Wednesday bowls league goes down to the wire

Brumi John receives the PSC Champion’s top from Dave.

Wednesday 6th June saw the final round of matches completed to decide who would win the PSC Wednesday Spring Lawn Bowls singles league at The Bowling Green in Pattaya.

The league ran over 10 weeks with various people in contention, however, on the final day club captain ‘Brumi’ John and Ken were the only two people still in with a chance of taking the crown. Ken had to win his last two matches, which he did in great style, so the league went to the last game with John just edging his opponent Peter Skinny to take the title.

The final table saw John on 28 points with Ken just falling short on 27. Well done to everyone that competed!

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Lek, Sue, Tui & Christian.

Brother D is the new first place leader after they won all four points from Caf้ Kronborg. Tue Pettae sparked Brother D with games of 183, 170 and 199 for a 552 series.

VFW Post 9876 remains in second place behind good bowling from all three of their bowlers to take three points from Indiana. Pao Orawan bowled games of 181, 170, 185, 536 series, Ooy Pluemkamon had games of 180, 176, 175, 531 series and Tui Amphanon had a 201 game and 514 series.

Ken Johansson bowled a 537 series to lead Bavaria to a four point win over Mitt in 2012.

Lek Reaper bowled a 225 game and 547 series to lead Canada to a three point win over Green Tree. Green Tree dropped from first to third place.

Spare bowlers did well this week with Franz Sigler leading the pack with games of 208, 206, 166, 580 series, Sue Murphy had games of 184, 168, 211, 563 series and Christian bowled a 202 game and 512 series.

Lamun wins Bob’s Birthday Cup

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

Friday winners and podium placers, from the left, Bob St Aubin, On, Eng, Paul Bourke, Capt’ Steve and Lamun Hanley.

Monday, June 11, Burapha - Stableford

25 Outbackers went to Burapha for our normal Monday outing and as per usual, we largely had the course to ourselves on a breezy overcast day. We teed off early from the whites on C & D and had a leisurely four hour round on a course that is being prepared for the Mercedes Junior Championship later this week. The tees and fairways were good and the greens were flat, fast and true but have many dry spots that make them (the greens) look ordinary; time will tell if they recover quickly.

Welcome back to the Kiwis, here on their annual trip; Geoff Christie, Dion Lane, John Low and newcomer, John Warwick

We had two divisions plus the ‘2’s. The top score of the day and winner of Division 1 (0-13) was Lloyd Shuttleworth with 74 gross, 40 points of his 6 handicap, from Andy Todd with 36 points off his 10 handicap who beat Dion Lane (11) on a count back; and fourth went to Robert Barnes (13) with 35 points.

Division 2 winner was Sunanta Duangwaw with 38 points on her 33 with from in second, Frank Mills with 34 points on his 16 handicap; third was Peter Stonebridge (15) with 32 points with fourth going to Nigel Wright (30) also on 32 points.

There were four ‘2’s; Lloyd Shuttleworth on C5, Geoff Christie on C8, Wayne Cotterell also on C8 and Stephen Mann on D2.

Div A (0-13)

1st Lloyd Shuttleworth (6) 40pts

2nd Andy Todd (10) 36pts

3rd Dion Lane (11) 36pts

4th Robert Barnes (13) 35pts

Div B (14+)

1st Sunanta Duangwaw (33) 38pts

2nd Frank Mills (17) 33pts

3rd Pete Stonebridge (15) 32pts

4th Bob Lindborg (20) 32pts

Monday, June 11, Khao Kheow – Stableford

Khao Kheow still isn’t creating much interest but the Outback will hang in there for a while, I’m sure it will come back into favour soon. The condition was reported as improving.

Five guys actually played but only four cards were returned with the clear win going to Paul Rodgers with 39pts.

1st Paul Rodgers (18) 39pts

2nd Sugar Ray Handford (16) 29pts

3rd Murray Hart (14) 28pts

4th Martin Kingswood (13) 27pts

Tuesday, June 12, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford

On a fine and sunny day there was a little wind making it very pleasant for some golf on a deserted course, which was in very good condition with the fairways recently cut and the bunkers raked. There were 11 Outbackers today, 3 ladies – all former caddies and 8 men. The ladies have their own competition from the reds with men playing white first then blue.

For the ladies it was ex Burapha caddy On (30) who came with a fine 39 points and for change, there were no ladies’ ‘2’s.

Organiser of the day Chad – Barry Chadbourn (21) - showed his recent four rounds in Cambodia were put to good use as he came in with 42 points, evenly divided 21 off the whites and 21 off the blues. Runner-up was his good Aussie mate, Geoff Moodie (27) with 35 points – helped with a chip in at the last hole for 4 points!

There was just one official ‘2’, from The Colonel, aka Bob Pearce, on the 5th hole from the blue tees at 188 yards. The other ‘unofficial’ ‘2’ came from Alan Pearce on the same hole off the white tee – playing 3 off the tee and walked off with a gross 4!

Ladies

1st On Lloyd (30) 39pts

2nd Laong Gatepratum (21) 34pts

3rd Noy Kamsantia (18) 33pts

Men

1st Barry Chadbourn (21) 42pts

2nd Geoff Moodie (27) 36pts

3rd Nigel Cannon (21) 32pts

Tuesday, June 12, Laem Chabang – Stableford

17 Outbackers at Laem Chabang, playing the A and C courses on an overcast, cool and windy day. As always the course was presented in good condition but the state of some of the bunkers was very ordinary as a lot of golfers/caddies either don’t rake the bunkers or don’t do a good job if they do.

Again pace of play was an issue but I suppose with a sports day you have to expect some slow players but rounds bordering on five hours is not good, especially as the course was set up easy with a lot of the white markers on the ladies tees, particularly on the Par 5’s.

We had one division with five places in the division plus the ‘2’s. The winner for the day was Tim Knight with 38 points off his 18 handicap, from in second Geoff Christie with 36 points of his 6 handicap; in third was Robert Barnes (13) with 35 points, from Tony McDonough (14) in fourth with 33 points and in fifth spot was Roy Barrell (21) with 32 points.

There were two ‘2’s from Rod Crosswell and Tim Knight.

1st Tim Knight (18) 38pts

2nd Geoff Christie (6) 36pts

3rd Robert Barnes (13) 35pts

4th Tony McDonough (14) 33pts

5th Roy Barrell (21) 32pts

Wednesday, June 13, Siam Plantation – Stableford

20 Outbackers went just up the road to Siam Plantation to play the Sugar Cane and Pineapple courses on a cool and sunny day, great weather for golf. The course was again presented in great condition and you have to acknowledge the wonderful job all the staff do from starters, ground staff, marshalls and caddies.

The pace of play was great with all groups completing their rounds in under four hours even though it’s a sports day and the course was heavily booked. The caddies do a great job and the bunkers were well presented and raked properly.

Welcome to Paul Brown for his first game with the Outback.

We had two divisions with three places in each division plus the ‘2’s. Division 2 winner with the best score of the day was John O’Keefe (17) with 39 points, with Tim Knight (now 17), following up his success yesterday at Laem Chabang, with second place here on 38 points; in third place was Brian Maddox (21) with 36 points beating Tony McDonough on a count back.

Division 1 winner was John Warwick with 38 points on his 13 handicap, who beat Capt’ Steve (9) on a count back, with third place going to Rosco Langoulant (13) with 35 points on his 13 handicap.

There was only one ‘2’ for the day on the Sugar Cane third hole from Capt’ Steve and some putt it was too.

Div A (0-13)

1st John Warwick (13) 38pts

2nd Steve Mann (9) 38pts

3rd Rosco Langoulant (13) 35pts

Div B (14+)

1st John O’Keefe (17) 39pts

2nd Tim Knight (17) 38pts

3rd Brian Maddox (21) 36pts

Wednesday, June 13, Eastern Star – Stableford

With Siam Plantation being full today, a small group of just five played down at Eastern Star today; by all reports the course was OK and good value with vouchers. It must have been very good for Eng, aka Sunanta Duangwaw, as she fired her best score ever to see her handicap come tumbling down to 28.

Wayne Cotterill had the only ‘2’.

1st Sunanta Duangwaw (32) 43pts

2nd Wayne Cotterell (12) 29pts

3rd Sugar Ray Handford (16) 28pts

Friday, June 15, Green Valley – Stableford

46 players played Green Valley and celebrated Bob St. Aubin’s birthday on a cool and cloudy day. The course was presented in great condition and the greens are on the way to a full recovery from their recent coring and sanding. 12 groups teed off from 10am and all groups completed their rounds in just under four hours.

On the whole the standard of play was exceptionally good, with nearly half the field (22 to be precise) scoring 34pts or more but it was the ladies who won the day with the best score being 42 points from Lamun Hanley who was the overall winner from On Lloyd who had 41 points to win her division (Div D) and both of you will receive handicap cuts, down to 13 for Lamun and 26.4 for On, who picked up her second win of the week - great golf ladies!

We had four divisions with four places in each division and the scores recorded were very good and resulted in some big handicap changes.

The closest fought division was Div C (15–18), where all four players on the podium scored 37pts; finishing in the following order after the count back, back 9, back 6 pts in brackets - fourth, Steve Milne (18,12); third, Ian Hart (18,14); second, John O’Keefe (19,12) and the winner, Terry Phur (19,13).

Division B had the closest spread of handicaps, just three (12–14) but surprisingly had the lowest winning score of any of the four divisions; it came from the birthday boy himself, Bob St. Aubin with 35pts – and he was surprised too! Ray Dell equalled his score but lost out on count back and one point further back were John Warwick and Murray Hart.

In the premier division, all the top four players played to their handicap or better with Dennis Pelly & John Cunningham taking fourth and third, both with 36, the ever so consistent Paul Bourke with 37 and Capt’ Steve coming good again after his runaway win in Cambodia last week, with 39.

Welcome to Outback newbie, Russ Rylance and goodbye to a couple of the boys with us last week in Siem Reap; Bill Rogers and Rick Forrest and also to Steve Plant who returns to the UK for a few months, to enjoy the summer there. Nice also to see Jochiam back with us again and having a good game out there too, second in Div D with 36pts.

Bob sponsored the novelty prizes and bought drinks for all the winners at the presentation. The nearest the pins went to Steve Milne on hole 4, Andy Butterworth on hole 9, Sel Wegner on hole 12 and Tim Knight on hole 16 and the longest first putt was won by Sugar Ray and the longest drive by Lamun Hanley.

Thanks for the day Bob and thanks as ever to Capt’ Steve for running the day.

Overall Winner

1st Lamun Hanley (15) 42pts

Div A (0-11)

1st Steve Mann (9) 39pts

2nd Paul Bourke (8) 37pts

3rd John Cunningham (5) 36pts

4th Dennis Pelly (11) 36pts

Div B (12-14)

1st Bob St. Aubin (14) 35pts

2nd Ray Dell (12) 35pts

3rd John Warwick (13) 34pts

4th Murray Hart (14) 34pts

Div C (15-18)

1st Terry Phur (18) 37pts

2nd John O’Keefe (16) 37pts

3rd Ian Hart (18) 37pts

4th Steve Milne (16) 37pts

Div D (19+)

1st On Lloyd (28) 41pts

2nd Joachim Oestreicher (22) 36pts

3rd John Player (20) 35pts

4th Sunanta Duangwaw (32) 34pts

Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or call Jack on 087 941 2474.

Christmas comes early for Claude

PSC golf from Lewiinski’s Golf Society

Sunday, June 10, Green Valley - Monthly Medal

A Flight

1st Mark Wood (9) Net 69

2nd Bob Newell (6) Net 70

B Flight

1st Claude Harder (14) Net 66

2nd Pierre Bietry (19) Net 71

Red Flight

1st Yui Bietry Net 68

Near Pins: No 4 Mark Wood, No 9 Steve Little, No 12 Yui Bietry, No 16 Terry Mangan

Mark Wood started the day with glee as he noted that he had made it to8.5, hence 9 on the latest handicap sheet. Well ironies of ironies, Mark did need that extra to head the A Flight, as he edged ‘Broad more’ Bob and Ken Aihara by a single stroke. Bob did win the count back although Bob had made a handicap move in the other direction 7 to 6, which if left alone, would have given Bob the Monthly Medal. “How’s your luck”?

Medal winners Claude and Yui.

B Flight provided the monthly Medal winner for June 2012 Claude Harder with a splendid net 66. Claude was awarded the lead crystal glassware and a bottle of Jameson’s. Claude was five strokes clear of good friend Pierre ‘the magician’ Bietry.

Yui Bietry was the clear winner in the red flight with a net 68 plus two 2’s and a near pin. As all our readers know, Yui joins Claude in the gold medal final to be played later in the year along with their names added to the Lewiinski’s wall of shame.

Bob Watson joined Yui with the days only other 2.

Monday, June 11, Khao Kheow A&B - Stableford

A Flight

1st Jim Bell (19) 35pts

2nd Steve Little (7) 33pts

B Flight

1st Mike Jeffreys (19) 36pts

2nd Joe Tynan (34) 32pts

The man of the match was none other than soon to be back to the UK, Mike ‘the Welsh wizard’ Jeffreys. Mike showed all his mettle as he was the only player to play to par on the tricky Khao Kheow A and B configuration.

Joe sat nav Tynan goes from strength to strength as he edged Geoff Elvis Kubas on count back as both were locked on 31 points till Joe checked his card and noticed he had gone out a shot, but the prize helped with his expenses.

Jim Bell led the boys home in A Flight - hold on, Jim in A Flight? Goodness me! Jim was two shots clear of a bunch of players log jammed on 33 points; Steve Little, Terry ‘pork chop’, Scot Max and Tore Eliassen, and count back dictated that Steve joined Jim on the podium.

Steve also posted a 2 along with Bob Watson, Les Cobban and Geoff Kubas.

Wednesday, June 13, Burapha A&B – Stableford

A Flight

1st Terry Mangan (12) 40pts

2nd Phil Page (12) 39pts

B Flight

1st Colm Donavan (20) 33pts

2nd Joe Tynan (34) 32pts

B Flight had the bragging rights on Monday but A Flight won them today, and the man they sent to do it was Terry ‘pork chop’ Mangan who fired a flawless 40 points. Terry needed every one of them as Phil Page was just one stroke behind as he closed the flight.

B Flight belonged to the Irish as Colm Donavan stood atop the podium on 33 points; Colm was one shot clear of Joe ‘sat nav’ Tynan as Joe made his second visit to the pay window this week.

Terry added a 2 to his man of the match honours along with Thierry Petrement.

Friday, June 15, Crystal Bay B&A - Stableford

A Flight

1st Paul Hack (12) 37pts

2nd Phil Page (12) 35pts

B Flight

1st Nellie Stoer (18) 37pts

2nd Jim Bell (16) 33pts

Interestingly enough, both A and B Flights had identical first place scores; Paul Hack and Nellie Stoer both bettered their handicap on the day and sat atop A and B Flight respectively. Their respective bridesmaids were Phil Page with 35 points and Jim Bell on 33 points.

No 2’s were claimed so it’s a rollover on Monday.

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.

Richman & Funk both hit 40 at Burapha

PSC golf from the Blue Moose Sports Bar

Joe St. Laurent, left, and Herbie Ishinaga.

Monday, June 11, Pattaya Country Club – Stableford

Once again the weather gods smiled down on the Blue Moose group this Monday the 11th of June. There was some cloud cover but it was mostly sunny with a nice breeze. The course was in good condition but the tee boxes continue to be renovated and some tee-offs were almost to the blue tees.

Herbie Ishinaga finally returned to the golf group and despite his limited mobility he managed a respectable 34, losing to Joe St. Laurent on the count back.

The group made a stop off at the old Caddy Shack for a few beverages before moving on to other venues and eventually back to the Blue Moose.

Thursday, June 14, Burapha – Stableford

Always an enjoyable course to play, the Blue Moose gang played the “A” and “B” courses. Weather was fine and the course was in great condition. Several players outdid themselves particularly George Richman who surprised himself with five birdies.

George Richman and Bruce Funk.

The only downside today were four groups of “gentlemen” from an Oriental country that shall remain unnamed (starts with the letter “K”, two foursomes and two fivesomes, each player taking numerous practice swings and several post hit practice swings). Finally one of their caddies prompted them that they were holding up other players. Play took 4ฝ hours.

The rough was cut short which is always nice. Rich Murphy and Jim Hern got closest to the pins and for their efforts got a bar chip for a top of the line beverage of their choice. Back at the Blue Moose while cards were tallied, players enjoyed a selection of pulled pork and roast beef sandwich makings.

George Richman had 40 points as did Bruce Funk, but George won on the 2nd count back.

Next play will be at Pattaya Country Club, on 18 June, Tee time 0726 and Phoenix Country Club, on 21 June, Tee time 0752. Come on out and join the play.

Bo & Bob blitz breezy Bangpakong

PSC Golf from The Growling Swan

Bo Cardwell, Peter Blackburn & Bob Akapito.

Peter Blackburn

Monday, June 11, Bangpra – Stableford

Another good “low season field” of 14 golfers were signed up to play the popular Bangpra golf course and as we assembled at The Growling Swan we started the “waking up” process with complimentary tea, coffee and friendly banter. Dobbsy was strutting around showing off his brand new Growling Swan Golf shirt, Stu “Heineken” Rifkin had yet another heavy cold and Peter Grey had his usual Monday morning hangover and was looking forward to his AFM (alcohol free Monday).

We welcomed back Graham Buckingham from his three week trip to the U.K., Volker Buley from Germany & Bob Akapita from Gove, Northern Territory, Australia. We managed to depart a couple of minutes ahead of schedule at 8.28 am and arrived at the course after a record 36 minute drive.

Our scheduled tee time was 10.00 am and had we not had to wait for a foursome that was booked in ahead of us we would have got away well before 9.30 am but as it was our first group was able to hit off at 9.40 am. The weather was glorious, the golf course in fantastic “nick” and as usual those treacherously quick greens were catching everyone out.

Having played this course many times we should know to keep the ball below the hole on the greens but I for one was a slow learner on many occasions throughout the round. Mike “Hunter” Gosden made the comments that there would not be too many very good scores today and as usual he was correct. We were playing at a very good pace and finished the front nine in just under 2 hours so had a quick drinks stop at the half way mark.

Proceeding in similar fashion we were enjoying the outing except our golf was nothing to write home about but we had a very funny moment on the 18th tee. Graham “Buckers” Buckingham, who now and again lets out a Monica Seles type grunt as he plays his tee shot did a very loud one (grunt that is) as he teed off on the last. Hitting off after him, Frenchman Alain Taddei, who rarely says any more than calling out his score during a round, let out an even bigger “grunt” as he hit his drive. A very timely act of “taking the mickey” which had Hunter almost in tears and wishing he had a spare pair of undies.

The monkeys appeared to be having the day off although some golfers in the other groups spotted plenty of them. They obviously weren’t interested in watching our foursome and I can’t say I could blame them. A great day out on this lovely course and we completed the round in just on four hours.

With the smallish field we had just the one flight plus nearest the pin rewards on all the par threes and longest first putts on A9 & C9, kindly sponsored by Ken (let’s hear it for) Bernek & Stu Rifkin.

After 11 points on the front nine a podium finish would be the furthest thing from someone’s mind but an excellent back nine of 21 points gave Bo Cardwell 32 points and she was declared the winner on the day on a count back. This was a terrific effort from Bo who was the winner of the Compass Cap at our last outing.

In second place came Alain (Inspector Clouseau) Taddei (13 point back nine). Mike Gosden came third with 31 points and another count back with both on 29 points saw Graham Buckingham (14 point back nine & 10 points on the last 6 holes) finish fourth from Daryl Evans (14 point back nine & 9 points on the last 6 holes) in fifth spot. In form golfer Mashi Kaneta also had 29 points but a 13 point back nine saw him just miss out on a podium finish.

1st Bo Cardwell (26) 32pts

2nd Alain Taddei (18) 32pts

3rd Mike Gosden (12) 31pts

4th Graham Buckingham (23) 29pts

5th Daryl Evans (22) 29pts

Near Pins: 8th – Eric Black; 12th – Ken Bernek.

Long Putts: 9th – Alain Taddei; 18th – Bob Akapita.

Volker Buley celebrated his return by winning the Compass Cap (awarded for the worst score on the day) and Hunter paraded Deefa the Dog who is reveling in his new home and collected many donations from the generous Growling Swan Golf crew.

Back at The Growling Swan afterwards we replayed many of our shots, discussed what could have been and enjoyed the camaraderie and merriment whilst downing several “Aussie cold” low priced beers.

Thursday, June 14, Bangpakong – Stableford

There were 16 of us signed up for the trip to the popular and classy Bangpakong Riverside Country Club and thanks to Bo & Daryl we were able to use just one minivan. After the previous night’s big crowd at The Growling Swan watching the second Australian Rugby League State of Origin game between NSW & Queensland there were understandably a few sore heads so the complimentary tea & coffee was welcome relief, particularly for Dobbsy who took the Queensland defeat fairly badly. Sniffing Stu “Heineken” Rifkin was also not looking the best after several Bundies on the night but nonetheless presented himself for the outing like the good team man that he is.

Welcomes were handed out to Nigel Cannon, PSC Social Chairman who joined us for the day and Dick Braimbridge who has returned from a couple of weeks in Cambodia. Sadly it was time to say farewell to Bob Akapita who was returning to Gove, N.T., Australia the next day but will be back with us in 3 or 4 weeks time.

We got away from the G.S. 5 minutes earlier than planned at 8.25 am and after a very good run arrived at the course in just under one hour which is as quick as we’ve ever been. This trip included a “pull over” by a Thai policeman just after we went through the “Toll Gate” as he had spotted that the passenger in the front of the bus was not wearing a seat belt. Not mentioning any names but his initials are “Hunter” Gosden and he promptly reimbursed the driver with the 100 baht fine, so let this be a lesson to others.

Surprisingly this lovely golf course was practically deserted so after our locker room preparation, sun screen application etc. we strode to the first tee where we were asked to proceed as soon as we were ready. Our first four-ball teed off 5 minutes ahead of schedule at 9.55 am in just about perfect weather conditions except for a rather stiff breeze which made things a bit tricky.

The course was in terrific shape as ever although after Monday’s greens at Bangpra it was the exact opposite here as the greens were recovering from being cored & sanded and were much slower than normal. They didn’t appear to worry one of our group, Mike Allidi who slotted in a nice birdie putt on number one, his first of 6 birdies for the day. There was no-one in front of us so we proceeded at a very good pace and finished the front nine in two hours after a stop for drinks before the 8th tee. As we approached the tenth tee it was obvious that a Thai four-ball had been slotted in ahead of us but to their credit they soon got going and didn’t hold us up at all.

Whilst watching the “Mike Allidi Show” we managed to play some reasonable golf ourselves and after another drinks stop completed our round in just under four hours. It was a great day’s golf with fabulous weather on a pristine golf course with excellent company. Just another day in paradise!

We had 2 flights with A Flight for handicaps 0 to 18 and B Flight for 19 and over. There were rewards for nearest the pins on the four par threes and longest first putts on the 9th & 18th greens. Many thanks to Mike Allidi, Mike Gosden & Martin Todd for assisting with sponsorship of these awards.

In the end the stiff breeze did not appear to be a factor as remarkably there were no scores under 30 points and a couple of very good ones. Mike Allidi’s 69 gross unfortunately was not good enough to win the A Flight which was won by Bob Akapita who had 42 points, 1 point more than Mike. Eric “Judge” Black finished third with a fine 39 points.

Bo “Mama” Cardwell had her second win of the week by finishing on top in B Flight with 39 points and in a count back for second & third on 37 points Jerry Dobbs (19 point back nine) finished ahead of Daryl Evans (18 point back nine).

A Flight (0-18)

1st Bob Akapita (17) 42pts

2nd Mike Allidi (2) 41pts

3rd Eric Black (13) 39pts

B Flight (19+)

1st Bo Cardwell (26) 39pts

2nd Jerry Dobbs (23) 37pts

3rd Daryl Evans (22) 37pts

Near Pins: 4th – Nigel Cannon; 7th – Stu Rifkin; 13th - Eric Black; 16th – Mike Allidi

Long Putts: 9th – Ken Bernek; 18th – Eric Black

As mentioned before there were no really poor scores but returnee Dick Braimbridge managed to win the Compass Cap (awarded for the worst score on the day) and he luckily missed out on being fined as his spectacles managed to fall off his face and into his food as he was eating. One of those very funny moments that “tickled” all who witnessed it. Hunter once more escorted Deefa the Dog around who collected many donations to charity from the ever generous Growling Swan Golf group.

It was then back to The Growling Swan for a few hours and several celebratory beers with much humor and merriment. Judge was trying to come to terms with the fact that his trip is nearly over with just one more game left but we all know that he will be back before too long. With more visitors from Perth, Australia arriving next week we are all looking forward to more fun times.

Worboys wins, Wangjuntra wows

PSC golf from The Golf Club

Steve Ellison

Monday, June 11, Green Valley (White tees) – Stableford

1st Keith Worboys (14) 37pts

2nd Chaten Patel (13) 36pts

3rd Phil Smedley (12) 33pts

Mr. Keith! Can you believe you finished on top of the heap? It must have been when Venus crossed over the path of the Sun that made the alignment just the right conditions for a Worboys win. That is the only plausible reason a victory of this magnitude could have ever happened. In any event, he did it his way and Keith Worboys won with 37 points to beat Chaten Patel by one for his first win in a long time.

Keith Worboys.

Phil Smedley continued his run of good consistent golf for third place with 33 points.

Greens were still a bit bumpy but rolled well enough and the rest of the course was in fine condition. Most courses in the area will be doing some sort of maintenance this time of the year, a necessary evil but it obviously must be done. See you here next Monday.

Tuesday, June 12, Laem Chabang (White tees) – Stableford

1st Phil Page (12) 36pts

2nd Mark Wood (9) 34pts

3rd Ken Aihara (5) 31pts

We changed our normal Mon/Wed/Fri schedule this week to take advantage of the sports day currently on offer for Tuesdays. It has been awhile since we took to the fairways (and rough) of Laem Chabang so it was good to get back to one of the best courses in Thailand.

Since the “Siam’s” have opened, I think L.C. has felt a bit overshadowed by those flashy Siam Sisters. It shouldn’t though, as this course ranks as one of the best around. The sports day special every Tuesday is all the more reason to get out here now!

We were treated to the A & C nines which we found to be in great condition with greens as good as they have ever been. Phil Page sure liked them as he was targeting the hole all day, and was the only golfer to shoot their handicap on the day.

Mark Wood was second with 34 points while the very consistent Ken Aihara took third with just 31 points- a steal if there ever was one!

Looks like a lot of the lads were a bit rusty on Jack’s track! Get out here soon, the deal will last for a few more months.

Jerry Hughes, Steve Little, Jez Lees & Mark Wood.

Friday, June 15, Wangjuntra (White tees) – 4-Man Scramble

There needs to be a sign on the 1st tee - as they say on the Beeb – “Player discretion is advised, some golfers may find the following holes distressing”. This is a wild and adventurous golf experience that is not for the faint hearted, with extreme elevation changes, massive greens and spectacular views of the distant mountain ranges. There is a lot of nature out there! This was going to be a fun day of golf, and we were not disappointed. For the record, it is pronounced “Wanjan” as our Thai/American buddy Kris K. tells us.

We had 32 hardy souls track out the 90 minute ride out there, meeting up with the Soi Dao lads coming back from Jez Lees birthday tour. Long Drive specialist Mikey “Muscles” Craighead pipped both Bob Newell and Mark Wood on the Soi Dao 11th by hammering cannons past them both. Not bad for a 78 year old geezah!

A well attended outing like this is always loads of fun, and the 4-man scramble event was the correct format at this difficult track. Yes, there were a few teams that had to resort to alcohol to deal with the peculiarities of a course like this, I am afraid to report. Let’s hope we never have to witness behavior like this again, at least until we visit again next month.

Even by scramble standards, 58 is a damn good score at this course. A big round of applause please to the English-Irish-Scottish foursome of Jez Lees, Mark Wood, Jerry Hughes & Steve Little for putting together a smashing 58 on the day! It was Mark’s 4th day of golf in a row, well played pal! You all have done us proud to tame this monster for just a wee bit, for just a wee round.

Note: The Golf Club is located on Soi LK Metro. We play on Monday, Wednesday and Friday so come join us for a seriously fun day out. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclub pattaya.com and for more information mail us: pattaya4 [email protected] and see updates at www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya

Australia day at Pattana

PSC Golf from Mulligans Lakeside

Tuesday, June 12, Pattana – Stableford

Two groups today at Pattana as many of our regulars are away visiting their home countries. A beautiful course in good condition but a bit testing for many, however the two Aussies, Allan Cassin(13) and Owen Walkley(11), fared best, both scoring 38 points, with Allan beating Owen on a count back, while Brian Maddox got an impressive 3 near pins with the other going to the Banglamung boys home.

Thursday, June 14, Khao Kheow - Stableford

Only 1 group of golfers out today, so no near pin prizes. The course was found to be in good condition and is always a pleasure to play. Getting the better of it was Jim Federspiel (17) scoring 36 points, with that man Owen Walkley (12) getting 34 for second.

We need some more players so make the effort if you are in the area - hope to see more of our regulars returning and some new faces.

Note: Mulligans Lakeside plays golf on Tuesdays and Thursdays and everyone is welcome. Call 082 475 1307 for enquiries or bookings.

Scribe scores best of a bad bunch

Phoenix Tuesday/Friday Golf Group

Tuesday’s top four pose with staff members at The Relax Bar.

Mike Gerrard

As the photo shows, a few old faces returned to ‘fun city’ to make our group a little busier today on Tuesday, June 12.

I have been saying for a couple of weeks now how well the course at Phoenix is being maintained and yet again I have to say it is getting better each week. The greens are now getting up to speed at about 10 on the stint which, along with the difficult slopes and burrows, makes these greens possibly some of the most difficult in the area.

Also it is a nice time of the year; drier (not so humid) hot weather with strong winds makes it even a pleasure to walk (for some of the course anyway).

So, onto the match today and the best score in to claim the KPK Food Services cap was from your scribe (Mike Gerrard) with 34 points, followed closely by five other players scoring 33 points. After sorting out the count backs it ended up with Richard Baldwin claiming second place with Colin Gregg and Peter Wathall joint third. Richard lost the chance to win the day when he hit a par three hole to 5 feet only to three putt from that distance. However that did not stop him claiming the near pin prize for that hole.

Other near pins went to Barry Copestake & John Bartley, with the other one going to the lucky draw because no one hit the green in one.

Lucky draw prizes, as usual donated by The Relax Bar, went to Stuart Gordon, Giorgio Baccioli, Joris Goetschalkx, Bob Neylon & Herbie Schwieterman.

For anyone who has signed up for the PSC monthly tournament on the 22nd June (at Phoenix) you will not be disappointed with the course conditions. However you may be a little frustrated with the tricky greens. If you have not signed up yet I recommend you do!

We play at 11.28 am every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday with varying styles of competition. If anyone would like to join in the fun please call me on 087 091 7565.

Benny Hansen hits the jackpot

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, June 11, Phoenix - Stableford

CSS 71

1st Benny Hansen (27) 43pts

2nd Jens Gunnarsson (15) 40pts

3rd Shuichi Kodaka (18) 40pts

4th Rut Storey (17) 39pts

5th Yasuo Suzuki (12) 36pts

It is always a pleasure to play Phoenix, whichever courses we are directed to, and this day the Lakes and Ocean courses were once gain found to be in excellent condition, which combined with the very reasonable green fee that is as good as or better than most courses in the area, it all made for a very good day’s enjoyment.

Benny Hansen.

Benny Hansen made the best of the flat and fast greens to put together his best ever round that topped his previous best by 5 shots, earning him a long awaited reduction in handicap for the forthcoming weeks. But even his best round still contained a blank hole but with only one other hole that garnered just one point it was an outstanding round in the context of his existing handicap with a stunning twelve point haul over the last four holes on the Ocean course, including three pars.

Jens Gunnarsson also found the course to his liking and was unfortunate to have met Benny in such good form as he compiled his best score since June 2010 that featured two wipes and could therefore have been even better than four under handicap. It just proved good enough to take second place after a count back over the inform Shuichi Kodaka, which he won with a better 22 to 20 as Shuichi followed up a strong outward nine with a repeat over the inward half, but even that big improvement over his recent results was not quite sufficient to match Jen’s strong finish.

Rut Storey took fourth place with a very good three under handicap to underline her recent form and indicated that it will not be too long before her handicap approaches single figures.

Yasuo Suzuki rounded out the good scores with an even par round that could have been so much better with a stronger ending as he celebrated a two on the sixteenth by following up with a bogey and a blob on the last to finish.

Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Yasuo Suzuki was greatly pleased to find that he had the only one in the first division.

Before presenting the prizes Stephen Beard welcomed new member Rut Storey and also welcomed back Noi Emerson, Don Everett and Philip Cass.

Wednesday, June 13, Khao Kheow - Stableford

CSS 73

1st Masanori Takano (6) 37pts

2nd Jens Gunnarsson (15) 34pts

3rd Don Everett (21) 34pts

4th Shuichi Kodaka (18) 34pts

5th Tomas Nilsson (10) 31pts

Khao Kheow is almost back to its top condition as the management seems to have taken good note of the past suggestions from various groups to improve the standards and return the course to its former high quality. It also looks in good shape and is visually much better than years earlier as the improvements to the landscaping take effect.

Masanori Takano.

Even though the A and B courses were in very good shape the scores did not quite reflect that with the standard scratch for the day increasing to 73 as too many players failed to make the necessary target of being within two shots of their handicap.

Masanori Takano was in fact the only one to better his handicap as he put in a strong opening nine to turn at two under and came back in one over, which was sufficient to take the top honours by three ahead of Jens Gunnarsson who once again put in a nice return with a good finish.

This enabled him to win the three-way count back over Don Everett in third and Shuichi Kodaka in fourth with a better 19 to Don’s 18 and Shuichi, once again collapsing over the closing holes scoring just three points on the last three holes, managing just 13 after a very strong outward three under handicap start to the round.

Tomas Nilsson at last looked like he would wish, although he started too slowly to be able to mount any real challenge to the leaders and ended up in fifth place.

The first division 2’s pool was shared by Masanori Takano, Jens Gunnarsson and Yasuo Suzuki while the second division multi roll over pot was taken by Don Everett.

Before the presentations there were welcome backs for Masanori Takano and Seil Revels.

Friday, June 15, Mountain Shadow - Stableford

CSS 73

1st Shuichi Kodaka (18) 36pts

2nd Norman Cheetham (15) 35pts

3rd Don Everett (21) 34pts

4th Jens Gunnarsson (15) 34pts

5th Rod Crosswell (14) 34pts

6th Seil Revels (5) 33pts

It had been some time since the course had been played in a single competition with it used mainly as the Pairs Scramble venue over the last few months in the belief that it would be a little too difficult for the average golfer out of Soi 13 to enjoy the day, with the course having been originally designed for the use of 15 handicappers and below. But with the experience that the players have gained over the years, it no longer strikes fear into so many as in the past and scores can be put together with a little sensible play from the tees, which sometimes means leaving a few woods in the bag on occasion.

Shuichi Kodaka.

Shuichi Kodaka at last kept up the pressure through to the last hole with a balanced round of eighteen points on both nines which was just enough to consign Norman Cheetham into second place as he was the one to weaken on the homeward half after a very good twenty points going out, and then having to settle for second place with a disappointing last five that gleaned just seven points.

Don Everett took his second third place of the week as he won the three-way count back with a better 18 points as Jens Gunnarsson took his third podium, of the week with 15, and Rod Crosswell could not repeat his good form in Cambodia with 14 on the back nine and fifth place.

Seil Revels slipped into sixth place with a three over return having suffered around the tricky greens.

Back at The Haven there was a welcome back for Rod Crosswell who had returned from Cambodia where he had a couple of really good scores that will be certain to take his handicap down a couple of shots for the coming week. There was also farewell for Peter Newham who after a short first time visit is already planning his return trip now he realizes he can golf in paradise and still watch as much AFL as he likes in the afternoons and evenings without a constant drone in the background. He is also very pleased to be able to take back a few pictures of the urn to distribute amongst his better friends.

Note: If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact mobile 082 219 0965 or call in to The Haven 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 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 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.

Older heads prevail

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at Rabbi’s Elephant Bar

The Pattaya Golf Society began its week in style with a visit to Eastern Star on Monday, 11th June, to play a stableford event on the course, about which regulars were saying, has improved with the appointment of a new head greenkeeper. It has obviously had an immediate effect with good fairways and steady, if not spectacular, greens. Indeed there is very little to be critical of these days at the Ban Chang course.

The small group of regulars saw Ken Page, on his return to the Kingdom, finish with 32 points in third and the win shared by Dave Wilkinson and Mr Len who returned 34 points each.

A strong breeze all day made getting close to the pin difficult on the par threes and there was a lack of birdie ‘2’s and the free beer draw at the presentation was won by Ken Grimes.

Eastern Star is slowly getting back to its traditional shape and this is welcomed by the IPGC group based in Soi Buakhao.

Fresh Page at Plutaluang

On Wednesday, 13th June, the Pattaya Golf Society visited Plutaluang to play a stableford competition on the East and South nines. The course was in good condition but with its customary slow greens and good progress was made until the turn when the group were redirected to West because a helicopter had delivered the admiral and his mates to commandeer the South nine. “Aye aye Cap’n!” All the best management plans and pre-round planning were thus jettisoned and the toughest of the nines lay ahead.

In third place was Dave Edwards, coping well with a virus, on 33 points, just one behind Joe Niisato who posted a return of 34 for second. In top place was Ken Page, playing his final round this short trip, and his 38 points. He also recorded the only birdie ‘2’ of the day, on the second East hole.

Rabbi’s free beer was won by the good host himself and the Booby Bevy went to low scoring Mike Wilshire as the customary welcome after a few months of golf-free timewasting in England. PGS had a good day at Plutaluang, and so did the Admiral, we trust.

Maiden win for Murray Edwards

The week closed for the Pattaya Golf Society on Friday, 15th June, with a visit to Greenwood to play a stableford competition on the C and B nines. The group had some reservations about the greens as a previous visit had seen many bare patches and found putting more difficult than it should have been. In the event however only two greens on the C nine were cause for concern but it did however take some of the gloss off the day at a usually pleasant course.

In third place was Jeff “Rabbi” Cohen with a meagre total of 27 points, his best for a while but a long way behind second placed man Tony Thorne, on 34 points. Indeed at one point the headlines were being written to describe how he had “walked it”, being the only pedestrian in the field, but his position was usurped by Aussie Murray Edwards who took his first PGS win with 35 points.

There were no birdie ‘2’s and the Booby Bevy went to Mr Len for his 6-19 split. Rod Black won the free beer draw at the start of the presentation in Soi Buakhao. Thus the week had ended in fine style once again for the Pattaya Golf Society.

Revels top scores, edges Dalton on count back

Travellers Rest Golf Group

Ted Senior winner at Green Valley.

Andy Rich

Monday 11th June saw another small group of just eight golfers start off this week’s competitions by playing the ‘monkey course’ at Bangpra. Robert Cannon, playing off nineteen, won with a creditable 34pts and showed the rest of the field that no one was going to make a monkey out of him.

David Booth, thirteen handicap, decided to take a day off from redecorating his apartment and downed his paint brushes to take up his clubs and posted 32pts which was good enough for second place.

Tuesday 12th June saw another small field of just seven golfers take on Green Valley. TRGG stalwart Ted Senior, playing off twelve, took all the money by returning 34pts and winning on count back from another regular, Jim Cleaver, playing off thirteen.

Thursday 14th June saw an increased field of eighteen pay our weekly visit to Phoenix where we took on the Ocean and Lake course. I am pleased to report that the course was in excellent condition, maybe because of all natural water that has been falling from the skies this week. The greens were the best for many months and could account for the excellent scores posted.

Bob Watson (2nd right) was the winner at Phoenix on Thursday.

The two lowest handicappers, Bob Watson playing off scratch and Max Scott playing off three, came first and second, both with 37pts but Bob winning on count back. Norman Cheetham, thirteen handicap, came third after pipping yours truly on count back with 35pts.

Saturday 16th June attracted a field of eleven people to play Crystal Bay (A & B) and Seil Revels, who won at Mountain Shadow last week, showed the way home, playing off his reduced handicap of five, with 38pts. I detect another handicap reduction around the corner for Seil.

Tim Dalton, twenty handicap, is playing better each week and is another who can look forward to a reduction after he also posted 38pts but on this occasion lost first place on count back. Norman Cheetham was again in the winners enclosure coming third with 35pts.

Mike finally wins at Emerald

The Backyard Golf Society

Mike and staff from the Blue Sky Bar.

It was another good turnout this week for the Backyard Golf Society at Emerald Golf Course. Ten players with nine in all competitions and it was good to see Andy Oz playing a full round after his illness last week!

For the second week in a row another player did not manage to complete the course, with this week’s honor going to Darren (alleged hip problem not Walking Street Syndrome).

After 2 years, Mike finally shed his label of being the only regular player not to win a Stableford competition. He demolished the field with a massive winning score of 43 points, with second place going to John Mac who beat Andy Oz on count back with a total of 34 points.

Kit won the nearest the pin prize and skin results were as follows: Andy Oz (7), Mike (5), John Mac (2), Martyn (2), Terry C (1) and Dan M (1).

Finally this week we wish Dan M all the best for his trip to the US and we will try to continue with the write ups and photos without him.

Tore on top at Treasure Hill

PSC golf from Café Kronborg

Tuesday, June 12, Treasure Hill – Stableford

1st Tore Eliassen (14) 33pts

2nd Ted Morris (15) 30pts

3rd Ronnie Ratte (29) 27pts

We were underway for the Treasure Hill Golf and Country Club on time, arriving a short 50 minutes later. The course was deserted so we booked in and hopped on the first tee at 0930 and down the first 30 minutes early.

The weather was fine and windy, not common this time of the year, and the course was in fine shape with the bunkers finally firming up after what seems like years of being soft. We finished in a quick 4 hours and 10 minutes.

Back in the clubhouse it was quite evident with the scores and stories being told that the chipping gods were not here today. Norway’s own Tore Eliassen was the winner with 33points with Ted Morris in second on 30 points and Ronnie Ratte third with 27.

There was one golfer arriving at the course with no clubs, leaving them home in his garage, and one ‘no-show’ sitting at home thinking he had signed up for next week!

Watson the class act at Bangpra

PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s

Tuesday’s top 2, Bob Watson, right, with Derek Brook.

Derek Brook

Tuesday, June 12, Bangpra – Stableford

This is the ‘original’ course for we who play from Pattaya; Bangpra has a sense of history about it and is a fine mature course. On this day we had practically a full turnout and we were soon on our way down there and with Route 7 now reaching practically into Pattaya, the trip is a relatively short one.

The new changing rooms are quite palatial and we were soon changed and onto the first tee, where we noticed the course was nearly empty but looked to be in fine condition. The fairways were well grassed and as we played from hole to hole we realised that the greens, if not totally back to their former slickness, were still really fast and extremely tricky.

As we played on we noticed the wind rising and the trouble on this course is that with such a fine surrounding of trees, the wind always seems to be in your face. You finish one hole battling into the breeze, then on the next hole going in the opposite direction and still feel as if you are facing the elements again. Weird! Still, the course at least was empty and we were able to move around at a fast, if windblown, pace. All in all it was a very enjoyable round.

Back at Bert’s it was into the presentation, where for the first time for a long time one player won all 4 near pins. I do not normally comment on near pins, but this being a bit special, it was a well done to Johnny Guarness!

So to the results, and with a great gross 72, and 38 points, the winner was Bob Watson. It is difficult for a low handicapper to win a stableford event. Mind, I cursed him up and down as in second place with 37 points was your correspondent, then in third was Joel Flor with 31 points and in fourth was Brian Parish with 29 points in a four way count back that saw Mike O’Brien in fifth and ‘The Forgettable’ Barry Elphick and Tom Cotton just missing out.

Friday, June 15, Crystal Bay – Stableford

So off we went to Crystal Bay, we go there a lot these days. There are several reasons why, mainly a great ‘Sports Day’ rate, but also this is a course you can play and usually come off with a good score as it is fairly forgiving. I hear all the talk about golfers wanting to test themselves, but when it comes down to it, make a choice between a course such as this and a ‘testing course’ and the list fills up faster for a good, cheap, relaxing day out. Mind, we do have some ‘masochists’. It is the difference between playing Crystal Bay and Mountain Shadow really.

So down there and a quick book in, and onto the first tee of the test for the day, B & A Nines and off we went. This was where the words written above came back to bite us. All the greens were cored and sanded on the front half, so that hit the greens and the sand stopped the ball running to the back, get past the sand and it was fast and ran off the back. Happy days! Still, the rest of the course was fine and you just had to take the rough with the smooth.

So the day turned out difficult, so much so that most players found it hard to approach 30 points and only two actually beat their handicaps. Not at all like a normal day at Crystal Bay. Still, it is always an enjoyable day at this course, and reasonable, so most players enjoyed it.

Back at Bert’s it into the presentation and the winner on the day was Barry Elphick with 37 points, but only on count back over Mashi Kaneta. Mashi is looking dangerous again. In third we had Mike O’Brian with 34 points. Then it was relax time! TTFN.

Near Pins: Alan Sullivan (2), Ted Morris, Mike Gaussa

Homeruns hail in new era of PSC Softball at Thai Polo Club

Brian hits his 1st homerun of the day off a pitch from Rick S. Dirk at 1st base and Rodney at 2nd look on in amazement.

Diego Wells

It seemed like it was raining long bombs on the diamond at softball this past Sunday, June 17 as a record 7 homeruns were recorded at the Thai Polo Club (our 1 month young, lovely venue). Both old and new PSC softball members hit dingers. Congratulations goes out to rookie Sam who hit a solid smash over the left field fence, while rocking Rodney hit 2 to right field (one was hit so hard, it may have been responsible for our 5 minute rain delay).

Welcome back to Brian Gavagan who came ready to play, wearing his sweet new spikes that he brought back from America. He crushed 2 balls over the right field fence to win the best dressed homerun hitter award (you can see his 1st homerun shot in pic). Not to toot my own horn, but yes, I hit 2 dingers as well, the last one being a walk-off homer to end the 3rd and final game.

It was a celebration of strong hitting and good fielding and everyone came home a winner. John Stockton’s team sponsored by “Sunrise Tacos” in Jomtiem won the first game comfortably by a score of 15-4. Dave’s team, sponsored by “The A Team Club” on Soi Excite beside the Bowling Green, came from behind in game 2, by scoring 4 runs in the last 2 innings to win 12-8. The scribe’s team that was sponsored by “The Golf Club” in LK Metro won the 3rd and final game of the day by a score of 12-11.

Thanks also go out to the few newcomers to Pattaya Sports Club softball who put their athletic skills to the test. Sammy’s strong fielding and solid hitting was warmly welcomed. But it was Jamie’s sliding and sloshing about with his slippery shoes that made the game the most entertaining for our steadily increasing fanbase (I counted five, but math isn’t my forte).

It was yet another great day of softball action at the Thai Polo Club. We welcome any and all athletes living in and around Pattaya to come out and join us. Softball action starts at noon and goes until 4pm every Sunday, so why not start a good new habit and come out and join us. Contact John Stockton ([email protected]) or myself (igolfwells@ gmail.com) or look us up at the PSC website. Play ball!

The softball gang assemble for their pre-match pic. Bottom from L to R: Diego, Rodney, Doug, Gil, Rick S., Shawn, Jamie, Mike, Vince (in his supermodel pose). Top from L to R: Rick Z, Dirk, Tyler, Andy, Dave, Bobby, John, Sam, Ben, Gep, Scotty, Brian and Greg.

‘Laughing Les’ burns up Crystal Bay

PSC golf Bunker Boys @ The Bowling Green

Monday, June 11,Bangpakong - Stableford

Just two groups of golfers today for the longer trip to Bangprakong, and when we arrived at the course we found that we had the place to ourselves. The fairways were in good shape as usual, but the greens were recovering from recent coring and repair work, leaving them bumpy and slow.

The weather gods were smiling on us though, with a pleasant breeze blowing in from the river, providing almost perfect golfing conditions. Due to the small number of golfers, we elected not to have a near pin competition, which turned out to be a wise move since very few greens were hit! It’s a feature of this course that the four par 3 holes are rated handicap 15 through to 18, which is rather strange, since three of them are 200 yards long off the white tees.

Sean Murphy continued his recent run of good form to win the honours on the day ahead of Dave Ashman.

1st Sean Murphy (15) 37pts

2nd Dave Ashman (13) 34pts

3rd Barry Murnin (15) 32pts

Wednesday, June 13,Phoenix Lake and Ocean – Stableford

On our previous visit to Phoenix we’d found the course in a poor state of repair, but today just a few weeks later, it was much improved. Two or three greens were still under repair, but generally they are returning to their normal high standard. The weather was hot, but a gentle breeze kept the conditions bearable, and there was no sign of any rain on the horizon.

Geoff Parker returned to form, after a recent run of several poor results, to take first place. There was a three-way tie for second place on 34 points, but Barry Murnin took the prize, scoring 21 points on the inward nine, including a blob on the 17th.

1st Geoff Parker (13) 36pts

2nd Barry Murnin (15) 34pts

3rd Sean Murphy (15) 34pts

Near Pins: Geoff Parker, Lee Butler and Tony Robbins

Friday, June 15,
Crystal Bay - Medal

A slightly later tee-time than usual saw us go out behind two other local golf societies, resulting in a much slower round than we’ve become used to recently.

It was immediately apparent on the 1st green that we were going to be in for a difficult day, as more than half the green had been very recently cored and the light covering of sand did little to cover the gaping holes. Judging the pace of a putt going from the cored section to the untreated portion of the greens (and vice versa) was a lottery, and any chips landing on the cored sections came to a very abrupt halt.

Despite the difficulties Les Burns seized the opportunity to emerge from the pack and record his first ever win with the Bunker Boys. “Laughing Les” had a wonderful day, scoring below the 100 shot barrier for the first time with us (PSC handicap 32, but playing off 28 in the competition), so congratulations Les and let’s hope it’s a sign of things to come.

1st Les Burns (28) net 71

2nd Dave Ashman (15) net 71

3rd Barry Murnin (15) net 74

Near Pins: Les Burns (2) and Sean Murphy (2)

The Bunker Boys are a PSC affiliated golf society who now play out of the Bowling Green on Soi X-Zyte between Pattaya 3rd Road and Soi Buakhaow. We play three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, so if you enjoy a fun day out, and a friendly but competitive golf competition why not come and join us.

We meet at the Bowling Green at 9 a.m. for breakfast and transportation, and new players with valid handicaps are always welcome. For more information call Dave on 087 146 9978, email dave. [email protected].

Rought romps home at Green Valley

Jomtien Golf with the IPGC

Monday, June 11,
Green Valley – Stableford

This was one of the quietest weeks we have ever experienced here at Jomtien Golf, with the majority of our players going home for between 1 and 3 month breaks. There were only 20 players out today and the cut in division 1 was 7-17 and 18 plus in division 2.

The ‘Asia gang’ were in front of us and we teed off 30 minutes ahead of schedule on an almost deserted course. As always here the clouds were bubbling in the distance but there was no threat of rain today, according to the caddies.

Playing off 19 now, the best recorded score of the day was in division 2 with 41 points winning it for Bryan Rought; ‘Countback’ Burnie came in second on 37 and Lee Casey was third with 33.

On a four week holiday from Nigeria, Arthur Hancock topped division 1 with 39 points, Mike Missler was second on 34 and with two players came in with 33 points, 16/16 on the back nine and 10/10 on the back six, with eventually Chris Voller beating Terry Phur 4/3 on the back two holes for third place.

Near pins went to Mikael Andersson (2), Steve Armstrong, Chris Voller, Ian Hart, Sid Ottaway and Burnie Sinclair.

In the ‘2’s Steve Armstrong birdied the fourth and Arthur Hancock the twelfth to split the division 1 pot includong a rollover from Phoenix. Ian Hart was the only winner in division 2 after a birdie on the twelfth.

Wednesday, June 13,
The Emerald - Stableford

A hot and humid day as we arrived here to another empty course. There was only one division out with us today and the new boy Steve Armstrong drove the second hole to 5ft from the pin but missed the putt which would have been a fantastic ‘2’.

David Phillips returned his best ever score with us, winning the division with 38 points. Grant Cadell took second on 37 and Al Keith was third one point behind Grant.

There were no near pins today and no ‘2’s.

Friday, June 15,
Eastern Star - Stableford

There was quite a strong breeze here today coming off the coast, just a few weeks away from the rainy season when the wind changes direction for 3 months and comes in from the east.

In the two divisions today, with six groups out, the cut was 6-16 and 17 plus, and the organizer, playing his best round for some considerable time, won division 2 with 42 points. Joe Kubon was second with 38 points and the Irish boy Cully Monks took third with 36.

The scores in the first division were not comparable to division 2, with 32 points winning it for Arthur Hancock, Tony Barritt in second one point behind, and new Eastern Star member Ted Gardner beat Grant Cadell on a 15/14 back-nine count back for third after they both came in with 30 points each.

Miss Chevrolet’s other half, Andy Baber, after two months in the doldrums, scored 5 on the front nine and then bounced back with 17 on the return and he was a happy chappy.

In the ‘2’s Chris Voller birdied the 6th to take the pot in the premier flight while in division 2 with three rollovers, Lee Casey birdied the 17th from around 4ft away and Sid Ottaway and Bryan Rought got ‘2’s on the 13th to share the purse three ways.

Near pins went to Mike Missler (2), Chris Voller, Lee Casey and Bryan Rought.

First Tartan 4000 arrives in Thailand

Peter Cummins

Tartan? In my under-educated and under-exposed youth, the noun Tartan conjured up a bunch of hardy Scots brawling in their inhospitable highlands, for the glory of their clan’s own tartan.

That concept has not really changed much – even after education and a more worldly perspective in later life. What really changed this insular overview was the day I stepped aboard a Tartan 4000 yacht, newly-imported into Thailand by George Foose, and berthed at the Ocean Marina, just south of Pattaya, Thailand.

The Tartan 4000 under sail.

The Tartan 4000 was a “dream” of George’s, his newly-imported yacht appropriately named the “Dream”. George is a well-known sailor in and around Thai waters where he skippered his Ericson 38 Freewind to considerable success in many of the regattas which are held up and down Thailand’s coast-lines annually.

This is one of the first of these magnificent 4000s, built at Painesville, Ohio, USA, (with the appropriate address there as “One High Tech Avenue”) bordering the huge network of the US Great Lakes system, and the first to be brought into the Kingdom of Thailand. And, even with a yacht-building boom engulfing Thailand, it will not be the last. Quite the contrary, I feel, for the quality, finish and overall superiority of this mid-sized Cruiser (in the range of 40 to 45 feet) will place this craft in the lead of an Asia-wide surge for such a yacht – ideal for cruising and competitive racing.

The Tartan arrived from the Painesville boat yard – now celebrating its 50th anniversary -via Singapore and then Phuket, before berthing at the Ocean Marina. While in both these ports, the Tartan was on display at marine exhibitions and, according to George, his main task while at these respective marinas, was showing many enthusiasts the beautiful lines and fittings of the new Tartan.

Decks and fittings are built for strength and longevity.

The Tartan Yachts company was established in Gainesville in 1962 and has followed a very strict policy of “a commitment to design and engineering, based on total performance.” Tartan is “committed to the next 50 years with the focus of simply making our customer experience the best the industry has to offer”. The many who viewed the Tartan at both the Singapore and Phuket boat shows (PIMEX, in the latter case), would subscribe to the company’s philosophy.

George, in keeping with his strong attachment to Thailand, had the majestic blue hull embossed with the logo of the “Suphannahongse”, fore and aft. This mythical Thai swan is the identifying feature of HM the King’s own royal barge, used for festive occasions on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River and readily identifies with the Thai people. In fact, George called over his boat-boy, who comes from a tiny village in the North-east, who immediately recognized the “Suphannahongse” logo on the hull.

As we sat in great comfort in the yacht’s ample air-conditioning at the Ocean Marina (ambient temperature outside was around 38C., George showed obviously enormous pride in the cherry-wood finishing, wood-work and trimming of the doors, cabinets and hatches around the craft, George pointed out his “pilot berth”, neatly placed as part of the cabin fascia. “Tartan threw this one in for free”, he said. He also pointed to the numerous overhead hatches, complete with mosquito netting and shades.

Among the superior stainless fittings and equipment, the craft features an adjustable transom, for ease of boarding and, complete with a ladder, ideal for swimming and water sports from the yacht.

Hand-crafted in the USA, Tartan Yachts have a 50-year heritage of combining cutting-edge technology and all models feature composite cored hulls and decks, with infused BPA epoxy. Such features as mast, Park Avenue boom, steering pods and rudder shaft all carbon-fibre. The mast, for example, is incredibly light and strong, weighing a scant 100kg shipping weight.

Added to this are the cruise control rigs, stunning cherry-wood interiors and all craft are totally rigged and outfitted with the finest hardware available, as well as North Sails. Tartan owners and aficionados comprise successful professionals and entrepreneurs, amongst senior executives and investors who have an uncommonly-high demand for the company’s traditional blending of beauty and performance.

One of the panelists, Alvah Simon, a judge for the selection of Boat of the Year, 2012, was ecstatic about the 4000. “The keel-stepped mast, the double head-sail solent rig with the self-tacking jib (known around the Painesville boat-yards as cruise control),” he noted, “as well as the bulwarks and the varnished cap-rail, the T-shaped cockpit, with the twin helms,” are incomparable Alvah added.

Other detail include the steering pods, and rudder shaft all carbon fiber. Hull and deck are diviny cell with vacuum infused BHP epoxy. 75 HP Volvo D2 diesel sail drive, all electrics including inverter and generator are Master Volt and the interior fabric is ultra-leather standard. So superior is the construction of the Tartan, that the company under-writes the hull with a 15-year hull warranty.

George referred to his formative years in the US mid-west where he always hankered after the Tartan 4000 and, in 2010, George committed to purchase one of the first five boats to be built. “Now, I both own one and, through my company, Sports Engineering and Recreation Asia, represent the Tartan Marine Group’s interests in South East Asia”.

For the statistically-minded, the Tartan 4000 is resin-infused laminated in “one shot”, eliminating secondary bonding of structural materials. Length overall (LOA) 40.7 ft (12.41 metres); beam 13 ft (3.96 m); ballast: centerboard 8,600 lbs (9573 kg); total sail area: 890.9sq ft (82.77 sq m.). The Tartan can carry 60 galls (227 l.) of fuel, 120 galls (454 l.) of water and there are seven berths. Designed by Tim Jackett, the 4000 is the newest model to come out of the Tartan Yachts complex and it compares, according to George, to a very up-market model of a new automobile.

One critic, Ed Sherman, examining the Tartan, noted: “It has a traditional feel; they have retained that classic Tartan look, but they have also given you ergonomics that work well throughout. The layout is very pleasing (and) the galley was really impressive… the companion-way steps were wide…and it was easy to go fore and aft, even when the boat heeled”.

Although George is a very competent sailor, he will limit his time on the Tartan to be more cruising-oriented. He, no doubt, agrees with other sailors who rate “the truly versatile design” (of the 4000) which will facilitate coastal cruising and off-shore ventures, summed up by Beth Leonard: “The Tartan delivers excellent cruising capabilities; this boat is really a coastal cruiser, capable of passage-making. I would take it anywhere”, she added.

No doubt, George agrees and he is already planning passages to some of Thailand’s beautiful islands, especially in the Andaman Sea area, Phuket, Phang Nga and some of the myriad islands, such as Koh Chang in the south of Thailand, as well as Malaysia.

Although racing will not be his main objective, nevertheless George participated in – and won – the Cruising Class Division in the monthly Ocean Marina Yacht Club’s championship, just finished that day.

As I returned to the Royal Varuna Yacht Club, just north of the Ocean Marina. after this visit, I wondered if Tartan Yachts would be willing to trade in my 20-year-old OK dinghy, as a down payment on a new Tartan 4000!

Mercedes-Benz Asian Masters Final winners off to China

Winners at the 10th Mercedes-Benz Junior Golf Asian Masters pose with their trophies.

The 10th Mercedes-Benz Junior Golf Asian Masters Final was recently held at the Burapha Golf & Resort in Chonburi province. A total of 155 golfers from 11 countries competed in the event, which saw 6 Thai golfers selected to represent the Mercedes-Benz junior golf team to compete in the Zhang Liang Wei Cup in Chengdu, China from 6–9 August this year. The six golfers in the team are Thitapa Pakdeesetiakul, Peerada Piddon, Chonnikant Chaiyasith, Atiruj Winaicharoenchai, Prin Phikan and Thirawat Luangsuree.

The tournament which was played in good conditions saw a sudden death play-off in the boy’s 12 and under class with both Atiruj Winaicharoenchai and Parathakorn Suyarsi recording 4 under par scores of 212 over the 3 days of golf. Atiruj finally won the class on the 2nd play-off hole. In 3rd place on 213 was Tanapat Pichaikool, with Bhichayoot Sima-aree a further 5 strokes behind in 4th spot.

Thai golfers dominated the boy’s 14 and under class in what was a three way fight between Prin Phokan, Puwit Anupansuedsai and Ekthumrong Luanganuruk. Prin finished with a 4 over par total of 220, which was 2 strokes ahead of his rivals with Japan’s Taiga Miura in 4th spot.

It was another very tight finish in the boy’s18 and under class with Hong Kong resident Mizuno Shinichi’s total of 219 just edging out Thirawat Luangsuree by one stroke. Nattanon Khanthacha was 3rd and India’s Ankur Chadha took 4th spot.

A last day charge saw Pongsathorn Pengboonma capture the men’s 23 and under class, his one under par 71 gave him a combined total of 228 and victory by 2 strokes over Steven Lam from Hong Kong, with Zin Min Thu of Myanmar in 3rd place and Winthai Wiwatsanitchai in 4th position.

In the girl’s classes, honours were even between the local players and the overseas entrants. In the girls 12 and under class, the local girls completely dominated, with 5 Thai golfers separated by only 2 strokes at the end of 3 days. Thitapa Pakdeesetiakul won with a score of 232, one stroke ahead of Thanyawarat Temyord, with the fast finishing Nicha Vorrasanpisut and Bhenyapa Buranasiri in 3rd and 4th spots on 234.

Peerada Piddon ran away with the 14 and under class, finishing a whopping 8 strokes ahead of Michelle Lee of Hong Kong, with Piyatida Sararat a further 2 strokes behind in 3rd place.

Myanmar’s Yin May Myo captured the 18 and under class finishing on 233, one stroke ahead of Chonnikant Chaiyasith who carded a score of 234. Her final round charge of 74 left her just short of taking the title. Sirapassorn Cheepborisut finished in 3rd place on 239.

The women’s 23 and under class was dominated by the overseas golfers who took the top 3 places. Ma Chia Mei of Taiwan was the winner with a score of 239, followed by May OO Khine of Myanmar 2 strokes away in 2nd spot and Magsino Jean Alexandra of the Philippines in 3rd place.

The Mercedes-Benz Asian Masters Final was supported by Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) Limited, PTT Public Company Limited, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Grand Prix International Co., Ltd, Thansettakij, Nike Golf, Lacoste and Burapha Golf & Resort.

United hold defending champs to 1-1 draw

Pattaya United and Buriram fight to a 1-1 draw at the I-Mobile Stadium in Buriram on Wednesday, June 13. (Photo/Pattaya United)

Pattaya United secured a well deserved share of the spoils after holding defending champions Buriram United to a 1-1 draw at the I-Mobile Stadium in Buriram on Wednesday, June 13.

Pattaya took the lead in the match on 23 minutes when Korean Kim Doo Yong received a pass on the right hand edge of the Buriram penalty area and held off two defenders before calmly steering a shot into the far corner of the net.

Having more than held their own in the first half, Pattaya came under considerable pressure after the break as the hosts strove to get back on level terms. Shots rained down on the Dolphins’ goal while at the other end of the field Paul Ekollo fired over the bar when he seemed well placed to double Pattaya’s advantage.

Just when it looked like United might hold out for an improbable victory, they conceded a free-kick on the edge of their own area and the quick thinking Boonmathan fired the ball over the wall and into the net while the Pattaya defence was still trying to organize itself. The referee waved away protests from the Pattaya players and the scores were tied.

Both teams gave it their all in the final 10 minutes and the result could have gone either way with chances missed at either end of the pitch but there was no further scoring and Pattaya could come away happy after a strong performance at arguably the toughest fixture of the campaign.

Pattaya United are back in action again on Saturday, July 7 with another away match, this time at Insee Police United, kick-off at 6 p.m.
 

Female duo provide fairy tale ending at indoor bowls event

The winners, far left, pose with the runners-up and losing semi-finalists at the Coco Club, Sunday, June 17.

The Coco Club held its first pairs indoor lawn bowls event on Sunday, June 17, with thirty two players from 6 different countries registered in 16 pairs to try their luck. The format enabled two men or two ladies or a mixed couple to compete against each other on a league and knockout basis.

The draw was made at 9.30 in the morning with matches starting just after 10.00am and it soon became clear this would be a very competitive and long day as the first 9-end matches took nearly 90 minutes to finish.

The 4 leagues produced some fascinating results and surprises. League A left Pin and Pooky 4 bowls short in losing to Thanom and Lek on bowl difference in a tied match-up. League B was remarkable with Dancer and Kelvin (who didn’t get to bed that morning until 4am) taking it but not before they had been given a real shake by two new Thai ladies - Kitty and Yuppa - who held up but missed out on a 7-8. League C was taken by the very experienced old campaigners Dave and Harvey.

League D proved to be even closer than the others, with Shirley and Mike - regular bowlers at Coco – holding two Thai national team players who competed at the Malaysian Tournament of 2012 - Vinni (Gold medallist) and Go (Bronze medallist) to a 5-5 draw on 9 ends of bowls, but on count back Vinni and Go secured the last semi-final spot.

It was not finished even then as we were still left with the semi finals with two Thais against two English pairings. In the first semi-final, Thanom and Lek took the match by getting the better of Dancer and Kelvin - who by then was almost asleep on his feet. The other semi final saw the young stars Vinni and Go overcoming the English “pros” Dave and Harvey in a spirited match.

This set up an all Thai final in what used to be a Commonwealth game, with two young local Thai girls Thanom and Lek against the vastly more experienced young Thai guys Vinni and Go from Bangkok and by now it was nearly 8.30pm! Yet, it was not finished and the fairy tale happened with the girls outgunning the guys by a 10-4 scoreline to take the first prize at nearly 10.00pm.

The Coco Club is starting a free bowls academy for school children from 11.00am to 2.00pm every Saturday, with our Thai ladies as tuition leaders. Anyone interested should telephone 038 709 199 or 087 135 8357 to register.
 

Eastern Star Chairman’s Cup returns

The 9th Chairman’s Cup golf tournament is being staged at Eastern Star Country Club & Resort from now until the end of October, with the first round taking place this Saturday, June 23 with an already fully booked-up entry list.

The Chairman’s Cup features 5 qualifying rounds followed by a finals day on October 15, with the top three golfers being treated to a paid trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia for a 2-day golfing holiday.

The cost of entry into each round of the Chairman’s Cup is 1500 baht and includes green fee at Eastern Star golf course, caddy fee, and dinner following the round. Members of Eastern Star can play for just 1000 baht while golfers who pay upfront can get a special green fee to play unlimited practice rounds at Eastern Star at a cost of just 500 baht on weekdays and 700 baht at weekends.

The format for the event is singles stableford using the 36 system handicapping (maximum 24). One hundred and fifty golfers from 30 winners and lucky draw recipients of each round will qualify for the final in October.

The next round open for entry takes place on July 28, with subsequent qualifying rounds being held on August 18, September 8 and October 6.

For more information and registration, call 086 377 6744, 084 883 8280 or email chairmanscup@easternstar golfcourse.com.
 

St Andrews School hosts international sports event for students

The year 6 girls team get the gold medal!.

Matt Dunn

The inaugural St. Andrews School Primary Invitational games took place on the weekend of 25/26th May with Garden International School, Kuala Lumpur, and St. Andrews, Bangkok joining the host school in a 3 team invitational tournament.

Jade gets stuck in and takes the ball from Garden School, Kuala Lumpur.

The emphasis was on getting Year 4, 5 and 6 children (aged 8-11 year olds) to enjoy friendly competition against other children and getting the opportunity to take home as many medals as possible.

The first day was the athletics and swimming competitions, taking place with all children competing in every athletics event on the day with medals going to the top 3 of each gender in each age group, while each swimming event that took place was a final, guaranteeing each participant in each race a medal.

The first day was a great success with children getting up to 15 medals throughout and there were many happy faces at the end of the day.

On the Saturday it was the turn of Tee-ball and football team sports. The football played throughout the different age groups was a joy to watch and there were some spectacular individual and team performances from all 3 schools.

On a personal front the St Andrews School Year 6 teams took gold medals in both the Boys and Girls football and the combined Tee-ball. St. Andrews, Green Valley performed admirably throughout as we were facing GIS, in Kuala Lumpur with over two thousand students and St. Andrews Bangkok with twice the number as Green Valley.

The tournament finished with a meal for all participants and spectators and somehow the children showed that they had energy left by having a huge game of rugby!

Coaches, parents and children were united in their belief that these games were exactly what they were intended to be. A chance for children to enjoy sports without the usual pressures and to be able to make friends that they can keep for life.

Overall Results

Football

1. GIS

2. St. Andrews BKK

3. St. Andrews Green Valley

Tee-Ball

1. GIS

2. St. Andrews Green Valley

3. St. Andrews BKK

Athletics

1. GIS

2. St. Andrews Green Valley

3. St. Andrews BKK

Swimming

1. St. Andrews BKK

2. GIS

3. St. Andrews Green Valley
 

Wednesday bowls league goes down to the wire

Pattaya Sports Club Bowling League

Lamun wins Bob’s Birthday Cup

Christmas comes early for Claude

Richman & Funk both hit 40 at Burapha

Bo & Bob blitz breezy Bangpakong

Worboys wins, Wangjuntra wows

Australia day at Pattana

Scribe scores best of a bad bunch

Benny Hansen hits the jackpot

Older heads prevail

Revels top scores, edges Dalton on count back

Mike finally wins at Emerald

Tore on top at Treasure Hill

Watson the class act at Bangpra

Homeruns hail in new era of PSC Softball at Thai Polo Club

‘Laughing Les’ burns up Crystal Bay

Rought romps home at Green Valley

First Tartan 4000 arrives in Thailand

Mercedes-Benz Asian Masters Final winners off to China

United hold defending champs to 1-1 draw

Female duo provide fairy tale ending at indoor bowls event

Eastern Star Chairman’s Cup returns

St Andrews School hosts international sports event for students