The 18th annual TQ (Tahitian Queen) Masters golf tournament took place at The Emerald Golf Resort on Friday, Oct 21 with a full field of eager golfers teeing it up at 9.04 a.m. in cool early morning weather conditions and hoping for a rain-free day.
The tournament was split into 3 divisions for the men with a maximum handicap allowance of 24 and a separate flight for the ladies with a max 36 handicap. All the flights utilized a stableford scoring format.
The posse of players took to the fairways in high spirits as the free amber beverages were liberally dispensed by the non-golfing volunteers; namely Wild Bill, JD, Kevin and Joe… helped in no small measure by the lovely staff from TQ. But, what would a TQ golf outing be without, Ernie’s Creaser Mix to get everyone started!
2011 Green Jacket winner Kris Kritsanajootha (2nd left) receives the congratulations of Steve, Woody, Mike and John.
If this sounds like a serious golf outing it was, though by the end it was the one standing steadiest who prevailed.
In true form and just off a plane from the USA, Kris Kritsanajootha won the coveted Green Jacket, which goes to the player with the best score of the day regardless of flight. His fantastic 42 points easily won the A Flight ahead of Ernie Maclnernny’s 40 points.
It was more closely contested in the B Flight where Rod Carmichael beat The Golf Club’s Steve Ellison on count back, 37/17/12 to 37/17/11.
Ready to tee it up at Emerald.
C flight meanwhile was won by Bob Taylor, beating Dale “The Dapper” Drader 36 to 34. Dale sported the original 1st Annual TQ Masters shirt… and was personally responsible for helping empty at least one of the beer coolers.
Last, but by no means least, Yui Bietry added some much needed pulchritude to this year’s honors board as she took out the Ladies division.
Near pins were won in order of holes by Jeff Gortler, Bob Newell, Paul Ovens and Brad Sproxton, while the Long Drive prize went to Bob Ninneman and Longest Putt to Ken Cook.
Back at the Tahitian Queen following the golfing matters, the day was topped off with more celebrations and the now traditional roasted ox leg, provided once more by Bjarne of the Café Kronborg – which proves again that the “Great Dane” can really cook!
Despite prior doubts about the inclement weather of late posing a threat to the tournament, it proved once again to be an enjoyable success for all who took part and those coveting a Green Jacket of their own will have their eyes fixed firmly on the date 19th October 2012 for their chance of another tilt at the title, when coincidentally it will also be the 19th edition of this traditional and fun Pattaya golfing fixture.
“Excuse me – that’s my seat!”
Two caddies short.
Time for some liquid refreshment on the tee.
Feeding time back at the TQ.
Steve Ellison was runner up in the C Flight.
Pole swinger Bob Newell picks up a near pin prize.
Which way to the next hole?
Ladies winner Yui Bietry (right) on stage with Mommasan Ead.
A study in concentration.
One straight down the middle.
Thirsty work in the midday sun.
