RBSC ELITE MARCH 2012 by Simon Nathan

March 2012

Contents CLUB

Competitions

Club Championship, Senior Club Championship & RBSC Chairman’s Cup

RBSC vs. RSGC Interport Match History Repeats as Guests and Hosts Stage Valiant Fight in the Battle of Equals!

RBSC vs. SICC Interport Match Hosts Record Outright Win against Friends from SingaporeS’porean Methis Johnson Drills Hole-in-One!

Prince Chula Chakrabongse Cup Dr. Yolvilai Succeeds in this One-of-a-kind Bogey ‘Operation’!

ELITE 20 ELITE 46 48 GOLF 49

Interview

IN 51 52 54

The News

Etihad Airways Announces Launch of Its Third Daily Bangkok-Abu Dhabi Service

CLUB 56

40 22

Now You Can Lose Your Mobile Phone...?!

Profile RAKESH Sodhia VIPA Patanavanichkul

Tips

Extend...Extend...Extend! It Solves Many Problems!! BNH Hospital Celebrates Its 114th Anniversary Titleist Introduces Scotty Cameron Select Putter Family FIJI Water Launches Home Delivery Service for Ease and Convenience of its Customers

News Renovation of Golf Hut at Hole #7

49 56

March 2012

Contents

PUBLISHER/CEO P.M. Kalai kalai@elitegolfmagazine.com Mobile: +668-1823-4883

ELITE 47 GOLF 62 DREAM 64 ELITE 69 ELITE 70

Wellness

EDITORIAL STAFF Sunanta Boonpok editorial_desk@elitegolfmagazine.com

Hormonal Balance is Key to Good Health

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENTS Deborah Myskow (Los Angeles) Nat Yogachandra (New York)

Quotes & Jokes Wonderful Game of Golf!

ART DIRECTOR Yamol Distajinda yamol@elitegolfmagazine.com Mobile: +668-8012-7573

Course A Fantasy Course with 18 Most Beautiful Golf Holes on the Planet!

Travel

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Amorn Amponpitayanant

Planning To Take Your Family Somewhere?... ...KL has something fun for everyone!

PRODUCTION MANAGER Suwicha Sriratham

Living

COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT Saknarong Jitpornsup saknarong@elitegolfmagazine.com Mobile: +668-9922-5265

Timeless Elegance and Refined Luxury Make this Graceful Ascent of Glass and Stone... ...The Ultimate in Urban Living!

ELITE 72

Resort

WINE 74

& Dine

RBSC ELITE is the monthly magazine of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club Golf Section published on behalf of the Sports Club by:

X2 Resort – An Awe-inspiring New Dimension of Luxury Designed for the Spirit!

KI PERUMAL CORPORATION CO., LTD. 731 PM Tower 21st Floor Asoke-Dindaeng Road Dindaeng, Bangkok 10400 Tel: +662-642-9918 | Fax: +662-642-9917 E-mail: info@elitegolfmagazine.com

Cool Off Yourself This Sweltering Summer... ...with Khao Chae at Café Boca!

EQUIPMENT News

Colour Separation &Printing THAI UNION GRAPHIC CO.,LTD

Cobra Puma Golf Launches New AMP Series Golf Clubs

ELITE 78

Wheels

MONEY

Matters

MANAGING EDITOR AND VICE PRESIDENT - SALES & MARKETING Simon Nathan simon@elitegolfmagazine.com Mobile: +668-9896-2900

2012 Maserati GranCabrio Fendi

Your Rights as a Financial Planning Client

69 70

72 62

Golf Committee 2011 -2012

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (Vice Captain)

Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana (Vice Captain)

Mr. Garrick Law

Khun Lerdpol Bhakdibhumi

Khun Palit Mahadumrongkul

Khun Sudhisak Bamrungtrakun

Khun Vichai Srisakulyanon

Khun Surin Banyatpiyaphod (Captain)

Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon

Khun Sathirut Tandanand

Khun Chawalit Chanarat (Advisor)

Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Golf Sub-Committee

2011 -2012

Mrs. Fuyumi Watanabe (Vice Captain)

Khun Supitr Jivamongkol (Vice Captain)

Khun Boonsiri Foorungsriroj

Khun Sasitorn Chokwatana

Khun Onchittra Veerasaksri

Khun Narumol Mulligan (Captain)

Khun Nitayada Purananda

Captain’s Address

Dear Members, It was a busy month for us as usual. We had an Interport Match with the Royal Selangor Golf Club. It was a win-win for both our clubs. We won the Erawan Cup, which was played without handicap, and our friends from Malaysia won the Selandang Cup. As for competitions within our Sports Club, we had a month-long triple event - Club Championship, Senior Club Championship and RBSC Chairman’s Cup – the finals of which were played on Sunday, 8 April. I would like to congratulate the three Champions: Club Championship

Khun Pulrit Praneeprachachon

Senior Club Championship -

Gen. Suebsan Dardarananda

RBSC Chairman’s Cup

Khun Manaphan Vongpivat

We will travel to Kuala Lumpur in May for our interport matches with Royal Selangor Club and Royal Selangor Golf Club. The sign-up board has been put up. We have posted our golf hut renovation plan at our Golf Club House. We also have the plan published in detail in this issue of RBSC ELITE under CLUB NEWS (Pages 56-60). We are in the process of making the final drawing to send out for bidding. We strongly hope that we can complete the renovation within this year. Happy Golfing!! Sincerely,

Surin Banyatpiyaphod RBSC Golf Captain

Golf Committee 2011 -2012

Captain Khun Surin Banyatpiyaphod

Publicity & Interports/Intraports Mr. Garrick Law

Greens/Fairways Khun Sathirut Tandanand

Vice Captain & Handicaps/Rules Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin

Competitions Khun Lerdpol Bhakdibhumi

Jr. Program/Teaching Staff Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon

Finance Khun Vichai Srisakulyanon

Vice Captain & Caddies Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana

Golf Driving Range/Storage Khun Palit Mahadumrongkul

Entertainment Khun Sudhisak Bamrungtrakun

Advisor Khun Chawalit Chanarat

14 March 2012

Captain’s Corner Dear Members, Summer has arrived whether we’re ready or not! It’s been 36 Celsius on the golf course during my last few rounds in the after noon. Take care of your health: Keep a cold 3M ice pack in your golf bag for an instant cool-down, slap on layers of sunscreen and drink litres of water. Time for all the good news! We have great results from 2012 Thailand Ladies Amateur Open, 14-16 March at Green Valley Golf and Country Club. Congratulations to our RBSC representatives:

Khun Chittima Kikuchi, 1st Runner up of flight Evergreen

Khun Jetsuda Sitachitt, 2nd Runner up of flight Evergreen

Khun Rattana Homsilpakul who made the cut to be in the final round of the tournament

From our February’s tournament, H.M. Queen Rambhai Barni Trophy, the winners and runners-up are: Winners:

Khun Duangporn Tangchitnob Khun Phandhida Sucharittanonta

Runners-up:

Khun Thippa Praneeprachachon Khun Nualchan Pew-on

Results from our March’s bogey competition Prince Chula Chakrabongse Cup are: Winner: Runner-up:

Dr. Yolvilai Sethabutra Khun Trinud Chaichanavichakit

Congratulations to all. You deserve all the glory, as I know you have been working hard at the game. As your handicap number represents your potential in the game, not your average score, we’d like to raise this awareness by announcing 2012 as the “Low Handicappers’ Year”. Of all, 107 actively competitive lady golfers since the Christmas Cup, December 2011, we have put up a list of “Excellent Golfers” (h’cap 0-8.0) and “Good Golfers” (h’cap 8.1-16.0), to be revised monthly, on the bulletin board. Check out if you’re classified “Excellent” or “Good” in golf. If you’re in neither category, it’s time to work harder. Here’s a hint: short game is the key. Also, to encourage everyone to improve their game and thus lower their handicap, the Sub-Committee has set special prizes for the 3 lowest handicappers of each age group in each competition as follows: Group A: Age 55 & below Group B: Age 56-65 Group C: Age 66 & up Stay cool and have a good summer!

Narumol Mulligan Ladies’ Golf Captain

Ladies’ Golf Sub-Committee

2011 -2012

Captain Khun Narumol Mulligan

Hon. Treasurer Khun Supitr Jivamongkol

Public Relations Khun Boonsiri Foorungsriroj

Vice Captain & Handicapper Mrs. Fuyumi Watanabe

Hon. Secretary Khun Sasitorn Chokwatana

Competitions & Activities Khun Onchittra Veerasaksri

16 March 2012

Activities Khun Nitayada Purananda

RI V ERDA LE G O LF AND COUNTRY CLUB

THE PERFECT CHALLENGE

R I V E R D A L E G O L F A N D C O U N T R Y C L U B C O . , LT D .

2 3 / 5D MO O 1L , BE A N G KG A DO I S UL B - DF I S T R I C T, M U A N G PAT H U M T H A N I , R I V E1R A PAT H U M T H A N I 1 2 0 0 0 T E L : 0 2 - 5 0 1 - 2 7 8 9 FA X : 0 2 - 5 0 1 - 2 4 8 4 wE ww.G e r dL a lF egolfc lub.co.th R O A INVDE R CD OAULN T rRi vY C LUB AND COUNTRY CLUB < D A ; 9 > < : H I E6 < : 1 4

RVD-SEP20112.indd 14

4/9/12 1:25 PM

Golf Fixtures in

2012

APRIL

JANUARY Sun 8

H.E. Pote Sarasin Trophy/Super & Great Senior

Sat 14

Home Interport Match - RBSC vs HKGC (at RBSC) (afternoon)

Wed 18, Thu 19, Fri 20

Club Championship/ RBSC Cup/ RBSC Platinum Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 28

FAMILY DAY (Course closed afternoon)

FEBRUARY Thu 2, Tue 7, Thu 9, Tue 14, Thu 16

7-8

Club Championship/Senior Club Championship & RBSC Chairman’s Cup

HM Queen Rambhai Barni Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 4

HE Nakasone Trophy

Sat 18

Home Intraport Match – RBSC vs RTN (at RBSC) (morning)

Sat 25, Sun 26

Home Interport Match - RBSC vs SICC (at RBSC) (afternoon)

MARCH Sat 10, Sun 11, Sat 17, Sat 31

Club Championship/Senior Club Championship & RBSC Chairman’s Cup

Wed 14

Prince Chula Chakrabongse Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 24, Sun 25

Home Interport Match - RBSC vs RSGC (at RBSC)

Mom Kobkaew Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

APRIL Sat 7, Sun 8

Club Championship/Senior Club Championship & RBSC Chairman’s Cup

Fri 20

Mom Kobkaew Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 21, Sun 22

Team Championship (Qualifying Round & Final Round)

MAY Sat 5, Sun 6

Mixed Team Competition (Qualifying Round & Final Round)

Fri 18

Away Interport Match - RBSC vs RSC (at RSC) (afternoon)

Sat 19 ,20

Away Interport Match - RBSC vs RSGC (at RSGC)

Wed 23

Phya Srivikorn Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 26

Rama VII Trophy

JUNE Sat 2, Sun 3, Sat 9, Sat 16, Sun 17

Hongladarom Cup

Fri 22

Chairman’s Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

JULY Wed 11

Gerson Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 14, Sun 15

St. Amory Cup (Qualifying Round & Final Round)

Sat 21, Sun 22

Away Interport Match - RBSC vs SICC (at SICC)

Sat 28

Home Intraport Match - RBSC vs EGAT (at RBSC) (morning)

AUGUST Sat 4

Away Intraport Match - RBSC vs RTAF (at RTAF) (afternoon)

Tue 7

H.M. The Queen’s Birthday Cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 11, Sun 12, Sat18, Sat 25, Sun 26

Asavapati Trophy (Mixed Teams)

SEPTEMBER Sat 8, 9

Captain’s Prize

Wed 12

Pol Gen Chamras cup (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 15

Away Intraport Match – RBSC vs RTN (at RTN) (morning)

Sat 22

Pibulsonggram Cup

21-22

Team Championship

MAY

5-6

Mixed Team Competition

18 19-20 RBSC VS RSC

RBSC VS RSGC

Phya Srivikorn Cup

Rama VII Trophy

OCTOBER Sat 13

Sweet Sixty Tournament

Wed 15

Captain’s Prizes (Qualifying Round & Final Round) (Ladies’ Golf)

Sat 27

Away Interport Match - RBSC vs HKGC (at HKGC)(afternoon)

NOVEMBER Sat 3, 4

Annual Golf Round-up

Fri 9

Ladies’ Foursome & AGM (Ladies’ Golf)

Fri 16

Annual General Meeting & Annual Golf Night

Sat 24

Home Interport Match - RBSC vs JGCC (at RBSC) (afternoon)

DECEMBER Sat 1, Sun 2

H.M. The King’s Birthday Cup & RBSC Cup (Qualifying Round & Final Round)

Sat 15

Home Interport Match - RBSC vs RSC (at RBSC) (afternoon)

18 March 2012

Competitions

Competition

Interview

Now You Can Lose Your Mobile Phone...?! ...and stay cool because SYP is there to track it back!!

- By Simon Nathan

osing mobile phone could be a big headache for some but for many others it could be spine-chilling, gut-wrenching or simply devastating, especially if it is a latest, new generation smartphone filled with a lot of features. It could even be disastrous considering the potential for fraud and theft perpetrated by stealth users with misuse of confidential data, bank account information, passwords, etc.

Worldwide statistics on stolen and lost mobile phones speak volumes of the seriousness. A telecom company in USA recently found in a nation-wide survey that nine million of its more than 15 million users lost their mobile phones in 2011. These were lost most frequently between 9:00 pm and 2:00 am, in coffee shops, bars, restaurants and offices. According to another survey in the UK, more than 2 million phones, or one every 12 seconds, were stolen last year. Australia sees more than 200,000 thefts per year, or one every three minutes. Even in straitlaced Singapore, a mobile phone disappears every two hours! The situation in Thailand is no less alarming. In a recent statement, the kingdom’s largest mobile network operator AIS reported 20,000 cases per month of lost or stolen mobile phones. Considering AIS’ market share of 44%, the estimated total number of lost phones under all operators combined comes to a staggering 45,000 per month, or 1,500 a day. Simply put, in Thailand one mobile

phone vanishes every minute!

Not all missing phones are stolen, of course. Taxis, bars, pubs, discotheques, coffee shops, shopping malls, school/ college/office canteens, groceries, convenience stores are among the many places where people often put phones down briefly and forget them.

here is good news, however. An innovative, award-winning mobile security application - Safe Your Phone® – has descended on Thailand to help those who have lost their phones. With SYP, pronounced as ‘sip’, you can not only lock your phone, retrieve and later delete all your personal information and data but also track the gadget to its location...All this just by sending a couple of SMS messages! But what’s amazing is that you can lock your phone and virtually take complete control of it even if the stealth user changes any number of SIM cards!

20 March 2012

SYP immediately sends you the new number every time the user puts in a new SIM!! The American-patented SYP was brought to the kingdom by Perumal Technology & Telecommunication Co., Ltd. RBSC ELITE recently met Ms. P. Sarinya, Chief Operating Officer of the company, who incidentally is also a member of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, to know more about the uniqueness of the mobile phone security application. Highlights of the interview: How different and unique is SYP when compared to similar Apps in the market? SYP is an ALL-IN-ONE App. We are unique and like no one else! Apart from features such as Synchronized Data Backup, Remote Lock, Trace (sending alert messages whenever a new SIM card is inserted), Wipe (deleting all data and personal information), Remote Call Back (enables the user to listen to the conversation of phone calls being made by the stealth user) and White/Black/Red List (of callers), SYP also has two unique features - Call Log - that sends you the last ten numbers that the stealth user has made calls to from your lost phone, and - Siren - that makes your phone sound a high-pitch alert tone. You can activate these features just by sending SMS messages to your lost phone! Unlike conventional Apps, SYP can track your phone even though your phone is not connected to the internet. How does the ‘Siren’ feature in an SYP-enabled phone work? Let’s presume that you have lost your phone somewhere after subscribing to SYP. You will send ‘Locate’ command via SMS to your lost phone. Then your lost phone will send the GPS coordinates synchronised on Google Map to your spare phone via a reply message. The coordinates will pinpoint you to a position within 10 meters of your lost phone. If your spare phone is not internet-enabled, you can simply note down the link and type it in the address bar of the browser on your computer. Once you physically go to the location, you simply will have to send the ‘Siren’ command via another SMS to your lost phone. Immediately, the phone will sound a siren loud enough to be heard, helping you to easily locate it! What are the unique advantages of your product? SYP is compatible with most models of smartphones with mobile OS (Operating System) such as Blackberry, iPhone, Android, Nokia, Windows and Bada. We have custommade the application to best suit the specific needs of Thai people. We offer a complete range of services, including installation, data recovery support, remote locking, data protection and privacy, 24/7, 365 days assistance through our Call Centre. There is no need to use your credit card like what you do to buy a similar App online. SYP will soon be made available at all 7-Eleven Stores where you can subscribe to SYP through counter service.

Who are your target customers and what are their needs? Our target customers include: 1) Employees and Entrepreneurs – Many of them are net-savvy and store valuable information and data in their handsets 2) General Users - who don’t have capacity to buy a new phone immediately should they lose it; such as school/ college students and middle-income group 3) Organisations – Many organisations, government and private alike, give mobile phones to their staff for official use. They will be interested in the safety of the data and the gadgets. Some such as banks, tour operators and logistics companies may also want to trace the whereabouts of their employees. What is the current status of SYP project and when will you launch it? We have set the stage for the soft launch of SYP in May 2012. Our head office is located on the 18th floor of PM Tower, Asoke-Dindaeng Road, where we are also setting up our 24-hour Call Centre. We are also negotiating with mobile network operators and mobile phone companies in Thailand to offer SYP as a value-added service to their customers. How much does it cost? The subscription cost is pretty much affordable for everyone as we wanted to reach this service to every single mobile phone in Thailand. That’s why, we will charge a fee of only 365 baht per phone for the service in the first year. How to subscribe to SYP? Are you offering any special privileges to those who book their subscription before the soft launch? Whoever is interested can visit www.safeyourphone.com and register their names and phone details. Also, they can send their information by e-mail to sarinya@perumaltt.com. The first 10,000 mobile phone users, who register with us, can get a special discount in the subscription fee. Also, for companies and institutions which take 50 or more subscriptions, we will organise demonstration and training session absolutely free of cost. You’ve bought your smartphone spending your hard-earned money. It must have cost you thousands of baht! But what make it priceless and unlosable are the invaluable data that it stores and its innumerable functions and applications. Losing your smartphone could mean losing your fortune! Now won’t you be smart enough to secure your darling gadget with SYP at a meager expense of one baht a day and keep those lurking mobile thieves at bay? The choice is yours! So if you want to secure your smartphone with Safe Your Phone, call 02-642-9200 | 081-552-1411 or e-mail to sarinya@perumaltt.com. For more information, please visit www.safeyourphone.com. March 2012

Club Competition

Club Championship, Senior Club Championship & RBSC Chairman’s Cup RBSC Golfers Showcase Grit and Perseverance in Month-long Event Club Championship : Senior Club Championship : RBSC Chairman’s Cup : 22 March 2012

Category 0-9 handicap Category 10-18 handicap aged over 60 years Category 10-18 handicap

The Royal Bangkok Sports Club golfers showcased grit and perseverance in a month-long triple event played from 10 March to 8 April 2012 for the prestigious Club Championship, Senior Club Championship and RBSC Chairman’s Cup. The triple event, which is dubbed as the largest competition of its kind, took off Saturday, 10 March, bringing in a wonderful opportunity for the RBSC golfers to display their golfing skills and stake their claim on the most sought after Club Championship, Senior Club Championship trophies as well as the RBSC Chairman’s Cup.

Khun Sathirut Tandanand, Khun Piyatham Nititham, Khun Chantapat Kolkijkovin and Khun Somkiat Twiltermsup

The qualifying rounds were played on Saturday and Sunday, 10 and 11 March, under three categories – 0-9 Handicap for the Club Championship, 10-18 Handicap and Aged over 60 years for the Senior Club Championship and 10-18 Handicap for the RBSC Chairman’s Cup. The best gross scores in each of the three categories would earn a place in the first round knock-out competition on 17 March. For the Club Championship, the top five positions in the knock-out stage were secured by K hun Somkiat Twiltermsup, Khun Pulrit Praneeprachachon, Khun Nitichai Bhumithaworn, Khun Sathirut Tandanand and Khun Tanut Sirikietsoong. For the Senior Club Championship, the top five leaders were Khun Piyabutra Vasudhara, Khun Sathitphongse Lenavat, Khun Charnchai Svangsopakul, Gen. Suebsan Dardarananda and Mr. Jonathan Sill. Those who were in the forefront of the contest for the RBSC Chairman’s Cup included Khun Krisda Leeaphorn, Khun Sudsan Narintarangkul Na Ayuthya, Khun Chatchawin Tangjaitrong, Dr. Ketchayong Skowratananont and Khun Manaphan Vongpivat. In the knock-out round for the Club Championship, Mr. E r i c H u d s o n b t K h u n S o m k i a t 3 / 2 , K h u n C h a n t a p a t Kolkijkovin bt Khun Vivat Vinicchayakul 4/3, Khun Sathirut bt Dr. Tongchate Nakhata S/D, Khun Tanut vt Khun Kalind Bunnag 3/2, Khun Pulrit bt Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin 2/1, Khun Torpong Pongsivapai vt Khun Sanonth Bhumithaworn 4/2, Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana bt Khun Nitichai 1 up and Khun Piyatham Nititham bt Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon.

Khun Kalind Bunnag, Dr. Tongchate Nakhata, Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana and Khun Supasith Sima-Aree

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin, Khun Paniti Junhasavasdikul, Khun Sanonth Bhumithaworn and Khun Sittikorn Thapthiang

Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon Khun Bheema Jotikabukkana and Khun Attapong Thammapala March 2012 23 Khun Sompiti Rattanasudjai, Khun Tanut Sirikietsoong and Khun Palit Mahadumrongkul

Similarly, for the Senior Club Championship, Khun Piyabutra bt Khun Vudhi Lenbury ‘Bye’, Mr. Michael Allan bt Tna Dharmajiva 1 up, Gen. Suebsan bt Mr. Michael Baxter 7/6, Mr. Jonathan Sill bt Mr. Donald Mickelwait S/D, Khun Sathitphongse bt M.L. Vitya Chakrabandhu 1 up, Khun Saeng Meenijacin bt Khun Prayote Sudchainark 1 up, Khun Charnchai bt Mr. Ian Stewart 2/1 and Khun Tiraphon Tipsanit bt Mr. Hideaki Fujimoto ‘Bye’. As for the RBSC Chairman’s Cup, Khun Krisda bt Khun Attakarn Kitjaharn 4/3, Dr. Thanisorn Dejthamrong bt Khun Tanon Tantisunthorn 5/4, Dr. Ketchayong bt Khun Nattasin Chongsanguan 3/1, Khun Manaphan vt Khun Thitinand Chumpani 1 up, Khun Sudsan bt Khun Pakorn Mojdara 6/4, Khun Pongprom Brahmabhatti bt Khun Kovit Vudthithamrong S/D, Khun Chatchawin bt Dr. Suriya Chakkaphak 3/1 and Khun Kiatipong Amatyakul bt Khun Siripat Swasdiburi 2/1. In the quarter final round for the Club Championship played on 31 March, Khun Chantapat bt. Mr. Eric 3/2, Khun Tanut bt Khun Sathirut 4/3, Khun Pulrit bt Khun Torpong 1 up and Khun Piyatham bt Khun Poomhatai 6/5. In the ties for the Senior Club Championship, Khun Piyabutra bt Mr. Allan 4/2, Gen. Suebsan bt Mr. Sill ‘Bye’, Khun Sathitphongse bt Khun Saeng 5/4 and Khun Charnchai bt Khun Tiraphon ‘Bye’.

Mr. Eric Hudson, Khun Vivat Vinicchayakul, Mr. Keith Brooks and Khun Torpong Pongsivapai

Khun Ply Samudavanija, Khun Nitichai Bhumithaworn, Khun Pulrit Praneeprachachon and Khun Chart Visavaplanont

In the semifinal round of the triple event, Khun Tanut bt Khun Chantapat 8/7 and Khun Pulrit bt Khun Piyatham 2/1, Gen. Suebsan bt Khun Piyabutra S/D,

Khun Prayote Sudchainark, Gen. Suebsan Dardarananda, Mr. Donald Mickelwait and Khun Tiraphon Tipsanit

Khun Sathitphongse bt Khun Charnchai ‘Bye’, Khun Manaphan bt Khun Krisda 6/4 and Khun Chatchawin bt Khun Pongprom 2/1. The final round took place on Sunday, 8 April, in a 36hole match play format for the Club Championship and RBSC Chairman’s Cup, while golfers vying for the Senior Club Championship played 18 holes in match play format. In the final round, Gen. Suebsan won the Senior Club Championship against Khun Sathitphongse 4/3, while Khun Manaphan overpowered Khun Chatchawin 5/4 to win the RBSC Chairman’s Cup. In the 36-hole third final for the Club Championship, avid golfer Khun Pulrit (HCP 4) registered a remarkable victory by defeating RBSC’s young gun Khun Tanut 1 up. 24 March 2012

Khun Sudsan Narintarangkul Naayuthya, Khun Thitinand Chumpani (standing) and Khun KovitVudthithamrong

Khun Chatchawin Tangjaitrong, Dr. Ketchayong Skowratananont, Mr. Dale Lawrence and Khun Tanon Tantisunthorn

Khun Pakorn Mojdara, Dr. Thanisorn Dejthamrong and Khun Kiatipong Amatyakul

Pol. Col. Dr. Chockchai Kasemphaibulsuk, Khun Attakit Kitjaharn, Khun Pongprom Bhrahmabhatti and Khun Nattasin Chongsanguan

Khun Udomsak Asavamanee, Khun Siripat Swasdiburi and Khun Attakarn Kitjaharn

Khun Pulrit and Khun Tanut began their first 18 on Sunday morning which turned out to be a game of musical chairs until Khun Pulrit established a formidable lead with 3 up in the last three holes. The drama continued all through the second round as Khun Tanut quickly reduced the margin to 1 up by winning the first two holes. By the time, the duo reached the 9th hole the score was still 1 up. The game turned in Khun Pulrit’s favour on the 10th hole when Khun Tanut missed a birdie putt, while Khun Pulrit sank a 10-footer to win the hole. It was 3 up again with Khun Tanut losing the 11th hole and tying for the next two holes. Khun Manaphan Vongpivat, Dr. Suriya Chakkaphak and Khun Krisda Leeaphorn

Khun Tanut won the 14th hole but the score remained 2 up with both the players bogeying the 15th. On the 16th, Khun Tanut hit his second shot on to the green, while Khun Pulrit found a green-side bunker on the right. Eventually, the score came down to 1 up. Both the players were 1-on on the penultimate 17th. Khun Tanut saved par, while Khun Pulrit missed a birdie putt taking the match ‘dormie’. On the par 4 18th hole, Khun Tanut drove into the rough on the right some 140 yd from the pin, while Khun Pulrit placed his ball right in the middle of the fairway. Khun Tanut pitched on beautifully to about 4 ft setting up for a birdie, while Khun Pulrit attached the pin with his 9 iron. The ball spun back and landed about 10 ft away from the cup. Even at this stage it appeared like anybody’s game. Khun Pulrit was facing the daunt-

26 March 2012

Mr. Hideaki Fujimoto, Mr. Jonathan Sill, Khun Vudhi Lenbury and Mr. Ian Stewart

Khun Sathitphongse Lenavat, Mr. Ian McLean, Khun Tna Dharmajiva and Mr. Michael Baxter

ing task of sinking a birdie. Should he fail and Khun Tanut succeed, it would be a playoff! Naturally, tension was writ large on the players and spectators alike as Khun Pulrit went on to putt. Seconds later, it was all over! The ball steadily rolled and trickled into the cup. All those who were watching heaved a sigh of relief as Khun Pulrit won the match 1 up.

M.L. Vitya Chakrabhandu, Khun Saeng Meenijacin and Mr. Michael Allan

Speaking to RBSC ELITE on the occasion of his momentous win, Khun Pulrit Praneeprachachon said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is my first ever victory at the Club Championship. Time is running out for guys like me and I am extremely happy and excited to win the championship, considering my age (53 yrs). I am probably one of the oldest players to achieve the coveted Club Championship.â&#x20AC;?

Mr. Dominique Mallaret, Khun Charnchai Svangsopakul (standing) and Mr. John Davidson 28 March 2012

Khun Kitiwat Tangpakorn, Khun Piyakarn Kriangkrai and Khun Anut Chatikavanij

1 16

Somkiat Twiltermsup Eric Hudson

Eric Hudson 3/2

Chantapat K. 3/2

Club Championship

Chantapat Kolkijkovin

Vivat Vinicchayakul

4/3

Tanut S.

4 13

Sathirut Tandanand

Sathitrut T.

8/7

5 12 2 15

Pulrit Praneeprachachon

Dr.Tongchate Nakhata

Chantapat k.

S/D

Tanut S.

Tanut Sirikietsoong

Tanut S.

4/3

Kalind S. Bunnag

3/2

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin Torpong Pongsivapai

2/1 Torpong P

Sanonth Bhumithaworn

4/2

Nitichai Bhumithaworn

Poomhatai S.

6 11

1 16

Poomhatai Svetasobhana Soratat Rojanasoonthon Piyatham Nititham

Piyabutra Vasudhara Vudhi Lenbury

Tna Dharmajiva

Michael Allan

4 13

Gen. Suebsan Dardarananda

5 12

Jonathan W. Sill Donald R. Mickelwait

2 15

Sathitphongse Lenavat

7 10 3 14

Michael J. Baxter

M.L. Vitya Chakrabandhu Saeng Meenijacin Prayote Sudchainark Charnchai Svangsopaku Ian A. Stewart

Pulrit P. 1 UP

Pulrit P.

Pulrit P. 1 Up Pulrit P. 2/1

1 Up Piyatham N. 1 Up

Piyatham N. 6/5

Piyabutra V. Bye M. Allan V.

Piyabutra V. 4/2

1 up

7/6 J. W. Sill

S/D Gen. Suebsan D.

Gen. Suebsan D.

Sathitphongse L.

4/3

1 up Saeng M.

Sathitphongse L. 5/4

1 up

Sathitphongse L. Bye

Charnchai S. 2/1

Charnchai S 2/1

Tiraphon T.

Hideaki Fujimoto

Bye

Krisda Leeaphorn

Krisda L.

Attakarn Kitjaharn

4/3

Krisda L.

Dr. Thanisorn D.

Bye

Tanon Tantisunthorn Dr. Thanisorn Dejthamrong

4 13

Dr. Ketchayong Skowratananont

5 12

Manaphan Vongpivat

2 15

Sudsan Narintarangkul Na Ayuthya

7 10 3 14 6 11

Nattasin Chongsanguan

Thitinand Chumpani

Pakorn Mojdara Kovit Vudthithamrong.

Winner

Bye

S/D

Tiraphon Tipsanit

Senior Club Championship Gen. Suebsan D.

Gen. Suebsan D.

Winner

5/4

RBSC Chairmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup Manaphan V. 6/4

Dr. ketchayong S. 3/1

Manaphan V.

1 up

Winner

1 up

Manaphan V. 2/1

Sudsan N. 6/4

Pongprom B.

3/2

Pongprom Brahmabhatti

3/2

Chatchawin T.

Chatchawin Tangjaitrong

Chatchawin T.

2/1

Dr. Suriya Chakkaphak Siripat Swasdiburi Kiatipong Amatyakul

3/1 Kiatipong A.

Chatchawin T. w/o

2/1

March 2012 29

Club Competition

RBSC vs. RSGC Interport Match

History Repeats as Guests and Hosts Stage Valiant Fight in the Battle of Equals! 24 March (Saturday) Erawan Cup

Match Play | Four Ball, Best Ball

Selandang Cup

Match Play | Four Ball, Best Ball

25 March (Sunday) Erawan Cup

Match Play | Individual

Selandang Cup

Match Play | Four Ball, Best Ball

30 March 2012

Mr. Raven Sockanathan (RSGC), Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana (RBSC), Mr. Tony Yoon (RSGC) and Khun Arapat Gomutputra (RBSC)

Khun Saeng Meenijacin (RBSC), Mr. Wong Lee Ming (RSGC), Mr. Tan Siew Chin (RSGC) and Khun Sudhisak Bumrungtrakun (RBSC)

Mr. Tony Yoon (RSGC), Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon (RBSC), Mr. Raven Sockanathan (RSGC) and Khun Supasith Sima-Aree (RBSC)

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (RBSC), Khun Sathirut Tandanand (RBSC), Mr. Muhammad Mustapha (RSGC) and Mr. Noreffendi (RSGC)

The Interport Match played by the Royal Bangkok Sports Club (RBSC) with their friends from the Royal Selangor Golf Club (RSGC) at RBSC during 24-25 March has witnessed history repeating itself as the hosts and guests staged a valiant fight in the battle of equals.

Khun Thong Laoboonmee (RBSC), Mr. Garrick Law (RBSC), Mr. Wong Yew Kwong (RSGC) and Mr. Henry Chan (RSGC)

RBSC golfers lifted the Erawan Cup with 22 points to 8, while SICC members raised the victory flag at the Selandang Cup with 45 points to 27. There were some new players joining both the teams this year but the results were just a repeat of what happened last year. The interport match is played every year between the two clubs for the Erawan Cup and the Selandang Cup. The format is ‘Match Play - Four Ball, Best Ball’ on the first day and ‘Match Play - Individual’ on the second day for the Erawan Cup. As for the Selandang Cup, the players compete in ‘Match Play - Four Ball, Best Ball’ format for the two days.

Khun Saeng Meenijacin (RBSC), Mr. Alex Song (RSGC), Mr. James The (RSGC) and Khun Vichai Srisakulyanon (RBSC)

For the Erawan Cup, the hosts recorded an early 7-3 lead on Saturday. Continuing their upper hand over the visitors, they finished with 15-5 on Sunday to win the cup. In respect of the Selandang Cup, the visitors managed 20 points against 16 as the hosts staged a tough fight on the first day. However, SICC golfers secured a formidable score of 25 points against 11 on the second day and finally lifted the Selandang Cup 45-27. A delicious luncheon was hosted at the Winning Post as the match came to an end early Sunday afternoon. Golfers from both the teams were treated to authentic international and Thai delicacies. The RBSC members and the guests toasted in appreciation of the continuing tradition of the friendly interport matches between the two clubs.

Khun Palit Mahadumrongkul (RBSC), Khun Dilokphol Sundaravej (RBSC), Mr. Lutz Haertel (RSGC) and Mr. Lim Beng Keat (RSGC)

The luncheon was followed by the prize presentation where special prizes such as Nearest to the Pin and Longest Drive were given away to members of both the teams. March 2012 31

Gen. Dr. Chusakdi Suwansirikul (RBSC), Mr. Chan Cheu Leong (RSGC), Mr. Robert Low (RSGC) and Khun Vivat Boonyavanich (RBSC)

Lt. Chesada Thamavit (RBSC), Mr. Shazal Yusuf (RSGC), Dr. Chokchai Kasemphaibulsuk (RBSC) and Mr. Lee Weng Kin (RSGC)

Mr. Rakesh Sodhia (RBSC), Mr. Tan Toh Hua (RSGC), Mr.Tan Thuan Khoon (RSGC) and Mr. Arun Chopra (RBSC)

Mr. Mohd Halim (RSGC), Mr. Suvir Sachdev (RBSC), Tg. Johanez (RSGC) and Khun Thapakorn Sowanna (RBSC)

Mr. Philip Yong (RSGC), Khun Ahtorn Peetathawatchai (RBSC), Mr. Chong Kuet Yoon (RSGC) and Khun Kasem Nakarat (RBSC)

. Khun Tnu Dharmajiva (RBSC), Mr. Tan Soon Cheng (RSGC), Mr. Cheah Song Kang (RSGC) and Khun Dusadi Chulajata (RBSC)

Lt. Chesada Thamavit (RBSC), Mr. Philip Yong (RSGC) Mr. Chong Kuet Yoon (RSGC) and Khun Suthep Tangkachawana (RBSC)

Mr. Arun Chopra (RBSC), Mr. Cheah Song Kang (RSGC), Mr. Alex K.C. Au (RBSC) and Mr. Tan Soon Cheng (RSGC)

Tg. Muin (RSGC), Mr. Donald Mickelwait (RBSC), Mr. Michael Allan (RBSC) and Mr. Azlan Abdullah (RSGC) 32 March 2012

Mr. Lim Beng Keat (RSGC), Mr. Lutz Haertel (RSGC), Khun Rishi Sivasiamphai (RBSC) and Khun Pracha Sivasiamphai (RBSC)

Mr. Foong Kai Ming (RSGC), Khun Vichet Bunthuwong (RBSC), Khun Namchai Techamaitri (RBSC) and Mr. Pong Kai See (RSGC)

Khun Chawalit Chanarat (RBSC), Mr. Tan Siew Chin (RSGC), Mr. Wong Lee Ming (RSGC) and Mr. Ravi Sehgal (RBSC)

Khun Kittisak Sopchokchai (RBSC), Mr. Mak Choong Moon (RSGC), Mr. Lim Chai Hock (RSGC) and Khun Philippe Suthimai (RBSC)

Mr. Eric Hudson (RBSC), Mr. Leong Siew Pan (RSGC), Mr. Wong Kang Yeow (RSGC) and Khun Thapakorn Sowanna (RBSC)

Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana (RBSC), Tg. Johanez (RSGC), Khun Lownaphum Navisthrira (RBSC) and Mr. Mohd Halim (RSGC)

Khun Kittipong Decha-umphai (RBSC), Mr. Noreffendi (RSGC), Mr. Muhammad Mustapha (RSGC) and Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (RBSC)

Khun Pichet Rojanavanich (RBSC), Mr. Liew Fook Chuan (RSGC), Khun Tridanai Siripipat (RBSC) and Mr. Kok Kin Fook (RSGC)

Mr. Tariq Kamil (RSGC), Mr. Muthanna Abdullah (RSGC), Mr. Suvir Sachdev (RBSC) and Khun Tanut Sirikietsoong (RBSC)

Mr. Lee Weng Kin (RSGC), Mr. Shazal Yusuf (RSGC), Khun Kasem Arayanimitskul (RBSC) and Khun Pichet Laokasem (RBSC)

Khun Soratat Rojanasoonthon (RBSC), Mr. Tariq Kamil (RSGC) and Mr. Muthanna Abdullah (RSGC)

March 2012 33

Khun Kasem Jaliyawatwong (RBSC), Mr. Giancarlo Maccagno (RSGC) and Khun Keree Chaichanavong (RBSC)

(sitting) Mr. P.M. Kalai (RBSC), Mr. Kamarulzaman Omar (RSGC), (standing) Mr. Ainuddin Hamid (RSGC) and Pol. Col. Damrong Pannoi (RBSC)

RESULTS Mr. Joseph Hew (RSGC), Khun Attapong Thammapala (RBSC) and Mr. Teh Chin Yong (RSGC)

ERAWAN CUP RBSC Team :

22 Pts

RSGC Team : 08 Pts SELANDANG CUP RBSC Team:

27 Pts

RSGC Team:

45 Pts SATURDAY, 24 MARCH Nearest to the Pin:

Hole #1:

Khun Pichet Laokasem (RBSC) Mr. Henry Chan (RSGC

Hole #13:

Khun Tnu Dharmajiva (RBSC) Mr. Mohd Azlan (RSGC) SUNDAY, 25 MARCH Nearest to the Pin:

Hole #9:

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (RBSC) Mr. Tony Yoon (RSGC)

Hole #8:

Mr. P.M. Kalai (RBSC) Mr. Joseph Hew (RSGC) Longest Drive:

Hole # 9:

34 March 2012

Khun Lownaphum Navisthrira (RBSC) Mr. Tony Yoon (RSGC)

Club Competition

RBSC vs. SICC

Interport Match Hosts Record Outright Win against Friends from Singapore

Sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;porean Methis Johnson Drills Hole-in-One! 36 March 2012

Hosts of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club (RBSC) registered an outright victory against the golfing members of the Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) at an Interport Match played for the Merlion Trophy and Nibhon Wilairat Trophy at RBSC on 25 and 26 February. The two-day event was held in a match play format for the Merlion Trophy (without handicap) and the Nibhon Wilairat Trophy (with handicap), bringing in another session of camaraderie among the hosts and their long-time friends from Singapore.

Mr. Steven Quah (SICC), RBSC Golf Captain Khun Surin Banyatpiyaphod, SICC Golf Captain Mr. Andrew Lim and Dr. Suriya Chakkaphak (RBSC)

Khun Sathirut Tandanand (RBSC), Mr. Lau Huang Nam (SICC), Mr. Brian Goh (SICC) and Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (RBSC)

RBSC Chairman Khun Bhumindr Harinsuit, SICC President Mr. Tay Joo Soon, Mr. Andrew Low (SICC) and Khun Kittipong Decha-umphai (RBSC)

Mr. Paul Kwek (SICC), Mr. Suvir Sachdev (RBSC), Mr. Bernard Yeo (SICC) and Khun Poomhatai Svetasobhana (RBSC)

Khun Thapakorn Sowanna (RBSC), Mr. Mark Langhammer (SICC), Khun Vichai Srisakulyanon (RBSC) and Mr. Chuan Campbell (SICC)

Khun Palit Mahadumrongkul (RBSC), Mr. John Lyn, Mr. Richard Tay (SICC) and Khun Dilokphol Sundaravej (RBSC)

March 2012 37 Mr. Garrick Law (RBSC), Mr. Tay Chwan Shin (SICC) and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vira Buranakarn (RBSC)

After a quick lunch at the Club House on Saturday, the event took off at 1 pm with a shotgun start from the designated tees on the first day. At the end of the round, hosts RBSC posted a score of 6 points for the Merlion Trophy and 26 points for the Nibhon Wilairat Trophy, while SICC golfers secured 2 points and 10 points respectively for the two trophies. The highlight of the first day was the hole-in-one drilled by ‘ace’ golfer Mr. Methis Johnson from SICC. The fabled ace shot by him on the 128-yard hole #13 is one of the rarest achieved by visitors in competitive golf at the Sports Club.

Mr. Lim Keok Meng (SICC), Mr. Tay Joo Thong (SICC), Khun Thong Laoboonmee (RBSC) and Dr. Thanisorn Dejthamrong (RBSC)

Khun Tridanai Siripipat (RBSC), Mr. William Wang (SICC), Mr. Poon Fook Kuan (SICC) and Khun Thavitchai Saiyasombat (RBSC)

Khun Namchai Tejamaitri (RBSC), Mr. C.K. Tham (SICC), Mr. John Lyn (SICC) and Khun Vichet Bunthuwong (RBSC)

38 March 2012

Khun Thira Wipuchanin (RBSC), Mr. Ivan Low (SICC), Mr. Ivan Lee (SICC) and Khun Pichet Laokasem (RBSC)

Pol. Col. Sinard Ahjanwong (RBSC), Mr. David Sim (SICC), Mr. Prem Sachdev (SICC) and Dr. Pranot Nipatasaj (RBSC) Khun Keree Chaichanavong (RBSC), Mr. Manfred Schwencke (SICC), Mr. Ben B.T. Tan (SICC) and Khun Kasem Jaliyavatwong (RBSC)

Khun Nirayut Wanpen (RBSC), Mr. Jayesh Kumar Bhudhara (RBSC), Mr. Khua Hock Su (SICC) and Khun Supasith Sima-Aree (RBSC)

As for the scores, the result was no different on the second day on which the match started at 7.30 in the morning. RBSC golfers augmented their score for the Merlion Trophy with another 7 points, while SICC golfers managed to add only 1 point. The final two-day scores for the Merlion Trophy were 13 (RBSC) and 3 (SICC). In a similar manner, the hosts registered a thorough victory with 20 points in their favour against 8 points secured by SICC for the Nibhon Wilairat Trophy. The final tally for the Nibhon Wilairat Trophy stood at 46 (RBSC) and 18 (SICC). As the curtain was brought down on the contest, a delectable luncheon was hosted in honour of the visiting friends. SICC Golf Captain Mr. Andrew Lim presented the two trophies to RBSC Golf Captain Khun Surin Banyatpiyaphod. Later, the two captains presented special prizes – Nearest to the Pin and Longest Drive to members of both the teams. Khun Surin also presented ‘super special prize’ - a brand new Taylormade Rozza putter - to Mr. Methis Johnson in recognition of his remarkable ace!

Mr. Tan Tien Guan (SICC), Dr. Veerapong Sastarasadhit (RBSC), Mr. Teo Hong Guan (SICC) and Khun Jaruay Kunmanee (RBSC)

Mr. Peter Ow (SICC), Mr. Alex K.C. Au (RBSC), Dr. Chokchai Kasemphaibulsuk (RBSC) and Mr. Jimmy Yeo (SICC)

Mr. Tay Ah Lye (SICC), Mr. Peter Koh (SICC), Dr. Suriya Chakkaphak (RBSC) and Mr. P.M. Kalai (RBSC)

March 2012 39

Mr. David Sim (SICC), Mr. Prem Sachdev (SICC), Mr. Simon Hirst (RBSC) and Khun Krisda Leeaphorn (RBSC)

M.L. Vitya Chakrabhandu (RBSC), Khun Pracha Sivasiamphai (RBSC), Mr. Peter Ow (SICC) and Mr. Jimmy Yeo (SICC)

Khun Shivek Sivasiamphai (RBSC), Mr. C.K. Tham (SICC), Khun Rishi Sivasiamphai (RBSC) and Mr. Francis Loh K.C. (SICC)

Mr. Leong Kin Chong (SICC), Mr. Garrick Law (RBSC), Mr. Lawrence Teo (SICC) and Khun Nucha Vatanopas (RBSC)

Dr. Yanyong Sattasiri (RBSC), Mr. Tan Tien Guan (SICC), Teo Hong Guan (SICC) and Khun Pongprom Brahmabhatti (RBSC)

Mr. Haiko V. Emanuel (RBSC), Mr. Seah Boon Chuan (SICC), Mr. Khua Hock Su (SICC) and Mr. Nilkesh Choksi (RBSC)

Khun Wanchai Ekbundit (RBSC), Mr. S. Radhakrishnan (SICC), PMG Viraj Vanijaka (RBSC) and Mr. Methis Johnson (SICC)

Mr. Joseph Tan (SICC), Mr. C.S. Lee (SICC), Mr. Ravi Sehgal (RBSC) and Mr. Roy Barrett (RBSC)

40 March 2012

RESULTS MERLION TROPHY RBSC Team : 13 Points (06, 07) SICC Team : 03 Points (02, 01) NIBHON WILAIRAT TROPHY RBSC Team:

46 Points (26, 20)

SICC Team:

18 Points (10, 08) Nearest to the Pin:

Mr. William Wang (SICC), Khun Phichai Chaichanavichakit (RBSC), Khun Kasem Arayanimitskul (RBSC) and Mr. Poon Fook Kuan (SICC)

Hole #1:

M.L. Vitya Chakrabhandhu (RBSC) Mr. Steven Quah (SICC)

Hole #8:

Khun Dilokpol Sundaravej (RBSC) Mr. Teo Hong Quan (SICC)

Hole #10:

Khun Thavichat Saiyasombat (RBSC) Mr. Joseph Tan (SICC)

Hole #13:

Dr. Rattachat Mongkolnavin (RBSC) Mr. William Wang (SICC)

Hole # 9:

Khun Thapakorn Sowanna (RBSC) Mr. Douglas Ooi (SICC)

Longest Drive:

Super Special Prize (Hole-in-One on Hole #13): Mr. Suvir Sachdev (RBSC), Mr. Chuan Campbell (SICC), Mr. Mark Langhammer (SICC) and Khun Vudhi Lenbury (RBSC)

Mr. Methis Johnson (SICC)

March 2012 41

Club Competition

Prince Chula

Chakrabongse Cup Dr. Yolvilai Succeeds in this One-of-a-kind Bogey ‘Operation’! Conditions of Play :

42 March 2012

Bogey Competition | 7/8 Handicap (max 20)

Khun Supitr Jivamongkol, Khun Tuenjai Asavisanu, Mrs. Fuyumi Watanabe and Khun Nitayada Purananda

Khun Thippa Praneeprachachon, Khun Narumol Mulligan and Dr. Nadaprapai Sucharitkul

Dr. Yolvilai Sethabutra, one of the seasoned golfers of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, succeeded at the most popular one-of-a-kind bogey ‘operation’ for the coveted Prince Chula Chakrabongse Cup on 23 March. Instituted 58 years ago by Prince Chula Chakrabongse, the bogey contest is considered as the club’s most popular event as it allows golfers of all levels to take part and enjoy the game that’s played with a full handicap (max. 20). This contest is unique since, unlike in other competitions, only a bogey would be counted for the maximum strokes made by a golfer for any one hole regardless of the actual number of strokes. A less capable player could therefore remain competitive even after a bad hole. However, winning the contest isn’t that easy. The players must collect points – one point each for achieving a par or better (depending upon the handicap scale) for each hole. The one who collects the most points will be the winner.

Khun Trinud Chaichanavichakit, Khun Rungravee Mapaisansin and Khun Vipa Patanavanichkul

Dr. Yolvilai, a pediatrician by profession and a regular participant in various tournaments organised by the Ladies’ Golf Sub-Committee, lifted the Prince Chula Chankrabhongse Cup in style with +4 points to her credit. Close on her heels was Khun Trinud Chaichanavichakit (17), who had equally showcased exceptional golf during the 18 holes of intense competition. Thanks to an impeccable iron play, Khun Trinud managed to clinch the runner-up position with +3 points.

Khun Sasitorn Chokwatana, Khun Niraporn Wongsommat, Khun Onchittra Veerasaksri and Khun Yuvarin Bongsadadt Khun Angsumal Jotikasthira, Sariya Chanpen (standing), Mrs. Margaret Pamon-Montri and Mrs. Regina Maeder

March 2012 43

Khun Supang Mekcharas, Khun Kasemsri Upatisring and Khun Porn-Apha Taworntawat

Khun Ausanee Sosothikul, Khun Sunun Mahasandana and Khun Sida Schmidt

RESULTS Winner : Runner-Up :

Dr. Yolvilai Sethabutra (18) Khun Trinud Chaichanavichakit (17) Special Prize - Nearest to the Pin

Hole #1:

Khun Trinud Chaichanavichakit

Hole #4:

Khun Sunun Mahasandana

Hole #8:

Khun Vevida Pamonmontri

Hole #10:

Khun Jetsuda Sitachitt

Hole #11z:

Khun Jetsuda Sitachitt

Hole #13:

Khun Sariya Chanpen

Hole #17:

Khun Nitayada Purananda

44 March 2012

4 Pts 3 Pts

Khun Kunnikar Pijffers, Khun Premsiri Brady and Khun Vevida Pamonmontri

Dr. Yolvilai Sethabutra, Khun Prapaisri Sudhinaraset, Khun Jetsuda Sitachitt and Khun Pornphan Padmasankha

March 2012 45

Profile

RAKESH

Sodhia (HCP 16) Member Since:

1994

Occupation:

International Trading & Consultancy in Agro-commodities and Minerals

Company/Organisation:

Fortuna International Ltd.

Position:

Managing Director

Hobbies other than golf:

Cricket,Tennis, Reading and Music

Who inspired you to take up golf? My close friend of almost 30 years Khun Ravi Sehgal, currently member of General Committee at RBSC. If it wasn’t for him, I would probably have never taken up golf! What did you learn from playing golf? First I began golf as an exercise. But it taught me how to be more patient and how to concentrate. It also gave me lot of friends. What did you learn from playing golf? First, it teaches you to be patient and considerate. Second, it is great for networking and making new friends. Third, the true nature and temperament of a person comes out when you play golf with them and this makes it easier to judge a person’s character. Do you have any memorable moments in your golfing life? I haven’t won any tournaments yet, either at RBSC or outside. But I have always enjoyed playing golf tournaments to raise funds for charity. Have you got a hole-in-one? Never! Still hoping for my first one after 10 years of playing golf Have you got a hole-in-one? Never, but soon I will. Who is your favorite professional golfer? Why do you like him/ her? Vijay Singh for his hard work, discipline and easy swing – all attributes that I do not possess! Besides, to play so well even after crossing the age of 50 years is quite an achievement in itself. Have you played golf abroad? Yes, at several courses in Australia, USA, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. Which golf course in the world you like the most and why? It would have to be The Old Course at St. Andrews for the history it carries. What is your big dream in golf? As of now, a hole-in-one. Once this is achieved, I will dream of achieving something else. What is your dream car and why do you like it? Jaguar…Specially the S-type old models. For it’s shape, style, design and the overall feeling like a ‘jaguar’ in motion. 46 March 2012

Which brands of golf clubs and golf ball do you use? Driver:

Callaway Diablo Octane 9.5

Woods / Hybrids:

Kasco

Irons / Wedges:

Callaway Big Bertha

Putter:

Odyssey

Golf Ball:

Titleist / Bridgestone

Wellness

Hormonal Balance is Key to Good Health A Vitallife Wellness Center physician explores how hormone levels impact our health, and how balance can be restored. - By Dr. Wanviput Sanphasitvong (M.D., ABAARM, FAARM)

ew people realise the powerful role hormones play in their overall health and wellness. But if you’re encountering fatigue, stress or lack of sex drive, there’s a good chance that your hormones are out of balance. Hormones are integral to the body’s ability to function at its optimal level. If a hormonal imbalance is suspected, there are several ways to check your hormone levels -- and a number of proven treatments to restore their healthy equilibrium. Simple tests Hormone levels are usually checked through blood or saliva testing. While knowing the individual levels of hormones related to stress, testosterone and growth is helpful, doctors also must look at the various combinations of results – not enough of one, too much of another -- to form an accurate picture of the health effects on an individual patient. For female patients, doctors focus on sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone). For men, the important results are the male sex hormone (testosterone) and the level of estrogen. The male body needs a very small amount of this “female” hormone for proper testosterone function. It’s common for overweight men to have too much estrogen but too little testosterone, because fat converts testosterone into estrogen. Effects of imbalances An imbalance between male and female sex hormones can have far-reaching effects. Low testosterone can cause irritability, and high estrogen levels reduce sex drive. Thankfully, the solution is quite simple; exercise and healthy eating to reduce body fat. The benefits of re-balancing a man’s balance of testosterone and estrogen levels go far beyond the boost to his mood and libido; it also helps reduce his heart disease risk.

vagina, and side effects are extremely rare. The most popular men’s treatment is a testosterone skin cream. One potential side effect is hair loss. Hormone injections are an alternative treatment for some men, though this may lead to increased conversion of testosterone to estrogen. Eating and sleeping well There’s a strong connection between good nutrition habits and hormonal balance. The humble egg is packed with the “good” fats the body needs to produce cholesterol-based hormones. An egg-a-day is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Poached or boiled eggs are healthier than scrambled, fried or omelettes. Getting enough sleep (seven to eight hours a night) is critical to good health and to hormonal balance. As we sleep, our growth hormones conduct maintenance and repair tasks and synchronize with other hormones. If you’re still young enough to be at your hormonal peak, leading an active lifestyle provides added insurance against a future need for HRT. Even if you’re approaching the age where HRT may be needed, you still reap countless benefits through healthy living. The Vitallife Wellness Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital has helped numerous patients restore their hormone levels to an optimal equilibrium. We invite you to call 02-667-2340 to schedule an initial discussion with a Vitallife physician. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your background and health concerns so the doctor can develop a customised plan that suits your needs and goals. More information can be found online by visiting Vitallife’s website – www.e-vitallife.com.

Taking action When test results show a hormonal imbalance, doctors typically determine the best course of corrective action based on a patient’s specific health situation. When hormone levels are very low, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often the best treatment choice. The latest generation of HRT treatments for women includes a bio-identical hormone cream that mimics a woman’s natural hormones; the cream can be applied topically or inside the March 2012 47

Profile

VIPA

Which brands of golf clubs and golf ball do you use?

Patanavanichkul (HCP 23.9)

Driver:

Sword, Kasco

Woods / Hybrids:

Kasco, Mizuno

Member Since:

1997

Irons / Wedges:

Kasco, Mizuno

Occupation:

Investment Professional

Putter:

Kasco, Mizuno

Company/Organisation:

KTZMICO Securities Co.,Ltd.

Golf Ball:

Kasco

Position:

Sr. Executive Vice President – Retail Brokerage Centre, Head Office

Hobbies other than golf:

Swimming, fitness and dancing

Who inspired you to take up golf? My husband Khun Somchai Patanavanichkul and also Khun Usa Luangthaveeboon What did you learn from playing golf? First I began golf as an exercise. But it taught me how to be more patient and how to concentrate. It also gave me lot of friends. Do you have any memorable moments in your golfing life? Not yet because I started playing golf only about a year. I hope one day I will be the winner of tournaments. Have you got a hole-in-one? Again, not yet. But I hope to get it one day. Who is your favorite professional golfer? Why do you like him/her? Yani Tseng…because in spite of being a small girl she drives incredibly far! Also, she always feels confident on the course. Have you played golf abroad? Never, but soon I will. Which golf course in the world you like the most and why? Nothing in specific but I like to play one of the famous golf courses in the future. What is your big dream in golf? Winner at a tournament in RBSC! What is your dream car and why do you like it? Mercedes-Benz Sport 500 because it’s beautiful and it feels secured when you drive it.

48 March 2012

F BETTER GOL

WITH BILL

Extend...Extend...Extend! It Solves Many Problems!! Bill Hutton, who turned professional in 1983, is a ‘Class A’ member of the Professional Golfers’ Association of USA. He has been the Director of Junior Golf at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club for the last 10 years. Formerly, he was the Head Pro at the Winsan Golf Club (now known as Legacy Golf Club). Bill appeared on Kong Fak Nak Golf, a programme telecast every midnight on TV Channel 3 for over eight years. He gave more than 1,500 golf tips through the programme during 1997-2005.

1 The right arm folds automatically across your body like “THIS” when you make a swinging motion with your arm.

2 And when your left arm is also holding the club, the left “elbow” pulls in tightly to the left side of your body.

3 When the left elbow pulls “in”, your clubhead pulls in as well. This results in shots hitting off the “TOE” of the clubhead.

4 OR....Beacause the clubhead is pulling “in”, the clubface stays “OPEN” and the ball also goes to the right.

A very fundamental problem of the golf swing is how easy it is to let the right arm fold across your belly on the downswing like you see in picture #1. This leads to the left arm folding in to your left side which pulls your hands inside to the left also (as in pic #2). When these things happen, what do you think your clubhead is doing? It also is going to be ‘pulled’ in to the left. This usually means your club face will stay ‘open’ as you hit the ball. Two things usually happen. Either the ball goes to the right because you hit the ball with the ‘toe’ of your clubhead or you hit to the right because the club face was open (look at pics #3 and #4). Let me also add that when you allow your arms to fold too soon on the downswing, this can also cause your body to ‘straighten up’ March 2012 49

8A 54 Arms that fold across your body also tend to make you change your posture and “STAND UP.”

6 And “standing up” tends to make your face swivel to the left.

(pic #5) slightly as the clubhead approaches the ball. This leads to your head ‘lifting up’ (pic #6). How many times have we heard that ‘You are lifting your face!’

Find a tree and stand with your feet close to it as you see here and simply swing the club “AROUND” the tree trunk. Notice my right forearm rotated “OVER” my left forearm!

In fact the REAL problem is that some golfers don’t extend both their arms down the target line (pics #7a, #7b). If you extend both arms down

8B Swinging around the tree teaches you “EXTENSION” of the right arm as you clearly see in this photo! the target line then your body won’t ‘straighten up’ and your face won’t ‘lift up’. And your club face won’t be so open as you hit the ball.

Let’s avoid ALL these problems by learning to EXTEND THE ARMS COMPLETELY on the follow through!

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7B And maintain nice posture of my upper body like THIS!

A good practice drill and visual drill is to swing the clubhead ‘around’ a tree (pics #8a, #8b). This will prevent you from folding your arms too soon and teach you a feeling of ‘swinging out!’

SO...SAY ‘BYE-BYE’ TO THE SLIICE AND ‘HELLO’ TO THE DRAW!

In The News

BNH Hospital Celebrates Its 114th Anniversary

NH Hospital recently c e l e b r a t e d i t s 1 1 4 th anniversar y with a Buddhist ceremony for merit making and good fortune as well as launching a programme titled ‘7 Miracles in 2012’.

Mr. Raymond Chong

The celebrations began with the offering of food to 41 monks and a Buddhist ceremony in the early morning. Amongst the many who participated were BNH staff members, doctors and the management team led by the hospital’s Chairman of the Board of Directors Lt. Gen. Chirdchai Chiemchaisri.

To mark the occasion, the hospital launched ‘7 Miracles in 2012’, all related to the ongoing research being undertaken specially for women and breast cancer in 2012 and beyond. The Queen Sirikit Center for Breast Cancer, Chulalongkorn Hospital, Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kris Chatamra took part the event and gave a special talk on his pioneering research on breast cancer, advancements achieved through the research and how to look after patients suffering from breast cancer. In his opening remarks, BNH Hospital CEO Mr. Raymond Chong spoke about the hospital’s operations moving forward under the concept of ‘Going Intelligent’, while the hospital Director Dr. Dune Damrongsak talked about “the miracles” that would benefit women worldwide. BNH Hospital showcased ‘Scalp Cooling Machine’ that can prevent hair fall from Chemotherapy by using - 4 Celsius refrigeration. BNH Belly Dance Club presented a Healthy and Fun Dancercise show where the club members demonstrated various ‘belly dance techniques’ that can help breast cancer patients restore muscle after operation,as well as correct breathing practice with a ‘bubble blowing technique’. Later joined by the invited guests, the executives and doctors of the hospital opened the newly set up ‘Digital Endoscopy and Digestive Care Centre-BNH’. March 2012

In The News

Titleist Introduces Scotty Cameron Select Putter Family Brand New Line Features Modern Blades, Mallets, Mid and Long Options in a Tour-Validated Black Mist Finish

rusted by more players on the PGA TOUR since 1997 and counting, Scotty Cameron Fine Milled putters are designed and built with craftsmanship and performance in mind. With his experience and innovative research from the Cameron Putter Studio in California, Scotty Cameron creates modern, yet timeless, putters to satisfy the best players in the world, as well as serious golfers with preferences for the highest quality and performance. The brand new Scotty Cameron by Titleist Select line of putters is the culmination of Cameron’s Putter Studio research, combined with his desire to design and build the best putters in the world. The new family includes five modern blade models (Newport, Newport 1.5, Newport 2, Notchback, Newport 2.6), two mallets (GoLo, GoLo S), three mid lengths (Newport Two Mid, GoLo Mid, GoLo S Mid), and two long options (Big Sur, Big Sur S). The new Select putters feature a Deep Milled face that contributes to a softer feel and sound, as well as elegantly refined shapes and a Tour-validated Black Mist finish. All are precision milled from soft, 303 stainless steel, with the exception being the Big Sur models that feature high grade milled aluminum heads. “My ultimate goal when designing and building a putter is to provide the golfer pure putting confidence,” said Master Putter Craftsman Scotty Cameron. “Whether it is for the best players in the world or golfers who aspire to play their best, the performance and preference options available in the new Cameron Select line are my deepest yet. These putters have all been tour-validated, developed and refined through product and player research conducted at our state-of-the-art Cameron Putter Studio and on practice greens around the world.” The conventional models the new Cameron Select Newport, Newport 1.5, Newport 2, Notchback and Newport 2.6 putters - replace the Studio Select line. The head features a rich, dark, glare free Black Mist finish with red dot graphics and red dot

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weights in the sole, and is covered with a new Cameron Select headcover. The grip is a new Select black with a red dancing Cameron logo. All standard right hand models are available in 33, 34 and 35 inch lengths, as well as 34H and 35H custom heavier weight configurations. The GoLo Mallets and GoLo Mids replace the Studio Select Kombi Mallet and Kombi Mid lines. The GoLo (single bend shaft) and GoLo S (straight shaft) feature an elegant rounded profile with Select weighting technology. The slightly asymmetric back profile, contained cavity lines and pulled in heel encourage a flowing stroke along the ideal arc. The bottom sole plate with internal rubber ring produces a great sound. Two neck configurations allow the golfer to choose his preferred set up appearance and dynamic feel. The stock conventional length mallets are available in 33, 34 and 35 inches as well as 34H and 35H custom heavier weight configurations. The Newport Two Mid, GoLo Mid and GoLo S Mid come in a standard length of 42” with custom lengths of 40-46” available. The Select Big Sur and Big Sur S replace the Studio Select Kombi Long line in the Cameron putter family. Both putters are constructed from aluminum, and feature a stainless steel center sole weight bar and triangulated stainless weights that provide exceptional balance. They each feature a Cameron one-piece black grip, a Tour Black Mist plated finish, cherry dot graphics, cherry dot weights in the sole and a new Select Big Sur head cover. The Big Sur and Big Sur S Long putters are available with a standard length of 47” and a lie angle of 79°, with lengths of 46-52” available through custom order. In combination, all these different options allow golfers to choose a Cameron Select putter with the appearance they prefer, the length and weight they need, and a neck configuration that provides the proper amount of toe flow during the stroke. PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: All conventional Scotty Cameron Select and Select GoLo putters begin shipping to golf shops on April 11, 2012, while the Select Mid and Long putters will be available beginning May 1, 2012. The new Cameron Select putters carry a MSRP of 18,000 Baht.

2012 CAMERON SELECT MODEL DESCRIPTIONS MODERN BLADES Newport: A soft, modern blade with a high toe profile that aids in correct setup at address. A plumbing neck provides a full shaft of offset and medium toe flow. Available in right hand only. Newport 1.5: A soft modern blade with a high toe profile featuring a black-on-black milled sightline in the flange and a short flare neck for added toe flow. Available in right hand only. Newport 2: A crisp, modern blade with a high toe profile, black-on-black milled sightline in the flange and a plumbing neck that provides a full shaft of offset and medium toe flow. Available in right and left hand. Notchback: A crisp mid blade with a high toe profile, notched back flange with a black-on-black milled sightline and an elegant single bend shaft that provides 3/4 shaft of offset and near minimum toe flow. Available in right hand only. Newport 2.6: A crisp modern blade with a high toe profile, black-on-black milled sightline in the flange and a zero-offset straight shaft positioned one shaft back from center. The Newport 2.6 features a slightly thicker topline and minimum toe flow. Available in right hand only. MALLETS GoLo Mallet: Elegant, rounded mallet with a slightly asymmetric D-shaped back flange with contained cavity lines and a pulled in heel that encourages a flowing stroke along the ideal arc. A single bend shaft provides 3/4 shaft of offset. Available in right and left hand. GoLo S Mallet: Elegant, rounded mallet with a slightly asymmetric Dshaped back flange with contained cavity lines and a pulled in heel that encourages a flowing stroke along the ideal arc. A zero-offset straight shaft positioned one shaft back from center. Available in right hand only. MID LENGTHS Newport 2 Mid: Refined crisp, modern blade for heel-toe blade enthusiasts seeking a mid-length option. Precisely weighted and balanced for mid lengths. Available in right hand only. GoLo Mid: Elegant, rounded mallet with a slightly asymmetric D-shaped back flange precisely weighted and balanced for mallet enthusiasts seeking a mid-length option. Features a single bend shaft that provides 3/4 shaft of offset. GoLo Mid S: Elegant, rounded mallet with a slightly asymmetric Dshaped back flange precisely weighted and balanced for mallet enthusiasts seeking a mid-length option. Features a zero-offset straight shaft positioned one shaft back from center. LONG The Big Sur is a sleek but full mallet matched to a double bend shaft that provides a full shaft of offset, and is available in right and left hand. The Big Sur S is a sleek but full mallet matched to a zero-offset straight shaft positioned one shaft back from center. It is available in right hand only. March 2012

In The News

FIJI Water Launches Home Delivery Service for Ease and Convenience of its Customers FIJI Water, natural artesian water from the Fiji Islands, has launched home delivery service for the ease and convenience of its customers. According to a press release from CVS Syndicate Co., Ltd, the sole distributor of the super premium water with high silica in Thailand, the company is offering this ‘Summer Special’ home delivery service all through the season. Customers can get one case free for every four cases ordered. For an order of eight cases, they can also get a voucher worth 2,700 baht that can be exchanged for a bouquet of flowers at Miss Lily absolutely free. FIJI Water is available in high-grade PET bottles in four sizes – 330 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre and 1.5 litre. For more information, please call 02-669-3531 #6138 | 08-4360-4233, visit: www.facebook.com/fijiwaterhomedelivery 54 March 2012

In The News

Etihad Airways Announces Launch of Its Third Daily Bangkok - Abu Dhabi Service

tihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, which had won the ‘Leading Airline of the World’ award three years in succession, has announced the launch of its third daily service on Bangkok-Abu Dhabi route from April 15. The airline’s President and CEO Mr. James Hogan, who was in Thailand recently, met with officials, business partners and media to share the airline’s operations and growth plans. He also met Bangkok Airways CEO Dr. Prasert Prasarttong-Osoth and discussed Etihad’s expansion plans and the codeshare partnership between the two airlines. During the visit, Mr. Hogan hosted a cocktail reception for the leading members of the Thai community and the airline’s trade and industry partners, ahead of its 8th anniversary of Thai operations, and to reaffirm Etihad Airways’ commitment to the growing Thailand market. Mr. Hogan said: “I am delighted to be in Bangkok, and to see for myself the continuing growth in the Thai market in spite of the challenges of last year, which is enabling us to launch our third daily service on the Abu Dhabi–Bangkok route with a Boeing 777-300ER from April 15. “The past year has been a hugely successful one for Etihad Airways, with excellent financial results, and the announcement of game-changing investments

in airberlin and Air Seychelles marking a major step forward in our partnership strategy. “We have already seen strong interest in airberlin’s Abu Dhabi-Phuket flight, and are pleased at the positive contribution these flights will make to tourist arrivals. At the same time, our codeshare partnerships with Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines, two of the leading carriers in the region, are offering travellers a range of outstanding choices.” In addition to supporting tourism growth in Thailand through growing its own services and its codeshare arrangements, Etihad Airways is also contributing through its “Amazing Thailand Program”, in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, offering a range of special deals and promotions through Etihad Holidays, including great packages, upgrades and offers for vacations in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui, strongly encouraging travel to Thailand from not only the UAE, but also the GCC countries and the whole of the Middle East. RBSC member and Trans Air Cargo Co., Ltd. Managing Director Khun Keree Chaichanavong, RBSC Polo Club member and Roongsarp Travel Service Co., Ltd. Deputy Managing Director Khun Sumanee Phipathananunth, Excel Transport International Managing Director Khun Amarit Pansiri and Charal Business Chiangmai Group Sales Manager Khun Parinya Pornbenjakul were among those who attended the cocktail reception. March 2012

Club News

Renovation of Golf Hut at Hole #7 The Royal Bangkok Sports Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golf Committee has drawn up an extensive plan to renovate the golf hut at Hole #7 tee off. According to Golf Captain Khun Surin Banyatpiyaphod, the golf hut, which has not been in a good shape, needs major repairs. The area is too small to accommodate the increasing number of golfers.

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There is no proper seating for caddies. With all this in mind the Golf Committee has decided to make a major renovation of this golf hut. In designing a new golf hut layout, the committee has taken into consideration both available budget and the amount of time it will take to finish the renovation, with minimum affect to all golfers.

The below layout and design of the golf hut can explain the planned renovation in more detail. The new layout has also been posted at the Golf Club House. Members are requested to take a good look at the plans and come forward with any suggestions or ideas for future improvements to our course and the club.

3 It has been decided to rearrange the existing layout so that more golfers can be accommodated without increasing the area. New restrooms for both men and lady golfers and a separate proper caddy area will be built.

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Golf Quotes Jokes

Wonderful Game of Golf! “Golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated. It satisfies the soul and frustrates the intellect. It is at the same time rewarding and maddening - it is without a doubt the greatest game mankind has ever invented.” ~Arnold Palmer “Golf is a game that is played on a fiveinch course – the distance between your ears.” ~Bobby Jones “Golf is a matter of confidence. If you think you cannot do it, there is no chance you will.” ~Henry Cotton

to kill a tarantula. And I took a 7 to do that.” ~Jim Murray

“The more I practice, the luckier I get.” ~Gary Player

“I don’t fear death, but I sure don’t like those threefooters for par.” ~Chi Chi Rodriguez “I was three over. One over a house, one over a patio, and one over a swimming pool.” ~George Brett

“Swing hard in case you hit it.” ~Dan Marino “My favorite shots are the practice swing and the conceded putt. The rest can never be mastered.” ~ Lord Robertson

“Actually, the only time I ever took out a one-iron was 62 March 2012

“There is no similarity between golf and putting; they are two different games, one played in the air, and the other on the ground.” ~Ben Hogan

himself. He replied that he & his wife had played the course every year - for over 20 years - but this year she had passed away and he kept the tee time in her memory. The twosome commented that they thought certainly someone would have been willing to take her spot. “So did I” he said - “but they all wanted to go to the funeral.” Scratch golfer Two women were put together as partners in the club tournament and met on the putting green for the first time. After introductions, the first golfer asked, “What’s your handicap?” “Oh, I’m a scratch golfer,” the other replied. “Really!” exclaimed the first woman, suitably impressed that she was paired up with her. “Yes, I write down all my good scores a nd scratch out the bad ones!”

“I had a wonderful experience on the golf course today. I had a hole in nothing. Missed the ball and sank the divot.” ~Don Adams “Golf is played by twenty million mature American men whose wives think they are out having fun.” ~Jim Bishop

Golf Jokes

Respect for the dead

Yes, and there’s the one about the party of golfers who notice a funeral passing by on a road adjacent to the course. Ralph suggests to the others, “Why don’t we pause a moment and show some respect for the dead.” So they remove their caps and stand in silence as car after car goes by. Finally, Ralph remarks, “There sure are a lot of cars. That person must have been well loved.” Bill replies, “Yes, she was. We would have been married 25 years tomorrow.” I kept her tee time Fred, playing as a single at St Andrews was teamed with a twosome. After a few holes, the twosome finally asked why he was playing such a beautiful course by

Drag George A fellow comes home after golf one Sunday afternoon, falls asleep on the couch, and doesn’t wake up until about 9 PM. His wife asks why he is so tired. “Well, You remember George, my golfing buddy? He died today, on the fourth green.” “That’s terrible, it must have been awful” she says. “It sure was,” he says, “For the next 14 holes it was drive, drag George, chip, drag George, putt, drag George...” Equal Privileges A country club didn’t allow women on the golf course. Eventually, there was enough pressure that they decided to allow women on the course during the week. The ladies were satisfied with this arrangement, formed a women’s club, and became active. After about 6 months, the club board received a letter from the women’s club complaining about the men littering everywhere on the golf course. Naturally, they just ignored the matter. After another 6 months, they received another letter reminding them of the previous letter and demanding action. After due deliberation, they sent the women a letter advising them that they had been granted ‘equal privileges’! March 2012

Dream

Course

Doonbeg Golf Club, Ireland

A Fantasy Course with 18 Most Beautiful Golf Holes on the Planet! hile daunting greens and tempting fairways around the globe conspire to dash the dreams of many a player, there are others that, no matter how frustrating, you have to marvel at.

Here are 18 beautiful golf holes from around the globe that turn their courses from great to magnificent. If you haven’t yet played them, it is time to plan your worldwide fantasy golf vacation. This compilation of 18 holes makes a dream course for golfers like you to enjoy some of the most beautiful golf holes on the planet! By the way, how many of these holes have you played? Check it out.

The Abaco Club, Bahamas

1. 1st hole - Doonbeg Golf Club, Ireland 567 yards, par 5 The most beautiful opening hole in the world, a gentle par five that plays slightly downhill to a green surrounded on three sides by towering dunes. From the fairway the Atlantic Ocean can be glimpsed through gaps in the dunes. 2. 2nd hole - Saujana Golf & Country Club, Malaysia 204 yards, par 3 Two hundred yards over a jungle filled valley to a three-tier green surrounded by bunkers and more jungle. Malaysia’s toughest hole. Deadly but beautiful. Jungle golf at its very best.

Saujana Golf & Country Club, Malaysia

3. 5th hole - The Abaco Club, Bahamas 312 yards, par 4 Every course needs a drivable par four and this one, with the turquoise waters of Winding Bay all along the left-hand side, is a classic. Don’t let the heavenly setting distract you from your game. 4. 7th hole - Kauri Cliffs Golf Club, New Zealand 220 yards, par 3 The spectacular panoramic view from this hole takes in small rocky islets and larger, lush green islands in the vast Pacific Ocean that begins beneath the cliff just right of the green. 64 March 2012

Kauri Cliffs Golf Club, New Zealand

Trump International Golf Club, Grenadines

Gary Player Country Club, Sun City, South Africa

Canyon Course, Blue Canyon Country Club, Thailand Anahita Golf Club, Mauritius

Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort, Malaysia

5. 13th hole - Trump International Golf Club, Grenadines 498 yards, par 5 The jewel in any golfing crown, this hole provides 360degree views of the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the neighboring Grenadine Islands. Never mind the golf, this one is perfect in all sorts of ways. 6. 4th hole - Anahita Golf Club, Mauritius 564 yards, par 5 A stunning par five at the best course on the paradise island of Mauritius. The green has nothing but the Indian Ocean behind it. Magnificent. 7. 5th hole - Clearwater Sanctuary Golf Resort, Malaysia 402 yards, par 4 Clearwater Sanctuary is set on a nature reserve reverberating with peace and tranquillity. This dogleg right hole leaves you with a second shot over a lily-filled pond to a green shaded by majestic rain trees behind it. After your shot to the green, get the camera out. 8. 13th hole - Canyon Course, Blue Canyon Country Club, Thailand 390 yards, par 4 Teeing off over water, this hole then doglegs sharp right around a canyon uphill to a shallow green. With a forest along the left of the fairway, beauty and danger are everywhere.

Pebble Beach Golf Links, California, United States

9. 7th hole - Pebble Beach Golf Links, California, United States 109 yards, par 3 The shortest par three in Major championship golf, with the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean pounding onto the rocks behind. 10. 9th hole - Gary Player Country Club, Sun City, South Africa 595 yards, par 5 A long par five framed by the South African bush where the strong and brave can risk going for the picturesque island green in two. March 2012 65

Red Course, Royal Dar Es Salam Golf Club, Morocco

Augusta National Golf Club, Georgia, United States

San Lorenzo Golf Club, Portugal

11. 9th hole - Turnberry Golf Club, Scotland 454 yards, par 4 With a professional tee perched 50 feet above breaking Irish Sea waves and a famous lighthouse to the left, the raw beauty of this hole represents the very best that links golf has to offer. 12. 12th hole - Augusta National Golf Club, Georgia, United States 155 yards, par 3 Always seen on TV during the Masters, the narrow green, fronted by a deep pond, is flanked front and back by deep bunkers, and framed from behind by red and purple azaleas. Frequently voted the most beautiful par three in golf. 66 March 2012

Turnberry Golf Club, Scotland

13. 13th hole - Red Course, Royal Dar Es Salam Golf Club, Morocco 383 yards, par 4 A gentle dogleg left down a perfect fairway between forests of cypress, palm, eucalyptus and cork-oak trees. A truly lovely hole on one of Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful courses. 14. 6th hole - San Lorenzo Golf Club, Portugal 421 yards, par 4 From the tee the view is stunning, with the Ria Formosa nature reserve, then golden beaches and then the Atlantic Ocean stretching out in front of you. The best golf view in Portugal.

18. 18th hole - Lemuria Golf Resort, Praslin Island, Seychelles 520 yards, par 5 From a tee perched several hundred feet above the fairway and providing panoramic views across the Indian Ocean to numerous other islands, this hole is a worthy 18th as it plunges down to a fairway carved through rainforest and then to a green fronted by a lake.

Lemuria Golf Resort, Praslin Island, Seychelles

Old Course, St Andrews, Scotland

15. 17th hole - Old Course, St Andrews, Scotland 455 yards, par 4 The toughest hole at the “Home of Golf,” with a narrow green sandwiched between a fiendish pot bunker and a road, all framed by the Royal & Ancient clubhouse and picturesque town of St. Andrews. 16. 16th hole - Cypress Point Club, California, United States 231 yards, par 3 Featuring a 200-yard carry over Pacific Ocean waves crashing against the rocks to a green on a promontory encircled by bunkers. If this doesn’t take your breath away nothing will. 17. 18th hole - Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai, UAE 430 yards, par 4 With the magnificent Dubai Creek along the left and a second shot over a lake to a green set in front of the world’s most stunning clubhouse, this hole is one of the most spendid in the Middle East.

Cypress Point Club, California, United States

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai, UAE

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Travel

‘Planning To Take Your Family Somewhere?... ...KL has something fun for everyone! Fly to Kuala Lumpur with Bangkok Airways – Asia’s Boutique Airline What makes Kuala Lumpur attractive? Well, whatever your idea is, KL has got something fun for everyone! Aquaria KLCC – This inner city aquarium offers viewing and interaction with many of the 150 species of the region’s native marine and wildlife. Exhibitions include The Highland, Jewels Of The Jungle, Flooded Forest, The Coast, The Living Reef and The Living Ocean. There’s also a touch pool great for the kids and the young at heart. Multi-media presentations are readily available as well as a spectacular underwater tunnel from which you can witness large, powerful sharks, beautiful corals and an assortment of colorful and interesting marine life and for the adventurous. Shark-dives are also available for those who are adventurous. Eye On Malaysia – A relatively new attraction and similar to the London Eye, this 60 meter high ferris wheel is fast becoming an iconic landmark of the city and proving popular with locals and tourists alike. The attraction has 42 gondolas, is fully air-conditioned and takes around 12 minutes to completely rotate. Night time rides are spectacular! National Science Centre - The centre has 2 levels of interactive science exhibitions featuring the Children’s Exploration Centre and galleries for teenagers and adults. There are also holiday activities such as the ‘Sci-Nature Quest ’ which all children will be engulfed in.

Petrosains - An interactive Science discovery centre, Petrosains tells the story of the petroleum industry in a fun and educational way. Kids will love the hands-on activities and learn a lot from over 7,000 sq m of exhibits. Bintang Walk - Bintang Walk has it all, from people trying to sell you caricatures to stalls offering tourist mementos. This is a busy street that moves at a fast pace and it is a great place to get lost for a few hours. Bukit Bintang is easily accessible by mono rail and taxi service. Jalan Petaling - One of the most fun things to do in Kuala Lumpur is to take advantage of the cheap shopping that’s available almost everywhere in the city. One of the best places to shop is on Jalan Petaling Street in Chinatown. Here there’s a daily market that sells food, clothing, bags, DVDs, CDs, jewelry, bags and much more. Prices are good and, if you can bargain well, you’ll get a good deal. Want more? Don’t hesitate to check out Kuala Lumpur’s highly popular attractions, including urban architectural wonders like the Petronas Tower and Menara KL Tower, historical constructions and monuments, culture and art, museums and galleries, recreational and nature excursions, including Batu Caves, Lake Gardens and KL Bird Park. Bangkok Airways operates a daily flight on its newest Samui-Kuala Lumpur route. The airline is offering ‘Triple Flyer Bonus’ points for travellers flying this new route from now until 31 May 2012. For more details, please visit www.bangkokair.com/flyerbonus. Fo r r e s e r v a t i o n o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e a s e v i s i t www.bangkokair.com or contact the airline call center at 1771 or 02 270 6699.

Happy exploring KL!

Batu Caves

Eye on Malaysia Petaling S

March 2012 69

ng, Sultan Abdul Samad Buildiuare Merdeka Sq

Living

Timeless Elegance and Refined Luxury Make this Graceful Ascent of Glass and Stone...

...The Ultimate in Urban Living! The Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok

he Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok combines timeless elegance and refined luxury with the cosmopolitan energy of a vibrantly modern metropolis, making itself the ultimate in urban living for its discerning residents to experience. Located on Rajdamri Road abutting Rajdamri BTS Skytrain station and a stone’s throw away from the back entrance (Gate No.9) of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club, the 47-storey high-rise - encompassing 53 residences and penthouses, 220 hotel rooms and suites - is a showpiece of modernity, which takes pride in providing its residents with expansive views over some of the city’s greenest areas, including the picturesque golf course of the Sports Club. A graceful ascent of glass and stone, the building is as captivating from the outside as the views it provides looking out from within, beautifully reflecting the city’s daytime vibrancy and shimmering lights of nightfall. Exquisite design, stunning views, meticulous attention to detail and uncompromising St. Regis services and amenities make for exceptional lifestyle at the most exclusive residences that have become a defining landmark in the city of Bangkok. From its inception, St. Regis has embodied a tradition of elegance while embracing a progressive spirit of innovation. This legacy lives on at the St. Regis Residences Bangkok. ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS Designed by leading New York-based Brennan Beer Gorman Architects (BBG), The Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok is destined to become one of the city skyline’s defining silhouettes. Brennan Beer Gorman Monk Interiors Australia’s interior design for The St. Regis Bangkok translates a century of glamour into cutting-edge elegance. Clean palettes and finely-finished spaces create residences of enduring style,

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prime for embellishment. BBG and BBGM are award-winning architectural and design firms, internationally recognized and consistently ranking in the top five worldwide for hospitality design. THE RESIDENCES The Residences at The St. Regis redefine urban living, combining sophistication with unmatched service. Rising from the 25 th to 45 th floors, there are 53 sumptuously furnished and amazingly spacious residences, including 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom residences, deluxe penthouses and duplex penthouses sized 325 to 920 Sq m with privaate pools offering a select few the privilege of a matchless, bespoke experience! The 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom residences translate a centur y of glamour and modern elegance. With magnificently designed living areas offering panoramic views of the vast city skyline through floor-to-ceiling glass walls, sophisticated kitchens equipped with marble floors built-in shelves, discreet lighting and clean lines, luxurious bedrooms and decadent bathrooms, each residence expresses a sense of intimacy and grandeur beyond comparison! THE ST. REGIS SERVICES Being attached to The St. Regis 5-star hotel ensures that the residents enjoy services and amenities of an exceptionally high standard. With concierge and private butler services at your beck and call around the clock, none of your needs is left unattended to. The residents also enjoy privileged access to the hotel’s finest restaurants and bars, including Zuma that serves authentic Japanese cuisine in a modern, organic setting, JoJo, that offers superlative Italian dishes, Viu that serves international cuisine offering superb views of the Sports Club and beyond, and the lavishly

Bedroom - 3-BR Residence

Wine Corner - 4-BR Residence

Dining - 4-BR Residence

adorned St. Regis Bar that takes its inspiration from the original in the New York City and offers an extraordinary selection of premier and unique spirits, classic cocktails, champagne and caviar. The residents can also pamper themselves with rejuvenating treatments and therapies at Elemis Spa. THE ASTOR RESIDENCE LOUNGE With an exquisitely designed private swimming pool, separate male and female Jacuzzi and saunas, fully-equipped Fitness Center and showcasing 270-degree views of the Bangkok skyline, the Astor Residence Lounge is an invigorating haven of wellness, accessible solely by the residents and their guests. A multi-purpose room, meeting room and private lounge are also available for the residents only. DINING Lang Suan Road, a short walk from The Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok, is famed for its array of dining spots and delectable cafés with a full span of international cuisines. In close proximity, bustling Silom Road, Sathorn Road, and Ratchaprasong Square feature an extensive mix of dining experiences, from perfectly grilled sidewalk satay to haute cuisine rooftop dining, along with many of Bangkok’s award-winning venues. SHOPPING Rajadamri Road, on which The St. Regis is located, runs adjacent to Bangkok’s main commercial center. Commanding views from St. Regis reveal the tracks of the skytrain as they carve through Bangkok’s bustling commercial arter y, encompassing over 10 world-class major retail centers within a 2-km stretch. LUMPINI PARK Just a few minutes’ walk from The Residences at The

Living Area - 4-BR Residence

St. Regis Bangkok, Lumpini Park welcomes visitors with 14 acres of gently rolling green, footpaths, streams and man-made lakes. It’s an ideal place for an early morning jog, paddle boating, leisurely strolls, family picnics or an afternoon enjoying of Bangkok’s simple pleasures. BTS SKYTRAIN Shuttling serenely past building façades and over the traffic below, the Bangkok Skytrain has transformed urban living. From The St. Regis, a dedicated walkway connects you directly to the station and hence to all of Bangkok ’s major business and commercial centers. A single stop whisks you into the exciting bustle of one of Asia’s top shopping hubs, featuring the world-class Siam Paragon and Central World shopping complexes. Also one stop away are the Silom business district and Central Chidlom department store. AWARDS The Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok bagged two prestigious awards at the Thanachart Bank Thailand Property Awards 2011 - the Best Luxury Condo Development (Bangkok) and the Best Residential Interior Design. The project developer Minor International PLC also received the Best Developer Award on the same stage. Previously, the project secured Best Condo Development (Bangkok) and Best Condo Development (Thailand) Awards at the Thailand Property Awards 2010. To schedule a visit to The Residences at The St. Regis, please contact Mr. James Knowles, Vice President Sales & Marketing, at +66 (0)85 484 8776, or Khun Kitima Kritiyachotipakorn, Director of Sales & Marketing, at +66(0)85 484 8741 or send an e-mail to jknowles@minornet.com | kitima_kr@minornet.com. For more information, please visit www.stregisbangkokresidences.com.

March 2012

Resort

X2 Resort – An Awe-inspiring New Dimension of Luxury Designed for the Spirit!

2 Resorts, Thailand’s first chain of design resorts and hotels, are determined to not only break out from the traditional design concept of tropical resorts in the region but also redefine luxury in completely new terms, and cross to (X2) an awe-inspiring new dimension of luxury designed for the spirit! Launched in 2007, X2 Resorts (pronounced ‘Cross-to’) have a very unique and unequivocal persona that is embraced by all elements of the boutique properties. Whether it is design, service, location…..X2 resorts always exhibit: • Soulful tranquility - that provides sensual pleasures and thoughtfulness • Freedom of space, process and rules - allowing guests to set their own agenda • Simplicity in form and service - completely understated and unfussed

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The X2 owners recognised that those individuals who appreciate style and design were becoming less satisfied with traditional tropical resort designs which proliferated in the Asian region. Not only were such resorts (large and small) becoming more and more similar, but the service and product experience were becoming increasingly expected, undifferentiated and generally unrewarding from an emotional and spiritual perspective. With this in mind, X2 Resorts were designed and built with a primary goal to ‘satisfy the spirit’. This was partly achieved via architectural design, but more importantly through natural beauty of the location and the meshing of the structures with the canvas provided by nature. To achieve this goal, the design of resorts was underpinned by several important X2 characteristics such as simplicity in style, invisibility of design, privacy without isolation, natural articulation of structure and homogeneous execution with the environment.

A design resort of more than just beautiful, high quality architecture…it is also about its integration with quality of service…..but of an untraditional nature. Many luxury hotels are guilty of assuming that more is better, and that the lower staff bow is indicative of the quality of service. X2 resort clients see through such false and largely unnecessary fuss. Instead, X2 resorts deliver service that is: • • • •

Unobtrusive and unrestricting Friendly, informal and social Provides variety and choice Value and rewarding

Resorts by X2 appeal to people who appreciate style in a genuine, pure sense. Almost an anti-brand; X2 does what large hotel chains cannot do, and a lot of that comes back to being human and unpretentious.

unknowns…with each turn of a corner uncovering a new visual experience. Lighting throughout the resort is also invisible. The general areas have a soft hidden lighting whereby structure is illuminated without being obviously lit. All X2 Resorts have their signature 4K restaurant (pronounced ‘fork’) and bar. The restaurant menu is a mix of eastern and western dishes and the best of fusion. Local products in season tend to dominate the menu, which is prepared by our international chef. Great food and wine is a hall mark at X2 so guests can be assured that their stay will also be a culinary delight. For more information or to book your accommodation at X2 Kui Buri, please call +66 3260-1412 or visit www.x2resorts.com.

The first X2 Resort is at Kui Buri, a 3 hour drive south of Bangkok, and half an hour south of the famous beachside resort town of Hua Hin – where the Thai royal family frequently resides. Other resorts in the chain are X2 Samui on the beautiful island of Koh Samui and X2 Koh Kood. X2 Samui resort occupies 5 acres (12 Rai) of land, with 27 villas. Most have private swimming pools, and outside areas. At Kui Buri, the general area is underdeveloped and peaceful with the only communities being local fishing villages. The resort is located on virgin beachfront land covering over 8 acres (12 Rai). The 23 semi private villas each have their own terrace, garden and private pools. The existing landscape of large well developed trees was kept, and provides a unique atmosphere punctuated by large open spaces and unique natural horticulture. The challenge was to create identical villas that can each provide a unique experience. To answer this interesting challenge the orientation of the villa relative to its terrace, pool, garden area are different for each unit. This provides a unique experience and outlook even though the villa construction is actually identical. The idea for the use of stones comes from the seasonal appearance of sea pebbles that find them self scattered along the beach during winter months. The ‘mountain rock’ used throughout the resort are all from local quarries. The external stone walls of the villas appear as wall and not as a building, creating an invisibility of design. What is a structural wall for one villa appears as a fence wall to other villa. By using this invisible wall design and clever landscaping; villas are private without the need to be encased in high fences. This reduces construction costs and importantly allows cool sea breezes to pass through the villa area with minimal disruption. It provides privacy without isolation. The boardwalk arrangement was developed from a maze, where a journey is an experience of March 2012 73

Wine & Dine

Cool Off Yourself This Sweltering Summer... ...with Khao Chae at Café Boca! - By Simon Nathan

ummer is back and the city has been experiencing more sweltering heat than ever for over a week now, thanks to rising mercury levels. It is time to get something to cool off! What best can you do than finding a royal Thai summer dish – Khao Chae?

As many of you may know, Khao Chae is a traditional rice dish served in iced jasmine-scented water. Literally, Khao Chae means ‘rice soaked in water’. Despite its association as a royal delicacy, it actually boasts of Mon provenance. The Mon people of Thailand’s Central Plains first cooked Khao Chae to mark the onset of their lunar New Year. Khao Chae made its first appearance in the court of King Rama II as a means of relief during the hot season. This Mon treat was then adopted into the royal Thai court to become a palatial favorite. King Rama V was known to be extremely fond of this dish. Since then, Khao Chae has grown to become a beloved specialty of Thailand. With its humble origins from a simple Mon recipe, Khao Chae has metamorphosed into a complex, multi-dish variety that’s found today. Due to the elaborate process required to make the side dishes, it is available widely only during Thailand’s hottest months from mid-March until the end of April.

absolutely free of any chemicals and toxins, the quality of condiments used, the number of accompaniments served along with the rice and the expertise and patience showed by the cook in preparing this one of a kind complex dish, which is highly time consuming and arduous. Lastly, it also depends on the way the dish is presented at the table. Khao Chae is the only Thai dish that can truly be considered as ‘royal Thai cuisine’. Making this wonderful delicacy is a matter of dexterity and art, while feasting on it is an artistic ritual. Then why should I compromise and go for some kind of crap. After all, I won’t be eating it every day and it is usually available only during the Songkran season. So, why not I have the best Khao Chae in town? When those thoughts overwhelmed my mind, I immediately launched an intense search for an original Khao Chae that is a feast to the eye as well! A friend suggested me to go to Koh Kret but I preferred not to since it is very far and I don’t have that luxurious time. Instead, I wanted to try for it in the CBD area. And that’s how I landed at a restaurant on Silom Road. If I buy a couple of silvery logos of three-pointed star in circle and weld them in the front and back of my car, it won’t become a Mercedes Benz! I got a similar feeling when I tasted Khao Chae (served with just two side dishes) at that Silom restaurant. Disappointed, I continued my hunt. I even tried the dish at a couple of pricey, up-market restaurants. It was good at both the places but certainly not the best!

Come summer and the Songkran festive season, from road-side vendors to street-corner eateries to makeshift stalls in food courts, all woo foodies with ‘authentic’ Khao Chae. But how true their claims of authenticity are is a matter of debate. During the season, this special dish is available at various places for as low as 45 baht to as high as 450 baht. But why is such a vast difference in its prices?

Having heard about Khao Chae being offered exclusively during the festive season at Café Boca at Hansar Bangkok hotel, I went there to give it a try but for one last time (I thought to myself).

What really influence the price are the usage of fresh organic ingredients and vegetables that are

Entering Café Boca, I ordered what I’ve been desperate for without even scanning through the

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menu. After 15 minutes of wait, Khao Chae was served on my table. The moment I took off the lid, sweet fragrance emanated from the rice bowl and engulfed me. I closed my eyes momentarily to just bask in the jasmine and rose petal scents. Soon, I slipped into my own heaven! They charged me 350++ baht for the ‘pleasure’ which I felt was fully worth it. After feasting on my Khao Chae with as many as 6 side dishes - fried sweet shrimp paste balls, stuffed green pepper, sweet shredded pickle turnip, fried stuffed shallots, sweet Yee-son fish, sweet shredded pork, carved green mango - I genuinely felt ‘YES! I have got what I have been look for!’

use only insecticide-free and chemical-free jasmine flowers and rose petals in making scented water. The vegetables we use too are organic and free of any chemicals and toxins. Also, we use only the top quality shrimp paste and our special jasmine rice is exclusively meant for Khao Chae,” explained Chef Chatree. If you want to treat yourself and your family to this traditional summer delicacy, You are welcome to try it at Café Boca. Touch wood, they won’t let you down! The restaurant, which accommodates 40 guests inside with spzacious and comfortable sofas and chairs, is open daily from 7am to 10pm. To book your table at Café Boca, call (66) 02-209-1234 or send an e-mail to reservations@hansarbangkok.com.

Curious to know what makes Khao Chae at Café Boca stand out from the rest, I spoke to Hansar Bangkok’s Executive Chef Chatree Wongsriphaisan. “Well...Khao Chae isn’t like any other dish. It demands a lot of time and skill to prepare. We take all the care needed to make the dish taste grand. Further, we

March 2012

Equipme

Cobra Puma Golf Launches New AMP Series Golf Clubs

obra Puma Golf has launched its new AMP Series golf clubs equipped with advanced technology and unique design besides unveiling the new Baffler T-Rail fairway wood and hybrid golf clubs. TAFF Co., Ltd., the only official distributor of Cobra Puma Golf in Thailand introduced the new Cobra Puma Golf products at “Cobra…It’s Go Time Friends” event held at Siam Paragon on 15 March. The event was attended by Cobra Puma Golf Asia (exclude Korea, Japan) Head Mr. Jeffrey Soh and TAFF Managing Director Khun Thanayous Kositsakul. The new AMP Series, which has received wide acceptance in USA and European market, includes AMP Driver, AMP Irons, AMP Hybrids, AMP Fairways. The distinctive qualification of the product is not only the full pack of highly advanced and innovative technology in each club that brought maximum forgiveness, longer distance and more accuracy but also the uniqueness in the design. The color scheme of the club - black PVD and vibrant orange on the clubhead, shaft and grip - is based on the theme ‘Orange Out’ which is the favorite color of Rickie Fowler to celebrate that now he represents the full range of Cobra Puma Golf branded products. Rickie Fowler rocks golf industry with his best performance, stand out style, and joy for the game.

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Cobra Puma Golf also launched the new Baffler T-Rail Fairways and Hybrids, an all time number 1 best selling of Baffler sought after by many golfers worldwide. The new Baffler T-Rail Fairways and Hybrids are dominant for their ease of hitting and forgiveness and always deliver high performance in the long game. The newly launched Cobra Puma Golf products are available now at the company outlets at All Star Driving Range, Sports Mall of Siam Paragon, The Emporium, The Mall (Bang Kae, Ngarm Wongwan, Laem Chabang), SuperSports Zone in Central World, Central Bangna, Pinklao, Laoprao, Pattaya, Pukhet, Chaeng Wattana, Mega Bangna (Plan to open by 2012) SportsWorld at Fashion Island, Outlet Mall at Pattaya, Cha-Am, Ayudhaya, and its partner shops in Bangkok at Thaniya Plaza, CNX, Mai Golf and at Pattaya, Chonburi, Hua Hin, Korat, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

To allow golfers to have real experience of the new AMP Products, Cobra Puma Golf will organise â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cobra Demo Daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at leading driving ranges in Bangkok and Metropolitan area starting from 3 April at All Star Complex. Customers who join the demo can have chance to test the clubs, check their performance with Trackman II performance testing machine, get quick tips from professional golf instructors and also win prizes worth over 70,000 baht that include AMP Driver, AMP Fairway, AMP Hybrid and Golf Bag. For more information and to stay up to date with the latest Cobra Puma Golf products and activities, please visit www.cobra.in.th or www.facebook. com/CobraThailand.

March 2012 77

Wheels

2012 Maserati GranCabrio Fendi A

fter the marriage of Gucci and Fiat, comes another fashion house/car collaboration, Maserati and Fendi.

Popular Italian car maker, Maserati, has teamed up with the Italian fashion design company Silvia Venturini Fendi and produced a special edition of the famous GranCabrio model. Interior Maserati’s GranCabrio special edition is instantly recognizable due to the unique Grigio Fiamma paint job it has received. The paint job is actually 3 layers of color: two dark gray coats followed by a layer of iridescent gold. The unique paint job isn’t the only aspect of the special edition GranCabrio to drool over, however. The effect of the Fendi/Maserati collaboration is clearly visible throughout the exterior and the interior of the 78 March 2012

GranCabrio Fendi. Exterior Outside the car, the sleek design of Maserati’s GranCabrio finished with the Fendi fashion house paint job says pretty much all you need to know. Inside the car, you’ll find a specially crafted logo that features the Maserati Trident, Fendi logo plus the five digit series number located in several places. The silver oval plaque bearing the specially designed collaboration logo is found on the dashboard, near the passenger’s seat plus on each side of the folding roof. Further marking the collaboration, is the presence of the Fendi double F logo on the seats, while the Maserati Trident is featured on each of the headrests. Fendi’s high quality leather adorns a lot of the interior, interspersed with wood trims around the doors, dashboard, gear lever and even the floor mats.

Performance Despite all the changes that have been made to the GranCabrioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look, the technology remains the same - you still get to experience the power of the V8 engine. The 4.7 liter engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 440 horsepower enables you to reach a top speed of close to 180mph. The 2012 Maserati GranCabrio Fendi truly represents another perfect marriage between fashion house and car maker. The sleek redesign and the Maserati technology together make something that is truly unique and desirable. March 2012 79

Specifications General Info Vehicle Type: Convertible Coupe

Base Price: NA

Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75 liters)

Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions Length: 192 in. (488.1 cm)

Wheel Base: 115.8 in. (294.2 cm)

Height: 53 in. (135.3 cm)

Width: 75 in. (191.5 cm)

Curb Weight: 4365 lbs (1980 kg

Maximum Seating: 4 people Performance

Engine: V8

Horsepower: 440 HP

Max RPM: 7000 RPM

Torque: 361 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm

Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic

0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds

Maximum Speed: 176 mph (283 km/h)

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Golf Laws

20 Funny Universal Golf Laws LAW 1: No matter how bad your last shot was, the worst is yet to come. This law does not expire on the 18th hole, since it has the supernatural tendency to extend over the course of a tournament, a summer and, eventually, a lifetime. LAW 2: Your best round of golf will be followed almost immediately by your worst round ever. The probability of the latter increases with the number of people you tell about the former. LAW 3: Brand new golf balls are water-magnetic. Though this cannot be proven in the lab, it is a known fact that the more expensive the golf ball, the greater its attraction to water! LAW 4: Golf balls never bounce off of trees back into play. If one does, the tree is breaking a law of the universe and should be cut down. LAW 5: No matter what causes a golfer to muff a shot, all his playing partners must solemnly chant “You looked up,” or invoke the wrath of the universe. LAW 6: The higher a golfer’s handicap, the more qualified he deems himself as an instructor. LAW 7: Every par-three hole in the world has a secret desire to humiliate golfers. The shorter the hole, the greater its desire! LAW 8: Topping a 3-iron is the most painful torture known to man. LAW 9: Palm trees eat golf balls! LAW 10: Sand is alive. If it isn’t, how do you explain the way it works against you? LAW 11: A severe slice is a thing of awesome power and beauty. LAW 12: Hazards attract; fairways repel, it’s a universal magnetic phenomenon. LAW 13: All 3-woods are demon-possessed. LAW 14: Golf balls from the same “sleeve” tend to follow one another, particularly out of bounds or into the water. (see Law three) LAW 15: Golf carts always run out of juice/water at the farthest point from the clubhouse. LAW 16: “Nice lag” can usually be translated to “lousy putt.” Similarly, “tough break” can usually be translated “way to miss an easy one, sucker.” LAW 17: The person you would most hate to lose to will always be the one who beats you. LAW 18: The last three holes of a round will automatically adjust your score to what it really should be.

“Those who see Indian as a culinary adventure could find a reassuring guide in Indus. Not only is it an ambiant spot where beautiful people flock to be seen, the kitchen does a good job serving up much lighter versions of the usual favorites like biriyani, kebabs, tikkas and seafood. they also have a beautiful backyard where you can enjoy your appetizers with cocktails.” BK magazine

LAW 19: Golf should be given up at least twice per month. LAW 20: All vows taken on a golf course shall be valid only until the sunset of the same day. 81

Sukhumvit Soi 26 Tel: 02-258-4900 www.indusbangkok.com

Money Matters

Your Rights as a Financial Planning Client 4. You have the right to be treated fairly Your planner should treat you the same way he or she would like to be treated in a professional relationship. This involves clearly stating what services will be provided and at what price. The planner should also explain the risks associated with his or her financial recommendations and any potential conflicts of interest. For example, does the planner gain personally or financially from your purchase of a particular product or from the outcome of a suggested strategy?

orking with a financial planner can be a rewarding and valuable experience for you and your family. If you’ve decided to work with a financial planner, it’s important to understand your rights in this professional relationship. This describes the kind of treatment you deserve from your financial planner and helps you recognize when he or she is putting your interests and needs first. You can take an active role in shaping your financial future when you know your rights and what to expect from your financial planner. 1. You have the right to a planner who has integrity Trust between you and your financial planner is central to a successful financial planning relationship. You rely on your planner’s honesty, professionalism and abilities to achieve your financial and life goals. When you know that your planner takes his or her professional obligations seriously, and places principles over personal gain, you can develop the type of partnership that is crucial to the success of any professional relationship. 2. You have the right to objective advice Your needs should be at the heart of all recommendations made by your financial planner. Your planner should use his or her experience and judgment to carefully consider your situation, and provide you with advice that best meets your goals. Sometimes, this objectivity may require the planner to explain that your goals are unrealistic given your current resources and financial commitments. Your planner may then suggest alternative goals or priorities. 3. You have the right to a planner who is competent You have the right to expect your planner to demonstrate an appropriate level of knowledge to offer financial planning advice, such as attainment of the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification or Chartered Financial Consultant or Certified Public Accountant-Personal Financial Specialist designations. Your planner should complete continuing education courses as part of his or her ongoing commitment to competency.

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5. You have the right to privacy To get the best results from your financial planning relationship, you need to divulge relevant personal and financial information to your financial planner on a regular basis. Your planner should keep this information in confidence, only sharing it with others to conduct business on your behalf, at your consent, or when ordered to do so by the courts. 6. You have the right to a planner who is professional Your planner should not provide investment advice or stock brokerage services unless he or she is properly qualified and licensed to do so, as required by state or federal law. If your situation requires expertise that your planner does not possess, he or she should suggest other professionals who may assist you. 7. You have the right to a planner who is diligent Your financial planner should discuss your goals and objectives with you and explain what you can expect from the relationship before engaging you as a client. Once the planner has determined that he or she can assist you and has gathered sufficient information, the planner should make - and, if appropriate implement - recommendations that are suitable for you. A diligent planner reasonably investigates the products or services he or she recommends. According to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) research, more than 40 percent of Americans feel that they are not in control of their finances. If you would like to better manage your financial situation, a professional financial planner may be able to help you. Knowing how a planner should work with you, and how you will be treated as a financial planning client, will put you in the driver’s seat when it comes to taking control of your financial future. If you are currently working with a financial planner and are unsatisfied with the relationship, talk to the planner about your concerns. If you cannot mutually agree on how to improve the situation, you may want to find another planner. To lodge a complaint against a planner, contact one or more of the following organizations listed, depending on which licenses, certifications or designations the planner holds.