Tropical Bert's
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Tropical Bert's Golf Section
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Tuesday The 14th December 2011:
Eastern Star ( Stableford) Looks like happy days are here again at the Golf Courses by a look at the numbers who have started out from Tropical Bert’s of late. On this day, the day before numbers were not reached as some last minute illnesses were to the fore, however we still were more than full. Still a call to the Course and an early start were enough to get all the groups off.
From my point of view this Course is the best in the Bang Chang area and whilst other Courses have their supporters the layout of this is the best in my opinion. Mind over the years the greens have always been the hold back, and on this day whilst they were in good condition they could have been better. Hard and fast but not all the same.
Booking in is easy here and we were soon through the changing room and onto the first Tee to be met by a windy day. It was soon away and this Course in the wind is really difficult. On this day the fairways were firm and the rough quite tough. Playing in the wind we visited the rough quite often . So with tough conditions and playing off the white Tees I thought the scores would not be good, but who knows.
The Restaurant here over the years has been amongst my favorites ever since we used to go and they had a Belgium Chef. The food used to be superb. On this day I had the Chefs Salad and it is the first time I have ever had fried sliced white bread in a Salad. Soggy as well. However one of my co players had an excellent Thai Omelet. So luck of the draw.
Back at Bert’s after his Golfers Special, we went into ‘Bert’s Golfers Quiz’ that showed us all how much we do not know, and which Dick Warberg’s Team won, then onto the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 19, the winner was Mike Gaussa with 38 points ahead of John Binns on 37 points in second, Walter Baechli in third on 36 points in third and Derek Brook in fourth on 35 points. In the B Flight Les Charles won with 38 points ahead of a three way countback on 36 points that saw Kevin Dinan in third, Chris Walsh in third and Graham Buckingham in fourth.
We then as usual made the best of Tropical Bert’s ‘Happy Hour’. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Walter Baechli Les Charles
Long Put Kenny Chung Graham Buckingham
Eastern Star ( Stableford) Looks like happy days are here again at the Golf Courses by a look at the numbers who have started out from Tropical Bert’s of late. On this day, the day before numbers were not reached as some last minute illnesses were to the fore, however we still were more than full. Still a call to the Course and an early start were enough to get all the groups off.
From my point of view this Course is the best in the Bang Chang area and whilst other Courses have their supporters the layout of this is the best in my opinion. Mind over the years the greens have always been the hold back, and on this day whilst they were in good condition they could have been better. Hard and fast but not all the same.
Booking in is easy here and we were soon through the changing room and onto the first Tee to be met by a windy day. It was soon away and this Course in the wind is really difficult. On this day the fairways were firm and the rough quite tough. Playing in the wind we visited the rough quite often . So with tough conditions and playing off the white Tees I thought the scores would not be good, but who knows.
The Restaurant here over the years has been amongst my favorites ever since we used to go and they had a Belgium Chef. The food used to be superb. On this day I had the Chefs Salad and it is the first time I have ever had fried sliced white bread in a Salad. Soggy as well. However one of my co players had an excellent Thai Omelet. So luck of the draw.
Back at Bert’s after his Golfers Special, we went into ‘Bert’s Golfers Quiz’ that showed us all how much we do not know, and which Dick Warberg’s Team won, then onto the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 19, the winner was Mike Gaussa with 38 points ahead of John Binns on 37 points in second, Walter Baechli in third on 36 points in third and Derek Brook in fourth on 35 points. In the B Flight Les Charles won with 38 points ahead of a three way countback on 36 points that saw Kevin Dinan in third, Chris Walsh in third and Graham Buckingham in fourth.
We then as usual made the best of Tropical Bert’s ‘Happy Hour’. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Walter Baechli Les Charles
Long Put Kenny Chung Graham Buckingham
Tuesday 15th March 2011:
Pleasant Valley (Stableford) The weather continues to be unsettled and if you get through a round these days without getting wet you are the lucky one. On this day as we drove to Pleasant Valley the skies looked ominous and it seemed as if the dark would not depart. Indeed the closer we got the darker it seemed to get, until when we were nearly there a single beam of light got through and we were in hope.
Even between arriving, getting changed and exiting the Clubhouse, the rain came down, and when we got to the start with the rain stopped we were reminded of the freshness of a golf course after rain. Mind with the Course wet, we could not go on the Course with a Cart.
So the Course was soggy, the greens slow, the rough wicked and all in all a tough day. It did rain a little on the way around, but it was minor and all it did was to cause the humidity to rise. So it was with wet feet that we finally got back to the cars to put the clubs away. Of course this parking area is probably the worst at any course and was muddy and dirty. Thankfully we were soon into the showers and they were nice and warm.
It was not long until we were back at Bert's, the trip back these days is pretty swift and those of us who remember the old days of travel are thankful for the changes. Even if we have to be constantly on the lookout for maintenance of the roads Or potholes. Indeed Tom is going to change his car, after constant tyre problems, and we will soon see him with a bigger model.
So to the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Walter Baechli with 42 points ahead of Brian Parrish with 40 points in second and Brian Gabe in third with 38 points. In the B Flight we had a three way countback on 36 points that saw Bill Knight in first, Carole Kubicki in Second and Tom Cotton in third. What was notable amongst the Technical's was that both Walter and Carole had two each, well done to all the winners. T.T.F.N.
008 Winners and Runners up with one of Bert's finest
Pleasant Valley (Stableford) The weather continues to be unsettled and if you get through a round these days without getting wet you are the lucky one. On this day as we drove to Pleasant Valley the skies looked ominous and it seemed as if the dark would not depart. Indeed the closer we got the darker it seemed to get, until when we were nearly there a single beam of light got through and we were in hope.
Even between arriving, getting changed and exiting the Clubhouse, the rain came down, and when we got to the start with the rain stopped we were reminded of the freshness of a golf course after rain. Mind with the Course wet, we could not go on the Course with a Cart.
So the Course was soggy, the greens slow, the rough wicked and all in all a tough day. It did rain a little on the way around, but it was minor and all it did was to cause the humidity to rise. So it was with wet feet that we finally got back to the cars to put the clubs away. Of course this parking area is probably the worst at any course and was muddy and dirty. Thankfully we were soon into the showers and they were nice and warm.
It was not long until we were back at Bert's, the trip back these days is pretty swift and those of us who remember the old days of travel are thankful for the changes. Even if we have to be constantly on the lookout for maintenance of the roads Or potholes. Indeed Tom is going to change his car, after constant tyre problems, and we will soon see him with a bigger model.
So to the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Walter Baechli with 42 points ahead of Brian Parrish with 40 points in second and Brian Gabe in third with 38 points. In the B Flight we had a three way countback on 36 points that saw Bill Knight in first, Carole Kubicki in Second and Tom Cotton in third. What was notable amongst the Technical's was that both Walter and Carole had two each, well done to all the winners. T.T.F.N.
008 Winners and Runners up with one of Bert's finest
Tuesday The 1st March 2011: Khao Kheow ( Stableford)
Well at least it did not rain so I suppose we got a result. Mind the Caddy did ask if I had a 'Rain Cover' just in case, but lo and behold we got around dry. The skies were overcast, and it was really hot and muggy, but all in all the day was fine and a great success.
The drive up there was nice and slow as befits the driver when the 'Fuel' prices rise, I have no doubt that in a few weeks the rise will be forgotten and we will be back to normal. So onto the Course and the test for the day was to be the C & A Nines. This is to my mind by far the hardest 18 holes, so with rain possible and the Course wet from overnight we elected to play from the 'Mickey Mouse Tees' that is the white here and just hope nobody actually destroyed the Course. This is Khao Kheow so I felt I was on safe ground.
The round went well, the Course was a bit wet so we did not get massive run, the rough was hard to get out of and the greens were very slow, so the ball did not get to the hole. All in all a fine round. So it was soon into the shower, a quick bite in the fine Restaurant and into the car for a smooth drive back down Route 7, what can go wrong!!!!.
As is normal I usually drive out of the old exit, the one straight onto Route 7. It is getting a bit unused now but I have come out of there a dozen times. The road is not very clean now, and as I got onto Route 7 a noise was heard from the back, a check spotted nothing but down the road the rear tyre went flat. It is quite exciting changing a tyre on route 7. Still today I found it was a nail so from now on it is down the clean road.
Back at Bert's it was soon time for the results. In the A Flight, 0 to 16, the winner was Brian Parrish with 37 points ahead of a countback on 36 points that saw Doug Maiko in Second and Richard Kubicki in third. In the B Flight the winner was Karen Brown with the best score of the day 39 points. In second was Tom Cotton with 35 points and in third was Henry Wong with 32 points. Then time for a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook Brian Parrish Walter Bachli Richard Kubicki
Long Put Walter Bachli Paul Alford
003 Winners and Runners Up
Well at least it did not rain so I suppose we got a result. Mind the Caddy did ask if I had a 'Rain Cover' just in case, but lo and behold we got around dry. The skies were overcast, and it was really hot and muggy, but all in all the day was fine and a great success.
The drive up there was nice and slow as befits the driver when the 'Fuel' prices rise, I have no doubt that in a few weeks the rise will be forgotten and we will be back to normal. So onto the Course and the test for the day was to be the C & A Nines. This is to my mind by far the hardest 18 holes, so with rain possible and the Course wet from overnight we elected to play from the 'Mickey Mouse Tees' that is the white here and just hope nobody actually destroyed the Course. This is Khao Kheow so I felt I was on safe ground.
The round went well, the Course was a bit wet so we did not get massive run, the rough was hard to get out of and the greens were very slow, so the ball did not get to the hole. All in all a fine round. So it was soon into the shower, a quick bite in the fine Restaurant and into the car for a smooth drive back down Route 7, what can go wrong!!!!.
As is normal I usually drive out of the old exit, the one straight onto Route 7. It is getting a bit unused now but I have come out of there a dozen times. The road is not very clean now, and as I got onto Route 7 a noise was heard from the back, a check spotted nothing but down the road the rear tyre went flat. It is quite exciting changing a tyre on route 7. Still today I found it was a nail so from now on it is down the clean road.
Back at Bert's it was soon time for the results. In the A Flight, 0 to 16, the winner was Brian Parrish with 37 points ahead of a countback on 36 points that saw Doug Maiko in Second and Richard Kubicki in third. In the B Flight the winner was Karen Brown with the best score of the day 39 points. In second was Tom Cotton with 35 points and in third was Henry Wong with 32 points. Then time for a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook Brian Parrish Walter Bachli Richard Kubicki
Long Put Walter Bachli Paul Alford
003 Winners and Runners Up
Tuesday The 22nd February 2011: Mountain Shadow (Stableford)
These reports are all getting to be the same, and today's is not going to be any different. So let's get on with it. Well we started and after a few holes the Heavens opened and it poured down. Being out on the Course and not near a rest stop, we all got soaked and from a good score going the round fell away. Wow, I certainly feel a lot better for putting down the same as I have for the last few weeks.
We were just about to play the par 5 around the Lake and of course as the rain got harder the Lake got bigger, well it did not really but it sounded better as ball after ball went for a swim. Even Mashi put his ball in there. Keith was more than pleased that he had stopped on the way to Bert's in the morning for 'Super Glue' as he could now use it on both pairs of spikes. Those with the sole dropping off from his last game and today's which would start falling off shortly. So upset was Keith that he managed to leave his phone in the cart, and as all know, never to be seen again. Whilst getting the number back is no problem, I think many people will not be getting a call from him.
Incidentally, the Course is not in bad condition, when dry, and well worth the PSC Rate.
So back at Bert's, late as usual these days, it was time for the results and as usual at Mountain Shadow, they were not high and nobody shot near their handicap. Rain plus Blue Tees took their toll. Winner with 34 points was the steady Rob Brown on countback over Paul Edgar in second. In third was Brian Downey with 32 points and in fourth was Brian Parrish with 29 points.
The time flies here in Pattaya, and it was once again time for Golfer Of The Month. One of the Golfers we have been hoping can sneak in as Golfer of the Month for some time is Rob Brown. Rob is 'Careful' of how he wastes his money and has a favourite plastic bag he takes his clothes in to change after the golf. It is however getting a bit 'Tatty' so a new plastic bag would go down well. It just so happened the Golfer of the Month was Rob Brown. Well done Rob, and Rob appreciated the first bag we presented him with as much as the second. I wonder which he will use. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Richard Kubicki Paul Alford Paul Edgar Brian Downey
Long Put Frank Pilkington Brian Parrish
These reports are all getting to be the same, and today's is not going to be any different. So let's get on with it. Well we started and after a few holes the Heavens opened and it poured down. Being out on the Course and not near a rest stop, we all got soaked and from a good score going the round fell away. Wow, I certainly feel a lot better for putting down the same as I have for the last few weeks.
We were just about to play the par 5 around the Lake and of course as the rain got harder the Lake got bigger, well it did not really but it sounded better as ball after ball went for a swim. Even Mashi put his ball in there. Keith was more than pleased that he had stopped on the way to Bert's in the morning for 'Super Glue' as he could now use it on both pairs of spikes. Those with the sole dropping off from his last game and today's which would start falling off shortly. So upset was Keith that he managed to leave his phone in the cart, and as all know, never to be seen again. Whilst getting the number back is no problem, I think many people will not be getting a call from him.
Incidentally, the Course is not in bad condition, when dry, and well worth the PSC Rate.
So back at Bert's, late as usual these days, it was time for the results and as usual at Mountain Shadow, they were not high and nobody shot near their handicap. Rain plus Blue Tees took their toll. Winner with 34 points was the steady Rob Brown on countback over Paul Edgar in second. In third was Brian Downey with 32 points and in fourth was Brian Parrish with 29 points.
The time flies here in Pattaya, and it was once again time for Golfer Of The Month. One of the Golfers we have been hoping can sneak in as Golfer of the Month for some time is Rob Brown. Rob is 'Careful' of how he wastes his money and has a favourite plastic bag he takes his clothes in to change after the golf. It is however getting a bit 'Tatty' so a new plastic bag would go down well. It just so happened the Golfer of the Month was Rob Brown. Well done Rob, and Rob appreciated the first bag we presented him with as much as the second. I wonder which he will use. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Richard Kubicki Paul Alford Paul Edgar Brian Downey
Long Put Frank Pilkington Brian Parrish
Tuesday The 8th February 2011: Khao Kheow ( Stableford)
The trip to Khao Kheow these days is just a bimble up the road for half an hour or so, and on this morning with a 1030am start we were able to have a relaxing late departure from Bert's in order to be on time. Even then we were on the first tee early and were still able to get away a bit early.
The test for the day was to be the A & B Nines, and with a superb temperature the only worry was the strong wind that seems to blow all the time of late. Once onto the Course we soon settled down and although strong the wind seemed to blow strong then die away. It was very changeable and thus difficult to play golf in.
The Course itself was in super condition with clean cut fairways, tough rough and all in all a real picture. The only slight negative was that the greens were a little uncut, but with the speed still there we finally thought that if cut shorter they would be really tricky. Still we soon got around. It is always a pleasure to sit in the restaurant as the view is tremendous, and the food is also very good, but soon all good things must come to an end and it was into transport and back to Bert's.
Back at Bert's players tucked into 'Bert's Golfers Special' which was Burger and Chips then on with the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Mashi Kaneta with 37 points, we then had a countback on 36 points that saw Brian Gabe in second and Dick Warberg in third with Frank Pilkington just losing out. In the B Flight it was 'Ladies Day' with Carole Kubicki winning with 34 points on countback over Karen Brown in second. Jack Robertson was third with 30 points.
The day over we then had a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook (2) Richard Kubicki Mashi
Long Put Walter Bachli Mashi
001 Both Winners with Second in A Flight and Third in B Flight
The trip to Khao Kheow these days is just a bimble up the road for half an hour or so, and on this morning with a 1030am start we were able to have a relaxing late departure from Bert's in order to be on time. Even then we were on the first tee early and were still able to get away a bit early.
The test for the day was to be the A & B Nines, and with a superb temperature the only worry was the strong wind that seems to blow all the time of late. Once onto the Course we soon settled down and although strong the wind seemed to blow strong then die away. It was very changeable and thus difficult to play golf in.
The Course itself was in super condition with clean cut fairways, tough rough and all in all a real picture. The only slight negative was that the greens were a little uncut, but with the speed still there we finally thought that if cut shorter they would be really tricky. Still we soon got around. It is always a pleasure to sit in the restaurant as the view is tremendous, and the food is also very good, but soon all good things must come to an end and it was into transport and back to Bert's.
Back at Bert's players tucked into 'Bert's Golfers Special' which was Burger and Chips then on with the presentation. In the A Flight, 0 to 17, the winner was Mashi Kaneta with 37 points, we then had a countback on 36 points that saw Brian Gabe in second and Dick Warberg in third with Frank Pilkington just losing out. In the B Flight it was 'Ladies Day' with Carole Kubicki winning with 34 points on countback over Karen Brown in second. Jack Robertson was third with 30 points.
The day over we then had a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook (2) Richard Kubicki Mashi
Long Put Walter Bachli Mashi
001 Both Winners with Second in A Flight and Third in B Flight
Tuesday The 25th January 2011:
Mountain Shadow ( Stableford) The "Boys and Girls' quite like playing Mountain Shadow, and it is slowly gaining favour as one of our regular Courses. Of course it has taken some serious thought as I remember this Course as being the most difficult of all the Courses here in this area and players not wanting to go because the Course destroyed them. Get a ball amongst the trees and try to get out, and the greens are not just difficult but at times almost impossible. I remember days when no one beat thirty points, and this was on a regular basis. Wow what a monster.
On this day we got to the start to find that all players were playing from the 10th Tee and we had a howling wind. So reverting to discussing the situation with the 'Committee!!!' we played off the White Tees, which here are the forward Tees , and what a good decision, as it made for a great day, if windblown. However that is the new philosophy for here, play off the white tees and all the players love the Course and want to come back. A bit of lateral thinking as long as you have Golfers who are just out for a great day.
The Course on the day was in reasonable condition, and with the strong wind the day turned out to be difficult. The greens as said were really tricky and with the wind became nearly unplayable at times, get above the hole on some greens and see where the ball goes, it could be interesting. It could go on routes you could not guess.
Well we got around and were soon back on the road to Bert's, fortunately Mountain Shadow is between Sukhumwit and Route 7 so you can come back either way. I guess that for me Sukhumwit is too busy at that time so I usually go on Route 7.
Back at Bert's the players were tucking into 'The Golfers Special', Bert's Bangers and Mash, and good it was as well. Then onto the winners, and the old 'War Horse' came back to life, with 38 points Dick Warberg was the winner. In second we had a countback on 34 points that was to prove quite important. In second was Tony Scambler and third was Brian Parrish. In fourth with 33 points was Rob Brown.
Arriving in the morning at Bert's I was surprised when one of the players asked where we were going next Tuesday because I had not realised it was the last Tuesday of the month and 'The Golfer of The Month'. In fact it took me some time to check the papers to realise who was winning.So with the situation that anyone could win out we went. The countback on this day was important as with Tony Scambler coming second he slipped into the lead. So the very surprised 'Golfer of the Month' was Tony Scambler. Well done Tony. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown (2) Richard Kubicki Walter Bachli
Long Put Walter Bachli Derek Brook
A surprised Tony Scrambler wins Golfer of the Month Presented by Dick Warberg
First Four with one of Bert's finest.
Mountain Shadow ( Stableford) The "Boys and Girls' quite like playing Mountain Shadow, and it is slowly gaining favour as one of our regular Courses. Of course it has taken some serious thought as I remember this Course as being the most difficult of all the Courses here in this area and players not wanting to go because the Course destroyed them. Get a ball amongst the trees and try to get out, and the greens are not just difficult but at times almost impossible. I remember days when no one beat thirty points, and this was on a regular basis. Wow what a monster.
On this day we got to the start to find that all players were playing from the 10th Tee and we had a howling wind. So reverting to discussing the situation with the 'Committee!!!' we played off the White Tees, which here are the forward Tees , and what a good decision, as it made for a great day, if windblown. However that is the new philosophy for here, play off the white tees and all the players love the Course and want to come back. A bit of lateral thinking as long as you have Golfers who are just out for a great day.
The Course on the day was in reasonable condition, and with the strong wind the day turned out to be difficult. The greens as said were really tricky and with the wind became nearly unplayable at times, get above the hole on some greens and see where the ball goes, it could be interesting. It could go on routes you could not guess.
Well we got around and were soon back on the road to Bert's, fortunately Mountain Shadow is between Sukhumwit and Route 7 so you can come back either way. I guess that for me Sukhumwit is too busy at that time so I usually go on Route 7.
Back at Bert's the players were tucking into 'The Golfers Special', Bert's Bangers and Mash, and good it was as well. Then onto the winners, and the old 'War Horse' came back to life, with 38 points Dick Warberg was the winner. In second we had a countback on 34 points that was to prove quite important. In second was Tony Scambler and third was Brian Parrish. In fourth with 33 points was Rob Brown.
Arriving in the morning at Bert's I was surprised when one of the players asked where we were going next Tuesday because I had not realised it was the last Tuesday of the month and 'The Golfer of The Month'. In fact it took me some time to check the papers to realise who was winning.So with the situation that anyone could win out we went. The countback on this day was important as with Tony Scambler coming second he slipped into the lead. So the very surprised 'Golfer of the Month' was Tony Scambler. Well done Tony. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown (2) Richard Kubicki Walter Bachli
Long Put Walter Bachli Derek Brook
A surprised Tony Scrambler wins Golfer of the Month Presented by Dick Warberg
First Four with one of Bert's finest.
Tuesday The 11th January 2011: Greenwood ( Stableford)
The test for the day was to be Greenwood and when we got there we were told we were to play the A & B Nines, not a bad day out when the Sun is out and the weather is at it's best.
The day brought only 4 Groups as this was also the first day of The PSC Club Championships, some played this and the rest opted for a nice quiet day, on a fine Course that was not overfull. Besides we do not all wish for glory or need another shirt.
So after a quiet breakfast at Bert's off we went to this all around favourite of many of the players at Bert's. As said, the Course was in fine condition and the weather great, although as we went around it started to get a little warm, but with a light breeze it could not have been much better. The Course itself was in it's usual fine condition, so I expected some good scores, but in this I was to be a little disappointed and surprised.
It did not take us long to get around, with the fairways in good condition and the greens really good but the ball not going into the hole. So round over it was into the showers and a quick bite on the 'Terrace' until we were all in, fed and watered and then on our way back to Pattaya.
Back at 'The Ranch' alias Bert's, the player consumed his 'Golfers Special' then it was onto the results. The scores were pretty average, but the winner on the day was Brian Downey with 33 points. Then the result of not just 'The Year' but of the past 'Long Time' as one of our Golfers who turns up week after week and is never in the first three. Keith Phillips came in second with 32 points, and if he had not 'Faded' in the last 5 holes, he would have won for the first time in his golfing life. A particularly well done Keith. In third was Bill Knight with 31 points ahead of Pekka Mustonen on countback. Then it was time for Bert's Happy Hour and a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Bill Knight Tom Cotton
Long Put Brian Parrish John Heffernan
The test for the day was to be Greenwood and when we got there we were told we were to play the A & B Nines, not a bad day out when the Sun is out and the weather is at it's best.
The day brought only 4 Groups as this was also the first day of The PSC Club Championships, some played this and the rest opted for a nice quiet day, on a fine Course that was not overfull. Besides we do not all wish for glory or need another shirt.
So after a quiet breakfast at Bert's off we went to this all around favourite of many of the players at Bert's. As said, the Course was in fine condition and the weather great, although as we went around it started to get a little warm, but with a light breeze it could not have been much better. The Course itself was in it's usual fine condition, so I expected some good scores, but in this I was to be a little disappointed and surprised.
It did not take us long to get around, with the fairways in good condition and the greens really good but the ball not going into the hole. So round over it was into the showers and a quick bite on the 'Terrace' until we were all in, fed and watered and then on our way back to Pattaya.
Back at 'The Ranch' alias Bert's, the player consumed his 'Golfers Special' then it was onto the results. The scores were pretty average, but the winner on the day was Brian Downey with 33 points. Then the result of not just 'The Year' but of the past 'Long Time' as one of our Golfers who turns up week after week and is never in the first three. Keith Phillips came in second with 32 points, and if he had not 'Faded' in the last 5 holes, he would have won for the first time in his golfing life. A particularly well done Keith. In third was Bill Knight with 31 points ahead of Pekka Mustonen on countback. Then it was time for Bert's Happy Hour and a few 'Cold Uns'. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Bill Knight Tom Cotton
Long Put Brian Parrish John Heffernan
Tuesday The 4th January 2011: Khao Kheow ( Stableford)
This is always one of the best outings of the month, we all look forward to playing this Course and when it is in good condition it is as good as any. Also as difficult as any, a real test of Golf.
This day we met at Bert's as usual, most quite pleased that the holidays were over. They are fine for families but all it means for many here is a disruption in Paradise and higher prices. Still at least off we went to K.K. for a normal day out, and to be windblown.
Driving into K.K the trees were being blown about and it was obvious that the day was going to be difficult, however a quick book in and we were soon at the first tee, in what seemed like a howling gale. The wind was across us so a big boomerang off the first was quite normal. One good thing was the Course was fairly quiet so once we were off , we saw little ahead of us and were able to get around in good time if a little windblown.
The test on the day were the A & B Nines, this for me is the best 18 holes and we found that on the day both nines were in fine condition. The fairways were clean and if the rough was a little tougher than normal it was still well playable. One really good point was that the greens were really good and were a real test on the day.
Soon round we met in the very fine Restaurant which overlooks the Course and has fine views. Then it was into cars and back down Route 7 to Bert's. This transport system to the Courses has improved 'out of sight' these days and usually knocks 15 minutes or so off a trip.
Back at Bert's after 'The Golfers Special' it was time for the results and with us playing off The White Tees on the day some fine scores were expected. Well we got them, and the winner on the day was Walter Bachli with a stunning 44 points. In second was Derek Brook, slowly coming back to form after changing his driver, with a very good 39 points. In third we had John Heffernan with 37 points and in fourth was Daryl Evans with 36 points on countback over Phil Barnsley in fifth. Presentation over we then enjoyed a few 'Cold Uns' in Happy Hour. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Brian Parish Mashi Kaneta Peter Kelly Derek Brook
Long Put Derek Brook Steve Hamstad
This is always one of the best outings of the month, we all look forward to playing this Course and when it is in good condition it is as good as any. Also as difficult as any, a real test of Golf.
This day we met at Bert's as usual, most quite pleased that the holidays were over. They are fine for families but all it means for many here is a disruption in Paradise and higher prices. Still at least off we went to K.K. for a normal day out, and to be windblown.
Driving into K.K the trees were being blown about and it was obvious that the day was going to be difficult, however a quick book in and we were soon at the first tee, in what seemed like a howling gale. The wind was across us so a big boomerang off the first was quite normal. One good thing was the Course was fairly quiet so once we were off , we saw little ahead of us and were able to get around in good time if a little windblown.
The test on the day were the A & B Nines, this for me is the best 18 holes and we found that on the day both nines were in fine condition. The fairways were clean and if the rough was a little tougher than normal it was still well playable. One really good point was that the greens were really good and were a real test on the day.
Soon round we met in the very fine Restaurant which overlooks the Course and has fine views. Then it was into cars and back down Route 7 to Bert's. This transport system to the Courses has improved 'out of sight' these days and usually knocks 15 minutes or so off a trip.
Back at Bert's after 'The Golfers Special' it was time for the results and with us playing off The White Tees on the day some fine scores were expected. Well we got them, and the winner on the day was Walter Bachli with a stunning 44 points. In second was Derek Brook, slowly coming back to form after changing his driver, with a very good 39 points. In third we had John Heffernan with 37 points and in fourth was Daryl Evans with 36 points on countback over Phil Barnsley in fifth. Presentation over we then enjoyed a few 'Cold Uns' in Happy Hour. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Brian Parish Mashi Kaneta Peter Kelly Derek Brook
Long Put Derek Brook Steve Hamstad
Tuesday The 27th December 2010: Pleasant Valley ( Stableford)
The last Tuesday of the month is always a little different as we look at the best performer of the month and it usually turns out very tight. This month was no different and we had only four players in with a chance. Leading was Brian Parrish with Rob Brown and Walter Bachli just behind and Frank Pilkington as usual in with a chance.
The test for the day was to Pleasant Valley and as we had not played for a few weeks at this Course we were looking forward to what condition it were in. So bright and early we were into cars and up the road to the Course, to be met with the comment that we were not booked in and they would like to talk to the 'Boss', as soon as our first player got there. Amazingly they already had a plan to 'Feed' us in. Surprisingly!! they had a large group booked in playing 'Shotgun'. But not on all Tees.
The situation is not unknown to all the groups who play here in Pattaya, you book first and a big Group book, and suddenly they 'Lose' your booking. Good commercial sense in one way, but very annoying. Loss of face is a major problem.
Still, after 'Discussion', off we went to the first tee and slipped in amongst the 'Shotgun'. Not too bad really and we were all underway within the hour. Still it meant a spread group and we found as the round went on and the 'Shotgun' groups dropped out, big spaces developed as we came to the 18th hole. Different I have to say. The Course itself was in as good a condition as most of the Courses here and better than nearly all. The fairways were well grassed, the rough well maintained and the greens slippery and fast. With the weather also playing the game the day developed into a most enjoyable outing despite our start. Must be getting old as one thing you learn here is to stay calm and roll with the waves.
The showers are fine here and with a new Clubhouse the wait till you go back is a time peacefully spent. You can sit outside on the balcony and watch as the golfer come up the 18th hole. Very nice.
Back at Bert's we were met with a nice surprise as Bert and Pu had provided a free Xmas meal for all the golfers of Turkey and chips with pickles, and bread and butter. Bert also told me it was not left over Turkey but a Turkey he had cooked specially for the golfers. All the golfers expressed their appreciation to Bert and Pu, not just for the food but the way he looks after them all through the year.
As the results came in it was obvious we would have a tight race for golfer of the month and Brian Parrish had to come in at least third to win if Walter came in second. On the day the winner was Phil ( Badger) Barnsley with a great 42 points, 26 of them on the front nine. Second was Walter Bachli with a fine 40 points and in third we had Brian Gabe on countback with 36 points over Brian Parrish in fourth.
So the Golfer of the Month with his second place, and Brian Parrish losing third on countback, was Walter Bachli. Well done Walter. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook Badger (2) Brian Downey
Long Put Mashi Rob Brown
The last Tuesday of the month is always a little different as we look at the best performer of the month and it usually turns out very tight. This month was no different and we had only four players in with a chance. Leading was Brian Parrish with Rob Brown and Walter Bachli just behind and Frank Pilkington as usual in with a chance.
The test for the day was to Pleasant Valley and as we had not played for a few weeks at this Course we were looking forward to what condition it were in. So bright and early we were into cars and up the road to the Course, to be met with the comment that we were not booked in and they would like to talk to the 'Boss', as soon as our first player got there. Amazingly they already had a plan to 'Feed' us in. Surprisingly!! they had a large group booked in playing 'Shotgun'. But not on all Tees.
The situation is not unknown to all the groups who play here in Pattaya, you book first and a big Group book, and suddenly they 'Lose' your booking. Good commercial sense in one way, but very annoying. Loss of face is a major problem.
Still, after 'Discussion', off we went to the first tee and slipped in amongst the 'Shotgun'. Not too bad really and we were all underway within the hour. Still it meant a spread group and we found as the round went on and the 'Shotgun' groups dropped out, big spaces developed as we came to the 18th hole. Different I have to say. The Course itself was in as good a condition as most of the Courses here and better than nearly all. The fairways were well grassed, the rough well maintained and the greens slippery and fast. With the weather also playing the game the day developed into a most enjoyable outing despite our start. Must be getting old as one thing you learn here is to stay calm and roll with the waves.
The showers are fine here and with a new Clubhouse the wait till you go back is a time peacefully spent. You can sit outside on the balcony and watch as the golfer come up the 18th hole. Very nice.
Back at Bert's we were met with a nice surprise as Bert and Pu had provided a free Xmas meal for all the golfers of Turkey and chips with pickles, and bread and butter. Bert also told me it was not left over Turkey but a Turkey he had cooked specially for the golfers. All the golfers expressed their appreciation to Bert and Pu, not just for the food but the way he looks after them all through the year.
As the results came in it was obvious we would have a tight race for golfer of the month and Brian Parrish had to come in at least third to win if Walter came in second. On the day the winner was Phil ( Badger) Barnsley with a great 42 points, 26 of them on the front nine. Second was Walter Bachli with a fine 40 points and in third we had Brian Gabe on countback with 36 points over Brian Parrish in fourth.
So the Golfer of the Month with his second place, and Brian Parrish losing third on countback, was Walter Bachli. Well done Walter. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Derek Brook Badger (2) Brian Downey
Long Put Mashi Rob Brown
Tuesday The 21st December 2010: Greenwood (Stableford)
It only seemed like a few days since we were last there, in fact I suppose it was seeing as we played there on Friday in the PSC Monthly. On this day the Course was really quiet and we just about had it to ourselves. This is really very surprising as this is the 'High Season' and one would expect it to be really busy. I suppose this is how we see the rest of the area normally, but quiet at present.
So up to Greenwood and out onto a nearly empty Course. I actually thought the Course was in better condition than last Friday, maybe less rain in the last few days and in fact the carts were allowed on the Course. The fairways were still a bit wet and the ball picked up lumps of wet mud, but all in all in pretty good condition. The rough was difficult but I thought the greens could have been cut shorter and thus they played slow.
We were soon around with no one in front of us and into the showers. then into the outside Restaurant. The weather was superb so it was a pleasure just to sit there and let the World pass by. Then into cars and back to Bert's.
Bert's special was 'Burger and Chips' and we got back just in time for 'Happy Hour', good timing. Bert does take care of his Golfers as he also does a 'Golfers Breakfast'. All the Golfers say thank to Bert and Pu for looking after them and wish them A Very Merry Xmas and a fine and Happy New Year.
So to the presentations and we put out 4 near pins and of course playing the A & C Nines no player got on the two long Par 3's. So the winner on the day was Rob Brown with 36 points ahead of Brian Parrish with 35 points. In third we had Mashi Kaneta with 34 points on countback over Koji Yamada in fourth. With two Par 3's with no one on we had a fifth with Derek Brook beating Brian Gabe on countback. So onto the cold uns. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown (2)
Long Put Jack Robertson Mashi Kaneta
It only seemed like a few days since we were last there, in fact I suppose it was seeing as we played there on Friday in the PSC Monthly. On this day the Course was really quiet and we just about had it to ourselves. This is really very surprising as this is the 'High Season' and one would expect it to be really busy. I suppose this is how we see the rest of the area normally, but quiet at present.
So up to Greenwood and out onto a nearly empty Course. I actually thought the Course was in better condition than last Friday, maybe less rain in the last few days and in fact the carts were allowed on the Course. The fairways were still a bit wet and the ball picked up lumps of wet mud, but all in all in pretty good condition. The rough was difficult but I thought the greens could have been cut shorter and thus they played slow.
We were soon around with no one in front of us and into the showers. then into the outside Restaurant. The weather was superb so it was a pleasure just to sit there and let the World pass by. Then into cars and back to Bert's.
Bert's special was 'Burger and Chips' and we got back just in time for 'Happy Hour', good timing. Bert does take care of his Golfers as he also does a 'Golfers Breakfast'. All the Golfers say thank to Bert and Pu for looking after them and wish them A Very Merry Xmas and a fine and Happy New Year.
So to the presentations and we put out 4 near pins and of course playing the A & C Nines no player got on the two long Par 3's. So the winner on the day was Rob Brown with 36 points ahead of Brian Parrish with 35 points. In third we had Mashi Kaneta with 34 points on countback over Koji Yamada in fourth. With two Par 3's with no one on we had a fifth with Derek Brook beating Brian Gabe on countback. So onto the cold uns. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown (2)
Long Put Jack Robertson Mashi Kaneta
Tuesday The 14th December 2010: The Emerald ( Stableford)
The selection of Courses to play can be very difficult as sometimes you book trhem six weeks in advance and conditions can change. One week you play a Course and say we will have to play it next month because it is so good, then you play it and they have sanded the greens etc. Some Courses are so good all the time, and well priced, you automatically put them down, most organisers put Greenwood in this bracket at present. Some are so disliked by me I only put them down under pressure from the other golfers, no need to guess which. Some are so disliked we never book them, mind other groups play them regularly. Some are so costly we also almost never book them for a different reason. Others we play because they have great green fees and the exchange rate is not good.
On this day we nipped down to The Emerald. the last time we played the Emerald we all enjoyed it, it was in really good condition and the weather was fine. The first thing noticeable on this day was that the wind was very strong and it had been raining the day before so the ground was very wet in some areas. What was the Course like.
This Course is well used at present, and we had a very early start. The fairways were wet and I found the rough long and difficult. I also thought the fairways were not as good as they were last month,maybe due to use. Good for the Course. To me the major problem were the greens, I do not think the holes have been changed for a long time with chunks out of the lips. Some greens also had the residue of sand on. Still we got around fairly quickly. The scores were also not good. Great last month, not as good this month, how about next month?. Mind many of out players thought the Course well worth the green fee. Play well and what a great Course, play bad, nuff said.
Back at Bert's the results were called and not surprisingly no one beat their handicap. Winner in the A Flight, 0 to 16, was Walter Baechli with 36 points ahead of Brian Gabe in second with 34 points on countback over Dick Warberg in third. In the B Flight the winner was Frank Pilkington with 34 points ahead of Mick O'Meara in second with 32 points and in third was Les Charles with 31 points.
One good thing about having an early start is that you get back just in time for Happy Hour, and Bert's 'Golfers Special' seems to taste better. Thanks Bert and Pu for looking after the Golfers so well. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown Derek Brook Carole Kubicki Frank Pilkington
Long Put Brian Parrish Keith Phillips
The selection of Courses to play can be very difficult as sometimes you book trhem six weeks in advance and conditions can change. One week you play a Course and say we will have to play it next month because it is so good, then you play it and they have sanded the greens etc. Some Courses are so good all the time, and well priced, you automatically put them down, most organisers put Greenwood in this bracket at present. Some are so disliked by me I only put them down under pressure from the other golfers, no need to guess which. Some are so disliked we never book them, mind other groups play them regularly. Some are so costly we also almost never book them for a different reason. Others we play because they have great green fees and the exchange rate is not good.
On this day we nipped down to The Emerald. the last time we played the Emerald we all enjoyed it, it was in really good condition and the weather was fine. The first thing noticeable on this day was that the wind was very strong and it had been raining the day before so the ground was very wet in some areas. What was the Course like.
This Course is well used at present, and we had a very early start. The fairways were wet and I found the rough long and difficult. I also thought the fairways were not as good as they were last month,maybe due to use. Good for the Course. To me the major problem were the greens, I do not think the holes have been changed for a long time with chunks out of the lips. Some greens also had the residue of sand on. Still we got around fairly quickly. The scores were also not good. Great last month, not as good this month, how about next month?. Mind many of out players thought the Course well worth the green fee. Play well and what a great Course, play bad, nuff said.
Back at Bert's the results were called and not surprisingly no one beat their handicap. Winner in the A Flight, 0 to 16, was Walter Baechli with 36 points ahead of Brian Gabe in second with 34 points on countback over Dick Warberg in third. In the B Flight the winner was Frank Pilkington with 34 points ahead of Mick O'Meara in second with 32 points and in third was Les Charles with 31 points.
One good thing about having an early start is that you get back just in time for Happy Hour, and Bert's 'Golfers Special' seems to taste better. Thanks Bert and Pu for looking after the Golfers so well. T.T.F.N.
Near Pin Rob Brown Derek Brook Carole Kubicki Frank Pilkington
Long Put Brian Parrish Keith Phillips
