow,
Kamol Thongkiao, Bill Hewitt, Stefan Hoge, Bill Marsden, John Kennedy,
Puttida Thongpen, Richard Steadman, Paul Moore, Bobby Taylor, and Chant
Schulera. The nearest the keg was won by Anaree Sayachai
The Ladies Division runner up was Sukanya Buraprat with 33 points beating
out La Keith, Ananree Sayachai and Nong Dumas in a count back. First place
in the Ladies Division was claimed by Puttida Thongpen with 36 points.
Division
2 winner Paul Moore (right).
In the Rabbits Division Rob Mitchell beat out youngster Ty Kerr in a count
back with 34 points for the runner up spot and winning the Rabbits Division
was Malcolm Roe with 35 points.
Division 3 third place was won by Alan Pearce with 37 points, losing out in
a count back to second place winner Carl Lovatt, also with 37 points and
first place was won by 13 year old Jason Kerr with an amazing 40 points.
Division 2 third place went to Eddy Beilby, beating out Roy Thornton in a
count back with 36 points, second place went to Ed Townsley with 39 points
and in first place was Paul Moore with 40 points.
Division 1 third place went to Rick Montana beating out Uwe Wegner in a
count back with 35 points, in second place was Barry Winton, losing out in a
count back to winner Doug Lynch, both with 38 points.
Division
1 winner Doug Lynch (right) with Mark Gorda.
Doug Lynch also shot the lowest gross score of the day with 73, an extremely
good round of golf.
The Jackalope Champion for 2008 was Kevin Mitch amassing 41 points on the
day.
Following the awards ceremony lucky draw prizes donated by Bob Van Mol, Mark
Gorda, Rob Kennedy, the Kerr family, Jameson’s The Irish Pub, Canukville and
The Diamond Shop were given out before the much-anticipated 50-50 draw was
made. Geoff Lever Jr. playing in his first ever Jackalope Open had the
pleasure of winning 95,000 baht: Geoff very generously donated back B45,000
to the charity fund. Thank you Geoff.
The
Division 3 winner was 13-year old Jason Kerr (right) with an amazing 40
points.
In his never ending quest to generate funds for the organizations that
benefit from the tournament, Mark Gorda had pledged to donate 1,000 baht for
every birdie and 5,000 baht for every eagle scored on the day. There were 31
birdies and 1 eagle scored adding an additional B36,000 to the fund.
Thanks go to all the staff at Burapha Golf Club for the excellent service
provided on the day, especially the resident Pro - Egon Neilsen for all his
help.
We would also like to thank the following businesses and individuals who
helped raise an outstanding amount of 500,000 baht for the 2008 charity fund
- Baltex Industries, Bob Van Mol, Bobby Taylor & family, Dale & Ann Drader,
Derek Reaper, Foxy Bar, Geoff Lever Jr., Hoser & family, Jack Levy,
Jameson’s The Irish Pub, John Wright, Keith Sandstrom, Ken Cooke, KPK Food
Services, Mark Campbell, Matt Millar & family, Mike Peters, Moe Deverdenne,
Murray Kerr & family, Neil Sandilands, Nick Demetrof, Pattaya Sports Club,
Paul Ovens, Petro Canada-Syria, PPS-Middle East, Ray Lepard, Rich Wibrow,
Rob Kennedy, Stephan Hoge, Stream Flo, Tahitian Queen, Thai-Ger Line Golf,
The Beaver Bar, The Blue Parrot, The Diamond Shop, The Jesters MC, The Palm
Tree Restaurant & Bar, Vance Millar, Wayne Ogonoski
The Jackalope is not just about golf, it is also about giving back to the
local community. On this 10th anniversary of The Canadian Jackalope Open we
will now be joining with the Jesters ‘Care For Kids’ to help provide much
needed assistance to the poor or disadvantaged children in the area.
The golfers had a great day
competing in the 10th Canadian Jackalope Open.
Assandant team wins Lions charity bowling tournament
The Assandant A team were the
proud recipients of the Honorary Royal Trophy of HRH Princess Somsawalee.
Vimolrat Signnikorn
The Lions Club of Naklua recently cooperated with the Blue-o Rhythm & Bowl
to hold a charity bowling competition on July 27 for the Honorary Royal
Trophy of HRH Princess Somsawalee. This competition was held to raise funds
for the royal project ‘Encyclopedias for Youngsters’ to help children in the
Pattaya City area.
Pattaya City Mayor Itthipol Khunplume officially opened the competition and
was accompanied by Pattaya City officials Charnyuth Heng Trakul and Rewatra
Phollukin.
The competition was divided into several categories including team and
highest individual points awards. Assandant A team lived up to their name by
taking the team award and the Honorary Royal Trophy of HRH Princess
Somsawalee with a total score of 1,488 points. Following close behind in
second place was the Assandant B team with 1,462 points, and third place
went to the Sri Sawas team with a score of 1,459 points.
In the minor awards the PP team had the highest total score for a male team,
and the Rassamee Praneechart team had the highest score for a female team.
Lt. Sarawoot Sukhoom recorded the highest individual total at win the male
award and Chiraporn Sae Han did likewise in the female category.
The bowling competition was
organized to help raise funds
for the ‘Encyclopedias for Youngsters’ project.
Three Sisters again defies Mother Nature
PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar
Dark clouds loomed on the Eastern front with a promise of
rain. Unbeknown to Mother Nature however, this was the Three Sisters Golf
day at the Pattaya Country Club, ergo no rain is permitted.
Tuesday
winner Dale Murphy (left) with second placed Herbie Ishinaga.
Having said that the groups took off in good form. Bill Key didn’t have to
play catch up this week but the leaders of last week, prideful as they were,
dropped nearly to the bottom this time around. Mother Nature did drop in
with a brief shower around 9:45am just to tell the TSG group not to be so
cocky.
Dale Murphy burned up the course as his Aussie friends kept the score, Dale
coming in with 45 points. His regular group had to fork over some “coins of
the realm” as Bernard Trick was wont to say.
Herbie Ishinaga came in second with 36 points, but obviously no one could
match Dale’s score. Bob Benda, Sus Ige, and Paul Kraft came in with
respectable scores and everyone acknowledged Dale’s performance.
The group retired to Caddy Shack II where Herbie again provided some spicy
beef and pork sausages to be washed down with the Philippines finest
beverage.
German-Swiss Golf Club celebrates 5th anniversary
Roland Weckesser (with
trophy) and Jo Schreiner,
both Group B players, have reasons to celebrate.
Peter Nordhues
Members and friends of the German-Swiss Golf Club (GSGC) met on
August 1 at the Thai Garden Resort to celebrate the fifth year of the
club’s existence at the resort’s Moon River Pub. It was a cheerful party
at which the attendees also celebrated the Swiss national day.
Prior to the festivities, an anniversary matchplay golf tournament took
place at the Burapha Golf & Country Club. The 42 players were divided
into Group A, with a handicap range of 0 to 17, and Group B, with a
handicap range of 18 to 36. The teams made sure that only players with
equivalent golfing skills would compete against each other.
It was Group B that grabbed a 12:9 victory over their opponents. Due to
the weaker handicap, all Group B players were given one extra swing,
making it quite tough for the others to compensate. However, it was more
about having fun than serious full on competition. Some members of the
Sattaya Golf Association, well-disposed towards the GSGC, also
participated.
The day was completed with the jubilee party and the handing over of the
trophy, taking place at the MRP. Starched by the luxuriant buffet, GSGC
President Turi Nagel held a brief speech, appreciating this special day
and recalling the early days of the club’s history.
The fist GSGC golf tournament had also taken place at the Burapha course
with an after-party at the MRP. The Club was established after many
players felt the need to chat with fellow golfers in their native
tongue. Any German speaking and golf playing people are welcome to join.
As of today, the members come from Germany, Switzerland, Austria and
Belgium.
The crowd was all cheers, as both teams received their trophies.
Subsequently, everybody had the chance to jargonize, raise the glasses
to the occasion of the fifth anniversary and remember some special
events and games of the past. A great supporting program added to an
entertaining night. People extensively indulged in dancing and singing
to the live beats of the Power Jam Band.
A raffle was organized, accumulating some 35,000 baht in revenue. How
the money will be used has yet to be decided upon. However, it will be
for the benefit of people in need.
Over the years, the German-Swiss Golf Club has obtained a great
reputation, reaching above and beyond the city limits of Pattaya.
Matchplay as it should be?
PSC Phoenix Tuesday Group (members & guests) from Toy’s Music Bar
Mike Gerrard
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix – Four-Ball Better Ball
The dreaded matchplay league once again divided friends who
normally play together in their weekly social groups.
However, with the few that were left we played our very own matchplay
four-ball better ball. So much more sociable than the concept of two singles
matches being played within a four-ball and the attitude of “I have to beat
another guy for the team,” (and) “Oh by the way, who were them other two
guys we played with?”
One good thing about the day was that it left the course relatively quiet
and to ourselves. The Mountain and Lakes course have now settled into their
normal immaculate, but very difficult condition, and with the weather set
very humid it appeared that scoring may be difficult.
We played a stroke play round and would you believe it the scoring was
pretty good. Well it was by the first two places. Stuart Gordon recorded a
net 68 playing off 14 and the scribe shot a net 69 playing off 12.
Under the new handicapping system introduced this month it means that Stuart
is cut 1.2 shots to 13 (12.9) and my own handicap is cut 0.6, but remains at
12 (11.7).
I only hope that when the league season ends, this concept of matchplay golf
does not destroy some of the social groups that have developed over the
years. It appears that in some cases it already has! Never mind, we will
plod on and anyone who wishes to play serious, friendly, but fun golf
contact me (Mike Gerrard) on 087 091 7565.
Cooney’s day at Plutaluang
PSC golf from The Bunker
Monday, 4 August, Emerald – Medal
1st Alan Sullivan (14) net 69
2nd John McDonald (6) net 70
3rd Ken Chung (12) net 74
It was close between the leaders today at the Emerald but Alan Sullivan
just pipped John McDonald by one shot to win with a fine three-under par
net 69, and Ken Chung got in the frame for the first time to take third
place.
Ken and Alan won a near pin prize too along with Gerry Cooney and Mick
Benton.
Wednesday, 6 August, Plutaluang - Stableford
1st Gerry Cooney (11) 37pts
2nd Peter Habgood (16) 35pts
3rd William Macey (11) 35pts
Playing the South and East courses at the Thai Royal Navy Course, Gerry
Cooney had a great day winning the stableford competition with 37 points
and winning two near pin prizes as well.
Second place in the competition went to Peter Habgood who beat William
Macey on a count back, both finishing with 35 points.
The other two near pin prizes were taken by Peter Habgood and John
Hughes.
Friday, 8 August, Greenwood - Medal
1st Mick Benton (19) net 69
2nd Alan Sullivan (13) net 71
3rd Ken Chung (12) net 71
With the long drive to Greenwood getting easier all the time due to the
road works being almost completed, it is a pleasure to play there these
days, and it certainly was for Mick Benton who won the Medal competition
with a three-under par round. Mick beat Alan Sullivan and Ken Chung who
both had a sub par rounds, Alan taking second place on a count back.
Only three near pin prizes were claimed today, two of them by John
McDonald and the other one went to Geoff Cox.
Hamstead takes it by one at testing Laem Chabang
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Thomas Cotton
Tuesday, 5 August, Laem Chabang - Stableford
1st Steve Hamstad 33pts
2nd Walter Baechli 32pts
3rd Anders Pedersen 32pts)
Near Pins: Perry McNeely, Mick Omeara (2), Steve Hampstad
Long Putts: Anders Pedersen & Dick Warberg
Fourteen enthusiastic golfers met Tuesday morning to test their mettle against
the challenging Laem Chabang golf course. The weather was fine, except for a
strong breeze which maliciously blew against us all day long. This was reflected
in the low scores with not one player reaching within 3 strokes of his listed
handicap.
However the wind seemed to briefly aid reigning “Golfer of the Year” Perry
McNeely, who on the Par 3 A5 hit the pin with his tee-shot, with the ball coming
to rest a mere six inches past the hole. He, alas, was not on the leader board
for the day but this was undoubtedly the “shot of the day” (for which there is
no prize).
Orathai gets her first Birdie
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday, 4 August, Bangpra – 2-Person
Scramble
1st Barry Winton & Orathai Winton 53
2nd Trevor Schirmer & B.J. Smith 47
3rd Tony Thorne & Ken Deringer 45
4th Tony Barritt & Barry Traynor 44 cb 23
5th Fred Land & Del Bailey 44 cb 22
An outstanding round of golf by the IPGC Club Champion Barry Winton was
ably assisted by Orathai, his wife, which resulted in an almost
unbeatable score of 17-under. Orathai was carefree of the need to use at
least seven of her drives as she easily knocked those off in the first
nine and added a couple more on the inward half, and with Barry knocking
them onto the greens to within 10 feet almost every time, and a handicap
of 14, it was always going to be too much for the rest of the field.
The regular winners, prior to the recent rise of Russell Exley and La
Keith who had won three out of the last four, Trevor Schirmer and B.J.
Smith had a very nice round with especially B.J. regularly chipping
close to secure 3 or 4 points, but had to be satisfied with second spot
in the face of the Barry and Orathai onslaught.
Tony Thorne and Ken Deringer, tipped as pre-start dark horses, proved
unable to match the old hands and finished third ahead of Tony Barritt
and Barry Traynor, the latter being unable to sink all the putts, and
Fred Land and Del Bailey. Russell Exley deprived of his usual partner
teamed up with Bubbles Davies who neither looked as good nor played as
well as the team member he was replacing and they finished well down the
field.
There were no 2’s due to the day’s format.
Wednesday, 6 August, Emerald – Stableford
1st Russell Exley 39pts
2nd Al Keith 39pts
3rd Barry Traynor 38pts
4th Jens Gunnarsson 38pts
5th La Keith 37pts
6th Barry Winton 37pts
Russell Exley consolidated his single figure handicap as he cruised
round the well prepared and top conditioned Emerald in under 80 to pip
one of his mentors, Al Keith by virtue of an excellent back nine
following a solid start.
Al was not quite able to match his very good front half and, by his
standards, faded to an even par inward half and second place.
Barry Traynor was once again in good form as he took third spot ahead of
Jens Gunnarsson on count back with Jens threatening a return to the form
that saw his handicap drop dramatically during his last stay in Pattaya.
La Keith just got the better of Barry Winton to secure the last spot on
the podium.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back Phillip Cass.
The first division’s 2’s were shared between Tony Thorne, Barry Winton,
Trevor Schirmer, Al Keith and La Keith with two. The second division
‘super pot’ was eventually won by Chris Knapp and Orathai Winton: It was
especially pleasing for Orathai, for whom it was the very first birdie
of her playing career, and a very nice week so far.
Haven Knockout Matchplay
The day was also the start of the Haven August Matchplay
which saw an all new line up of matches except for one. That featured
Stephen Beard and Tony Thorne and where last month Tony had been the
winner in the first round by count back, this month’s meeting was
equally competitive with a very tight match all the way to the 17th
where unfortunately Tony went into the hazard twice and Stephen quietly
closed the door.
Russell Exley had a very tight match with Trevor Schirmer before being
able to close Trevor out on the 16th with a birdie. Al Keith had a
fairly easy time on the front nine as Glyn Nicholas slumped to a horrid
nine-over handicap and by the time Glyn had started to get the ship back
on track it was far too late. But he did finish the back nine at
seven-under his handicap and just wished it could have been a back to
front day.
Tony Barritt gave Chris Knapp a real taste of matchplay after Chris’s
last first round win of 10 & 8, he was up against a seasoned campaigner
in Tony but went down fighting 4 & 3.
All the other matches were very close indeed, finishing 1 up in each of
them: B.J. Smith just getting the better of Derek Holt on the last and
Jens Gunnarsson ahead of Brian Kelly with some huge drives and taking
the last hole to win.
Barry Traynor was unlucky to find La Keith still in fine form after
winning the previous month’s competition and even beating her on points,
lost out in the end to two fine birdies on par threes.
Peter Aitcheson, who was desperately trying to put last months result
out of mind had a tough battle with Rod Howett that went either way all
the match with the lead constantly changing, until the last hole were he
slipped in a solid par for the win.
Results: Russell Exley won 3 & 2 v Trevor Schirmer; B.J. Smith won 1 up
v Derek Holt; Al Keith won 6 & 4v Glyn Nicholas; Stephen Beard won 3 & 1
v Tony Thorne; Tony Barritt won 4 & 3 v Chris Knapp; La Keith won 1 up v
Barry Traynor; Jens Gunnarsson won 1 up v Brian Kelly; Peter Aitcheson
won 1 up v Rod Howett.
Friday, 8 August, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Fred Land 41pts
2nd Stephen Beard 37pts
3rd Rod Howett 37pts
4th Barry Traynor 37pts
5th Graham Davis 36pts
Following overnight and early morning rain it was carts only on cart
paths at the start and the competition was ruled as ‘lift and place’ on
the fairways and to be played from the white tees. In the event the
management had foreseen the degree of difficulty the rains had brought
and had moved the yellow tees to the whites.
The course is still set up as in preparation for a major tour event with
the fairways as narrow as 20 yards and no first cut of rough leading to
many a disgruntled golfer who was unable to accept the conditions. Those
that did realise the way to play the course, played out of the rough
with at the most an eight iron and relied on the approach shot and a
good short game to score, and once again showed that golf is not just a
power game but needs thought and application to be successful.
Having said that, Fred Land took advantage of his length and power to
record a good win ahead of the wily old heads of Stephen Beard, Rod
Howett and Barry Traynor, all of whom had to separated by count back.
Graham Davis scored a very creditably even par to round off the podium.
Prior to the presentations Lyle Blaw was welcomed back.
Not unusually there were no 2’s in the second division but Barry Traynor
and Lyle Blaw shared the first division pool
Jones on song at Emerald
PSC golf from P J Pool Bar
Neil Duncan
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix Mountain & Lakes (White
Tees) - Stableford
The group arrived early and with the course clear the starter put
us straight off on this very lovely golf course. Steve Lunt (11) won the day
with 34 points followed by Peter Mills (23) and Bob Drumm (11) with 31 and
28 points respectively.
Willy Nachbur, Peter Mills and Neil Duncan had near pin bonuses whilst Bob
Drumm sunk the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Thursday, 7 August, The Emerald (White Tees) - Stableford
We turned up to find that the Gobi Desert had moved south to Ban
Chang. The Emerald’s greens were covered in sand and there was no water in
the showers! Ergo it was a somewhat dirty dozen of us that left the
clubhouse following distribution of the bi-weekly dividend.
(Left
to right) Jim Fortune, Jeff Wylie, Bill Jones and Bob Drumm.
Bill Jones (32) demonstrated that he harbors no outward medical problems
resulting from his total emersion in a water hazard at Navy not so long ago
by returning a magnificent 43 points. Carding an enviable low gross score
Jeff Wylie (6) was runner up with 38 points. Bob Drumm (11), still playing
consistently well, had a very solid back nine to come in third with 37
points. Completing the podium was Jim Fortune (25) - yes he with the 90
kilometers per hour golf buggy - with 35 points.
The average score from the 10 qualifying cards was 33.6 points.
Near pin prizes went to Jeff Wylie, Neil Duncan and Bob Drumm (2) with Peter
Mills yet again sinking the longest first putt on the 18th green.
Newcomer James Scofidi claimed the Paradise Bar golf shirt for playing the
most golf this day.
Note: Any golfers seeking to play with our group that wish to know
about the format please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi
Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.
MBMG Matchplay League 2008
Outback Golf Bar 6 ½ v Tony’s Tigers 3 ½
Monday, August 4, Burapha
There’s nothing wrong with some good-hearted banter and needle at the start
of a match but when it spills over to spoil the game, something needs to be
said.
This is the first year of the league and to date it has been a resounding
success with most players enjoying the mix with the various venues and
entering into the sporting spirit of golf. The subject of handicaps always
rules in Pattaya and a great deal of work has been done by a group of guys
to improve the validity of handicaps here with a view to everybody being
able to play under one system - one day! It’s probably as close as it’s ever
been and although the banding system in the MBMG league is far from perfect,
it did enable the league to exist and has contributed a considerable amount
to bringing all the venues closer together.
The behaviour of a certain individual at the start of the match between the
Outback Golf Bar and Tony’s Tigers was unacceptable, is bringing the game
into disrepute and could be likened hooliganism.
It takes a great deal of time and effort to put this league and all the
individual matches together and requires the cooperation and help from
fellow players, not darn right hindrance! Furthermore, to pull your opponent
for playing out of turn and call on him to play again is not what the game
of golf at amateur level is about. The rules are clear, however many golfers
play ready golf in Pattaya and are not used to matchplay; it’s an easy
mistake to make and grossly unfair to stand back and let it happen!
Now, that issue has been dealt with; it is always a pleasure to welcome Tony
and his team to the Outback Golf Bar and today was no exception. Tony has
been a great supporter of the league since it’s inception and his team have
produced a series of great results to haul them firmly into second place in
the league.
Tony fielded a strong team, his highest handicapper being Brian Jacks off
12, and had the Outback in all kinds a problems with many of their regular
lower handicap players being unavailable. Indeed, the biggest anomaly of the
banding system came to light when a 19 (or a 20 handicapper) was to receive
only three shots!
A win today would have put the Tigers just one point behind the leaders,
Caddyshack; but against all the odds, with three first time matchplay
players, the Outback Golf Bar denied them that chance with a 6½ to 3½ win.
Individual Results: Briany Christie halved with Thomas Kjellgren; Bernie
Segrave won 2 & 1 v Lo Holgersson; Pat Regan won 2 & 1 v Nigel Irvive; Bruce
Milner won 5 & 4 v Terry O’Connor; Sugar Ray Hanford won 4 & 2 v Neil
McAllister; Don Frances lost 1 down v Dave Richards; Campbell Potts lost 3 &
2 v Brian Jacks; Rosco Langoulant lost 3 & 2 v Chris Holmes; Harvey Samuel
won 2 & 1 v Geoff Bowers; Jack Moseley won 2 & 1 v Ron Bridge
Spinley runs amok at Burapha
PSC golf from the Outback Golf Bar
Joey’s column
Monday, 4 August, Burapha - Stableford
After a month’s absence, it was a welcome return to the blue tees
on American Links & British Wood at the Burapha Golf & Country Club. An
incredible total of 72 players came today, 52 played in the regular
Outbacker tournament in three divisions and another 20 were involved in the
MBMG Matchplay between the Outback Golf Bar & Tony’s Tigers.
Joe Spinley, the overall winner, took the course apart with a fabulous 45
points, some nine shots better than the card. Considering that this course
is rated at 73.2 (from the blue tees) and his course handicap (after
allowing for the slope of 131) is 26; that is an amazing 14 shots better
than the adjusted par & his course handicap. Perhaps the new PSC handicap
committee should adjust their thinking; under the current procedure he was
cut 2.9 shots to 19.1, maybe he should have been cut by 4.8.
The runner up was Eddie Smith with an outstanding 42 points, which also
earned him a new handicap, down to 10.8. Well played you guys!
Div A was won by Gordon Stuart, playing for the first time with the Outback
Golf Bar, with 38 points. It was close for second, third and fourth with
three players, Ken Little, Rick Evans & Paul Greenaway all on 37 points; and
that is the order in which they finished after the count back.
Kevin Moraghan is still playing well off 16 and took Div B with 36 and Paul
Mades also got cut and now has a new handicap of 18.4 after a very good 39
points to win Div C.
There were four ‘2’s today coming from Ken Little, Barry Chadbourn, Tony
Duthie & Mod Churaiska
Overall
1st Joe Spinley (22) 45pts
2nd Eddie Smith (12) 42pts
Div A (0-14)
1st Stuart Gordon (14) 38pts
2nd Ken Little (11) 37pts
3rd Rick Evans (5) 37pts
4th Paul Greenaway (12) 37pts
Div B (15-19)
1st Kevin Moraghan (16) 36pts
2nd Murray Hart (17) 35pts
3rd William Mooney (18) 33pts
4th Eddie Townsend (17) 33pts
Div C (20 +)
1st Paul Mades (20) 39pts
2nd Tony Duthie (21) 36pts
3rd Peter Gibson (28) 35pts
4th Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts
Tuesday, 5 August, Phoenix - Stableford
Another great day round this course playing Lake and Ocean with a
lovely temperature and a pleasant breeze.
Ray Dell took the honours with 35 points, snatching victory after Barry
missed his putt on the 17th hole. Geoff Moodie came a somewhat distant
third.
There was no early bird Phoenix last Tuesday, 12 Aug, since it was the
Queens Birthday but it’s back to normal on 19 Aug with an 8am tee time.
No ‘2’s this week, so next week a rollover.
1st Ray Dell (12) 35pts
2nd Barry Chadbourn (20) 34pts
3rd Geoff Moodie (26) 26pts
Wednesday, 6 August, Crystal Bay - Stableford
It was the eighth Outbacker Birthday Cup today in celebration of
Barry Chadbourn’s fiftieth & some months birthday. In addition to the
overall winner & food, Barry also sponsored four near pins which were won by
Dave Spendley, Rosco, Ross Towers & Vincent Smyth.
The overall winner was John Little, son of Ken, who came in with a great
score of 42 points edging Suzi Lawton into second place on 39. Pat Regan was
there again with another solid 38 to take Div A.
It was an Australian whitewash of Div B with Rosco, Murray Hart & Pottsy
taking the top three spots and Geoff Doody, the comfortable Div C winner,
continued to prove that the series of lessons he is currently undergoing,
are now beginning to pay off.
There were five ‘2’s coming from Alan Bishop, Ian Covill, Rosco, Ken Little
& Ross Towers.
Thanks for the day Barry & Happy Birthday mate!
Overall
1st John Little (12) 42pts
2nd Suzi Lawton (20) 39pts
Div A (0-13)
1st Pat Regan (9) 38pts
2nd Ian Covill (13) 35pts
3rd Bernie Segrave (7) 34pts
Div B (14-19)
1st Rosco Langoulant (15) 38pts
2nd Murray Hart (17) 37pts
3rd Cambell Potts (19) 33pts
Div C (20+)
1st Geoff Doody (20) 36pts
2nd Donna Smith (36) 32pts
3rd Dave Spendley (20) 31pts
Friday, 8 August, Siam Plantation - Stableford
John Emmerson demonstrated how to play this course today, with a
very fine 35 points off a 7 handicap. It may well be his enthusiasm for this
classy course that puts him in the right frame of mind to play it. A player
cannot allow his or her concentration to waiver here, if you get the ball on
the wrong side of the green you can walk away with at least a bogey.
Eyad Al Sabai played well for his first time with the Outback Golf Bar,
scoring 34, and the ever-consistent Pat Regan ground out another 33 points,
which is just about handicap for mere amateurs round here.
Donna Smith followed up her place at Crystal Bay with the top Div B spot on
33 points, and there was a three way count back for the minor places between
Ivan Plunkett, Sid Ottaway & John Edwards, all with 30 points.
There were only two ‘2’s today from John Emmerson & Rosco Langoulant
Div A (0-11)
1st John Emmerson (7) 35pts
2nd Eyad Al Sabai (11) 34
3rd Pat Regan (9) 33pts
4th Steve Nowell (9) 30pts
Div B (12+)
1st Donna Smith (36) 33pts
2nd Ivan Plunkett (22) 30pts
3rd Sid Ottaway (24) 30pts
4th John Edwards (15) 30pts
Friday, 8 August, The Emerald - Stableford
The third visit to this jewel of a course in two weeks provided
just eleven Outbackers with a very pleasurable round of golf. It was also a
resumption of the Doody/Chadbourn road show, with Kathy firing a handicap
cutting 42 points for the top place (welcome to h’cap 18 Kathy), ‘new swing’
Geoffrey beating OAP Barry on count back, both with 33, and Peter Gibson
continued his recent good form with fourth place today.
There was one ‘2’ from none other than Kathy Doody.
1st Kathy Doody (20) 42pts
2nd Geoff Doody (20) 33pts
3rd Barry Chadbourn (22) 33pts
4th Peter Gibson (28) 31pts
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road
along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a
hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on
087 941 2474. Our Bus Trip this month is to Royal Lakeside on Weds 27 Aug.
More information can be found on our website www.outbackgolfbar.com
The Square Ring:
by Howie Reed
Whoa Nelly, what an opening
Every four years people throughout the world make the vow that, “No,
I’ll probably watch very little of the Olympics.” Then they watch the
opening and are hooked like some old geezer at hearing the words, “I
like you…u like me?” Last Friday’s opening and lighting of the Olympic
cauldron was to understate it, spectacular, stupendous and not to ignore
supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. If you didn’t see it, shame on you.
The Thailand team was led by flagbearer bantam boxer Worapoj Petchkoom
who will see his first ring action this Friday against Jahyn Vitterio
Parrenello of Italy. Also due for action on the same day are Thailand’s
Pitchai Saypta and Sailom Adi. Thailand’s best hope for a medal is Manus
Boonjumnong who had his round of 16 bout on Thursday.
A couple of flag bearers of note were Alexis Arguello the great boxer
from Nicarrgua and Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines. Arguello is
remembered for his epic battles with Arron Pryon that have etched
themselves into ring lore. He had a professional career record of 82-8.
Most of those bouts aren’t remembered but the Pryor bouts are.
Olympic scoring
still ugly
As mentioned last week the Olympic scoring system has been
tweeked in an attempt to answer critisism of “lousy judging,” not to
mention corruption and bout fixing. A lot of this came about as a result
of Roy Jones jr. being robbed before the entire world.
The change has been called computer scoring, but it isn’t really. Under
the new system 3 of the 5 judges must hit an eletronic pad within one
second of a punch for a boxer to score a point. The scoring is “open” so
everyone knows the score of the bout at all times.
In the view of Teddy Atlas, “it seems to me like an attempt was made to
remove the fingerprints from a bank robbery. They call it computer
scoring but the only thing electronic is the cord leading to the scoring
pad. It didn’t work.”
Bad judging comes from bad judges. The early rounds of Oympic boxing
have seen low scoring in bouts where even Ray Charles could see that
punches were landed. Plus a knockdown recieves no more scoring than a
“pitty-pat, marshmellow pillow ballet dancer’s slap.” The rounds are 2
minutes with the boxers going 4 rounds.
Yanks lose medal favorite before games
The USA’s hopes for a gold in the bantamweight division went
‘out the window’ when Gary Russell jr. collapsed while trying to make
the weight in the days leading up to the games.
“The two-time national champion was found unconscious and severely
dehydrated early Friday morning,” U.S. coach Dan Campbell said.
Russell’s roommate, light-flyweight Luis Yanez, alerted the American
coaches shortly after Russell returned from a run in a final effort to
reach his 119-pound weight limit.
By missing the pre-games weigh-in he’s out. Russell’s family had raised
$10,000 so they could attend the games, which is now down the drain.
Russell has five brothers all named Gary. When everyone in a family has
the same first name that’s called the George Foreman syndrome.
So Russell’s long-time dream of being an Olympian died because of one
pound. “In retrospect would you do anything different?” asked Jim Grey.
“No not really,” answered Russell. Next question should have been, “Are
you a candidate for MENSA?”
Hatton lost focus?
With the opening of the Olympic last week TSR missed some
results from the “play for pay guys.” Jeeves has been busy putting
together a list of all results but first there are signs that a
particular boxer is losing his focus, which translates to getting ready
to say “Adios.”
That may be the case with Ricky Hatton. First he rejects his biggest
payday, and maybe one of the biggest in boxing history, by passing up a
match against Oscar De La Hoya in order to face Paulie Malignaggi on
November 22 in Las Vegas. Then there is the replacement of long time
trainer Billy Graham by “TBA”. The Hatton Team announced that Graham and
Hatton had parted ways amicably. Not so according to what Graham told
the Manchester Evening News.
“I was sacked,” stated Graham bluntly, “but if Ricky wants to finish
with me that’s entirely up to him. As a result I have decided it is a
good time to retire. I’m not going to get into a slagging match with
Ricky because we’ve been through too much together. And I wish him all
the best for his next fight.”
The possibilities have increased that Oscar De La Hoya’s last fight
(December 6) will be against Manny Pacquiao. The word is that most of
the conditions have been agreed upon with the only stumbling block now
money. Now there’s a surprise!
Clottey destroys Judah
Joshua Clottey (35-2) won the IBF welter title when referee
Robert Byrd incorrectly stopped their title bout, on the advice of the
ring doctor, due to an accidental head butt. In this case the
“accidental” head butt was actually a hard left hand, which opened a cut
on Judah’s eyelid in round 9. By the rules the bout went to the
scorecards with Clottey getting a majority decision (86-85 twice and
87-84). TSR had it 86-84 for the winner.
As is usual with Team Judah, father and son following the bout cried
crocodile tears about being robbed which was duly reported by the press.
The fact is that yet again Judah came up short and lost the fight.
Darchinyan wins big
The word was out in boxing circles that maybe IBF
super-flyweight champ Dimitri Kirilov (29-4-1) wasn’t actually that
good. Inside boxing circles it was felt that many champions fought
inferior competition in building records and gaining belts. The word was
right.
Kirilov was this supposed “superman”, never having been stopped. If he
was then Vic Darchinyan (31-1-1) was kryptonite as he delivered punches
from the Darchinyan buffet that Kiriloc ate until he was KO’d at 1:05 of
round 5. As is always the case with Darchinyan his punches come from all
angles and with great power at 115lbs.
“I would like to have a rematch with Nonito Donaire,” said Darchinyan
afterwards. For the Armenian-born Australian that would not be a good
idea as Donaire can match his power plus one or two. Donaire was
supposed to defend against Moruti Mthalane on October 11 in Macau. That
card has now been moved to December 13 - without Donaire. Instead he’s
now penciled in to defend on the proposed Margarito-Clottey, November 1
card in Las Vegas.
The Bell tolls … the final 10 count
The boxing world mourns the loss of two great boxers from
“back in the day.” Left-hander Kenny Lane has died at age 76 of a heart
attack. Lane had a record of 82-16 with most of his losses coming
against great fighters. Lane’s three fights with Carlos Ortiz were
classic contests. He would get a win over 10 rounds but lose twice when
a world title was on the line.
He also beat some darn good boxers in Ralph Dupas, Virgil “Honey Bear”
Akins and Carlos Hernandez who were all world champions. He retired but
then 18 years later came back for 4 bouts going 3-1. When he lost a
split decision to the Dave Guerra (6-7) he retired for good. I saw Lane
in person when he won a unanimous decision over hometown favorite Luis
Molina in San Jose California in 1962.
Baby Vasquez (102-40-2) was one of the most well known Mexican fighters
for 24 years. From 1950 to 1974 he was a ranked welterweight fighting
the likes of Ralph Dupas, Paolo Rosi and Teddy “Red Top” Davis. He died
last week in a car accident in his native Mexico.
All but 7 of his 144 bouts were in Mexico. One of those was against Luis
Molina in San Jose California in January of 1962. Vasquez would loose on
points in a very close bout. The Square Ring had it scored for Molina
also as they were in the upper deck of the sweltering Civic Auditorium.
Shirley U jest
As two-time WBA heavyweight champ John Ruiz (43-7-1) prepares
for his August 30 title match against Nikolay Valuev (48-1), he has shed
“The Quietman” tag by speaking to the press. Big mistake. Too many fail
to understand that more often than not people who are quiet are not
“thoughtful or deep,” they simply have nothing of interest to say and
don’t say it very well.
After “whining” that his last four fights haven’t been on TV Ruiz said,
“It’s sad to say but right after my last fight against McCline, a
reporter asked me about me going back to holding my opponent. It’s easy
for them to say that because they think that’s my style. Reporters are
just used to it, I guess, but I’m challenging them to a bet. It can be
by the round, or the entire fight; so much money per hold
(differential), or a flat rate. If I hold more, I’ll make a donation to
the charity of the reporter’s choice; if Valuev holds more, the reporter
has to make a donation to my charity. They can have as many reporters as
they want betting for whatever amount they choose. I’m giving them a
chance to put their money where their mouths are. Then, finally, they
will realize that I don’t fight like I used to; no more clutching and
grabbing for me.”
‘Ok Jeeves, clean out the bank account we’ve just hit the lottery. My
charity? Me.’
Jesters Care For Kids
Sir Frog and his business partner Nuch want to get a
jump-start on this year’s event. They are holding a Jesters Care of Kids
Charity Lunch Brunch on Saturday, August 23 at Patrick’s Belgian
Restaurant just off Soi Diana. For only 500 Baht they will provide a
Belgian buffet both warm and cold: “Yum, yum good for the tum.” For
advanced reservations call Patrick at 081 687-2410. Jeeves says, “Be
there or be square.”
Jeeves Time
‘Your Lordship, I’ve done the research that you asked for in
regard to future house guests at Mansion Casa’ de Reed. I’m told that it
would not be possible to install a coin operation on your washer and
dryer. I’ve also discovered that it would be impossible to install magic
finders on the two cots in the garage. Therefore I would suggest that
maybe the following price list might apply for anyone using the
washer/dryer: underwear 5 baht, Hash underwear 20 baht, T-shirt 5 baht,
socks 2 baht each, short pants 5 baht, long pants 10 baht.’
‘Jeeves, does that same rate apply to lady visitors?’
‘No your Lordship, in the unlikely event that you should have a female
visitor all their laundry will be charged 1 baht per item except for
“unmentionables” for which there will be no charge. I will include
washing, drying and folding.’
‘Fine job Jeeves, you may now serve the magic brain fluid, light up a
fire stick, slip in a CD and let’s celebrate putting together another
great column.’
Ramsay rattles up first win
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral
Sunday, 3 August, saw the Pattaya Golf Society return
to Eastern Star to play its usual Sunday stableford event, for many the
golfing highlight of the week with the group from the OK Corral, with
its customary large single flight.
Let it be said now that Eastern Star is not the “doddle” it used to be,
with the temporary greens adding a new challenge with their length,
placement and slopes. Interestingly one has to go back quite a while to
find winning scores well under-par.
It was no different on this occasion with a stiff breeze blowing all day
as Chris Voller, Dave Ashman and Peter Masters tied for second with 33
points each, leaving Ronnie Ramsay at the top of the leaderboard on 35
points, giving him the honour of his first individual win with the
group. True to his Scottish roots his generosity prompted him to ring
the bell in celebration, back at the OK.
There were no birdie 2’s, leaving a large rollover for the following
weekend.
John Rehm has been very much the man in form recently. Only the previous
week he played two rounds in a total of thirteen under par and the
subsequent five shot cut in handicap put him under extreme pressure to
come up with the goods again. The result was foregone as he left six
balls in the water and one up a coconut tree to give him the Booby Bevy
to start his final week’s competitions with the PGS. Next weekend he’ll
be back at work in Switzerland whilst we other lucky souls return to
take on Eastern Star again.
‘Matchplay Blues’ blown away
The Emerald was the venue for the Pattaya Golf Society’s
fourth International Pattaya Matchplay League match of the season on
Tuesday, 5 August, when the opponents were Jomtien Golf.
Successive defeats by the narrowest of margins at the hands of
Lewiinski’s had left the OK Corral team bent on revenge and the golfers
from Jomtien were to feel the sting on the empty course in Ban Chang.
At the top of the order Dave Stockman and home captain David Thomas took
their ties against Keith Hector and Jim Lane, with Chris Voller adding a
third scalp, beating Burnie Sinclair 4 & 2 in the third tie.
Jomtien’s Bryan Rought took Tony Thorne to the final putt before losing
his tie and thus the PGS lay “dormie 4” at the halfway stage. Jitters
took over as Peter Duncan found giving so many shots away to his
opponent, Jomtien captain Glyn Evans, cost him the tie 5 & 3 but the
nerves were calmed in the next tie as Ken Deringer came home 3 & 1
against Peter Grant.
In the final two ties Carl Lovatt lost to Jomtien’s Jim Johnson 5 & 4,
leaving John Rehm to tie things up by defeating Robert Green 3 & 1 in
the final tie. Thus the Society won its first victory by 6 ties to 2.
In the associated stableford event, cut at nineteen and under, victory
in the second flight was shared appropriately by the two organisers Len
Jones and Glyn Evans with 35 points, Markku Tynell taking third with 31,
and in the top flight Dave Stockman took the win with the best round of
the day, 36 points, from Tony Thorne and Keith Hector on 34.
Tony also took the 2’s pot for the only birdie two of the day on the
fifth hole. He duly celebrated by ringing the OK’s bell later at a
relieved presentation which had seen the PGS take its maiden matchplay
win.
Triple Crown at Green Valley
Green Valley was the host for the Pattaya Golf Society on
Thursday, 7 August as the group played a stableford competition on the
well-prepared course. Fairways are lush and the greens are acceptably
slick. Playing off the forward white tees the course was not as testing
as it usually is but it still made for a fine competition.
Of those with hopes of a high finish “Kermit” of Ban Chang must have
been disappointed that his 37 points did not rate a mention as David
Thomas, Ken Deringer and Chris Voller all shared the win on 38 points,
David registering the day’s best gross figures of 75, despite
three-putting the last hole. It should have been a gross level par round
and the disappointment was etched on his face as he trudged off the last
green. It was golf at its best nevertheless.
There were no birdie 2’s on the fast greens but Peter Masters, playing
with the triumphant trio, let the group down badly, coming up with only
28 points and thus he was rewarded with the Booby Bevy. In his defence
it was amazingly the first time he had played the course after golfing
with the group for more than a year. It was also an enjoyable experience
because the course was vitually empty, but that will be a distant memory
as the annual ‘Asian invasion’ begins in a month or so.
O’Brien stars at Burapha
PSC golf from Café Kronborg
Dave Richardson
&Tom Cotton
Monday, 4 August, Khao Kheow - Stableford
1st Dave Richardson 29pts
2nd Peter Basi 28pts
3rd Doug Maiko 27pts
Khao Kheow hosted a Stableford event in one flight under delightful
weather conditions. The course itself was also in very good condition
with the exception of the greens, which are under various states of top
dressing and gnarly rough which was reflected in the low scores. It has
to be said though that although under repair, the greens were still
quite puttable.
Thursday’s
A & B Flight winners: Kris Helgason and Henry O’Brien.
Dave Richardson was the overall winner with a measly 29 points, Peter
Basi was second with 28 points and Doug (the “Shark”) Maiko was third
with 27 points. Hugh O’Donnell was fourth beating Graham Buckingham on
count back, with both scoring 26 points.
Just a reminder for those who have not played Siam Plantation - we will
be having a “Better Ball” event there on Monday, 18 August with the
presentation of awards following back at The Courtyard.
Thursday, 6 August, Burapha – Stableford
A Flight
1st Kris Helgason 34pts
2nd Walter Baechli 34pts
3rd Per Ocau Baari 31pts
B Flight:
1st Henry O’Brien 39pts
2nd John Hemmingsen 33pts
3rd Knut Tuvstein 32pts
On Thursday morning 19 of the anointed convened at Burapha to test
themselves in the usual Thursday morning stableford competition, which
on this day was held on Wednesday, to take advantage of the “Sports Day”
green fee discount.
Throughout the day the sky was overcast and the air was breezy, thereby
cooling the contestants.
We played C and D courses and the greens were quite fast, although the
rough was rather thick and slow. Several barefooted gardeners were
attacking it with lawnmowers, thereby obscuring the singing and chirping
of the birds.
One of the interesting shots of the day was by Iceland’s Kristiann
Helgason, who on D3, found a fairway bunker off the tee, hit his second
into another fairway bunker and his third shot into a bunker beside the
green. From there he “well-outed” for a sandy-3 par, showing all there
is nothing to fear from bunkers.
Ian’s tiles sparkle
IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday, 3 August, Green Valley -
Stableford
A Flight
1st Ian Grout (11) 40pts
2nd Bob Newell (6) 40pts
3rd Jeremy Masse (12) 40pts
B Flight
1st Colin Davis (15) 40pts
2nd Dale Shier (13) 37pts
3rd Blackie Blackburn (16) 36pts
Near Pins: #2 Dale Shier; #9Ian Halfpenny: #12 Bill Broschart;
#16 Ian Grout
2’s: Kris K, Bob Newell and Jez Lees.
Hidden Six: 1st Kathy Doody, 2nd Dale Shier
Ian the tile Grout, Bob “the captain” Newell, Jeremy “ear muffs” Masse
and Colin “the GM” Davis were co men of the match with 40pts apiece.
Colin’s B Flight winning score was three clear of Dale Shier, and an
additional one ahead of Blackie Blackwell
A Flight was a very tight affair with the top three places all carding
40 points. Third place, after completely ignoring the Wireless, went to
Jeremy Masse, second place went to the relief secretary, and Captain Bob
Newell, but winning the flight was Ian “the Tile” Grout with the best
back nine.
Seemed like a good day for the admin plus Rigsby and Miss Jones. Only
six golfers failed to score less than 30 points, out of the thirty-eight
competitors.
Tuesday, 5 August, Laem Chabang - Stableford
A Flight
1st Don Lehmer (12) 36pts
2nd Barry Winton (4) 35pts
3rd Ian Grout (11) 35pts
B Flight
1st Peter Ring (20) 38 pts
2nd Merle Humphreys (19) 38 pts
3rd Bob Lindburg (16) 35 pts
Thirty-nine golfers and Jez Lees traveled to play the beautiful Laem
Chabang.
A Flight was won by Don Lehmer carding a very nice even par round 36pts
to beat the new “IPGC champion” Barry Winton. Barry took second place
after a count back over Ian “the tiler” Grout, both with 35pts.
B Flight winner was the man from Co Dublin, Peter Ring on a count back
over Merle Humphreys, both with 38 excellent points. Third place was
taken by Bob “the guru” of Green Valley Lindburg on 35 points.
Meanwhile ‘Big’ Phil Groves had the only ‘2’ of the day, very nice.
Wednesday, 6 August, Crystal Bay - Stableford
1st Gabriel Enright (12) 44pts
2nd Merle Humphreys (19) 40pts
A small group made the trip to the immaculate Crystal Bay. Winning the
day and playing off his old handicap with an amazing 44 points was
Gabriel Enright. Second place was filled by Merle Humphreys with a great
40 points and the unlucky Chaten Patel had 39 points for nothing
Tony Hill and Merle Humphreys both had a ‘2’. Amazing, as the prices
come down, the scores go up. Back at Lewiinski’s after the game there
was an eerie silence. Wireless has returned to Norway, to take on the
Norwegian government, and not at golf.
Friday, 8 August, The Emerald - Stableford
1st Stuart Rocchi (16) 40pts
2nd Don Lehmer (12) 40pts
3rd Peter Ring (20) 40pts
The Emerald welcomed a fair sized group of Lewiinski’s golfers to this
Desmond Muirhead & Nick Faldo designed course where four contestants
carded 40 points. This in its self is a feat for one player, but four
players? The count back revealed that Stuart Rocchi won the match on C/B
over Don Lehmer. In third spot was the ever-popular Irishman Peter Ring.
Also with forty points and winning nothing but applause was Bill
Broshart, bad luck Bill
There were two 2’s, from Stuart Rocchi and Don Lehmer.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya Land Soi 1, Beach Road
Soi 13/3 near to Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop
in and add your name to the list or call Colin on 089 826 0764.
Transport is provided.
Kronborg still top but big shake up for the other front runners
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
200 Bowlers: Aht, Tue, La
& Nok.
Café Kronborg won three points from VFW Post 9876 and
remains in first place. Montana moved into second place after taking all
four points from Bavaria. Jack Tar is now in third place after taking
four points in their match against Brother D and SaBai SaBai Friday
moved up to fourth as they took all four points from Canada. Team
Montgomery won all four points from Sala Thai Restaurant and Café Ole
took four from House of the Golden Coin.
Best series on the day were bowled by: Nok 201, 179, 204 – 584, La 201,
177, 190 – 568, Dang 192, 188,174 -554, Tue 529, Mai 526, Sue 521, Teuvo
517 and Somrak 516.
Evans’ approach leaves
partners dumbstruck
Jomtien Golf with the IPGC
Monday, 4 August, Green Valley –
Stableford
Our fortnightly visit here, before the high season kicks in,
and while we can still get a reasonable booking-in time we are all going
to make the most of it. There were 26 players out today.
With rollovers from Greenwood and Eastern Star in the 2’s in division 1,
there were an amazing three today from Ben Findon on the 9th, and Mikael
Andersson and Keith Hector on the 12th. In division 2 an incredible
8-iron shot from 120 yards rolled in on the sixth hole to earn the
organiser a share of the kitty with William Chang, who also birdied the
12th hole.
Nearest the pins went to Mikael Andersson, Ben Findon, Keith Hector and
Bill Hewitt (Div. 1) and William Chang, Jack Hinchey, Joe Kubon and
Roger Ribbins (Div. 2).
In the stableford competition the field was cut at 19 and above and
Gordon Everingham took the second division honours with 38 points. Roger
Ribbins and Glyn Evans both contested second place with 36 points, but
Roger snatched it on count back.
In the first division Keith Hector pipped arch-rival Bill Hewitt on
count back after they both finish with 37 points, Ben Findon came third
with 36 points.
Wednesday, 6 August, The Emerald - Matchplay
(see OK Corral report)
Friday, 8 August, Eastern Star – Stableford
When leaving Siam Cats and travelling along Beach Road with
the wind howling and the sea looking in a ferocious condition, there was
speculation that wouldn’t be able to play today, but as we approached
the course the outlook looked more favourable than in Jomtien. With a
few spots of rain on the first tee, these soon disappeared and a
glorious day ensued.
There was another ‘2’ for the organiser on the 13th as his approach shot
disappeared into the hole leaving a few bewildered faces on the green.
Bryan Rought also birdied the 17th (the temporary green) to share in the
prize pool. There were no winners in division 1 so a rollover to Crystal
Bay on Monday.
Miss Nit won the division 2 stableford with 32 points after beating Les
Winch on count back, while Glyn Evans took division 1 honours with 35
points with Bryan Rought second on 31 points.
Our fun game of the month, a two-person Canadian Scramble has now been
arranged for Treasure Hills on Wednesday, 27 August. Looking ahead and I
think for the first time there may be a 2-person rainbow multiplier at
Emerald on the 24 September. We will keep you informed.
Note: Jomtien Golf meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at
Siam Cats, Soi 5 Jomtien Beach Rd. at around 8.30 for a 10am tee off
time. Please sign up in the bar or call Glyn on 086 837 5464.
The League of Legends - Round 6
by Howie ‘The Old Dart Coach’ Reed
In the Chinese culture the number 888 is lucky. But there were was nary
a Chinese person playing darts in round 6 of the League of Legends at
The Spa last Friday night. That would be August 8, 2008 or 888. That
aside, for at least 2 players it was their lucky day.
Bobby
George dances on the stage after making a dramatic comeback against
Keith Deller. (Photo/Betfred.com)
The odds are good that Cliff Lazarenko’s 7-3 win and Bobby George’s come
from behind draw had the two legends levitating over the crowd, just as
Li Ning did hours before in China as he lit the Olympic cauldron.
Meanwhile neither Dave Whitcombe nor Peter Evison can be pleased with
their 6-6 draw. That’s true especially for Evison as he again blew a big
lead. Bob Anderson will be happy that he got another win (7-2) which
puts him at the top of the table heading into the final week of league
play.
Bob Anderson 7 - Eric Bristow 2
As has been the case throughout this Legends play, the crowd was
loudly lubricated and stoutly behind the ‘Crafty Cockney’. That support
didn’t transfer to his doubles though as Bristow’s loss eliminated him
from the semi finals.
Eric had his chances as Anderson wasn’t on his best form, falling behind
1- 0. At 1 all Bristow missed a bull finish that allowed Anderson three
at 42 which he collected. From leading 2-1 Anderson staggered to a 5-1
advantage even though both players had the ‘wobblies’ in the double
zone. Bristow took leg 7, but 8 and 9 went to Anderson as he turned out
the lights on Bristow.
‘I’m very proud to have qualified first,’ said Anderson later.
Dave Whitcombe 6 – Peter Evison 6
Just as he did in week 1, Peter Evison had a big lead only to blow
it and hang on for a draw. From week one it was written that ‘a 6-6 draw
is “like kissing your sister.” Pre-tournament favorite Bob Anderson
would probably have kissed anyone’s sister as he had to battle back from
4-1 and 5-2 down to earn a draw against the “Fen Tiger” Evison.’
Fast forward to week 6, this time it’s Dave Whitcombe who was down to
Evison but came back for a draw with nary a sister in sight. At 4-1 down
Whitcombe took the next 4 legs and a 5-4 lead, which tuned into 5-5 when
Evison hit a “Beer League” double 1. When Whitcombe failed to check in
the 11th leg Evison used double 8 to get within a leg of the win. As
happened in week one Evison had a chance in the final leg but
Whitcombe’s double 5 produced the 6-6 draw.
What did Whitcombe think of his play? ‘Terrible, right from the word go.
I’ve been practicing all the time and done everything right only to get
it wrong on the stage. Now I’m stuck because I don’t know what’s going
on. I played well to win my opening three games but played badly in the
last two weeks. I was lucky to get a draw against Peter. I’ve no idea
what’s going on with my darts at the moment.’
Evison? ‘I should have won, without a doubt. Dave was struggling and I
was cruising at 4-1 but I don’t know what happened. I think it’s the
pressure of trying to qualify.’
Every pub darter can empathize with Evison as there are times when
they’ve found out that it’s hard to take a deep breath when you’re
choking.
Bobby George 6 - Keith Deller 6
Few dart players in history have been as popular as Bobby George. By
the same token few have been as underrated as a player. If you
underestimate Bobby George you’ll pay the price - a fact of life that
Keith Deller learned the hard way.
George was down 6-3 and could have chucked it in but he didn’t. With the
backing of a howling crowd “Bobby Dazzler” danced his way back for a 6-6
draw that was as big as any win.
‘When I got to 6-6 I thought there was another leg to go,’ said George.
There should be but Brits are big on this tie being a win “light” deal.
George has always been refreshing for his honesty. ‘I haven’t played
very well all the way through to be honest,’ he said. ‘It’s been real
Mickey Mouse darts. But that’s the way it goes I suppose. The other guys
have just been better than me and it’s annoying.’
The draw for Deller means he’s got a “ win and you’re in” scenario for
this week.
Cliff Lazeranko 7 - John Lowe 3
Big Cliff Lazarenko did the business on pal John Lowe to keep alive
his hopes of making the final four. This was a match that was about
winning. With the win there are a number of combinations that will
advance Lazarenko into the final nights play.
Lazarenko has come a long way since his losing match to Bob Anderson
where he was clearly aggravated by the unruly crowd. He put that behind
him, moved ahead and now sits in sole position of third place.
‘There’s four spots available in the semi-finals and five of us going
for them in the last week, and I think that means the League of Legends
is working so well,’ said ‘Big’ Cliff. ‘I have a reputation for never
lying down and I’m delighted with this win. I struggled to get over the
line but let’s bring Stoke on.’
Final League Round
It all comes down to the play this Friday night at King’s Hall in
Stoke. The only match that has no significance is Eric Bristow against
John Lowe. Both are out of the tournament and have been a disappointment
for their worldwide fans. They’ve played thousands of times so they’ll
probably put on a show as the fans get ready for the real competition.
Bob Anderson (10pts) v Bobby George (3pts)
If Bob Anderson again has “double trouble” King Bobby could steal a
win here. While Anderson has qualified, a loss could move him out of the
number #1 seed spot. For Bobby George it’s all about pride as he’s been
eliminated from the final night’s play. Anderson gets the edge here.
Cliff Lazarenko (8pts) v Peter Evison (8pts)
Lazarenko has a “slim” lead for the third spot using various tie
breakers: the tie breakers here being slightly less complicated than
Chinese arithmetic.
Evison has got to improve not only his double play but also his scoring
or Lazarenko will take him to the woodshed. Evison should be in the
semis already but his two blown wins have set the stage for this match.
Here a win by either player and they’re in the round of 4. A tie, or a
loss coupled with a Deller loss and they’re in. Old Chinese dart saying,
“Don’t worry about what may happen, take care of own business.”
Both players have to go all out. Lazarenko going for his third win in a
row. The ‘Old Darts Coach’ thinks Cliff wants it more. Maybe 7-5 for the
Big Guy
Dave Whitcombe (8pts) v Keith Deller (7pts)
Darts is a simple game - it’s the players that make it complicated.
For Keith Deller it’s very simple: win and maybe advance to the semis
and finals at the Circus Tavern, lose and stay at home.
By his own admission Whitcombe hasn’t been playing well the last couple
of weeks. A loss by Whitcombe and the early leader of the league could
be out of the semis as there are 4 players going for 3 spots.
Whitcombe’s 23 scoring average last week was his lowest of the
tournament. Not a good sign. He’d better “strap it on” or Keith Deller
will lay a whipping on him. Look for Whitcombe to recapture the magic of
early league play.
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