The Phuket News 15 March 2019

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FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

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KEEPING CLEAR

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NEWS

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Man arrested for molesting ladyboy patient

LIFE

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Getting historic vessel ‘Vega’ shipshape again Local residents and tourists at the beach take photos while an aircraft roars overhead as it lands. Photo: Chris Husted

ICONIC BEACH SITE FOR ‘UNDER AIRCRAFT’ SELFIES MAY BE CLEARED FOR SAFETY REGULATIONS Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

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irports of Thailand (AoT) management at Phuket International Airport are aiming to have the section of beach at the end of the runway cleared of all tourists for safety reasons, despite the area becoming one of the most soughtafter places for an iconic selfie taken while on holiday in Phuket.

The news broke at a meeting with provincial officials last week, when Vijit Keawsaitiam, Executive Vice President and Deputy General Manager of Phuket International Airport (Operations and Maintenance Group),

announced that the “safety zone” around the airport will be expanded.

“The new safety zone near the runway is being developed and will soon take effect,” he said.

“Under the initial guidelines discussed, we are setting up a safety zone which will be categorised as a strictly prohibited area that does not allow people and tourists to take pictures,” Mr Vijit explained.

“Aside from this area, local people and tourists can still come to take pictures as usual,” he added.

“The airport wants to boost tourism revenues, but at the same time, it must make sure there will not be any problem with aviation regulations.

Tourism and safety must co-exist,” Mr Vijit said.

Of note, Mr Vijit pointed out that the meeting was held to determine aviation safety in order to meet the requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which provides monitoring and evaluation of operations according to various regulatory frameworks.

However, Mr Vijit did not clarify exactly which areas are to be closed off, and no one at the airport this week has been willing to confirm any details of the plan to The Phuket News until after yet another meeting, which was due to be held on Thursday (Mar 14).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Winai Sae-io, headman of Otop Village at Moo 4 Mai Khao, told The Phuket News that it was explained at the meeting last week that the goal was to have 150 metres of either side of the runway kept clear.

Mr Winai also pointed out that local residents had objected to the plan as many of them rely on tourists visiting the beach for their livelihoods.

Mr Winai represents local residents who work under a community project set up by the Mai Khao Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor).

The project provides jobs for local residents who transport tourists from a local council car park further north along the beach road to the iconic...

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New suspect in Chinese tourist tuk-tuk attack

A POLICE INVESTIGAtion has revealed that the tuk-tuk driver accused of attacking a Chinese tourist on Feb 27 was not the one who carried out the assault.

The investigation by Patong Police discovered that the assailant was, in fact, another man who became aware of the dispute in Cherng Talay.

Patong Police Chief Col Anothai Jindamanee told The Phuket News, “The Chinese female tourist who was assaulted did not come to Patong Police Station to file a complaint.

She returned to China later the same morning.”

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday Feb 27, involved four female Chinese tourists, one of whom was physically assaulted by a man when an argument broke out after the tourists were driven from Patong to Cherng Talay.

Col Anothai told The

Kamala Beach to get B58mn wastewater plant > page 4

Preying on the sick

Man charged for molesting ladyboy patient Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

The four women ended up getting a taxi back to their rented villa in Cherng Talay.

Photo: Sonpol Watsang Phuket News, “Following the investigation, we know that an argument broke out between the tourists and the driver of their tuk-tuk over the fare.”

“But that tuk-tuk driver did not assault the tourists.

Another man who witnessed the dispute became angry and got involved, assaulting one of the tourists.

Col Anothai confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as police gather enough evidence to bring appropriate charges to the assailant.

Waranya Prompinpiras

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

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huket City Police have charged a man from Roi Et with sexual assault after he molested a ladyboy recovering at Vachira Phuket Hospital last Tuesday (Mar 5).

Phuket City Police Chief Col Sompong Thiparpakul confirmed last Friday (Mar 8) that the man charged for the incident was Phichit Pimhom, 57, from Roi Et. The charge followed a formal complaint filed with police

by Vachira Phuket Hospital Director Dr Chalermpong Sukontapol.

“The charge of sexual assault applies not only to women, but to men and other genders as well,” Col Sompong said.

“If such a crime happens, we will enforce this law immediately,” he added.

Police explain the charge to Phichit Pimhom, 57. Inset: The assault was recorded. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Dr Chalermpong explained that the alarm was raised by the patient assaulted, publicly identified only as “Pleng”, who posted a video of the incident on the Facebook account “Pa Pleng Smile”.

“Pleng is transgender,” said the hospital director.

“She was admitted at Phuket Vachira Hopital on Mar

4 for breathing difficulties and fatigue. We found that Pleng had a respiratory infection.

She had previously suffered the same condition and had come to hospital for medical treatment before,” he added.

The assault occurred at 10pm on Tuesday (Mar 5).

“Mr Phichit was watching over a patient who was recov-

ering in the bed beside Pleng at the request of that patient’s relatives,” he said.

The video posted online showed Phichit approaching Pleng and arranging the sheet covering her in a caring manner. However, it soon became apparent that Phichit had one hand under the sheet and was fondling Pleng’s breasts.

Pleng shouted for him to stop, but Phichit ignored her.

“After nurses became aware of the incident, they told Mr Phichit to stop and removed him from the room to question him. He admitted to his actions.

Then Mr Phichit apologised to the people who paid him to look after the other patient,” Dr Chalermpong said.

“We filed a complaint for Phuket City Police to charge him, and he has been banned from entering the recovery wings at the hospital,” he said.

Airport beach safety zone revised Continued from page 1 ...beach area. Local residents also operate food stalls at the site.

“I don’t agree with the plan… At the meeting I asked that they inspect the area before making a decision about the area to be closed off,” Mr Winai said.

“This will impact local tourism in our area. If the beach is closed, we will have serious problems because many tourists simply will not come. I want AoT to look at us and support locals in making a living here too,” he said.

“I am waiting for an official appointment for us to inspect the area together to see our local tourism activities,” Mr Winai added.

The safety zone marked out around the airport in 2016 kept people away from immediate areas near the runway, but did not encroach onto the beach.

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Election, bomb attacks spur boost in security The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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total of 245 Phuket police, law enforcement officers and volunteers assembled at Phuket City Police Station in Phuket Town on Monday (Mar 11) to receive their orders to suppress crime and keep the peace as the country goes to the polls for the national election next Sunday (Mar 24), for which early voting will be held this Sunday (Mar 17).

The assembly, held at 6pm, marked the launch of the campaign, titled “Protect the People Phuket Provincial Police”.

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Wisan Panmanee presided over the assembly, accompanied by Phuket Vice Governor Thanyawat Charnpinit.

Joining the assembly were officers from the Phuket Provincial Police, Tourist Police, Immigration Police, Phuket Airport Immigration Police, Marine Police, Phuket Forensic Division, Highway Police, Phuket Special Branch, military personnel, administrative officers and public volunteers.

The campaign was being held “in accordance with the policy of the Royal Thai Police and Provincial Police Region 8, who are ready to cooperate to ensure the safety of life and property of people and tourists, including preventing and suppressing all forms of crime during

CCTV footage shows the suspect fleeing on a motorbike after the shooting in Patong. Image: Patong Police

Patong taxi driver shot dead in broad daylight

A soldier joins a patrol on Bangla Rd, Patong. Photo: Royal Thai Army Region 4 the election of members of the House of Representatives, which will be held on March 24,” Gen Wisan said.

The security boost follows officers already ramping up patrols and security checks in the fallout from a spate of pipe bomb attacks in the Southern Thailand provinces of Satun and Phattalung last Sunday (Mar 10).

Col Santi Sakuntanark, the commanding officer of the Royal Thai Army contingent stationed in Phuket, has publicly assured that Phuket is believed to not be a target following the bomb attacks.

Regardless, police and military personnel last Sunday evening stepped up

security searches and patrols at Phuket International Airport, the Phuket Check Point at the bridge onto the island and in key tourist areas across Phuket.

“Security personnel in the area, including in Phuket, have not found anything unusual, and so we ask people to feel confident in their safety and to go about their and daily lives as usual,” Col Santi told The Phuket News on Monday.

However, Col Santi stressed, “If anyone sees a person doing something that looks suspicious, or finds an object that looks suspicious, please immediately call the Army Region 4 headquarters’ 24-hour hotline 1341.”

Election brings two alcohol bans PROV I NC I A L POLICE have cautioned business operators that the national election on Mar 24 and the early voting to be held this Sunday (Mar 17) will see two bans on the sale of alcohol over this weekend and next weekend.

“There will be a 24-hour ban on the sale of alcohol from 6pm on Saturday, Mar 16 until 6pm on Sunday, Mar 17, for the early voting, and there will be another 24-hour ban from 6pm on Mar 23 until 6pm on Mar 24 for the national election,” Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Sermpan

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The election will see alcohol bans this and next weekend.

Sirikong told The Phuket News.

“The ban on the sale of alcohol is mandatory by law.

Police will enforce it the same as we do for the five Buddhist religious days throughout the

year on which the sale of alcohol is also banned by law,” he added.

“I believe that foreign tourists will understand that this is law must be followed.

When people travel to a foreign country, we must comply with the laws of that country,” Col Sermpan said.

Under the Organic Act on the Election Commission, B.E. 2018, any person who sells or distributes liquor during the hours of the alcohol ban faces up to six months in jail or a fine of up to B10,000, or both.

Waranya Prompinpiras

PATONG POLICE A R E hunting for a taxi driver who is believed to have shot dead another taxi driver in broad daylight at a taxi rank in Patong last Thursday (Mar 7).

Police were notified of the shooting on Phra Metta Rd in Patong at about 11am.

Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee explained, “A man was shot dead at a taxi rank on Phra Metta Rd, about 250 metres north of Patong Hospital.

“We believe there were two men involved in the incident, both of whom were working at the same taxi rank,” he explained. “Witnesses said the men started to argue, which escalated into a physical fight.”

The suspect, 48-year-old Pharadon Poochayan, is said to

have driven away in a pickup truck after losing the fight and returned with a gun.

“Upon returning, the suspect is believed to have shot the victim, Songpon Suwansaard, 45, in the head, firing three or four shots at him before fleeing on a motorbike.

Bullet casings were found at the scene,” Col Anotai noted.

Arriving at the scene, Kusoldharm Foundation rescue workers found the victim on the floor bleeding heavily.

They immediately began performing CPR and managed to restore a pulse. However, he was later pronounced dead at Patong Hospital.

“Police across the island are searching for the suspect,” Col Anotai confirmed.

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PHUKET NEWS

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PHUKET SEVEN DAY WEATHER FORECAST

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Kamala targets foul canal Construction begins on B58mn wastewater plant Waranya Prompinpiras reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

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onstruction of Kamala’s first wastewatertreatment plant began this week, with the B58 million facility scheduled for completion by February next year. The news comes after another week of black wastewater from Pak Bang Canal at the southern end of Kamala fouling the water at the popular tourist beach.

As an immediate response to the black wastewater, officials from Kamala Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor) had the rancid sludge dredged from the bottom of the canal and had EM (effective microorganism) balls dumped into the murky water.

Officials inspect the Pak Bang Canal. Photo: Kamala OrBorTor

“We will keep doing this to make the water quality better, so the water smells better and becomes more clear,” said Nopporn Karuna, Kamala OrBorTor Deputy Chief.

The use of EM balls will cease today (Mar 15), when

an ozone-generator watertreatment machine comes online, Mr Nopporn told The Phuket News.

“We looked at the ozonetreatment system installed in Cherng Talay (reported last week) and we believe

that after we start treating the water in the canal with ozone, the water in the canal will be clean in two months,” Mr Nopporn said.

Southern Thai Consulting, located in Moo 5 Srisoonthorn, has been hired to install and operate the ozone water-treatment system under a budget of B495,000, Mr Nopporn added.

Installation was to begin on Wednesday (Mar 13), with the machine expected to come online today (Mar 15).

“The contract is to operate the ozone machine for just two months. After that we will see how the results go, and if it is working well we will look to extend the contract further,” Mr Nopporn explained.

“The water quality will be checked by laboratory tests,” he added.

However, the big leap forward for Kamala in having wastewater treated before being released into the sea at the popular beach is the construction of a B58mn plant at Chalermprakiat Park.

The project is funded by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr Nopporn explained.

“We hired DBT Engineering Co Ltd and Mcon International Corp Ltd for the construction. The contract started on Feb 4, 2019 and the terms stipulate for construction to be completed by Feb 4, 2020,” he said.

The piling began last week under a separate contract that started on Feb 27 and expires on Mar 23, he added.

“When the construction is finished, we will hire another company to operate the plant.

Now we are still looking for a suitable company,” Mr Nopporn said.

“The system will treat all the wastewater that flows through Pak Bang Canal. The machine will suck water from the canal and treat it before it is released at the beach,” he explained.

However, Mr Nopporn admitted, “The system will be able to treat up to 1,000 cubic meters of water per day, which will be enough for the dry season, but when the heavy rains come the extra water flowing through the canal may mean that not all the wastewater will be treated before being released.”

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OPINION

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CHRIS HUSTED

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084 307 7408 execeditor@classactmedia.co.th Fifteen years working in news and covering local issues and events in Phuket, with 18-month hiatus spent working for the Brunei Times on Borneo. From Queensland, Australia; 10 years living in the UK before moving to Phuket in 2000. Degree in business management. Spare time spent sailing or with family.

PORIA MERMAND

News & Sport Editor

editor3@classactmedia.co.th From risk analyst to music producer to news editor, Poria has worked in various contrasting fields following his graduation from university. Growing up in central London before moving to Phuket in 2016, he has but one ambition, freedom.

AMY BRYANT

Lifestyle Editor

editor1@classactmedia.co.th Former freelance writer and editor for a music news and reviews website in the UK. Now turning her hobby into a career with The Phuket News and broadening her scope from music to, well, everything. Likes the weird and wonderful.

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EDITORIAL

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

Cashing in on the ‘Smart City’ 1

It’s been a long time coming, and on Monday (Mar 11) we heard it again: the government is gearing up to achieve its target of 30 smart cities in 24 provinces, including Phuket.

That’s no joke, after more than 10 years of banter and talk of big budgets to bring our island to the forefront of technology, so the pundits claim.

At the Bangkok press announcement, a smart city was defined as an urban area that uses different types of electronic data collection sensors to supply information which is used to manage assets and resources efficiently.

Apparently this includes data collected from citizens, devices and assets that is processed and analysed to monitor and manage traffic and transportation systems, power plants, water supply networks, waste management, law enforcement, information

systems, schools, libraries, hospitals and other services.

In all honesty, Phuket residents would be overwhelmed with joy if anything like Smart City use of technology was applied to even just one of those aspects.

In June last year, ACM Prajin said that B140 billion was to be spent on the “initial” Smart City rollout, yet much money has already splashed out through official budgets. In 2016, Information and Communication Technology Minister Uttama Savanayana announced that B430 million from the 2016 fiscal budget had been earmarked to develop Phuket as the first smart city in Thailand.

For that price we got a four-story building at Saphan Hin, entrepreneurship training courses for wannabe “tech startups”, a promise of courses to train youngsters in some

form of technology, and 200 CCTV cameras – probably the most effective technology officialdom has used here.

CCTV has helped catch many criminals, but there have been so many CCTV projects announced with funds drawn from so many different budgets it has been impossible to tell who paid for which cameras, and at what cost to the taxpayer.

It is even impossible to say exactly how many cameras – belonging to who – are in operation across the island right now. That’s how good our Smart City programme has been so far.

But there has been one thing the Smart City initiative has excelled at: getting big number budgets thrown around as if the money fell from the sky. To that, to ask exactly who has benefited from the Smart City initiative so far we’ll let you decide.

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A third king cobra caught at Kathu construction camp ‘No securit y fears in Phuket,’ says island’s Army chief Phuket Law: Misunderstandings regarding the new foreign worker law Patong Police chief creates LINE group with locals to monitor tourist road users Russian arrested in Phuket on Interpol notice Motorbike hangs 10m above ground after crash Resorts start rolling in own water tankers as Phuket dry spell continues Immigration officers dismissed for visa skulduggery Manhunt underway as Patong taxi driver shot dead in broad daylight Body of man who jumped from northern bridge recovered south of Phuket

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HAVE YOUR SAY Keep on truckin'

Re: Passengers allowed in back of pickups for Songkran Last year, riding in the back was banned. Zero enforcement, plenty of people doing it. This year, no ban so the police save face by not having to enforce it.

Mark Joseph Jochim You must be kidding!

Trucks are transporting construction workers and gardener teams this way on a daily basis in Phuket! And surprise, surprise, police couldn’t care less.

Reza Khalili 400+ families will have their lives destroyed forever in a few weeks' time. Same as last year, the year before that...

Geoffrey Morris

Cash for trash

Re: Patong trash fire spurs warning of B10k fine for dumping, B1k fine for littering Heck, if they made an effort putting CCTV at known spots they could make a fortune catching all the low-life dumpers in action all over the island. Seems like a national

pastime. Place is one big rubbish tip.

Pauly44 When is Patong going to get serious? There are probably hundreds of buildings spewing untreated black water out, despite proper municipal facilities being available. And no efforts by the city to get other buildings connected. This is the true state of five decades of failed growth management in Patong. A few dozen cameras will not change things.

Sean M Ulvihill Warned but rarely enforced.

Michael Flynn

Text the police

motorbikes" Get drunk but be quiet drink driving away after it.

Cathal O Connell

is a recipe for disaster. vegasbaby

The saga goes on

Re: A third king cobra caught at Kathu construction camp To be fair it's worth saying that both locations back directly onto the snakes' natural habitat. That is to say denselypacked jungle-covered hills.

It's not like the serpents are taking over.

CaptainJack69

Re: Emergency water supplies deployed in Koh Kaew No doubt about a drought, but these constant contrary statements are becoming ridiculous.

Pascale Re: Resorts start rolling in own water tankers as Phuket dry spell continues I guess it's not serious enough for the golf courses to stop wasting water or for other people to stop spraying the roads to keep the dust down in the heat of the day.

Galong

Re: Patong Police chief creates LINE group with locals to monitor tourist road user Is there a LINE group to report noisy (illegal muffler) fast-riding Thais or would that overload the LINE servers? zib

Is it just too logical to solve the persistent problem by constructing additional new reservoirs and digging current ponds deeper? thaibigfoot@gmail.com

"We found a group of foreigners drinking together at a bar around Malin Plaza so we told them not to make noise when riding away on their

The continued growth without infrastructure expansion will eventually choke Phuket. Can't get the water in and can't get the sewage out

Snakes & ladders

Awesome to see they are still here, that we haven’t yet killed every single thing that moves.

Kevin Stephen Gibson Not surprised at all. It was probably their home before the construction site came there.

Zeena French

Trailblazing

Re: Walk on the wild side: Mapping and hiking the hill trails of Phuket Great story. Would love to see a guide book written with the maps and trail descriptions.

Andrew Campbell

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FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

THAILAND NEWS

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Songkran celebrants allowed in pickup beds THAILAND Government officials display the royal emblem. Photo: Patipat Janthong

Bangkok Post

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olice will ease restrictions on people riding in the rear space or trays of pickup trucks during the Songkran festival, according to national deputy police chief Srivara Ransibrahmanakul.

He said passengers will be allowed to sit in the beds of pickup trucks as long as they are deemed safe during the Songkran festival on April 13-16 for the convenience of motorists.

Curbs on revellers sitting on truck beds proved unpopular during last year’s festival.

He was speaking after chairing a meeting with provincial police offices and the Metropolitan Police Bureau via a video conference to lay down policies to ensure road safety during the Songkran festival.

He said police have been instructed to raise public awareness about drink-driving and warn motorists whose blood contains 50 milligrams or more

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King’s coronation emblem unveiled BANGKOK

Police say they will allow passengers to ride in pickup beds during next month’s holiday.

Photo: The Phuket News / file of alcohol per 100 millilitres that they will be subject to a court order for them to wear electronic monitoring bracelets.

He said he also told police to strictly enforce traffic laws and not to be lenient on drinkdriving offenders who cause

road accidents. According to Pol Gen Srivara, police reports should describe how their reckless behaviour contributed to the accident.

He added that road checkpoints will also be increased this year to encourage motor-

ists to respect the laws, including speed limits.

Songkran along with New Year (December-January) are the most dangerous periods on Thailand’s roads racking up the most road fatalities in the year.

THE GOVERNMENT HAS unveiled the official emblem, which will be used for His Majesty the King’s coronation in May. The emblem (pictured) was presented at a news conference led by Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam on Monday (Mar 11).

Mr Wissanu said the King had made his own adjustments to the emblem’s design.

“State and public organisations are invited to set up an altar with the King’s photo and worship materials and display the emblem on buildings to show respect to the monarch,” the deputy premier said.

The emblem can be printed

on various items, including shirts and caps, to show respect to the King.

However, the public and organisations cannot use the royal emblem on breakable items such as glass, plates, spoons, bracelets, pendants or containers, Mr Wissanu said.

Any state or public organisations that want to use the emblem can write to a committee in charge of screening emblem users to seek permission, he said.

The royal emblem has the royal cypher of HM The King at the centre which is surrounded by a gold frame, the colour (yellow) represents Monday, the King’s birthday. It rests on a background of dark blue, the colour of kingship.

Bangkok Post

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THAILAND NEWS

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FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Chiang Mai worst for pollution

Health warnings as the city is rated the world’s most polluted CHIANG MAI Apinya Wipatayotin

F

orest fires have sent air quality in nine provinces to a level considered harmful to people’s health, as cities in the North like Chiang Mai registered air quality that was among the world’s worst.

The air quality index (AQI) in Chiang Mai as of 4am Tuesday (Mar 12) stood at 230, compared with 170 in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka and 164 in Kabul, Afghanistan, according to Air Visual.

At midnight Tuesday, in slightly cooler night-time temperatures, Chiang Mai still was listed as the world’s worst, with air quality in the high-danger zone for all residents.

The AQI measures a broad spectrum of air pollutants including PM2.5, PM10 and carbon dioxide.

Information from the Pollution Control Department (PCD) confirmed the haze in the North had reached worrying levels.

PM2.5 refers to atmos-

On Wednesday afternoon (Mar 13) Chiang Mai remained the world's most polluted city. Photo: Bangkok Post pheric particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres, which is about 3% the diameter of a human hair. It can lodge in the lungs and enter blood vessels, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

According to PCD-supplied information taken from 17 air-quality-monitoring

stations in nine provinces as of 9am Tuesday, the level of PM2.5 ranged from 70-124 microgrammes per cubic metre (µg/m³), exceeding the safety standard of 50 µg/m³ or lower.

Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district had the worst recorded level (163 µg/m³), followed

by Phrae, Lampang, Nan and

Chiang Mai. The pollution has become such a pressing concern that Prime Minister Prayut Chano-cha is scheduled to visit Chiang Rai on Saturday (Mar 16), eight days before the national election.

“Prime Minister Prayut will take a field trip to Chiang Rai with the purpose of

following up on measures to deal with the haze in the North,” Pralong Damrongthai, director-general of the PCD, told the media Tuesday.

Dr Rangsrit Kanjanavanit, a Chiang Mai resident who serves as a lecturer and cardiologist at the Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University, said the smoggy skies

show how the government’s campaign to eradicate forest fires and open burning has yet to prove a success.

Dr Rangsrit said the government should come up with more sustainable and comprehensive measures, instead of just arresting farmers who start fires, or firing water to try to control dust levels.

“It should find a way to dissuade farmers from burning [waste] by giving them incentives,” he said. Some of the haze has been attributed to neighbouring countries like Laos and Myanmar.

As such, critics say Thailand should work more with other governments to tackle the widespread practice of open burning.

Haze has been a seasonal problem in the North for over a decade. It usually appears from January to April but peaks in March as the extremely dry conditions increase the magnitude of forest fires.

This is compounded by farmers burning waste to clear land for the next harvest season.

Crash leaves motorbike 10m above ground SURIN A CRASH INJURED SEVeral people and left a motorcycle hanging from power lines about 10 metres above the ground in Kap Choeng district late last Sunday (Mar 10).

The impact sent the Honda motorcycle flying through the air. It ended up suspended from high-voltage power lines above a local road in the northeastern province after the accident.

Eyewitnesses said the bike was being carried in the bed

Workers removed the motorbike from power lines 10m above ground on Monday (Mar 11). Photo: CB650F Thailand Facebook page of a silver Isuzu pickup truck.

The truck swerved to avoid a motorcyclist riding against the traffic, they said. The

pickup overturned and came to rest upside down, its cab crushed, while the motorcycle on its bed soared upwards and was caught on the power cables.

Five people in the pickup truck, registered in Surin, were injured and were sent to Kabchoeng Hospital. Four of them were identified as Chatchai Wongcharoen, Peerapat Wongcharoen, Surasak Soodtong and Detnarong Phumlee.

Police were investigating the accident.

Bangkok Post

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Island woes hurting investment Poor infrastructure needs urgent attention, says new PCC President INVESTMENT Waranya Prompinpiras

T

hanusak Phungdet, the newly installed President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, has placed poor infrastructure development among the top issues concerning the island’s tourism industry.

So detrimental is the island’s current state of infrastructure support that it may even be affecting decisions by business people in whether or not to invest in Phuket, Mr Thanusak said.

Traffic jams, especially those affecting tourists travelling to and from Phuket International Airport is of vital concern, as is lack of water reserves to ensure water supply to hotels across the island and even poor electricity supply, rated the top of Mr Thanusak’s list.

Mr Thanusak, installed as PCC President on Feb 22, told The Phuket News this week that he invited people to inform him of problems their businesses were facing, and hopefully to provide some solutions to the problems.

“I want the private sector to trust me as the new Phuket Chamber president. I am glad to hear from them. I can help them because the

@thephuketnews

New PCC President Thanusak Phungdet is calling for urgent action on roads, water and power supply. Photo: Phuket Chamber of Commerce Chamber is a powerful oganisation that can bring the relevant government department to answer questions from the private sector,” he said.

Mr Thanusak explained that he had already identified a slew of issues to be tackled.

“I will call for urgent action to be taken on several problems, such as not enough water, poor electricity supply, the number of road accidents and traffic jams. We need to work

on solving these problems,” he said.

Traffic is of particular concern, Mr Thanusak said.

“For tourism, Phuket must be ready to support the number of tourists, especially in terms of transportation. The government must make the new road between the airport and the bypass road to reduce traffic jams and make travelling between the airport and Phuket Town quicker.” he said.

The road, a 12-lane expressway from Koh Kaew to Phuket airport costing B5.5 billion, has been in motion for years, with the Highways Department already confirming the route in 2016.

However, no progress has been made since then. Last year, Norraphat Plodthong, Phuket Governor at the time, called for national government support to expedite the project at a meeting of the Commission for the Management of Land Traffic held in Nai Yang.

Present at the meeting were Commission Chairman Lt Gen Jareasakanee Anupaph, Vice Chairman of the 1st Committee Wanchai Sarattultut, Vice Chairman of the 2nd Committee Admiral Yutthana Fakpholgnarn, and Vice Governors from Phang Nga, Krabi and Ranong.

Among the others present were officials from the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, local administrations and relevant government agencies in Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga and Ranong.

And still the project remains stalled.

The idea for the new expressway was put forward by Surachai Chaiwat, who served as PCC President from 2015 to 2018, Mr Thanusak

explained.

“This road can have many lanes and will reduce traffic problems, in the same way that the motorway from Bangkok to Chonburi has,” he said.

Mr Thanusak noted that PCC has direct links with the Thai Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, whose president attends a meeting with the prime minister every month.

“And the PCC President also attends meetings with the Phuket governor and the provincial board of the Joint Public and Private Sector Consultative Committee (JPPSCC) every month. I will raise these issues with both the governor and the JPPSCC,” he added.

Mr Thanusak said that the PCC addressing the issues was important for Phuket in attracting new investors.

“The PCC is a one-stop service centre for business people looking to invest in Phuket. The Phuket Chamber must be strong to make the private sector have confidence and trust us,” he said.

“They must feel that the Phuket Chamber of Commerce can help them and coordinate with government departments in solving these problems, and this includes foreign investors,” he stressed.

10 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Record berth for the industry

Number of superyachts mooring in Phuket continues to grow MARINE The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he growing number of Superyachts visiting Phuket has set a new record, with 36 superyachts making berth at Yacht Haven Marina just last month.

The news comes as Phuket’s marine industry continues to expand with facilities and services for the high-end market.

“Asian governments have been hard at work improving the facilities and easing the regulations to attract more superyachts to cruise in the region and spend time in their marinas. The value of this category of marine tourism is high and brings with it many benefits for the economy generally, the tourist industry, and the people employed in the wide range of support industries,” noted a release issued by Galileo Maritime Academy, based in Phuket.

“In Thailand this has resulted in a welcome increase in visiting superyachts, reaching an all-time peak in Phuket

The number of superyachts berthed at Yacht Haven Marina last month set a new record. Photo: Galileo Marine Academy where the largest superyacht marina in the region is located.

Last month (Feb) Yacht Haven Marina hosted 36 superyachts which, if put in line bow to stern, would cover a distance of 1,582 meters, almost a mile long,” the release added.

Anthony Gould, CEO of Galileo Maritime Academy,

noted, “This all-time record for any marina in Asia is the result of many factors including government actions, but also the sheer beauty and abundance of pristine anchorages and remote islands of Phang Nga Bay, the Mergui Archipelago, the islands of the Andaman Sea as well as those around

Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam.

“Thailand has become the central hub for much of this industry and has a welldeveloped infrastructure at the heart of the finest cruising areas, including the only Asia-based maritime academy for superyacht crew which is

accredited by the UK government Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and approved to issue MCA certification to ship’s crew,” he added.

Most of the 36 superyachts based at Yacht Haven Marina have had their crews trained and certified at Galileo Maritime Academy and many new

recruits to the industry have started their careers through Galileo, Mr Gould explained.

“This is a strategic benefit to the industry and enables these quality driven private yachts to refresh and recruit the best graduates in the industry and whose qualifications are recognised in all 174 member countries of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

“The many thousands of luxury superyachts that have operated in the crowded and congested marinas and anchorages of the Florida coast, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas are now beginning to explore the remote and quiet beauty of the countless islands and low cost marinas of Thailand and the Asia-Pacific region,” Mr Gould said.

“Galileo Maritime Academy is right there in the centre providing the same high standards of crew training and recruitment that those owners and captains have previously thought only to exist in European and US waters,’ he added.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

A staycation for all the family

14

Dutch courage at The Battle of Patong

16

MISSION OF MERCY The humanitarian vessel that needs our help

Vega before and after the disaster last month.

Amy Bryant editor1@classactmedia.co.th

I

t’s 1892 in a shipyard in Ølve, Norway, and brothers Ole and Johann Nerhus are busy building Vega, the magnificent cargo ship-cum-naval man o’ war vessel you see above.

It’s 1992 in the fjords of Scandinavia and Vega is dropping off her last cargo after 100 years of hauling engines, generators, cement, building stone and pig iron in the North Sea and the Arctic.

It’s 2004 in tsunami-hit Sumatra, Indonesia and Vega’s new owners, Captain Shane Granger and his partner Meggi Macoun, are using her to deliver food and medical supplies to those in need.

It’s 2019 in a dock in Satun, Southern Thailand and, after another successful trip delivering supplies to remote communities in Southeast Asia, as she has been doing since 2004, Vega is being hauled out for annual dry docking. Then disaster strikes. She falls from her cradle, port side, and is severely damaged.

When righted, she falls starboard side and is completely flooded. Not only do Shane and Meggi lose part of their yearly supply of aid, but their personal possessions too.

“The hull and rigging were not so seriously injured, but the interior was completely flooded. We managed to save Scourge (the cat) who found the only unflooded space to hide in. Other than that, we lost just about everything we owned. Clothes, computers, @thephuketnews

cameras, our beloved book collection, artwork. We are completely devastated,” says Shane.

However, the couple remain positive in the face of what must be a boat owner’s worst nightmare.

“Thankfully, she is a strong old bird. We are determined to get ourselves and Vega back in shape. There are so many people who depend on us and we do not want to let them down,” he adds.

To see such determination and grit from Shane and Meggi hardly comes as a surprise; it takes a certain spirit to leave loved ones and a six-figure salary for a life of humanitarian work in uncharted waters.

When the couple discovered Vega in the Canary Islands, she was in a state of total abandonment, dried out in the harsh tropical sun.

“The fellow who had her before may have been a great butcher or baker but he was not a sailor. The interiors looked like a cross between an Afghan goat shed and an African chicken coop!” says Shane.

The initial refit took four years and saw no corners cut; Meggi designed the entire interior layout, creating a blend between the 1800s and the present day that was both faithful to the past but functional too. Only recycled materials and local Indonesian labour were used during the refurbishment, including teak and other tropical wood from old houses and broken boats in Bali.

Keeping the 22-metre-long, 127-year-old Vega shipshape and seaworthy to sail areas infamous for rip tides, tidal bores, standing waves, whirl pools and strong currents – often where other boats refuse to

venture – is no mean feat either. They are constant caretakers of this well-preserved slice of maritime history, one of the few boats in the world to be officially classified as a ‘historical vessel.’

Every year, Vega embarks on her 6,000-nauticalmile ‘mission of mercy’, spending five months gathering 15-20 tonnes of donated educational and medical supplies from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, and five and a half months delivering them to East Timor and remote islands in eastern Indonesia.

Shane and Meggi assist 34 communities and support 23 health posts, 122 traditional midwives and 42 local community-built schools across 18 islands.

“Often it’s the small things that make a big difference to the standard of living for these isolated island communities. A small bag of fishing hooks, fishing line, knives, nails, hammers, cloth and sewing materials, shovels, metal buckets, cooking pots, vegetable seeds,” explains Shane.

“Many places we go the children have never seen a real football. They have always played with a bundle of leaves tied together with coconut string. A real football quickly becomes a community treasure.”

A fully qualified Indonesian doctor, Dr Ruth Indira, also travels with the charitable cargo and crew.

She provides medical services, leads dental hygiene classes in schools and holds workshops and training seminars for traditional midwives in these remote communities.

Continued on page 12

12 COMMUNITY

Children on the Banda Islands.

Her efforts have contributed to what must surely be the Vega team’s greatest achievement: reducing maternal and natal mortality within these communities by over 50% in three years, living proof that none of us are too small to make a difference.

The importance and impact of this work cannot be underestimated. For many communities, Vega is a lifeline to the rest of the world.

On arrival to these remote islands, the boat is surrounded by beaming locals ready to greet the team before anchor has had a chance to meet sand.

However, unlike the past 15 years, many of these communities won’t see hope on the horizon in 2019.

“We are working on plans to ship some of this year’s humanitarian deliveries by container and Meggi will fly to East Timor for distribution. But we can’t

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Replanking the heavily damaged port side.

think of any way for now to get supplies to the smaller islands. Unfortunately, we will be unable to assist the smaller, more remote islands or deliver medical supplies this year,” explains Shane.

Shane and Meggi’s humanitarian work relies solely on the assistance of volunteer crew members and private and corporate supporters. During more challenging periods, they can find themselves moored for days at a time, waiting for the next fuel top-up or food shopping money, so last month’s disaster has been a huge blow. However, they march on, hoping that by doing the right thing something will turn up. And, so far, it has.

A surveyor evaluation estimates that it will take three months of long, hard work and US$150,000 (B4,754,960) to restore Vega to her former glory; Shane and Meggi must find US$32,000

(B1,014,391) of this to make up the shortfall and replace equipment and supplies that are not covered.

“Much depends on how many holidays fall in between. Delays awaiting parts and materials will also play an important part,” Shane says.

“Most of the hull work and some interior work is being done by the yard but for such things as replacing electronics, radios, navigational equipment and repairing others, such as our Spectra watermaker, a large part will fall on us. Insurance only pays on a prorated basis.”

Donations can be made through the ‘Sail Vega’ website and all funds are gratefully received. Shane and Meggi also seek those with expertise and contacts in the Phuket marine industry; as almost all of the boat’s systems need replacing, accessing equipment at cost

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

A community-built school in East Timor. price would be a great help.

Once Vega is shipshape once more, which the couple are confident she will be in time and with the right hands on deck, they welcome Phuket international schools to engage with ‘Kits-4-Kids’, a programme in which students prepare a backpack stuffed with school supplies (from a provided list), an additional toy or stuffed animal, a photograph and a note about themselves and where they live.

Let’s rally round this good cause and get Vega out on the waves once more.

PayPal donations can be made at www. sailvega.com/vega/support_the_vega. html Shane and Meggi can be contacted at vega@sailvega.com Follow Vega’s journey on their Facebook page ‘Historical Vessel Vega’

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TRAVEL 13

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Phuket’s Tourist Triad

Y

Daren Jenner

ou don’t really know a place until you have lived there.

That’s what they say, anyway.

For visitors or those new to Phuket, a lack of local knowledge can sometimes lead to serious problems. Start with the predominantly transient tourist population, add a dash of thrillseeking and a potentially disastrous recipe is born.

A description of three island visitors begins the story: 1) Robert from the UK rents a motorbike in Phuket. After all, it’s a cheap and easy way to get around the island. But he never rode one at home.

2) Annie from China takes a speedboat snorkelling tour to Coral Island.

With such beautiful waters, who can blame her? But she’s never snorkelled before.

3) Yolov from Russia swims at Surin Beach in front of the red flags. He is not an experienced beachgoer. And he’s never swum in the ocean before.

What do these different scenarios have in common?

THE TRIAD Phuket’s tourist triad consists of three different activities: land transport; marine transport; and ocean activities.

Participating in these three activities accounts for the vast majority of all accidental injury deaths in Phuket.

Why? THE TOURIST FOG Visitors arrive in Phuket from all corners of the globe, from airport to airport, and are often jet-lagged, unfamiliar with local customs and ill-informed about the risks they face compared to their home country.

The misperception that risky activities they see others doing here are now safe for them because they are on holiday can be intoxicating. Even the mundane in their home country takes on heightened risk here in Phuket.

Many foreign countries operate transportation safely, both on land and over water. With some exceptions, traffic flows more smoothly overseas and road safety is taken for granted. Beach safety is also taken much more seriously on many other holiday islands.

@thephuketnews

Many tourists arriving through Phuket International are unprepared for the lack of solid infrastructure and coordinated public safety systems that exist in their home countries. Even adventure-savvy travellers can be caught unaware. Unfortunately, many of these people will be accidentally injured or even killed every year while engaging in the triad.

The local soup Locals set the example for tourists on the roads and in the water. Visitors brand new to Phuket quickly pick up the habits of local drivers and can drive just as recklessly, even though such risky behaviour back home would land them in jail.

The same goes for marine safety.

The inexperienced or intoxicated tourist crashing a jet-ski after riding recklessly is a common occurrence here. Where did they get the idea to try the dangerous driving that led to the crash? From the local jet-ski touts showing off in the surf line.

At Phuket’s beaches, local surfers are often in the water during the rough conditions of monsoon season.

Red flags do not deter experienced surfers; in fact, they can attract them.

Unfortunately, many tourists watching see how “easy it is” to handle Phuket’s monsoon surf and then try it themselves. Fortunately, most of these surfers also act as de facto lifeguards, rescuing many tourists who get in over their heads. Bystanders on the shore who are not familiar with that particular stretch of coast are ill-advised to attempt such rescues. Doing so could mean one more life taken by the triad.

Another bitter root in the local soup is the ongoing lack of adequate lifeguard and marine rescue services available on and surrounding the island. Phuket is hemmed in by water, and every year the number of tourists transported by vessel to nearby destinations increases. However, the water-based public safety net remains outdated and ineffective and has failed to keep pace with the explosion in tourist arrivals.

Marine accidents, vessel sinkings, road deaths and ocean drownings are much too common in Phuket. As a result, the holiday island’s safety reputation is a shambles.

Photo: Edmilson Santos / Unsplash THE CURE The infrastructure, governmental and systematic public safety changes needed to reduce triad casualties will take years, perhaps even decades.

There is hope on the horizon, though. The swim programme that just took place at British International School, Phuket – BISP, a joint venture between Chiang Mai and Patong Rotary Clubs and Asia Pacific Environmental Network, is a huge step in the right direction.

Local businesses, especially hotels, along with concerned citizens groups

are beginning to recognise the severe impact the triad will have on Phuket’s tourism future and are starting to demand and take action.

It is only through the dedicated efforts of a caring and concerned community that the problems of the triad will be addressed. We must now face these issues squarely. The future of Phuket’s tourism depends on it.

Daren Jenner is a bodysurfer and Ocean Lifeguard in SE Asia. He is also a Marine Safety Officer for the International Surf Lifesaving Association.

14 TRAVEL

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

The resort is set in 50 acres of lush, tropical land.

Penthouse luxury.

Happy Holistay

Make a splash on a Phuket staycation Amy Bryant editor1@classactmedia.co.th

W

e can all find ourselves guilty of failing to see what’s right in front of us.

So quick are we to look beyond Phuket for city or beach breaks that we bypass the expert hospitality available on our very doorstep. Let Splash Beach Resort remind you that a staycation can be just as rejuvenating as any offshore escape.

The five-star resort sits on Mai Khao beach which, at 11 kilometres, is the longest beach on the island. The pine-fringed, golden sand coastline, which is a pristine and protected part of Sirinath National Park, sees relatively few sun-worshippers in comparison to Phuket’s other beaches, and so feels like something of a well-kept secret.

At its core, Splash Beach is a family resort and, with 26 types of residences available, they are sure to have a place for any family unit. Choose a penthouse for the luxury of a private pool and

a grand floor-to-ceiling window that bathes rooms in light. For an outdoor shower, kitchen and unbeatable views looking out into the big blue, book an ocean-facing villa.

Electric buggies are available around the clock to ferry guests around the 50acre resort; however, it’s possible, and pleasant, to walk the peaceful, green grounds on paths that curve delicately around lakes lined with palms and the resort’s signature frangipani trees.

During the day, Splash Beach is a bounce-off-the-walls arena of excitement for children and a break-fromit-all breathing space for adults. This juxtaposition plays out in real time.

Young ones hare between the outdoor pools and the three-storey interactive playground and marvel at the on-site entertainers, including super soldier Captain America who joined them over a buffet breakfast.

Parents ease themselves into the day with power yoga on the beach lawn, splashrobics in the pool or any of the host of other activities, and indulge in milk baths and restorative massages at the safe and firm hands of the spa’s therapists.

As the evening draws near on a Friday, and guests are treated to a west coast sunset of candy floss clouds, the beach club comes alive in a show of light and colour. Resident DJs provide the soundtrack as Samui Circus Studio’s interactive fire shows bring out the pyromaniac in us all and dazzle children and adults alike. Guests graze the all-

Splash Jungle fun. you-can-eat barbecue buffet, sup freeflow beverages and rehydrate at the fresh coconut bar.

The weekly event, which is open to guests and non-guests alike, is forging its own identity in Phuket’s saturated beach club market by being authentic, inclusive and without pretense. It’s not there to serve overpriced beverages and fill your Instagram feed, it’s a fun-forall-the-family, dance-in-the-sand affair.

And that’s wonderfully refreshing.

The integrated Splash Jungle water park (entrance to which comes free with each room booking) is another mustvisit. Thrill-seekers: head for the star attraction, Boomerango, a reverse free fall off a vertical wall. Chill-seekers: float along the 335-metre lazy river or glide up to the in-pool Splash Bar. An evening in Baan Thai is also in order. The restaurant serves up lake views and culinary delights from all four corners of the Kingdom.

It would be remiss not to mention the resort’s close proximity to Phuket International airport. The spectacle of take off and landing seen bar-side or pool-side is truly exhilarating.

How does Splash Beach Resort offer so much and then deliver it all so well after only six months in business?

Upon meeting John O’Shea, the resort’s Managing Director, it becomes clear.

A family man himself with more than 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, he understands Phuket’s need for a reliable resort with family at heart. And here it is.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM Lord of the fish pose.

HEALTH 15

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019 Straddle pose.

Cobra pose.

Posture perfect H LET’S GET BENT

Kim White kim@mindbodyyogasystem.com

This is half a rotation of the asana essential flow on the right side. Repeat the movements on the left side to complete one full rotation.

i and welcome to part two of my top six yoga postures (asanas) for a happier body and a healthier life.

I’m feeling very grateful to have shared two weeks with you this month.

I have created a video for you, filmed at the beautiful Siam Beach on Koh Racha, that runs through all six asanas from the two articles. It will be available through the online version of this article which goes live on Sunday.

Keeping it local and supporting Phuket brands, I am wearing local swimwear by Kaanda Beach Life.

The video puts the postures into a mini yoga flow that you can follow. My suggestion would be to start with good, steady rotations on each side once a day, holding each posture for a minimum of 20 seconds.

4. Lord of the fish pose Brings life back to the spine, stretches the shoulders, hips and neck, and relieves fatigue, backache and menstrual discomfort.

Sit on the floor, feet flat on the floor with both knees bent and sink into your sitting bones. (Sit on a folded blanket for extra support.)

Slide your left foot under your right leg to the outside of the right hip, your left little toe resting on the floor.

Step your right foot over your left leg and place the sole of your right foot on the floor close to your left hip.

Inhale, hug your left arm around your right thigh as you raise your right arm and roll your right shoulder down your back.

Exhale, placing your right hand onto the floor behind your right hip.

Hug your right knee close to your left shoulder.

Keep rolling your right shoulder down your back, looking over your right shoulder. Keep both sitting bones on the floor.

Keep your spine long and straight. Imagine the crown of your head is being suspended from above.

Hold for 20-30 seconds.

5. Straddle pose Releases the hip joints and the muscles of the groin, and improves pelvic circulation.

Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front.

Rotate your thighs outward and separate your legs away from each other while still maintaining relaxed knee caps and toes facing up to the ceiling.

Roll your shoulders down your back and hinge forward with a straight back. Try to touch the floor between your hands while maintaining a straight back.

Hold for 20-30 seconds.

6. Cobra pose Opens the heart and lungs, and stretches the chest, lungs, shoulders and stomach.

Lie on your stomach on the floor. Stretch your legs back, tops of your feet on the floor. Place your hands on the floor under your shoulders and keep your elbows facing back into your body.

Feel the pubic bone on the floor.

@thephuketnews

Inhale and begin to straighten your arms to lift your chest off the floor, going only to the height at which you can maintain a connection between mat and pubic bone.

Firm your shoulder blades against your back, extend your ribs and chest forward in order to keep the spine long and healthy for the lift.

Distribute the backbend evenly throughout the entire spine.

Hold for 20-30 seconds, maintaining a steady breath.

This is half a rotation of the asana essential flow on the right side. Repeat

the movements on the left side to complete one full rotation.

On another note, I am once again honoured to be announced as the Asia Travel & Hospitality Award ‘Best Yoga School in Thailand’.

I would like to thank everyone that has supported me; without your support I truly would not be here.

Thank you to the multitude of interesting and lovely people that have allowed me to share yoga with them.

Happy stretching.

Metta, Kim oxo

16 HISTORY

The Battle of Patong HISTORY OF PHUKET

Colin Mackay

T

he Englishman Thomas Bowrey was on Phuket as the island’s trouble with the Dutch escalated. He tells us that the main base for the Dutch patrol ships was “Banquala” Bay (Patong), where they were based to intercept boats coming east from India.

Bowrey relates that in 1675 “a great prowe of about 40 tunns,” from Aceh, funded by an Englishman, Willian Jersey, “an eminent Merchant at Fort St George [Madras] … had got in [to Banquala (Patong)] privately and traded for tinne.”

To hide itself the blockade-running prow had entered the creek that today empties into the south of Patong Bay. (This creek was bigger and much less silted up than it is today.) She was

pulled up the creek towards old Patong village where she was concealed and unloaded. The next morning a Dutch gunboat appeared in Patong Bay and dispatched some Dutch marines ashore to seize the Aceh prow in the creek.

Bowrey then tells us: “The merchants and inhabitants of Banquala did (in a very civil way) desire the Dutch not to molest them any, especially to make prise of them, soe longe as they were under the Radja of Jansalone’s protection and in theire river. But the Dutch, swelled up with ambition, told them plainely that all Roads and Rivers of Jansa­lone were theirs and therefore the prowe and her goods were theire lawful prize. Whereupon the Malay inhabitants, a very resolute people stood up for the achin­ers and took the prow and her goods by violence out of the hands of the Dutch.”

During this fight a Dutch marine fired a blunderbuss into the locals, killing two and dispersing the rest of the crowd. The Dutch gunship itself then also entered Patong creek and came up

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

to “where the river was very narrow,” presumably to take on the prow’s confiscated cargo.

Bowrey tells us that some while later an armed mob of around 200 locals soon reap­peared near the captured Aceh prow. He also tells us that further down the creek other locals: “cut downe 20 or 30 great trees, that fell athwart it and blocked it up so that not any passage back was left for sloop or boat. The Dutch findinge … the country too hot for them, betooke themselves to their sloop to be gone out into the roade [Patong Bay] but … when they came downe to this stoppage they could neither go down nor come up againe. Then they had nothing to trust to but their fire­arms which could not helpe them very longe, for the Malayars overpowered them and cut off every man and pulled their sloop in pieces.”

With the British again in Siam and with the powerful French also courting him to gain access to Siam and Phuket’s tin, King Narai now felt sufficiently confident to resist the consequent VOC [Dutch East India Company] demands for compensation for the Patong incident.

In 1677, two years later, a frustrated Governor Bort of the VOC in Malacca complained, “up to the present, not the smallest vengeance has been taken nor punishment inflicted for this murder and damage, nor has any satisfaction been given, where­fore the governors in that state have been encouraged and have become more insolent and petulant and have treated our people with so much less esteem and regard. They have even taken the whole of the trade from us and handed it over to other foreigners coming from abroad.”

To make matters worse, that year (1677) the Phuketians attacked and pillaged yet another Dutch blockade ship. After this assault and still no recompense, the VOC directors seriously discussed invading and colonising Phuket.

When King Narai was informed of this planned Dutch invasion he immediately sent orders to Phuket that each of the island’s three seaports should build two large war prows big enough to carry ten guns. Bowrey informs us that King Narai’s instructions were that these war prows “should keep two and two to­gether and if they should meet a single Dutch ship they should fight her and give her no quarter. If they met with a fleet they should runne in and give intelligence for the countrey to be up in arms and not suffer any sloops to come up their rivers or land, neither should they observe any flagge of truce or have the least converse with them.”

Moreover, if any Phuket officials failed to comply immediately, the king would have them executed. The Phuket governor immediately sent out his officers to “presse all the carpenters and set them to work.” El­ephants were employed to “carry down the guns, firearms, shot

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

VOC iron cannons at Phuket Provincial Hall.

17th century Siamese picture depicting stakes and trees used to block a European ship in a river before attacking it – a technique in the 1675 battle. and powder, thereby to have all things in readiness” and the armed war prows were ready in just over a month.

Ultimately, however, the VOC directors decided they had had enough. They did not want a war with Siam nor the cost of building forts and defending Phuket, which they anyway felt was just “a poor and under populated area with an unhealthy climate.”

Even maintaining the blockade of Phuket, for a trade so meagre and troublesome, made little financial sense. The VOC at the time already employed over 3,500 sailors and 18,000 slaves on its patrol ships in the East at great expense.

Plus the tin price had recently fallen in China and the VOC was only making a 21% mark-up on the tin it bought in Phuket whilst items from other peninsular ports made much more, for example deer hides from Ligor sold in China at 189% profit and Sappanwood made over 300%.

The VOC did continue to try to get King Narai to honour its tin-buying monopoly con­tract in Phuket that he had signed, but King Narai evaded the issue by telling the Dutch that the lawlessness on the island made it too dangerous a place for them. In the meantime however, the wily king gave [the French] tin-buying rights on Phuket.

Bowrey tells us that the stubborn, violent resistance by the Phuketians had eventually “so squashed the Dutch designs over this place that they went away with theire ships and other sloops and never molested Jansalone any more.”

Today there is almost no trace at all on Phuket of the half-century that the Dutch claimed dominion over the island. The only evidence seems to be the two VOC iron cannons dating from 1620 on display in Phuket Provincial Hall. These cannon may have been sold to Siam, stolen from the VOC factory at Tharua or maybe taken from one of the captured VOC patrol ships.

Adapted with kind permission from the book ‘A History of Phuket and the Surrounding Region’ by Colin Mackay.

Available from good bookshops and Amazon.com. Order the softcover 2nd edition directly at: www.historyofphuket. com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

EDUCATION 17

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

The ‘Nev Mars’ effect

Great teachers instill a love of learning in their students EDUCATION CORNER Chris Greene

W

ho do you remember with more fondness: the teachers who got you good grades or the teachers whose subjects you loved?

Teachers are not robots, neither are students. No two teachers are the same or teach in exactly the same manner. No two teachers can deliver the same lesson in exactly the same way. And, even if by some fluke they did (maybe two identical twins who had planned the lesson together?), the learning outcomes in those two lessons cannot possibly be the same if you take into account the other confounding variable: the students!

Twenty-five different human beings with different DNA, different family backgrounds, different amounts of bouncing hormones, each having had a different experience that morning in the lead up to the lesson, each having had a different bowl of cereal and a

@thephuketnews

Teachers are not robots. Photo: BISP different trip to school, each with a different set of concerned parents.

Over the years I have been asked by many people, “How come you teach Spanish?” For some reason, based mainly on prejudice, people find it strange that a man from Liverpool should end up speaking and teaching a foreign language. The answer is quite simple: the ‘Nev Mars’ effect. He was my Spanish teacher for the last four years of my secondary education.

Nev (bless his soul) wouldn’t have known what a learning intention looked or sounded like if it landed in front of him on his plate of paella, but he made me love Spanish and want to know and learn more about the culture, the people, the food, the music, the language and everything else. He was a great and effective teacher because he had that human bond with his students. He made his lessons interesting and amusing and engaged us.

He did that because he was Nev Mars, Manchester born and bred. He was not programmable. He was not a robot.

Parker J. Palmer puts it so well in the preface to his book The Courage to Teach: “...good teaching cannot be reduced to technique but is rooted in the identity and integrity of the teacher. Good teaching takes myriad forms but good teachers share one trait: they are authentically present in the classroom, in community with their students and their subject.

“They...are able to weave a complex web of connections between themselves, their subjects, and their students, helping their students weave a world for themselves. Connections made by good teachers are held not in their methods but in their hearts – the place where intellect, emotion, spirit, and will converge in the human self.”

So, what is it that makes an inspiring and effective teacher in this day and age? (To be continued.)

Chris Greene is the Head of Modern Languages at British International School, Phuket – BISP. For more information, visit them at www.bisphuket. ac.th or call +66 (0) 76 335 555.

18 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Craig, Michael and Simon.

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

John, Eve, Anthony and Richard.

Carolyn, Olga, Pat and Filipa.

Wicky, Jeniffer and Take.

AUSTCHAM HOSTS ‘DOING BUSINESS IN ASEAN’ INTERNATIONAL PANEL The Australian Chamber of Commerce (AustCham), together with partner Chambers and the Australian Alumni, marked another superb turnout for its event on Mar 8, combining a panel discussion with expert speakers on “Doing business in Asean: What does it really mean?” followed by the Sundowners networking event at the shores of the lake at the Angsana Laguna Phuket resort.

Jason, Donna, Ai, Jo, Michelle, Tina and Craig.

Ai, Tina, Craig and Sue.

INSPIRATIONAL INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY LUNCH AT ANGSANA Over 150 guests joined Phuket Has Been Good To Us and The Good Shepherd Phuket to celebrate the social and economic achievements of women. The event at Angsana Laguna Phuket held on Mar 6, just before International Women’s Day, saw a welcome address from Australia's Consul-General to Phuket and a host of inspiring female speakers.

The event was supported by The Australian Consulate-General Phuket, Angsana Laguna Phuket, The Phuket News and Baan Rim Pa Restaurant Group.

STANDUP ASIA BRINGS GLOBAL COMEDY TO PHUKET STAGE There were tears (of joy...) at the monthly StandUp Asia comedy night at Marriott Resort, Merlin Beach on Mar 10. The hilarious line-up of global comics – Kevin Gildea (Ireland), Imran Yusuf (UK) and Deepak Chandran (India) took to the stage and had audiences splitting their sides with their original comedy.

Kiran and Jaspal.

Reuben and Normandy.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

ISLAND SCENE 19

Guests at the Phuket Boat Lagoon celebrations.

Khun Siricha, Khun Thana, Khun Chalee, Khun Boon Yongsakul and Wicky Sundram.

Khun Boon Yongsakul (right) presenting the Long Term Tenants Award to Scott Bradley from East Marine Asia & Precision Shipwright Services.

Khun Boon Yongsakul (right) presenting the Long Term Tenants Award to Muzza of Canvas Creations.

BOAT LAGOON MARKS SILVER ANNIVERSARY OF LIFESTYLE PARTNERSHIPS Phuket Boat Lagoon, Thailand’s first marina, celebrated 25 years of lifestyle partnerships on Mar 10 with a host of business associates and invited guests. Chairman and Founder of Boat Lagoon, Khun Kanit Yongsakul, and his family members were on hand to welcome the guests to the event which was held at the marina’s White House marquee.

Floral fun.

Thai socialites, expats and media danced and mingled at the event.

DREAM BEACH CLUB BRINGS STUDIO 54 TO PHUKET WITH SCREENING PARTY On Feb 23, hardcore disco lovers and local media headed to Level One at Dream Beach Club for the exclusive Asia screening of the Studio 54 documentary. The after party saw original Studio 54 resident DJ Bert Bevans take to the decks with music inspired by the era and revellers dance way into the night.

Celebs, senior execs and Thai media turned out.

Hip hop legends Thaitanium.

THAITANIUM HEADLINE HIP HOP CLUB SUGAR PHUKET GRAND OPENING Sugar Club Phuket pulled out all the stops at their grand opening on Feb 25. The hip hop venue was aptly headlined by legends of the genre Thaitanium and followed by Bankk Cash, Bangkok Invaders, DJ Buddah, DJ Ono and DJ FatFingaz (Hot97) all the way from NYC. 2,000 guests celebrated Sugar’s explosive entrance to the Patong club scene. @thephuketnews

20 EVENTS

FRI

15 MAR

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: natural, marnière, Provençale, garlic and cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 P/P. shakersphuket@ gmail.com 081 891 4381.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM competitive football at the incredible facilities.

Bring them along to either U9/U11 or U13/U15 fixtures at the advertised times! See you there!

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

3,850 net per adult (food only) THB 2,200 net per child aged from 6 to 18 (with free-flow juices and soft drinks) For more information and bookings, please call +66 76 380 200 or fbreservation@thenaiharn.com

St. Patrick’s Day Food Competition 2019 Don’t’ miss the 3nd Annual Culinary Completion @ QSI Phuket on Saturday March 16th from 11:00 – 15:30. Schools from around Phuket will compete in two divisions, junior and senior.

They will compete in creating an original and chef replicated dish. These dishes will then be judged by our celebrity executive chef judges, who will decide this year’s Top Chefs.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

Phuket’s biggest Paddy’s day party. Live music, come on down. Irish Times Pub, Jungceylon, Parong.

Beef, Pork and Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservations recommended. B350 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

St. Patrick’s Day

ALL YOU CAN EAT BBQ RIBS Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY served ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in All You Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs, Chicken and Sides for ONLY 495 BAHT! Our BBQ is famous at Two Chefs! Come try us out and enjoy our mouthwatering pork ribs, flavor-bursting chicken and more! Join us for Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the Fun. www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

SAT

16 MAR

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night 6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ Ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces. Reservation recommended. 295 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

Sunday Roast All Day, All Night

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an Open Irish Mic night, traditional Irish inspired beverages and buffet, followed by the live showing of the Six Nations Rugby game, Wales vs Ireland from 9:30 pm. Each performer receives a complimentary drink, and wear St. Patrick’s festive green colours, receive a complimentary shooter! Entrance is complimentary, the Irish themed buffet is priced at THB 890 ++ per person, 6 - 9 pm, beverages are priced individually. Reservations and Open Mic registration.

Reservation, The Pavilions Phuket, firefly.phuket@ pavilionshotels.com, 076 317 600.

SUN

17 MAR

The Great Nai Harn Phuket Sunday Brunch, just got better…

Futsal League 2019 Is your child interested in football? Would they enjoy enhancing their football skills whilst spending time with friends? At British International School Phuket, the Cruzeiro Saturday morning league will allow your child to play fun,

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 445 Baht! Enjoy a Large ALL YOU CAN EAT selection of your favorites! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin and Chicken.

Roasted or Mashed Potatoes. Roasted Mixed Vegetables Flavored with Thyme and Garlic.

Yorkshire Pudding and Gravy. Enjoy Live Music from 8-Late Performed by Our Famous Two Chefs Band! Come for the FOOD - Stay for the Fun. RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/ TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents Reservations, Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong., Kata Beach 076-333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286-479 Patong 076-344-914.

With our exclusive offer 4 guests eat for the price of 3! Culinary maestro Executive Chef Mark Jones, added exquisite new dishes for the most demanding palates. Experience it while enjoying the spectacular views over Nai Harn Bay and listening to the sounds of Resident DJ Sun. Every Sunday from 12:30 - 15:00 hrs THB 5,500 net per adult (With free-flow premium beverage handpicked by James Suckling) THB

Raise your glasses on March 17, 2019 at ALL Two Chefs Bar & Grill Branches as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! Enjoy Two Chefs bestseller Traditional Sunday Roast for just THB445 with green draft brew for just THB99! Not into alcohol? Let’s give you a caffeine boost with our Irish Coffee also at THB99! As they say, everybody’s Irish on St. Paddy’s day! Make your reservations NOW! Visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/TwoChefsThailandReservation

MON

18 MAR

All you can eat BBQ night 6pm – 11pm: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns and Squid, Salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. B395 P/P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Sala Sunday Night Steak & Seafood Premium barbecue main course, including imported Australian Rib Eye, full rack of Lamb or whole Phuket Lobster accompanied by buffet of delicious appetizers. Live music from 6.30pm. Premium BBQ. 1,700*Baht. Reservations, Sala Phuket, events@salaphuket.com 076 338 888.

Simmer & Spice Curry buffet, Great variety, Vibrant flavours.

Every Monday from 18.30 - 21.30. Reservations, SALA Phuket, events@salaphuket.com, 076 338 888.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

WED

20 MAR

Sala Wednesday nights: Ribs, beats, brews Devour our succulent pork rib set complete with sweet corn chowder, blue cheese salad, moist cornbread and finish it off with a bread and butter pudding. DJ Q will keep the soul flowing and your toes tapping as you wash down those tender ribs with a bucket of craft brews. Full Rack set B1,600, Half Rack set B1,200, bucket of craft brews B800. Reservations, SALA Phuket Resort and Spa. Email: events@sala phuket. com or call 076 338 888.

THU

21 MAR

PIWC Annual General Meeting If you are in Phuket, be sure to join all of us at the AGM and hear about all the activities from the previous year plus elect the new Committee for 2019-20. This is a great opportunity for all members to get an update on the work of the club, including the scholarship programme and our various social activities. Look for your invitation with more details in your email and any questions (or if you can’t make it but want to vote by proxy) please contact any member of the Committee who will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Tel: +66 (0) 76397-777 Time: Starting at 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch.

SAT

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

23 MAR

thon *Healthy Nutritious Post Training meal and lunch *Injury prevention *Healthy nutrition *Running specific strength training *Mindset training *Instant access to The Ramp Up Your Run Community. Ticket Price - 2,900b. Darren, Phuket Boat Lagoon, darrenscherbain@gmail. com

WED

27 MAR

Baba Beach Club x Colours of Love March 27-31, Wild Sirenda presents Colours of Love @ Baba Beach Club Phuket. This 5 day experience will bring together an ever-growing community of free-thinkers, awakened beings and global go-getters. Uniting in celebration to activate your dreams, this incredible music and wellness lineup will create the perfect journey for your experience Baba Beach Club Phuket.

For more information & bookings, contact us: 076 429 388.

SAT

30 MAR

Phuket’s Best Burger 2019 ‘Dare to Dream’ Now in its 5th Year Phuket Best Burger has become one of Phuket’s most loved events. This year Phuket’s Best Burger will be getting all burgerliscious at Boat Lagoon Marina on Saturday 30th March, restaurateurs and chefs will all compete to see whose burger reigns supreme and become Phuket’s Best Burger 2019 “Dare to Dream”. Boat Lagoon Marina

SUN

31 MAR

Ramp Up Your Run Clinic - Starting You on the Road to a Healthier and Active Lifestyle

Supersport 10 Mile International Run 2019

March 23rd 7am @ Phuket Boat Lagoon. 10km or 1/2 marathon Preparation for the Laguna Phuket Marathon. Have you ever wanted to run a 10km or 1/2 marathon? Are you a seasoned runner and thought just because you are getting older that your best times are behind you? Your Entry Includes: *Dynamic better running technique training session *10 week step by step training guide for either the 10km or 1/2 mara-

Get yourselves ready for the Supersports 10 Mile International Run Series Thailand 2019. Thailand’s number 1 sports retail store, Supersports, is back with 5 challenging races across Thailand.

• Phuket (31 March 2019) at Thanyapura Phuket • Hatyai (28 April 2019) at Central Festival Hatyai • Bangkok (19 May 2019) at CentralWorld • Korat (29 September 2019) at Central Plaza Nakhon Ratchasima • Chiang Mai (27 October 2019) at

@thephuketnews

Central Festival Chiang Mai Part of the entry fees will be donated to both the “Queen Sirikit Center for Breast Cancer Foundation” under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Queen Sirikit, and “The National Paralympic Committee of Thailand” which is under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King. Register for 5 races at once and enjoy a 10% discount.

WED

3 APR

SAT

27 APR

Blue Horizon WCGC Thailand 2019

Hospitality Golf Challenge 2019 The 4th Laguna Phuket Hospitality Challenge charity golf tournament will take place on the 3rd April 2019, with an amazing day of gourmet golf at Laguna Golf Phuket Course all in aid of The Children First Fund. Why not come and join the event with some great local hole sponsors treating all the golfers to some fun challenges and exciting Food and Beverage service. We are proud to have 89.5FM and Phuket News TV as our Media Partner and Sponsor. Visit www.aseanevents.com or email mark@asean-events.com

FRI

brate the 25th anniversary on 12-20 April 2019.

This event will be the large gathering of motorcyclists, expecting to draw over 5,000 motorcycles, 50,000 visitors from more than 30 countries to Phuket. The excitement will take place in Patong beach on 12 - 14 April 2019 and in Phuket Town (Phuket Boat Lagoon) on 19 - 20 April 2019.

5 APR

The Blue Horizon World Corporate Golf Challenge continues in 2019 with the top 10% of teams (2 people per team) from each qualifier gaining entry to the Thailand Final on the 27th of April 2019 at Laguna Golf Club Phuket. Prominent sponsors provide an all-expenses paid trip to the World Final at Oitavoss Dunes in Cascais, Portugal. For more details and to sign up contact events@foremanagement.com

THU

13 JUN

Grow Boating Phuket Networking Evening The Grow Boating Networking Evening for April 2019 will be held at The Lagoon Saloon, at The Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina from 5pm onward.

Please contact us if you would like to be our drinks sponsors. Once again Lagoon Saloon will fire up the BBQ serving their famous Friday night burger free to all attendees and there will be special prices on your favourite local drinks. Come and join in the fun, everyone is welcome. There is no entry fee, just drop your business card or register at the bar.

To join our mailing list please send an email to growboatingphuket@gmail.com. Grow Boating is kindly supported by our media partner The Phuket News, Live 89.5 radio and Phuket News TV. The Grow Boating Networking Evening is proud to support the Thai Yachting Business Association. Find us on thaiyachtingbusinessassociation.com

FRI

Phuket Wellness Connection 2019 Before April 15, 2019 - 8,000 baht (registration free is 12,000 baht) Free Oilgoscan testing (8,000 baht value). Novotel Phokeethra Hotel Phuket, heatantiaging@gmail.com, 061 401 0345.

EVERY DAY

12 APR Prime at Rock Salt

Phuket Bike Week 2019 Phuket Bike Week 2019 “World Ride Together”, the Asian biggest motorcycle event, will cele-

Prime at Rock Salt is the home of smoke and fire at Naiharn Beach. An exclusive eatery, Prime offers a collection of roasted, smoked and chargrilled creations from its custom-designed kitchen. The al fresco dining experience is completed with panoramic ocean views across Naiharn Beach. Open Daily 6.00 – 10.00 pm at Naiharn Beach For more information and bookings, please call +66 76 380 200 or rocksalt@ thenaiharn.com

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. What is Chuck Norris’s real first name?

2. At the minimum, how hot is molten lava?

3. Which river runs through Baghdad?

4. Which US President featured on the US$500 bill (no longer in circulation)?

5. Which is the only sea without any coasts?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Easy

Across 1. Fastener 5. Cottontail’s tail 9. Game table fabric 14. Drunk 15. Nonsense 16. Duck 17. Keen on 18. S.A. bird 19. Failure 20. Writer 23. Give as an example 24. Spoke 28. Wise one 31. Duck breed 33. Beer 34. People who categorize 36. Massage 37. Regulation 38. Frequently, to Keats 39. Jacob’s twin 40. Outback runner 41. Writer 45. Aardvark’s dinner 46. Ends partner 47. Absolves 48. Bad atmosphere 50. Milky-white gem 51. Writer 57. Cause to lose one’s nerve 60. Wagon part 61. Chow

62. Oyster gem 63. Train like Tyson 64. 15 Mar 65. Besmirched 66. Flip 67. Pointed end

appearance 28. Riot 29. College graduates 30. European term relating to the value of a Down currency 1. Draft 31. Examines closely 2. Prong 32. Distribute, with 3. Golden rule “out” preposition 35. Poker game 4. Frame for an withdrawal opening 39. Bionomic 5. Opera’s finale 41. Feminine components 42. Hebrew month 6. Blue jack 43. Ludacris and T.I. 7. Customer 44. Headliner 8. Take out of the 49. Brainy freezer 50. Spicy stews 9. Roars 52. Hurl a fishing line 10. Garlic 53. A Montreal ball mayonnaise player 11. Passports, for 54. Language of example Lahore 12. Alphabet ending 55. Attacks legally 13. Slip 56. Cook’s 21. Bombay and measurement, Gordon’s abbr.

22. Since 25. Heisman trophy 57. Pkg. deliverer winner in 2002, 58. “The One” (Matrix) first name 26. A liquid solution 59. “Little Red Book” writer 27. Makes a first

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Carlos (Carlos Ray Norris, born March 10, 1940); 2) At least 700ºC (up to 1,200ºC); 3) Tigris; 4) William McKinley; 5) Sargasso Sea (North Atlantic)

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

1

painting only is all that Vincent van Gogh sold during his lifetime; a few months before he died.

3

times more likely to get a potential date’s phone number is a man if he has a dog with him.

6

years is how much the average person spends dreaming during his or her lifetime.

7

percent of American adults believe chocolate milk comes from brown cows, according to a 2017 study.

30

The Day’s Finish Line. Photo: Amalie Sofie Jansen, 14 years old @ QSI Phuket Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket? Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

This week in history

US cents per day is all it costs for US internet providers to provide the average person internet access.

Mar 15, 44 BC Julius Caesar, Dictator of the Roman Republic, is stabbed to death

by Marcus Junius Brutus, Gaius Cassius Longinus, Decimus Junius Brutus, and several other Roman senators on the Ides of March.

hours every year is how long the average American spends stuck in traffic.

Mar 16, 1995 Mississippi formally ratifies the Thirteenth Amendment, becoming the last state to approve the abolition of slavery. The Amendment was officially ratified in 1865.

38

Source: Uberfacts

Mar 17, 1824 The Anglo-Dutch Treaty is signed in London, dividing the Malay archipelago. As a result, the Malay Peninsula is dominated by the British, while Sumatra and Java and surrounding areas are dominated by the Dutch.

Mar 18, 1241 First Mongol invasion of Poland: Mongols overwhelm Polish armies in Kraków in the Battle of Chmielnik and plunder the city.

Mar 20, 2003 Invasion of Iraq: In the early hours of the morning, the United States and three other countries – the UK, Australia and Poland – begin military operations in Iraq under ‘Operation Iraqi Freedom’.

HMAS Canberra sails into Sydney in 1930. Photo: Australian War Memorial Mar 19, 1932 The Sydney Harbour Bridge is officially opened.

Mar 21, 1980 US President Jimmy Carter announces a United States boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow to protest the SovietAfghan War. Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 23

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Jobs

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

International Sales Support

APR is an international company dealing with customers in Asia and Australia, as well as decorative surface suppliers from Europe. Asia Pacific Representatives Ltd. are looking for: Support staff for our sales team Age: 20-35 years Thai National Excellent English language skills required Knowledge of Microsoft office Comprehensive understanding of Microsoft Excel Office location: Phuket – Chalong Tasks will include: - Project tracking and follow up - Communication with international suppliers and customers - Understanding of our products and services Please submit your resume and recent photo jobs@apr-pfleiderer.com

The View Kata - Wanted

Interested Buyer looking for Foreign Freehold Units at The View Kata Phuket. If you are an owner or have any available units, please contact: +66872699206 or email mick11468@gmail.com URG

ENT

Personal Assistant

For retired UK/CAD businessman in high end resort.

Good English, some driving, shopping etc. Part Time OK. Brian 089 054 4354. @thephuketnews

Art House Real Estate company

Looking for Thai Marketing manager at the property booth, Patong Area, for more detail please contact: info@arthouse.asia

Thai Yoga Instructor

Position available now - Full Time Position - 24 Yoga Classes per month. Wellness Skills - Certificated to teach various Yoga Styles. Additional Health Skills i.e. Aerial Yoga, Acro Yoga, etc. - Assist with Yoga Class inquires and Retreat health consultations. English Speaking - Thai National only 25,000 to 30,000. Kenneth Miller 0866041333. www.ccshideaway.com/wellness.htm

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 25

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Trades & Services

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ADVERTISING SERVICES

CLEANING SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

@thephuketnews

26 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Trades & Services

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

classifieds@thephuketnews.com

MARINE SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

OTHER

PROPERTY SERVICES

TRAINING

ADVERTISE HERE

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 27

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Buy & Sell BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE

FOR SALE AIR BERTH M320

250,000THB incl VAT. For boat up to 32 feet / 9.5 metres. Contact: Asia Yacht Agency Co., Ltd. Contact@AsiaYacht Agency. com, 081-894 -3234 (French/ English), 086-269-0808 (Thai/ English).

BUSINESS FOR SALE UR

N GE

TS

AL

E

Golden Business Opportunity

Brand new two story massage shop for sale with high end furniture. 10 Beds, 6 chairs and nail Salon. Great opportunity for high season. B900,000 ono, Lek, Soi Post Office, Patong Beach Road, sweet_ lek55@hotmail.com, 099 362 7979

@thephuketnews

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE Subaru XV

Car for sale

Cross trek bought new 2013.

Well maintained, glass coating, rust proofing, new tires, single owner. Must see! Nicha Residence, 0892873128.

Chevrolet Trailblazer LTZ 2.8 CC. 4X4 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 janthisa jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, info@lifestyleinthailand.com, B 725,000

Monterey 415SY. Perfect condition. 1 owner. Regular maintenance in authorized centers. Twin Volvo IPS600 435hp, joystick control, Engine Hours: 670. Furuno radar. GPS. B6,900,000. 0878970501.

All prices are for up to 6 people, include: - land transfers, lunch, soft drinks, water, tea/ coffee and selected beverages, fruits and services of a captain and a stewardess. Charters start at 9 am, finish at 5 pm. Hours can be adjusted. Pavel, fortuna-2009@bk.ru, +7 984 188-62-89. Pavel (WhatsApp) +7 914 790-73-78 Pavel (WhatsApp) +66 83-475-7351 Pavel + +35799989736 (WhatsApp)

@thephuketnews

CARS, TRUCKS FOR SALE

42ft Sport Yacht,Reduced Price

AL Sunreef 60 Loft, TS N year 2016, 185,000 URGE baht day charter

The Phuket News

E

2012 Ford Ranger 2.2 Open Cab

UR

78,000km. Six-gear manual transmission. Looks and feels like a new car, treated like a baby by its single owner. Engine clean as. Full set of new tyres. B500,000. Call 081 427 5168.

Car For Sale

Immaculate condition, QUICK SELL REDUCED PRICE includes over 1M baht in options; GT Brembo brakes, Adjustable suspension, performance exhaust. Pioneer AVHX8850BT with Audison sound system. ADV7.1SL. 1 Piece forged rims.

1.35M OBO, Dan Miles, danmilesmedia@gmail.com, 065 621 5541, Thai 091 165 9332.

SA

LE

Mitsubishi 2.0 GT Mivec Auto

Excellent Condition. Modifications on the car - Dual stainless steel exhaust, Bonnet, front & rear bumper, side skirts are Evo X Upgrade, Tinted windows and Upgraded alloy wheels. THB 470,000. Call Lek 0991677378.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL

Ford Fiesta 2012 For sale English 095 420 9662 Thai 082 629 1419 Janthisa Jaikwang, 199/14 หม ู ่ 5 ตำ�บลศร สี นุ ทร อำ�เภอ ถลาง จังหวัดภ เู ก ็ต, B 250,000 info@lifestyleinthailand.com, 0826291419

Toyota GT 2013 - FT86

G

T EN

Loan money for bail

Pablo, pablolawyer@gmail.com, Whats up +79841886289 Whats up +79147907378

MEMBERSHIPS

BLUE CANYON GOLF MEMBERSHIP

425,000 THB and Seller pays the transfer fee. For more information call 098 946 0709. Rob George.

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE Ducati Multistrada 2012

2012 Model Multistrada. Perfect condition. Only 23,000 kms.

Faithfully maintained. Have panniers and 15 liter tank bag.

Steve, ducphuket@gmail.com, 081-734-8309.

28 CLASSIFIEDS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Buy & Sell

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY WANTED

The Heights Phuket - Freehold

Interested Buyers looking for Foreign Freehold Units at the Height Phuket, if you are an owner or have any available units, please contact: +66872699206 or email mick11468@gmail.com

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Mueang Phuket 1 Bed Condo

Wonderful 1 Bedroom Condo near Central Festival area. Just 10 minutes to Panwa Beach. A must see!!!

Fully furnished and conveniently located. Amenities close by as well as tourist attractions. Full condo facilities. B2,500,000, Christine, 094 841 1918.

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Paul MOORHOUSE

‘Frontline’ sea view villa overlooking G Ao Yon Bay and the southern islands.

UR Magnificent property with private elevator, 4 bedroom suites/6 bathrooms as well as 2 living areas, european design kitchen, games room, bar, sauna, steam room and wonderful pool deck with in-ground jacuzzi, infinity pool and waterfall. Fabulous property reduced to 65 million Baht for quick sale. 0898737075.

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Paul MOORHOUSE

Recently fully renovated villa at the heart of Laguna Phuket. Huge plot, 4/5 bedrooms, study, dining lounge, European kitchen, lots of decking, large garden and sala with pool and a double garage. Can walk anywhere in Laguna and Boat Avenue in 5 minutes or so and includes family Laguna Golf and Sanctuary Club Membership. Fully furnished and equipped, freehold or leasehold to suit buyer. Reduced price for quick sale.

22 million Baht, ceopaulm@hotmail.com, +66898737075.

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Layan Gardens Luxury Apartment

Layan Gardens is a luxurious complex of only 40 wonderful 3 and 4 bedroom apartments just outside Laguna Phuket with tremendous facilities including 3 pools, jacuzzi, BBQ areas, Floodlit tennis court, boules pitch, golf pitching and putting area and much more. We currently have 2 apartments for sale (from 15.5 million Baht) and 2 apartments available for long term let (minimum 12 months). Check out this wonderful development on our website and contact us for sales or lettings.0898737075.

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1 Bed Condo in Kamala

Great 1 Bed Condo just 200m fromKamala Beach. Comes with pool and onsite restaurant. Fantastic location and not to be missed. Fully furnished with appliances. Homestay or investment.

B5,417,000. Call Andy. 083 800 1888

5-Bed Pool Villa 1.2 Rai Rawai

Villa with 4 beds, open-plan living area, western kitchen. Separate 1-bed guest suite. Separate workshop and laundry. Pool 11mx5m, large private garden, residential area. www.thaivillaonline.com Price - B15,750,000.

0844477247.

Mai Khao 1 Bed Condo Sale

MontAzure Twinpalms Residence-Great condo located in Kamala. The ultimate in luxury. Has got to be seen to be believed. Fantatsic facilities in this resort condo. B15,800,000, Tina, 0872699206.

2 Bed Condo Bangtao Phuket

PERSONAL SERVICES Business Services

Providing International Clients with Complete Debt Recovery Solutions in the Phuket. Pablo, Umbrellacorp144@gmail.com, +66952688880 and +35799989736 (WhatsApp)

White sand beach

29 Rai with breathtaking views and 128 meter of white sand beach frontage on Koh Yao Yai, just 20 minutes from Phuket away, secure Chanote tittle, public concrete road, water, electricity and ready to build for sale direct from owner for only 5.5 mln per Rai. Montha, montha_phuket@yahoo. com, 095 0147888.

2-Bed Furnished Kathu House for Rent

2bd/2bth furnished house for rent in Kathu near Loch Palm Golf Course. See link for more photos and details. www.kathuhouseforrent.com B13,500, May or Wes, wes@pillarmarketing.com, 0899733276

Penthouse for sale

432.44 Sqm.Penthouse for sale: 320 Degree view of Patong bay and city. Private pool. 22nd floor (top floor) at Andaman Beach Condominium, Patong, Phuket, Thailand. Condo Facilities. see beachsuites.com/gallery. No broker please. 60 Million Baht O.N.O., Songpan, songpanpirom@hotmail.com, 081 737 8662.

PROPERTY FOR RENT Stunning Ocean Views!

4 bed/bath large pool villa. Privately located in Cape Heights Cape Yamu. Furnished. Gardens. Fiber WiFi. 80,000/rent long term or 30 million to sell. Richard, Cape Yamu, Phuket, richarddesmondcapeheights@yahoo.co.uk, +66824203270, WhatsApp

COMMUNITY

PROPERTY FOR RENT

1 Bed Condo in Kamala

Mai Khao Beach Condo-Great condo. 5mins from Splash Jungle Water Park. Wonderful location and is a must see. B5,300,000, Christine, 0948411918.

Fantastic seaviews. Fully furnished. Condo facilities including pool and gym. Close to amenities. This 58sqm condo at Babylon Sky Garden is a great buy.

B3,600,000, Andy, phuket@thairesidential.com, 083 800 1888.

2bed 2bath 295sqm land 100sqm living + veranda, compl. renovated: new water, electric., tiles, paint in/out, windows, 3A/C, built in kitchen. 0870608400 English/German. Email: picharly@gmail.com, B4.9mill.

1 Bed Condo Sale Rawai

Lovely condo at Utopia Kata for Sale. Completed in 2017 and close to Kata Beach. Fully furnished. Close to restaurants and amenities. Great views. Rental programme.

Full facilities. Dimtry, 082 030 7199. B7,100,000

Rawai 1 Bed Seaview Condo for Sale

Dream Village Phuket house

Saturdays Residence beautiful condo in Rawai. Tastefully decorated with class. Short drive to beach. All condo amenities. Looks so good that you do need to see to believe. You will fall in love at first sight. B6,300,000, Dimitry, phuket@thairesidential.com, 082 030 7199

1 Bedroom Condo Kata Sale

Mandala Condominium - Wonderful spacious condo. Great location near Bangtao beach and Laguna. 184sqm with private pool and tropical gardens. B15,900,000, Andy, 083 800 1888

2-Bedroom Royal Phuket Marina Condo. Must be seen to be believed. So much space! 195m2 Stylish, Tastefully-Decorated Condominium Fully Furnished Overlooking Yacht Marina an absolute bargain @ 13.5 Million Baht, Christine, 0948411918

RPM by owner

A Unique luxury condo 2 bed, 2 bath, 155sqm. Foreign FREEHOLD. Architect remodel in tropical white. Jacuzzi.

All round beautiful views. Completely furnished to a high standard. Very motivated owner leaving Thailand.

Available to agents. Priced at 16MB or offers. Contact Brian (Owner) 089 054 4354, 076 360 943. bggvirgo@ gmail.com

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Sale - Koh Kaew, 2-Bed Condo

Paul MOORHOUSE

On the west side of Cape Panwa overlooking a stunning beach and Chalong Bay this wonderful property sits in 1.75 Rai’s of beautiful landscaped grounds and has a huge pool, jacuzzi, waterfall, shaded and non-shaded decking, large bar/dining sala and much more. With 4 bedroom suites and ample space to build more if required. This superb property with great sea views must be viewed. Being sold at a reduced price for urgent sale and is fully furnished and equipped and ready to move in immediately. B57,000,000. 0898737075.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m.

Chanote

PASAK LAND 3.9MB 510 sq.m. Chanote

Private location in prestige area. Outstanding Value. Call owner (Alan): 084 0657590.

Renovated 3bed Home Boat Lagoon

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY: Beautifully renovated & decorated 3bed+mezzanine, 250 sqm contemporary house featuring: boat berth, rooftop jacuzzi, open kitchen, wine cooler, 2 parkings, storage & laundry area. B 75,000 per month, Henry Cumberlege, hcumberlege@gmail.com

Villa in Patong prime location

One of the last Villas available in Patong. in top condition. 24 hour security. 3 bed, 3 bath, 160sqm living. Fully furnished, garden. Ms. Manatchanok, 0800409411

Villa Mission Heights Big Pool

3bed, 3 1/2 bath, 330sqm living, 900 sqm land, very quite aera, 2 km mission hill golf, 6km UWC, 8 km airport. owner finance. 0870608400 engl/ german 12.9MB, picharly@gmail. com

Paul MOORHOUSE

Solid, profitable business for sale at the entrance to Laguna Phuket. Specialising in Ladies Fashion, Beachwear, Footwear, accessories and jewelry.

New 3 year lease on large unit and fully equipped and quality stocked store. Ready to take over and no additional costs. Tel 089 8737075 for more information.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

Above and beyond

Northern boys’ 24hr drive for Phuket comp FOOTBALL Steve Wallace

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ast weekend, the Care 4 Thai Kids Foundation, Phuket Soccer Schools and Thanyapura teamed up to help a group of underprivileged boys from the Mukdahan region in Northeast Thailand to have a special experience through football.

The boys, all aged 11-13, were selected from a series of schools across the area to play in the U14 age group at the 8th Annual Phuket Soccer School (PSS) Tournament under team name, Tonkla Mukdahan.

After leaving their province for the first time and embarking on a 24-hour drive to Phuket, there was a mixture of nerves and excitement among the boys, according to foundation trustee Richard Burack.

Burack, a doctor from London, is one of four medical professionals that visit Northern Thailand to host free medical clinics and educate local residents on health-

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The guest team came placed second in their first tournament together at Thanyapura. Photo: PSS related issues.

The morning after their arrival in Phuket, the boys participated in a training session at Thanyapura with Head Football Coach Steve Wallace, focusing on creating and taking scoring chances. This was the first time they had ever played or trained together, but they gelled quickly.

“I saw from the outset that these boys had some individual ability and loved their football. They were immediately engaged in the finishing activities, were easy to coach and

played with a smile on their faces. Thanks to some great translation skills from Alwin Lias, they understood what I was saying and were able to take some new ideas on board to try out over the weekend.”

Something else new for the boys came after training – a trip to the beach to cool off in the water and to see the sea for the first time.

The question before the tournament from PSS Head Coach Martin Hill was if the boys would be able to compete against more experienced

teams in an older age group.

The answer came quickly as the newly created side defied the odds and raced to four wins and a draw on Saturday (Mar 9), scoring 10 goals in the process.

Tonkla Mukdahan finished the tournament with a very credible second place after tired legs got the better of them in their final group game.

But nothing could take away from a great weekend where they made some new friends through football and memories they will never forget.

SPORT 29

Ferrari outperforms Merc in preseason Continued from page 32 ...been caught out relative to Ferrari, with the two teams opting for divergent models in addressing the changes.

But it would be unfair to say that Mercedes has ceded the lead to the Scuderia, because there’s much to like about Ferrari in 2019.

Apart from the competitive car, new team principal Mattia Binotto – formerly the team’s technical director and responsible for its upswing in form over the past two seasons – is ushering in a new culture of openness to counteract the years of siege mentality instilled by former boss Maurizio Arrivabene.

“The philosophy for next season certainly is try to enjoy [it],” he said at Ferrari’s season launch. “That’s something that we were maybe missing in the past.”

Add to the mix highly rated Ferrari junior Charles Leclerc joining Sebastian Vettel at the senior team in just his sophomore F1 season and there’s no doubting Maranello’s 2019 intent.

But Mercedes hasn’t sat atop Formula One for half a decade by chance. As much

as a change to Ferrari’s philosophical approach and driver roster is expected to pay dividends, it would be foolish in the extreme to write off the reigning titleholder’s ability to bounce back strongly from a difficult preseason.

And while a two-way title fight is a safe bet, Red Bull Racing is refusing to be discounted from the equation, with its lacklustre preseason testing results down more to a series of crashes robbing it of track time than to any car problem.

Equipped with new Honda engines in a deal that will see a close collaboration between the team and its Japanese supplier, and with rising superstar Max Verstappen and new teammate Pierre Gasly in the cockpit, the 2010-14 championship-winning team hopes it’s finally on the road to recovering its fast-fading glories from the turn of the decade.

Whatever the case, when the flag drops, the talk stops, and we have mere days until the competitive order is finally revealed at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 17).

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

That’s how we bowl

Game plans gleam at the season’s final ‘major’ competition BOWLS Robert Knight

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he final ‘major’ competition of the bowls high season, The Champions League Pairs, took place in the searing heat at Kamala Lawn Bowls Club last Saturday (Mar 9) .

Sixteen bowlers entered, which threw up some interesting pairings, but clear favourites were previous singles champions Dot Barker and Ulf (Ue) Egerstaad.

The competition format was based on the UEFA Champions League. Two round robin divisions with the winners of each group facing the second-place team of the other division in a semifinal knockout.

The draw for the divisions created a wide open division A, whilst division B looked on paper to be a tough one.

With two points being awarded for a win and one point for a draw, it was important for teams to note that in the event of a tie on points in a group,

Champions Dean (left) and Rob (right) with the trophy and gold medals. bowl (goal) difference could decide the final league places.

In group A the clear winners, being undefeated and claiming the maximum six points, were recent Phuket Open singles winner Peter Kuschel and Guy Winter.

Claiming second in the group were indoor bowls specialist Gary Raby who is jetting off soon to compete for Spain in the World Indoor Bowls Championship, and Steve Merrel.

Group B was a much tighter affair. With Dean Simmonds and Rob Knight beating Dot and Ue, and Ron Blackwood and Ulf Larsson subsequently beating Rob and Dean, a lot depended on the result of the final group stage game between Dot and Ue, and Ron and Ulf. Dean and Rob were aware that in the event of Dot and Ue beating Ron and Ulf, bowl difference could ultimately become crucial and they not

only had to win their final game against George Sasanow and Kenta Lindberg but by a convincing margin, as going into the final set, they trailed Dot and Ue by two bowls, and Ron and Ulf by three.

Dean and Rob set about their business by whitewashing George and Kenta 15-0 leaving the other two pairs knowing that a win would probably see them through, although even for them, bowl difference could also play a part.

As it turned out, the calculators were not needed as Ron and Ulf continued their fine form on the day by upsetting the pre-tournament favourites Dot and Ue 13-3, and finishing their league campaign undefeated, claiming the maximum six points. Dot and Ue ended the tournament in third place.

So the semi-final knockout line ups were Ron and Ulf versus Gary and Steve, and Guy and Peter faced Dean and Rob. Ron and Ulf continued their fine form by beating Gary and Steve 10-2 whilst in the other game Dean and Rob

continued to improve and ran out comfortable 11-5 winners against Guy and Peter.

The final pitted previous round-robin opponents Ron and Ulf against Dean and Rob. Ironically Dean and Ulf had won the previous year’s Champions League pairs together, but this year having been drawn in different teams, only one of them would lift the trophy.

In the round-robin series Ron and Ulf had beaten Dean and Rob 8-7 and having comprehensively beaten all their other opponents, were supremely confident of picking up the trophy.

Dean and Rob had other ideas and set off with a master plan of long jack selection and strategically placed bowls in covering positions.

Ron and Ulf took the first end by two points but what followed was a steady accumulation of points by Dean and Rob, and with three ends to go, Dean and Rob led by 11-3.

Tactics then came to the fore with Dean and Rob limiting their losses and taking

no risks, as recognised by the crowd, by playing some wonderful covering bowls.

At the last end the score was 11-5 to Dean and Rob with Ron and Ulf needing a score of at least six points out of the available eight to force an extra end. A tough ask, especially as Dean and Rob’s tactics up to now had been superbly astute.

With Ron delivering two short bowls on the last end, that task was to prove even harder.

Dean and Rob kept their composure while Ron and Ulf took four points from the last end which would be insufficient for a win, and they subsequently won the match 11-9.

Dean retained his Champions League pairs title, whilst Ron and Ulf were left perplexed as to how they had been tactically outwitted.

In the bronze medal match, Gary and Steve were comfortable 17-5 winners against Guy and Peter.

The next competition is the end-of-season Winners Takes All scroungers friendly on April 9. All are welcome to enter.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

SPORT 31

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Slump for Spurs opens Europe door for rivals FOOTBALL

A run of four Premier League games without a win has put Tottenham in danger of missing out on the top four. Photo: John Macdougall

Kieran Canning

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s Arsenal played out the final stages of a hugely significant 2-0 victory over Manchester United to propel themselves back into the Premier League top four, cries of “Tottenham Hotspur we’re coming for you” rang out around the Emirates.

A 10-point gap between the north London rivals has been whittled down to one in the space of four games courtesy of defeats for Spurs against Burnley, Chelsea and Southampton.

With eight games of the campaign to go, the fight for automatic Champions League qualification next season looks set to go down to the wire, with Spurs, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea in desperate need of the revenue and prestige it brings for their own reasons.

Only four points separate Tottenham in third and Chelsea in sixth, but the Blues also have a game in hand at home to Brighton, where victory would allow them to move level on points with Arsenal in fourth.

A first domestic defeat for caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last Sunday has interrupted United’s momentum but they remain the form side of the chasing pack since the Norwegian took charge in mid-December – cutting the gap to the top four from 11 points down to two.

Tottenham defied World Cup fatigue, injuries to key players and coped with no new signings and a second season in their temporary home at Wembley for so long that just two weeks ago they

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MAIN SPONSOR

MONTHLY SPONSOR

The overall competition winner will receive a 3 day/2 night stay in a two-bedroom private pool villa including daily breakfast plus a 90-minute spa treatment for two persons at Baba Beach Club Phuket. Total prize value: B130,000 The monthly competition winner for March 2019 will receive a B3,000 voucher to be used on food, beverage and/or fishing at the Chalong Fishing Park.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS

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chris goodhand 15 Griffsbar 15 diggersd 13 dirtynellies 13 djfoli 13

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were still being touted for an unlikely title challenge.

Despite reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League, however, it appears the effects of a long season for a small squad may finally be starting to take hold as after dominating the first 45 minutes against struggling Southampton last Saturday, Spurs imploded after the break to manager Mauricio Pochettino’s ire.

“In the first half we played like the quarter-finals, or the best eight teams in Europe, but in the second half we need to watch the game, analyse, and be critical of ourselves,” said the Argentine, hinting he needs to be backed with funds to improve his squad in the summer, should he remain in charge.

“Maybe we need to understand that it is our limit to be there (fighting for top four). If it is our limit we need to take

some decisions in the future.”

Yet, with the club’s new stadium finally ready, at a reported cost of £1 billion (B41.5bn), the level of investment in the squad will be highly dependent on securing Champions League cash.

Pochettino’s men do have the slight relief of a threeweek break now to regroup, but their next league game is a daunting one away to Liverpool and they also travel to title-chasing Manchester City next month.

Arsenal have felt the brunt of losing Champions League revenue for the past two seasons after 17 consecutive years in Europe’s premier club competition and Unai Emery’s admission in the January transfer window that the Gunners could not afford permanent signings highlighted the importance of not missing out three years in a row.

For Chelsea and United, the outcome of the top-four race could determine who will be in charge of their squads next season.

Maurizio Sarri has endured a stormy first campaign at Stamford Bridge, and Champions League qualification either through the league or by winning the Europa League is seen as the minimum required for the Italian to be handed a second season.

Solskjaer is expected to be given the United job on a permanent basis thanks to his incredible record since taking caretaker charge, particularly after eliminating Paris SaintGermain to reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

However, a failure to round off his run with a top-four finish may give the club’s hierarchy a difficult decision to make, especially if Pochettino can be lured from Tottenham.

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SPORT START STOP Friday 15th Mar Rugby Union 13:30 15:30 15:40 17:40 00:05 02:00 Rugby League 15:45 18:00 Saturday 16th Mar Rugby Union 11:15 13:15 13:35 15:35 20:05 22:00 Rugby Union 19:25 21:30 21:40 23:45 23:55 02:00 Soccer 22:00 00:00 22:00 00:00 22:00 00:00 Soccer 19:15 21:15 00:15 02:15 Motor Racing 12:30 14:30 Cricket 17:50 02:00 Sunday 17th Mar Rugby League 14:10 16:10 Rugby Union 19:10 21:20 Soccer 21:15 23:15 23:30 01:30 Soccer 21:00 23:00 Motor Racing 11:00 12:00 12:00 14:30

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Super XV Super XV Super XV NRL

Chiefs v. Hurricanes Brumbies v. Waratahs Stormers v. Jaguares Roosters v. Rabbitohs

Super XV Super XV Super XV Six Nations Six Nations Six Nations EPL EPL EPL FA Cup - QF2 FA Cup - QF1 Formula 1 ODI5 - Cape Town

Sunwolves v. Reds Highlanders v. Crusaders Lions v. Rebels Italy v. France Wales v. Ireland England v. Scotland Bournemouth v. Newcastle West Ham v. Huddersfield Burnley v. Leicester Watford v. Crystal Palace Swansea v. Man City Qualifying, Melbourne South Africa v. Sri Lanka

NRL Six Nations EPL EPL FA Cup - QF4 Formula 1 Formula 1

Titans v. Raiders England v. Scotland (repeat) Fulham v. Liverpool Everton v. Chelsea Millwall v. Brighton Raceday – Melbourne Australian Grand Prix

Sport

FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

Northern boys’ maiden tour joins PSS > p29

RED ALERT

Australian Grand Prix: Is this finally Ferrari’s year?

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel testing the new car in Montmelo in the outskirts of Barcelona in February. Photo: Lluis Gene

BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

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ercedes has dominated all five years of Formula One’s turbo-hybrid era, winning an incredible 74 of 100 races

since 2014 to claim a quintet of drivers-constructors championship doubles, but emerging from the cold European winter are buds of hope that promise to bloom into a rival title challenge.

Scuderia Ferrari, embarrassingly bested in 2018 after a series of spectacular driver errors and a failure to develop

the car late in the season, performed so convincingly during preseason testing that the sport is daring to whisper about a changing of the guard.

The Italian team wheeled out the quickest car across the eight days of testing, and at Spain’s Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya, a stern all-round test of F1 machinery, the SF90

looked the goods on the road as much as it did on the time sheet.

Mercedes, meanwhile, uncharacteristically struggled.

Its form across the first four days was lukewarm at best as Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas complained of balance issues afflicting the car both over a single lap and during

long-run simulations.

A major upgrade package arrived for the final four days, ameliorating the worst of the problems, but though Hamilton came close to matching Ferrari’s best lap, the W10 haemorrhaged time to its red rival during its race simulation, supporting the theory it’s due to start 2019 on the back foot.

The first culprit likely to be fingered is the late decision to amend the 2019 technical rules last season. Affecting principally the complex front wing, the modified rules robbed cars of downforce, forcing teams to find new ways to generate aerodynamic performance.

Mercedes appears to have...

Continued on page 29

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