PATTAYA, Thailand – It was a pleasure, as always, to play at the beautiful Bangpakong Riverside Golf Course on St. Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17. The course was in excellent condition, with well-manicured fairways, neatly maintained bunkers, and greens that ran true at a nice speed.
Despite some promising starts, a few players faltered due to poor course management or misjudged shots. However, Bil Richardson remained steady throughout, securing victory with an impressive score of 42 points. Tony Robbins, who showed early promise, had to settle for second place after a strong front nine. Les Cobban claimed third place on countback from Jimmy Carr. All near pins were taken, with Bil Richardson claiming two, while Jimmy Carr and Les Cobban took one each—all in the same group. A coincidence, or something more?
On a brighter note, high-season pricing appears to be easing. Golfers enjoyed a pleasant surprise with a discount on the published all-in fee, bringing it below 2,000 baht. With rumours of more clubs offering reduced rates, a more diverse playing roster could be on the horizon.
Results:
1st: Bil Richardson (17) – 42 points
2nd: Tony Robbins (25) – 38 points
3rd: Les Cobban (11) – 37 points
4th: Jimmy Carr (23) – 37 points
Near Pins: Jimmy Carr, Les Cobban, Bil Richardson (x2)
A very fitting name for a delightful day of golf at Pleasant Valley on Wednesday, March 19. The weather was ideal, not too hot, and the course was in superb condition. The transition into low season is evident, with green fees coming down and courses becoming less crowded. This made for a smooth round with no delays.
As has been the trend lately, someone produced an exceptional round—this time it was Michael Brett, who finally found his putting rhythm and carded an impressive 43 points. Three players finished on 38 points, requiring countback to determine their placements. The near pins saw some close calls, with Frazer Davy and Michael Brett each securing two.
Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming away trip to Kanchanaburi, a perfect escape from the madness of Songkran in Pattaya. While a day or two of water splashing is tolerable, ten days can be a challenge. The trip will feature rounds at premier courses, including Grand Prix, Artittaya, and Evergreen Hills. Anyone interested should contact Colin Greig soon.
Results:
1st: Michael Brett (16) – 43 points
2nd: Mike Milland (18) – 38 points
3rd: Alan Sullivan (16) – 38 points
4th: Dave Galvin (24) – 38 points
Near Pins: Frazer Davy (x2), Michael Brett (x2)
Just when it seemed the high season was winding down, 28 golfers turned up for the final game of the week at Mountain Shadow on Friday, March 21. The course was in the best condition anyone could recall, with lush fairways and well-maintained greens. The only minor drawback was the bunkers. However, at just 1,250 baht, the value was outstanding. A shortage of caddies led to some reshuffling of the playing order, but overall, the round progressed smoothly.
A strong, blustery wind made an already challenging course even tougher, yet the scores remained respectable. Mike Milland took the win on countback from Jimmy Carr, thanks to an outstanding 26 points on the back nine. Jimmy had to double-check his scorecard but ultimately settled for second place. This marked the final round of Mike’s tour, and he bowed out in style, following the Danish tradition of ringing the bell at the bar. Michael Brett secured third place, while Mike Lloyd, also wrapping up his trip, finished fourth. Steve Downes, ever consistent, claimed sixth place along with his usual near pin.
With four more games left in the Golfer of the Month race, competition at the top remains tight. Who will emerge victorious?
Results:
1st: Mike Milland (17) – 37 points
2nd: Jimmy Carr (23) – 37 points
3rd: Michael Brett (16) – 36 points
4th: Mike Lloyd (20) – 35 points
5th: Greg Berry (16) – 34 points
6th: Steve Downes (6) – 32 points
Near Pins: Billy Shepley, Mike Lloyd, Steve Downes
