Eastern Star
1st Dave Smith (16) – 39 points
2nd Peter Chai Tsai (28) – 33 points
Thursday 10th July 2025
Pattaya Country Club
1st Willem Lasonder (36) – 39 points
2nd Peter Chai Tsai (29) – 37 points
Dave Smith Ignites Eastern Star – Fairways Were Shook
Tuesday’s forecast looked about as trustworthy as a politician’s promise—but coffee was hot, spirits were high, and the clouds were just feeling dramatic. The sun played hide-and-seek, but rain was politely told to stay home. The course? Flawless. The vibes? Peak golfer zen.
Competition brewed like our morning espresso: strong, bold, and occasionally bitter (especially for the runner-ups). While the course wasn’t giving out birdies for free, Dave Smith showed up like he owned the place, casually dropping a cool 39 stableford points, leaving the rest of us wondering if he’s part cyborg.
Meanwhile, Peter Chai Tsjai and Allan Cassin battled it out for second, with Peter sneaking ahead via countback magic. As for Stephen Ford—after last week’s glory, he seemed committed to balancing the universe by chasing down the spoon like it was the final prize in a reality show.
Near pins? Sam Jeffery took home two, as if he’d installed a magnet in his golf balls. Neale snagged the third, proving good things happen when you’re just quietly excellent.
☀️ Willem “Breeze Warrior” Lasonder Dominates Pattaya Country Club
Thursday rolled around with clear skies and just enough breeze to tousle your visor. Pattaya Country Club rolled out a front nine so pristine you’d think Augusta took a holiday in Thailand. The back nine? Let’s say it was the golf version of a plot twist.
Fourteen golfers braved the grass jungle, and most scored like pros—with only two sneaking under the 30-point mark. Things got spicy on the back nine: Peter Chai started off swinging like a champion, took the lead halfway in, and then—nerves. Suddenly it was Willem Lasonder back in front, like a golf ninja, finishing with the glorious 39 stableford points. Runner-up? Yup, Peter again, this time nudging out Neale Savery on a countback. Deja vu, anyone?
A bonus joy—Dave Lyon from Australia made his grand reappearance, driving like Crocodile Dundee chasing bogeys. We handed him the spoon as a token of both love and gentle roast. Golf gods demand balance.
Near pins for Stephen Ford, Hidde Bijl and Nigel Irving
