HUA HIN • CHA-AM • PRANBURI
ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
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Hua Hin Jazz Festival Set to Swing Get ready to enjoy two days of jazz on the beach at this iconic Hua Hin event headlined by the top names in the local jazz scene. p.6
TRANSPORT MEGA-PROJECTS TO BENEFIT HUA HIN The city is set to be one of the major beneficiaries of large projects put on the fast track by the Ministry of Transport. p.2
Udon Thani Is Calling Just over an hour by a direct flight from Hua Hin airport, Udon Thani is ideal for a weekend getaway or a longer, more immersive stay in the northeast. p.38
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Cover Story
ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Motorway
HUA HIN TO BENEFIT FROM FAST-TRACKED MOT PROJECTS Bang Yai-Kanchanaburi intercity motorway
Hua Hin is set to be one of the major beneficiaries of large projects put on the fast track by the Ministry of Transport (MOT).
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he MOT is moving ahead with land, water, and air transport infrastructure projects to boost the economy amidst the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, Minister Saksayam Chidchob revealed during the opening of the event “MOT 2020: Move On Together” at the Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, which was attended by top ministry officials, representatives of public- and private-sector organisations, the media, and members of the public. Construction and improvement of land transport links to the southern region are being sped up to make travel more convenient and less time-consuming. The expansion of Rama 2 Road and construction of a new, 4-lane highway connecting Wang Manao Intersection in Pak Tho District of Ratchaburi with Highway 3510 in Phetchaburi’s Nong Ya Plong District is expected to significantly reduce the amount of
traffic congestion and shrink travel time from Bangkok to southern provinces. Other road projects earmarked for acceleration include the intercity motorways linking Bang Yai and Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom and Cha-am, and Hat Yai and the Thai-Malaysia border. A number of other projects are also being sped up with the goal to make Thailand an important sea transport hub in the ASEAN region. These include Rama 2 Road
the construction of large-scale terminals and deep-water terminals and a land bridge connecting the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. In air transport infrastructure, works are under way to increase the capacity of airports in the southern region, including the renovation of airports in Hua Hin, Phuket, Hat Yai, Krabi, Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani, Narathiwat and the construction of the new Betong Airport, due to open by the end of this year. Improvements to Hua Hin Airport, including runway expansion and construction of a new terminal, are funded by a budget of more than 350 million baht. Mr Saksayam envisions it becoming an international airport serving tourists from around the ASEAN region.
From the Editor
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f there is one thing that makes me happy as an editor-in-chief during this time of stress and crisis, it is a letter of praise and appreciation from one of our dedicated followers. Late last month, a foreign gentleman dropped by our office, handed me a letter and said, “This is for you, please read it”. Then he quietly left. Surprised, I couldn’t even remember the last time I’d received a ‘real’ letter like this. It was hand-written and personally handed to me, unlike the majority of letters we receive nowadays, which come via electronic mail. Anyway, after the man had been gone for about an hour, I opened his half-page letter and started reading. I hadn’t even finished the first paragraph when I felt a smile on my face. I had thought it might be another complaint letter – like those I often receive from our readers, expats and/or concerned citizens – but I was wrong… It was a very beautiful letter of appreciation and praise for Thailand and how the writer chose the country as his last and only place to live in. Now let me just say, thank goodness that 2021 is just around the corner. If things had been normal, at this time of year I would be more than happy that the year would soon be through. Many of us would start planning, travelling and gift-shopping for people we love.
But this has been a tough year for everyone, so plans for huge celebrations are likely to be few and far between, and small parties with family and friends the order of the day. Before we plunge headlong towards the end of 2020, with the challenges of 2021 still ahead, December will be a month of celebrations, as it has always been. In our hometown of Hua Hin, two spectacular events are the highlights of the near-year-end season: Loy Krathong, which took place a few days ago, and the annual Hua Hin International Jazz Festival, slated to take place on 4-5 December. Although not as grand as in years past, the festival will still bring us joy during this difficult time. Jazz music and cool weather are a perfect match, don’t you agree? I can’t wait to enjoy both. I have said this before but let me say it again: Thanks so much to all our readers and advertisers on behalf of the Hua Hin Today team for your support through these difficult times. Although I pray that nothing worse than what we’ve been through will ever happen, given our recent experiences, I believe that whatever adversities lie ahead, we will get through them. “Let the good times begin!”
Yours truly, Ms Visa Chimdee (Editor-in-Chief)
HUA HIN TODAY
MANAGEMENT Honorary Chairman: Dr Thanachai Theerapattanavong Chairman: kittikorn Theerapattanavong CEO: Titikorn Theerapattanavong CFO: Duangsuda Pirompin EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief: Visa Chimdee Sub-Editor: Wiriya Sungkhaniyom Art Director: Panyaporn Panyachote ADVERTISING Visa Chimdee Tel: 086 3693 604 e-mail: visa@huahintoday.com MARKETING Digital Marketing: Natcha Poohpumake PRODUCTION Production Manager: Lamai Wongwanakul JAYNALYN MEDIA Co Ltd (Hua Hin) Address: 87/3 Soi Hua Thanon 19, KhaoTakiab Road, Nong kae, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110 Website: huahintoday.com Facebook: facebook.com/huahintodaynews Twitter: twitter.com/huahintoday Tel: 086 3693 604, 032 900 150 Email: visa@huahintoday.com JAYNALYN MEDIA Co Ltd (Head Office) Address: 194 Soi Pridi Banomyong 46 (Soi Chit Wari), Sukhumvit 71 Road, Klong Tan Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel: 02 391 9595
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR T
GOOD WORK FROM THE MAYOR OF HUA HIN The Mayor of Hua Hin, Khun Nopporn Wuttikul, recently inspected the large Car Park near Phrom Suk Rd, Soi 68, to assess the dumping of rubbish there which has been an eyesore to the city for years. Tourist buses visiting Hua Hin are likely to park in this area which would mean that the first impression tourists get of our great city is a rubbish dump. The Mayor did not like what he saw and immediately ordered termination of the garbage dumping spot. He also instructed his office to resurface the pot holes and make the car park much more even. Well done Mr Mayor. Dear Mr Bernard, Thank you for your encouraging letter to the Mayor. It’s also been the duty of city officials to look after Hua Hin’s environment. I agree they always do a good job at the end of the day. Although there is still room for improvement in our hometown, I believe Hua Hin will always change for the better. Regards, Ms Visa Chimdee
he undersigned has now had his residence in Thailand for thirteen years and I have never felt better than here. I am very grateful. A paradise for a retiree. Have left the country once in all this year and then with my partner, mostly so that she could see a small part of my homeland. My accommodation and the simple comfortable life I have found here exceed my expectation, much naturally depending of my partner. In the beginning, i had some tough years where i lived, with problems most of the time. Not due to Thais but to a countryman owner of the area who constantly tried to trick people on all kinds of charges. It is easy to fool a newcomer. After I and my partner bought our own home, life became more comfortable. I have always been kindly received by the authorities. Most people are friendly and uncomplicated. Where I live, we also have a few cosy restaurants that provide good food for a good price and there I can enjoy my time hanging out with good friends. My hope is that I will be able to stay here and that the government will make it easy for us old people who want to live in the country and with joy taking care of our partners provided that we take care of ourselves. After all, we are guests but we also love this country. Once again, Thank you Thailand. Dear Mr Haakan, Thank you for such a beautiful letter. It is really not easy for anyone who arrived in Thailand for the first time, but I’m glad you already have adjusted and are enjoying every moment of your time in Thailand. I wish you good health and all the best! Kind regards, Ms Visa Chimdee
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Local News
CLAY CAVES OF KHAO SAM ROI YOT
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ncient cave paintings and stone tools dating back millennia could shed light on prehistoric life in the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park area. An archaeological team from the 1st Regional Office of the Fine Arts Department (Ratchaburi) has been exploring caves in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park jointly with park staff. In May, they discovered seven prehistoric murals in a clay cave some 125 metres above sea level in Ban Phu Noi, Sam Roi Yot District. The paintings are believed to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old. Earlier discoveries of ancient tools, pottery fragments and bivalve shells led archeologist Kannikar Premjai to team up with the head of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Mr Roongroj Asawakultharin, to re-explore the clay caves. What they found during the latest exploration showed traces of human habitation, said Ms Premjai. “The discovery of prehistoric stone tools and fragments of prehistoric and historic pottery is very rewarding,” she said. Large flaked-stone objects shaped like a water drop were found in very well-preserved condition. Experts contacted by Ms Premjai’s office have given preliminary confirmation that these objects are prehistoric tools. Cave murals were first discovered in the area in 1996 and the Fine Arts Department later made a copy of the paintings. Some 20 years later, another discovery was made at Tham Wo in Hup Ta Khot. These discoveries gave rise to the Western Region Prehistoric Archaeological Exploration Project, which focuses on the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park area with the goal of finding colored cave paintings and traces of human habitation that could shed light on the area’s ecosystem in prehistoric times. According to Ms Premjai, the most recent discoveries show that the area has a rich ecosystem. The next step for the archaeological team is to study and analyse their discoveries in order to see whether they share similarities with artifacts found elsewhere. Sam Roi Yot District Chief Pitak Phitsiriwattanasut hailed the team’s discoveries and said his district planned to join forces with park officials and other relevant agencies to develop and promote the park’s archaeological heritage as tourist attraction. Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park is a tourist attraction in the upper parts of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province with links to Hua Hin, Pran Buri and Kui Buri. Endowed with sandy beaches, lush forests, mountains and caves, it has great but largely untapped potential for ecotourism.
WI-FI SIGNAL EXPANSION IN CHAT CHAI MARKET AREA H ua Hin Deputy Mayor Montri Chuphu recently met with representatives from True Corporation to discuss WiFi signal installation in the Chat Chai Market area. During the meeting at Hua Hin municipal office, True presented details of their installation plan to boost signal and expand coverage range. To comply with regulations, True was asked to formally submit a request to the relevant committee to use the area for installation purposes.
HUA HIN TODAY
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Local News
HUA HIN JAZZ FESTIVAL SET TO SWING W
hen the rainy season ends and the weather starts to cool, it’s time for the city to gear up for international events. And the season’s biggest event this year is set to be Hua Hin International Jazz
Festival. Normally, the festival is held during the summertime to support the local economy and give local tourism a boost during what is the low season for Hua Hin. But this year’s event, like many others around the world, has been disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic and the restrictions it imposes on daily life. Happily, the festival has not been cancelled altogether, just postponed to the first weekend in December. Popular saxophonist Sekpol Unsamran, better known for his stage name Koh Mr Saxman, and Hubster Co Ltd are the forces behind this year’s festival. Due to obvious reasons, we are unlikely to see much participation from overseas musicians. However, foreign musicians and expat residents in Hua Hin and other parts of Thailand are more than welcome to join the festival, which will feature a roster of well-known artists. Thai and foreign musicians of all ages will be performing different styles of contemporary jazz music. Although the primary venue will be at the Centara Grand Hua Hin beachfront, other popular venues are also being considered. The months-long delay was in a way a blessing in disguise, as the new dates, 4-5 December, fall in the Thai winter season, when the weather
is pleasantly cool. Admission is free for everyone and the line-up is starstudded. So, make sure your schedule is clear and bring your friends and family to enjoy what looks set to be spectacular event! FESTIVAL LINE-UP • Duek Dum Baan Boy Band featuring Maleewan Jemina (Pop Jazz) • Burin Boonvisut (Disco Jazz), Pom Autobahn & Koh Mr Saxman (Jazz) • Soul After Six & Fusion Gate (Fusion & Soul) • Sinjaroen Brothers (Fusion) • Tewan Jazz Group (Fusion & World Music) • Asia 7 & Rasmee Isan Soul (Fusion/Isan Soul & World Music) • The Swing Kings (Swing/Big Band Jazz) • Siam Cubano (Latin/Cuban), Keith Nolan (Blues/Funk) SCHEDULE Main Stage: 5 pm – midnight Thailand’s top jazz artists and foreign jazz musicians Fusion Stage: 4 pm – midnight Thai jazz artists performing various styles of contemporary jazz Hua Hin Stage: 3 pm – midnight Street music by Hua Hin jazz artists and young musicians
HOUSE COMMITTEE VISITS ENERGY SELF-RELIANT VILLAGE
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delegation led by Ms Kalaya Rungwichitchai, chairperson of the Committee on Communications, Telecommunications and Digital Economy and Society of the House of Representatives, recently visited Ban Wang Won Village in Nong Ta Taem Sub-district, Pranburi, a model community whose solar energy self-reliance scheme won the United Nations Public Service Award (UNPSA) for developing effective and responsible public institutions in 2019. Prachuap Khiri Khan Deputy Governor Chatri Chanveerachai was on hand to give the delegation a tour of the village. A community of over 1,000 households located on surplus government (Ratchaphatsadu) land, Ban Wang Won previously had no access to electricity. Restrictive regulations prevented the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) from providing electricity in the area, which is under the care of Fort Thanarat Infantry Centre, causing hardships for residents and leading to years of unfruitful litigation. Eventually, the Sub-District Administration Organisation of Nong Ta Taem resolved to find an efficient and low-cost way to generate electricity using a renewable energy source. Households were fitted with 120-Watt solar panels and given maintenance guidelines to ensure maximum electricity efficiency. By allowing residents to generate electricity for home and farm use at a minimal cost, the project has brought great satisfaction and convenience to the community. The Committee plans to promote solar technology adoption in other areas of the country.
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Local News
THAILAND RIVIERA F PROJECT MOVING AHEAD
ollowing mobile cabinet meetings in Chumphon and Ranong some years ago, plans were made for the Thailand Riviera Project to upgrade coastal attractions further south from Cha-am and Hua Hin as an extension to these already popular destinations. Officially named the Royal Coast Project, Thailand Riviera covers the area on the western coast along the Tanao Si Range, Phetchakasem Road and the southern railway. This stretch of coastline between Phetchaburi in the north and Ranong in the south is deemed to have the potential to become an international resort similar to the French Riviera. At its heart, Thailand Riviera is a sustainable tourism development scheme focused on road and railway travel. Transportation development is a vital component in its implementation, with plans being drawn to improve, expand and connect existing roads. The “sustainable” part of the scheme, however, requires multi-agency coordination and cooperation. Fresh water resources along the coastline will have to be well-regulated to prevent conflicts from arising between the farm and tourism sectors when demands from the latter grow. New roads will need to be built to ease traffic and allow access to spectacular views along the coastline. Major train stations will also have to be renovated to make them icons of their districts. As the region’s most popular tourism hub, Hua Hin will have an important role to play in
the development of Thailand Riviera, and the majority of local people and enterprises have welcomed the government’s decision to push ahead with the scheme. However, some tourism industry leaders have proposed that Hua Hin and Cha-am should be connected to ensure adequate tourism capacity and quality, and that royal projects in Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan should be part of the attractions. The government should also aim to attract more Scandinavians, who now make up the majority of holiday makers in Hua Hin and Cha-am, they suggest. As part of a marketing push for Thailand Riviera, the government plans to host an international festival with Hua Hin as the host city. Organising the festival requires close collaboration between Hua Hin Municipality and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau. Recently, city officials met with representatives from Cha-am Tourism Business Association and event organisers to discuss ways to ensure the event’s success. Thailand Riviera is a multi-billion-baht project that has the potential to elevate tourism in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan and the upper south to another level. Hua Hin is poised to be a major beneficiary, especially if efforts are made to showcase its distinctive features to the full. The project was first initiated more than 10 years ago but was approved again during a mobile cabinet meeting in Phetchaburi in 2018.
HUA HIN TODAY
TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS JOIN FORCES TO ATTRACT MORE VISITORS H
ua Hin continues to attract domestic tourists during holidays and long weekends but foreign tourists have yet to come due to nationwide restrictions imposed by the government to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus, Ms Wasana Srikanjana, president of the Hua Hin/Cha-am Tourism Business Association, disclosed during a monthly meeting on Hua Hin tourism situation attended by the director of the TAT’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Office and tour operators. To attract more domestic tourists to the region, Hua Hin Municipality, Hua Hin Tourism Business Association, the TAT and local businesses have joined forces to organise tourism activities and travel promotions such as cheap flights to Chiang Mai and Udon Thani. Several major events held in recent weeks attracted a reasonably good response from visitors. The association also has plans for community tourism promotion until the end of the year. Air Asia’s Hua Hin Station Manager Mr Sawit Wongsawan reported that Air Asia flight schedules had increased to 70 percent following the rollout of “A Relationship Province,” a local-tourism version of the “Thai Theaw Thai” (Thais Tour Thailand) campaign, in Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Nong Khai and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. Direct flights from Malaysia to Hua Hin are expected to resume in January, he said. Air Asia now provides air cargo services at Hua Hin Airport to support business and individual customers who want to deliver dry goods, fresh seafood and other commercial products to the north, northeast, and south of Thailand.
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Community
Ms Proudputh Liptapanlop (left) and TAT Deputy Governor Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool
The team behind the Hua Hin Smile campaign.
PROUD GROUP ROLLS OUT CAMPAIGN TO BOOST TOURISM Property developer The Proud Group has rolled out a multi-million-baht campaign to promote local tourism.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Mr Suwat Liptapanlop, the campaign’s advisory chairman.
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he Hua Hin Smile campaign, taking place from October to December 2020 with cooperation from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, and Proud’s private-sector partners, features a variety of activities designed to help revive the tourism sector and the economy as a whole. Former Deputy Prime Minister Mr Suwat Liptapanlop, who serves as the campaign’s advisory chairman, said: “Hua Hin Smile invites the Thai people to travel domestically, in line with the government’s policy to boost the economy. It also elevates Hua Hin as a role model for tourist destinations post-Covid-19.” Already one of the most popular destinations post-lockdown thanks to its convenient location to Bangkok, unique and spectacular sceneries, and accommodations with hygiene and safety standards approved by the Ministry of Public Health, Hua Hin looks set to draw even more interest thanks to the campaign.
Highlights of “Hua Hin Smile” include Pepsi Presents Glamping Festival 2020, a lifestyle event featuring concerts by big-name artists, talk shows, and movies provided by Major Cineplex Group during 23-24 October at True Arena Hua Hin. The “Hua Hin Smile” photo contest offers more than 600 prizes worth over 1.5 million baht. Interested participants can register via Line: OA @CPFTTHAILAND during 16 October-15 January. Then there’s the Hua Hin Open 2020 tennis tournament, scheduled to take place 1 November-27 December and featuring a 1.5-million-baht cash prize. The campaign wraps up with a New Year’s countdown party on the beach at InterContinental Hotel Hua Hin Resort on 31 December. Ms Proudputh Liptapanlop, Executive Director of The Proud Group, said: “[The activities in this campaign] cater to every lifestyle while adhering strictly to the highest
hygiene and safety standards. In addition to these, we have also invested over 15 million baht to bring even more delight and express our appreciation for tourists.” To attract visitors to the city, the group provided 300 free tickets to Pepsi Presents Glamping Festival 2020 and is now offering free accommodation at the Holiday Inn Resort Vana Nava Hua Hin for up to 30 participants in the “Hua Hin, the City of Joy” campaign on Instagram and Facebook; tickets to Vana Nava Water Jungle for those taking part in activities on Vana Nava’s Facebook fanpage (up to 200 tickets/month); up to 1,800 vouchers for daily fitness and up to 900 vouchers for free games of tennis at True Arena Hua Hin to those presenting a receipt of hotel accommodation in Hua Hin.
A snapshot from a campaign event.
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Offbeat News
YOUR COUNTRY’S NATIONAL DAY
3rd NOVEMBER: HOUSEWIFE DAY This unofficial holiday recognises the importance of stay-at-home wives and mothers who take care of the children and the home, help to instill family values and good character. Housewife is an old term originating in the days when one income could support the family in a manner of comfort. While those days are long gone, the decision to be a housewife or stay-at-home mom is still preferred by many, even if their job – as domestic engineers, budget managers and organisers of family life – doesn’t always get the thank-you it deserves When 3 November rolls around, let’s celebrate and thank all of the ladies who choose to stay home and tend to the house and family!
19th NOVEMBER: INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY International Men’s Day is an annual international event marked in around 80 countries, from Singapore to South Africa. Conceived and inaugurated in the early 1990s in the Caribbean, it celebrates the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities by highlighting positive role models. It also seeks to raise awareness about mental health issues in men, as well as other health and societal issues, by encouraging men to open up and communicate with others.
11th NOVEMBER: POLAND Polish national day, called National Independence Day, commemorates the anniversary of the restoration of Poland’s sovereignty from the German, Austro-Hungarian and Russian empires in 1918. Following the partitions in the late 18th century, Poland ceased to exist for 123 years until the end of World War I, when the destruction of the neighbouring powers allowed the country to reemerge as the Second Polish Republic.
18th NOVEMBER: OMAN
7th NOVEMBER: BOOK LOVERS DAY Book Lovers Day celebrates bibliophiles everywhere. It also recognises the rich history of books and their survival in a technologically advanced world. Book reading is a great hobby. It is educational, informative, and relaxing. It helps children learn language and develop comprehension skills. Reading also helps people of all ages build a better vocabulary. To celebrate the day, just grab an interesting book, find a quiet, cosy place, and crack open the cover!
21st NOVEMBER: WORLD HELLO DAY Created during the 1973 conflict between Egypt and Israel, World Hello Day recognises the role communication plays in promoting peace. Anyone can take part in World Hello Day simply by verbally greeting at least 10 people. People around the world also use the occasion of World Hello Day as an opportunity to express their concern for world peace by sending a message to leaders, encouraging them to use communication rather than force to settle conflicts.
The Sultanate of Oman is a country on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. National Day, the main official public holiday, commemorates the country’s independence from Portuguese control in 1650. For most people in Oman, this date is the start of a two-day break, since 19 November is also a public holiday in observance of the birthday anniversary of Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, who reigned from 1970 until his death in January 2020.
26th NOVEMBER: MONGOLIA
Republic Day, 26 November, is an important public holiday in Mongolia, the 18th-largest country and the most sparsely populated sovereign state in the world. The day commemorates the creation of the country’s first constitution in 1924, which led to the establishment of the Mongolian People’s Republic, a unitary sovereign socialist state which existed between 1924 and 1992. On becoming a republic, the capital of Mongolia, Niĭslel Khüree, was renamed Ulaanbaatar (Ulan Bator), meaning “Red Hero”.
14th NOVEMBER: WORLD DIABETES DAY Diabetes is a growing problem in children and adults. It has two forms: Juvenile (Type 1) diabetes and Adult Onset (Type 2) diabetes. The latter form usually can be avoided or delayed with diet and exercise. World Diabetes Day (WDD) was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) and the World Health Organisation. It became an official United Nations Day in 2006. It is marked annually on 14 November, the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin along with Charles Best in 1922. The WDD campaign draws attention to issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world.
26th NOVEMBER: THANKSGIVING DAY Thanksgiving in the USA falls on the fourth Thursday in November. It commemorates the first successful harvest of the early Pilgrim settlers from England. On this important family holiday, households gather together to relax, watch a football game, and enjoy a feast featuring their favourite Thanksgiving traditions. These usually involve roast turkey and stuffing, ham, corn, potatoes, yam, cranberry sauce and a pumpkin or sweet potato pie, foods that celebrate the feast of the Pilgrims.
30th NOVEMBER: SCOTLAND
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. National Day is celebrated annually on 30 November in honour of St Andrew, one of Christ’s 12 apostles and the country’s patron saint. St Andrew’s Day is a celebration of Scottish culture. It includes dancing, music, food and drink and the flying of various flags, especially the official Scottish flag and the flag of the union.
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Health Measuring ingredients in traditional Asian apothecary
WHY ROOT-CAUSE MEDICINE IS SO IMPORTANT: TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE PERSPECTIVE Understanding the root cause of diseases is the first step to healing, and this is where traditional Chinese medicine can be beneficial.
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nstead of asking, “What drug matches up with my symptom?”, have you ever asked yourself “Why do I have this problem in the first place?” Let me give you a clearer idea: If there was a fire in your home and the fire alarm was screaming, would you deal with the disturbing noise by just removing the batteries from the alarm? Of course not! You would find the cause of the fire and put it out. But what we are doing with our health – ignoring the body’s alarm bells – is just like taking the batteries out. Rootcause medicine is about finding the fire. Symptoms are the body’s alarm telling us that something is not right, and it is our job, as physicians, to try and figure this out and help the body heal. Helping patients understand the root cause of their disease is the first step. Working as an acupuncturist, TCM as part of my treatment modality is based on these principles: 1. Looking at how well your organs are functioning. Your health is like a ‘tree’ with your symptoms being the ‘branches’. But what’s causing health problems is often in the ‘roots’. Chinese medicine treats both the symptoms (the branches) and the root cause (the roots) of health issues. If the root cause can be resolved, the symptoms will reduce or may go away entirely. 2. Diet has a big effect on your health. In TCM, we advise about foods that will help your organ health. 3. Like an engine, if your body runs too hot or too cold, it won’t run very well. We look at your temperatures and their effect on your digestion or hormone production. Modern medicine is fabulous for acute, life-threatening ailments, and there is no comparison for its use in these situations. However, for chronic, non-acute illnesses, root-cause medicine is the logical healing approach.
Health
HUA HIN TODAY
HOW MUCH PROTEIN SHOULD YOU EAT?
Common sources of protein
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ontinuing from our previous instalment, which discussed the impacts of protein excess and deficiency, we will look into how much protein intake is considered adequate. Adequate Intake (AI) of protein varies from one person to the next and depends on factors such as health condition, weight, age, gender and lifestyle. Nonetheless, various formulas have been created to calculate the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein, some based principally on age and some on weight. Today, we will talk about the weight-based formula. For adults, the daily RDA for protein is 0.8 g per kg of body weight. A person who weighs 45 kg, for example, should get 45 x 0.8 = 36 g of protein per day. Dividing that into three meals, we arrive at roughly 12 g of protein per meal. However, some studies suggest that RDA calculations should be on a per-meal basis, using 0.4 g per kg of body weight as the RDA amount. A person who weighs 45 kg should therefore get 45 x 0.4 = 18 g of protein per meal.
The rationale behind this formula is that following it would lead to more efficient nutrient absorption. The body would be able to function according to its capacity and nutrients would not go to waste. Deciding which formula to follow is up to you. But if you asked us, the daily calculation formula would be easier to follow. Elderly people may need more protein because the body’s digestive and absorptive functions deteriorate with age. Children also need more protein than adults. The daily protein RDA for the 7-14 age group is 1.1 g per kg of body weight, while that for toddlers is 1.05 g per kg of body weight Pregnant women are recommended to eat 1.3 g of protein per kg of body weight per day. People who exercise frequently will need about 1 g of protein per kg of body weight. Bodybuilders, weight lifters, and injured athletes need even more protein, but exactly how much is the right amount for each individual is a question that nutrition specialists are best equipped to answer. Let us give you rough estimates of how much protein you can get from different types of food: - 85 g of pork or beef will give you 22 g of protein - 85 g of duck or chicken meat: 31 g of protein - 85 g of fish: 17 g of protein - 1 egg: 6 g of protein - 1 glass of milk: 8 g of protein - 1 portion of Greek yoghurt: 18-20 g of protein (double the amount regular yoghurt provides) Now that you know how much protein you should get for your age and activity level, we hope you do you best to follow it, as this can help prevent health problems from arising.
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Hotel News
SAMUI’S CAPE FAHN HOTEL NAMED ONE OF WORLD’S BEST PRIVATE ISLAND RESORTS
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ape Fahn Hotel, Private Islands, Koh Samui, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, was named one of the world’s “Best Private Island Resorts Perfect for a Secluded Getaway” by luxury travel magazine Departure for its exceptional facilities and services as well as its breath-taking location on two small private islands in the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The hotel is offering a ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ promotion for a stay between now and 27 December 2020. Rates start from 26,000 baht net per villa per night for a Tropical Pool Villa (including breakfast for two). For reservations, go to the website: www.capefahnhotel.com/come-back-withpeace-of-mind/ or email: reservations@ capefahnhotel.com The property is a recipient of the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification issued by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.
SUNDAY BRUNCH BECKONS AT SHERATON HUA HIN
CENTARA GRAND HUA HIN NAMED “ASIA’S BEST FAMILY HOTEL”
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entara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin was named one the “Best Family Hotels” in Smart Travel Asia’s first-ever Best of the Decade Awards 2020. Winners were drawn from the online travel magazine’s reader polls from 2010-2019, as well as various rankings, reader comments, feedback from focus groups, and inputs from journalists. The award reflects guest satisfaction with the iconic resort, which is located in a prime town centre location ideal for exploring and shopping and offers a wide range of recreational facilities and services, including four swimming pools, two tennis courts, a kids’ club, putting greens and a snooker room.
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n the first Sunday of every month, brunch lovers know to head to Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa for a fantastic feast. From noon until 3 pm, The Deck and inAzia restaurants present “A Fabulous Sunday Brunch” featuring extravagant arrays of food and drinks. As a live trio band plays in the background, live stations serve up Japanese, Indian and Chinese specialities. Prime Australian grain-fed ribs, home-made risotto, lobster ravioli, and premium meats and seafood grilled to order further extend the mouth-watering possibilities. This is also the only brunch in town to offer both cheese and oyster corners. Delectable desserts, including a chocolate fountain, round out the experience. The price is 1,490 baht net (food only) per person. Children under 10 eat free when accompanied by two paying adults (maximum 2 children per family). Free-flow draught beer, wine, cocktails and bubbles are available for an additional 800 baht. Soft drinks and juices are also available. For reservations, call +66 (0)32 708 000 ext 1112 or email: Warisara. Thai-Udom@sheraton.com
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ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
October Lookback
BANYAN’S “WE LOVE HUA HIN” EVENT HARNESSES COOPERATION TO CREATE COMPLETE VISITOR EXPERIENCE
Pictured from left to right: Mr Thanatpon Sattayanumat, Finance Director of Banyan Group, Ms Soraya Homchuen, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, Dr Panlop Singhaseni, Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, General Jiradej Kotcharat, Honorary Advisor to Banyan Group and former Deputy Commander-in-Chief, Royal Thai Army, Mr Tjeert Kwant, Group CEO of Banyan Thailand Residences and Golf Club, and Mr Stacey Walton, General Manager of Banyan Thailand Golf Club.
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hen Banyan Thailand Residences and Golf Club held the “We Love Hua Hin” event on 20 October, over 300 Banyan Privilege members and partners joined in, mingling with key stakeholders and local dignitaries including Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Dr Panlop Singhaseni and Ms Soraya Homchuen, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, in the ballroom of the Holiday Inn. Later that evening, participants were invited to an after-party at Vana Nava Skybar. The “We Love Hua Hin” theme was an expression of the cooperation and combined synergies among local stakeholders and conveyed to the world all the benefits that Hua Hin has to offer. The event brought together tourism and hospitality providers in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan to create a complete visitor experience that incorporates luxurious hospitality, health and wellness, dining, leisure attractions and sporting activities. Mr Tjeert Kwant, Group CEO of Banyan Thailand Residences and Golf Club, said: “We all have our personal reasons to love Hua Hin and it is a pleasure to express them with our members, partners and other businesses – as well as, of course, the government and the TAT in the greater Hua Hin region. “This sense of mutual cooperation will help us to grow stronger and speed up our recovery. We look forward to showcasing the very best of Thai tourism and hospitality to new and returning visitors alike.” He also shared that Banyan Privilege members club started a few years ago with only a small group of members. Today, it has over 700 members. “For the future of the Banyan Privilege members club, we believe that it will only grow,” said Mr Kwant. “It’s not only a club where you can enjoy discounts. We will also start to organise events. Tonight, we made another step by promoting Hua Hin as a destination. And the only way of doing that is to cooperate together to attract people from Bangkok and then the rest of Thailand.”
Mr Sam Sheriff, Ms Tanapron, Mr Odorn Olsson, Mr Thanachai Theerapattanavong, Honorary Chairman and owner of Hua Hin Today newspaper, Ms Visa Chimdee Mr Tjeert Kwant, Group CEO of Banyan Thailand Residences and Golf Club Ms Lizzy with Be Well Medical Clinic Team
Banyan Privilege club members receive a card which can be utilised for privileges and benefits from Banyan Privilege Partners, such as discounts on food and beverages, health and fitness, hotels, and leisure activities like golf and tennis at True Arena. Eligible for a Banyan Privilege member card are residents of Banyan Residences, Banyan Golf Club members, and members of Be Well Medical Clinic
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20 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
LAND-LOCKED PROPERTY IN THAI LAW “Land-locked” refers to a property that has no direct access to a public street, so the only way on or off the property is to cross land owned by someone else.
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he land-locked owner has the legal right to a “way of necessity” across an adjacent property. This legal permission is called an “easement” and does not need to be registered with any government body to be valid. However, its establishment is bound by the following: Easement can run across only one of the adjacent properties. If necessary, the dominant (land-locked) owner may construct a road across the servient (burdened) property. Care must be taken to cause as little damage as possible to the servient property. The dominant owner must pay appropriate compensation to the servient owner. However, if a property once had direct access to a public street but became land-locked after being separated from the adjacent property, the owner is entitled to an easement through the same property without having to pay compensation. The concept of servitude also applies to cases other than land-locked properties. A landowner is entitled to servitude right of way if: • He or she has openly used a passage for 10 years or more with the intention to establish a right of way and without objections from anyone, or • He or she has made an agreement, with or without compensation being paid, with the owner of the servient land. In the latter case, the law requires that the servitude right of way be registered with the local government land office.
DOG OWNER LIABILITIES
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f you are a dog owner, be aware that if your dog causes injury to someone else, you can be held responsible and liable for civil and criminal penalties. If your dog bites someone or otherwise causes personal injury or property damage, you may face a prison term of up to one month or a 10,000 baht fine or both, plus you will be liable to pay compensation to the injured person. If your dog causes an accident by suddenly running across the road, you may be liable for the damage caused. The applicable laws are the following: Section 377 of the Criminal Code, Section 433 of the Civil and Commercial Code, Articles 111 and 148 of the Land Transport Act.
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Golf News
22 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
AMATEUR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP M
r Manu Thanpipitchai, Executive of Majestic Creek Golf and Resort, together with Mr Wichit Bunthuwong, President of Thai Golf Development Club, organised the Amateur Golf Championship, which took place 1-4 October 2020 at The Majestic Creek Golf Club and Resort. The competition was divided into 8 categories with 63 amateur golfers participating in the tournament. • Amateur Championship – age 13 years and above – 7,206 yards • Ladies Championship – age 13 years and above – 6,283 yards • Class C – boys aged 13 years and below – 6,283 yards • Class C – girls aged 13 years and below – 5,755 yards • Executive Men’s Championship – age 40 years and above – 6,283 yards • Executive Ladies Championship – age 30 years and above – 5,755 yards Pictured from left to right: Mr Chanjitti Kanoksaksakul, Mr Akeburut Vanitchanon, Mr Sitthipol Nakpranom, Mr Manu Thanpipitchai, Mr Supakit Silanakae, Mr Jonathan Mikanda and Mr Sittiporn Rojanasiri
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
DAY 1 In the Amateur Championship Competition, Sitthipol Nakpranom, a young star golfer from Hua Hin, scored a 67 (35-32), followed by Akeburut Vanitchanon and Jonathan Mikanda, with an equal score of 71 (36-35). Sorawit Apinyanan, Chanjitti Kanoksaksakul and Supakit Silanakae shared third place with the same score of 72 (37-35). Ladies Championship Competition: Mathusorn Rodneane took the lead at -2 score 70 (3337), followed by Panchalika Arphamongkol 74 (38-36), Anita Sae-Jung 75 (38-37) and Panasaya Somchit 76 (39-38). DAY 2 Sittipol Nakpranom continued his good form, scoring a 68 (34-34) bringing him to -9 on the first 2 days. Supakit Silanakae and Chanjitti Kanoksaksakul both played better than their first day with a total of 143 over the first two days. Akeburut Vanitchanon scored a 1 over par, total of 144, and dropped to 4th place. Uacaree Bunbangyang scored a total of 148, finishing in 5th place, while Jonathan Mikanda made 5 over par, totaling 148 and dropping to 6th place. Ladies Championship: Mathusorn Rodneane continued with her good form and maintained her lead with a score of 72, totaling 142 over the 2 days. Panasaya Somchit, also in good form, scored a -4 for the day with a total of 144, joining Panchalika Arphamongkol in second place, followed by Kornkanok Soongpankhao with a score of 151. DAY 3 Sitthipol Nakpranom once again had a good day with a 67, leaving the second-place player, Akeburut Vanitchanon, who shot a 66, 8 shots behind, followed by Chanjitti Kanoksaksakul who scored 70. Ladies Championship: Two players were in the lead, Panchalika Arphamongkol and Mathusorn Rodneane, with a three-day score of 212, DAY 4 Supakit Silanakae won the last day with a 66, placing him in overall 2nd place for the championship. Second place was shared by Sitthipol Nakpranom and Akeburut Vanitchanon with a score of 70. Ladies Championship: Mathusorn Rodneane contended with Panchalika Arphamongkol, both finishing on the same score of 282 leading to a play-off on Holes 18 and 10. Mathusorn won the competition and took the Ladies’ Championship Award. At the end of the championship, Mr Manu Thanpipitchai, Course Manager of Majestic Creek Golf and Resort, presented the prizes with the assistance of Sittiporn Rojanasiri from The Golf Association of Thailand Committee.
FINAL RESULTS OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Sitthipol Nakpranom • Winner: Sitthipol Nakpranom, with a score of 272 (67 68 67 70) • Equal 2nd Place: Supakit Silanakae, with a score of 283 (72 71 74 66) and Akeburut Vanitchanon, 283 (71 73 66 70) • 4th Place: Chanjitti Kanoksaksakul, with a score of 286 (72 71 70 73) • 5th Place: Jonathan Mikanda, with a score of 290 (71 77 71 71)
EXECUTIVE MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP: AGE 40+
1st Place: Kitti Sithipravet, 295 (76 74 73 72) 2nd Place: Polasanha Sirimas, 297 (76 72 71 78)
LALUA
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LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP: AGE 13+
• Winner: Mathusorn Rodneane, with a score of 282 (70 72 70 70) • 2nd Place: Panchalika Arphamongkol, with a score of 282 (74 70 68 70), losing on play-off • 3rd Place: Kornkanok Soongpankhao, with a score of 294 (77 74 72 71). • 4th Place: Similum Chair, with a score of 298 (77 77 74 70) Piyawan Khongjam
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EXECUTIVE LADIES CHAMPIONSHIP: AGE 30+
• 1st Place: Piyawan Khongjam, 308 (79 7 9 72 78) • 2nd Place: Fiona Zimmerman, 309 (74 76 77 82)
CLASS C BOYS: AGE 13 AND UNDER
032 900 700 Khao Khuang Village 181 Moo 9 Thup Tai, Hua Hin District Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110
www.laluahuahin.com
• 1st Place: Theerawut Boonsioor, 296 (76 73 73 74) • 2nd Place: Patcharapol Boonthum, 298 (76 74 77 71) Intharasol Jeamanukulkit
CLASS C GIRLS: AGE 13 AND UNDER
• 1st Place: Intharasol Jeamanukulkit, 292 (74 74 75 69) • 2nd Place: Nawaporn Kompuch, 308 (79 77 73 79) Chaipiphat Puthajaruenlap (left)
CLASS D BOYS
• 1st Place: Chaipiphat Puthajaruenlap, 309 (83 72 80 74)
CLASS D GIRLS
• 1st Place: Pranisa Sukhontaosod, 391 (100 96 99 96) All golfers who participated in the tournament were given trophies and a certificate from The Majestic Amateur Masters 2020 Championship. All class champions are entitled to join the A Class Open 2021, scheduled to take place at Majestic Creek during 23-26 October 2021, with waived registration fees.
LALUA P O O L B A R
Golf News
24 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
GOLF FITNESS FOR GOLF ENTHUSIASTS When you’re looking to improve your body for a specific activity – whether it’s running, swimming or playing golf – take advice from experts in their field. Learn swimming from swimming experts. Get a running coach to help improve your running. Likewise, you should be getting golf fitness training from professional golf instructors.
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By: Team Joey D Golf
olfers are more prone to lower back pain due to the nature of the golf swing. If you suffer from this problem, the following stretching exercises will help to reduce your pain and improve your golf game at the same time.
3. MIDSECTION LIFT While stretching is important, you also want to make sure the exercises are strengthening your muscles. Since you’re already on the floor, do a simple hip flexors exercise. Here’s the position: Now raise your midsection up like someone has a hook on your belt buckle pulling you up. Hold this position for a few seconds and drop back down, then repeat.
TEN-TWO ROLL This exercise will slowly build up your lower back flexibility. These are passive stretches and mobility moves. What you’ll need is an exercise ball (55 cm works best) and a soft mat to lay on. If the ball is too big or too small, you’ll struggle to get your legs to 90 degrees. Here’s how you should perform this stretch: Roll your legs back and forth, left to right. Great trunk rotation is critical for golfers and those suffering from lower back pain. Make sure you’re in control the entire time. You don’t want the ball to force your stretch further than you feel comfortable doing. How long should you perform? Listen to your body. If 10 reps is too much, do less. If 10 is too little, do a few more. The important thing is to not push your body too far. Be patient, follow the routines and results will follow soon.
2. ONE-LEG-OVER STRETCH This exercise is similar to the one above with one exception: You place one leg flat on the ground while rolling the ball over it with your other leg. This is what it should look like: Now, move the ball over your leg. Stretch to the furthest point you can while maintaining control. If you’re just starting, be careful. Don’t go too far and risk injury.
Return to starting position and repeat the ranges of motion. If you have shoulder pain, this exercise will help relieve some of that pain.
Again, listen to your body. Don’t go overboard on the number of repetitions you’re doing. Especially if it’s been a while since you’ve exercised, or if you’re still feeling back pain. These exercises are not designed to bulk up your muscles; their goal is to loosen up your lower back and help reduce any pain from muscle stiffness.
4. HAMSTRING STRETCH
Remember that our bodies are like machines and each part is designed to support other parts. When one part is broken, it affects the rest of the parts. Most people don’t know this, but a tight hamstring can cause lower back pain. Here’s the position: Spread your feet shoulder width apart and bend your knees slightly. Then, reach down to touch your toes. Take your time and control the movement. Now, you may be thinking to yourself: “Ugh, I don’t want to exercise, I just want to play golf and have fun. Stretching and exercising is boring!” Here’s the deal: If your body is in better shape, you’ll be able to play more golf more often and enjoy every minute of it. And best of all, you’ll feel better the next day. You don’t have to worry about being sore all over. Playing golf should be a fun activity. If you’re always in pain, either during or after playing, your body’s telling you something is wrong, it’s telling you “maybe it’s time to take up a training programme”.
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26 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
World Sports News
BASEBALL: RAYS BEAT DODGERS IN WORLD SERIES GAME 2 The Tampa Bay Rays won over the LA Dodgers to level the World Series at one game each. Brandon Lowe hit two home runs while pitcher Brandon Snell also impressed for the Rays against the top offence team from the regular season. Snell did not give up a hit until the fifth when the Dodgers’ Chris Taylor hit a home run. “I attacked the zone really well, mixed it up, and did a good job keeping them off balance,” said Snell. “They are a very selective team with a few guys who are aggressive, so I had a pretty good game plan for what I needed to do to have success against them. It went my way but I’ll see them again and I’ll have to be better.” Joey Wendle also made three home runs for the Rays, who are pursuing their first World Series title. The Dodgers beat the Rays 8-3 in their opening match last month, struck out 15 times and recorded just five hits against Snell and the Rays’ substitute pitchers.
CYCLING: GEOGHEGAN HART CLOSES IN ON GIRO D’ITALIA COMPETITION Britain’s Tao Geoghegan Hart dashed himself spectacularly into second place on stage 18 in the Giro d’Italia. The Ineos Grenadiers rider fought vigorously up the Stelvio Pass, the hardest climb in the race which tops out at 2,757 m, to scrape back more than two minutes in the overall standings. Geoghegan Hart crossed the line just behind Sunweb’s Jai Hindley. He trails the new leader, Sunweb’s Wilco Kelderman, by just 15 seconds. Joao Almeida lost the pink jersey when he was dropped on the Stelvio after first Sunweb and then Ineos Grenadiers pushed the pace up the switchbacks of the towering climb in the Alps. Stage 18 Result: 1. Jai Hindley (Aus/Sunweb) 6hrs 3mins 3secs 2. Tao Geoghegan Hart (GB/Ineos Grenadiers) 6hr 3min 3sec 3. Pello Bilbao (Spa/Bahrain-McLaren) +46 secs
SWIMMING: JAMAICAN RISES IN A WHITE-DOMINATED SPORT “I guess I’m known as the black, gay swimmer who wants to be the Usain Bolt of the pool,” says Michael Gunning, a Jamaican-born who moved to England when he was 5 years old and grew up in Kent. Gunning says it with his trademark wink and smile, but there’s a word he keeps coming back to in a more serious tone – “lucky”. A 26-year-old former British swimmer, Gunning now competes for Jamaica after his switch in 2016. He is one of very few black athletes in a traditionally white-dominated environment, and says he feels “lucky” to be competing at the highest level in the sport he adores. He says he also feels lucky to have experienced what he calls ‘only a little’ discrimination on his way to the top. “There was the time I had acid thrown at me in a science lesson at school,” he says. “To be honest, though, I don’t know whether it’s because I’m black or because of my sexuality.” It becomes evident that his experience of abuse goes much more than one incident. Even now he is often assumed to be a track athlete when he puts on a ‘Jamaica’ shirt.
RUGBY: JONES TO EQUAL MCCAW’S CAPS WORLD RECORD Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones is set to equal Richie McCaw’s world record of 148 caps after facing France in last month’s game. It will be his 139th international for Wales to go alongside nine Tests for the British and Irish Lions over three tours of South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Gloucester young winger Louis Rees-Zammit is set to win his first cap from the replacements bench. The match will be behind closed doors. Capt Jones was meant to have drawn level with McCaw’s record against Scotland at the Principality Stadium in March before the match was postponed following the coronavirus pandemic. “It is a fabulous achievement,” said Wales head coach Wayne Pivac. “He epitomises what a great rugby player is all about. He is a true professional on and off the field and a gentleman of the game.”
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Golf News
28 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
THE PROS GETTING IT WRONG DROPPING THE BALL: OLD HABITS DIE HARD The change to the way a golf ball is dropped when taking relief was one of the big amendments to the Rules of Golf introduced last year.
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owever, it’s often the case that this is required just after a poor stroke has been made, and in times of frustration, annoyance or anger, that’s when further mistakes are made and the changes to this Rule forgotten. During the first round of the LPGA’s first major of the year, the ANA Inspiration, an already tough hole got worse for one competitor who reverted to old habits. Korean golfer Sei Young Kim birdied her first hole at the ANA, the par-4 10th. But she ran off a string of bogeys at 12, 13, 15 and 16 before reaching the par-5 18th. That’s when things got ugly. Kim hit two balls in the water, which guards the green. That’s where most of her high score came from. But then a rules mistake added insult to injury. After one water ball, she dropped the ball from shoulder height. In 2018, that was the way to operate. In 2019, it’s a penalty. Golf’s new drop rule has come under fire from various pros. Bryson DeChambeau called it “absurd”. Jordan Spieth said the rule was “like a frustrating asterisk”. And Rickie Fowler was critical of the new rule after a post-shank drop cost him a shot at WGC-Mexico.
Sei Young Kim reverted to old habits after finding the water
The Ball Must Be Dropped ‘the Right Way’ (Rule14.b) The player must drop a ball in the right way, which means all three of these things: (1) Player Must Drop Ball. The ball must be dropped only by the player. Neither the player’s caddie nor anyone else may do so. (2) Ball Must Be Dropped Straight Down from Knee Height Without Touching Player or Equipment. The player must let go of the ball from a location at knee height so that the ball: - falls straight down, without the player throwing, spinning or rolling it or using any other motion that might affect where the ball will come to rest, and - does not touch any part of the player’s body or equipment before it hits the ground. “Knee height” means the height of the player’s knee when in a standing position. (3) Ball Must Be Dropped in Relief Area. The ball must be dropped in the relief area. The player may stand either inside or outside the relief area when dropping the ball. If the player does not drop again and instead makes a stroke at the ball, there is one penalty stroke. To her credit, Kim bounced back from the fiasco, firing a two-under 34 on the front nine (her second nine) to get back to six over for the day.
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30 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
ROONEY TESTS NEGATIVE OF COVID-19, STILL MISSES GAMES
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erby County forward Wayne Rooney tested negative of the virus but had to self-isolate for 10 days after a friend who tested positive visited him at home last month. He was “angry and disappointed” at missing the matches, but “delighted for myself and family” after knowing that his test for Covid-19 turned out to be negative. Rooney missed the fixtures against Huddersfield, Nottingham Forest and the visit of Cardiff City. Reports said that entrepreneur Josh Bardsley, who had been instructed by NHS Track and Trace to be tested for the virus, visited Rooney the day before their match against Watford. The Derby County forward was angry that his friend visited him despite the fact that he should have been self-isolating.
Football News
VINICIUS CAN PLAY WITH KANE: MOURINHO
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arlos Vinicius can play alongside Harry Kane in attack and not just be his side-man, Jose Mourinho said after the Brazilian impressed on his debut in Tottenham’s 3-0 win over LASK in the Europa League. The 25-year-old set up Lucas Moura for the opening goal in the 18th minute before his header for Son Heung-min resulted in Spurs’ third goal. Vinicius might also have scored the second goal, but Gareth Bale’s low pass from right field was intercepted by LASK left-back Andres Andrade. “He played well but can do better,” said the Portuguese boss. “Considering the circumstances and that it was his first match, I’m really happy. The only thing that was missing was one goal, but he’s much more than that. “He’s not selfish and is a good target man. He can play with Kane when his good timing arrives and won’t just be the guy to cover him. I am very happy,” added Mourinho.
CHELSEA GOALKEEPER ‘HAD DOUBTS’ DURING UNEMPLOYMENT
REPORTER APOLOGISES FOR ‘BLACK STREET VENDOR’ COMPARISON
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alvado Sostres, a Spanish sport news reporter has apologised after comparing Barcelona’s Ansu Fati to a ‘black street vendor’ during their Champions League 5-1 win over Ferencvaros. Fati, 17, scored a goal in the match and was highly praised by team-mate Antoine Griezmann. Griezmann said: “Ansu is an exceptional boy who deserves respect like any human being. No to racism and no to rudeness.” Fati is the first player under 18 to have scored two Champions League goals. Sostres’ match report in Spanish newspaper ABC compared Fati to a ‘black street vendor who you suddenly see running when the police arrive’. Sostres said in his published apology that he was just trying to ‘praise the admirable style of Ansu’s movements’ and was deeply sorry for any misunderstanding.
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helsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy ‘genuinely had doubts’ over continuing his football career, having had a spell in unemployment only six years ago. Senegal international Mendy, 28, joined the Blues in September from Ligue 1 side Rennes for around £20m. But he was considering his future back in 2014 when without a club for a year after leaving lower-league Cherbourg. “I did genuinely have my doubts about whether I would carry on,” says Mendy. “It was incredibly difficult and also my partner was expecting our first baby, and so the unemployment support wasn’t going to be enough for us. We needed something else, and so I did start looking for other work. “But then I had the opportunity to go to Marseille and I was given a trial there. Fortunately for me it worked, and when it did it was like a complete relief for me,” he said. “Because one year to go without football is an incredibly long time. I had many, many doubts during that time. But it was thanks to my family, who helped so much in those moments to keep me strong.”
ENGLAND AMONG TOP 10 EUROPEAN SEEDS FOR WORLD CUP QUALIFYING DRAW
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he English team is confident to be among the top 10 European seeds in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying draw. A total of 55 European nations will be competing to qualify, with five groups consisting of six countries and another five groups of five countries. Europe has 13 places for the tournament in 2022, which will be held in Qatar between 21 November and 18 December. Qualifying in Africa, Asia and South America is already in progress. The draw for the European qualifying groups will be held in Zurich, FIFA’s headquarters, on 7 December. The seedings will be released in late November based on the world rankings.
IBRAHIMOVIC SCORES TWICE BUT MILAN STILL ENDS IN DRAW
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latan Ibrahimovic scored twice but was unable to prevent Milan dropping points for the first time this season as they drew 3-3 with Roma. The 39-year-old scored first before Edin Dzeko equalised with a header moments after. Alexis Saelemaekers restored Milan’s lead but Roma equalised again through a penalty kick by Jordan Veretout. Ibrahimovic finally made a 3-2 conversion from the spot but Marash Kumbulla equalised again minutes later. The Swedish striker, who recovered from coronavirus earlier last month, has scored six goals in five games of this season. The match gained Milan a two-point lead over Napoli at the top of Serie A.
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Golf News
32 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
TRYING FOR A LOWER HANDICAP: START ON THE GREENS With each new season, there’s hope among golfers for a better swing, for learning how to hit a power fade, but basically a consistently better score for a lower handicap. If you’ve set your sights for this golf season on scoring low, it’s possible you’ve already hit (or are approaching hitting) a brick wall in your goal.
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ure, there are tweaks you can make to all corners of your golf game. You can work on grip, short game, ball-striking or club setup. But even if you improve your game from tee to green, that might not be enough to support your quest in reaching a lower handicap. According to a graph made by golf analytics whizzes Lou Stagner and Scott Fawcett, the key to truly “going low” is to laser in on your putting. Stagner and Fawcett analysed make rates and three-putts by average final score from 2004 to 2020, and their results were staggering.
BABY SWIMMING THAILAND is the only swimming center for babies and toddlers (4 months - 12 years) certified by ISO 9001:2015 for curriculum design, development and service quality standard. We are also the 1st baby & toddler aquatic center operated in partnership with a leading private hospital, aiming at continuously improving the quality of our swim program. Our Hua Hin branch is located in Soi Hua Hin 114 inside WE by Sirin (opposite to Vana Nava water park). The pool is indoor temperature controlled salt-water system designed to meet international standards for babies and toddlers. Courses are carefully developed to ensure their suitability for different age groups.
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First, those who are gunning to break 70 will realise a common thread: three-putts were down, while 5-10 foot makes were up. Golfers who shot 70 or better averaged less than half a three-putt per round and made more than half their putts from eight feet and at least 40 percent of their putts from 10 feet. Among those hoping to go really low, the key is more than bombing drives and drilling closer approaches. According to Stagner and Fawcett’s graph, it’s to start making putts from farther away. Whereas those who shot 76 or worse made a little more than a quarter (28.4 percent) of their 10-foot chances, those who shot 62 or better made nearly 70 percent (!!!) of their 10-footers. Those who shot 63-65 made 60.6 percent.
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AT
At Black Mountain Golf Club, a very special and exciting new dining experience has arrived. Hua Hin town’s renowned Prime Steakhouse restaurant has come to Black Mountain, serving probably the best steaks in Thailand. Everything from Wagyu rib eye, fresh fish, pasta, salad, desserts & European specialty dishes are exquisitly prepared by Anders and his master team. A warm Thai welcome to Prime Steakhouse awaits you at Black Mountain.
Restaurant open from 6am to 9pm
To book a table: Email: restaurant@bmghuahin.com Phone: 032 618 620 Mobile: 089 028 3547
Free shuttle from Hua Hin for groups Tel: 089 028 3547
34 ISSUE 220 • NOVEMBER 2020
Around Town
HOLIDAY FEASTS BY DEAN & DELUCA
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ean & DeLuca together with Mahasamutr Hua Hin welcome the festivity of this season with an array of traditional roasts and seasonal treats. The Holiday Whole Turkey (5,995 baht) features a whole full set of imported roasted turkey from the US size 13 pounds, traditional turkey stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce and four side dishes: Truffle Mashed Potato, Broccoli & Cheddar Casserole, Roasted Mixed Root Vegetables, and Maple Bacon Roasted Brussels Sprouts. The set serves up to 10 people or more. Additionally, the Holiday Whole Ham (4,950 baht) is also available, consisting of imported BBQ glazed ham, gravy and Asian BBQ sauce. Complete the holiday meal with decadent Christmas desserts. The selection includes creamy Pumpkin Pie (795 baht) and fudgy Chocolate Pecan Pie (1,200 baht). If you pre-order before 20 November, the pick-up date is Thanksgiving Day, 26 November 2020. If you pre-order before 20 December, the pick-up date is 24, 25 and 30 December 2020. To place your order or for more information, call 032-907-900, 098-384-8799, 090-530-2014 or email rsvp@mahasamutr.com
LADIES VS GENTS GOLF COMPETITION O
n 14 October, the Ladies Golf Hua Hin competed with the Hua Hin Golf Society team at the Majestic Creek Country Club. The aim of the competition, which has been carrying on for the past four years, is to create a good bonding relationship between men and women golfers. About 70 players participated in the rather exciting but friendly competition. Although the rain started drizzling towards the end of the competition, the event was a success (as usual), full of fun and teasing amongst the golfers. The overall results of the competition were surprising, with the beauties winning over the beasts. Ladies: 551 points. Gents: 547 points. Mr Manu Thanpipitchai, director of Majestic Creek Country Club, had the honour of awarding trophies and prizes to the winners.
MAJESTIC CREEK GOLF CLUB & RESORT 164 Moo 4,Tab Tai, Hua Hin 77110, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 3251 0672 Mobile: +66 (0) 81 942 3619 Email: bookings@majesticcreekcc.com www.majesticcreekcc.com
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City Brief
BUDGET ADMINISTRATION ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND DECENTRALISATION AWARD FOR HUA HIN SEMINAR H
ua Hin Municipality recently won national honour for outstanding achievements in environmental health. An award ceremony was held on 17 September at Amari Buriram United Hotel, Buriram Province. A delegation from Hua Hin, led by Mayor Nopporn Wuttikul, received a plaque of honour from the Assistant to the Minister of Public Health Dr Samrueng Yaengkratoek. They also attended a workshop held on the same day by the 10th Regional Health Promotion Centre (Ubon Ratchathani). The event had the objective to encourage and strengthen cooperation among associated networks as well as monitor environmental health progress at local levels. Hua Hin Municipality’s successful collaboration with relevant sectors to implement Hygiene Distancing Clean (HDC) standard practices to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus made it the top environmental health achiever among organisations in the 5th Public Health Region. (Thailand is divided into 12 Public Health Regions.)
SANITATION PROBLEMS FIND AN ANSWER
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ua Hin Municipality held a meeting following complaints about pollution and sanitation problems in the area near the start of the Hua Hin-Pa La-U bus line. Those attending the meeting included Mr Theeraphan Jadpol, director of the Public Health and Environment Division, the head of the municipal cleaning works, and representatives from local sanitation company Muang Saad Co Ltd. Residents had brought forward issues of air and noise pollution caused by the buses, garbage odour and pigeons’ droppings around the garbage disposal site behind the parking lot, and potholes in the road, among others. As a preliminary measure, the mayor instructed the Public Works Division to immediately make the necessary improvements. As for the sanitation issues, the garbage disposal site behind the start of the bus line has been cancelled and Muang Saad put in charge of garbage collection in the area, starting 5 October. Residents can now bring garbage to the collection point in front of Chat Chai Market; collection times are 11 am-12 noon and 3 pm-5 pm daily.
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seminar entitled “Problems and Obstacles in Implementing Integrated Budget Administration and Decentralisation as National Driving Mechanisms” hosted by Mr Chaiya Promma, Chairman of the Committee on Budgeting Study and Budget Administration Follow Up of the House of Representatives, took place at the Miracle Grand Convention Hotel, Bangkok on 30 September. Mr Chuan Leekpai, President of the National Assembly, presided over the event, which had the objective to promote better understanding of budget administration and the decentralisation process amongst government personnel at the local level as well as encourage exchanges of knowledge and ideas leading to effective problem-solving. The seminar was attended by 600 officials from 76 provinces, including governors, heads of provincial offices, mayors, and representatives of the National Municipal League of Thailand and the Provincial Administrative Organisation of Thailand. Representing the city of Hua Hin were Municipal Clerk Mr Jeerawat Prammanee, Director of Technical Services and Planning Ms Kanokwak Sriarun and members of her team. Deputy Minister of Interior Mr Nipon Boonyamanee gave a speech emphasising the importance of aligning local development planning with long-term national strategies and ensuring that development plans are flexible and can respond to changing circumstances.
RAILWAY-HIGHWAY INTERSECTION UPGRADE IN THE WORKS
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ua Hin Municipal Clerk Jeerawat Prammanee represented the city at a province-level meeting to discuss the issue of railway-highway intersection safety upgrade. Held at Prachuap Khiri Khan Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Centre, the meeting was chaired by Deputy Governor Chatri Chanveerachai. Prachuap Khiri Khan Highway District (Hua Hin) needs to use land under the State Railway of Thailand’s jurisdiction to construct a bridge over the railway intersection at Hat Sai Yai. The planned construction is part of the Ministry of Transport’s scheme to reduce accidents at railway-highway intersections and ensure public safety and convenience. Thailand has a high incidence of train collisions with road vehicles at railway junctions. Last month, nearly 20 people were killed and dozens injured after a freight train collided with a bus full of passengers at a railway junction in Chachoengsao province.
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Travel
UDON THANI IS CALLING Whether you need to get away for a few days to recharge or just want to see more of Thailand, it’s time to pack you bag and head to beautiful Udon Thani!
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here is no better time to explore Thailand than right now, especially with direct flights from Hua Hin to Udon Thani now available. Air Asia flies to and from Udon Thani Fridays and Sundays, making it a great way to spend a weekend, or leave Sunday and back Friday for a bit longer in the northeast. The flight takes just over an hour. Having become somewhat of an important regional transportation hub, Udon Thani connects Thailand’s northeast with the rest of the Kingdom as well as Laos. There is a lot to offer travellers, with everything from amazing temples to a vibrant food and café scene to the ruins of one of the world’s oldest Bronze Age civilisations at Baan Chiang. This bustling city of 130,000 people is big enough to offer all modern amenities, like Central Plaza shopping complex and metred taxis, yet small enough that you’ll be able to navigate easily around town and take in the historic buildings and structures with glimpses of a Thailand from yesteryear. If you are in Udon over a weekend or a public holiday, the best way to familiarise yourself with the city is to take the Udon Thani City Tour Tram. This covered, open-sided tram leaves twice a day from Central Plaza, with the tour taking 90 minutes showing you all the sights Udon has to offer. Food options shine in Udon Thani with an abundance of local restaurants as well as a large and comfortable covered food court called UD Town, which has pretty much every food option you can possibly imagine in a very open and clean environment. For those wanting a more upmarket dining experience, Mak Khang is a must-try for their very traditional and exceptional Thai flavours and their use of high-end ingredients like Wagyu beef. This is Bangkok-style dining in Udon Thani, though, thankfully, without the Bangkok price tag. Another great place to dine is the lakeside café at Brown House Hotel by Blu Monkey. Serving up great Isaan food the traditional way, this restaurant takes pride in its flavours and presentation. Udon Thani is also a great base to explore the surrounding districts, either by hiring a car or a driver to take you to the many places of interest. A recommended day trip would be a drive east to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Baan Chiang, or drive south to Khon Kaen, just over 100 km from Udon. An hour’s drive north of Udon is Nong Khai, situated on the banks of the mighty Mekong River. Air Asia flies from Hua Hin to Udon Thani at 11.30 am Fridays and Sundays.
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Green Fee
% 50 (฿1,950)
Tel: 032 618 666 • Email: proshop@bmghuahin.com • www.blackmountainhuahin.com