The Bunker Boys' Press Archive
Here we have all the press reports for 2003
January 2003
Nowell & Pearson Start in Style
The Pattaya Golf Society chose the magnificent course at Khao Kheow for
their first fixture of the New Year on Friday, 3rd January. The course was well
presented, as usual, and the large group of Bunker Boys shook off their celebrations
and tackled the breezy A and B courses in energetic style. Two of the Bunker
notables, Mr Loy and John Preddy, decided to sit this event out but all the
other regulars were there with Des Pearson smiling his way to the top of the
division two list firing 35 stableford points, two ahead of Mikael Andersson,
who was a further three points ahead of Blair Newton and Colin Morgan, jostling
in the same playing group. Division one saw a tighter duel with Steve Nowell
eventually holding out to win with 34 points, just heading off the attentions
of John King and Bob Morrison with 33 points. The first Bunker Super Sawng
award of the year went to Colin Morgan and Bill Macey for their birdie two's.
For the second successive round poor Jim Payne picked up the Bunker Banana
Booby, thereby breaking one of his New Year resolutions. He apparently found
problems coming to terms with the wind, but don't we all after the seasonal
celebrations!
Experience and Consistency are the Keys at Green Valley
The Bunker Boys' first two day event of the year was held at beautiful
When You've Gotta Go, You've Gotta Go
What a predicament! Imagine this scenario. You are organising a quiet visit
of about 25 people to play the relatively easy local course at
Results:
Division One: 1. Kevin Smith net 67; 2. Bert Guy net 69; 3. Bill Hewitt net
70.
Division Two: 1= Kevin Sheppard and Norm Robinson net 69; 3. George Holroyd
net 70
Super Sawng Award: Shared by Ed Trayling, Kevin Smith (2), Bert Guy, Harry
Riley, Harry Cowling and Keith Hector.
Banana Booby: Jeff Jones.
Helgarson and
On Friday, 17th January, Century Chonburi was the course chosen by the Bunker
Boys for their first official stableford tournament of the year. Thirty-eight
travel weary souls stretched their way unto the basic clubhouse and prepared
themselves for the fray. The course is always well tended and looked good
for this time of the year. In division one Kristian Helgarson held
off all challengers to post a fine score of 39 points, with
Noble Place is Very 'Andy
On Tuesday, 21st January, Harry Riley led the Bunker Boys, in the absence of
Mr. Loy, to distant
Eastern Star Holds all the Aces
The current invalid amongst the province's courses, Eastern Star, put on
a weak smile and welcomed the Bunker Boys for their weekly stableford competition
on Friday, 24th January. The course continues to limp along the road to recovery
after the blight on the greens and is still far away from being the beautiful
course many remember. However, on the day, it still managed to host a large
Thai tournament in addition to the Bunker Boys and the tired old lady held
all the aces as a strong wind and inconsistent greens could not persuade the
players to break par. In division one Norman Brooks used all his experience
to shoot 35 points with Keith Hector finding a consistency lacking recently
to fire 33 and soulmate Harry Cowling coming third with 31 points. In division
two Cecil Williams hit good form firing 34 points, with Keith Saunders
closing in on 33 and Gerhard Schulze buffeting the course with his 31point
haul. Both Harry Riley and Mal Spence recorded two's to share the Bunker Super
Sang award whilst another invalid, the Bunker's web guru Len Jones, coughed
and spluttered to an all-time low of nineteen points which more than merited
his second Bunker Banana Booby.
Mam Knows Best
A seasonably busy Siam Country Club found enough space on the first tee
for forty Bunker Boys and girls when she hosted their weekly medal play competition
on Tuesday, 28th January. The course was very dry and the hard fairways allowed
for a lot of "run" whilst the greens were their usual "receptive"
best. An oversight had left the seven ladies to play in the men's divisions,
thus initiating Murphy's Law which dictated that the best score of the day
was recorded in division two by Mam Trayling, who carded a very creditable
net 71, one shot ahead of the returning Ian Phillips, deprived of golf by
a three month winter in England. In third place came Khun Noonit Tawapee who
shot 73. In division one Lancashire's favourite, Wilf Latham, shot
an excellent level par 72 to head the group, with Max Bussinger only one shot
behind and Mr. Loy taking the third place on the podium with his net 74. The
Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Tom Breslin, Keith Saunders, Steve
Nowell and Colin Wilkes, whilst PJ Redmond's lacklustre net 87 just held off
the challenge from an absent Chris Davisson for the Bunker Banana Booby. But
it was a day for the ladies to remember, especially Mam Trayling, who proved
the old adage that "mam certainly knows best".
Wilf Savours a Double at Plutaluang
The ever attractive Royal Thai navy course at Plutaluang piped aboard the
Bunker Boys for their weekly stableford competition on Friday, 31st January. It was also the
occasion of the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Goat began in fine style
when Wilf Latham shook it by the beard recording the day's best score
over the North and West nines. For the second time in four days he was to
top the lists and his 39 points all but eclipsed the chasing pack headed by
Irishman Tom Breslin, on 37, and Remy Guy sharing third place with Steve Nowell,
both carding 34 points. Division two was a tighter affair altogether with
Keith Saunders and Richard Wardell heading the field with 36
points, one ahead of Len Jones who saw victory snatched from his grasp with
a wayward pitch on the final hole. Steve Nowell recorded the day's only two
on the picturesque par-three Lighthouse hole and was a deserved winner of
the Bunker Super Sawng award whilst John Preddy was an early contender for
the fruit when he played his second shot on the West number two from the adjacent
blue tee box on the North seventh after a vicious ricochet! In the end he
had to concede the Bunker Banana Booby to Keith Hector, the previous week's
star player, for his abysmal tally of 23 points. Once again it was a pleasure
to be out on the Plutaluang course and the peace and serenity found there
is a refreshing change from the stifle and bustle of Pattaya.
Irish Eyes Are Smiling
The distant course at
Doubles for
For the second time in eight days the Bunker Boys chose Plutaluang as the
venue for their weekly stableford competition on Friday, 7th February. The splendour of an immaculately presented course was to be matched by
some excellent golf and for two players it was to be their second taste of
success in the week. In division two Neil Griffin could well have
shaken off his "rabbit" status for good with his fine round of 40
points and this was accomplished under pressure from Mikael Andersson who
has just returned from
Hat-trick for Remy
On Tuesday, 11th February, a fleet of cars delivered the Bunker Boys up the highway
to beautiful Bangprakong Riverside for their weekly medal competition. The
course is always immaculately turned out and the lush fairways guaranteed
perfect lies whilst the fast greens and canny pin placements made for accurate
putting. Unbelievably the day was still with the omnipresent breeze only getting
up towards the end of the round. It was a day when good scores were inevitable
and in division one Bert "Remy" Guy took the honours for
the third competition in a row giving him an excellent hat-trick. He caressed
and cajoled the ball off the fairways and teased and tickled the ball with
unnerving accuracy on the greens. His third sub-par round in succession gave
him a score of net 71 and he was followed into the clubhouse by Wilf Latham
and Harry Cowling on 72. In division two the scores were incredible with John
Preddy and Kevin Sheppard recording 69's to give them only a share of third
place. Saranya Chaiyanont's net 66 could only make runner-up as newcomer Beni
Walthard, from
Bunker Boys Play Truant from the Classroom
Because the Classroom Classic "major" event had attracted over
180 competitors many Bunker Boys decided to play truant on Friday, 14th February, and take their antics elsewhere. Sixteen chums travelled to beautiful
Natural Park Hills for a stableford tournament on a day punctuated by showers
and Asian tourists. It has been more than a year since the group has tasted
the challenges of N.P.Hills and the course reminded them that it had not changed.
The narrow tree-lined fairways and slick undulating greens posed problems
and only those thinking golfers who put "course management" into
effect came out with any glory! In division one, appropriately on the day, the Belgian "Valentino", Remy Guy, headed the list for the fourth consecutive round with
his score of 32 points. In second place was Kevin Taylor, playing off 10,
who shot 29 points. He was closely followed home by Steve Nowell and John
King with their 28 points. In division two the occasional "cavalier"
golf was punished with low scores and the honours eventually went to Enda Naughton and Pat Murphy who both shot scores
of 25 points. David Johnson found himself in third and hid his head with a
score of 23 points. Harry Riley and Kevin Taylor shared the Bunker Super Sawng
award with their birdie two's and Sam Burke picked up the Bunker Banana Booby
for her low score of 16 points. Many thanks to Harry Riley for his impeccable
organisation on the day. OK, Natural Park Hills, you win! Perhaps Mr. Loy
will put the course on the list more often so the Bunker Boys can soon reacquaint
themselves with the subtleties of such a fine golfing experience.
At nearby Sri Racha International Golf Club a smaller group of players
took on the challenge of a "skins shootout". Old adversaries Len
Jones, John Preddy and Mikael Andersson were joined by Kevin Wilson for the
event and a very pleasant day was spoilt only by a heavy downpour after nine
holes, but the sanctuary of the clubhouse provided a welcome diversion for
an hour. The course is playing very short at present with hard running fairways
and these helped John and Len to amass a good first nine, with the former
transport manager just holding out with five skins to the web guru's four.
On the back nine things remained tight until Swedish Mikael beat Len to a
long putt to win a four hole rollover, thereby opening the door for a well
deserved Preddy victory.
Essentially both "truanting" groups showed what golf is all about.
No hassles, no rush, no pressure to win "at all costs", good comradeship
and, above all, a day out with one's friends.
Mikael Andersson is the Eastern Star
The sick old lady of the province's golf courses, Eastern Star, put on
a brave face for the visiting Bunker Boys on Tuesday, 18th February, when they arrived
for their weekly medal event. The club was as welcoming as ever but the once
beautiful course has now assumed a very sickly pallor, with its parched fairways
and desperately sad greens. In addition the wind was a constant distraction
as it blew strongly across the course. All these things, however, made for
a challenging day's golf and the star of the day was to be the keen Swedish
golfer, Mikael Andersson. Mikael plays five rounds a week and is disappointed
when he shoots more than two over par! His powerful striking had made an impact
with all the groups with whom he plays and only the previous day the Scandinavian
southpaw headed the field with the Haven, firing net 68 at Ban Chang. From
the start he took division two by the throat and dominated the day. His net
62 was his best ever round and was more than enough to blow the nearest challengers,
Len Jones and David Johnson with net 70, out of sight. In division one the
golf was of a more sober nature with Steve Nowell keeping his head down to win with net 75, followed by Bob Lindborg and
Terry Phur, who both shot net 76's. There were five candidates for the Bunker
Super Sawng award, scoring birdie two's but two had declined the invitation
to compete in the challenge, thus leaving the award to be shared by Len Jones,
Enda Naughton and John Draper. The other two reluctant candidates, John Preddy
and John Hughes were left sharing a banana split for their indecision. All
that was left at the end of the day was the memory of a wonderful round of
golf and the Bunker Boys returned home wishing Eastern Star a speedy recovery.
Old Hands Take Control at Ban Chang
The small and friendly club at Century Ban Chang gave its usual warm welcome
to a small and friendly group of Bunker Boys on Friday, 21st February, on the occasion of their weekly stableford event. The course was well
turned out and, with the cut at 18, in the first flight one of the Bunkers
"senior" golfers, Norman Brooks, led the way with a thoughtful
37 points. Soulmate Bill Hewitt was close enough to worry
The Bunker Monthly Two Day Event, 24-25th February,
Early Birds Get the Prize
The Bunker's popular monthly two-day event was held at Green Valley on
24-25th February and the format this
time was a three ball team better ball format, with the two best net scores
on each hole counting towards the team total. At the end of day one there
was only one stroke separating the top three teams but starting early on day
two the teams of Terry Phur, John King and Steve Nowell and Bob Lindborg,
Al Rolnik and Gary Austin took advantage of an empty course and little wind
to maintain their lead at the top. The later teams had hold-ups and a strong
breeze to contend with and fought desperately to hang on to the coat-tails
of the leaders, but to no avail. The third place was occupied by the team
of Norman Brooks, George Meigh and Bill Hewitt, with the latter golfer firing
a rare eagle two on the par-four tenth to give him the richly merited Bunker
Super Sawng award.
Norman Conquest at Treasure Hill
On
Friday, 28th February, Mr. Loy led his troops to far-off Treasure Hill for
their weekly stableford competition and they were welcomed by a course sorely
in need of water. Occasionally the course gets into this poor condition and
a little more thought and planning by the management would not go amiss. Nevertheless
the Bunker Boys took the challenge on board and the best score of the day
was recorded in division one where the redoubtable Norman Brooks topped
the list with a fine and thoughtful 35 points. His nearest challenger was
playing partner Bill Hewitt, the Bunker's current player-of-the-week. Bill
shot 34 points to stay ahead of third placed Bob Morrison who scored 32 points.
In division two Big Ian Phillips ended his current short stay in fine
style firing 34 points, one ahead of the chasing pack, which included David
Johnson, Neil Griffin, Harald Gruber and Enda Naughton, all scoring 33 points.
Big Ian also had the honour of scoring the day's only two thereby winning
the Bunker Super Sawng award as well. There was also the usual clutch of candidates
for the Bunker Banana Booby but in the end the day's lowest score of 12 points
assured John Fontier of the award.
March 2003
Everything's Fine in the Enda
The weather is warm and the annual Asian invasion has ended. Golf courses
are free at last from the stifling masses of tourists. What better time to
take advantage of the tranquility and beauty of Siam Country Club! So thought
the Bunker Boys on Tuesday, 4th March, when they descended on the course to play
their weekly strokeplay event. The dreams of a wonderful golfing day were
shattered when they saw the condition of the course with its bone dry, sandy
fairways and appallingly pitted and sanded greens. Only three days before
the course had been in fine form but the transformation as a result of some
over-zealous aeration had left the greens pitted and unbrushed, reminiscent
of a lunar landscape. Putting was a lottery and few had bought a ticket! Nevertheless
both divisions threw up their heroes and in the top flight Martin Davis
shot an excellent net 68 to take the top prize. He was fully five shots ahead
of nearest rival Keith Hector, returning from the golfing doldrums, and John
Clements took third place with net 76. In division two Enda Naughton
belied his handicap to fire a net 68 also. Sharing second place were George
Redgeway, who played some clinical golf in his level par 72, Neil Griffin
and welcome visitor Paul Taylor. Remy Guy shot the day's only birdie two in
an otherwise frustratingly poor round to win the Bunker Super Sawng award
and pity Ken Sale, for his net 116 was without equal for the Bunker Banana
Booby. One is left to wonder how very popular courses like
Good Scores at Bangprakong
On Thursday, 6th March, the Bunker Boys undertook their longest golfing journey
to the beautifully presented course at Bangprakong Riverside. On an extremely
hot day they laboured on the lush fairways in order to compete for the weekly
stableford prize. Their efforts were not in vain for more than a quarter of
the field returned scores of par or better. This was not an indication of
the difficulty of the course but rather proof of the well maintained fairways
where it was very difficult to find a bad lie. In division one the two elder
statesmen, Mr. Loy and Norman Brooks, both amassed 37 stableford points, whilst
the chasing group included John Clements and Brian Kelly, both firing 36.
In division two Des Pearson (39), Dick Worden (38) and Gary Austin (37) set
the early pace but were to be eclipsed by the high scoring Paul Taylor who
shot a fine 41 points of his 21 handicap. The accuracy of Chris Davisson,
Des Pearson and John Randle was later rewarded with a share of the Bunker
Super Sawng award for their birdie two's whilst further down the field the
hapless pairing of Ken Sale and Bob Pritchard fired scores so low that, added
together, they would have been an embarrassment to most golfers! A glance
at their cards meant there would be no question of where the Bananas were
heading! But memories of the day will be pleasant for all, especially Mr.
Loy, whose first nine gross of 40, giving him 23 points, almost matched his
best ever nine hole total. Well done everyone!
Monthly Two Day team event at Green Valley Golf & Country Club
Easy Win for Favourites
Two day golf is always an interesting format and the regular monthly Bunker
Boys' thirty six hole tournament took its roadshow to the wonderful Green
Valley Golf & Country Club. Despite the thousands of feet pounding the
course and greens over the last few months the course was impeccably set up
and the stage was set for some fine golf. This time there were eight three-ball
teams entered for a simple
Plain Sailing for Keith Hector at Plutaluang
On Thursday, 13th March, the Bunker Boys charted a course for the beautiful Royal
Thai Navy golf course at Plutaluang. This club is rapidly becoming a favourite
amongst Pattaya's golfers, all a result of the assured warm welcome and fastidious
care of the course. The South and East nines were devoid of other golfers
as the Bunker Boys took to the first tee for their weekly stableford competition
and the two divisions were cut at 18. In division one Keith Hector
fired the best score of the day, recording 37 points, easily holding off the
challenge of both Norman Brooks and Duncan Lee, who tallied 35 points. In
division two cheerful Des Pearson smiled and "heinekened"
his way to victory with a level-par 36 point total, three points ahead of
nearest challengers Brian Maddox and Nick Berner. Des also had a share of
the Bunker Super Sawng award, along with PJ Redmond, as they both recorded
birdie two's, Des on East 5 and PJ on South 4. Kevin Sheppard returned to
golf after a time-out in Chiang Mai and his lack of golf assured him of at
least a share of the Bunker Banana Booby with
Treasure Seekers Take to the Hills
On Tuesday, 18th March, Mr. Loy suffered a mental relapse in Soi Chaiyapool
and led his troops blindly up Highway 331 to the course at Treasure Hill for
their weekly medal tournament. There is a masochistic streak in many people
- how else can one explain the decision by thirty-one poor demented souls
to follow him? But go they did, and in division two Dick Worden took the honours with a creditable net 79, pressed by
Sharon Burton on 80 and Andy Anderson on net 81. Dick was so confused by the
experience that he forgot to attend the aprés-golf presentation. Or was it
embarrassment? Treasure Hills has that affect on a golfer! In division one
saner minds prevailed and Keith Hector made it two victories
in a row with a fine net 74. This was good enough to withstand the challenge
of four-handicapper Michael Dige on 76 and regular visitor Bruce Ogilvie on
78. Appropriately there were no birdie two's recorded but Bill Hewitt's nightmare
14 shots on the frustrating sixteenth hole gave him sole custody of the Bunker
Banana Booby, declaring later that "bananas and custody" was his
favourite dessert. Back at the Bunker the glazed eyes and blank expressions
on many faces betrayed the fact that many had actually enjoyed the day's golf
on a course that continues to frustrate all but the better golfers.
Wilf Latham Takes Victory at Khao Kheow
On Thursday, 20th March, the Bunker Boys and ladies made a very welcome return
to the beautiful course at Khao Kheow after an absence of a couple of months.
The course did not disappoint but the speed of the greens took all by surprise.
The day was hot and humid as the players teed off on the A and C courses and
it soon became clear that those getting to grips with the tricky pin placements
would have the advantage. In the ladies division Margaret Wilkinson's 33 stableford points held off the challenge of Natsuda
Heitmann with thirty. Division two saw Norman Robinson fire 35 points, easily defeating the chasing group of
Des Pearson (31), David Johnson (30) and George Redgewell (30). Division one
saw the round of the day when Lancashire's favourite son, Wilf "Blondie" Latham, produced a back
nine of such quality that it boosted his first nine haul of a mere 17 points
to handicap threatening 40 point total. Such was the power of his play that
his gross for the C course was just two over par. Playing partner Bert "Remy"
Guy watched in awe as his own challenge petered out and he would only manage
36 points to give him second place. Tying for third were Steve Nowell, Rick
Schramm and Keith Hector, all scoring 34 points. The rain, which had threatened,
finally arrived to soak the final group on the last green but did little to
dampen the enthusiasm of Ciano Glavinia, who took the Bunker Super Sawng award
for his birdie two on A5. Regular visitor, and scratch golfer, Keith Smithson
matched Tiger Woods' drab round at stormy Muirfield in the Open Championship
last summer with his 83 (25 points) and received the Bunker Banana Booby by
way of consolation.
Mr. Loy Licks the
Following glowing reports of a course hitherto unplayed by them the Bunker
Boys chose to visit the Royal Lakeside Golf Resort at Bang Na on Tuesday, 25th March, for their weekly
medal event. Whilst living up to its glowing brochure description in many
respects, it disappointed with its painfully slow greens, which made those
at
Bill Hewitt Takes Green Valley ... again!
The Bunker Boys' love affair with
Ogilvie & Jonsson Raid the
It was another early start for the Bunker Boys, and no joke, on Tuesday 1st April, when they travelled
out of the province to faraway Bangprakong Riverside for their weekly medal
joust. The day was hot and humid and the course beautifully presented, as
usual. Fairways were lush and the greens were impeccably set up and teasingly
fast. The two divisions chomped nervously at the bit until the over-zealous
starter waited until the very stroke of eleven and called them to action.
As the field settled down it became clear that some excellent golf was being
played and in division two the "Icelandic Samurai", Kerry Jonsson, showed us all that his time in university in Tokyo has
not been wasted, and his thirst for victory was quenched with a fine four-under
par net 68. This was just enough to hold off Peter McKay who fired net 69
and Norm Robinson and Duncan Lee who both recorded net 72. Division one scores
were even better with Bruce Ogilvie taking the honours
with an astonishing net 65, a handful of shots ahead of the chasing group
comprising Ciano Glavina, Brian Kelly and Bill Hewitt, all with net 70. The
only birdie two of the day was scored by Phil Groves and he gladly took possession
of the Bunker Super Sawng award. There were the usual candidates for the "April
Fool" celebration but a Guy who shoots seven pars on the back nine then
messes his card with a seven on a par three more than deserves the Bunker
Banana Booby. That Guy was Remy!
Remy Cruises to Victory at Plutaluang
Thursday, 3rd April saw the Bunker Boys sail into the Royal Thai Navy course
at Plutaluang for their weekly stableford event and, as always, they were
welcomed by a course in immaculate condition. This was the fifth day of major
competition on this course in less than a week and the testing North and West
nines were to provide the backdrop to the competition. On a very hot and still
day both divisions set about their task and in division two the returning
"Icelandic Samurai", Kerry Jonsson,
took his second consecutive
victory, this time firing 33 points. It was to prove too much for Keith Saunders,
soon to return to the
No Flies on Ciano!
As a result of a pre-arranged booking for a Thai tournament the Bunker
Boys rose from their beds and dragged themselves, blinking and dishevelled,
to Siam Country Club on Tuesday, 8th April, for an unearthly ten o' clock start to their weekly
medal competition. One player even managed to arrive with all his short irons
and putter safe in his room and not in his bag! The fairways were like concrete
and the heavy top dressing on the greens added to the misery caused by the
myriads of seasonal flies, all conspiring to make the Old Lady of Pattaya
Golf less of an attraction than she usually is. However some excellent golf
was in store and in division
What a Scramble at
The Bunker's popular monthly two day event was held at the magnificent
Green Valley Golf & Country Club on Thursday and Friday, 10th and 11th April. This time the format
was a three-ball scramble and nine teams were entered. At the end of the first
day it became clear that a tight finish would be inevitable as the fancied
team of Bob Lindborg, Lamud Chaidara and Usa Chaiyosit headed Roy Mitchell,
Wilf Latham and Remy Guy and the minnows, John Preddy, Len Jones and Brian
Maddox, with only 0.4 of a point separating them. The second day is always
tougher than the first with the mental pressure mounting as mistakes are made.
Harry Riley, Saranya and Ciano Glavina were making moves up the table and
Ciano's celebration after sinking a birdie putt on the ninth was recorded
as a sonic boom at nearby Utapao airbase! Also lurking ominously were the
previous month's winners, Terry Phur, Mikael Andersson and John King. Their precision golf saw them top the lists at the end
of the competition with a two day total of 124.6, twenty under par. Only 0.2
of a shot back were the afore-mentioned Harry, Saranya and Ciano whilst the
so called "no-hopers" in the shape of John Preddy, Len Jones and
Brian Maddox kept their heads and showed what can be done with absolute concentration
and commitment to finish third on 127.6. It was a pleasure to play in this
month's competition and already plans are being made for May's extravaganza.
McGee Masters Century
On Tuesday, 15th April, the Bunker Boys forsook the delights of continuous dowsings
in Pattaya's Songkran week for the relative peace of Century Ban Chang. The
day was hot and, in truth, a dowsing of cold water would not have been unwelcome,
but the two divisions stuck it out chasing the weekly strokeplay prize. In
divison one the scores were so poor that Mr. Loy was heard to echo the words
of the coalition Central Command in
Red Faces at Treasure Hill
Thursday, 17th April falls right in the middle of Pattaya's annual madness, known as Songkran,
when otherwise sane persons indulge in all manner of strange ways, especially
where water is concerned. It was fitting that Mr. Loy chose this date to adjourn
to the frustrating Treasure Hill course for the Bunker Boys' weekly stableford
event. As usual the golfers were met with friendly smiles and bare and sandy
fairways and the two groups began the day optimistic that someone would break
par. Golfers in division two must have wished they had stayed in town and
run the gauntlet for only Saranya
Chaiyanont managed to shoot thirty points, one ahead of Duncan McGee, with Dimitri
Cerny coming third with 28 points. In division one Mikael Andersson fired
32 points to take third place, three behind Michael Dige who shot 35. The
winner was none other than Mr. Loy himself and he had
the honour of firing the Bunker's first sub par score at Treasure Hill for
many a long day - 37 points - his efforts championing the advance of modern
psychiatric medicine! The only birdie two of the day was recorded by visiting
junior, Carl Matthews, and he was rewarded with the Bunker Super Sawng award
whilst Danny Greer chose the presentation to announce his return to Pattaya
and was presented with the Bunker Banana Booby for arriving at the bar twelve
hours too late for golf. It was indeed a day for red faces all round, and
at the end, with relief, the golfers sought the lesser insanity of Pattaya
at Songkran!
Harry - ve derci Remy!
On Tuesday, 22nd April, the Bunker Boys made a long overdue return to the Sri
Racha International Golf Club, designed by Gary Player with the Bunker in
mind - a fine test of golf where accurate shots are well rewarded and judgment
of distance is so important. It was the hottest day of the year and as the
day wore on there was the portent of a heavy storm. Mr. Loy was quietly confident
after his fine performance at Treasure Hill on the previous outing but the
day was to belong to his old adversary, Harry Riley. In division two the returning
"Fireman" Danny Greer showed he has not lost his touch as he held
his nerve to shoot net 74, sharing the runners-up slot with Harry's lass,
Saranya. It was Lewiinski's member, Irishman Seamus Brennan, however, who had
kissed the Blarney Stone and conjured up a fine net 71 to take the divisional
prize. Division one saw a titanic struggle with, first, Gary Matthews, firing
69 and Remy Guy recording the day's lowest gross for his net 68. Remy returns
to
Smiler's Finest Hour at Royal
As promised a month ago, the Bunker Boys returned to the enigmatic Royal
Lakeside club in Bang Na on Thursday, 24th April, for a stableford tournament, to see if
what the brochure said was true. They found the course, this time, immaculately
turned out with consistent greens and lush fairways. The day was made for
excellent golf and scores in the single division were to reflect this later.
Police were out on the highway in Chonburi and they managed to halt the "drives"
of Saranya Chaiyanont and Andrew Rider. With his adrenalin racing, "Smiler" Andrew Rider, continued to drive
to the front on the course, shooting a defiant 44 points off his 19 handicap.
"Som nom na, Officer!" Hard on his heels came the quietly consistent
Steve Nowell with a fine 42 points whilst the third place was occupied by
Doug Campbell with a four-under total of 40 points. Three other golfers were
to post sub-par rounds in a good all round performance. Once again, amazingly,
no birdie two's were recorded but the shadow of the Bunker Banana Booby loomed
large over Mr. Loy for the second time in almost as many days. Nothing could
detract from the driving of "Smiler", however, and his expensive
altercation with the "boys in brown" on the highway proved you can
thrash the course... and walk away with the bananas on the same day!
Spendley's Happy Return at Khao Kheow
On Tuesday, 29th April the Bunker Boys took their weekly medal play tournament
to the delicious Khao Kheow Country Club, journeying through a very heavy
rainstorm which delayed the start of play by almost an hour. This made the
course very difficult to master, with wet fairways and slow, heavy greens.
The field was split into two divisions as usual with the cut at 16 and under
and in division one Michael Dige shot another fine
round on a course he loves. His gross 77, converted to net 72, was too good
for Magnus Johansson (74) and Jeff McLaury (75). In division two Seamus Brennan
made the frame yet again with a fine net 77, a shot behind a resurgent John
Preddy (76), but a long way behind the hero of the day, Dave Spendley, who fired a super net 70 on the eve of his birthday.
In fact, Dave had sponsored a longest putt prize to celebrate and the returning
Jim Payne will be enjoying his winning putt in fine style at Dave's Soi 7
"Love Hearts Bar". Per Ascan scored the first birdie two in the
Bunker's last three outings to win the Bunker Super Sawng award whilst the
list of candidates for the Bunker Banana Booby included Seamus, who travelled
to the course without his clubs, Paul Rose who failed to complete the course
and "Fireman" Danny Greer, who showered afterwards, without realising
until it was too late, that he still wore his panama! However, Ciano Glavina,
never short of a quip, gave Mr. Loy the perfect opportunity to present him
with the fruit after a miserable net 87. For Dave Spendley, however, the day
was to provide him with many very happy returns.
Terry Purrs with Pride at Plutaluang
What better way to celebrate May Day than taking a trip to the superb Royal
Thai Navy course at Plutaluang! This was the choice of the Bunker Boys for
their weekly stableford challenge on Thursday, 1st May, and when they arrived
there was little room in the car parks and even less room on the course, but
the starter did his job well and all twenty combatants were safely away on
the South and East nines, almost on time. It was to be a day of resurgence
for two of the Bunker's regulars and also a day of sadness. It was to be their
last round for a few months as Bill Hewitt, Steve Nowell, Wilf Latham and
Remy Guy all returned to
One Handicapper Don Pars the Course
May 6th had the Bunker Boys & Girls travel to far off
Seamus Does it Again
May 9th saw the Bunker Boys & Girls travel to the peaceful and quiet Chonburi
Century Course. The price and condition of this golf course must be one of
the best value for money golf courses that is visited by the IPGC. A small
field with one division had Norman Brooks & Per Aschen sharing 2nd place
with 35 points with Seamus Brennan coming out on top with 39 points. Richard
Wardell scooped the 2s award with a birdie on the #7 par 3. The Bunker Bananas
were awarded to Bob Morrison in his absence after he fled the scene when he
realised he was the main contender.
Ex-caddy Saranya is Master at
The Bunker Boys' latest monthly two day golf tournament was held at Green
Valley Golf & Country Club on 12th-13th May. The course, as always, was immaculately
presented and the weather was oppressive on the first day and overcast for
the second round. In all there were twenty competitors and, as the soccer
season in
Bob's the Job at Ban Chang
On Friday, 16th May, the Bunker Boy's chose Century Ban Chang as the venue
for their weekly stableford competition. A seasonable small field turned out
on an overcast day which made conditions ideal for golf, and the course was
empty and well prepared, with the exception of a few dressed greens. The cut
was at sixteen and under and in division two the old warhorse Norman Brooks set the standard with his 38 points, followed by Len
Jones, hitting form at last on a course he dislikes, with level par 36 points.
In division one Bob van Moll drew gasps and applause
from his playing partners with an astounding display of golf which saw him
shoot gross 72 off his handicap of five. The power of his drives, the accuracy
of his approach play and his calculated putting produced a round of the highest
quality, rarely witnessed at the Bunker since the days of the first IPGC Champion
Darren Robson. Bob's awesome 42 points blew away the challenge of second placed
Steve Nowell who may have entertained high hopes with his score of 38 points.
At the other end of the scale Saranya Chaiyanont, winner at Green Valley only
three days previously, suffered a sad dip in form which gave her a second
award in the week, the Bunker Banana Booby, for her meagre twenty points.
But, for most players, the abiding memory will be of a day which saw Bob van
Moll post one of those scores most others can only dream about.
Harry Riley Wins Tight Battle at Khao Kheow
On
Tuesday, 20th May, the Bunker Boys gathered under an overcast sky at the beautiful Khao
Kheow Country Club for their weekly medal event. The group of twenty golfers
were divided into two divisions, as usual and the "A" and "C"
nines were the challenge. The starting nine saw both low handicappers, Mike
Allidi and Bob van Mol, lose all their allotted shots and for everyone it
was a difficult beginning. The second nine gave some relief however and in
division one Harry Riley played some fine
golf for seven holes to finish on net 72, level par for the day. He was one
shot ahead of Mike Allidi with Bob van Mol holding on to third place with
his net 75. In division two Jocce Hansson's annual holiday
was highlighted by his victory with net 78, followed by Jim Payne's net 79
and Saranya Chaiyanont's net 80. For the second round running there were no
birdie two's recorded but PJ Redmond's fine boast that he had never received
the Bunker Banana Booby was severely put to the test when he failed to return
his card. All things come to those who wait!
Riley, van Mol and Allidi...again!
On Friday, 22nd May, the Bunker Boys made a return to the deliciously testing
Natural Park Hill golf club after an absence of two years and found it in
excellent condition once again. The Gary Player designed course is noted for
its many trees and huge rolling greens and the bywords for a good round are
"accuracy" and "confidence". In division one Harry Riley, Bob van Mol and Mike Allidi showed that they
possess those qualities in abundance and they all returned under-par scores
of 38 points to share the divisional award. In division two Len Jones drew the curtain on his golfing week with a satisfactory
31 points, to win a tight contest from Gerhard Schulze (30) and Saranya Chaiyanont
(28), playing the course for the first time. Bob van Mol and Mike Allidi both
birdied the par-three fifth hole to share the Bunker Super Sawng award whilst
John Preddy received the Bunker Banana Booby for his low score, declaring
that his preference was for the beauty of the "sister" course at
the Resort. For the others however it was a reunion that was well appreciated.
Bill Macey Tames Treasure Hill
On
Tuesday, 27th May, the Bunker Boys took the well trodden journey up Route 331 to the enigmatic
course at Treasure Hill. When they arrived they found the course in excellent
condition which prompted many to declare the fairways to be in the best condition
they had seen. In this state this makes the course a much fairer test of golf
even though accuracy is still paramount. In division two both Len Jones and Norman Brooks managed to keep
their rounds together to tie at the top of the leaderboard with very creditable
scores of 34 points. This was five points clear of John Preddy and Mike Parsons,
both sharing the runners-up place. In division one the only sub par round
of the day was recorded by Bill Macey. Bill is a twelve handicapper who usually
manages to keep the ball on the fairway and this consistency rewarded him
with a fine 38 points, a country mile ahead of nearest rivals Harry Riley
and Terry Phur on 31 points each. Bill also had the honour of recording the
day's only birdie two and he was subsequently presented with the Bunker Super
Sawng award. In golf nothing is ever certain but the return of "Dutch
Dandy" Sunny Ruthsip lent an air of inevitability to the Bunker Banana
Booby award and this he shared with Neil Griffin, both posting the lowest
scores of the day.
King For a Day at Natural Park Resort
There are only a few golf courses that always draw gasps of appreciation
from players and one of these has always been Natural Park Resort. Excellent
management and programmed maintenance continue to produce a course of the
highest quality, with colourful backdrops and lush fairways. On Friday, 28th May, the Bunker Boys
reacquainted themselves with the course when they visited for their weekly
stableford competition. They were presented with excellent facilities and
fast greens (Stimpmeter #9). In division two the Bunker's quickest golfer,
John Preddy (Stimpmeter #10), showed a welcome
return to form with a fine display recording 38 points, two ahead of nearest
rival Gerhardt Schulze, with "Sunny" Ruthsip scrambling to 31 points
in third place. Division one was all class, with the Bunker's fastest talker,
Harry Riley (Stimpmeter #12) holing an amazing 190 yard second shot, over
water, on the par four A4 hole. His round of 40 points gave him a share of
second place with partner Saranya, playing the course for the first time.
But well out in front was the thoughtful John King who shot a stunning
score of 43 points off his sixteen handicap, without doubt the round of the
day. Harry Riley's eagle effort secured for him the Bunker Super Sawng award
and new boy David Levi celebrated his rookie status with the Bunker Banana
Booby for his low score of the day. Back at the Bunker afterwards the abiding
memories were of quality golf on a quality golf course.
Binni Shoots net 61 at Siam!
On Tuesday, 3rd June, the Bunker Boys travelled to nearby Siam Country Club
for their weekly medal competition. They arrived to find changes in the buggy
rules and, more importantly, very lush and uncut greens, which made them slower
than usual - not an exciting thought! The day was to be memorable for the
number of good scores under the circumstances. Division one produced good
golf with a tie at the top between Terry Phur and Norman Brooks both firing net 69, and Hakan Widestedt holding down
third place with his net 71. Division two saw the senior member of the Icelandic
Josteinsson contingent, Kristjan, shoot a creditable net 70, one shot behind
a resurgent John Preddy who fired a pulsating net 69. The hero of the day,
however, was Kristjan's brother, Binni, who shook off three
months of inactivity on the golf course to produce a round when everything
went right. His drives were true, his putts direct and even his approach play
carried the luck he needed, as when he rebounded off a tree to within a foot
of the hole on number three! His incredible net 61 was one of the Bunker's
remarkable rounds and his professional looking score of gross 40 for the back
nine, off his handicap of 31, was inexplicable. Needless to say he also picked
up a share of the Bunker Super Sawng award, birdying the par-three twelfth,
as did Mark Strawbridge, Hakan Widestedt and Mike Allidi. The Bunker Banana
Booby was presented to Mr Loy's Australian friend, John Stewart, whose "fun
round" of 128 was punctuated with comments such as "I played better
than the score suggests"! But Binni Josteinsson certainly will remember
the day, if only to wave goodbye to his handicap of 31.
Schulze Shoots 40 at Plutaluang
On Thursday, 5th June, the Bunker Boys sought the solace and perfection of
golf at Plutaluang for their weekly stableford competition. Sadly they found
neither with extensive and noisy course maintenance taking place on the North
and West nines. The West nine in particular was particularly disappointing
with rock hard, bare fairways, mechanical diggers and slow, uncut and sanded
greens. Sticking to their task manfully, in division one Terry Phur was one
of the few to finish the round with any credibility, shooting 35 points, two
ahead of Harry Riley, with Neil Hughes and Hakan Widestedt sharing third place
on 31 points. Division two saw the long hitting of Gerhardt Schulze work the
oracle with a fine 40 point haul. A long way behind came the equally long
Kevin Sheppard with 34 points and in third place the gentle Icelandic giant,
Brynjolfur "Binni" Josteinsson, with 31 points. Unsurprisingly there
were no birdie twos recorded but Sander "Sunny" Ruthsip's abysmal
total of 19 points bore fruit in the shape of the Bunker Banana Booby, and
not for the first time! Maybe, just maybe, the next time the Royal Navy course
at Plutaluang pipes aboard the Bunker Boys the course will be better presented.
OK Treasure Hill, You Win!
On Tuesday, 10th June, sixteen hardy souls left the Bunker for the superb
golfing challenge at Treasure Hill, surely one of the toughest courses on
the Bunker Boys' circuit. Notable amongst the absentees was Mr. Loy, rejecting
his favourite course in favour of a visa run. The day was hot and the course
was dry. Conditions proved to be such that no-one came anywhere near par in
the stableford event. The single division saw Hĺkan Widestedt take top place with a meagre 29 points, one point ahead of PJ Redmond,
on 28, and another consistent round by John Preddy, on 26 points. No birdie
two's were recorded and there were not enough bananas to go around, back at
the Bunker. Treasure Hill does that to one, on occasions!
Success for Saranya at Natural Park Hill
On Thursday, 12th June a smaller than usual group of Bunker Boys travelled
to the deliciously testing course at Natural Park Hill for their weekly stableford
competition. As usual, the course was immaculately presented and the consistently
fresh breeze added to the complexities of the challenge. From the start good
scores were difficult to maintain but Saranya Chaiyanont, playing there for only the second time, showed the
lessons she had learnt previously, keeping the ball on the fairway and away
from the many trees. Her score of 37 points was enough to secure victory on
a day when the men struggled. In second place, on 36 points, was the accurate
PJ Redmond, finding his form at last, whilst a trio of players, Mike Allidi,
George Redgewell and Terry Phur all shot 33 points to share third place. Harry
Riley managed the day's only birdie two to win the Bunker Super Sawng award
outright whilst everyone sighed with relief when it was known that Mr. Loy's
return from a visa run was delayed and the Bunker Banana Booby was held up
somewhere on the train from Penang!
Kevin Wilson Stays the Pace at Green Valley
On Monday and Tuesday, 16 - 17th June, a small field of Bunker Boys went to their
favourite course at Green Valley for their monthly two-day event, this time
an individual stableford competition. They were met with a course in excellent
condition but radically changed. Gone is the "old" par-five fourth,
noted for its frightening second and third shot, to be replaced by an insignificant
and short par-four; gone is one of the most difficult par fours in the province,
the fourteenth with its length and out-of-bounds on the right, to be replaced
by a short and easily reachable par five, even for the higher handicappers.
These two holes have significantly changed the character of the course and
with their old SSS rating still being used it makes a farce of playing under
a stableford format. However, Kevin Wilson was unfazed by it all and held out over the two days to post a combined
score of 73 points with Harry Riley and John Preddy tying for second place
on 63. Daily winners were: Day One - Kevin Wilson (40) and Day Two - Len Jones
(34). No birdie twos were recorded and the Bunker Super Sawng award was kept
in abeyance for the next time. Mick Ramshaw suffered the indignity of the
Bunker Banana Booby for his low total but smiled his way through the two days.
It remains to be seen whether the major changes will have a detrimental effect
on the nature of the course or improve it, as was the case at Plutaluang a
year ago. But why fix it if it ain't broke?
Len Jones, Come On Down!
The Bunker Boys returned to the beautiful Natural Park Resort club for
their weekly stableford competition on Thursday, 19th June, and found the A
& B courses perfectly turned out, as usual. A windy day saw the players
struggle to come to terms with the conditions but in division two Len Jones found the form he has been seeking for two years and
shot a magical 43 points. Confidence was soaring as his abysmal short game
disappeared and his total was only what his accuracy, course management and
guile deserved. Pushing him close was Mick Spears with an excellent 39 points
whilst the man in form at the Bunker at present, Kevin Wilson, produced another
solid round of 37 points to come third. In division one the scores were surprisingly
lower as Roy Mitchell returned to the
game with a steady 32 points, just heading Harry Riley (31) and PJ Redmond
(30). The only birdie two of the day was recorded by Mick Spears and he celebrated
the Bunker Super Sawng award with a ceremonial "ringing of the bell"
at the Bunker afterwards. Not so the fate of wee Jon Wood, however, as he
left his bag of accessories at the Bunker and had to hire shoes and socks
and invest in a couple of expensive golf shirts at the club. The Bunker Banana
Booby came at no extra cost however! Meanwhile Len Jones is still on cloud
nine until he sees his what punishment the handicap secretary will mete out
to him!
David Johnson is the Best of the Few
On Tuesday, 24th June, a very small group of Bunker Boys returned to the generally
beautifully prepared course at Bangpakong on the banks of the river that bears
the same name. Sadly not so this time as the course had obviously "peaked"
for a Thai competition four days previously and seemed a little jaded as a
result. The greens were worn and "hairy" and the usually lush fairways
were in need of some tender loving care. The day was clear enough after the
recent downpours and the conditions suited David Johnson and his newly discovered driver, very well. He hardly
put a foot wrong in his round of net 70 and this kept Hakan Widestedt (72)
and a consistent Kevin Wilson (73) at bay. David also had the honour of firing
the day's only birdie two, but his usual reluctance to participate in the
Bunker Super Sawng competition denied him the pleasure of the spoils.
Two Tied at Khao Kheow
The Bunker Boys made a welcome return to the neatly turned-out course at
Khao Kheow on Thursday, 26th June, for their weekly stableford competition. The day was
clear with a fresh breeze evident all day. This was to have an effect on the
scores and no-one managed to play a par or better round. The single division
saw a tie at the top between Gerhard Schulze and new member Hĺkan Widestedt, both firing credible
totals of 34 points. John Hughes returned from his cosy North Oxfordshire
club to post a score of 31 points to secure third place in his first round
at the Bunker for many a month. For the third successive competition no birdie
two's were achieved but Paul Quodomine's prediction that he would bring home
some fruit was uncannily accurate and his sixteen points guaranteed him the
Bunker Banana Booby and a place in the Bunker's press report.
Treasure Hill Continues to Torment
An overcast sky and a sharp seasonal shower welcomed the Bunker Boys when
they returned to the tough and testing Treasure Hill Golf Club on Tuesday,
8th
July,
for their weekly stableford competition. The two divisions were cut at handicap
18 and under. The course was in excellent condition and in division one the
laurels went to Des Richardson, playing off ten, who shot a score of 34 points.
Second was five handicapper Steve Bugden, with 29 points, sharing the minor
honours with John Hughes. Division two saw a tighter race
with Mark Joshua firing 32 points, two behind Sander "Sunny" Ruthsip,
on 34, and Gerhard Schultz with the day's best score of 35. Once again the
course had won with no-one beating par. There was one birdie two and the award
for the Bunker Super Sawng competition went to Steve Nowell. Neil Griffin
shot the day's lowest total and took his Banana Booby prize home to enjoy
at his leisure.
Kevin Wilson Out On His Own at Natural Park
Hill
On Thursday, 10th July, a large group of Bunker Boys were attracted by the
charms of Natural Park Hill, trees and all, for another stableford competition.
A very hot day saw thirty-seven golfers tee off in two divisions with the
cut at eighteen. In division one, visitor Steve Bugden, playing off five,
showed his form at Treasure Hill earlier in the week was no fluke as he recorded
a score of 34 points to win the top prize, with PJ Redmond and Dave Smith
firing 32 points to share the second place. In division two Gerhardt Schulze
and Jim Payne persevered to score 31 points each whilst way out on his own
was Kevin Wilson, who blows either
hot or cold, steaming in on a sub-par 38 points. There were four birdie two's
with Neil Griffin coaxing in a thirty foot putt and Wilf Latham teasing in
a chip from off the green. Doing it the "right way", and twice,
was Mark Campbell and all three players shared the Bunker Super Sawng award.
Des Richardson, playing off ten, had a round of such stunning mediocrity that
the Bunker Banana Booby found an appropriate recipient yet again. The "Top
Banana" only two days previously, had scooped the pool, unrivalled!
Revenge is Sweet for John Hughes
On Monday and Tuesday, 21st - 22nd July, thirty hardy Bunker Boys took on a two-day
eclectic challenge at Green Valley Golf & Country Club. It was the Bunker's
first experience of such a format and it was a useful warmup for the tournament
there next month to celebrate the birthday of one of the Bunker Boys, Harry
Riley. On both days there was a fresh wind and this helped to concentrate
the minds of the golfers over the two days. On the first day the leaderboard
saw John Preddy at the top with
a very creditable net 71, with a clutch of players within striking distance,
all capable of eclecting a good total on day two. Minds changed as either
"percentage" shots were attempted or devil-may-care efforts were
used to improve day one scores. For one player in particular the day was memorable.
Sander "Sunny" Ruthsip used his very unauthodox action to good effect
to post a second day score of net 63, beating every score on his first round!
This monumental effort saw him as the clubhouse leader until the final group
came in. In the inaugural Emergency A-Go Go Classic last year John Hughes blew it on the last two holes to throw away a certain
victory and his memories of Green Valley have haunted him since. No such horrors
this time however as his smooth southpaw rhythm was well used to tease shots
off his first round and he entered the clubhouse with an eclectic score of
net 62. Joining Sunny as runners-up on net 63 were Steve Nowell, David Johnson
and Norm Robinson. On day one the Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Kevin
Wilson, John Emmerson, Steve Nowell and Wilf Latham, the latter also picking
up a share on day two, this time with John King. Harry Riley's nine off the
tee guaranteed him the bananas on day one whilst Roy Mitchell's four putts
from within two feet assured him of the Bunker Banana Booby on the final day.
Everyone enjoyed the event and the format is certainly one which makes a golfer
think more about his approach to shot making. Roll on next month!
New Faces at the Top
On
Thursday, 24th July the Bunker Boys braved the seasonal showers and travelled to distant Noble
Place Golf Resort for their weekly stableford competition. In division one
Unto Kilvonen shot 32 points, one behind Ciano Glavina on 33 and a further
shot back from David Smith, the ultimate winner with 34 points. Division two
saw higher scores with Neil Griffin and Bill Chadwick sharing third place
on 37 points, Hardy Holtz taking second with 39 and Gene Scalf belying his
18 handicap to post a remarkable 44 points. The handicapper will get his revenge
no doubt! The Bunker Super Sawng Award was shared by Ciano Glavina and Saranya
Chaiyanont for their birdie two's whilst "Skinny" Blair Newton once
again took the feared Bunker Banana Booby for his low score of the day.
...and Ciano Makes Four!
On Tuesday, 29th July, the Bunker Boys reacquainted themselves with Century
Ban Chang after seemingly months of absence. They set out in two divisions
to challenge for the weekly medal competition, with the cut set at sixteen
and under. In division two Mark Joshua and Saranya Chaiyanont managed to tie
on net 73 for the minor placings whilst Jim Payne went two better to snatch
the runner-up place. In front, showing a clean pair of heels, was George Redgewell whose fine net 70 was the best round of the day. Division
one saw a tighter struggle with the honours shared by the 72's of David Smith, John Hughes, Hĺkan Widestedt and Ciano Glavina, whose modesty allowed him only the briefest of smirks
in the direction of Mr. Loy at the prize giving! Saranya had the honour of
winning the Bunker Super Sawng award for her prodigious effort on the par
three fifth whilst John Hughes claimed once again that he was the victim of
his own success when a monstrous drive on the fourteenth got snarled up behind
the lone tree in the middle of the fairway. He found little sympathy, and
a large bunch of fruit was his only reward!
Tough Going at Plutaluang
On Thursday, 31st July, the Royal Thai Navy course at Plutaluang threw out
the welcome mat for the Bunker Boys for their weekly stableford competition.
The South and East course were dedicated for the event and sadly the heavy
rains of late had left the greens very heavy and slow. The inconsistent fairway
grasses were also more of a problem than usual and, at times, it seemed that
even the sparkle in the eyes of the figurines marking the tees had all but
disappeared. It all made for a tight tournament however and in division two
one shot covered the first three places with Neil Griffin firing 36 points,
one behind the joint winners Duncan McGee and Gerhardt Schultze, on 37 points. Division one saw the Scandinavian pair,
Magnus Johansson and Hĺkan Widestedt share second place on 35 points whilst
the unassuming Ciano Glavina made it a second
victory in the week by birdieing the final hole to sneak the lead on 37 points.
Even Mr. Loy was fulsome in his praise of the Italian-Aussie at the presentation.
Maybe his share of the Bunker Super Sawng award, with Bill Chadwick, had softened
their friendly rivalry. The hapless but always smiling Unto Kilvonen enjoyed
his first taste of the Bunker Banana Booby after firing a dismal 24 points.
PJ Plays a "Blinder"
Another large group of Bunker Boys took to the road on Tuesday, 5th August, to take on the testing,
Gary Player designed course at Sri Racha. The course is beautifully set out
and, with the injection of some cash, could be one of the showpieces of Eastern
Seaboard golf. Sadly the course is a little jaded at present with hard fairways
and inconsistent uncut greens, but the potential is certainly there and on
weekdays the cost of golf there is ridulously low! Surprisingly, given the
difficulties of the greens, all except four players scored within six shots
of par, with half of the field firing par or better. In division two there
was a three way share of the honours with Mark Joshua, Norm
Robinson and Kevin Wilson all recording scores
of net 70. In division one Magnus Johansson shot a marvellous gross 75, recording
a net 69, only to see his efforts thwarted by those of form man, Ciano Glavina,
on 68, and the spectacular form of the thoughtful Irishman PJ Redmond, who played a "blinder" in returning a card
of net 66. The only birdie two of the day was recorded by Richard Feltham
who duly took the Bunker Super Sawng award, but the rest of his game only
brought him the Bunker Banana Booby as he dragged his heels in with a high
scoring net 83! It ended up as a wonderful day's golf and for economy and
comfort Sri Racha is certainly worth pencilling in on your schedule.
Happy Birthday Mr. Loy
On Thursday, 7th August, Mr. Loy gave himself the ideal birthday present by taking
the Bunker Boys to the challenging course at Treasure Hill for their weekly
stableford event. The course was in as excellent a condition as anyone could
remember and the day was fine. The standard of the golf was on a par with
other visits to the course and only one player managed to shoot par or better.
Amazingly, the course always seems to have the last word. Norm Robinson and
Steve Nowell, playing in the first group, set the standard with their 32 point
returns but the ever so consistent Swede, Hĺkan Widestedt, again showed he is the man to beat with his 37 point haul. He also proceeded
to spoil Mr. Loy's party by firing nearest to the pin on the long par three
second hole, which was kindly sponsored by Dale Shier. There were no birdie
two's this time but the Bunker Banana Booby was certainly in evidence and
many breathed embarrased sighs of relief as jovial Unto Kilvonen accepted
them for his low score of 20 points. The party continued at the Bunker with
Mr. Loy entertaining the players with a buffet but the talk was about one
subject - "How can we avoid Treasure Hill next time"!
Party Time For Harry Riley
Once in a while all the planning comes good and everything happens as it
should, making the day enjoyable and memorable, and such was the case on Monday - Tuesday,
11th and 12th August. All the planning by Harry Riley, Len Jones, Dale Shier
and Roy Mitchell, in advance of Harry's birthday tournament at Green Valley,
bore fruit in the shape of the forty three happy competitors who tackled the
two day eclectic event. The weather stayed fine and the course was beautifully
prepared, as usual, with lush fairways and lightning fast greens. The first
day saw no surprises as the lower handicapped golfers produced excellent scores,
with Ciano Glavina leading the men's field with an excellent net 69. In the
Ladies' division it was Saranya Chaiyanont who held sway on net 67. In an
eclectic event the tension is always highest on the second day as the golfers
strive to beat their day one scores and on Tuesday none did better than Binni
Josteinsson, a 27 handicapper, who took sixteen shots off his first day total
to record net 63. Harry Riley had also posted the same score. This put them
in control of the field for most of the day, and when Bob van Mol and Ciano
both posted net 64 the result seemed a foregone conclusion. However, lurking
on the fairway, was Hĺkan Widestedt, the very steady Scandinavian golfer,
who stole into the clubhouse and modestly presented his card with net 62.
He had spoilt Harry's party by one shot! In the Ladies' division Saranya had
also been caught by Paeng van Mol, both recording net 60, and in third place
was Amphiw Rimngam on 62. Main Technical prize winners were as follows:
Nearest-the-pin: Day One: John King, Amphiw Rimngam, Nora Haugsjordet and
Derek Reaper and Day Two: Saranya Chaiyanont, Harry Riley (2) and Nora Haugsjordet.
Longest Drive (Mon): Klaus Schackt (Div 1), Duncan Lee (Div 2) and Nora
Haugsjordet. Tuesday: Victor Paeng (Div 1), Alan Jones (Div 2) and Saranya
Chaiyanont
Other technical winners were Noonit Tawapee and Steve Nowell. Prizes were
very generously sponsored by Harry and Dale Shier. As the evening drew to
a close everybody spoke with one voice when they expressed their delight at
the tournament and wished the guest of honour the happiest of birthdays.
A Wopping Win at Ban Chang
On Thursday, 14th August, the Bunker Boys adjourned to Century Ban Chang for their
weekly stableford event. The course held no surprises and was well presented
as the field of twenty three players set out. The cut was at 18 and under
and in division two Gerhardt Schultze's long hitting helped him to shoot 36
points, three behind the joint winners, Duncan McGee
and Paul Rose. In division one
Jeff Johnson, on leave from Korea, fired 36 points, three behind Steve Nowell
whose return to form garnered him 39 points. The eventual winner, on forty
points, was a shy, unnamed golfer of Italian stock, formerly living in Australia,
who has requested anonymity! The Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Jeff
Johnson and Gerhardt Schultze whilst John Preddy, returning after being laid
low by a heavy cold, embarrassed himself with the days lowest score to take
home the Bunker Banana Booby.
Steve Nowell Steals the Show at Khao Kheow
On Tuesday, 19th August, the Bunker Boys went to Khao Kheow Country Club to
challenge for their weekly medal tournament, on a day which was overcast and
saw more than a fresh breeze blowing all day. Luckily the yellow tees were
well forward, making the course play quite short and many of the required
long drives were thus less of a problem. The greens were exceedingly slow
however, slower even than those at Siam, and they caught many of the golfers
out. Generally the course was looking jaded with dry and bare lies on many
of the fairways and the uncut furry greens. How unlike Khao Kheow! With the
cut as low as fifteen the two divisions set out and in division two the ever
consistent Hĺkan Widestedt of Sweden fired net 71 to take the spoils, from
a rapidly improving Mark Joshua, on net 72 and a resurgent, if plodding, John
Preddy on net 73. Division one saw the better rounds and Goran Peterson, John
King and Bob van Mol posted net 73's, the latter's gross being 79. Colin Wilkes
came in from the cold with an excellent net 71 but it was left to Steve Nowell
to steal the limelight with an exquisite net 66. His first nine of gross 38
hid the fact that the greens were notorious and his putting was impeccable.
The Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Bill Chadwick and Mark Joshua for
their birdie two's and Colin Wilkes should have had a share also but by not
entering the fray he cut himself off from the winnings for the sixth time
in two months! His consolation was the Bunker Banana Booby of course!
Rookie Ramshaw Savours First Win
On Thursday, 21st August, a smaller than usual group travelled to Siam C. C. for
the Bunker's weekly stableford outing. Maybe the others were psyching themselves
up for the Thai-Ger Line anniversary event the next day or maybe they had
heard that Siam had very heavily sanded greens on fifteen of the holes, thus
making the better golfers frustrated. After all, the greens are where they
play fifty per cent of their shots! In the single division Bill Chadwick and
George Redgewell played to par with their 36 point totals but Mick Ramshaw,
still a Bunker rookie, took his first win with a fine 39 points. Paul Rose
fired the day's only birdie two to take the Bunker Super Sawng award and it
gave Mr. Loy immense pleasure to present the Bunker Banana Booby to Ciano
Glavina for his low score round.
Steve Says Farewell With a Flourish
On Tuesday, 26th August, the Bunker Boys chose the Royal Thai Navy course at
Plutaluang as the venue for their weekly medal competition, in the hope that
the course would be in its usual good condition. They found the North and
West nines better than other local courses at this time of year with greens
slicker than those at Khao Kheow the week before. The two divisions were cut
at eighteen and under and in division two Len Jones found his form again,
on a course he enjoys, to make a firm challenge, posting net 74. He was matched
by Paul Rose to share runners-up place, with Duncan McGee firing an excellent
net 72 to take the top prize. In division one PJ Redmond (net 71) headed Gene
Scalf (72) to take second place but way ahead, waving goodbye to Thailand
two days later, was Steve Nowell. His gross 77 epitomised
the form he has been in recently and his net 65 cocked a snook at the high
S.S.S. for the North and West nines. His return in November will surely see
his handicap in single figures. Gerhardt Schulze and PJ Redmond shared the
Bunker Super Sawng award, with PJ recording a brace of birdie two's in his
round. They should have been joined by John Preddy but his birdie on the Lighthouse
hole was in vain as he had not entered the fray. Thus his consolation was
the Bunker Banana Booby.
The Lady Loves Bangpakong
The Bunker Boys returned to the exquisitely prepared course at Bangpakong
Riverside on Thursday, 28th August, for their weekly stableford competition.
After seemingly weeks of golf on poorly maintained fairways and greens the
visit was to be the highlight of the month because the course has the capacity
for producing at least one stunning round every visit. It was not to disappoint
this time either, with the only upset being an over zealous starter who, once
again, held the group up before releasing them on "his" course and
then allowed two Thai groups who had missed their tee-off spot to interlope
and hold up half the Bunker field for the back nine. This did not deter Yasuo
Suzuki (35) and Harry Riley (37) from their job of chasing Takeshi Hakozaki, who won the division one title with 38 points. All
three had managed to begin their back nine before the starter had intervened!
Division two saw the round of the day as runners-up Jim Payne (35) and John
Preddy (38) saw their efforts come to nothing with Saranya Chaiyanont posting
an astounding 42 points to dominate the day. The tricky wind denied opportunities
for birdie two's but Len Jones' brief flirtation with form ended as his low
score challenged that of new boy Peter Brown for the Bunker Banana Booby.
And he even managed to lose that as well!
Favourites Lead from the Front
The Bunker Boys chose their favourite course at Green Valley as the venue
for their monthly 36 hole event on 1st and 2nd September. This month the
format was a two-player team, better stableford score format and the eight
pairs found the course in superb condition, apart from the earthmoving changes
which are currently making a mockery of the handicap indexes for some holes.
The first day saw pre-tournament favourites Harry Riley and Ciano Glavina
head the field by three points from Goran Peterson and Magnus Johansson and
the surprise package of Duncan McGee and Paul Rose. Prior to the event it
was estimated that a team scoring a combined two day total of 90 points would
be the winners and the forecast was surpassed by Harry and Ciano on the second
day when they posted a frightening total of 92 points.Duncan McGee and Paul
Rose again surprised the field with their second day total of 46 points which
helped elevate them into second place overall on 88. Magnus and Goran repeated
their first day posting of 42 points to take third with a creditable total
of 84. Ciano Glavina and John Preddy won the Bunker Super Sawng award on the
first day with their birdie two's whilst their feat was unmatched on day two.
The low score of Bruce Ogilvie and Keith Stanbury was recognised with the
Bunker Banana Booby but this hid the fact that they played some excellent
golf. Consistency let them down. That is what two-day events are all about,
after all.
Many Happy Returners at Pattaya
Pattaya Country Club has been getting some good reports recently and the
Bunker Boys chose it as the venue for their weekly stableford tournament on
Thursday, 4th September. Many of the regulars were missing, presumably "loosening up"
in preparation for the following day's "Jackalope" major but the
small field was still divided into two divisions as normal, with the cut at
nineteen and under. In division two Kerry Jonsson, newly returned from Japan,
posted a reasonable 33 points, one behind David Johnson, newly returned from
England, but Neil Griffin, newly returned from work, showed he has not lost
any of his skill by recording 36 points. In division one Terry Phur scored
35 points on a course where he performed so well in a recent PSC event, to
share second place with the Bunker's in-form player at the moment, Ciano Glavina,
but way out in front, having recently returned from his annual visit to UK,
was Norman Brooks, who managed the day's only sub-par round, a fine 38 points.
Kerry Jonsson picked up the Bunker Super Sawng award for his sole birdie two
and the Bunker Banana Booby was shared by the day's low scorers, Bill Chadwick
and Mick Ramshaw.
Torrid Times at Khao Kheow
There is an old nursery rhyme in England which describes a little girl
thus: "When she was good she was very, very good, but when she was bad
she was horrid." The little girl's name? Surely it must have been Khao
Kheow! The Bunker Boys foolishly chose the course as the venue for their weekly
medal competition on Tuesday, 9th September, knowing that for the previous three weeks, at least,
the doyen of the Eastern Seaboard was in anything but its usual pristine condition.
The greens are very poor and slower even than those at Siam. But at least
at Siam you know what is in store before you play them. Khao Kheow, currently,
is not good value with scrappy tee boxes, patchy fairways and those slow,
inconsistent greens. However, golf is golf, and the two divisions manfully
fought it out over the A and B courses. In division one the Japanese pairing
of Yasuo Suzuki and Takeshi Hakozaki made a fist of it, sharing third place
with net 78, one shot behind chirpy Ciano Glavina. Harry Riley was the main
man, however, and his net 74 bore testimony to his concentration on the greens.
In division two the day's best score was returned by Rick Feltham and his
net 73 was more than enough to see off the challenges of David Johnson (75)
and Jim Payne (78). Saranya Chaiyanont fired the day's only birdie two on
the difficult A3 hole and was rewarded with the Bunker Super Sawng award,
whilst Kerry Jonsson, a winner the previous outing, suffered the indignity
of the Bunker Banana Booby for his nightmare round. He, with many others,
will return to Khao Kheow only when the course lives up to its well established
reputation as one of the finest in the area, and not a second sooner!
PJ Masters Plutaluang
The Bunker Boys travelled to the friendly Navy course at Plutaluang on
Thursday, 11th September, for their weekly stableford tournament. The North and West courses did
not disappoint with their challenging holes and, hurrah, for their consistently
paced greens after seemingly weeks of slow, uncut surfaces! The two divisions
set about their task honestly and only an over officious starter spoilt the
day by insisting a Thai six-ball interrupt the course of play, starting them
immediately in front of the leading group at the tenth. In division two there
was a titanic battle with George Redgewell, playing with a broken finger,
firing a heroic 34 points, just one behind the joint winners David Johnson
and John Preddy, on 35 points. In division one John King managed to capture
third place with an indifferent 29 points, one behind Roy Mitchell (30) and
a country mile behind the eventual winner, PJ Redmond who shot the day's only
par round. John King managed to take the Bunker Super Sawng award even though
John Preddy should have shared it with him but, once again, the latter chose
to opt out of the sideshow. The day's biggest blushes were on the faces of
David Lightfoot and Kerry Jonsson and their dismally low scores assured them
of the Bunker Banana Booby.
The Bunker Individual Strokeplay Championship
2003
Mam Trayling is Champion
The annual Bunker Individual Championships attracted thirty-two Bunker
Boys and Girls to local favourite Green Valley on 15th and 16th September. In effect there were three competitions to find the Gentlemen's Champion,
the Ladies Champion and the overall Bunker Individual Champion for 2003. Amongst
those playing was the current holder Harry Riley but the strong field guaranteed
there would be no easy ride this year. The first day saw few surprises as
the current form players, PJ Redmond, Ciano Glavina and Terry Phur posted
good scores. At the top of the Gentlemen's list was a late entry, German golfer
Gerhard Schulze, who scored net 69 and will be saddened to find his handicap
lowered as a result. The Ladies had a good time also with Noonit Tawapee heading
the list on net 68, followed by Saranya Chaiyanont (71) with Lamud Chaidara
and Mam Trayling on 72. The second day dawned with five retirees and sickness
was also to prevent PJ from completing his round.This left Terry Phur and
Ciano to chase the racing German but the higher second day scores were not
enough as Schulze held out to win with a total of 143 shots, from Ciano's
149 and a clutch of players on 151. David Johnson won third place on countback
from Terry Phur, Dale Shier and Paul Rose. The Ladies' event was much tighter
and good sub-par rounds by Mam Trayling and Lamud Chaidara saw them elevated
to the top two places with Saranya taking third place. Mam Trayling's tournament
best score of net 67 gave her a total of 139 and husband Ed has to build a
new trophy shelf to accomodate her new Bunker Individual Strokeplay Champion
trophy!
Full Results;
Gentlemen: 1. Gerhard Schulze, 143 2. Ciano Glavina, 149 3. David Johnson
(c/b), 151
Ladies: 1. Mam Trayling, 139 2. Lamud Chaidara, 140 3. Saranya Chaiyanont,
145
Overall Champion: Mam Trayling, 139
Near Pins: #2 Ciano Glavina, Harry Riley, #9 Lamud Chaidara, Mick Ramshaw,
#12 Dale Shier, Saranya Chaiyanont, #16 Bill Macey, Terry Phur
Near Pin, Second Shot: #7 Mick Ramshaw, Lamud Chaidara
All prizes and trophies were sponsored by Dale Shier, Harry Riley and John
Hanley and the Pattaya Golf Society is very grateful for their inestimable
contribution again this year, making the tournament an undoubted success.
Binni Savages Bang Chang
After a heavy week, including the Bunker annual championship, a small group
of Bunker Boys took the road to Century Ban Chang on Thursday, 18th September, to draw a veil across the week's golf. The round began with rain which
lasted for seven holes and left the course sodden, with very little run. It
is therefore amazing that some players were able to produce rounds of stunning
quality. In division one Dale Shier continued to consolidate his game and
his 36 points was matched by Ciano Glavina as they shared third place. Terry
Phur, another in-form golfer at the Bunker, held on to the runners-up place
with his 37 points but Bob Morrison showed everyone a clean pair of heels,
firing 41 points to take the top place. In division two Saranya Chaiyanont
secured third place with a creditable 34 points, whilst Hĺkan Widestedt fired
a level par 36 points for second place. On 3rd June this year Binni Josteinsson
produced the round of his life when he fired a net 61 at Siam and the amiable
Icelander repeated the feat at Ban Chang by scoring 47 points! What the handicapper
will do to him, as a result, can only be conjecture but he will certainly
no longer have the comfort of a 28 handicap. There were five birdie two's
and the four winners of the Bunker Super Sawng award were Harry Riley, Dale
Shier, Terry Phur and Ciano whilst the unfortunate Colin Wilkes again declined
the competition. The Bunker Banana Booby went to a speechless Ciano Glavina
for letting his playing group down by shooting a par whilst the others hit
birdies on the par-three fifteenth! Standards are indeed high at the Bunker!
Swinging in the Rain at Noble Place
On a sodden Tuesday, 23rd September, the Bunker Boys took the "highway to hell",
route 331, to distant Noble Place for their weekly strokeplay tournament.
Braving the traffic, the potholes, the road repairs and a clutch of traffic
police they arrived at the course in a rainstorm which delayed the activities
even longer. Eventually they teed off on the "C" course at 12:30pm
in steady drizzle which persisted for the whole of their round, the final
group coming off the course after 5pm. On a dry day the course would have
been in wonderful condition but the rain made accurate shots paramount. In
division one scratch golfer Keith Smithson fired an enviable gross 77 but
the honours of the day went to runners-up Bob Morrison and Mark Joshua with
their net 74's and John Hanley with his excellent
level par 72. Division two saw newcomer Dave Edwards acquit himself well scoring
net 74, to tie with David Johnson as runner-up, three shots a behind an enthusiastic
Bill Chadwick who set a sartorial
precedent playing most of his round in a knee-length plastic mac! There were
no birdie two's but a soggy Bunker Banana Booby was awarded to newbie Leo
Murphy for his high gross score of 123.
Neil Griffin Takes Treasure Hill
Mr. Loy's madness has returned! He scheduled a second trip in a week up
route 331 on Thursday, 25th September, this time to the daunting Treasure Hill,
for the Bunker Boys' weekly stableford event. It has to be said that this
course is currently one of the best in the area with immaculate fairways and
splendidly consistent greens and shows that a large investment in ground maintenance
is not necessary, merely careful planning. The course can be brutal and a
good start is essential to a successful round. Returning level par after two
holes Neil Griffin proceed to build a steady score and his back nine tally
of twenty points helped him to a level par total of 36 points. This was more
than enough to see off the challenge of Anders Pedersen and Bob Morrison who
both strove manfully to record 33 points each. There were no birdie twos and
the Bunker Super Sawng award was held back until the next time. Talking of
"the next time" reminds us that Mr. Loy has repeated his scheduling
madness for October. Dear, dear me!
Bob Morrison Shows His Form Again
Sri Racha International Golf Club has always had the potential to be a
memorable golf course. It was subtly designed by Gary Player with both the
novice and low handicapper in mind and all that was needed to realise that
dream was the injection of some cash and planned management. It seems both
are now in place and the Bunker Boys travelled there on Tuesday, 30th September, to "test" out the improvements. They were met with an increased
green fee and a construction site on the first four holes. Two temporary greens
were in place, it drizzled all day and the white tees were well back. The
course was to play extremely long. Despite these inconveniences the golf was
enjoyable and some good rounds were produced. In division two newcomer Les
Harber held on to his handicap with a level par net 72 whilst Bill Chadwick defied the elements and the restrictions of his plastic
mac to post a score of net 70, which was very creditable given the circumstances.
In division one only two shots covered the Swedish contingent of Magnus Johansson,
Martin Hanfelt and Anders Pedersen but way out in front was a man very much
in form at present, Bob Morrison. His long game was
enough to "shorten" the course and his net 67 was an outstanding
round in the conditions. John Hanley overcame the lottery of the temporary
green on the third hole to shoot a birdie two and he was well rewarded with
the Bunker Super Sawng award, whilst partner Lamun kept the honours in the
family by disqualifying herself after five putts from three feet on the first
green, to pick up the Bunker Banana Booby. Overwhelmed with joy she then rang
the bell back at the Bunker. Cheers, tirak!
Three Suitors for the "Old Lady"
Twenty or more Bunker Boys tipped their hats once again to the "Old
Lady" at Siam Country Club on a very wet Thursday, 2nd October, when they called
for their weekly stableford event. She was well prepared and well turned-out
with good fairways and consistently paced greens. From the start it was going
to be a difficult courtship, with the heavy conditions and overcast atmosphere.
It wasn't long before the rains came and this was to have an effect on the
tournament. Division two players suffered most as, hiding their blushes, Duncan
Lee posted a meagre 27 points, followed into the clubhouse by Dave Spendley
with 31 points and then Neil Griffin with his winning score of 32 points.
The "Old Lady's" charms were won over by a trio of division one
players and they jousted for her favours for the whole round. Beguiled by
the smiles of Harry Riley and PJ Redmond and the quiet modesty of Hĺkan Widestedt
she relented and they were able to take her hand with scores of 36 points.
Magnus Johansson stole a kiss with his birdie two on the sixteenth and he
was rewarded with the Bunker Super Sawng award for his impudence. In the end
it was good to see the course back to its former self and good to see that
it still held an excellent challenge.
Sailor Shoots Himself in Foot
The Manager of the Royal Thai Navy course at Plutaluang recently had this
letter published in the "Pattaya Mail". Notice especially the final
sentence.
Whilst visitors to Plutaluang are most welcome
and may enjoy the favorable rates charged for the course and facilities, the
management wishes to remind everyone that it is a Royal Thai Navy establishment
and, as a result, senior naval, military, and government personnel always
take priority on the golf course and in the clubhouse. This right may occasionally
cause some inconvenience to visitors that is regrettable, but necessary
for visitors to accept without question.
Social golfers, organized society and tour
groups, and major tournaments will continue to be made welcome, provided the
priority due to the Royal Thai Navy is fully respected.
The alternative is to seek another venue.
The Bunker Boys were scheduled to play there on Tuesday, 7th October, just three days
after publication and as a result many did what the good manager asked and
stayed away. The six players who went there played casual golf and, as a result
there is no report to present for the first time in the history of this web
site. The course also lost out to the tune of approximately 25,000 baht -
twenty five players' green and caddy fees, refreshments, golf carts, shop
purchases, etc.
Winning Return for PJ
On Thursday, 9th October the Bunker Boys made a welcome return to the beautifully
challenging course at Bangpra. The course was in excellent condition and the
greens were well on the way back to their notorious "slickness".
The format was stableford and the two divisions were cut at 18 and under.
The day was well organised and "officialdom" was inconspicuous,
unlike recent visits to Bangpakong and Plutaluang. In division two the players
found the greens a little too pacy and no-one managed to break par. The leading
contenders, however, posted good rounds with George Redgewell and Binni Josteinsson
sharing second place with their scores of 32 points. Visiting Perry McNeely
headed them with his fine 35 point tally, to take the division. In division
one scores were better and Bob Morrison and a returning Bill Hewitt shared
third place with 33 points. Heading them on 35 was Anders Pedersen but.just
a "nose" in front was the Bunker's form man at present, PJ Redmond,
and his 36 points was to be the best of the day. There were four birdie two's
and the Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by Perry McNeely, Martin Hanfelt
and Anders Pedersen who accomplished the feat twice on the back nine, a rare
event indeed! Visitor Frank Clayton paid the penalty for his boast to Mr.
Loy that he was striking the ball well at the moment and his 18 point total
was more than an excuse for Mr Loy to present him with the Bunker Banana Booby.
Frank, do not be so frank!
Perry's Champagne Golf at Noble Place
A large group of Bunker Boys travelled the rough and rocky road to Noble
Place on Tuesday,
14th October, for their weekly medal round. They found the B and C courses in good
condition after the heavy seasonal rains and a feast of golf was aniticipated
by all golfers. The field was cut into two divisions at eighteen and under
and in division one Magnus Johansson fired and excellent gross 79, net 72,
to grab third place. Second was Bob Morrison, very much on top of his game
at present, with his fine 70, but leading the pack was Gerhard Schulze, playing
off the lower of his two handicaps, with a fine net 69. Division two saw the
highlight of the day as Binni Josteinsson carded an excellent level par 72
for a round that saw him caress and cajole in some monster putts. Playing
in the same four-ball was Les Harber who had even greater success, firing
a total of net 69. The round of the day was produced by Perry McNeely, "holidaying"
from the Phillipines, and the course held no dangers for him as he recorded
a five-under par net 67. Handicap adjustments loom for the latter two players!
There were no birdie two's and this surprised a non-playing Mr. Loy but he
relished awarding the Bunker Banana Booby to John Gregory for his mistaken
advice to his playing group that the competition was stableford based. All
four "scratched" on a hole and therefore disqualified themselves!
John, check the facts before you offer advice next time. Tuesdays are medal
at the Bunker and Thursdays are stableford.
McNeely Does it Again
The Bunker Boys, under the direction of Mr. Loy, took to the notorious
route #331 for the second time in three days, to play their weekly stableford
competition at Treasure Hill on Thursday, 16th October. Despite the absence
of a few regulars, for whom a repeat journey was too much, the twenty players
enjoyed the day on a course much improved and in fine and dry conditions.
The cut was at 18 and under and in division one scratch golfer Keith Smithson
used his wonderful short game to tease 31 points out of the difficult course.
One point ahead of him was Mark Joshua, on 32 and topping the group was Bill
Hewitt, fresh from his break in England. Bill's 34 points was an excellent
achievement, given the course's reputation. Division two players all struggled
and only two managed to top thirty points. Steve Chadwick took third place
with his meagre 23 points and John Gregory entered the clubhouse, smiling,
with 35 points. Way out in front was new Bunker player, Perry McNeely, who
used his PSC USGA handicap of 20 to amass an incredible 40 points. He then
honorably applied for IPGC membership and a handicap more in tune with his
current game. Perry joined Steve Nowell and John Gregory in a share of the
Bunker Super Sawng award, the trio recording birdie two's and smiling Leo
Murphy lapped up the Bunker Banana Booby, swearing that next time he would
improve on his paltry 15 points.
Two Day Team Scramble at Green Valley
Wilf and Remy Scramble to Victory
The Bunker's monthly two-day "fiesta" of golf was held at the
beautifully maintained Green Valley course on Monday and Tuesday, 20-21st October, with a two-player
team scramble. The enjoyable format attracted fifteen teams and the weather
even chose to be favourable for the event as well. As always the course was
beautifully turned out with greens much faster than on many courses currently,
and this was to catch out most players initially. However the field soon found
it's feet and, as with most scrambles, it was very tight at the top of the
leaderboard. Also, not uncommonly, only one player in the top ten teams had
a handicap greater than twenty. At the end of the first day only two shots
covered the first four places, with Wilf Latham and Remy Guy returning a fine
net 65.6, Magnus Johansson and Martin Hanfelt recording 65.2 and the surprising
leaders, Perry McNeely and Gerhard Schulze, topping the chart with net 63.4.
The second day was promising to be a tense affair when the "also-rans"
John Preddy and Len Jones led the field off but they were to be the day's
biggest "improvers" taking seven shots of their first day tally.
Would the leaders do the same? In the tense struggle that followed Bob Lindborg
and partner Lamud set the standard for the day with an excellent net 65.6;
only 0.2 of a shot behind were the two-ball of George "One Ball"
Jackson and Phil Mitchell. Magnus and Martin were to lose a shot to their
first day total. Repeating their first day round of 65.6, the long hitting
of Wilf Latham and the deft touches of Remy Guy around the greens were enough
to see them blow away the efforts of the first day leaders, for whom the wheels
most definitely came off the wagon. Only 0.4 of a shot covered the first three
teams at the end. Consistency is the secret of a winning team and this was
the point proved.
Final results:
1. Wilf Latham & Remy Guy 131.2:
2. Magnus Johansson & Martin Hanfelt 131.4
3 George Jackson & Phil Mitchell 131.6
The Bunker Super Sawng awards for birdie two's went to Wilf and Remy, George
and Phil Mitchell, Klaus Schackt and Ann Kaesavane, Harry Riley and Ciano
Glavina, Gerhard Schulze and Perry McNeely and Keith Smithson and Kevin Taylor
on the first day. On the second day the recipients were Ed and Mam Trayling,
Saranya Chaiyanont and Samantha Burke, Klaus and Ann, Wilf and Remy, George
and Phil and Roy Mitchell and Bill Hewitt.
Remy Storms to the Front at Ban Chang
Century Ban Chang welcomed the Bunker Boys for their weekly stableford
competition on Thursday, 23rd
October, with heavily laden skies and patchy, sanded greens. The two divisions
were cut at 20 and under and it was good to see Paul Butler back in a Bunker
competition again, having finished his work stint in
New Boy Kimber Wins on First Visit
On Tuesday, 28th October, the Bunker Boys left Pattaya for the blue skies at
Century Chonburi for their weekly medal-play tounament. They found a pleasantly
warm day at the end of their travels with clear skies and a refreshing breeze.
But the effects of the recent heavy rain was seen on the course with horrid
greens which were sanded and uncut. Thus putting was to be a lottery and this
was reflected in most of the scores, notably scratch golfer Keith Smithson
for whom putting is fifty percent of his game. The cut was at 16 and under
and it even saw Mr. Loy playing in division two, where steady George Redgewell
used his accuracy to tease a net 77 out of the course. Two shots ahead of
him was Gerhard Schulze, with playing partner Brian Kimber, a new boy at the
Bunker, the only player to beat par on net 70. In division one Bob Morrison
took third place with net 76, behind Steve Nowell, on 73 and Mark Joshua leading
with 72. Unsurprisingly there were no birdie two's and the Bunker Banana Booby
saw three players challenging for the tasty treat, Len Jones, so often a candidate
these days, Mr. Loy, the adjudicator, and David Smith, the eventual recipient.
Century Chonburi? Nice course, shame about the greens.
November 2003
On Thursday, 30th October, three dozen Bunker Boys went to the building site formerly
known as Sri Racha International Golf Club for their weekly stableford event.
Having received a much needed injection of capital the club can now re-invent
itself and become the showpiece of a course that it once was. Top quality
reconstruction work is ongoing and in a few months time the course will be
the envy of many in the area. However, life goes on, and so do the Bunker
Boys, and with the cut at seventeen and under the players took up the gauntlet
on a hot day, with dry fairways, a faulty new scorecard and the fastest greens
ever seen by most of the field. In division two Richard Feltham made his mark
for the first time in a Bunker competition firing a fine 37 points to tie
as runner-up with Len Jones who remarkably managed to put behind him the horrors
of his short game and give some credence to his handicap at last. The day
belonged to amiable giant Jim Payne though as his 39 points was destined to
be the second best score of the tournament. In division one Keith Hector and
Paul Butler made welcome returns but little impact on the leaderboard which
was dominated by the skill of Steve Nowell. His tally of 40 points set him
well on the road to his goal of a single figure handicap. Only one shot behind
was Alan McGrory at the end of a tense struggle and Magnus Johansson posted
a fine 37 points to take third place. Alan McGrory and Keith Smithson recorded
birdie two's to share the Bunker Super Sawng award whilst Kevin Wilson suffered
on the pacy greens and received the Bunker Banana Booby for his low score
of 25 points. Back at the Bunker, in the opinion of all of the players, the
changes at the course and the reversion back to the original design will be
well worth a return visit in the New Year.
Hot Stuff from Icelander Binni
On
Tuesday, 4th November, thirty Bunker Boys decided to touch their caps and
honour the "Old Lady" at Siam Country Club with a visit. She welcomed
them with open arms and put on a good face for their weekly medal competition.
The only blemishes were the uncut fairways and those painfully slow greens
but the two divisions took up the challenge on a course loved by many. Division
one saw Gerhard Schulze take third place with net 72, one shot behind Colin
Wilkes. Way ahead was recently returned Yorkshireman, Keith Hector, who quickly
found his form to record a handicap threatening net 67. Division two saw a
tighter struggle with Aussie Des Pearson "heinekening" his way around
the course to score an excellent net 70 and take third place. One shot ahead
was Canadian visitor Gary Hobbs. The coolest guy on the course was Icelander
Binni Josteinsson and the gentle giant threw up another of his occasionally
blistering rounds, recording net 66. This follows his net 62 on the same course
in June. The Bunker Super Sawng award was shared by a host of players, including
Andy Spence, Ian Phillips, Gerhard Schulze, Mikael Andersson, John King and
Des Pearson whilst the many candidates for the Bunker Banana Booby sighed
with relief when Roy Mann took custody of the prize for his net 99! The last
time he was here he took the booby three times in two weeks and the omens
are not good for him this year!
How the "Hector"'s Keith Do It?
Another page in the annals of sport was written on Thursday, 6th November when the Bunker Boys chose Khao Kheow as the venue for their weekly stableford
tournament which also celebrated Ciano Glavina's birthday. Not only did the
start list include one of the Bunker's oldest combined fourballs (250 plus
years of finely honed athleticism) comprising of John Preddy, Des Pearson,
Leo Murphy and the "junior" Len Jones, but also a golfer destined
to decimate a course for the second time in three days. The C and A nines
were well prepared, at last, for the competition and the two divisions relished
playing there again. For some inexplicable reason most of the scores were
barely average; maybe it was the very humid and hot conditions, the five-hour
round and the moderately paced greens. In division one Jimmy Little and Bill
Hewitt vied for runners-up with their scores of 32 points and could only watch
the disappearing heels of Harry Riley as he raced to a total of 37 points
to take the day. In division two Len Jones posted a meagre 29 points to nab
third place, whilst Ian Phillips fared better with his 33 points total. In
the penultimate playing group Keith Hector, who had fired a net 67 at Siam
only two days previously, was still running hot and took the course apart
with his accurate putting to amass a splendid 41 points, destined to keep
him in the lower division for a long time! Harry Riley posted the day's only
birdie two, thereby winning the Bunker Super Sawng award and his tee shot
on hole C8 also secured for him a gallon of beer, kindly sponsored by Ciano
Glavina. Des Pearson was the recipient of the second gallon for his near-pin
tee shot on hole A5. Two Roy's battled at the bottom end of the leaderboard
for the Bunker Banana Booby and Mr Loy unselfishly awarded it to himself for
his paltry total of 18 points. At the end of the day everyone agreed it was
a fine way to celebrate Ciano's birthday and the talk went on, way into the
night, about Keith Hector's amazing feat.
Neil Griffin is the First of the Few
Golfers have long memories and, after a few weeks of thirty and forty -plus
fields, only fifteen golfers turned up to play in the Bunker's weekly medal
competition at the Royal Thai Navy course at Plutaluang on Tuesday, 11th November. Many had remembered the advice given so publicly by the Manager of the
course, a few weeks ago, "If you object to your round being interrupted
by Military or Government personnel, find another course." They did!
Of the few who played at Plutaluang only Neil Griffin showed any vestige of
form and he managed to take the prize with a fine net 70. Steve Nowell shot
the day's lowest gross, giving him net 76 whilst George Redgewell fired net
77 to take third place. There were no birdie two's but abundant bananas as
Ian Phillips, so often a winner at the Bunker, capped his dismal day by receiving
the Bunker Banana Booby for his net 100. The biggest beneficiary of the day
was Mr. Loy whose task as organiser was made so easy by the "wisdom"
of the admiral at Plutaluang.
Ian Phillips Finishes with a Flourish
Another small field of Bunker Boys took the rocky road to Treasure Hill
on Thursday,
13th November to play the weekly stableford tourney on a day when clouds filled the sky,
rain threatened and a cool breeze blew. Conditions were fine for golf and
the course at Treasure Hill was beautifully prepared. Gone are the anthills,
the uneven tee boxes and the inconsistent greens and the course's condition
at present is the envy of many others in the region. The two divisions met
the usual problems and the tight front nine led to drab scores by the end
of the round. In division one Steve Nowell set out his stall with an excellent
31 points and took the victory from the challenge of Mark Joshua and Tony
Thorne, both recording 29 points. Division two saw better scores and on the
eve of his return to England Big Ian Phillips used his long hitting to good
effect to record a fine 34 points, just holding off the challenge of Duncan
McGee whose 32 points was a measure of his skill on his first visit to the
club. Ian had taken the Banana Booby only two days before for a round of stunning
mediocrity but this time victory was much sweeter. Steve Chadwick and Roy
Mann, so often the custodian of the Bananas on his annual visits, shared the
award this time for their poor scores, which, if added together would have
shared the first prize in division one! Such is the challenge of Treasure
Hill.
Wot? No Roadmaps?
The Bunker's monthly two-day event was held at
Bill Hewitt Bang On at Bangpra
On Thursday, 19th November, another large group of Bunker Boys made a welcome return
to the beautiful course at Bangpra International Golf Club for their weekly
stableford event. The course was immaculately presented with green speeds
matching the enviable reputation they once had, and a pleasantly hot and dry
day augured well for the competition. The large field was split into two divisions
with the cut at 18 and play eventually got under way on the crowded course
near
Mikael Andersson Finds Form at Ban Chang
On Tuesday, 25th November, the Bunker Boys chose Century Ban Chang as the venue
for their weekly medal event and found the green fees hiked and the money
seemingly spent on a full set of locker keys and new blue hats for the male
caddies. Nothing else was new on the course and the challenge of the tight
fairways and raised greens was still very evident. The course was to play
long in the strong breeze which blew all day.The two divisions were cut at
sixteen and in division two Len Jones transformed his woeful chipping and
putting to post a winning score of net 77, just one shot ahead of Saranya
Chaiyanont, David Exley and the returning Gary Austin. Division one saw the
better scores as Perry McNeely shot net 75, and Bill Hewitt scored 73. Alongside
the sixth fairway the rough was being burnt and as it crackled and sizzled
so did Mikael Andersson's game and he ended the day with a fine level par
72. German newcomer Uwe Schröder, playing off ten, shot the day's only birdie
two and received the Bunker Super Sawng award on his first visit whilst hapless
Eddie Grogan fared badly on his first visit to the course and took home the
Bunker Banana Booby for his net 95.
McGee Weaves His Magic at
A smaller-than-usual
group of Bunker Boys took the "highway to Hell" to
December 2003
A field of 40-plus Bunker Boys and Belles travelled to nearby Siam Country
Club on Tuesday, 2nd December, for their weekly medal play tournament in comfortably
warm and dry conditions. They found the course poorly turned out with bare
bunkers and arid, bone-hard fairways, which made good contact essential. For
many, however, it was like playing shots from the car park. The large field
was cut at seventeen and under and division two saw a fine tussle for second
place between Gary Austin and Ed Trayling, who both scored net 69. Paul Rose
was "the man" however and his round of net 68 was enough to win
the division. In division one Paul Butler drove to a successful net 74, for
third place and Bruce Ogilvie took second with his net 73, but way out in
front was the long hitting lady, Usa Chaiyosit, who used the advantage of
a lady's course which was half a kilometre shorter, to teach the boys a lesson
in course management and take the major prize with her net 69. Gary Austin
shot two birdie two's and took the major share of the Bunker Super Sawng award
with Dickie Barbe firing the third birdie two of the day. Nothing showed up
the inconsistencies of golf more than Uwe Schroder's eleven on the seventeenth
and his birdie on the final hole and his net 95 won for him the Bunker Banana
Booby. Nevertheless, most people concluded that a day such as this, on a poor
course, was infinitely better than a good day in an opulent office!
Nowell Does Well at Chonburi
The Bunker Boys travelled to Century Chonburi on Thursday, 4th December, for their weekly stableford round and found the course in excellent shape
under clear skies. The field was cut at eighteen and under and in division
two nobody managed to beat par, probably because the constant watering of
the fairways led to very little run on the ball. Richard Feltham persevered
to gather 32 points but this meagre total was not enough to catch Duncan Lee
and Gary Austin whose 34 points saw them share the prize on the day. In division
one Paul Butler scored 33 points to take third place, with playing partner
Wilf Latham going three better to take second, on 35. The only golfer to break
par on the day was Steve Nowell and his 38 points contrasted with his shabby
showing two days previously with the Bunker. Steve also shared the Bunker
Super Sawng award with playing partner Keith Smithson for their birdie two's
on the short par-three twelfth. At the other end of the field Des Pearson,
English through and through, except for a dash of Heineken and an Aussie accent,
obviously suffered in the heat and his poor card was signed by Mr. Loy. If
you are trying to avoid the bananas Des, hide from the boss!
Collett Collects at Khao Kheow
On Tuesday, 9th December, the Bunker Boys returned to Khao Kheow for their weekly
medal event and found the course with still poor fairways and tee boxes and
greens on the two nines, "A" and "B", of varying and inconsistent
speed. One hole in particular, "A" 9th, had a pin in a position
from which putting was a nightmare, being sited on a slope! Consequently the
two divisions found it hard going on a day when the sun shone and a strong
breeze blew for most of the round. In division two consistent Neil Griffin
took third place with a round of net 80, PJ Redmond took second with two better,
net 78, and Yuzo Nishikawa lorded over the
rest of the division with his net 77. In division one there were many single
figure handicappers who found the going tough but two of them managed to make
the podium. Bob van Mol, off his handicap of six, shot net 77 to tie for runner-up
with Harry Riley and Paul Butler. Leading the field was Hans Collet, playing steadily off nine, who posted a score of net
71, quite an achievement in the circumstances. Al Rolnik took the lion's share
of the Bunker Super Sawng award with his two birdie two's and was joined by
Uwe Schroder, for whom the rest of the round was a nightmare. Brian Cole,
only twelve hours in the Kingdom, found his jetlag too much, as did Mr. Loy,
who found his net 108 too much and presented him with the Bunker Banana Booby.
Welcome back Brian!
Andersson and Redgewell win at Bangpra
Thirty-eight Bunker Boys took the road to Bangpra International Golf Club
on Thursday,
11th December for their weekly stableford event and found the course in excellent condition
with good lies and legendary pacey greens. The field was cut at 15 and in
division two Dave Lee, soon to be the TAGGS "Rabbit" Champion, and
Norm Robinson fought it out for the third place with their scores of 31 points.
Ahead of them, on 34, was Gary Austin, whilst George Redgewell was a country
mile in front with a splendid 41 points. Division one was a tighter contest
as scratch golfer Keith Smithson posted 37 points, one behind Wilf Latham's
38, but Mikael Andersson, a Haven winner the day before, repeated his form
and sped to 40 points to take the top prize. Keith Smithson, George Redgewell,
Terry Phur and Jack Spencer all took a share of the Bunker Super Sawng award
and Duncan Lee suffered another sad display which earned him little sympathy
and the Bunker Banana Booby award.
Larsen & Hedblom Eclectic Winners at
December's monthly Bunker two day event was held at
On Thursday, 18th December, the Bunker Boys sailed in to the Royal Thai Navy course
at Plutaluang for their weekly stableford event and found the South and East
courses well presented on a fine, breezy day. The two divisions were cut at
the usual eighteen and in the first flight a returning Harry Cowling made
his mark with 31 points, joined by fellow Yorkshireman Bill Hewitt and amiable
Irishman PJ Redmond. Ahead was Keith Hector on 32 and Keith Smithson, playing
off scratch, with 33 points. Division two saw the better scores as Len Jones
and Neil Griffin vied for the minor places with their hard won 32 points and
George Redgewell with his solid return of 34. Leading the field, with the
best score of the day, was a man currently in great form, Gary Austin, for
whom his score of 39 points was his second below par score in two days. The
day's only birdie two was achieved by Bill Hewitt whilst playing partner Harry
Cowling, using borrowed clubs, barely troubled the scorer for the first nine
holes and received the Bunker Banana Booby as consolation. The rest of the
field shared an excellent day and extend their best wishes to all Pattaya's
golfers for a peaceful and happy New Year.
Mr. Loy Triumphs Over the Monster
On Tuesday, 23rd December, the Bunker Boys travelled to distant Treasure Hill
to take on the "monster" for their final medal round of the year.
The two flights set out valiantly against the ever tough couse which was beautifully
presented yet again. Blood was drawn on many cards over the opening holes
and, as the drama unfolded, even the low handicappers in division one gasped
in disbelief at the figures they were recording on their cards. As usual,
it was the course "newbies" who performed better, not for them the
demoralising thoughts of holes to come. In division two Brian Bradley's net
82, gave him third place, two shots behind George Redgewell's 80. Showing
a clean pair of heels to the rest of the field was Richard Feltham and his
net 79 took the flight. In division one Takeshi Hakozaki and Keith Smithson
tied for third with an embarrasing net 80, whilst Bill Hewitt and Mr. Loy
fought it out at the top. Bill came in with net 76 but Mr. Loy smote the air
as, for the first time in months, he could lord it at the top of the flight.
His net 74 almost slew the beast and had it not been for losing almost half
his handicap allowance on the par fives he would have been rewarded with the
honour of a below par round. There were two birdie two's and the Bunker Super
Sawng award was shared by Gene Scalf and Sander "Sunny" Ruthsip,
whilst PGA member Keith Smithson had egg on his face when he failed to carry
the ladies' tee on one hole and the Bunker Banana Booby also ended up on his
plate! Better times lie ahead as the New Year approaches and the Bunker Boys
wish to extend to all their good wishes to the Pattaya golfing community.
The fourth annual Bunker Four-Man Team Scramble
Begorrah! Irish Smiles at Pattaya Country Club
Roy
Mitchell and Bunker Boys took the helm of the good ship IPGC Pattaya Golf
Society and set a course for Pattaya Country Club on Tuesday, 30th December, to celebrate the final "major"
of the year, the Bunker annual Four-Man Team Scramble. A hugely popular event,
this year it drew a full house of twenty eight teams, and, as the course was
well presented, a feast of fine golf lay ahead. The scramble format is simple,
play team golf and enjoy the day! The pre-tournament favourites in the shape
of Michael Dige, Anders Pedersen, Gerhard Schulze and Nora Haugsjordet certainly
did that and used their long hitting to squeeze every centimetre out of the
course, posting an early target of net 56.6 and whilst others came close nobody
seriously threatened their score for two hours. Stephen Beard and his team
rued their misfortune on the greens, Bob Pearce and mates were optimistic
that their 58.3 might gain them a place on the podium, but they were to be
usurped by Bob van Mol, the