On Tuesday we went to Greenwood with 2 groups and played the B &C course, which was as usual in a good condition. We were lucky with the weather; it was cloudy with just a few drops of rain and not too hot.
(From left) Neil Harvey, Daniel Oshiro, Paddy Devereux and Alex Everden.
Daniel Oshiro (H/cap 21) confirmed his form again and won with 38 stableford points, closely followed by Paddy Devereux (22) who took second with 37 points.
The near pins were a problem today, only Alex Everden (14) reached the green for a triple.
Thursday, July 7, The Emerald – Stableford
We went to The Emerald with 3 groups on Thursday and were afraid that the course would be very wet after a night of raining, but we were pleasantly surprised to find it in perfect condition. Today was again cloudy but with no rain.
Daniel Oshiro was again on form today and won with a fine 39 points. In a repeat of Tuesday’s top two, Paddy Devereux came in second once more, this time with 34 points and in third place was Neil Harvey (15) with 32.
The near pins went to Alex Everden (twice), Mihail Iordache and Willem Lasonder.
Note: Siam Country Resort Pattaya, Restaurant & Bar is located just off Siam Country Club Rd, after going under the arch past the 7/11, turn right after 50 meters, with the venue on the left another 200 meters along. Golf from here is generally played on Tuesday & Thursday, with the Resort hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we welcome ALL golfers, including ladies & seniors (>60s) who have opted for the “Silver” tee option. Call 089 253 5440 (Willem Lasonder) for scheduling or enquiries.
Green Tree led by Yeow Gail, who bowled a 551 series with a 204 game, took all four points from first place Café Kronborg. Kronborg just had a really bad day with no bowler breaking 500.
Second place Bavaria won three and one points from Brother D. Ooy Pluemkamon bowled a 545 series for Bavaria. Matoom bowling as a spare rolled a 563 series with games of 176, 202 and 185. Brother D dropped from fourth place to fifth.
200 Bowlers: Yeow, Preecha, Nok, Matoom & La.
Preecha bowled a 608 series with games of 264, 175 and 169 and Pao Orawan had a 502 to lead PWC to a three point win over Ardeo City. PWC moved up from fifth to fourth place.
Canada won three points from Balloon Bar. David Shaw bowled a 525 series and La Montgomery had a 202 game for Canada. Horst bowled a 522 series for Balloon and Nok Ostbo had a 216 game.
Following the recent rainy period the grass has grown extremely quickly but the greens-keepers have generally been unable to keep up with the rate of growth, leaving the greens a lot slower than normal. Bangpra’s greens were a particular example on this day compared with their usual speeds, but they still provided a stern challenge with the grain playing its part in making a two-putt the main objective.
Graham Davis used all his knowledge, hard earned on the testing links greens in his home area of Edinburgh, to good effect as took the win by three clear shots after returning a very tidy card with just the single blemish on the now difficult tenth hole, belying its stroke index 18 following the redesign and lengthening.
John Tallett was by far the best of the rest in second place, as he finished seven ahead of third placed Shuichi Kodaka, underlining the difficulty of the day. Shuichi had to win a count back over Larry Gibb by 14 to 13 to earn his top three podium place, leaving Larry in fourth.
They were followed by another count back for fifth and sixth places between Phil Groves and Mike Dabanovich, which Phil won with a better 15 to 14.
There were no 2s in the second division but Graham Davis added to his bell ringing fund with his solo effort in the first division.
Wednesday, July 6, Khao Kheow A & B (yellow tees) – Stableford
CSS 71
1st Larry Gibb (21) 40pts
2nd Neil Skilton (5) 39pts
3rd Mike Dabanovich (11) 36pts
4th Jon Batty (8) 36pts
5th Shuichi Kodaka (18) 36pts
6th Phil Groves (8) 35pts
Graham Davis.
Anther time where the scores were affected by the greens were the A and B courses at Khao Kheow, but on this occasion it appeared to make them a lot easier to deal with as the very good scoring for the day underlined and with the CSS for the day reducing to 71.
Larry Gibb had his best day with the group, returning a four under handicap card which was surprisingly only just good enough to win as Neil Skilton had another good day on what is fast becoming his favourite course. But Larry held on to win as he finished in fine style, scoring ten points from the last four holes as Neil could muster only a good nine points and so settling for a well-played second place.
Mike Dabanovich won a count back for third place ahead of Jon Batty, scoring 19 to 16, and but for a couple of zero pointers, one in each half, he could even have pressed for a higher spot on the podium.
Also reckoning in the count back Shuichi Kodaka scored 15 leaving him in fifth to Jon’s fourth place.
Phil Groves rounded out the podium placements another point back in sixth position.
The day’s enjoyment for all was slightly marred by a group ahead of the competition that were extremely slow in playing (sic), but as is the case many times in Thailand, a resigned shrug, a “mai pen rai” or two, and a few extra minutes in the rest stops makes for a better outcome.
Surprisingly with the scores as good as they were on the day there were no 2s in either of the divisions.
Friday, July 8, Pattaya C.C. – Stableford
CSS 72
1st Tom McCarthy (21) 35pts
2nd Neil Skilton (5) 35pts
3rd Jon Batty (8) 33pts
4th John Tallett (24) 32pts
5th Graham Davis (8) 31pts
6th Phil Cass (15) 31pts
Tom McCarthy.
The day’s test was possibly the hardest of the week with the greens on the back nine still giving most of the player’s difficulties, but if they turn out as well as the front nine have after their growing in period, everyone can look forward to getting a lot of pleasure from playing this redesigned layout. In the meantime it is still very well worth the green fee and now also quite a challenging course.
Tom McCarthy was the best of the hopefuls, winning with the lowest points total of the week at one over handicap, but that should be seen in comparison with the field’s overall results with five over being good enough for a podium placement.
Neil Skilton took second place after losing a count back, returning a 17 to 18 as Tom just held on after taking a double on the last for a single point.
Jon Batty clung on to third place as he almost collapsed through the last three holes, scoring just three from them, but luckily those behind had left themselves a bit too much to do to catch him.
John Tallett was the closest, just one back in fourth place and with Graham Davis winning the count back for fifth over Phil Cass after scoring a better 18 to 16.
Once again there were no 2s in ether of the divisions.
Prior to the presentations there was a welcome back for Mike Hill.
Note: The Haven golf group has now relocated to Soi Lengkee, on the corner of the road leading to the Vogue Hotel, where there are good parking facilities but sadly no room for club storage at present. Whilst the kitchen in being renovated, there is a limited range of food available, but the supply of beverages continues, at ice cold temperatures and the hotel section is in full swing.
If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact 094 465 5002 or call in to The Haven, 315/13 Soi Lengkee, situated between Third Road and Soi Buakhao. 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 8.15 on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on the days that you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played throughout the year can be found on the web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com.
This is the first course on our schedule every month when we sit down to decide where we are to go. The recent water shortages on the courses have not been too bad here and as we drove up to the clubhouse all looked green and ready to go. The only drawback was that there seemed to be a bit of mist around and as one wag put it, we were more likely to have a fog delay than a rain delay.
(From left) Tom Herrington, Jun and Mick Coghlan.
The course was quite empty and so we were able to get away on time. KhaoKheow is always a tough challenge no matter how good the day is, come out with a good score here and you know you have had a top round.
The course was in good condition with grass on the fairways and greens that ran quick and true, although maybe not up to their normal speed. The biggest problem on the day was the humidity, all the players suffered and the last few holes saw many players losing points. In fact we had some scores on the day that were well below even what we usually see here.
Soon finished it was into the shower, up the stairs to the restaurant for a bite to eat and a drink, then back to Pattaya.
Bob Britton (centre) with Tom Herrington (right) and one of BJ Lodge’s finest.
Early back to town it was soon into the results. The winner was Bob Britton with 35 points on count back over Tom Herrington in second. We then had a count back on 33 points that saw Dick Warberg in third, Mashi Kaneta in fourth and Derek Brook fifth.
Near Pins: Mashi Kaneta, Tom Herrington, Paul Sharples
Friday, July 8,Silky Oak – Stableford
On Friday the Tropical Golfers decided to treat themselves to a visit to Silky Oak. We play this course just a few times per year and it’s always a special day. It’s slow season and there is also a lot of local travel going on, but still, 15 golfers made their way to BJ’s Lodge for food and cups of ambition. The later than usual tee time allowed for refills for those who wanted, and then the cars were loaded and off we went.
Silky Oak is an interesting layout that is designed to mess with your mind. There are several water carries off the tee, and even though the carries are not nearly as long as they look and easily cleared by even short hitters, it still makes for some knee knocking. If one concentrates on the positives they will find the wide fairways inviting. Speaking of fairways, the condition of them this day was very good to excellent. Sadly the greens were another matter, being both recently sanded and quite bumpy at times – Green rating, fair.
Silky Oak off the white tees is a course where good scores are common, and this day proved that – and how. You needed to be well above handicap to get mentioned.
Even with a healthy dose of high scores, one stood one stood head, shoulders, and a par 5 above the rest. Tom Herrington (course H/cap 18) awoke from a golf slumber and turned in a numbing 44 stableford points! When asked to comment about his amazing round Tom replied “A group of butterflies is officially called a kaleidoscope”. We wonder about Tom sometimes.
Next up was Mick Coghlan (H/cap 21) who carded a usually winning 40 points. Well done! Mashi Kaneta (16) had 39 points, and Dick Warberg a proud 38 points. It was quite the show of golf this day. Congrats to all!
Near Pins: George King, Tom Herrington, Dick Warberg, Aidan Murray, Peter Hynard.
This was our first visit here for some considerable time for various reasons and the day was enjoyed by all.
Near pin winner – Don Head.
The greens were a little bit patchy in places but that is understandable for this time of the year, but it did not stop John Hughes recording the best score of the day, winning division 2 with 40 points. The Bristol boy Bob Poole was second on 35.
Chris Voller won division 1 with 35 points while Paul Butler beat Terry Madsen with a 15/14 back nine count back for second after they both came in with 32 points each.
Near pins went to (Div 1) Mikael Andersson (2), Paul Butler and Terry Madsen, and (Div 2) Don Head, John Hughes, Bob Poole and Harry Vincenzi.
No ‘2’s in either division so four rollovers in division 1 and two in division 2 to Treasure Hill on Wednesday.
Back at Frasers we said bon voyage to David Taylor – all the girls are in tears now!
Wednesday, July 6, Treasure Hill – Stableford
Heavy rain overnight here in Jomtien and a few showers as we approached Frasers and a few cancellations as expected so there was only one division out today in the stableford. \
There were two 32’s fighting for the top podium position and with a 20/15 back nine count back victory, Neil Douglas beat Paul Butler to the gold while in third place was Chris Voller.
Near pins were claimed by (Div 1) Tom Yahnke, and (Div 2) John Hughes (2).
Tom Yahnke had a birdie on the 6th in division 1 to claim the rollover ‘2’s pot while John Hughes did likewise in division 2 with a birdie on the 17th.
Friday, July 8,Eastern Star – Stableford
Over the last couple of weeks with the amount of rain here this course has improved a lot, with no yellow and hardened ground anymore and a very green outlook over the course. It was very overcast here today with a cool breeze coming off the coast and we had a few spots of rain on the eighth hole but this only lasted for 10 minutes.
Two divisions out today with the cut at 7-16 and 17+ and the best score of the day was returned in division 2 from Darryl Blair, winning with 39 points. After being cut twice this week John Hughes still came in second on 36 and Tony Thorne was third with a meager 34 points.
Bill Bertram won division 1 with 37 points, Chris Voller was second three points behind and Paul Butler took third with 32.
Near pins went to (Div 1) Bill Bertram, Chris Voller (2) and Tom Yahnke, and (Div 2) Darryl Blair and Tony Thorne.
There was a rollover in the ‘2’s comp in division 1 to next Friday and in division 2 Darryl Blair and Tony Thorne both birdied the signature par-three 13th hole to split the pot.
1st Dave Richardson (26) 33pts
2nd Ronnie Ratte (20) 30 points
3rd Walter Baechli (14) 30pts
Dave Richardson.
Pattavia was the game on Monday, July 4, up Route 331 for less than an hour, a quick check-in and we were off the first tee 20 minutes early under sunny skies. The course was in fine condition with the greens a bit slower than normal.
The winner on the day was Dave Richardson with a modest 33 points while Ronnie Ratte rolled into second place on a count back over Walter Baechli in third, both with 30 points each.
Back in the clubhouse it was goodbye to Walter Baechli, off to Germany to do a bike trip to Switzerland.
Monday, July 4, Green Valley (white tees) – Rainbow Scramble
1st Mike Meir/Gareth Gill (7.5) 56.5
2nd David Walker/Bill Gneiting (18.7) 59.8
3rd Kevin Hamilton/John Emmerson (11.2) 60.8
4th Bob Newell/Simon Philbrook (6.8) 61.2
The 4th of July is here again which can only mean a Rainbow Scramble with The Golf Club. For the uninitiated, a rainbow consists of playing 6 red, 6 white and 6 blue tees with the choice being yours. There is a lot of strategy involved as many factors come into play and even on a course as familiar as Green Valley, new challenges arise.
Scramble winners Mike Mier and Gareth Gill.
The course was in great condition as the recent rains have brought a fresh lushness to the place. There is a new greenskeeper from The Banyan in Hua Hin and he is doing a great job of bringing the course back to its former glory. Once the dead patches on many of the fringes of the greens are taken care of it will be in perfect nick again.
We had 10 tee times booked and used them all save for a couple of medical withdrawals. It was great to see some of the old faces, pardon the phrase, back with us again. This year took on a special meaning to Independence Day as Great Britain just gained her independence from the EU. Hopefully the Pound Sterling will sort itself out in the near future and we get back to 50 baht levels again. In any event, we had a multitude of nationalities represented but not Japan, as Kenny Aihara was on his way back home for the summer.
Mark Wood, Masao Ishikawa and Capt. Phil.
After the match, just about everyone headed back to the club on Soi LK Metro for a special BBQ and feast with the winner’s trophy lifted by Mike Meir and Gareth Gill whose 56.5 score could not be bettered. The 4 near pins went to 5th- Gareth Gill, 8th – Simon Philbrook, 12th- Alan McKendry and 16th- Phil Lawrence.
Tuesday, July 5,The Emerald (white tees) – Stableford
1st Fred Birch (20) 37pts
2nd Phil Lawrence (16) 35pts
3rd Butch Furneaux (8) 34pts
It had been several months since we headed southwards, and today we were off to visit The Emerald for a long overdue return. This Nick Faldo/ Desmond Muirhead course was in great shape and as tough a course as it can be, it is always enjoyable. The collection of par-3’s here is outstanding and the elevation changes through the course just add to the beauty and challenge of this gem in Ban Chang.
A good field of 16 golfers completed the field of this event and 37 points was the best the lads could muster. Steady Freddie rose to top and the 20-handicapper took first place here today. Phil Lawrence claimed second with 35 (as well as our near pin!) with Butch Furneaux turning in 34 points for third.
Thursday, July 7, Greenwood (yellow tees) – Stableford
1st Masao Ishikawa (17) 38pts
2nd Fred Birch (20) 37pts
3rd Ken Grimes (21) 36pts
Not easy playing golf after such a great Pattaya Sports Club Summer Party from the night before, but we all managed to turn up at that first tee box anyway. The course was certainly damp so ‘lift, clean and place’ is our policy at this time of the year.
Greenwood has become one of the most popular golf courses with all the Pattaya bar societies these days, as the quality and price make the trip out here worthwhile.
We were quite sneaky today and tried the shortcut just 3 clicks after the Burapha entrance. We headed left at the PTT station and up and around to be back on the 331 but past all of that Amata traffic light nonsense to save a good 10 minutes off our travel time. We have installed free WiFi in our TGC van so now the trips out and back are far more enjoyable.
Our Aussie mate Kenny Grimes shot to his handicap today and a 36 got him third place on the podium. There was Tuesday’s winner ‘Fearless’ Freddie Birch with another great round of 37 for the next step up at second place. Chicken dinner today went to Masao Ishikawa whose timing on and off the course is just about perfect. Ishi showed up on Wednesday at 6ish as we were departing for the aforementioned PSC party so joined us there and now he walked away with first place! Nice going for a guy who just got his land legs. Well played Ishi-san!
Smooth swinging Scotsman Mark Wood claimed our near pin contest with ease.
Results: Bye 0 v 0 Crazy Eddie’s, San Snack Bar 10 v 5 Pom Bar, Retox Casuals 0 v 0 Bye, Phimai Geordie A 11 v 4 Red Poppy, Connections 7 v 8 Boxing Roo
Division 2
Team
Played
Won
Lost
For
Agst
Diff.
Pts.
EasyR-Con
16
15
1
164
71
93
46
Phimai Geordie B
16
13
3
154
76
78
42
Retox Hotshots
16
10
6
131
104
27
36
Boxing Roosters
16
10
6
117
123
-6
36
All American
16
6
10
105
130
-25
28
Delight Bar
15
6
9
99
121
-22
27
Valentines Bar
14
6
8
108
102
6
26
Karjala Bar
15
4
11
80
125
-45
21
Results: Karjala Bar 0 v 0 Bye, Delight Bar 10 v 0 Bye, Valentines 7 v 8 Retox Hotshots, Easy R-Con 13 v 2 Phimai Geordie B, Boxing Roosters 9 v 6 All American
A small field of 17 golfers made up for the lacks numbers with the enthusiasm shown by our golfers. One needs to ask was it the cheap rates offered up by Plutaluang or the chance to play the course that it is. We played East and South from the yellow tees nominated by today’s captain. The big navy course can be daunting to some but personally I find it a challenging layout.
Geri Crilly (left) with Shane Young.
Once again this course was in great nick with the greens playing true. There was a threat of rain but that passed as quick as it arrived. Fairways had a bit of run and there was plenty of water to challenge all golfers as it was placed, sometimes at 2 or 3 locations on the one hole.
Geri Crilly came out guns blazing and was determined to not let his back beat him on the day. With only one division it was Geri with 41 points taking the win – a good score on the day. Filling the other podium places were Denis Steele, Mark ‘The Viper’ Stapleton and Glenn Henriksen.
1st Geri Crilly (27) 41pts
2nd Denis Steele (13) 39pts
3rd Mark Stapleton (19) 37pts
4th Glenn Henriksen (12) 36pts
Near Pins: East 2 – Denis Steele, East 6 – Mark Stapleton, South 4 – Denis Steele, South 7 – Patrick Poussier
Long Putts: East 9 – Ebrahim, South 9 – Geri Crilly
Thursday, July 7, Crystal Bay – Stableford
With nineteen anxious and optimistic golfers we departed The Swan somewhat earlier than expected. All were ready for the day’s challenge to play Crystal Bay.
(From left) Glenn Smith with D-For, Peter Bye and Steve Younger.
With the weather threatening early and a deluge the previous night we were not sure as to what we would get. We played C and B Nines in that order from the yellow tees and found the course was in good nick, and fortunately the weather gods smiled at us and kept the rain away.
Peter Bye took on the challenge of being Group Captain for the day; he played very well taking the game on from the outset and came home with a very good score of 42 points. Coming in second (only 1 shot behind) were Steve Younger and Paul Sharples, both having to go to the count back. Fourth and fifth places also had to be separated by a count back with Mick Johns getting the nod over Mashi Kaneta.
Looking at the scores one can only think golf was the winner on the day!
1st Peter Bye (14) 42pts
2nd Steve Younger (12) 41pts
3rd Paul Sharples (13) 41pts
4th Mick Johns (15) 39pts
5th Mashi Kaneta (15) 39pts
Near Pins: C4 Steve Dury, C7 Steve Dury, B4 Arfer Dunger, B6 Steve Dury.
Long Putts: C9 Mike Gosden, B9 Steve Dury.
Back at ‘The Swan’, D-for (our charity collector dog) was delighted to receive many donations and the players and supporters are thanked for their continued generosity. Everything that goes to D-For is for charity!
Note: The GS is a friendly golf outlet and welcomes golfers of all persuasions. We generally play on Mondays and Thursdays at any one of the fine courses around Pattaya. Please contact Peter Grey for bookings or any information on 0861 503086.
The Growling Swan also caters to the bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs the GS on Sundays at 10 am for open grass bowling at The Retreat. The cost including return bus transport, bowling fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht so great value for a day out.
The 25th King’s Cup Pattaya Marathon hits the streets Sunday, offering 2 million baht in prize money.
Former Culture Minister Sonthaya Kunplome and Gen. San Saruthanon, president of the Athletic Association of Thailand, announced the event with Pattaya and tourism officials July 2 in Bangkok.
Mr. Sontaya said that the Pattaya Marathon has proved successful in promoting sports and tourism and attracting athletes from around Thailand and the world.
The race includes the full 42.2-kilometer marathon, as well as half and quarter marathons, plus a 10.6-km. wheelchair race and 3.7-km. jog for students under age 14.
Pattaya city will provide security along the routes and needed facilities for the 15,000 participants expected.
Kickoff is at 3:30 a.m. in front of Central Festival Pattaya Beach. For more information, visit the race’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/Pattaya-Marathon or call 02-957-5880 or 038-253-128 ext. 9.
Pattaya city and tourism officials along with race organizers pose for a group photo at the press conference to promote the King’s Cup Pattaya Marathon 2016 at the Esplanade Cineplex in Bangkok, July 2.
Monday, July 10, Khao Keow B & A (white tees) – Stableford
1st Geoff Cox (15) 36pts
2nd Geoff Parker (14) 34pts
3rd Rab McDonald (18) 30pts
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney, Les Hall, Mashi Kaneta, Geoff Parker.
Geoff Cox.
Only eleven players made their way to one of our more popular courses with its well manicured fairways and nicely mowed greens that are true if a little on the slow side. The recent rains had made the course play to its full length as there was little run on the fairways.
Geoff Cox displayed a beautifully controlled game of golf with few mistakes in playing to his handicap while Geoff Parker, back in form, managed to secure second place only two shots behind.
Wednesday, July 12, Mt. Shadow (blue tees) – Stableford
1st Neil Carter (14) 33pts
2nd Jimmy Carr (14) 30pts
Near Pins: Neil Carter (2), Jimmy Carr.
Today was the Neil and Jimmy pony show with these two fine golfers bagging all the prizes as they wiped the floor at one of our regular venues. Of course it would be unfair to mention that there were only six competitors!
The course was once again back to its former glory after the rains, with good ground coverage and some water in the dams. The rough is now showing some teeth and balls off the fairway were more difficult to find.
Friday, July 14, Greenwood C & A (white tees) – Medal
1st Neil Carter (14) net 76
2nd Trevor Priestly (22) net 76
3rd Les Hall (23) net 80
There had been fairly heavy rains at Greenwood overnight resulting in soggy fairways and restrictions on the buggies not to leave the concrete pathways. This made the course play long and because there was only one buggy path along one side of the fairways, any shots played to the wrong side of fairway resulted in long walks for buggy users.
My personal attempts to play to the pathway to save walking did not meet with great success and my playing partners were heard to comment that I had walked further using a buggy than they had using caddies only. Needless to say I gave up after nine holes.
The balance of the field then were met with rainfall for the duration of the second nine with no roll on the ball so the ‘clean, wipe and place’ rule kept the game going, with Neil Carter beating Trevor Priestly with a net 39 to Trevor ‘s net 40. Out of the nine starters no one managed to get on the green on any of the short holes.
Because some of our regulars were away we had not many players this week. Nevertheless we went Tuesday to Eastern Star where we found the course in very good condition and the weather was not too hot.
Paddy Devereux (left) with Willem Lasonder.
The battle today was between Paddy Devereux (H/cap 22) and Willem Lasonder (21) and Willem’s putt on the last hole was enough to seal the result in his favour by one point to beat Paddy 36 points to 35. Willem also cleaned up on the near pins, winning three of them.
Thursday, July 14, Treasure Hill – Matchplay
On Thursday we played matchplay with 3 competitors at Treasure Hill. The course was in very good condition and we had nice weather and finished just in time before the rain came.
Paddy Devereux had a strong start but Daniel Oshiro (20) had a good final sprint to beat Paddy and Willem Lasonder.
Note: Siam Country Resort Pattaya, Sports Bar & Bistro is located just off Siam Country Club Rd, after going under the arch past the 7/11, turn right after 50 meters, with the venue on the left another 200 meters along. Golf from here is generally played on Tuesday & Thursday, with the Resort hosting prompt presentations on both days. As a PSC affiliated venue we welcome ALL golfers, including ladies & seniors (>60s) who have opted for the “Silver” tee option. Call 089 253 5440 (Willem Lasonder) for scheduling or enquiries.
Results: Celtic Tiger 5 v 10 Country Road,
Bootleggers 4 v 11 Tequila Bar, OK Bar 9 v 6 New Country Road, San Snack
Bar 6 v 9 Woaw’s Pub, Rack Em Up 12 v 3 Aussie Ally’s, Candy Loca 12 v 3
Buddy’s Bar, Winner Bar 11 v 4 Lanna Bar
Pattaya United’s season hit two major road blocks in the space of four days last week as first they were knocked out of the Chang FA Cup following a 4-1 home defeat by Muangthong United and later at the weekend they were on the wrong end of a 4-2 scoreline against the defending league champions Buriram.
Pattaya United’s ‘Pinto’ Junior Negrao (9) hurdles over a challenge from Buriram United’s Andrés Tunez (5) during their Thai Premier League match at the Thunder Castle Stadium in Buriram, Sunday, July 17. (Photo courtesy Pattaya United)
The midweek Cup game against Muangthong at a damp Nongprue Stadium saw the Dolphins line up without several of their first team starters, including leading goal scorer Pinto Junior. The home team showed plenty of heart however and matched the Kirins for most of the game, scoring a last minute equalizer through Soony Saad to take the match into extra time.
The 30 minutes of additional time proved to be just too much for Pattaya’s young team though and as they began to tire, the visitors used their superior squad to full advantage. Teerasil restored Muangthong’s lead 13 minutes into the added period and further late strikes by N’Dri and Teerasil again gave the score a somewhat lopsided look at the final whistle.
Though United were now out of the Cup, the Pattaya players had shown plenty in this game to suggest that they could give Buriram a good run for their money at the weekend.
At the defending league champions’ Thunder Castle stadium last Sunday, the Dolphins got off to a dream start when Pinto Junior made up for his midweek absence by giving his side the lead in just the third minute of the match.
Buriram trailed for most of the first half before an equalizer by Bruno Moreira sent the teams in level at the break. Anon Amornlertsak put the home team ahead soon after the restart and an own-goal by Pattaya’s Thanasak Srisai compounded by the sending off of Suphanan seemed to swing the game decisively in Buriram’s favour.
Once again United showed great heart however and Junior pulled a goal back to narrow the score to 3-2. With the Dolphins pushing forward in search of an equalizer they were caught out and Anawin Jujeen scored to restore Buriram’s two goal cushion and seal the points for his team.
In the two matches against the top teams Pattaya showed that they could match the big boys, although winning is still an issue. United will be hoping for better results against lower level clubs in their upcoming fixtures, hosting Army on the 20th July followed by an away trip to BBCU four days later.
Thailand will send two Pattaya-based windsurfers to the Rio Olympics next month with hopes of bringing gold back to the kingdom.
Former Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome, the honorary president of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, announced July 15 that Nattapong Phonoparat and Siriporn Kaewduang-ngam will compete in the Aug. 5-21 games.
Former Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome (second left) presides over a meeting of the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, held July 15. Windsurfers Nattapong Phonoparat (left) and Siriporn Kaewduang-ngam (second right) will travel to Rio on July 25 to prepare for the Olympic Games.
Their respective men’s and women’s RS:X competitions will be held Aug. 8-18.
The pair will travel to Brazil with head coach Aran Homrareun on July 25 to acclimatize the athletes to the time zone, weather and competition site.
In addition to battling international competitors, the two Thais also face dual health threats.
Scientists have found drug-resistant super bacteria in Guanabara Bay, the sailing venue, due to the daily dumping of hospital waste and household raw sewage into the rivers and ocean. In addition, mosquitos carrying the Zika virus also pose a danger to athletes competing in this year’s Summer Games.
Although the scores on the day did not confirm it, the course was in pretty poor condition as the basic maintenance appears to have been disregarded since the last time the group played here. The fairways were in not bad shape but the rough was extremely rough in most areas and the greens were as usual very difficult to judge for length, due to the several different types of grass on them.
Jon Batty.
But with the fairways at least allowing some distance from the tee, some of the lower handicap golfers played better or within their handicap ranges.
Jon Batty was the best of them at two under handicap and but for one hole where he took a triple for zero points he would have been even better, but he still did enough to chalk up the win.
Chris Smith, returning for a quick trip from Bangkok where he is used to much better prepared courses, stuck to the task well by shooting a one under gross on the back nine to claim second place after winning a count back with a better 19 to 16 over John Tallett who was playing his last event prior to returning to sunny Blighty for a holiday.
Shuichi Kodaka took fourth just a stroke behind with Tom McCarthy in fifth and Larry Gibb in sixth one and two behind him.
Once again there were no 2s in the first division but Shuichi Kodaka cleared out the second division multi-rollover pot with his solo effort on C7, the 156 yard signature hole for the nine.
Wednesday, July 13, Pattana A & B (yellow tees) – Stableford
CSS 73
1st Jon Batty (8) 35pts
2nd Markku Tynell (22) 34pts
3rd Phil Groves (8) 33pts
4th Phil Cass (15) 33pts
5th Shuichi Kodaka (18) 31pts
6th Graham Davis (8) 31pts
On a completely different level as regards the quality of both the course and the maintenance levels, Pattana’s A and B courses with their par 73 rating provided an excellent day’s golf, although the scoring over the longer layout was not so good as the previous event.
Shuichi Kodaka.
Jon Batty was the winner again with a worse total of points, and ahead by the same single point, but much happier with his result having scored six three-pointers during the round on a much tougher course.
Markku Tynell took second place, finishing strongly through the inward nine and holding off the challenges of the third and fourth players who needed a count back to separate them, with Phil Groves coming out on top by a margin of 17 to 15 to leave Phil Cass in fourth spot.
Shuichi Kodaka continued with his steady form to take another podium placing in fifth, with Graham Davis losing out 16 to 17 in the count back.
There were no 2s in the second division but Phil Cass took the first division multi-rollover pool with his solo effort on the 167-yard A8 hole.
Friday, July 15, Phoenix Gold (Mountain & Lakes) – Stableford
CSS 72
1st Shuichi Kodaka (18) 37pts
2nd Markku Tynell (22) 37pts
3rd Phil Cass (15) 36pts
4th Phil Groves (8) 35pts
5th Graham Davis (8) 35pts
6th Neil Skilton (5) 33pts
The last chance to play the course prior to the King’s Cup and joint sanctioned PGA professional event between the Asian Tour and the European Tour, which starts on the 28th July, was taken up by most of the groups regulars although the course had been shortened dramatically as many of the white tees were roped off in preparation. That meant that the higher handicappers had a distinct advantage on many of the holes as they were all within reach. The next problem was the siting of the holes themselves, many of which had been placed only a couple of yards from the front of the green.
Shuichi Kodaka continued with his very steady play to take the top step after winning a count back with a stunning 23 to 17, which was a gross 40 and his best nine holes for many a moon.
Markku Tynell, who is also playing very well recently was the loser in that count back but was happy to take second place after starting well and slipping a bit on the final hole.
Phil Cass placed third after a good day that started well but which could have finished better.
Phil Groves won a count back for fourth over Graham Davis, scoring a better 16 to 15..
Neil Skilton found the whole course a little confusing as he took no more than a four-iron on the par 4s for the whole day, ending in sixth another couple of shots adrift.
The first division 2s pool was taken by Neil Skilton and the second division by Shuichi Kodaka, both scored on the 160-yards Lakes no. 7.
Note: The Haven golf group have now relocated to Soi Lengkee, on the corner of the road leading to the Vogue Hotel, where there are good parking facilities but sadly no room for club storage at present. Whilst the kitchen in being renovated, there is a limited range of food available, but the supply of beverages continues, at ice cold temperatures and the hotel section is in full swing.
If you would like to play with The Haven group, you can contact 094 465 5002 or call in to The Haven, 315/13 Soi Lengkee, situated between Third Road and Soi Buakhao. 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 8.15 on a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on the days that you wish to play. A schedule of courses to be played throughout the year can be found on the web site at www.thehaven-hotel.com.
As we draw nearer to the King’s Trophy taking place at Phoenix, the greater the activity preparing the course for the big event. The Mountain and Lakes nines certainly look good with thousands of evergreens being planted to add colour to the area but one fly in the ointment might be one or two greens, on the Lakes, particularly the first which resembles the coat of many colours very little grass and the bunkers are still knee deep in sand.
Kevin, Sel & John back at the Billabong.
Perfect weather conditions and a near empty course allowed three old codgers, headed by Graham Beaumont with Selwyn Wegner and William Macey in tow to walk the 18 holes in under three and a half hours. Not so many playing today as many of the regulars had registered to play in the PSC monthly on Tuesday.
Back at the Billabong, the man of many moving parts, Alan Bartlett, was adjudged the winner with 37 points, finishing comfortably ahead of Alistair Gall with 35 points in second. Graham-”I have not been well”-Beaumont was as mystified as his playing partners as to how he managed to scramble 33 points for third.
Not surprisingly at Phoenix, there were no ‘2’s.
Wednesday, July 13, Green Valley – Stableford
The index 1 first tee at Green Valley is hard enough but today there were additional hazards to negotiate. The area beyond the water is being filled in, which will make life a little easier for your first shot of the day – when they have finished. Today, not only did you have to reach the fairway with your drive but, with lorries of various shapes and sizes working in that area, your drive had to also miss the construction work going on. Brian Maddox was hoping that the driver of the lorry that had his ball as a companion would drop his ball by the green, but he was to be disappointed.
Happy Billabong lady golfers.
The course is looking good and the management must be offered our thanks for finding previously unexplored areas on the greens that have not been used before by the Wednesday crowd, but there is still further areas that remain undiscovered by the Billabong regulars.
We had 33 players today with Miss Som continuing her remarkable recent form with 38 points to finish in third behind Miss Sa who, unfortunately, missed out on the top spot on a count back to Miss Orn, both on 41 points.
Eight scores around the 34 mark for the men did not feature today, with Ted Gardner claiming fourth place with 35 points behind Kevin Hamilton who had 37. Kevin Wild again followed his wife, Miss Som, onto the podium for second place with 39 points. Last week they both finished first and there were some conjecture about what their routine might be before going to golf to encourage such consistency – and we will all have a go when we discover the truth. Sel Wegner was embarrassed about his score on Monday and felt he had to convince everyone that 22 points was just an off day by topping the charts with 41 points today.
Gentry Harrington (left) with Bob Philp.
Back at the Billabong, Miss Som went ‘Wild’ and rang the bell for the second week running, the check naturally being placed in Kevin’s bin, but not before Capt. Bob voiced his surprise that there were no 2s from the ladies – is that the first time ever – and only two ‘2’s from the men which came from Ian Middleton and John Fitzgerald.
Friday, July 15, Burapha – Stableford
What a day out at Burapha it was today playing C and D loops because the Pattaya Singha Open was being played on A and B loops. The place was packed to the rafters including the car park but we still got away a little earlier than our allotted tee time and were all finished in just over 4 hours – quite an achievement really and thank you to the starters.
The course is in magnificent condition with lush fairways and greens that are lightening fast – you couldn’t get a bad lie anywhere. There were some good scores and some a little ordinary with one golfer who could have gone around again and still wouldn’t have made 30 points if he doubled his score.
One team was standing on the 17th tee and all of a sudden a ball landed beside them on the tee block. Out of the rough came a golfer who was heard to say “That’s enough for me today”.
There were two ‘2’s today, coming from Helmut and Auke and because there were only 4 groups playing the prizes went down to third place which was won by Auke with a fine 37 points. Second place went to Bob Philp with 39 points, him being beaten by Gentry Harrington with a great 79 off the stick for 40 points.
A runner-up in last year’s Bangkok marathon, Noah Chepsergon of Kenya broke through the finishing tape on Pattaya Beach Road last Sunday morning to win the 2016 King’s Cup Pattaya Marathon in a time of 2:39:26 and thus continue the East African nation’s dominance of the event.
Fireworks explode across the sky as a multitude of runners, joggers and walkers cross the start line on Beach Road during the 2016 edition of the annual Pattaya City Marathon held in the early hours of Sunday morning, July 17.
Over 10,000 Thai and international athletes lined up at the start in front of Central Beach shopping mall in the early hours of Sunday, each with their own individual goals to accomplish. Young and old set to the city streets hoping to set personal bests or just merely to complete the course and all were roared on by enthusiastic spectators along the roadside.
Runners pose at the start line prior to the 2016 Pattaya marathon race.
Music, dancers and a cascade of fireworks set the scene as Gen. Chaklit Pong-amorn, president of the Athletic Association Thailand launched the full marathon (42 kilometers) at 03:30 am, followed by Maj. Gen Ampol Buarabporn, commander of Chonburi Police who set the half marathon runners away at 05:10 am and the quarter marathoners at about 05:20 am. Additional categories included the wheelchair marathon, which was launched at 05:30 am, and the fun-run at 06:30 am.
Runners set off in the half marathon race on Beach Road.
After completing the long, grueling course, Chepsergon was followed across the finish line by his compatriots Thomas Matheka Muli (2:41:22) and John Kipkorir Rutto (2:41:47) who locked out the men’s podium for Kenya. All three were presented with trophies, with Chepsergon taking home the prestigious HM the King’s Cup and 25,000 baht, while second place received 20,000, and third place 15,000.
Kenya’s Noah Chepsergon crosses the finish line to win the 2016 Pattaya Marathon, Sunday, July 17.
Another Kenyan athlete, Wachira Tabitha Wambui won the women’s marathon in a time of 3:10:11 and was followed over the line by Thailand’s Parichat Sathirasart (3:38:50).
The African dominance continued in the men’s half marathon which was won by Kenya’s Alex Melly in a time of 1:11:39 while the women’s half marathon saw Thailand’s Thanaporn Asawongcharoen fly the flag for the host nation as she crossed the line first in 1:31:44.
Noah Kutung Chepsergon and Wachira Tabitha Wambui are presented with the prestigious King’s Cup trophies after winning the men’s and women’s marathon races respectively.
Thai athletes were also crowned champions in the remaining categories as Natawat In-oom (36:33) won the men’s quarter marathon, Suwaree Thanaeknithiwat (43:21) took out the women’s quarter marathon and Amin Harai (15:21) crossed the line first in the wheelchair quarter marathon.
Thailand’s Natawat In-oom celebrates after winning the men’s quarter marathon.
This year’s Pattaya Marathon, held in honour of HM the King, once again proved to be a great success and furthered the city’s claims to be the nation’s number one sports and tourism destination by the sea.
Note: For more photos from this year’s Pattaya marathon, go to the Pattaya Mail website: www.pattayamail.com.
A young athlete tries to cool down after a hard race.
Near Pins: #2 Mike Johns, #6 Ebrahim, #13 Bernie McCart, #17 Ebrahim
Long Putts: #9 Stuart Mann, #18 Ebrahim
With only 12 starters on Monday and enthusiasm was high with the opportunity of taking a podium finish possibly at the front of people’s thoughts. We set out from The Swan with the weather looking as though it may stay on our side and excitement was in the air.
Mike Johns (left) with Stuart Mann.
Playing off the yellow tees the day seemed to have been a little tough from looking at the scores, but it is Treasure Hill, a very hard course that will test the best of golfers. With the narrow fairways and the odd tree being placed in the middle on a few occasions it is a tough test of golf. Fortunately the weather stayed with us and it turned out to be a good day to play.
Mike Johns came through with the best score for the day, his 38 points giving him top spot ahead of Ebrahim and Stuart Mann.
On return to The Growling Swan, Alex Field let D-For off his chain to collect donations, the Swan’s players and punters are a very generous bunch and keep giving to D-For. All are thanked for their continued contributions to assist the needy children of Pattaya.
Thursday, July 14, Khao Kheow – Stableford
A Flight (0-16)
1st Ian Pickles (13) 40pts
2nd Mike Johns (15) 38pts
3rd Mashi Kaneta (15) 37pts
B Flight (17-36)
1st Alex Field (22) 38pts
2nd Rona Carungay (24) 37pts
3rd Lindsay Slender (22) 35pts
Near Pins: A3 Mike Johns, A5 Lindsay Slender, B3 Ian Pickles, B8 John Anderson
Long Putts: 9th Chris Fletcher, 18th Ian Pickles
A field of 22 golfers headed out to Khao Kheow in overcast conditions. With no sign of any breeze it was quite humid, however with rain threatening we were happy to get a nice breeze about halfway through the round, which was most welcomed.
Course A followed by B was played, with the ‘pick, clean and place rule’ enforced as the course was quite damp. Given the recent rain, the fairways on the first nine we played were not really up to scratch but the greens however were in good nick for the most part.
Ian Pickle with Alex Field.
A Grade was won by first timer Ian Pickles with a fine 40 point score. Ian also picked up a nearest to pin and long putt to cap off a great day. Mick Johns recent improvement saw him amalgamate 38 points to fill second place, with Mashi Kaneta one point back in third.
B Grade was taken out by ‘Mr. Consistent’, Alex Field with 38 points. Rona Carungay was only one point back, and can be well pleased with her second placing. Uncle Lindsay Slender filled third spot with 35 points, and if his putter had not performed poorly it could have been 40!
Note: For serious golfing with a dash of fun (and compulsory sledging), the Growling Swan welcomes golfers of all persuasions. We generally play on Mondays and Thursdays at any one of the fine courses around Pattaya. We also encourage women to play. Please contact Peter Grey for bookings or any information on 086 1503 086.
The Growling Swan also caters to the bowls enthusiasts. Bus transport departs the GS on Sundays at 10.00 am for open grass bowling at The Retreat. The cost including return bus transport, bowling fees and a hot lunch is less than 400 baht so great value for a day out.
A fair sized Sunday crowd turned out to play our monthly medal at Green Valley. Overnight rains had left the fairways very wet with very little run meaning no carts on the fairways, so pick and place was the order of the day. Actually the course was otherwise in fine condition. A slight drizzle accompanied the lads all day which made life difficult on the course.
Back with a bang from his visit to the emerald isle was the ever smiling Co. Offaly gang leader Kevin Mcentee who took the medal for the month of July with a fine net 70. He also received a bottle of Jameson’s Irish whiskey, had his name etched on the Lewiinski’s hall of shame and a received a none transferable invite to play the gold medal to be held later in the year.
Kevin first had to better Marcus ‘the Virginian’ Earp in a count back, so bad luck to Marcus. A count back was also required to sort out the minor podium places between Bob St Aubin and Jimmy ‘two shots’ Elphick, the scales of justice tipping in Bobs Favour.
A congratulation to all the days’ winners as there was not a single wipe on any card.
Monday, July 11, Pleasant Valley – Stableford
1st Peter Henshaw (25) 37pts
2nd Ken Hole (16) 35pts
On Monday the numbers were a bit modest, no doubt due to the welcome back party for the ever smiling Kevin Mcentee at Lewiinski’s Sunday night. The challenge for the day for those who made the effort was the very challenging Pleasant Valley where any stray shot off the fairway is nearly always a lost ball.
The man who handled the conditions best and seems to be finding the answer to most courses in the area, was the red hot Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw who returned a rock solid 37 points for the man of the match honours, and was the only player to better par on the day. Peter was two strokes clear of the man who is always there or there abouts, Ken Hole
Wednesday, July 13, Crystal Bay C & B – Stableford
1st Kevin Mcentee (12) 43pts
2nd Marcus Earp (34) 40pts
3rd Tom Gorey (18) 35pts
Wednesday was a visit to the excellent Crystal Bay B & C layouts and the course, as always, was in excellent condition so a real test of golf was on the cards.
Sunday’s top man Kevin Mcentee took the days honour’s with a tremendous 43 points and in doing so relegated Marcus ‘the Virginian’ Earp to the runners up spot for the second time this week, even though Marcus carded an extremely good 40 points himself. Kevin’s mate from ‘the old sod’, Tom ‘the Irish rover’ Gorey rounded out the flight on 35 points.
Friday, July 15, Burapha C & D – Stableford
1st Marcus Earp (34) 33pts
2nd Alex Rousselis (21) 33pts
3rd Peter Henshaw (25) 29pts
Ken Hole practiced the adage “it is better to give than to receive” as he sponsored (as he has done in the past) the near pin awards and a long putt on his birthday. Ken’s generosity on the near pins was enjoyed by Hedberg Christer (C5 and D2), Jim Elphick (C8), and Marcus Earp (C8). The long putt on D9 was awarded to Jim Elphick.
Marcus Earp and Alex Rousselis both held sway on the day with 33 point returns as Marcus finally got to win a count back and stand atop the podium. Peter ‘you know who’ Henshaw got to close the podium with 29 points.
Back at Lewiinski’s it was party time as the gang wished Ken all the success for the future.
Note: Lewiinski’s is situated on Pattaya land Soi 1, Beach Rd Soi13/13 near Walking Street. Anyone wishing to play with us just pop in and add your name to the list or call Peter on 086 139 6301. Transport is provided.
