A Big Tip at Lakeside

It was Royal Lakeside’s turn to host the Pattaya Links Golf Society on Wednesday, 29th May and the return of a few old friends made the day more enjoyable. The course was well presented but fairways were soft and a little fluffy as a result of the ubiquitous “Bangkok” daily rains but the lightly sanded greens were quicker than most in the region currently.

The single flight adopted preferred lies for the day and it soon became apparent that scores would be good. Indeed, a full field average of 34 points spoke volumes about the quality of the field and the golf course.

All the sub-par scorers were rewarded at the presentation, with fifth place going to Bryan Dore, losing on countback, with 37 points. Ahead of him was Michael Wright and in third place was Jon Batty, both with 37 points also. Second place went to Peter Park with another fine round of 39 points giving him the best gross score of the day, 74.

The flight winner was American regular Tip Briney who produced some consummate golf for his best score ever with the group, 43 points. His club control belied his high handicap and his putting was spot on from the start, never suffering three putts on a hole. A hot tip is always very welcome!

Technicals in the form of “near pins” went to Maurice Roberts (3), John Doyle (6), Petur Petursson (12) and Phil Davies (15).

The best front nine award went to Mark Sharp with 20 points whilst the back nine winner was Iain Jones with 19 points.

Winners Royal Lakeside

1^st  Place – Tip Briney (28) -43 pts

2^nd Place – Peter Park (4) – 39 pts

3^rd Place – Jon Batty (7) – 37 pts c/back

4^th Place –  Michael Wright (7) – 37 pts c/back

5^th Place –  Bryan Dore (5) – 37 pts.

Long time member Alan Walker, newly returned from Australia posted a level par front nine score but succumbed to “anno domini” and back problems on the back nine to take the “silly hat” award with 11 points.

Jim Norkett was left with the “wig” after Bernie Stafford’s absence from the presentation indicated he suspected it may have been his turn. Tough on Jim, don’t you think?