Results: Lanna Bar 5 v 10 Celtic Tiger, Buddy’s Bar 3 v 12 Winner Bar, Aussie Ally’s 4 v 11 Candy Loca, Woaw’s Pub 6 v 9 Rack Em Up, New Country Road 7 v 8 San Snack Bar, Tequila Bar 10 v 5 OK Bar, Country Road 12 v 3 Bootleggers.
Monday, July 18, Green Valley (white tees) – Stableford
1st Gary Emmett (17) 39pts
2nd Louis Ventimiglia (25) 36pts
T3rd Kevin Hamilton (17) 35pts
T3rd Mark Wood (7) 35pts
Summer solstice has passed and we are losing a couple of minutes of daylight every day. We had no alcohol at The Golf Cub for two nights this week as we celebrated Buddhist Lent and clean up our livers for a change. We still managed a good turnout for today as 20 golfers joined the comp.
Phil Smedley, Gary Emmett and Mark Wood.
Green Valley is in great condition these days and some say it has never been so lush. John and Jeff at the St. Andrews Golf Centre always look after us before and after the round so pop in to see them for lessons or equipment or a beer when you are there.
39 points was the best we could do out here today and the affable Aussie Gary Emmett rose to the occasion. We also said bon giorno to Louis Ventimiglia who is back with us for a 10 day stint, and Louis made his mark with a 36. Va Bene!
Kev Hamilton knows this course well and 35 points tied him with regular Mark Wood to share third place honours. Don’t forget Bob Catlow who got the Caddy Smile near pin out there on the testy 16th.
Wednesday, July 20, Pattaya C.C. (white tees) – Stableford
1st Bruce Miller (7) 39pts
2nd Louis Ventimiglia (25) 36pts
3rd Phil Smedley (14) 34pts
A departure from our regular schedule saw us with a last minute booking change to Pattaya Country Club for our comp. The course was well received by our 3 groups and reports from the lads noted it was in pretty good condition. As usual, the front nine played better than the back nine. The new clubhouse always has rave reviews and the food and drink are properly priced.
Capt. Phil found his way from fairway to podium today and 34 points were required for a third place slot. Not only that, he had the audacity to bag our Caddy Smile near pin as well! There was Louis V. (not Vuitton) again at the second tier as Lou shoots his handicap for 36 points.
Visiting from Oz and TGC house guest Bruce Miller ran away with first today as he finished 3 strokes ahead of the field with 39 points. Brucie is enjoying his stay with us, but we just need to get him out of bed in time for that 60 second commute to the van.
Friday, July 22, Eastern Star (yellow tees) – Stableford
T1st Steve Wentford (13) 36pts
T1st Wayne Martin (10) 36pts
3rd Lasse Pettersen (24) 32pts
We got the 2 fully loaded vans out right on time and set our sights south for the comp at Eastern Star. This is a Robert Trent Jones, Jr. golf course and an interesting layout. Unfortunately, the greens were still on the sandy side but like they say… same for everyone! Loads of putts went short today so scoring was mediocre at best, and that was playing from the yellow tees!
This can be a tough course if you let it, and those little fingers of water that invade from the sides are a good challenge. There are some stunning golf holes here and the fairways were in perfect nick. Weather on the day was quite nice and we had a good sea breeze to keep things cool.
Last week Steve Wentford had his best ever round in Thailand with a 43 at Khao Kheow, and now shared the win with his 36. Wayne Martin joined Stevie at the top level with Lasse Pettersen getting third place with a 32-point card.
Note: The Golf Club is located in the heart of Pattaya on Soi L.K. Metro. Just call 085 434 3377 or see our website www.golfclubpattaya.com and for more information mail us: pattaya4golf@gmail.com and see updates at www.facebook.com/golfclubpattaya… all handicaps welcome!
Dark cloud and rain filled skies on the way to Green Valley for our usual Sunday bash but it did nothing to dampen the spirits of the Lewiinski’s mob, quite the reverse in fact.
From left, Eddy Beilby with Aidan Murray and Peter Henshaw.
The man riding a purple patch, Co. Dublin’s Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw rolled back the years to take the man of the match honours and book a trip to the handicap committee with a brilliant 40 point masterpiece. Eddy ‘the Eagle ‘Beilby trailed Peter in to the barn with sound 38 points while Peter’s old mate from county Dublin, Aiden Murray, closed the podiumwith an impressive 37 points.
Tuesday, July 19, Pleasant Valley – Stableford
1st Marcus Earp (33) 41 pts
2nd Tom Gorey (17) 37 pts
3rd John Harrison (13) 36 pts
A fair crowd turned out today and made the trip to the short but very challenging Pleasant Valley Golf Club to play a stable ford comp. The weather was very hot and humid and the threat of rain was always present.
The course was not too busy and was in fine condition so it was all set for a good game. The scores were always going to be a bit mediocre until the Big Virginian, aka Marcus Earp entered the barn with a large smile and 41 excellent points to take the man of the match honours and put the recent run of count back defeats firmly behind him.
Tree shots adrift of Marcus was Tom ‘the Irish rover’ Gorey while third place on the podium was decided by a count back between John Harrison and Joe sat nav’ Tynan, both with fair even par rounds but the scales of justice leaned in John’s favour leaving Joe at sea level and potless.
Friday, July 22, Mt. Shadow – Stableford
1st Peter Henshaw (25) 41pts
2nd Marcus Earp (33) 39ts
3rd Derek Briton (30) 39pts
Mountain Shadow was the task at hand today and a fair Lewiinski’s gang found the course to be in good nick but the heat and humidity were also very high.
Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw finished the week as he started it by firing a round that easily beat his handicap again as his excellent 41 points was three shots clear of Marcus Earp and Derek Briton, with the resulting count back falling at last in Marcus’s favour as he settled for the silver.
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.
A seesaw week of golf for the group started out at the always welcoming Greenwood course which was suffering a bit following heavy overnight rain, and that restricted the carts to the paths only and triggered the automatic ‘lift and place’ in the fairways local rule. The heavy going had an effect on most of the field with just the leader able to match his handicap and the course playing a lot more than the 6,500 yards shown on the card.
To the benefit of the players and the detriment of the course management, the course was almost empty, which bodes ill for the future with many other local courses suffering from the same lack of golfers. One possible outcome could see a radical advance in the business plans of some of them with the caddy/greencarers situation being reviewed as they appear to be getting fewer and greener as the chances of the newbies getting a bag three times a week fade into a distant memory. A possible policy of no compulsory caddy, at least for the regular groups, and an increase of a couple of hundred baht on the green fee would see a win/win situation for both the golfers and the managements and a certain uptick in sales.
Graham Davis continues to perform around his handicap level and on this occasion it proved to be enough to win ahead of Mike Dabanovich, who could well have snatched it all away but for a scrappy finish which garnered him just five points from the last three holes and so having to settle for second place.
Phil Groves, although not getting back to his old form and level of golf, continues to appear regularly on the podium as he did once again in third spot, just one ahead of forth placed Tom McCarthy. Shuichi Kodaka took fifth also one in front of sixth placed Phil Cass.
There were no 2s in either of the divisions.
Wednesday, July 20, Khao Kheow A & B (yellow tees) – Stableford
CSS 71
1st Jon Batty (8) 39pts
2nd Mike Dabanovich (11) 37pts
3rd Phil Groves (9) 35pts
4th Phil Cass (15) 31pts
5th Jens Gunnarsson (12) 27pts
6th Serge Straeten (18) 26pts
Terry Hodgkiss.
What is usually the toughest course on the weekly scheduled turned out, on this occasion, to be the easiest with the CSS for the day dropping down a stroke as the course was found to be in absolutely great condition considering the amount of rain it had obviously absorbed during the week.
Jon Batty continues to enjoy a real purple patch of golf as he took the day’s top honours with a sparkling three under handicap return to win by two from the week’s bridesmaid, Mike Dabanovich, after the latter had finished strongly by taking ten points from the last four holes, but a couple of zeros earlier in the round did the damage to the card.
Phil Groves was again in the mix for the lower steps after playing several holes well, dropping a few points around the course but finishing well ahead of fourth placed Phil Cass.
Jens Gunnarsson got his first mention of this trip in fifth with Serge Straeten a point behind him after a very speckled round.
Once again there were no 2s in the first division, but Serge Straeten made his day almost worthwhile when he rapped in one from ten feet on the 168 yard B3 hole and which interestingly was playing so hard that nobody else even scored a three.
Friday, July 22, Pattaya C.C. – Monthly Medal
CSS 75 NC
Division 1 (0-15)
1st Graham Davis (8) net 78
2nd Phil Cass (15) net 80
3rd Trevor Schirmer (13) net 81
Division 2 (16+)
1st Terry Hodgkiss (25) net 75
2nd Markku Tynell (22) net 80
3rd Tom McCarthy (21) net 80
Jon Batty.
The toughest day of the week was left until the end when the monthly medals took place, with the two playoff spots available for the end of year Gold and Silvers in each division for first and second places. This was held at Pattaya Country Club as the usual Phoenix Gold venue was in the final stages of preparation for the King’s Cup to start the following week.
The course was severely affected by the weather which had seen rain storms over the area for the whole week, fortunately all during the night and early morning. Again a local ‘lift and place’ rule was in play but that did little to mitigate the difficulties that the players had to deal with throughout their rounds. The redesigned greens have certainly made the course a very different proposition, rewarding good placement on the greens but punishing heavily other weaker efforts.
Graham Davis was pleased to take the first division medal, although not playing up to his normal standard, as Phil Cass took second place and Trevor Schirmer doing very well to take third.
Terry Hodgkiss had the best return of the day against his handicap to win the second division well ahead of a count back for second, which Markku Tynell won over Tom McCarthy with a better 39 to 42.5 after Tom had looked like a likely winner after nine.
Once again there were no 2s in the first division but Tom McCarthy made up slightly for missing out for the playoffs with the sole one in the second division sinking a very nice putt on the 178 yard A5 hole.
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 but that is in hand. The kitchen renovations have now been completed and a full restaurant service is in operation and the supply of beverages continues, at ice cold temperatures with the hotel section 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.
Monday, July 18, Pattavia A &B (white tees) – Stableford
1st Rab McDonald (17) 30pts
2nd Geoff Parker (14) 30pts
Near Pins: Les Hall, Neil Carter, George Cooney.
Gerry Cooney.
Only six players turned out for this fine venue with its perfectly presented course of pristine fairways and well manicured greens. Our players elected to go off the white tees, which resulted in a course over 6,800 yards in length and made it very difficult to reach the greens in regulation.
One reason our members give this venue a miss is their buggy policy of “pay for 18 holes but you can only use on 14 as the first and last holes on each nine are no go zones.”
Rab McDonald did a fine job of holding Geoff Parker at bay, beating him on a count back on the final six holes by two shots.
Wednesday, July 20, Plutaluang (white tees) – Stableford
1st Geoff Parker (14) 33pts
2nd Jimmy Carter (14) 32pts
3rd Les Hall (23) 30pts
Near Pins: Les Hall, Geoff Cox, Jimmy Carr.
Only eight players today with many being put off by the heavy rains the previous night and the course advising us that no buggies off the pathways rule was in force. Despite having called before to enquire if the rate quoted had changed because it was a Buddha Day and being told that there was no change, on arrival we were charged the weekend rate and were told we had spoken to the wrong office when calling!
The course played long as there was no run on the ball and Geoff Parker beat Jimmy Carr by one point.
Friday, July 22, Eastern Star (white tees) – Stableford
1st Gerry Cooney (17) 33pts
2nd Rab McDonald (17) 31pts
3rd Geoff Parker (14) 31pts
Near Pins: Gerry Cooney (2).
Nine players travelled down Sukhumvit Road to a course that has blossomed after the recent rains and was back to its former glory. Not too much run on the fairways but the greens were good.
Gerry Cooney cleaned up on the day with a win and the only two near pins while many others were finding the going tough with some poor scores being recorded.
Note: The Bunker Boys play out of The M Club located 100 meters up Soi 14 off 3rd Road and no prior booking is required. We welcome new players who can merely turn up by 9.30 A.M. on any Monday, Wednesday or Friday and enjoy a game with us. Transport is arranged which departs at 10 A.M. for a booked tee time at 11 A.M. For inquiries contact Neil at Tel. 084 758 9907.
The Royal Varuna Yacht Club (RYVC) in Pattaya recently hosted a Summer Regatta from July 16–18, with over 80 sailors taking part including a contingent from Macau.
Optimist winning sailors: Jedtavee Yongyuennarn (left) with Intira Parnpiboon and Paliga Poonpat.
The largest fleet was the Optimist class with 51 boats and Jedtavee Yongyuennarn continued his momentum from the Optimist World Championships in Portugal earlier in July to take the overall crown. The silver and bronze medal positions went to Intira Parnpiboon and Paliga Poonpat respectively. The Optimist class is for upcoming youth sailors between 8–15 years old.
Suchakree Detthetsapol (left), winner of the 4.7 Laser class.
21 boats sailed in the adult monohull handicap class including 18 Laser Standards. An impressive nine races were sailed compared to the Optimist’s six races – buoyed on the extra power to break through the wind and current. Apriwat Sringam took the class honours after overcoming a strong battle from RVYC veteran Gareth Owen. YRAT’s Jarupong Meeyusamsen recorded third place overall.
Apiwat Sringam (center), winner of the Laser Radial class.
Arguably the Laser 4.7s was the most open fleet with close competitive action between all seven entries – any of the sailors were capable of winning a race. Consistency was key to winning and Suchakree Detthetsapol recorded the best series to win overall. Alex Frefel and Arthit Romanyk took second and third places respectively. The Laser 4.7 class is mostly sailed by teenagers between 14–16 years as the first step up after the smaller Optimist class.
The RYVC Summer Regatta was a test event for Optimist sailors before the Optimist World Championship that will be held at the RVYC from 11–21 July 2017.
Royal Varuna Yacht Club offers RYA accredited sailing courses for members and visitors. To experience sailing at Thailand’s best venue – visit website www.varuna.org or send an email to sailtraining@varuna.org.
(Photos provided courtesy of Ben Montgomery)
Lasers take to the water off Royal Varuna Yacht Club, Pattaya.Optimist sailors battle for position.The Macao team exchanges club pennants with RVYC vice commodore.
Wow what a finish it was to the Open, the best I can ever remember with both Phil Mickelson and Henrik Stenson not giving an inch. It was almost a shame that there had to be a loser but that is life I am afraid, someone has to win and someone has to lose, so well done Henrik and bad luck Phil.
Richard Talbot.
This of course is what sport is all about, it is why it is universally popular and it is why most of us even into old age still get a thrill out of taking part. Long may it be that way.
It was a Public Holiday in Thailand at the beginning of this week so that meant that the roads were chock-a-block and the bars were all empty (ban on sales of alcohol).
Perhaps all the people who are normally in the bars all decided to go for a drive instead, anyway chaos reigned. Talking of raining, boy did it chuck it down this week but only overnight so our golfers escaped a drenching. The courses however were a tad damp underfoot.
Monday, July 18, Pattana – Stableford
On Monday the TRGG got things up and running with a trip over to Pattana (B and C courses) and the previous week’s low scoring continued.
Peter Fagerland, on only his second outing with the TRGG, came up trumps and found that his 32 points was good enough to win the pot. Ted Senior is obviously still hitting the ball pretty straight and he just managed to better Craig McAvinue but only after a count back when they both finished on 30 points.
1st Peter Fagerland (20) 32pts
2nd Ted Senior (16) 30pts
3rd Craig McAvinue (14) 30pts
Tuesday, July 19, Burapha – Stableford
It was off to our usual Tuesday venue at Burapha (A and B courses) and this time it was our Road Runner Richard Talbot who had probably just jogged down from his teaching job in Bangkok to outpace all the other competitors. His excellent 37 points was far too good for second placed John O’Donoghue. Johnny of course has the excuse that he can’t move as fast since he retired from train driving. Mind you, he did plough up the fairways a bit driving his 40-tonne locomotive up and down.
John Baxter.
Derek Thorogood, who came in third, normally drives very straight and very conservatively but has always been prone to throwing in a quick right or left turn when no one was expecting it and ending up in a ditch somewhere.
1st Richard Talbot (17) 37pts
2nd John O’Donoghue (19) 36pts
3rd Derek Thorogood (13) 34pts
On Wednesday the TRGG decided that there had not been enough water around for their liking so paid a visit over to play Parichat where everybody was bound to find some water. The ball manufacturers I am sure sponsor this course and tales came back that for some the lost ball count topped double figures. Still, besides that, everybody seemed to enjoy themselves and even the guy who finished last said he would be happy to return.
John Baxter, who only last week was cut to a 15 handicap and who complained he couldn’t possibly play to something that ridiculously low, was right, but he still won the day with 33 points. Gavin Hunt had a real tussle with Jack Mooney for second place and it took a count back to separate them.
1st John Baxter (15) 33pts
2nd Gavin Hunt (11) 32pts
3rd Jack Mooney (19) 32pts
Thursday, July 21, Green Valley – Stableford
It was back to Green Valley on Thursday as per usual. For some time now we have had a mystery man who likes to travel incognito and changes his name on a regular basis to avoid detection. He is obviously a spy or some other underworld figure who occasionally steps out of the shadows to play a round of golf with the TRGG. Anyway, on Thursday and Friday of this week he cleaned up.
At Green Valley our mystery man finished well ahead of Timothy Dalton who once upon a time played James Bond of course. Was Tim really only playing golf or is he still with British Intelligence and is hot on our mystery man’s trail. Only time will tell but I thought I did detect a Beretta poking out of Tim’s shorts, well it was certainly something short and metallic looking. Richard Talbot was still running and he took third place. Needless to say there are no photos available of the winner.
1st Seil Peter (6) 37pts
2nd Tim Dalton (20) 34pts
3rd Richard Talbot (16) 33pts
Friday, July 22, Treasure Hill – Stableford
On Friday there was a last minute change of venue and it was over to play Treasure Hill (A and B courses) for our patrons. This was obviously to the benefit of our man of mystery as it obviously threw off his tail who was probably still waiting for him at Bangpakong. Anyway, he cleaned up for the second day running and took his winnings before disappearing back into the shadows. Ted Senior tried to hang on to his coat tails but just came up short. Ted, however, just got his nose ahead of Darren Stanton who finished on the same score but had to settle for third place.
1st Seil Peter (6) 32pts
2nd Ted Senior (17) 31pts
3rd Darren Stanton (15) 31pts
Good luck to all you golfers for the coming week and if you would like to play a round of golf with the TRGG please phone Derek Thorogood on 080 673 3118 or pop into the Valentines Guest House (Restaurant and Bar) in Soi Lengkee and add your name to the weekly lists which are posted on the notice board.
This is another course that is becoming a regular on our schedule. Not too far from Pattaya, it is a very fine layout of three nines and a clubhouse that is for me the best on any in the area. Of course it does not make it the cheapest – but here you get all that you pay for.
Dick Warberg (left) with Gerd Riedler.
On this day we had agreed a Tuesday sport rate with the course and had agreed to play on the Wednesday, and we had quite a good turnout.
At present it is raining all over the place and it only seems a few days ago everywhere was as dry as a bone. On the drive up there the roads were very wet and as we went via a ‘Mashi Route’ the back roads were deep in water in places and we even went through a flooded stream.
On arrival we were soon booked in and out to the first tee. The play for the day was to be the A & B nines and as it had rained so much, the carts were to be driven only on the cart paths. Not too bad if you hit the ball straight, or have a slice as a right hander, but can be a bit difficult if the ball is the other side of the fairway.
The course was wet and in some places very soggy, but all in all was in very good condition with lush fairways and greens that were fast and true. The major problem was that with the rain of late it got very hot and humid, still what a great day out.
George King and John Pirelle with one of BJ Holiday Lodge’s finest.
Round over it was back to home base and soon into the results. We had some good scores and as we were playing ‘Course Handicaps’ it was nice to see. The winner on the day was George King with a fine 39 points ahead of John Pirelle in second with 38. We then had Takeshi Hakozaki in third with 37 points ahead of a count back on 36 that saw John Anderson in fourth over Derek Brook and Dick Warberg.
Near Pins: Dick Warberg, Brian Parish, John Pirelle.
Friday, July 22, Mt. Shadow – Stableford
Time again for the Tropical Golfers to try their skills at Mountain Shadow, a scenic and deceptively tricky course with a couple of difficult par-3 holes and enough jungle and water to test even the best. Sixteen golfers met at the BJ Holiday Lodge to assemble and get their fill. Worries about the weather go daily this time of year, and hoping for the best we all set out.
Eventually, and we do mean eventually, all golfers made it to the correct course. Does that mean someone went to the wrong one? Our lips are sealed – for now, Dick. Nevertheless all were ready on the first tee in time.
During the round it went from cloudy, to just the slightest rain, to hot and sunny, and back to cloudy, something for everyone. Mt. Shadow is in good to excellent condition now. To look for faults, about 3-4 greens had patches and creeper weeds were too common, but for the most part fairways and greens were very good. No excuses there and the scores showed that, coming in pretty good for the number of golfers.
The top of the mountain showed Dick Warberg (CH 24) proudly displaying his 40 points. Dick is also on a runaway to be Golfer of the Month title. Stay tuned, two rounds to go including the Monthly Medal. Very near the peak was Gerd Riedler (9) with 38 off his impressive handicap, and moving down the slope was John Perrel (17) with 37, Mashi Kaneta (17) with a fine 36, and thanks to a long par 3, Alan Sullivan (11) with 35 points. Congrats to all.
Near Pins: Gerd Riedler, John Pierrel, Alan Sullivan.
The Royal Varuna Yacht Club (RVYC) based in Pattaya has been chosen as host venue for the prestigious Optimist World Championship 2017. Home to Thailand’s first national championships over half a century ago and with experience hosting major international regattas, RVYC was voted as the ideal sailing venue by international delegates for next year’s world-renowned IODA World Optimist event. The Optimist World Championship 2017 takes place from July 11-21, 2017.
Royal Varuna Yacht Club offers an ideal location and first class facilities for this major sailing event.
Located on a secluded cove between Pattaya and Jomtien, the RVYC promises the young talented international sailors some exhilarating and enjoyable races with prevailing south-westerly winds adding real excitement.
RVYC Commodore, Tom Whitcraft is looking forward to adding to the club’s calendar of events. “We are extremely proud at RVYC to have the opportunity to host the Optimist World Championship 2017 and showcase Thailand as a great venue for International sailing events. We had our first Optimist World Championship here at RVYC back in 1979 and it is great that RVYC has been chosen again. With a year to go it is countdown to a great sailing event. We are really lucky in Thailand to have good weather for sailing all year round and more than our share of fair winds.”
Young sailors from 60 counties worldwide will be competing in Pattaya at the Optimist World Championship 2017.
Aside from its location, the RVYC facilities are second-to-none at the club with easy access for launching from a secluded beach and lawn area. Visiting sailors can enjoy the stunning setting with beautiful beaches an on-site clubhouse restaurant, sunset beach bar and salt-water pool, as well as accommodation.
Prior to the Optimist World Championship 2017, RVYC will be hosting an Eastern Seaboard Regatta from October 22–24, 2016; The Admiral’s Cup from February 17–19, 2017; and a Test Event for the Optimist World Championship from April 13–16, 2017 during Thailand’s Songkran water festival.
The Optimist World Championship event is expecting over 250 competing athletes coming from 60 counties worldwide creating a cosmopolitan international atmosphere at the RVYC and surrounding area. Tom Whitcraft applauds the talents of the competitors.
“Sailing is a great sport for all ages and skill levels from beginners to world class competitors, but we are particularly proud to support our youth sailors.”
Thailand’s Sattaya Supupramai overcame a stiff neck in the morning before going to post a seven-under-par 63 to take the first round lead at the King’s Cup presented by PTT Group on Thursday.
Italy’s Francesco Laporta also enjoyed a promising start at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club when he opened with a 65 to grab a share of second place with India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar and Tom Johnson of the United States.
Sattaya Supupramai.
Singapore’s Mardan Mamat, who finished tied-second at the 2012 edition of the King’s Cup, was among the five players bunched in equal fifth place on matching 66s while Major winner Trevor Immelman of South Africa posted a 69 to stay six shots back of Sattaya in tied-32nd place at the US$750,000 event at the US$750,000 event.
Sattaya, who has won thrice on the Asian Development Tour (ADT), got off quickly by cruising ahead with four birdies in his opening six holes.
“I’m very pleased with how I played today. Actually I woke up with a very stiff neck this morning and felt really uncomfortable.
“The physios did a great job with their massages and I felt really good after that,” said Sattaya.
The Thai’s only blemish would come at the par-four nine, which is widely regarded as the toughest hole at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club.
“The pin positions were tough and it would be extremely difficult to make a recovery if you hit a bad shot here.
“I knew that was a tough hole. I drove it into the rough and was already telling myself I had to move on quickly after that bogey,” said Sattaya.
The 32-year-old stormed back with a vengeance after the turn by returning home comfortably with an inward-31, highlighted by another four birdies on holes 10, 11, 14 and 16.
‘I’ve played on this course on a few occasions so I have a bit of local knowledge which can be advantageous. I just got to stay relaxed throughout the week and it should be okay,” said Sattaya.
Laporta also enjoyed a good opening day despite having to adjust to life as a rookie on the European Tour.
“It’s tough being a rookie. I played on the Sunshine Tour for the last three years but I haven’t played that well this year. This is my first year and I’m sure it’ll get better,” said the Italian.
Laporta did not display any signs of nerves when he started out on the back-nine 10.
He reached the turn in 32 and after dropping his only shot on the second hole, the Italian recovered gallantly by firing another three birdies on holes three, four and six.
“The driver was nice and the putter was very good too. I really enjoyed the day. It was a little hot but fun. I managed it well by drinking lots of water,” said Laporta.
Bhullar is meanwhile determined to work on his putting as he believes that will be the key to victory for him this week.
The five-time Asian Tour winner also marked his card with five birdies, one eagle and two bogeys for a 65 but felt he could have posted an even lower score.
“I’m going to work on my putting as that will be the one aspect that separates the winner from the rest of the field here.
“I’m not really satisfied as I could have done better. But I’ll definitely take it as I’m playing on this golf course for the first time and it’s really treacherous especially the greens,” said Bhullar.
Mardan also stayed in contention for his sixth win on the Asian Tour with his first round 66.
The Singaporean finished tied-second alongside defending champion Thaworn Wiratchant in 2012 and is hopeful of improving on that result, which is also his best finish at the King’s Cup which is making its return to the Asian Tour Schedule after a year’s absence.
“I’m happy I managed to get the swing back and I hit the ball very nicely from tee to green. I managed to hole some putts which were the key.
“This is not an easy course. Some of the pin positions are really difficult. If I can continue what I’ve been doing today, it should be a good week,” said the 48-year-old.
Pattaya Country Club was the challenge for today, just a short trip down route 36 and after an easy check-in we were off the first tee 20 minutes early under partly cloudy skies and some light winds. The course was in good condition and the greens are some of the best around.
Mark West was the runaway winner today with a fine 40 points and was followed up the podium steps by Kaj Aabling in second and Dave Richardson third.
Near Pins: #5 Bob St Aubin, #8 Peter Henshaw, #12 Kevin Hamilton, #16 Eddy Beilby.
Marcus Earp (center) with Barry Copestake (left) and Peter Henshaw.
Bob St. Aubin kindly decided to sponsor the par threes for this Sunday’s bash at Green Valley and his generosity on the near pins was enjoyed by himself on Hole 5, though he did not claim his prize. Peter Henshaw, Kevin Hamilton and Eddy Beilby were the other near pin winners.
Thirty nine points was the winning score on the day as Marcus Earp and Barry ‘the boot’ Copestake shared the match honours, both tied on that number and locked in mortal combat. Marcus took the count back while Baz was in a trance.
Marcus and Barry were two shots clear of a man we don’t see enough of, John Dearden (hope I have spelt his surname correctly.) The man who never misses the podium, Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw closed the flight with 34 points.
Monday, July 25, Greenwood A & C – Stableford
1st Marcus Earp (34) 47pts
2nd John Harrison (14) 41pts
3rd Robert Baird (33) 41pts
The task for today was a trip to the always popular Wolveridge and Thomson designed Greenwood. The course was in reasonable nick considering the amount of rain we have had to deal with lately.
Well you did not have to wait long for the title guy’s story to emerge. The big Virginian, Marcus Earp, was man of the match for his second win in as many games as he posted a fantastic 47 points; let’s hope Marcus can keep this up as his new handicap will demand it.
The trailing pair of John Harrison and Robert Baird, both with excellent scores of 41 points, were happy when they walked off the course but sad when the results were announced. And it got rougher for Robert, as he lost out on the count back to John
Wednesday, July 27, Plutaluang N & W – Stableford
1st Marcus Earp (32) 45pts
2nd Ken Hole (17) 37pts
3rd Matt Cronin (17) 36pts
A small but high quality field took to the road to play the very popular Royal Navy Plutaluang course. The layout was wet and the threat of rain was always there so it was a surprise to see such good scores on the day.
Marcus Earp made it a very profitable week with this his third win in as many games as he amassed an amazing 45 points to totally destroy the field, hitting the ball long and straight it was super golf.
Marcus was eight strokes clear of second placed Ken Hole while three players were knotted on solid even par rounds; Irishman Matt Cronin, Merle Humphreys and Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw and when the mud had settled it was Matt who got to stand on the podium while Merle and Peter were left at sea level and potless.
Friday, July 29, Parichat – Stableford
1st Peter Henshaw (25) 41pts
2nd Jim Elphick (24) 36pts
Parichat International Golf links was the challenge for the lads today and following a quick check-in we teed off about five minutes ahead of schedule in overcast but hot and humid conditions. The course on the day was in fine shape with fast and firm greens and we managed to get round in about four and a half hours.
The winner on the day and man of the match was Peter ‘the silver surfer’ Henshaw who posted a splendid 41 points. Peter was five strokes clear of his good friend and business partner Jimmy ‘two shots’ Elphick.
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.
When I originally retired here, one of the first things I did was to buy a year’s membership at Pattaya Country Club. This course used to have the best fairways of any in the area and despite it being run from a temporary clubhouse it was a very friendly, if visually uninspiring golf venue. Slowly however, the fairways became not as good, in fact quite average, and we started to use the course much less.
Dave Nicholson (right) and Dick Warberg (left) pose with Lek from BJ’s Holiday Lodge.
At BJ’s we usually booked this course as a Friday venue so I had not played it for some years, in fact since before the new clubhouse came into use, so it was with great interest that I made the pilgrimage there on this day. As all know, it is but a hop and a skip up there and I was surprised to see the drive up to the new clubhouse. Quite impressive!
The changing rooms were also impressive, and with the deal at the moment it was a fine start. Soon off, it was a pleasure to play a course I used to play regularly at one time. The fairways are not bad now, but they used to be super, however the greens were really good and as fast and true as any we have played in the last few weeks.
Some changes have been made, such as the par three up the hill, always difficult it is now a bit of a monster. However the course is well worth a visit now and the best thing is that you sit in the restaurant and see some of the golf course. Overall it was a most enjoyable day out.
We were back at BJ’s really early and so could declare the results at a time of day we have not done for a long time. The winner on the day was Graham Buckingham with a very fine 41 points. In second was the scribe, Derek Brook, with 38 points ahead of a count back on 37 that saw Jerry Garcia in third and Tom Herrington in fourth.
Near Pins: Derek Brook, John Hackett, Mashi Kaneta, Dick Warberg.
Friday, July 29, Greenwood – Medal
It was another daily double for the Tropical Golfers as both the Monthly Mug and Golfer of the Month were up for grabs. Dick Warberg had a commanding but not insurmountable GOM lead going into the final day, and the Monthly Mug was open to anyone with steely nerves to brave a round of stroke play. That means count them all folks! Real golf. With nineteen golfers up to the challenge, after filling up at BJ’s Holiday Lodge it was off to Greenwood.
Graham Buckingham (left) with Derek Brook.
Greenwood is about the longest drive on the regular rotation so the question always comes up, is it worth it? The answer is a resounding “Yes”. The price is reasonable, course condition was good to excellent, and the greens were true and fair. No gimmicks here. If one searched for an issue they have too many creeping weeds that need pulling, but that was about it.
We were blessed with a dry but mostly cloudy day that kept things a little cooler. Recent rains have left the fairways a bit slow, so we opted for the yellow tees, but lift/clean was not necessary. Stroke play is interesting, unpredictable, and with so much up for grabs the anticipation was great.
First there was the issue of the Monthly Mug. Sometimes people just find the zone, and in this case Dave Nicholson (H/cap 18) was in total command of his nerves and golf swing. When the math was done Dave had an incredible net 65! That is no type-o, he played that well and made it look easy. So Dave hoisted his first Monthly Mug and big cheers for him! Next came newbie Alex Field (21) with a fine net 68, followed by Barry Elphick (29) with net 69, and then John Anderson (30) and Don Carmody each with net 71.
It was then time to figure who had the best overall month of golf. Dick Warberg had a good lead, but a few challengers had a chance to rain on his hopes. It was not to be for the hopefuls though as Dick actually increased his lead on the final day is the July BJ’s Holiday Lodge Golfer of the Month! Take no chances, take no prisoners, right Dick? Much thanks to Lek and Bill for sponsoring this event each month.
Near Pins: Brian Parish (2), Takeshi Hakosaki, John Pierrel.
On an overcast morning 23 golfers headed out from The Growling Swan to tackle Eastern Star GC. This is a course that we do not play that often so the challenge was on.
Monthly Mug winner Patrick Poussier (right) with Stuart Brown.
The weather was quite balmy and with plenty of cloud cover it was a little unpleasant. The greens were in superb condition, fairways were slow to start but as the day got longer they dried out and some run was obtained.
We played from the back markers, which unfortunately does not agree with all but as we have such a broad range of golfers it is important to keep all happy. We played two divisions with all novelties prizes in play.
Mashi Kaneta (right) & John Anderson.
Scores were quite good with Mashi (in A Flight) leaving the rest in his wake with a great score of 40 points. Second and third spots were filled by Ebrahim and John Edwards. B Flight saw John Anderson taking top spot, with second and third places taken up by Patrick Poussier and Rona Carungoy.
A Flight
1st Mashi Kaneta (16) 40pts
2nd Ebrahim Al-Ansari (16) 37pts
3rd John Edwards (15) 35pts
B Flight
1st John Anderson (26) 37pts
2nd Patrick Poussier (28) 36pts
3rd Rona Carungoy (24) 34pts
Near Pins: 3rd Niall Stuart, 6th Stuart Mann, 13th Rocky Lawson, 17th Ebrahim.
Long Putts: 9th Geri Crilly, 18th Mark Stapleton.
Thursday, July 28, Pleasant Valley – Monthly Mug
An impressive field of 27 golfers headed out to Pleasant Valley on a cloudy morning. With no sign of any breeze it was quite humid. The course was in quite good condition, especially given for its reputation for being wet underfoot on occasions.
A Grade was won by Stuart Brown whose 80 off the stick gave him a fabulous net 66. One shot back was Glenn Henriksen with an excellent net 67. Peter McDonald filled third spot by way of a count back from Mike Gosden, with both golfers carding fine net 69’s
B Grade was taken out by way of an outstanding net 64 score from Patrick Poussier, who capped off his great round by sinking the longest putt of the day on the 18th green. Rona Carungay was rewarded with her consistent attendance, filling second place with a solid net 73. She won on a count back from curly Kevin Smith. Fourth placing was filled by Stuart Mann with a net 74.
So Patrick Poussier’s fine round was enough to see him become the latest Growling Swan winner of the Monthly Mug. Tr่s bien Patrick!
Two lucky draws were carried out, with Mashi Kaneta winning the accommodation prize at Koh Chang, kindly donated by Ian Parry, with Kevin Smith winning the dining voucher at the popular Third Road restaurant “Bite Me”. The voucher is sponsored by The Growling Swan Golf Club. I ate there last week and it was brilliant (at Peter Grey’s expense.)
Many thanks to our sponsor for the day Steve Younger – his support is well appreciated.
A Flight (0-20)
1st Stuart Brown (14) net 66
2nd Glenn Henriksen (12) net 67
3rd Peter McDonald (17) net 69
4th Mike Gosden (18) net 69
B Flight (21-36)
1st Patrick Poussier (28) net 64
2nd Rona Carungay (24) net 73
3rd Kevin Smith (29) net 73
4th Stuart Mann (20) net 74
Near Pins: #5 Stuart Brown, #8 Steve Younger, #13 Mashi Kaneta & Lindsay Slender, #17 Ian Parry
Long Putts: #9 Lorraine Percy, #18 Patrick Poussier
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. On a sad note Albert, who was the owner and operator (until sold recently) of The Retreat Bowling Green, unfortunately lost his battle and passed away on July 28. R.I.P. Albert.
Another day dawned and a throng of golfers descended on the Greenwood course for the July PAGS tournament held on Tuesday last week. The day’s field of 79 players, which included 9 ladies, had to contend with the course seeming to play long, due to the damp conditions, which required ‘lift, clean & place’ being implemented. We played the C & A combination, having been a full year since we were last here for a PAGS tournament.
Mike Allidi – Low Gross winner.
Mike Allidi (H/cap 3) shot a great round to win the Low Gross with a fine 73, while his score of 38 points was also good enough to pick up third spot in the A Flight net, to go with a technical as well. Equal best scores of the day went to the A flight winner, Peter Gulberg (9) with a fine 40 points, to edge Ian Parry (10) into second spot on a count back that went to the last 6 holes, 14/12, after both had 21 on the back 9.
The Ladies winner was Nantaporn Rukkid (15) with an even par 36 points.
B flight for handicaps 14 – 20 required no count backs this month, with John Fenwick (19) on 37 points the clear winner. Last month’s winner, Simon Dutton (16) did enough to get second spot with 33 points, while Neil Fidele (20) was a surprised recipient of third prize with his 31 points, (surprised, but grateful).
Peter Gulberg – A Flight winner.
In the C flight, for handicaps 21+, there was a clear winner in the form of Laurent Bertogliata (23) with a solid 37 points, while the minor places again required count backs; Louis Ventimiglia (23) just getting the better of Craig Muldoon (22) 18/16 on the back 9 holes after both had signed for 31 points each.
Again this month I will throw out a few honourable mentions, to Ken Price, Gerd Riedler, Uwe Wegner & Jerry Sweetham who each picked up the maximum 2 technical prizes, well done to all.
Dave and his team once again did a tip top job in the tucker department, with plenty of non golfers coming along to enjoy the social atmosphere of the evening with their golfing partners, family & friends. As always, there is only 1 person to blame if you go home hungry from The Lion Pub after a PAGS presentation.
We look forward to next month’s event back at Phoenix on 30 August, as I am sure all who have experienced the PAGS organisation and hospitality do. Contact Shane on 085 945 9689 to ensure your preferred tee time.
Near Pins: Neil Carter, Jimmy Carr, Rab McDonald (2).
A small turnout for our game of Rainbow Stableford where everyone selects 6 holes to play off the blue, then 6 off the yellow and lastly 6 off the red tee markers. Careful selection of holes enables the long hitters to tee off the red markers on the par 5’s, turning them into possible birdie holes and scoring maximum points while not worrying too much at teeing off the blue markers on the par threes. An interesting game of strategy which had some interesting applications.
Jimmy Carr.
The winner Rab McDonald chose the first 6 holes off blue and the next 6 off yellow, leaving the final 6 off the reds. Since the top three players all finished on 35 points with 20 on the back nine the strategy had worked and Rab won the count back on the last 6 holes, while Jimmy won the count back with 4 points on the last hole to Peter’s 2 points.
The course was in good condition with the greens fairly quick and very good value for money during this promotional period.
Wednesday, July 27, Crystal Bay B&C (white tees) – Stableford
1st Geoff Parker (15) 35pts
2nd Peter Allen (29) 34pts
3rd PJ Redmond (27) 34pts
Near Pins: Jimmy Carr, Gerry Cooney.
10 players made the trip to Crystal Bay and despite heavy overnight rain, which left a few bunkers water logged, the course was in really excellent condition.
The wily old veteran Geoff Parker, sensing the possibility of another GoM, came out the winner with 35 points. Peter Allen, after missing second place on count back on Monday, made amends and took second with 34 points, turning the tables on PJ Redmond in third.
With one game to go the GOM race was heating up with three players in contention separated by only one point and our next game would be the decider.
Friday, July 29, Treasure Hill (yellow tees) – Stableford
A Flight
1st Geoff Cox (15) 38pts
2nd Neil Carter (15) 33pts
3rd Colin Gregg (12) 32pts
B Flight
1st PJ Redmond (27) 40pts
2nd Les Hall (23) 33pts
3rd Peter Habgood(23) 28pts
Near Pins: PJ Redmond (2), Les Cobban, Tony Robins.
A good turnout of 18 players turned out for the trip up the 331 and they were rewarded with a fine course with fast greens and the most affordable green fees in the region.
This was the final day to determine who would win Golfer of the Month and the three contenders set out with high hopes, only to have the hopes of two crushed as they were unable to secure a high enough finish to take the trophy off Jimmy Carr who won by 1 point after recording 5 second place finishes during the month to go with his one win, giving him 55 points out of a possible 60.
However this should not detract from the fine result of PJ Redmond who managed to beat his handicap by 4 points with a display of his mastery on the putting greens. Geoff Cox continued his fine run of form by winning the A Flight, bettering his handicap by 2 points.
At the M Club that evening PJ Redmond celebrated his win by buying a round of drinks, closely followed by the free drinks congratulating Jimmy Carr on his win of GOM.
Note: The Bunker Boys (affiliated member of the PSC) organizes friendly competitions every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and plays out of The M Club located 100 meters up Soi 14 off 3rd Road and no prior bookings are required. We welcome new players who can merely turn up by 9.30 a.m. and enjoy a game with us. Transport is arranged which departs at 10 a.m. for a booked tee time at 11 a.m. For inquiries contact Neil at tel: 084 758 9907.
Legends Pool and Sports Bar was the venue for the 3rd annual Pattaya Charity Pool tournament in aid of the Father Ray Foundation, held on Tuesday, July 26.
Phisut Saekhu, vice president of the THA E, Father Pichan Jaiseri, vice chairman of the Father Ray Foundation, Damrongkiert Pichitkarn, secretary of the Industrial and Tourism Association and Andy Narine, managing director of the Legends Pool and Sports Bar were joined at the tournaments opening ceremony by a large number of pool players and enthusiasts together with a healthy crowd of spectators.
The top three players, Elias (centre), Anucha (second left) and David Bell (second right) pose with their trophies at the conclusion of the 3rd annual Pattaya Charity Pool tournament.
The competition was open to all pool players, both amateurs and professionals, and utilized a knockout format to whittle the field down and find the eventual champion. Registration cost 2,000 baht with a large percentage of the entrance fee going to help the day to day running of the Father Ray Foundation. Tournament T-shirts were also on sale for 200 baht each with the proceeds also going into the charity pot.
Action from the knockout stages of the pool competition.
The winner of this year’s tournament was Mr. Elias (surname withheld) who was presented with the honourable trophy by Poramet Gnampichet, former MP of the Palangchol Party. The beaten finalist and runner-up was Mr. Anucha and third place went to England’s David Bell.
It was yet another successful event that raised money for a great cause. All who took part appeared to have a great time and will be looking forward to the next tournament in 2017.
Low cost flyer Air Asia, in co-operation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and Refill Marathon & Lifestyle Magazine held a special running weekend to help promote tourism in the eastern region of the kingdom.
Athletes and officials pose at the start line prior to the Asia Active Fly Fun Run 2016 at U-Tapao International Airport, Saturday, July 30.
The Air Asia Active Fly Fun Run 2016 took place at U-Tapao International Airport on Saturday, July 30 and encompassed a 10km mini marathon and a 5km fun run. Over 500 male and female runners from local areas and overseas joined the activity.
The winner of the 10km race was Sanchai Namkhet who received a trophy and a special cash award of 10,000 baht for completing the course in less than 35 minutes. Thomas Muli and Hillary Kipchuba Kimutai, both from Cameroon, took second and third places respectively while Thailand’s Nattawuth Innum crossed the line in fourth.
The following day, July 31, a second running event was held at Lem Mae Pim Beach near Rayong with again a choice of 10km and 5km courses available to athletes. Air Asia donated a special prize of a free domestic air ticket valid for 1 year to the runner posting the best overall combined time from the 2 events.
If it were an away match, Pattaya United’s players would probably be asking for the goalpost and crossbar diameters to be checked by the officials. Even Chainat’s coach conceded afterwards that the visiting Hornbills were a little fortuinate after seeing the efforts of several Dolphin players ricochet off the post and crossbar in the two teams’ Thai Premier League encounter in Pattaya last Sunday, July 31.
Pattaya United’s Spanish defender Fran González (27) carries the ball forward against Chainat FC during the Thai Premier League match at the Nongprue Stadium in Pattaya, Sunday, July 31. (Photo courtesy of Chainat FC)
Both teams started scrappily but Pattaya soon got into their stride, dominating play and getting off several shots on target. The pressure paid off as the Dolphins took the lead through Supravee’s beautiful strike into the top right corner of the Chainat goal in the 25th minute.
The Hornbills dangerous forward, Sinama Pongolle was being well marshaled by the Pattaya defence but eventually he did make an impact, equalizing via a disputed penalty on the half hour mark and then putting the visitors into the lead 2 minutes before the half time break. It was a cruel blow to United who had dominated for most of the half.
Pattaya pressed forward after the break and saw several goal bound efforts cleared off the line or denied by the woodwork. They had to be wary however of the dangerous Chainat counter attacks and it was through one such move in the 63rd minute that the Hornbills increased their advantage as Pongolle’s shot rebounded off Patiwat and fell fortuitously at his feet of Sho who tapped in from 3 yards out.
With United camped in the Chainat half and getting more desperate for a goal, the visitors finally put the game out of reach in the 84th minute via another lightning counter attacking move that saw Sho score his second goal of the match.
Two minutes later Pattaya defender Jae Ho succeeded where his forwards had faltered as he connected with a corner kick to make the score 2-4 but it proved to be too little too late for the Dolphins.
With 9 games remaining, United need at least 5 more points to stay safe of relegation zone but they still have an outside chance of a top 10 finish. The Dolphins’ next game is away to Super Power Samatprakon on the 6th August.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang realised his dream of winning his first Asian Tour title after a final round three-under-par 67 saw him lift the King’s Cup last Sunday.
Having already won five times on the Asian Development Tour (ADT), Chan knew a victory on the Asian Tour was long overdue and was clearly ecstatic when he compiled a four-day total of 12-under-par 268 to win the US$750,000 event by two shots.
Chinese Taipei’s Chan Shih-chang lifts the King’s Cup trophy after winning the jointly sanctioned Asia and European Tour tournament at Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club in Pattaya, Sunday, July 31.
Compatriot Lin Wen-tang was also all smiles despite finishing second with a 66 at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club.
Thailand’s Danthai Boonma came close to retaining the King’s Cup on home soil but faltered after a closing 64 left him three shots back of Chan where he would finish tied-third with England’s Mark Foster.
Victory was especially sweet for Chan as he became the second player from Chinese Taipei after Chan Yih-shin in 2009 to win the King’s Cup.
The 30-year-old also dashed the hopes of the local faithful as the King’s Cup will not be kept on home soil for the first time since 2009.
“It was a close battle all the way until the 16th when I knew I had a chance. Words cannot describe how I felt when I sank that last putt. It has always been my dream to win on the Asian Tour and I did it today,” said Chan.
Chan was aware that a win would not be a straight-forward affair especially at the start of the day when he was battling neck-to-neck with England’s Eddie Pepperell.
It was only when Pepperell dropped five shots in his last four holes that Chan knew a victory was in sight.
“I was actually feeling very nervous when I started my round. I knew it would be a very close fight as there was little separating the leaders at the start of the day. I told myself to play my own game and not look at the leaderboard too much so that I’ll not feel so nervous.
“The greens were very challenging this week and it was important for me to get most of my shots onto the fairway. I did most of that today,” said Chan.
Lin, a six-time Asian Tour winner, came close to adding another title. But despite falling short, he remained sanguine about his game.
“If I was destined to win this week, I would be holding the trophy now. But that’s golf. It has been a great week and I cannot ask for more,” said Lin.
“I thought I had a good chance coming in as I was really hitting the ball very well. But it’s okay, there will be another time for me again,” he added.
Danthai surmounted a late charge that kept the home crowd on the edge of their seats. He stormed towards the turn with a 31 and continued his birdie blitz with three birdies in his next four holes after the turn. However he ran out of steam after that and a bogey on 16 dented all hopes of another local winner.
“I’m very pleased with how I played today although I felt let down by those two bogeys on five and 16. When I eagled six, I felt like my game was back on track and I was ready for the charge.
“I did that right until 13. I could not find any more birdies after that and that bogey on 16 all but left me out of the running for the title,” said Danthai.
