19-05-2017

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FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

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Brit boyfriend charged for Sophie’s death

ON THE RUN POLICE HUNT SUSPECTS AFTER B138K SKIMMED FROM THE SAME ATM IN PHUKET A security guard watches over customers using an ATM in front of the Siam Commercial Bank branch in Kathu. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

T

he hunt is on for suspected skimmers after more than a dozen victims reported money missing from their accounts after using the same ATM in Phuket, though police admit the suspects most likely have already fled to Malaysia.

The alarm was raised after 15 people reported unauthorised withdrawals from their accounts after they had all used the same ATM in Phuket.

All 15 victims held accounts at Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and all 15 regularly used an ATM in front of the SCB branch near the Si Kor Market in Kathu.

“We had reports from 16 victims.

One victim lost B900 but the losses ranged up to B63,000 for one person,” Kathu Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Amponwat Sangruang told The Phuket News.

The total amount stolen from the accounts amounted to B138,200, he said.

The initial report was filed with

police last Thursday (May 11). “We have already informed the Siam Commercial Bank branch manager of the incidents. We are investigating the reports and checking CCTV to try to identify and track those responsible,” Col Amponwat confirmed on Monday (May 15).

One additional report noted that a person had noticed an unauthorised withdrawal after the person used a Kasikornbank (KBank) ATM, but Col Amponwat on Wednesday (May 17) dismissed that report as unrelated.

“Many of the victims told police

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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that the funds had disappeared from their bank accounts on the evening and into the night of May 10,” he said.

The money was withdrawn from the accounts via a Government Savings Bank ATM on the Malaysian border in Sadao, in Songkhla Province.

“I believe the perpetrators crossed the border and fled into Malaysia,” Col Amponwat said.

“We are checking CCTV footage from the ATMs. We have also contacted police in Sadao,” he added.

Col Amponwat confirmed that the ATM inspected by police was one of...

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Police charge expat for Brit mum’s death B R I T I S H N AT I O N A L Danny Glass from Margate in Kent, England, has been charged with reckless driving causing the death of his longterm partner, British mum Sophie Emma Rose Anderson.

Ms Anderson was riding pillion when Mr Glass lost control of the scooter they were riding on after he braked suddenly to avoid ramming into the back of a car, that he said had braked suddenly Monday last week (May 8).

Ms Anderson fell onto the road and was run over by an 18-wheeled truck driven

by Nattawoot Kimchue, 30, from Thai Muang in Phang Nga Province.

She was six months pregnant, with Mr Glass as the father.

Ms Anderson was also mother to 5-year-old Shaye, from a previous relationship.

Young Shaye lived with her and Mr Glass in Phuket, but has since been taken to live with his father in Bangkok.

“Both men are being held responsible for the death of Ms Anderson, because both were driving recklessly,” Lt Col Sanit Nookong of Thalang Police station confirmed to The Phuket News on Wednesday (May 17).

“The drivers have already been charged,” he affirmed.

“Right now, the investiga-

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Local magnate blames guard for fight, sucpicious of motives > page 4

Airport investigates Jetstar grounding The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Danny Glas s has been charged for the death of Sophie Anderson, who was pregnant with his child when she was crushed by a truck. Image: Sun Fruit Dan / YouTube tion is not yet closed because we are still waiting for the autopsy to be released. Then they will go to court,” Col Sanit added.

The case echoes an incident in early February in which Australian tourist Thomas Keating, 22, was charged with reckless driving causing death after an accident that resulted in the death of his girlfriend Emily Jayne Collie, 20.

The two crashed their separate jet-skis into each other off Kata Beach in southern Phuket. Ms Collie sustained severe injuries in the crash which later claimed her life.

Mr Keating was handed down a two-year suspended jail sentence and fined B5,000 after pleading guilty to the charge.

The Phuket News

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uthorities at Phuket International Airport are investigating the grounding of a Jetstar flight last Friday night (May 12) that left overheated passengers trapped in the aircraft for two hours without air conditioning.

Five people were removed from the grounded aircraft after fainting due to the heat.

A spokesperson for Airports of Thailand (AoT), which operates, Phuket Airport, told The Phuket News on Monday (May 15), “We have yet to learn many details about the incident, but we can confirm we are investigating it.”

The aircraft was due to take off at 10pm, but soon stopped en route to the runway due to “technical faults”.

The budget airline was blasted on social media for the incident over last weekend.

“Jetstar’s service from Phuket to Melbourne overnight is horrific,” wrote student Claire McAlinden.

“A plane with no power, no air conditioning and a group of Aussies trying their best to understand why it was taking so long. We ended up staying on the tarmac for 2

Authorities are investigating the grounding of the Jetstar flight last Friday night (May 12) that left overheated passengers trapped in the aircraft for two hours without air conditioning. Photo: AFP / file hours. Babies were stripped down to nappies and still no answers from the captain.”

McAlinden said after finally disembarking the aircraft at 12:40am, passengers received an email saying the next flight would be at 4pm on Saturday.

“It took hours for us to be told what to do and where to go. Being told we would have to front the bill for accommodation and travel expenses. Problem after problem after problem. Families with children / little people didn’t get to a hotel until 3:30am,” she wrote.

Another passenger posted that Jetstar allowed the agitated crowd off only after complaints.

“Finally after people continued to scream out to open the doors and one bloke fainted and started tripping out and a teenage girl began to have breathing issues, the decision was made to let passengers off,” he wrote.

A Jetstar spokesman acknowledged the problem and offered refunds for those not wishing to take the later flight.

“We apologise to all customers and thank them for their patience. The combina-

tion of technical issues with the aircraft and a customer needing to get off due to a medical condition meant a lengthy delay to the flight back from Phuket,” he said.

“Our cabin crew tried to make customers as comfortable (as possible), including providing cold water, while engineers were working on the aircraft. We have provided hotel accommodation and meals for all customers.”

The passengers were allocated to reboard the flight at 4pm on Saturday. The passengers arrived back in Melbourne last Saturday night.

Backpacker death deemed ‘accidental’ hanging Skimmers hit ATM, THE BRITISH CORONER has ruled the death of 26-yearold British backpacker Abigail Brown, found hanged by a bedsheet in her holiday accommodation on Phuket on Jan 7, as an accidental “death by misadventure”.

The ruling, reported by UK national newspaper The Mirror on Tuesday (May 16), overturned the conclusion by Chalong Police, who deemed Ms Brown’s death as suicide.

Ms Brown from Plymouth, England, returned alone to her room on Phuket’s famed Muay Thai street Soi Ta-iad in Chalong at 3:20am after an argument with her boyfriend James Brum at the White Room nightclub on Bangla Rd, Patong.

Some three hours later, at 6:20am, Mr Brum returned to

the room to find Ms Brown hanged from the door of the room by a bedsheet.

Although Coroner Samantha Marsh insisted that Miss Brown had put the bedsheets around her neck, she told Portsmouth Coroner’s Court that she did not believe that Ms Brown intended to kill herself, reported The Mirror.

She added that she was aware of the report by the Chalong Police deeming the death as suicide.

“In terms of conclusions, suicide is one option open to me on the evidence that I have heard. In order to record that conclusion I would have to stay to a high standard of proof. I would have to be satisfied beyond all reasonable doubt that Abi intended to take her own life,” Coroner

British backpacker Abigail Brown, 26, was found hanged by a bedsheet in Soi Ta-iad, Chalong, in January.

Photo: Facebook Marsh told the court.

“With what you have told me I am not satisfied that that is what she intended to do. I don’t think suicide is a satisfactory conclusion to record today because I don’t believe that beyond all reasonable doubt that that was what she intended to do.

“From what I have heard I

am going to record a conclusion of misadventure.”

Ms Brown’s mother Jane Rowlands supported the ruling.

“I believe Abi undertook a risk, and that was the risk of putting something around her neck but I don’t believe Abi intended the consequence of what she did,” she said.

“It’s a complete waste of what seemed like a very, very promising, happy life ahead for Abi and James together as parents and you as future grandparents of four boys running around you.”

Mrs Rowland added: “We will always be saddened by the death of our beautiful daughter Abi. There is no one to blame for this moment of folly.”

The Phuket News

make off with B138k Continued from page 1 ...the three in front of the SCB branch near the Si Kor Market.

However, Orannicha Saesue, manager of that SCB branch, said she could not identify exactly which ATM was inspected by police.

“We really don’t know which ATM. We just know the incident happened in this area,” she said on Wednesday.

“Some ATMs are other (people’s) responsibility, not directly (the responsibility) of our branch,” she added.

“We have not dismissed this incident. We have already issued new ATM cards to the victims and the bank returned (the amounts stolen) to them immediately,” Ms Orannitha said.

However, at the time of going to press it was not clear whether footage recorded by CCTV cameras at the bank provided any images helpful to police, or if the cameras were working at all.

“Other details, I don’t know what police have done in their work on this. We have cooperated with them by providing information already,” was all Ms Orannitha was willing to divulge.

“Today (May 17), I received a police request for the victim’s statement information. I will respond to them soon,” she added.

“Our advice to customers is to inform us directly of any such incidents. Our system can track all transactions made,” Ms Orannitha said. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Security ramped up after Pattani blasts

Tanyaluk Sakoot reporter2@classactmedia.co.th

Fake Gov Facebook reported to police A soldier checks a Thai man’s identification papers as he arrives in Phuket on a nighttime bus. Photo: The Phuket News Phuket Checkpoint at Tha Chatchai, at the northern tip of the island.

“This is because officials are conducting more thorough checks,” he said.

Gen Teeraphol noted that police in Phuket had good cooperative relations with Muslim leaders on the island.

“They work with us very well,” he said, adding that by cooperation local Muslim leaders notified police of any newcomers into their communities.

“We also meet with them once a month to share information and exchange reports on our, and their, activities,” Gen Teeraphol added.

Regardless, Gen Teeraphol called on the public to also remain vigilant.

“Phuket is a tourism destination and attracts many tourists. Please keep an eye out for anything suspicious,” he said.

“It is much easier to keep people safe when everyone is aware (of their surroundings) and work together to keep an

Guide, tourists let off for coral swipe A PA I R O F C H I N E SE tourists and their tour guide have been let off with a warning after they were caught returning to Phuket from a day trip to Coral Island with corals stolen from a reef there.

Khanchit Klingklip, head of the local marine conservation group Healthy Reefs Club, reported the “catch and release” of the coral poachers last Wednesday (May 10).

“I was at Chalong Pier and saw two Chinese tourists carrying something bundled in a white cloth. I asked to see inside and found they were carrying specimens of massive coral and staghorn coral, and some shells,” he said.

“The guide who was taking care of the two Chinese tourists said they had just returned from Coral Island, but the guide said he did not know that the two tourists had taken corals and shells from the island,” he added.

“I warned both the guide and tourists, and asked the guide to put the corals back into the water at the end of the pier, Mr Khanchit said.

The removal of corals from Coral Island comes after marine experts have confirmed that mass tourism to Coral Island has killed 75% of the @thephuketnews

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Suthee Keereedet (left) of the Phuket Governor’s Office filing the complaint with Phuket City Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Chana Suthimat.

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he Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police has expressed his concern following the bomb attacks at a Big C Supercentre in Pattani last week, but maintains that security in Phuket remains vigilant.

“I am very concerned about the security situation in Phuket, especially after the bomb attacks in Pattani,” Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen, Phuket’s leading police commander, told The Phuket News last Thursday (May 11).

“We are maintaining our strong coordination in working with other security officials, such as at Phuket International Airport, with the Royal Thai Army and Royal Thai Navy’s Third Naval Area Command (based in Phuket), as well as administration officials,” he said.

Gen Teeraphol pointed out that heightened security checks on vehicles and passengers coming onto the island are causing traffic delays at the

PHUKET NEWS

The two Chinese tourists were let off with a warning after they returned to Phuket from a day trip to Coral Island. reefs there in the past 10 years.

“I want to ask for cooperation from tour guides to warn and pay attention to their tour groups to make sure they do not bring any corals and shells back to shore. It is illegal,” Mr Khanchit said.

“Even if they managed to smuggle them back to shore, they would not be able to smuggle them onto a flight back to their home country,” he added.

Mr Khanchit did not report the incident to the police or the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Phuket office.

He did not name the tour guide or even the tour company that provided the day trip to the island.

The soft warning signified a marked departure from the hardline stance against people

who damage corals and interfere with marine life abruptly enforced earlier this year.

Chinese tourist Huang Yong jia , 35, wa s f i ne d B100,000 after he was caught with two baby Parrotfish in a plastic bottle at Racha Yai Island in January.

In February 53-year-old Russian tourist Olga Smirnova spent two days in police cells because she was unable to raise the B100,000 bail demanded by police after she was arrested just for feeding fish at Racha Yai island.

In both incidents no action was taken against the tour guide or tour operator at all.

A recent online poll by The Phuket News resulted in a call for tourists and guides be responsible in such cases.

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eye out for danger,” he added.

“If anyone sees something that seems to be suspiciously in the wrong place, or suspiciously modified, they should call the police immediately on 191,” Gen Teeraphol said.

The boost in security in Phuket comes as national police and security personnel continue their hunt for the Pattani bombers, whose devastating blasts last Tuesday (May 9) left 61 people, including children, wounded. Three of them were in critical condition.

PH U K ET G OV E R NOR Norraphat Plodthong on Monday (May 15) had a member of his staff file a complaint at Phuket City Police Station about a Facebook page that has been used to impersonate the governor himself.

The complaint was filed after the Facebook page was set up on the night of May 9 with the name “Nopparat Nonthong” but using a profile photo of Gov Norraphat.

The Facebook user who set up the account is then alleged to have requested to be friends with reporters and local administrative officers and tried to convinced them that the person was Gov Norraphat.

The complaint was filed on Monday (May 15) by

Suthee Keereedet, 32, of the Governor’s Office filed the complaint, which was received Phuket City Police Deputy Chief Lt Col Chana Suthimat.

Mr Suthee said, “We believe that the person who has done this looks down on and loathes Gov Norraphat.

“The Facebook user even sent messages to an official from the Srisoonthorn administrative office asking to borrow B25,000 and sent bank account and telephone numbers…

“The person acting as Gov Norraphat has sent messages to others government officials asking to for borrow money and this is why I have been sent to file a report to police,” he said.

The Phuket News

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PHUKET NEWS

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Scion returns fire

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The fire completely destroyed the expat's home office.

Expat’s home blazed by fire A NEW ZEALAND EXPat’s home office at the Permsap Villa estate in Srisoonthorn suffered an estimated B100,000 in damages after an electrical fire broke out in the home last Friday (May 12).

Capt Kraisorn Boonprasop of the Thalang Police arrived at the two-story house after being notified of the fire at 5pm. Two firetrucks were already at the scene to douse the blaze.

“As the fire had broken out on the ground floor, firefighters were able to stop the fire from spreading to the living room. It took about 15 minutes to control the fire,” Capt Kraisorn said.

“The computer desk, television, air conditioning and all other devices were destroyed, they were valued at about B100,000,” he added, but did not specifiy which appliance may have started the fire.

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Chana blames guard, suspicious of motives The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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hana Thavornwongwong, the 57-year-old Phuket scion accused of attacking a security guard in the car park of his company’s offices in Phuket Town late last month, has gone public with his own version of events of the incident.

The public response follows Prasit Pimloi, 44, a security guard for Tilok Co Ltd, filing a complaint with Phuket City Police last week accusing Mr Chana of an unprovoked attack in the car park of Tilok Co Ltd on April 28.

Mr Prasit is a security guard for Tilok Co Ltd, of which Mr Chana is an executive and shareholder.

The incident gained much publicity after CCTV footage of the fight blasted across Thai social media sites.

“The video clip was edited and shared on social media.

There were also many comments that distorted and defamed me which are not true.

I am damaged and hated,” Mr

Chana Thavornwongwong.

Chana said last Wednesday (May 10).

“On April 28 at 10am, I went to Tilok Co Ltd at 601 Phuket Rd in Phuket Town for a big meeting. I parked my vehicle near the meeting room. I looked through the back car mirror and saw Mr Prasit Pimloi quickly walk to the left side of my vehicle and look inside.

“He raised his right hand and walked to the back of my vehicle and came up close with an annoyed face and

said, ‘What’s up? Want to fight with me?’

“So I pushed him with my hands to make him step away from me. He fell down to the ground then he stood up and challenged me and said, ‘You and me… Face to face...’

“After that the fight started as shown in the video clip. In the fight I kicked Mr Prasit’s body with my right shin, which suffered a five-inch long wound. So I think that Mr Prasit was carrying a weapon or something sharp with him.

I tried to protect myself,” Mr Chana said.

“This incident was not normal, there might be something behind it because I and Mr Prasit did not know each other or had ever had a conflict before,” Mr Chana said.

“I did not know where he was working or that he worked at Tilok Co Ltd. I had seen Mr Prasit from a distance when going to meetings at the company, about three times before in April. Almost every time he looked at me,” Mr Chana said ominously.

“Also, the incident took place in the parking area of Tilok Co Ltd, which is a private area not a public area,” he added.

Mr Chana accused a specific Facebook post of publishing false comments.

“Why would a person with that Facebook name take CCTV footage from a company and post it online? I have never known Mr Prasit, there must be something behind this. I have already reported the person involved in this,” he said.

dealer arrested Cable guys arrested for wire thefts Armed after condo car park bust PR MANAGER Natchaya (Nat) Sittiprasert 088 765 5881 pr@classactmedia.co.th

POLICE HAVE ARRESTed three men for stealing more than 80 metres of telecoms cable worth more than B40,000 in Phuket, leaving TOT subscribers in the Pa Khlok area without phone services last week.

The thefts were reported to police by TOT representative Issaren Wongsukkasem.

The first incident saw 35 metres of cable valued at B15,195 cut from along the Paklangship – Baan Para Rd on the night of Sunday, May 7, reported Capt Pichit Thongtor of the Thalang Police.

“Then, on May 8, another 50 metres of cable worth B27,026.05 was stolen in Moo 3 Pa Khlok,” he added.

That, however, was when the thieves came unstuck.

The three culprits were caught on CCTV carrying out the theft just before

Discarded cable casings were found near the workers’ camp.

Photo: Thalang Police

dawn, Capt Pichit explained.

“A pickup can be seen arriving at the scene, with the driver wearing a grey shirt and his passengers wearing blue shirts,” he said “They used a ladder and get up to get the cable, and after cutting it down they put it into the back of the pickup and drove off. They took only 10 minutes,” he said.

Police tracked down the pickup to a nearby worker’s camp of Sompong Engineering and Service, which is

contracted to carry out cable services for True Move.

Police also found discarded cuttings of plastic cable casing near the men’s accommodation.

Officers placed Suriaya Talad, 37; Pisit Neuntao, 43, and Thongluan Prabnok, 32, under arrest and subsequently charged the men for the thefts.

Police are continuing their investigation and have yet to locate the stolen steel cables.

Eakkapop Thongtub

A DRUG BUST I N THE car park of a Phuket Town condo building led to the arrest of an armed dealer in Rassada last weekend.

Maj Ritthichai Chumchuay together with a team of officers from the Phuket Provincial Police apprehended 25-yearold La-Ongdao “Mod” Ruedet, from Phuket, at 10pm last Saturday (May 13).

She was found in possession of 11.48 grams of crystal meth (ya ice) in the car park at Connect Condominium in Phuket Town after police received a tip-off that she was to deliver ya ice to a “customer”.

Pol ic e a l s o a r r e s t e d 20-year-old Sudarat “Fon” Chartsan, again, from Phuket.

She was found in possession of 1.07g ya ice while walking behind La-Ongdao in the car park.

Sudarat confessed that she bought the drugs from

The drug bust in the condo car park led to the arrest of Songtham ‘Tom’ Soipet.

La-Ongdao, said police.

La-Ongdao told police her supplier was 28-year-old Songtham “Tom” Soipet, also from Phuket, reported police.

Officers had Songtham in custody by 11am the next day after he was found in possession of 4.57g of ya ice, a revolver and 16 bullets at his rented room in Rassada.

All three were taken to Phuket City Police Station and charged accordingly.

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PHUKET NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Woman pleas to reclaim B4bn Freedom Beach land Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

The two sea gypsy families will vacate their tin-shack homes. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

Sea gypsies agree to vacate tin shacks AFTER LOSING A SEVENyear legal battle, two sea gypsy families will vacate their tin-clad shacks at the sea gypsy village in Rawai so their homes can be demolished by court order.

The news came at Phuket Provincial Court on Monday last week (May 8) when sea gypsy Arnan Bangjak announced that he and his brother Mahren will be vacating their rented plots in accordance with a Supreme Court order issued last year.

Accompanying Mr Arnan was lawyer Pasit Thavornlamlert, who assisted the sea gypsies with their legal battle.

“The Civil Court, Appeal Court and Supreme Court all approved the demolitions, but none of the courts gave a date for the demolitions,” Mr Pasit said.

“Now that the defendants have agreed to leave their homes, the court has ordered that the surety held against them be returned. The court also ordered that the defendants are not allowed to touch the houses. The defendants have now accepted the order.” he added.

The court-brokered agreement for Mr Arnan and Mr

Mahren to vacate the plots in the heart of the sea gypsy village on Monday followed the Supreme Court on Oct 16 last year upholding previous rulings to demolish the two tin shacks, which serves as homes for dozens of sea gypsies.

The long-running legal battle began in 2009 when brother Suthep and Thawee Mookdee filed an action to Phuket Privincial Court against Mr Arnan and Mr Mahren.

On March 23, 2012, the Phuket Court ordered that the defendants move out from their two houses and that the tin homes be demolished.

The court also ordered Mr Mahren and Mr Arnan to pay B3,000 each in damages, with an additional B1,000 each per month for illegally occupying the premises. They were also ordered to pay B5,000 for the plaintiffs’ legal fees.

The legal battle continued for years and came to a head in February this year when more than 200 other villages massed to prevent a task force of more than 50 officials from demolishing the homes, promting the court-brokered agreement last week.

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Phuket woman has accused two men of swindling her family out two large plots of land near Freedom Beach, recently estimated to be worth B4 billion.

Ms Peet arat “Yupi n” Hootachai, 38, told a press conference at Phuket Merlin Hotel last Friday (May 12) she is the rightful heir to the land, covering about 65 rai, as her deceased mother, Ta Hootachai, was the original owner of the land which her family had occupied since 1942.

Ms Peetarat claimed that two Chanote titles issued for the land, in the names of Ekachai Sae-Iw and Wirot Kongkaew, were obtained fraudulently after a real estate broker offered to assist Mrs Ta in the sale of the land to a third party.

Ms Peetarat’s claim came after a statement in November, 2016, by Royal Forestry Department regional office Director Boonsueb Samakrat that the land was inside a protected forest area and therefore belonged to the government.

The two Chanote titles, at that time both in the name of Eakachai Sae’iew, were also ordered to be deregistered with the authority of Land Department Director-General Apinan Suethanuwong.

“These areas will be returned to national forest.

The Forestry Department on September 8 gave the owner (sic) 30 days to remove four

Peetarat ‘Yupin’ Hootachai, 38, held a press conference to publicly claim her family’s ownership of the two plots of land at Freedom Beach. structures and vacate the area,” Director Boonsueb told The Phuket News in November last year.

According to Ms Peetarat, about 10 years ago, a real estate broker contacted her elderly mother, who had no understanding of property law, and offered to assist her in selling the land. At that time, the value of the land was agreed to be about B150 million – but was recently estimated be worth about B4bn on the open market.

The broker offered to obtain Chanote titles for the land for Ms Ta, in order to increase the land’s attractiveness to potential buyers. Ms Ta agreed to allow the broker to obtain the land deeds on her behalf.

However, in late April

2011, Mrs Ta Hootachai visited the Phuket Land Office after she was notified that Mr Ekachai and Mr Wirot had bought the land, having applied for, and received, two Chanote titles from Phuket Land Office on April 12, 2011.

Mrs Ta never received any money from the real estate broker for the sale.

Ms Peetarat is now requesting the Phuket Land Office to issue a new Chanote in her mother’s name – which presumably would be inherited by her.

She is also claiming B1 million in damages.

“This plea is to ask for justice, and I want the society to know how the two plots were formed. Who is the real owner? The land has not yet been sold to anyone. There

is only a contract for B150 million, but no payment. I will continue to fight to get the land back. But if it does not come back to its rightful owner, it will be returned to the state,” said Ms Peetarat.

In May last year, Watcharin Jetanawanich, Phuket Land Office Chief at the time, confirmed that the Land Department Deputy Director Somwut Saikaew on May 12, 2016 issued an order for two Chanote land titles to be deregistered with the authority of Land Department DirectorGeneral Director-General Apinan Suethanuwong.

Yet, Mr Watcharin last year confirmed that the titles had yet to be officially revoked. News of any action against the officials involved also has yet to be made public.

Driver survives sideways Woman tricked out of close to B1mn slam into power pole

POLICE IN THALANG arrested a 49-year-old man last Sunday (May 14) who was part of a four-man gang who conned a woman out of just under B1 million in a gambling trick after pretending to be interested in buying her house.

The arrest followed a Thai woman, named by police as “Ms A”, filing a report at Thalang Police Station last Saturday (May 13) stating that four Thai men had tricked her out of B1mn.

Ms A told police that at 11am on Friday (May 12) four people acting as property brokers visited her at her house stating that they were interested in buying her home.

“After showing interest

Somchai Inthawong, 49, said he wanted to warn people about other gangs trying to trick people. in buying my property the gang arrived in a Bangkokregistered Honda City when they picked me up from Garden Place Village, in Tambon Thepkrasattri Rd, Thalang.

“However, after picking me up they persuaded me to play the Chinese gambling game Fan-Tan, so we went to a bank in Phuket Town where I withdrew close to

B1mn to gamble with.

“We then went to a rented room in Koh Kaew to play the game and I lost all the money. I also ran up a debt to the four men of B900,000.

“The four men then disappeared,” she said.

After making their investigations police were able to identify one of the suspects as Somchai Inthawong, 49, from Phuket.

Thalang Police Chief Col Sompong Thiparpakul and Deputy Chief Lt Col Weerayuth Sitthirattanakul were able to apprehend him at a property on Soi Permsin in Rassada.

According to police, Somchai confessed during questioning that he and three friends, all from off-Phuket,

defrauded Ms A after they pretended to be interested in buying her property.

After Ms A showed interest in the men buying her property they persuaded her to play Fan-Tan and she lost all her money, police reported.

Somchai said he took B270,000, one of his friends took B250,000 and the other two took B220,000 each, said police.

“Somchai had already served one and a half years in prison for doing seven similar crimes and taking several million baht from people, and since my release I have carried out a further three crimes, the one against Ms A being the most recent,” police quoted Somchai as saying.

RESCUE WORKERS TOOK 15 minutes to cut a man free from his work pickup truck after the vehicle slammed sideways into a power pole in Mai Khao, in northern Phuket, last Thursday afternoon (May 11).

Tha Chatchai Police were notified of the accident, on Thepkrasattri Rd northbound, at 2pm.

T he d r iver, Su m rah n Monthein, 50, from Bangkok, had already been taken to hospital for a broken right leg by the time police arrived.

At the scene was a Ford Ranger pickup truck that had struck the pole sideways on the driver’s side.

The force of the impact had broken the power pole in half.

Lt Col Sarit Butnongsang

Sumrahn Monthein, 50, from Bangkok, survived the highspeed impact, which broke the power pole in half. of the Tha Chatchai Police said police had yet to question Mr Samrahn.

“Witnesses who saw the accident told us that the vehicle was travelling at high speed,” he reported.

“Mr Samrahn will be charged with reckless driving causing damage to public property,” Col Sarit added.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

7

‘Dokmai Jan’ flowers to honour late King HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn officially opened the Peranakannitat Museum in Phuket Town on Wednesday. Photo: PR Dept

HRH visits Phuket

Princess Sirindhorn opens Peranakan Museum The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

H

RH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn landed in Phuket on Wednesday (May 17) for a two-day visit to commemorate the official openings of the Peranakan Phuket Museum and the Hotel Novotel Phuket Phokeethra in Phuket Town, and the Yaowawit Academy in Phang Nga. Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong and accompanying officials welcomed HRH Princess Sirindhorn at the Old

@thephuketnews

Standard Chartered building in Phuket Town, which is now home to the museum showcasing Phuket’s Peranakan traditions and culture.

Present at the occasion were Phuket City Mayor Somjai Suwansupana and Dr Kosol Tang-utai, who is Phuket City Deputy Mayor and the Museum President.

“The ‘Peranakannitat Museum’ was named by HRH Sirindhorn on Nov 30, 2015,” Mayor Somjai explained. (“Nitat” is an archaic “high-level” Thai word meaning “vision”.)

“Inside the museum are ex-

hibitions showing the lives of Peranakan people in Phuket,” she added.

Her Royal Highness unveiled the museum’s name plate and signed a brass plate to officiate the venue’s opening.

While in Phuket Town, HRH Princess Sirindhorn also visited the Hotel Novotel Phuket Phokeethra to officiate the hotel’s re-opening, and was to stay in the hotel overnight.

T he 17- st orey hot el, for decades known as the Thavorn Grand Plaza Hotel, enjoyed a “soft re-opening”

last year after closing for renovations in January 2012.

On Thursday (May 18), Princess Sirindhorn was to travel by helicopter to Phang Nga to officiate the opening of the Yaowawit Academy for underprivileged children, from 8:50am until noon.

She was scheduled to arrive back in Phuket via helicopter in time to attend lunch with Governor Norraphat at his official residence in Phuket Town.

HRH Princess Sirindhorn was to depart Phuket on Thursday afternoon.

SA PH A N H I N, K ETHO Temple and Manik Temple are the three locations in Phuket where people will be able to offer the traditional Dokmai Jan carved wooden flowers as part of the state funeral of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The formal funeral services are scheduled to be held in Bangkok on Oct 25-29, with the cremation to be held on Thursday, Oct 26.

“The Ministry of Interior has ordered every province to prepare locations for people to offer Dokmai Jan for King Bhumibol’s funeral,” Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong said on Monday (May 15).

“In Phuket there will be three places where people can offer Dokmai Jan and they are Saphan Hin in Phuket Town, Ketho Temple in Kathu, and Manik Temple in Thalang.

It was decided to use these three locations as they offer plenty of space to hold such activities,” he said.

The Phuket Institute for Skill Development will select and send two people to Sanam Suea Pa in Bangkok to learn how to make Dokmai Jan on May 20. When they return, these two people will then

Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong announced the locations on Monday. Photo: PR Dept teach staff from educational centres and local administrative offices how to make Dokmai Jan, the skills of which will then be passed on to others, Gov Norraphat explained.

“Local administrative offices will provide the budget for Dokmai Jan materials under a project entitled ‘Making Conferred Dokmai Jan’, and people will be invited to make different kinds of conferred Dokmai Jan; daffodils, roses, cotton roses, lilies, orchids, hibiscus, and sleeping hibiscus.

“We believe that Phuket will make no less than 300,000 Dokmai Jan for the late king’s funeral,” he said.

People are also invited to plant marigolds across the province from Oct 20 in honour of the late king.

Opinion 8

OPINION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

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EDITORIAL

The world is watching us

B

uried in the tourismcritical Mastercard Index 2017 released late last month, for which the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) boasted proudly that Bangkok had retained its position as the “most visited Asia-Pacific destination”, was the fact that Phuket ranked fifth on the same list.

Only the global capital cities of Seoul, Tokyo and the Korean resort island of Jeju separated Phuket from the top spot. That’s ahead of Singapore, Taipei, and yes, Bali, and streaks ahead of regional capital cities Kuala Lumpur and Hanoi.

To put this in perspective, tourism made up 8.5% of AsiaPacifc’s GDP and 8.7% of its total employment in 2016. In absolute terms this translates to US$2.06 trillion and 156.6 million jobs in 2016, making Asia-Pacifc’s tourism industry

the largest in the world by GDP contribution and employment.

In 2015, the Asia-Pacific region made up 24% of the world’s international overnight arrivals and 33% of its international tourism receipts.

It has been the fastest growing region for international tourism since 2005, with South Asia and Southeast Asia the two fastest growing sub-regions at 8.4% and 7.9% respectively.

This is the playing field Phuket is on. This is who our competitors are, and more importantly for island residents, expats and business people, this is the number of people with an interest in all that comes with even landing on the island.

If the powers that be need any reminder of what’s at stake, this is the only thing that should be explained to them when it comes keeping their areas clear of trash, the effects

of mass tourism on our coral reefs, shabby “driver’s license shakedowns” by police to the deadly state of the roads or any other of the myriad maladies plaguing our island.

Phuket is already in a high-stakes game and if our competitors want to gain an advantage, all they have to do is see what problems we fail to fix – and simply not make the same mistakes. They already know the world is watching us and will make their holiday decisions accordingly.

Phuket has been developed at break-neck speed over the past two decades by the sweat of entrepreneurs and the expertise of global tourism and hospitality professionals. These business folk are well aware of what “opportunity cost” means.

For officials, all they need to understand is that “opportunity cost” is the money that never came.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Facebook faces immediate shutdown threat Soi Dog decries government’s outmoded methods of dog control Tributes flow Phuket’s Sophie Anderson Tourist sites around Phuket to close for five months from tomorrow Two women injured as motorbike hits pickup head-on on Patong Hill British tourists held for toy shop theft on Koh Samui Phuket Law: Long-term leases unenforceable Phuket Airport investigates Jetstar grounding Phuket prepares for King Bhumibol’s funeral British Coroner deems Phuket backpacker hanging ‘accidental’

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY Caveat emptor

Re: Phuket Law: Long-term leases unenforceable, again Thai law provides for 30 years maximum on a residential lease. Period. Plenty of “lawyers” made lots of moolah writing up fancy leases 30++ which were simply fraudulent and really the Land Dept should have refused to register them.

Now the leases are coming up for their second terms and investors are finding out foreigners calling themselves “counselors”, but acting as lawyers, (which btw, is an occupation reserved for Thais) are and were under no professional obligation to be honest. They have no license to hold them accountable. They conned ya. Amazing Thailand.

Christy Sweet Been there. Been burned.

You cannot be protected by whatever the best and most honest lawyere advises you to do. Why? Because Thai law does not operate by establishing legal precedents. Meaning that the courts can change the law, retroactively. This needs to be shared around the world.

Once Burned

Why do people get taken in by these dubious methods to get around the law here?

The law is 30 years and that is that. Now they are relying on the goodwill of the leasor (possibly a new legal entity) to let them remain in their home. Good luck with that.

The best one could expect will be a hefty fee for a new legal 30-year lease. This should be the final nail in the coffin for the vastly inflated property prices here, but it won’t be, there are more lambs arriving to the slaughter daily.

Caveat Emptor.

Andy ...................................................

Sustainable growth

Re: Phuket Opinion: Think before you clean Couldn’t agree more, another excellent article by The Phuket News. Come on Phuket, let’s have some sustainable planning please. This is about our future as a community and how we will continue to grow revenues from sustainable tourism.

Discover Thainess ...................................................

Glass houses

Re: Ride for love: Phuket

locals call for decency after Russian couple caught in the act in the back of tuktuk Yeah... the supreme peddler of underground entertainment in one of the sex capitals of the world is going to pop up and wag his finger in foreigners faces and lecture them on proper behavior. Bah! Ben Pendejo ...................................................

Empty promises

Re: Phuket Surin Beach buildings destroyed “In one year Phuket must transform it into Rajabhakti Park, a place of education for the future,” he said. “It’s one year (May 13, 2017) and nothing has been done.

Sam Hayman ...................................................

Please ride safe

Re: Tributes flow Phuket’s Sophie Anderson Thailand’s roads are statistically the second most deadly in the world (in the world) and most fatalities here involve motorbikes. In fact it can be said this this is the most dangerous country in which to ride one.

Please be careful.

Only travel by motorbike

if you absolutely have to, and make sure whoever is driving is experienced and capable enough, especially if you plan on sharing a bike with someone else. Don’t assume anything is okay because locals do it.

They’ve been riding these machines all their lives and still die in droves every day.

If you’re a Westerner then you might weigh as much as two Asians, so if you’re sharing a motorbike you might be four times as heavy as two locals making your bike much more difficult to control and virtually impossible to recover if it starts to topple.

Be sensible. stay left where possible. Try to move at the same speed as the other traffic on the road. Don’t move left or right before checking in your mirrors, looking over your shoulder, and indicating. Expect the unexpected from other road users and be prepared to slow down and stop at any time.

If in doubt, indicate left, slow down and stop. Please, Thailand gets enough negative publicity in the international press, don’t let the next horror story be about you.

Captain Jack 69

Have an opinion? Comment on stories at thephuketnews.com thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

THAILAND NEWS

9

Bomb blast startles NCPO Government wary of unrest before third anniversary of coup BANGKOK Bangkok Post

S

ecurity organisations have been instructed to step up security measures, including inspecting security cameras installed in public areas, especially in large cities, ahead of the third anniversary of the regime seizing power, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said on Tuesday (May 16).

The move follows a bomb blast near Sanam Luang on Monday night (May 15).

“As the third anniversary of the government and the National Council for Peace and Order draws near, certain groups are attempting to discredit the government and the NCPO,” Gen Prawit said after Tuesday’s cabinet meeting.

He said certain groups were waiting for the right time to trigger unrest, adding that these groups were, however, small and consisted only of one or two people.

The authorities were moni-

Bangkok police chief Sanit Mahathavorn, holding the PVC ‘explosive’ at the scene of the blast, said Monday it was no bomb. He changed his mind after the top security chief, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, said that it was an explosive. Photo: Apichart Jinakul toring these groups, but he couldn’t reveal any further information about them at this point, said Gen Prawit.

Gen Prawit was speaking following Monday night’s explosion in front of the National Theatre near Sanam Luang, in which two women were slightly injured.

The police investigation team probing the incident, meanwhile, found a key piece

of evidence identified as an “IC timer”, which suggested the explosion was linked to the April 5 explosion in front of the old Government Lottery Office (GLO) which also injured two people, according to an informed source.

The investigation team surmised from the IC timer that the person behind Monday’s incident and the April 5 blast is likely the same person, and

Vultures are on the brink of extinction in Thailand, with only seven of the rare birds at Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. Photo: Prasit Tangprasert

Korat zoo breeding vultures to save them from extinction NAKHON RATCHASIMA ZOO K EEPERS HAVE begun a program to breed vultures and return them to their natural habitat, with the species on the verge of extinction in Thailand.

Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo official Prasert Chanklang said on Wednesday (May 17) that vultures have disappeared from the wild in Thailand due to changing geographic conditions becoming unfavourable @thephuketnews

for them. Use of pesticides and chemicals on farmland also drove them away.

Now, the species is to be seen only in zoos. Nakhon Ratchasima zoo has seven vultures – three males and four females, he said.

The zoo is trying to breed the large birds, with three pairs. One pair was seen building a nest, good news meaning that the birds were preparing to mate. Zoo staff were closely monitoring their behaviour. If the pair do mate and lay eggs it would be the

first time the rare birds have been successfully bred in Thailand.

If the breeding program is successful, the vultures will eventually be released into their natural habitat, Mr Prasert said.

Male vultures have black body plumage and females white, with red necks and feet. They take three years to mature, when they stand about 150 centimetres tall and weigh 3.7 to 5.4 kilograms, he said.

Bangkok Post

has exceptional skills in bomb making, said the same source.

The bomb in Monday’s incident was considerably smaller than the one in the April 5 blast, said the source, adding this was possibly because the bomb maker this time intended for as much evidence as possible to be destroyed in the explosion.

This explained why the police didn’t find any trace of

explosives in their preliminary investigation of Monday’s explosion, said the source.

Not even the material that is usually wrapped around the explosive remained after the blast, the source said.

The source also said the PVC pipe pole supporting the board displaying the layout plan of Sanam Luang broke most likely because the bomb had been planted near the pole.

Under the circumstances, the investigation team surmised that the attacker only intended to stir up unrest, but did not aim to cause any deaths, said the source.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha reportedly instructed his deputy, Gen Prawit and the NCPO to speed up the investigation into Monday’s incident.

“If it’s found to be an attempt to trigger panic, then the culprits must be brought to justice,” said Gen Prayut.

“Please don’t panic. The authorities are ramping up their work to figure out what caused the explosion while at the same time working to ensure public security,” he said.

On Monday, Chana Songkhram police were alerted to the explosion at around 9pm and an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team was sent to examine the blast scene.

The two victims were identified as Chanphen Wutthiekphaibun, 54, and Kanchana Bunchip, 38, who suffered light injuries caused by PVC shrapnel along with ringing in their ears.

They were given first aid at a nearby tent where army medical staff help visitors to Sanam Luang.

Ms Kanchana said she was waiting for a bus with about 10 other people when the explosion occurred, sending white smoke billowing up through nearby trees.

She said she had just been to the Grand Palace to pay her respects to His Majesty the late King.

Following Monday’s incident, deputy national police chief Pol Gen Srivara Ransibrahmanakul said he had ordered the Metropolitan Police Bureau to check security cameras installed near the blast site.

10 THAILAND NEWS

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FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Brits held for shop theft on Koh Samui SURAT THANI

The Narcotics Suppression Bureau displays the drugs seized from former policemen. Photo: Apichit Jinakul

Ex-cops caught with 1.2mn meth pills, ton of ganja SARABURI TWO FORMER POLICEmen have been arrested with their gang members while trafficking methamphetamine pills (ya bah) and marijuana to southern provinces, police said on Monday (May 15).

The Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) captured Prayad Phola, 42, a former police sergeant major officer of Phone Phisai Police Station in Nong Khai, and Mongkol Phumpipat, 51, a former police senior sergeant major officer of the

Ubonrat Police in Khon Kaen, on Saturday (May 13) with two other men on a road in Ban Mo district in Saraburi.

Police seized 1.2 million ya bah pills and 1,100 bars of ganja weighing 1.1 tons inside a car during the arrest.

The seized drugs were shown during a briefing for the press on Monday. The NSB said the arrest followed a tip-off that traffickers would use a white pickup truck to deliver the drugs from Laos to the southern border region.

Bangkok Post

Bangkok Post

F

our British nationals have been arrested and charged with the theft of goods worth about B50,000 from a toy shop on Koh Samui.

Police seized the four men at a seaside resort in Bophut, in Koh Samui district, on Monday (May 15).

They also seized stolen items, including an aerial drone, a game disk, an iPhone charger and a radio-controlled car, worth about B50,000 in total, police said.

The goods were reported stolen from a toy shop in Mae Nam around 9pm on Sunday (May 14) by four men who fled in a white Fortuner car.

They were filmed by a security camera inside the shop.

The four tourists admitted to having stolen the items, according to police, and were charged with theft.

They were identified as Chace Kylen Rudy, 21, Korri Nathaniel George, 27, Hilton Mhasvi, 20, and Saul James

Four British nationals, aged between 20 and 27, placed under arrest on theft charges at a luxury resort on Koh Samui. Photo: Supapong Chaolan Ahmed, 20.

While police were still questioning them, an employee at another hotel arrived at the resort and accused the four tourists of failing to pay a food and drinks bill of B69,000.

He told police the tourists had checked into two rooms for three nights and paid the B60,000 cost via an agency.

On Sunday night they had ordered meals and drinks, in-

cluding foreign whisky priced at B29,000 a bottle.

Afterwards, one of them had paid the B69,000 bill with a credit card, but the payment failed. The tourists then said they would pay the bill on Monday, but instead fled the hotel on Sunday night.

After negotiations, the suspects agreed to pay the bill.

They were held in police custody for legal action.

According to Thai media reports, the men tried unsuccessfully to bribe the arresting officers.

The cost of the rooms at the luxury resort where they were caught was reported to be B35,000 a night. They had booked the room for five days, but were arrested and taken away. The card used to pay the food and drinks bill was also reported to be fake.

Suthin Kayachart displays bunches of seedless grapes in his vineyard in Huai Yot district, Trang, on Tuesday. Photo: Methee Muangkaew

A toast for South’s first vineyard TRANG A LOCAL FARMER HAS transformed part of his rubber plantation into an organic vineyard – a first in Thailand’s South – and his success is encouraging others to follow suit.

Nine months ago, 44-year-old farmer Suthin Kayachart from Pak Khom in Trang, decided to plant grapevines on a quarter rai (about 400 square metres) of his 10-rai rubber plantation – even as other southern farm-

ers never followed through on the chance to capitalise on the hot, wet climate.

Mr Kayachart planted five strains of grapevines in greenhouses, and soon harvested a 60 kilogram yield that sold for up to B250 per kilogramme. He also sold cuttings at B250 apiece.

With spirits raised by the quick results, his family is now expanding the vineyard to cover one rai of farmland, and hopes to harvest a tonne of grapes.

Mr Kayachart’s achievement has not gone unnoticed.

His family is now welcoming about 1,000 people a day, including tourists and farmers – both from nearby provinces and even as far away as Thailand’s North – eager to learn the recipe of his success.

Mr Suthin has developed techniques to increase productivity, and uses organic fertilizers and pesticides.

Other farmers have placed more orders for cuttings than Mr Suthin can fill – seeing the economic potential of turning rubber into wine.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

ASIA NEWS 11

The Laos Connection

Mr X and the cartels hooking Southeast Asia on ya bah pills LAOS AFP

T

he downfall of millionaire “Mr X”, long shielded by cash and contacts in Laos, has highlighted the role of the secretive, communist country in showering pills across Southeast Asia.

Allegedly a key figure among gangs buying drugs from Myanmar’s meth labs, Laotian Xaysana Keophimpha – dubbed “Mr X” – is believed to have used his graft-riddled country to shuttle narcotics south, first through Thailand then onto Malaysia.

The heavy-set 42-yearold was arrested by armed Thai police on January 19 at Bangkok’s main airport after arriving from Phuket, while en route to Laos, where he lived freely, revelling in a lifestyle of celebrity parties and supercars.

He denies charges of drug possession and smuggling.

But subsequent police operations have turned up several more men accused of running drugs through Laos, an opaque country whose role in the regional narcotics trade is gradually emerging.

They are the suspected middlemen of the “Golden Triangle”, shifting meth pills, “ice” (crystal meth) and heroin from the world’s second-largest drug producing zone to a regional market.

Among the accused is Xaysana’s friend Sisouk Daoheoung – a minor Laos celebrity with a penchant for thoroughbred horses and a shared devotion to fast cars and fancy holidays flaunted on social media.

If police are right, their ostentation in one of Asia’s poorest countries was funded by smuggling highly-addictive caffeine-laced methamphetamine pills – better known as ya bah or “crazy drug” – and ya ice (crystal meth).

“From Xaysana’s phone and

Xaysana Keophimpa, allegedly a key figure among gangs buying drugs from Myanmar’s meth labs, arriving at a criminal court in Bangkok. Photo: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP Facebook records it was clear he and Sisouk are friends... their (drug) groups are connected,” Thai Police Maj Gen Supakit Srijantranon said last week.

At $8 (B276) a pop in Thailand, the best ya bah pills rise in price the further they move from source, bringing extraordinary rewards to the traffickers.

Stamped with a distinctive “WY”, the pink and green pills of the Myanmar drug labs are supercharging everyone from Malaysian farm hands to Bangkok’s “Hi-So” (high society) party crowd.

Each year regional seizures break records, according to the UN’s crime agency.

That points to better law enforcement, they say, but it also show that the cartels can ramp up production at will to cover losses.

The highest-quality pills (15-20% meth purity) come from the factories of the North and South Wa – armed ethnic groups marshalling a self-governing state on the MyanmarChina border – and by the Lahu hill tribe.

Poor, corrupt and bordering

Thai law enforcement officers stand behind packages of ‘ya ice’, and ketamine during a press conference at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board in Bangkok.

Photo: Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP

@thephuketnews

five countries, Laos makes for an ideal transit route to the rest of Southeast Asia.

Drugs are shifted across the Mekong river into Thailand then onto Malaysia and beyond.

Thailand is being hit hard by the trade.

Between October last year and April, Thailand seized 74 million ya bah pills, according to the kingdom’s Narcotics Control Board (NCB), as well as two tonnes of ya ice and 320 kilograms of heroin.

Official estimates say the kingdom has around 1.3mn addicts, with drug convictions accounting for the bulk of

Thailand’s prison population of 290,000 – the 10th highest incarceration rate in the world.

“Drugs are destroying everything. They affect the security of our country, our society and people,” NCB Secretary-General Sirinya Sitdhichai said.

Cops are fighting back and say they have battered three major Laos-linked drug networks, confiscating tens of millions of dollars of assets including hotels, cars, cash and even a horse riding school in Vientiane.

They are still hunting a fourth group led by Usman

Salameang, a Thai believed to be holed up in Laos, wanted for moving drugs through Thailand’s violent border area into Malaysia.

“He is the only big boss we are still trying to arrest,” Sirinya said.

Historically, communist Laos has been reluctant to admit it has a drug problem.

But under Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith the country is keen to show it is flushing out criminals and corrupt officials.

The recent arrests are part of his get-tough message to the drug gangs.

Last year Laos authorities reeled in a record 144kg of ya ice and nearly 21mn ya bah pills.

The once toothless Lao National Commission for Drug Control and Supervision (LCDC), has been beefed up under the control of the Ministry of Public Security.

The fall of Xaysana and co. is being bundled up as victory for intelligence-sharing between Laos and Thailand.

But with many Western embassies still unable to post specialist narcotics police in Laos it is hard to get facts on the country’s suspected role as a haven for drug producers.

The LCDC did not respond to requests for comment.

And while Laos authorities sweep up mid-ranking henchmen they do not touch “the major organised crime behind significant production and trafficking,” according to Jeremy Douglas of the UNODC. Questions remain over how high-profile suspects could have operated beyond the law for so long.

One reason for that impunity is their aversion to publicity and violence – in contrast to their Latin American peers – a Western drug enforcement official said, requesting anonymity.

They live by a maxim of “Don’t bring attention to your operations. You work in silence, you work in the dark.”

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

‘Get back on board!’

Cruise ship captain said it was too dark to return to sinking ship ITALY AFP

H

e will go down in history as the captain who refused to return aboard the sinking Costa Concordia, saying it was too dark to help save lives in a tragedy that killed 32 people.

Long before Italy’s top court sealed his fate last Friday (May 12) by upholding on appeal a 16-year jail term, Ray-Ban-wearing Francesco Schettino, now 56, had been marked as the villain of the piece, dubbed “Captain Coward” by the media for abandoning ship.

As terrified passengers threw themselves off the tilting cruise liner into the freezing waters after it hit an outcrop off the Tuscan island of Giglio on January 13, 2012, Schettino spent most of the night-time evacuation on a rock.

He would later claim he fell into a lifeboat when the ship rolled and was carried ashore against his will.

“He looked like a beaten

Costa Concordia Captain Francesco Schettino seen here standing during his trial in a theatre in Grosseto in December 2014. |Photo: Jiji/AFP dog, cold and scared,” said a taxi-driver who saw him.

Livorno port official Gregorio De Falco was hailed as a hero after a transcript emerged of him demanding the captain return to ship.

“Get on the ship and tell me how many people there are and what is happening onboard. Is that clear?” he is heard saying.

When Schettino resists, he

warns: “You may have managed to save yourself but there, it will really go badly... I will create a lot of trouble for you.

Get on board, for f**k’s sake!”

“Captain, I’m begging you,” Schettino says, to which De Falco replies: “Go... There are already bodies, Schettino.”

“How many are there?” he asks.

“You are the one who is supposed to tell me how many,

damn it!” De Falco cries.

“But do you realise that it is dark and we can’t see anything?” Schettino asks, leaving an incredulous De Falco to wonder: “What do you want to do, Schettino?

Go home? It is dark so you want to go home?”

Schettino, who would later admit to recklessly ordering a sail-by “salute” near the island, did not return to the ship to run

the rescue operations, which went on until 6am.

The conversation was seen in Italy as an allegory of the country’s “two souls”; on one side the “hair-creamed godfather used to breaking the rules”, on the other the military hero with rigorous ethics.

Despite discovering the crash had torn a huge hole in the liner, Schettino delayed sounding the alarm by over an hour, by which point the lifeboats on one side of the liner were unusable.

As he sat on his rock, the ship’s purser and onboard doctor saved dozens of lives, with even the island’s deputy mayor climbing on board the sinking giant to help rescue efforts.

Born into a seafaring family in Castellammare di Stabia near Naples, Schettino was hired by Costa Crociere in 2002 and enjoyed a reputation as a ladies’ man, hosting lavish dinners for glamorous guests at his table, according to crew members.

He was entertaining a

blonde Moldovan woman – who was not on the official passenger list – in the moments before the crash.

During the trial he was ordered to stay within the boundaries of his hometown of Meta di Sorrento but sparked the anger of victims’ relatives by being spotted sunning himself on a friend’s yacht.

He is separated from his wife and has reportedly been living alone with a dog given to him by his daughter.

In 2015 he published a 600-page book on the disaster, called “The Truth Submerged”, which he dedicated to those who died.

According to the journalist who helped him write the book, he said “the only mistake I made was not dying too that night”.

But after last Friday’s verdict, the captain accepted his fate.

“He said ‘I trust in the justice system, the verdict must be respected. I’m handing myself in right now’,” lawyer Saverio Senese said, after speaking to Schettino by telephone.

‘No regret’ mooning at Eurovision UKRAINE A UKRAINIAN PRANKster told a court on Monday (May 15) that he didn’t regret mooning the audience during the live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest final in Kiev.

Vitaliy Sediuk, 28, jumped onto the stage with an Australian flag wrapped around his shoulders, dropped his trousers and wiggled his bare bottom at the audience during last Saturday night’s (May 13) performance by last year’s winner of the contest, Ukrainian singer Jamala.

“I don’t regret it,” said Sediuk, who has been known to ambush celebrities.

“I don’t have anything against Eurovision. This time I just wanted to do something that would be remembered.”

The Kiev court on Monday ordered the confiscation of Sediuk’s travel documents and imposed restrictions on his movements as an investigation into the incident continues.

A security guard tackled Sediuk off the stage in last Saturday night’s incident, and the prankster later resisted arrest by police and was placed in detention for 72 hours, interior

Prankster Vitaliy Sediuk has a long history of high-profile stunts before his Eurovision moon. Photo: Ethan Miller/AFP minister Arsen Avakov said on Sunday (May 14).

Avakov said Sediuk’s offence fell under legislation against hooliganism, which in Ukraine can carry up to five years in prison.

“The country’s embarrassment can practice his ‘hobby’ in a prison cell at a temporary detention centre,” Avakov wrote on Sunday on his Facebook page.

The contest’s organising committee in Ukraine slammed Sediuk’s behaviour as “inadmissible” and assured that the “highest level of security” had been observed during the final.

“We are outraged and in no way support such provocations”, Pavlo Grytsak, the executive producer of this year’s contest, said in a statement.

“The offender should be held responsible for what he did.”

In September, Sediuk tried to kiss the bottom of US reality TV star Kim Kardashian as she was walking into a Paris restaurant. Her bodyguard pinned him to the ground before he managed to do so.

Portuguese crooner Salvador Sobral, who suffers from a serious heart condition, triumphed in this year’s edition of Eurovision with the melancholy ballad “Amar Pelos Dois”.

Ukraine was hosting Eurovision amid an ongoing armed conflict with pro-Russian rebels in the country’s industrial east that has now killed more than 10,000.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Big guns come out to play

Simpson Marine, Sanlorenzo spur superyacht sales in Asia MARINE The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

P

remier yacht dealership company Simpson Marine, based at Ao Po Grand Marina on Phuket’s east coast, is bringing some of biggest and best superyachts on the market to Asia with Sanlorenzo, builders of some of the most finely wrought superyachts in the world, in a partnership that is clearly working well.

Since Simpson Marine joined forces with Sanlorenzo in mid-2015, the Southeast Asia region has become home to a Sanlorenzo SL96, an SL106, a 40Alloy, a 46Steel and a 460EXP with a helideck and an extended water toys platform.

To note, the Sanlorenzo 78 will arrive in Hong Kong this month. The SL78 will be the first in Asia, after making her world premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2016.

This latest sale coincides with the establishment of Simpson Superyachts as a separate business division within the Simpson Marine Group. The superyacht division focuses on developing

The Sanlorenzo 52Steel ‘Seven Sins’ will be on display at the Monaco Yacht Show in September. the sales, management and charter of superyachts and is managed by the newly appointed General Manager for Simpson Superyachts, Joris Neven.

“The Superyacht market is now more active in Asia and the regular sales of the Sanlorenzo yachts and superyachts within the Simpson Marine group confirm this growing trend,” Simpson Marine reported.

Founded in 1984, Simpson

Marine employs over 100 professional staff and has a well-established sales and service network across Asia with 17 offices spread within Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.

The network is bringing to the fore in Asia the expanding range of Sanlorenzo superyachts. In March, Sanlorenzo launched their biggest build to date, the Sanlorenzo 52Steel, Seven Sins.

This arrival in the highly exclusive “50m+ Club” underlines Sanlorenzo’s position among the finest yacht builders in the world, and is a significant marker in the ongoing development of the brand. Seven Sins will be on display at the Monaco Yacht Show in September.

In February alone, Sanlorenzo also launched an SL86, an SL96 and an SD126 – just under 500-feet of superyachts all told.

Also of note is that 80% of Sanlorenzo customers are repeat clients.

“It is the infinite attention to detail in every single Sanlorenzo yacht that sets the brand apart,” says Mike Simpson, Founder and CEO of Simpson Marine.

“These beautifully crafted yachts are for nautical connoisseurs. They are for discerning boat owners who appreciate understated elegance and recognise the ultimate in quality – not just where you can see it, but all the way through the design, the engineering, the construction and the finish, from stem to stern. The obsessive attention to detail is there all the way through the range from the smallest to the biggest yacht.”

Sanlorenzo yachts are entirely bespoke, which appeals strongly to Asian buyers. They are designed to incorporate the client’s wishes into every line of every yacht.

The owners of the SL78 coming to Hong Kong (name to be confirmed) decided to purchase their own Sanlorenzo yacht after visiting the Sanlorenzo SL106 based at Gold Coast Marina. The owners worked closely with

the Italian shipyard to fit her, including finishing in a yellow marble with Asian-themed wall upholsteries and stylish décor based on a red-and-gold colour theme.

Sanlorenzo prides itself as a company steeped in a long tradition of excellence, and operates on rock-solid financials. Since its founding in 1958, the company has built and launched over 750 boats, with 30 motoryachts delivered in 2016 alone, making it a very profitable year with a turnover of more than €300m (B11.38 billion).

Owner Massimo Perotti acquired Sanlorenzo just 12 years ago, and has taken the name from strength to strength.

“First, I had to prove that I was worthy of the brand,” he says. “Now, with a full order book, 40 yachts presently ‘in build’, and 2016 net profits in excess of €10mn (B379.37mn), clearly we are going from strength to strength.”

Mr Perotti adds, “2016 ended with the launch of the ‘I’, the 11th SD112 to be built, made to measure, according to the requests and style of her owner, like every one of our yachts since 1958.”

Outrigger finance team win accolade FINANCE

Boon Yongsakul (centre), Chairman of Boat Pattana Co Ltd, has been appointed Chairman of the Phuket Real Estate Association (P-REA).

Boat Lagoon’s ‘Khun Boon’ elected P-REA Chairman PROPERTY PHUKET’S RENOWNED businessman Boon Yongsakul, Chairman of Boat Pattana Co Ltd, has been appointed Chairman of the Phuket Real Estate Association (P-REA).

The appointment came at the association’s annual general conference, held at @thephuketnews

Phuket Boat Lagoon’s White House, on May 8.

The association held its election after a keynote presentation by Prof Lertmongkol on the topic “Turning risk into reward with land taxes and buildings”.

Mr Boon replaces Thanusak Puengdet, whose term has ended.

“I am honoured to accept and entrusted with such

great privilege. I am ready to work with the new committee and equally to learn from the well-trusted team,” Mr Boon said.

“I plan to continue the great works by the former Chairman, by reaching out to the members and by partnering with more foreign investors, for the benefit of the island.”

The Phuket News

THE FINANCE TEAM AT the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort has been recognised for “Exceptional Work by a Team” from Outrigger Enterprises Group. The good news came during the Outrigger Po’okela Excellence in Leadership Awards held in Honolulu in late April.

The awards, covering all 37 Outrigger and affiliated

properties in six countries, recognised exceptional employees, teams and properties that have made remarkable contributions to the success of Outrigger.

“Our local finance team on site in Bang Tao in Phuket do a terrific job,” said Tony Pedroni, the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort General Manager who was in Hawaii for the awards ceremony and the Outrigger global leadership conference.

“The finance team’s patience, attention to detail and responsive attitude to new challenges have been an indispensable part of our success in Phuket.”

The Po’okela Awards are designed for Outrigger Enterprises Group to express appreciation for its team members for their accomplishments, to honour excellence and to celebrate the embodiment of The Outrigger Way. The Phuket News

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

China travel rebounds TOURISM

TTR WEEKLY

T

he Kasikorn Research Centre estimates Chinese tourist arrivals to Thailand will rebound in the second half of this year, resulting in a full-year’s growth of 5% to 7.5%.

The bank’s think-tank unit said Thailand’s Chinese tourist market is making adjustments following last year’s ban on “zero-dollar tours”.

Du r ing the f irst fou r months of this year, the number of Chinese tourist arrivals to Thailand shrank 7.4% year-on-year to 3.19 million, but that was still better than the contraction of 20.7% year-on-year reported for the last quarter of 2016, when 1.44mn Chinese tourists visited the country, the research centre said.

“However, it is expected numbers will gradually increase over the remainder of the year, thanks to external factors.”

The centre cited: “Over the short term, this inbound tourism market will be sup-

A Chinese mother and child enjoy the beach in Phuket.

Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot ported by the resumption of marketing efforts by Chinese tour operators in Thailand, while problems between China and South Korea that have undermined Chinese tourist arrivals will continue to see tourists go elsewhere.”

The research centre es-

timates that the number of Chinese holiday makers in Thailand will rise perhaps 5% to 7.5% – to 9.2 to 9.4mn visitors – by this year end, versus the 10.3% growth recorded for 2016.

“The increase should become apparent during the

second half of this year, which is the high season for Chinese tourists during their school and National Day holidays (in October). That uplift percentage growth would be larger due to a low growth rate during the last quarter of 2016,” it said.

However, there are several challenges including heightened global competition in tourism and changing travel behaviour among Chinese tourists.

Thailand’s receipts from Chinese tourists should reach up to B480 billion in 2017,

which would be 7% to 9.4% higher year-on-year, versus the 15.2% growth reported for 2016, it added.

The bank think-tank unit conducted a survey of 400 Chinese travellers asking them if they agreed with the crackdown and also to identify travel trends. The survey was undertaken from January 1-15 at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, the country’s main gateways.

According to the survey, Chinese tourists visiting Thailand showed that some 83% agreed with the country’s efforts to eliminate “zero dollar” tours, citing that it will improve tour quality.

In addition, 98% of the respondents considered Thailand to be their top holiday destination in Asia, and 65% said that they will visit Thailand again on their own rather than with package tours.

Kasikorn Research Centre is a subsidiary company of Kasikorn Bank, which conducts tourism and business research mainly on Thailand’s economy including tourism with reliable recommendations and indicators on business prospects.

AoT targets outsourcing firms AIRLINES THE AIRPORTS OF THAIland (AoT) plans to set up two subsidiaries to boost service efficiency and deal with security and ground support equipment services, to ward off problems caused by outsourcing firms.

AoT president Nitinai Sirisamatthakarn said the AoT board had launched a policy not to extend contracts for outsourcing firms which handle the AoT’s key operations.

These companies were found to have caused several problems, which affected the AoT’s operations, ranging from strikes carried out by security workers calling for a pay rise, to problems of staff driving passenger bridges into aeroplanes, and losing passengers’ luggage.

The AoT will establish a firm to deal with security services and another with ground support equipment services, including driving passenger bridges and handling baggage, Mr Nitinai said.

The two subsidiaries will be registered in July this year, he said.

Later, the firms will un-

Airports of Thailand is dismissing its security and ground support contractors and will form new companies to handle both tasks itself. Photos: Bangkok Post, Thaigroundservers dergo fundraising and set up their own boards, Mr Nitinai said.

The one handling security services could start working first as firms outsourced to deal with security at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports as well as their duty free zones will have their concessions expire in September, 2019, Mr Nitinai said.

“It is likely the firm needs to hire more than 1,000 security workers at Suvarnabhumi airport,” Mr Nitinai said, adding up to 2,000 workers could be needed for all the airports.

Referring to the baggage handling at Suvarnabhumi airport, Mr Nitinai said Thai

Airways International Plc and Bangkok Flight Services Co are dealing with the matter and the AoT still has no plan to suspend their contracts.

But the AoT’s subsidiary would step in to become the third player in the service.

The AoT, however, will revoke contracts of the concessionaires found to commit breaches of contracts, and they can be replaced by the AoT’s subsidiary right away, he said.

“There are many wrongdoings occurring,” Mr Nitinai said, adding any outsourcing firms which disobey the contracts are at risk of being dismissed.

Bangkok Post thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Students unite to save mangroves and corals

16

Iconic Boathouse to get total renovation

SKY HIGH SERENITY

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Blending seemlessly with its natural surroundings Amari’s Breeze Spa soothes all of the senses > P21 The view from one of Breeze Spa’s private teakwood massage Salas. @thephuketnews

20

16 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Students unite for conservation UWCT students lead new Marine Animal and Nature Trust Association Jakub Bystricky & Diogo Costa

T

he Marine Animal and Nature Trust Association (Manta) is a student led cocurricular activity reflective of the United World College Thailand’s (UWCT) focus and engagement in Marine Conservation. Manta consists of two different branches – Mangrove Restoration, and Coral Monitoring. It is also the first official “Global Concern” of UWCT, having benefited from financial awards to further support and propel the project.

Mangrove Restoration The mangrove restoration part of Manta originally consisted of Alessandro in Grade 10, supervisor Kru (“Teacher”)

UWCT now has a functioning mangrove tree nursery to boost their re-planting efforts.

Students obtained their scuba diving qualifications in order to monitor coral growth levels.

Jalal, and myself (Jakub Bystricky). I had no experience with mangroves except for the planting trip we did during the orientation week at the beginning of Grade 11. Luckily, Kru Jalal showed us and helped us understand how the mangrove ecosystem functions. Afterwards, we explained the importance of mangrove forests through some presentations to other students at UWCT. Once Kru Jalal said, “I’ve led several planting trips where our community has planted over 4,000 mangroves since I arrived at UWCT and my dream is to have a mangrove nursery here on site.”

And I have to say that Alessandro and I liked that dream too. So we had a plan.

As we needed money, we decided to use a “Global Concerns Fund” (GC). We went through the long process of becoming a GC and finally got our project approved. However, we didn’t become a GC alone. Coincidentally, another group with similar interests was also trying to be a GC club and they also didn’t have enough members. It was a coral monitoring group supervised by Kru Chris Lahey. The solution came naturally – we created one club: “Manta”. Finally, we were able to start working on the nursery and coral monitoring.

During Term 2 we had more members signing up for the mangrove nurs-

ery and all the pre-ordered materials were already on site. Although the building process was slow at first, the pace accelerated towards the finish, and now we have 400 mangroves inside the nursery already! We learned a lot in the process such as how to dig trenches, keep our measured lines straight, create concrete, set up a shade net, collect mangrove seed pods and create a water pump that would simulate the tides.

Finally, I would like to mention few people who without which we would hardly make it. From the staff: Kru Ned, our “Site Manager”, Kru Len, Khun Coco and the school maintenance team. Also the students: Katuta, Benjamin, Eduard, Ronnie, Filippo and all the students from the coral part who came to help when they were free. I can’t wait to continue our work in Term 3!

Coral Monitoring The coral monitoring part of Manta was initiated by three Grade 11 students: Blue, Saryu, and myself (Diogo Costa) alongside our supervisor Chris Lahey, in collaboration with Sea Bees – an SSI-certified local dive school.

Later on, as a formal invitation was sent to other students, five more students joined the group – Agatha,

Angel, Haris, Joalis and Sarah.

The intention with this branch of Manta was to establish a UWCT student divers’ team capable of undertaking active and positive intervention on the corals reefs of Phuket.

For the school year of 2016 and 2017 – the first year of this group – collecting data, as a way to monitor the development of the coral reefs in the area, more specifically the ones surrounding Nai Yang, became their core goal. To do so, all eight students enrolled and successfully completed the Open Water Diving Course that currently enables them to dive as deep as 18 metres.

Following up on this achievement, the group created an appropriate methodology for the collection of the data they set out to collect. This methodology has since been applied into their dives; all the information collected has then been submitted to Coral Watch, a trusted international database used by other UWC schools.

As the third and final term of the school year begins, the focus is on finalising the two final dives of the year and compiling all the data. Afterwards, as the low season starts in Thailand, the group will cease their diving season and participate in the Mangrove component of the CCA.

Communication is the key

F

or several years the Key Stage 3 students at the British International School Phuket have sat voice examinations of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (Lamda). These are a compulsory component of the Drama course and all students are examined by an external examiner who comes to Phuket for a two-week session expressly for this purpose.

Lamda offers many examinations but the school chooses to test students on “Speaking in Public”.

The examination tests formal speech and informal conversation.

In practice, the student prepares a speech in advance for the external examiner. The “conversation” is between the student and the examiner.

Students take it very seriously, and for most it is their first experience of an external examination.

Three pass certificates are

awarded: Pass, Merit and Distinction.

Each year the number of Merits and Distinctions has increased steadily, with 72% of Year 7 students obtaining these top two grades, 87% of Year 8 students and 86% of Year 9 students at this level in 2017.

In Year 9, Polina Cherdantseva achieved an outstanding 99%, all the more impressive given she joined us as part of the English as a second language curriculum.

Does it matter? It is certainly a useful certificate to obtain because the examination is recognised as a part of the documentation that can be included in university applications. However, more importantly, it emphasizes the value of clear communication and develops the skill of speaking well whether in a public address or in conversation.

Does it work? Rebecca Preen a Year 12 student honed her public speaking skills through the Lamda program

From left: Award winners Polina Cherdantseva, Isabella Hosking, Timothy Evans, Rosie Tucker and Karin Mathilda Gustafsson. and this year won the English Speaking contest for ages 16-20 in Thailand.

As the youngest competitor this was quite an achievement, and she was flown to London for a week-long workshop and competition as Thailand’s representative to take part in the world competition.

Again, among the youngest of competitors she performed excellently and proved to be a great credit to her country.

The Phuket News

From left: Award winners Vichayut Roengkarn, Alexandra Starostina, Tiffany Yip, Gemma Essex, Malaika Primarolo and Matthew Diamond. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

COMMUNITY 17

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Malaika Sherlock and Blaze Crause are two of the young Phuket performers who will have their songs aired on Live 89.5.

Live and local on island radio Live 89.5 to showcase songs by young Phuket musicians in new segment Mark Knowles editor1@classactmedia.co.th

P

huket’s Live 89.5 radio is going local this year to feature some of the island up-and-coming musical stars. Throughout the rest of the year Live 89.5 will be airing performances by students from the Phuket Academy of Performing Arts. The new segment, called “Student Sounds”, started on May 1 and will run four times a day, seven days a week, for the next 12 months.

“Student Sounds” is the brainchild of local music composer and producer Gary Crause, whose Legend Music Recording Studio recorded all of the student performances that will go to air.

“The idea occurred to me a while ago. Each year The Phuket Academy of Performing Arts records each of our students to help us, them and their parents track their development. We also offer selected advanced students the opportunity to participate in annual recording projects as one-offs or as part of a themed project like a Christmas album,” said Gary.

“So we end up with a lot of awesome recorded material which does not get the exposure it deserves. Students love to perform, and their parents love to see them perform, so it was a natural progression in thinking that they would love to hear themselves on the radio too.

@thephuketnews

Vocalist Chanon Cserepy records at Legend Music.

After thinking about it for a little while, I spoke with Class Act Media GM Jason Beavan about my idea and he seemed to love it as much as I do. It all kind of snowballed from there,” explained Gary.

The project will also be using the live 89.5 Facebook page to share video performances from students as young as four.

“We also wanted to give exposure via the Live 89.5 Facebook page to the student music videos that have, and will still be, created. Many of our recording students are juniors, some as young as four years old, and whilst these recordings are not suitable for constant rotation on radio, but they do go down well

Sasha Simkalova. as music video clips,” said Gary.

Gary hopes that the opportunity to have their songs played on the radio will encourage more students to write and perform original songs.

“Should ‘Student Sounds’ go ahead for the length of time that we are all hoping it will, it will prompt more students to record and collaborate on recordings to be featured on radio and on video,” said Gary.

For the month of May the segment will be brought to the airwaves on Live 89.5 FM by the Phuket Academy of Performing Arts and Legend Music Recording Studio – which is responsible for creating all of the recording and video

content for the project. Starting from June 1, UWC Thailand and Phuket Boat Lagoon will come on board as segment sponsors.

Many of the key segment times were selected to enable the students to hear themselves on the radio. You can tune in to hear “Student Sounds” during the following times and shows: Between 7am and 8am on the Breakfast Show with Chris Howson. On Donna in the Afternoon’s between 12 noon and 3pm. On the Drive show with Jason Wilder between 5pm and 6pm. On the evening show between 8pm and 9pm. It will also air at similar times during the weekend.

18 EXPLORE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

The Village People BLAZING SADDLES

T

Baz Daniel

he concept of “escape” from Phuket seems to occupy people’s minds more and more these days. Talking to fellow cyclists and other residents, particularly those with families, the need to find a sanctuary away from the island’s everyday hassles, stress and traffic is constantly mentioned. Many mentioned that the work week is also taking an increasing toll on residents of Phuket and so a depressurising and recharging escape to a tranquil location is increasingly sought.

This is particularly true of parents with children who seek a safe, healthy oasis where their offspring can romp about outdoors, as nature intended. And also of Phuket’s poor, blighted cyclists, who face not only heat and pollution, but continual danger when

Guests make their way to one of the resort’s several pools.

pursuing their passion for pushing pedals.

When I heard that The Village Coconut Island on Koh Maphrao offers day passes to locals for just B400 (B200 for children), with bicycles included as an activity option, it sounded exactly the sort of nearby escape that so many Phuketians are craving.

Koh Maphrao is a small isle about 2.5 kilometres long and 1.5km wide, located just 500 metres off Phuket’s east coast, near the popular Laem Hin Seafood dining piers a little north of Phuket Town. Koh Maphrao is still rather undeveloped and, amazingly, mains electricity was only introduced in November 2015 – a source of great excitement and rejoicing among the 400 or so Muslim villagers who call the island home. It takes only about five minutes by the Coconut Village’s motorboat service to reach their private pier on Koh Maphrao’s northwest coast.

The Village boasts a huge landscape of lush tropical gardens, plus 500m of private beachfront overlooking the dramatic limestone Karst islets etched in the heat haze of breathtaking Phang Nga Bay. They manage to maintain a laid-back island beach resort style with professional and friendly service, lovely swimming pools, good restaurants, a wonderful spa and lots of both sea and land-based activities to keep you and your little ones enthralled.

Coconut Island is roughly rectangular and a good quarter of its southwestern corner is covered with mangrove forest, home to longtailed macaques, big monitor lizards, and is also a breeding nursery for all sorts of fish. There’s only one paved road through the heart of the island running from west to east, starting at the island’s commercial pier and finishing at a viewpoint in the east coast jungle. However, there are lots of hilly, rocky tracks through the rubber trees to entertain and challenge the pioneering mountain biker.

The main village is located on the northern coast, next to The Village resort, and fishing and farming are the two main occupations with rubber trees, as well as local fruit and vegetables grown in the central part of the island. The villagers are very friendly and call out and wave as you cycle past. What an incredible change from Phuket itself and yet you are only 500m dis-

There are spectacular views of Phang Nga Bay from many parts of Coconut Island.

tance across the water.

There are three easily reachable beaches, the longest one being on the northern coast in front of the Village Coconut Island resort; the second one on the southern coast, where another small resort, Jindarin Beach Club is situated and the third one is a lovely secluded little cove, accessible by bike, on the east coast.

In the late afternoon when it had cooled down I cycled to the northeastern part of the island, which is wild and superb with some mountainous forest. The one paved road gradually degenerates into a dirt track which follows the east coast up to its central part, where a crumbling, closed-up bungalow resort with a dilapidated restaurant stands.

There are still some people living in this corner of the island – retired Europeans chasing their dream in peace, seemingly far away from it all, but in reality about five minutes by boat from Phuket. This is certainly one of the great advantages of settling here, a retired Aussie couple I met told me. While the island is still unspoiled and undeveloped, it’s only a short drive and boat ride to all the amenities (and hassles) of Phuket.

The best of both worlds.

Cycling around the hilly eastern part of the island is quite challenging, with steep rocky climbs, but the views to the east are worth it, as on a clear evening like the one

I enjoyed, you can see the Phi Phi Islands and even the hazy outline of the Krabi coast. Yet back at the Village’s lovely beachside Tamarind restaurant, as I sat quaffing a cold one, I felt I could almost reach out and touch the lights as they flickered back on Phuket.

Koh Maphrao is certainly a delightful place to visit if you’re a cyclist looking to discover authentic local life, and is a glimpse of the past where most of the modern world’s travails have yet to arrive.

And yet it’s only a five minute boat ride away!

The Village Coconut Island offers Phuket locals (Thai driving licence or work permit required) a Day Pass for just B400 (B200 baht for kids) including boat transfers, use of all resort facilities, including mountain bikes, a beach towel and 25% off all food and beverage purchases. For more information visit: thevillage-coconutisland.com

Baz pauses for a pic in a shady rubber plantation. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

MOTORING 19

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

MX-5 RF drops top, not price words like “frumpy” and “different” but nothing associated with terms like gorgeous.

And even those aforementioned models should be considered as distant rivals to the MX-5, the RF – with its intentions of swaying punters of coupes who would hardly ever fold away the roof in Thailand – simply loses out in number of seats, interior space and proper cruising comfort.

That’s not to mention BMW’s premium brand image and the 200hp performance offered in the Subayota (or Toyobaru, if you insist).

Bangkok Post

M

azda has given its roadster a Targa-style roof in the guise of the Retractable Fastback (RT). Can substance rule over style?

What’s new?

Ever since the thirdgeneration model, the Mazda MX-5 had two roof types to choose from: a classic soft-top and the more complex folding hard-top, simply called RHT (retractable hard-top).

Mazda has continued the dualmodel strategy for the current fourthgen MX-5, although the RHT is now dubbed RF. That’s because the RF’s tin-top, unlike in the RHT, doesn’t completely disappear when driving with the air blowing into your hair.

Instead, the RF maintains newly designed C-pillar panels in their places – whether roof up or down – in the fashion of Porsche’s 911 Targa.

The RF is being sold at B2.7 million – a million baht more than the canvastopped MX-5. Both have the same 160hp 2.0-litre petrol engine, six-speed automatic gearbox and equipment list.

Although Mazda is now updating its entire model range with GVC technology, it isn’t available in the MX-5. The suits as Mazda say such ride and handling enhancements aren’t necessary in the roadster.

Mazda’s MX-5 has always been a fun and affordable roadster and the 2017 model doesn’t disappoint.

What’s cool?

Like in the RHT predecessor, the presence of the folding hard-top helps for more cruising refinement on the move when compared to the soft-top version. Of course, you can still hear some road noise, but it’s considerably quieter in the RF and there’s less scuttle shake, as well.

Another good thing about the RF’s roof is that it stows away into a dedicated compartment without letting you fear whether boot space has eroded.

And those new C-pillars help for a distinctive appearance at all times – whether it’s raining or not.

Although the RF is more than 50 kilograms heavier than the soft-top MX-5, its weight penalty won’t neces-

Honda tantalised by tax breaks on electric vehicles

J

apanese carmaker Honda Automobile Thailand is interested in the government’s promotional privileges for electric vehicles (EVs), saying the packages are alluring, as they are offered to various types of EV-related products and technologies. The government’s EV promotional packages are open not only to hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), but also plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

“We earlier proposed to the government that it should offer promotional privileges on HEVs and PHEVs before expanding into BEVs,” said chief operating officer Pitak Pruittisarikorn.

“And the government’s incentives coincide with our proposals.”

The Board of Investment (BoI) in March approved promotional privileges for EVs, including tax holidays of five to eight years. The privileges focus on production of HEVs, PHEVs and BEVs. The promotions include passenger cars, pickup trucks and buses, with different rates of privileges based on production technology.

HEVs are entitled to a tariff exemption for imported machinery, while PHEV investment is eligible for a corporate income tax exemption for three years and import tariff exemptions on machinery. PHEV investors who manufacture more than one key EV part will be entitled to an additional year of corporate income tax exemption per piece, but the combined tax exemptions can@thephuketnews

Mr Pitak poses with a Honda Mobilio, an innovative sub-compact MUV. Photo: Bangkok Post not exceed six years.

BEV investment is entitled to five to eight years of corporate tax exemption.

BEV investors who manufacture more than one key EV part will be entitled to another year of corporate income tax exemption per piece, but the combined tax exemption cannot exceed 10 years.

Battery electric buses will be entitled to tariff exemptions for imported machinery and a three-year corporate tax exemption. They are also eligible for an additional year of corporate income tax exemption per piece, with the combined tax exemption not to exceed six years.

The BoI added 10 more important EV parts that will enjoy corporate income tax exemption for eight years.

They are batteries, traction motors, battery management services, EV smart charging systems, DC/DC converters, inverters, portable electric vehicle chargers and electrical circuit breakers.

Bangkok Post

sarily be felt on the move. In fact, the rev-happy naturally aspirated motor does a good job in keeping up with pace.

And yes, Mazda might be right about not being perturbed in fitting GVC to the MX-5. That’s because the RF goes around like any other MX-5 with direct steering, firm yet comfy ride and adjustable rear-drive handling. The RF even feels more fun to drive than the BMW 2-series Coupe and the well-received Subaru BRZ/ Toyota 86 twins.

What’s not?

To be as subjective as possible and fair to Mazda, we talked to several enthusiasts about the RF’s appearance.

The bad news is that we have heard

Buy or bye?

Objectively speaking, the MX-5 RF is a better choice than the rag-top model due to its roof-up refinement and somehow uncompromising performance and road manners. You could say that it’s B100k well-spent for an import of this price.

But the thing is that if you really want coupe-like appearance and hushed cabin, then the MX-5’s nearby opponents are really the ones to go for.

The MX-5 has always been a priceaffordable roadster that’s fun to drive and whose foibles can be forgiven in one way or the other.

And to really enjoy it for what it is, we’d say that the soft-top – with its classy roof and honest lightweight concept, not to mention the B100k discount – is still the one to have.

20 DINING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Boathouse to be born again Baz Daniel editor1@classactmedia.co.th

I

t was a scribbler’s worst nightmare. A sensational sunset overlooking Kata Beach and Poo Island; pre-dinner drinks on the glorious outdoor terrace overlooking the broad swathe of Kata Beach’s magnificent sands; a fabulous seafood buffet supper featuring Phuket lobster Thermidor cooked to perfection and complemented by the most piquant Sauvignon Blanc; cool serenades of live music, and the wonderful hospitality of genial GM Max Chin and his team of consummate professionals.

What was I to do?

Undoubtedly words such as “paradise”, “perfection” and “iconic” have become clichéd where Boathouse is concerned, but it is challenging indeed to attend such an event as this without resorting to them. And let’s be honest here, the reason that they have become Boathouse clichés is because they are so damn apposite in describing this wonderful resort and its iconic (sorry!) restaurant.

Boathouse temporarily closed its illustrious portals last Saturday (May 13), in order to undertake some five months of renovations and upgrades, planning to re-open in suitably splendid fashion at the start of November to welcome the high season.

I was genuinely perplexed. How can you upgrade and embellish something as resolutely perfect as Boathouse? I wondered.

Boathouse Wine and Grill will undergo extensive renovations before it reopening later this year.

The first time I reviewed Boathouse for the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurants Awards, back in 2007, I rated the “location and ambience” as a perfect 10. “We don’t generally give out ‘10s’” said the rather po-faced editrix of this august publication, to which I couldn’t help replying, paraphrasing the incomparable John Cleese in Fawlty Towers, “Why, because Krakatoa wasn’t erupting on the horizon?”

It’s not just me who thinks this way.

My partner, Madame Pattie, who is as astute a judge of fine dining as you will meet in Thailand, rated our experience last Saturday as one of the best din­ners we’ve ever enjoyed together and her Facebook posting (yes, she’s Thai, and posting on Facebook is mandated by the new constitution, it seems) immediately garnered over 60 “Likes”.

So, is the word “iconic” justified?

Boathouse proudly opened its welcoming doors in February 1989 and has since played host to a star-studded cast of the rich, famous and discerning down through the years. I could name drop the likes of Peter Ustinov, Rudolph Nureyev and more Thai and international royalty than you can shake a scepter at, but I won’t. Suffice to say, that such a luminary cast beating a consistent path to the doors of Boathouse must have something to do with achieving iconic status.

Then there’s the wine. Boathouse has Phuket’s, and indeed one of Thailand’s, most comprehensive wine cellars boasting over 800 labels and 8,000 bottles, and its wine dinners and events are the stuff of palette-caressing legend.

Again, don’t just take my word for this.

Since 1981, the Wine Spectator

Boathouse’s prime location needs no renovations. magazine has honoured the world’s best wine lists with its awards and become the global standard by which cellars are judged. Boathouse Wine and Grill has been included in their honours list every year since 1995 and in 2012 received the world’s ultimate oenophilic accolade: Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence – one of only two restaurants in Phuket ever to do so Over coffee and a port I asked Boathouse’s energetic General Manager Max Chin, who was also celebrating two years and a day in his high profile position, how on Earth could they improve upon perfection? He answered me with a mischievous smile, “You’ll have to wait and see what we come up with for next November, but I can tell you that it will be extraordinary and I will be a big part of making it truly iconic.” I can hardly wait!

Centara Krabi appoints virtuoso Thai Chef Thong Aek

K

rabi has gained an exciting new culinary star, with Centara Anda Dhevi appointing Thong Aek Seneewong na Ayuthaya as head chef. With over 16 years’ experience across Asia working for some of the best hotels and chefs in the business, Chef Thong Aek has chosen Centara and Krabi as his new workplace and home in a move that is sure to delight guests and locals alike.

After completing his tourism studies at Siam Business College, Chef Thong Aek dived head first into the industry with the opening of the Bangkok Peninsula Hotel. Other people would have aimed for a chance in one of the restaurants, but he was quite content to work in “Chili & Pepper”, the staff canteen of this famous five-star hotel. This is where he learned to cook Thai food for Thai people. At that point, instead of plating fine-dining creations, he managed a wok and cooked portions for 10 people at a time. This fundamental knowledge has accompanied him his whole life and serves as the foundation of his culinary career.

Chef Thong Aek went abroad for the first time to join the Mandarin Oriental Macau for a total of five years. His starting position was as Commis Chef in Naam – the hotel’s Thai fine-dining restaurant. Here

Mr George Kenton, General Manager at Centara Linguine with Tiger Prawns, Orange Segments and Anda Dhevi Resort & Spa (left) is proud to have Anchovies Sauce, one of Chef Thong Aek’s creative chef Thong Aek to lead his kitchen team. menu item – a perfect combination. he learned the finesse of fine dining and elegant plate presentation. He was promoted to Demi Chef after two years. Soon, he was given a chance to work as Demi Chef at the Mandarin’s Italian restaurant, Mezzaluna. This change was a challenge, considering he had never cooked Italian food before. He studied endless recipes and cooking techniques to become an effective Italian chef. During this time Mezzaluna was one of the very best restaurants in Macau and he was able to work with numerous well-known foreign chefs who have now have made excellent careers for themselves.

After five years abroad, he felt it was time to return to his family and

look after his mother and grandmother in Chiang Mai. Through Mandarin Oriental Hotel group he was invited to return back to his roots of Thai cuisine at the Le Grand Lanna Restaurant at the Dhara Dhevi, the magnificent hotel in Chiang Mai, where he was promoted to Chef de Partie. He enjoyed his time back in Thailand and especially to cook Thai food again. It was a great learning experience to be part of such an excellent hotel and improve his knowledge of Thai cuisine under the guidance of Chef Virat Kanja.

After another short stint in Singapore and Macau, Chef Thong Aek decided to return to Thailand and set-

tle down. He joined his first hotel with American-style management, the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, and worked there for one year at its Cucina Italian restaurant. He later joined the Crown Plaza as chef de cuisine of its Patio restaurant. He enjoyed taking care of Patio, working with his team and teaching them new dishes and techniques. In the meanwhile he also gained official chef certifications that qualified him to work as a chef in Europe.

After his wide-ranging 16-year culinary journey, Chef Thong Aek now brings his wealth of experience to Centara Anda Dhevi Resort & Spa Krabi as head chef. As the head of the kitchen department he will not only be using his cooking skills, but also develop his knowledge of department finances, planning, organising and developing both products and people.

Chef Thong Aek says: “It is my pleasure and pride to join the Centara family as I have received the opportunity to show my skills, develop myself, and more over, I have a chance to develop others.”

George Kenton, General Manager, says: “We are delighted and excited to have you on our team Chef Ake, and look forward seeing you continue your fascinating journey with us in Krabi.”

The Phuket News

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

HEALTH 21

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

The teakwood massage salas give you stunning views of Patong Bay.

The cool ocean air helps maintain the perfect temperature during your spa treatment.

A soothing tropical breeze

Immersed in nature, Breeze Spa delivers a unique sensory experience Shela Riva reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he unique layout of Breeze Spa speaks volumes about the designers of the extravagant Amari Phuket resort – it is clear that offering premium in-house spa and relaxation services was one of their top priorities. I’ve seen a number of high-end resorts in my life, but not as a customer – throughout my childhood my father worked as a hotelier, so growing up I was constantly exposed to the extravagant world of luxury resorts.

So I was surprised when expecting to be led to a dark room around the side of spa lobby, the receptionist instead led me out of the side door, not into a room but into a lush tropical wilderness. I followed a winding path that cut through the foliage, shadowed by high palm trees, it began sloping upward before eventually transforming into steps that led up to the top of the hill on which the hotel is nestled. Each step up gave increasingly panoramic views of Patong Bay and the Andaman Sea stretching out to the horizon.

As we walked for a few minutes, I felt an anticipation building – which I suspected was an intentional part of the whole experience. I wondered if all the guests felt this same curiosity – the build-up of suspense before the release of tension. As we climbed more steps and navigated another path, I came to the conclusion that the small amount of labour asked of me would probably be well worth my while. The higher we climbed, the higher the enveloping crescendo of cicadas rang, seemingly reaching fever pitch as we arrived at the door of our “room”.

But again, as we “entered”, there was only more outside. Inside was a Thai-style, open-air sala surrounded by greenery, a faint rustle of birds and wildlife, and before us, the great blue sea – its waves glistening from the sunlight’s touch.

The only wall at the back held a luxurious bathroom and shower, in which we were asked to rinse ourselves and change into the comfortable attire of, well... as little as possible actually. With a robe around us to protect our modesty, our therapists gently rinsed our feet in a lukewarm bath.

Now we may dig into the flesh of the experience.

One limb at a time, my therapist carefully rubbed my skin with a fragrant potion containing Aloe Vera, phytoplankton extract, coconut, mint and lime – I simply lay underneath a thin cloth, meditatively aware of it working its magic on my skin, for 30 glorious minutes. The shrill sound of cicadas took me into a trance-like state, with the minty face-mask exuding a subtle burning, yet cooling sensation.

Phytoplankton, I later learned, is rich in sea minerals, which softens skin and promotes all-over radiance. Aloe Vera is of course excellent for treating sunburn – the mask is designed as a recovery for beachgoers, or even scooter drivers, caught in blazing midday heat of Phuket.

Unlike your average dimly lit and air-conditioned spa room, Amari’s outdoor set up provided an ideal natural temperature from beginning to end, and I @thephuketnews

Each massage sala has a spa bath for you to soak away your cares. was never uncomfortable or shyly requesting temperature adjustment, as I have found myself doing at other venues.

Perhaps the most subtle, but somehow most memorable aspect of Amari’s spa is the unique sensory experience – the sounds of nature, insects, the wind, bright green vegetation, faint laughter

from the beach and the angle of the sunlight – all add to the pleasure and ensures each guest receives a unique experience.

Let’s not forget the olfactory system, which was certainly not neglected. The 60-minute oil massage smelled as heavenly as it felt, and it felt like what it was: a five-star rub for total muscular

relaxation from a highly trained, professional therapist who adjusted accurately to the pressure I requested.

The soothing scents didn’t stop there, the 45-minute facial treatment which followed the massage entailed about five different skincare lotions, each with a unique tropical scent. The treatment used products from the skincare line of Dr Howard Murad, a renowned dermatologist, pharmacist and President of the University of Inclusive Health. Each special potion was massaged into my face by gentle hands and wiped off, after it had done its magic, with cool cotton, leaving me feeling more fresh, soft, fragrant and pampered than I have felt for… possibly, ever.

The author enjoyed Amari’s Phuket Coco Mojito Package, priced at B4,500 for a 150-minute treatment.

For more information about Amari’s Breeze Spa, visit: amari.com/ phuket/breeze-spa.aspx

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

People stopped to admire and photograph the classic cars while they were parked at Boat Lagoon.

This girl looked the part with her ’67 Oldsmobile.

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

One of the clubs’ more unusual vehicles.

Club members chatted with onlookers about their cars.

CLASSIC AMERICAN CARS DRIVE TO PHUKET ALL THE WAY FROM BANGKOK Last Friday (May 12), the American Car Club from Bangkok arrived in Phuket. Club members took in the sights of Phuket, including Sarasin Bridge, Saphan Hin Park and Phuket Old Town. The classic cars taking part in the tour included a ’69 Charger, ’67 Camaro, ’66 Mustang, ’57 Cadillac, ’69 Lincoln Continental and many more.

New PIWC member Sue (2nd from left).

New PIWC member Sally (centre).

PIWC WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS FOR MONTHLY MEET AND GREET AT STARBUCKS Members of the Phuket International Women's Club (PIWC) gathered in Starbucks at Central Festival last week for some good coffee and conversation as part of their regular monthly sip-and-chat event. This month the PIWC ladies welcomed two new members, Sue and Sally.

Bodega’s managers with the award.

The hardworking staff at Bodega are proud of their achievement.

ANGSANA’S BOGEGA WINS THAILAND TATLER’S BEST RESTAURANTS AWARD Bodega & Grill, an Italian restaurant and steak house operated by Angsana Laguna Phuket, has announced that it has been selected as one of best restaurants in Thailand

by Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant 2017, a guide to the best of fine dining in Thailand. For the 16th year running, the Thailand Tatler Best Restaurants Awards 2017 is back again with this year’s pick of the top 230 restaurants that have been anonymously sampled by the team of judges over the past few months, then scored across the four key areas that make up the total guide to the finest achievements in the F&B industry and published in Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Guide 2017. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Guests enjoyed welcome drinks while roaming live musicians played.

Josh and Andrew.

Wicky and Jennifer.

Entertainment for the evening was arranged courtesy of Phuket-based Legend Music.

PHUKET HOTELS ASSOCIATION GALA DINNER DAZZLES GUESTS AT LATITUDE The Phuket Hotels Association (PHA) hosted its gala charity dinner at Latitude in Laguna last Saturday (May 13) to help raise funds to sponsor the hospitality education and training of local students. The PHA, a nonprofit organisation of hoteliers focused on promoting a positive image for Phuket, as well as being involved with community-based projects, is investing in local skills with the money raised during the event expected to fund 20 hospitality scholarships and traineeships for local residents.

Guests enjoyed food prepared by some of the top chefs from Phuket’s best hotels.

Actors and performers wore costumes to enhance the experience.

Dresses in pre-war style were in vogue.

Guest were treated to musical numbers from the pre-WWII era.

MAIKHAO DREAM TAKES GUESTS BACK IN TIME WITH SPY NOIR EVENT In another first for the Culture Revolution team, the “Spy Noir” event was hosted at Maikhao Dream Villa Resort & Spa on May 9. The show was based on the celebration and remembrance of the pre-WWII relationship between Russia and China. The program included works from the pre-war era, including songs from the trenches as well as military and film music from the time. Artists and musicians collaborated to reproduce a unique feel and look of the era. @thephuketnews

24 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

19 MAY

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

roast and boiled potatoes, three fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. Only B350 per person which includes a free glass of house red or white. Opposite Centara Karon Resort. See: otools-phuket.com

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

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 395 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 at Two Chefs!!! www.twochefs.com Kata Beach 076333-370 Kata Center 076-330-065 Karon 076-286479 Patong 076-344-914.

AsiaLIFE Radio Music Festival 3 at the ACG An all-day/night open air carnival of music and familyfriendly entertainment – will be staged in the majestic setting of the grounds at the ACG (Alan Cooke Cricket Ground) on Saturday 20 May. For the 3rd year on the trot; AsiaLIFE Radio Music Festival allures our ear-soul with an eclectic mix of music. With 7 bands and 3 DJ’s on one stage, the AsiaLIFE Radio Music Festival will alight the green with a festival spirit.

AsiaLIFE Radio.com, The ACG, prim@asialiferadio. com, 085 691 7250.

Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Bodega Italian Brunch Experience our exquisite ‘Italian Sunday Brunch’, which began on May 7 and runs weekly throughout the season. Choose from a wonderful variety of dishes, including lobster spaghetti, foie gras on saffron risotto, grilled suckling pig, live pizza and pasta stations and much more. Email for reservations at Bodega & Grill: Paneenart.Pengraksa@angsana.com

Brunch To The Beat Pool Competition at Expat Sports Bar The competition at 9pm - Expat Sports Bar at the Expat Hotel Soi Taipan Patong. See map at www.expathotel.com

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with french fries, your choice, your style: nature, marnière, provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended B295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

Spend a Sunday with us at The Pool House and The Pool Bar. Try our new style brunch. Price: THB 1,600++ buffet with free flow of soft drinks, THB 2,200++ buffet including premium beverages package. Reservations, fnb.phuhr@ hyatt.com 076 231 234 #5106.

Australians in Phuket Adventure Mini Golf event Tee off at 4.30pm for 18 holes. We will organise the teams, register at 4pm sharp. Then into dinner for a fantastic meal at 6pm. Starters, pizza, pasta and salads – woohoo! Prizes for performances on the day, so don’t run away. All included in the price B400 for members and B500 for non-members. Please let us know you are coming, either through Facebook or email at: geoff@getsolutions.net.au

5 Gourmet Tapas plus 2 drinks for just B690 net!!!

And French Oysters for just B50 net/piece. Never worry about where to spend Friday evenings again!

Join DeDos LeLounge for our Chill Out Fridays featuring cool beats from DJ Not from 7:30pm until late!

So grab your friends and start your weekend off right! www.dedos-lelounge.com 076 621 692.

SAT

20 MAY

Live Sports at Expat Hotel NRL, AFL, Soccer, Rugby Union. Any live sport, we will show it. Expat Hotel, Soi Taipan, Patong. www.expatsportsbar.com

Lions Club of Phuket Pearl invites you to join our CHARITY BOWLING COMPETITION at Big C Supercenter. If you can’t join us but want help our activities then you can make a donation. All funds collected are for projects that help children in need. Join us, register your team or donation: Lion Igor Protasov: 082 444 0555 or igor@thai-bd.com, Lion Vilaiwan Dienel: 081 397 1567 Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News, Khao Phuket and Live 89.5.

Go Live Sunday Seafood Brunch

Murder Mystery Evening at The Green Man

Chill Out Fridays in Surin

Lions Club of Phuket Pearl CHARITY BOWLING COMPETITION

Solve the murder and win a prize! Ticket includes welcome drink, pub-style finger food and murder mystery theatre play. Presented by THEATRIX, written by Ian Hornby with adaptation by Basil Lunatic. Ticket cost is THB 400/person before 18 May and THB 500 later and at door. Ticket reservation: 093 649 0066 (Joel) and 076 390 360 (Green Man). Attire: Phuket beach and party clothes. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5 and The Green Man Pub and Restaurant in Chalong.

SUN

The Banyan Tree Seafood Brunch experience returns with a generous selection of live fresh, local and imported seafood with exception Lobster dished, Japanese starters, mouth-watering meats, Asia wok and Western grill treats. Gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, Live Jazz and tranquil surroundings, The Banyan Tree has something for everyone! Every Sunday 12.00-15.30, price start from B2,800 net per person. Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, fb-phuket@banyantree.com 076 372 400.

Sunday Roast All Day All Night

Lunch or dinner served from 2pm. Your choice of either roast beef, chicken, loin of pork or leg of lamb served with

The Drunken Leprechaun Phuket is celebrating 2nd year anniversary and we will host a silent auction featuring an authentic pair of boxing gloves signed by former WBO welterweight champion “Manny Pacquiao”. To register a bid, please contact us via Facebook page or email: Events.PhuketPatong@swissotel.com and include your bid and contact details.

You will receive a notification on your bid and also be informed if you have been outbid at any time.

The winner will be announced at 6 pm on Sunday, 21st May and all proceeds will be donated to “The Destination Kids Foundation” Call: 076 337 000

21 MAY

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

Calling all sports fans and enthusiasts!

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Beach, Kata Center, Karon and Patong! Indulge ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for 395 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 Red Wine Gravy. Enjoy 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.

MON

22 MAY

All you can eat BBQ night 6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes and sauces, bread, buns and garlic bread. Reservation recommended. 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

WED

EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

24 MAY

SAT

27 MAY

SAT

3 JUN

Laguna Phuket Marathon 2017 More than 6,000 athletes from around the world head to Phuket this June to “Run Paradise” at the 2017 Laguna Phuket Marathon. Having put Phuket on the map as a world-class sports tourism destination, the Laguna Phuket Marathon has grown to become the leading destination marathon in Southeast Asia and will take place on June 3 and 4, 2017. More info visit phuketmarathon.com.

Proudly sponsored by Live 89.5.

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. 350 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

THU

25 MAY Live 89.5 - Summer Saturday @ The Village Coconut Island

SAT

10 JUN healthy snacks & salads. Find us at the Entrance of The Royal Paradise Complex, Patong. Mon - Sat 8.30am 4.00pm. Facebook: CafeSiamGuesthousePhuket 081 676 9411.

Come and meet the Live 89.5 team! Tickets include return boat transfers, Beach BBQ and drinks. All welcome to this fun family friendly afternoon at The Village Coconut Island. Tickets available at phuketticketmaster.com

Sexy Thursdays in Surin DeDos LeLounge is bringing sexy back on Thursday nights! Ladies grab your girlfriends because: Selected beverages are only 150++ all night (Sorry fellas!), DJ Not will be bringing down the house from 7:30pm onward! Make sure to bring your A-game because the sexiest dressed will win a bottle on the house! Who needs the weekend when there’s Sexy Thursdays? www.dedos-lelounge.com 076 621 692.

FRI

26 MAY

SUN

28 MAY

Rotary Club of Phuket South Mini Marathon 2017 The second running of this annual family friendly event is expected to attract over 2,000 runners for its 10.5KM mini-marathon and 3.5KM fun-run. Entry fees are B350 per person for the mini-marathon and B300 per person for the fun-run. Entries are now open, so to register contact 097 267 5969 or for tickets go to phuketticketmaster.com. This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

Phuket International Rugby 10s

Iron Chef Kids at QSI The First Annual International Student Cooking Competition and Food Fair will take place on QSI’s campus in Kathu on Saturday, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Student teams from across the island will construct two signature dishes which will be judged by two celebrity chefs. Many local restaurants will be providing samples to taste while you watch the competition. And, local organic produce and products will be for sale. Come see the excitement and celebrate local cuisine. Entry fee is 300 Baht for adult and 100 baht for children under 12. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5.

FRI

23 JUN

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790 THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790 THB++, Seafood Night @980 THB++, Ribs, Wings & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++,Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++.

The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. For reservations, rimtalay@amari.com or 076 340106-14 #8027.

La Gritta’s Discovery Menu

Laguna Phuket Hospitality Challenge 2017 The second annual Laguna Phuket Hospitality Challenge – Charity Golf Tournament will take place at Laguna Golf Phuket. The event sees hospitality professionals from Phuket and surrounding areas come together at the award winning golf course. To register your team, please visit www.lagunagolf.com/phuket or email golf@lagunaphuket.com for more information.

Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News, Live 89.5 and Khao Phuket.

May 26-28, 2017, will once again see teams from around the world coming together at the superb sports facility at Thanyapura Sports Club to compete at this year’s 19th Annual Phuket International Rugby 10s.

With teams from Australia, The Arabian Gulf, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand, it promises to be a fun action-packed weekend. Entry to the tournament is free so come on down and enjoy some spectacular rugby and support your local Phuket Vagabonds team. More info visit: phuketrugby10s.com. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay

Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef

Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@amari.com 076 292 697.

MISCELLANEOUS

EVERY DAY BISP Run the Hour

Boat Lagoon Weekend

พบกันงานแสดง ดนตรี อาหาร และความสนุกหลายรูปแบบ ทีง่ านโบ๊ทลากูนวีคเอนด์

Beats & Bites & Music & Food & Fun.

From 6.00pm till 10.00pm at Lagoon Quay, Phuket Boat Lagoon.

@thephuketnews

BISP is hosting a charity run called BISP Run the Hour and is open to all ages. There will be two races held on campus over a closed 1km loop. All profits will go to the BISP Project Restart charity which is a student-driven initiative to help children in devastated or impoverished areas, and their first campaign has been to help restart a school in Nepal following the Gorkha earthquake.

More info contact running@bisphuket.ac.th. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5

Rotary Club of Patong Beach

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam. All day breakfast, just like mum makes. Lavazza Coffee,

Lunch meeting at Days Inn, Patong - every Friday except first week of every month. Starts at 12pm. Dinner out at selected restaurant - every first Tuesday of every month. Start at 7pm. Fun Raiser Quiz Night at Aussie Pub, Kamala - every last Wednesday of every month starts at 7.30pm. For more info please visit rotarypatong.org

26 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. Which character did Marlon Brando play in the classic war film ‘Apocalypse Now’?

2. Where was the first Eurovision Song Contest held?

3. In which year did the Indonesian volcano Krakatoa erupt?

4. How many tentacles do squid have?

5. What is the official currency of the Falkland Islands?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Easy

Across 1. Opposing 5. Dishes often containing cheese 10. Swell party 14. Golf club 15. Sunlit rooms 16. It’s surrounded by the sea 17. Like a scrubbed space mission 18. Young pheasant 19. Landing equipment 20. Vegetables 23. Agcy. that manages federal property 24. Harp’s cousin 25. Infuriate 29. ___-tzu 31. Not in bottles 35. Composite material used in saw blades 37. The “I” of T.G.I.F. 39. Answer to the pastor 40. Fish 44. Certain cells 45. Herb of grace 46. Least tainted 47. Extend, in a way 50. Cards with photos 52. Spiteful 53. Extinct relatives of ostriches 55. Done, for Donne

57. Fruit 64. Old 45 player 65. Caustic 66. Tiny amount 68. Gelling agent 69. Red tropical fruit 70. Feels terrible about 71. Shipping weight deduction 72. Old-fashioned rewards 73. Evergreens

22. Dude 25. Role player 26. Temerity 27. Pun product 28. Australian runner 30. Offered a hand to 32. Southeast Asian nation 33. Parched 34. Strange 36. Feather’s partner 38. Duped one 41. Pain in the neck 42. Dinero Down 43. Certain 1. Botanist’s beard investment, for 2. Barnes and Noble’s tablet short 3. Forum robe 48. Darth Vader and 4. Object of worship his allies 5. Snacks served with 49. Travail cerveza 51. Redid the lawn 6. Like some Oriental 54. Type of tea music 56. Fencing sticks 7. Gunk 57. Steps by the 8. Waterproof cover Ganges, in India 9. Indonesian grilled 58.

Major Baltic port chicken snack 59. Way over yonder 10. It has a peal for 60. Big name in court Londoners? shoes 11. Like many 61. Subject to a draft hurricanes 62. A rake 12. Refined waste 63. Gumbo or goulash 13. Where you are 21. Frog-hunting bird 67. Zebra kin

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Col Kurtz; 2) Lugano, Switzerland (1953); 3) 1883; 4) Two (plus eight “arms”, usually in pairs); 5) Falkland Islands pound

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history May 19, 1911 Parks Canada, the world’s first national park service, is established as the Dominion Parks Branch under the Department of the Interior.

1

cat was accidentally mailed on an eight-day, more than 416km journey by British woman Julie Baggott after it climbed into a package of DVDs.

May 20, 1609 Shakespeare’s sonnets are first published in London, perhaps illicitly, by the publisher Thomas Thorpe.

75

May 21, 1932 Bad weather forces Amelia Earhart to land in a pasture in Derry, Northern Ireland, and she thereby becomes the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

per cent of couples do not go to bed at the same time.

458

pounds of US beef samples examined by experts found that every pound of beef contained bacteria signifying fecal contamination.

May 22, 1987 First ever Rugby World Cup kicks off with New Zealand playing Italy at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand.

(New Zealand defeated France 29-9 to win the final.)

American babies are born premature each year at least in part because of air pollution.

May 23, 1934 Infamous ban k robbers Bonnie a nd Clyde a re ambushed by police and killed in Bienville Parish, Louisiana.

16,000

4.9 million people in China have been banned from flying on planes because of their poor credit scores.

Source: Uberfacts

May 24, 1830 “Mary Had a Little Lamb” by Sarah Josepha Hale is published.

Evening jog at Kamala. Photo by Pete Bowen Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

May 25, 1953 The first public television station in the US officially begins broadcasting as KUHT from the campus of the University of Houston.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Jobs

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Trades & Services

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MOVING SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

 Sizes to Suit all Budgets  Personal & Business Storage  Motorcycle Storage  Left Luggage Service  We Sell Boxes  Storage Insurance Inclusive

Secure, Clean & Cost Effective Self Storage Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket

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Buy&Sell

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Sign up today for a discount code

The new website for Tiya’s hammocks is ready! Visit now at: native-habitat. com and subscribe for a discount code to use for online shopping. Tiya: hammockphuket@yahoo.com 076 631 841.

AUTOPARTS, TIRES Used 4 Wheel & Tire for sale

For 4 pcs. (Wheel & Tire) Size 235/40 ZR 18” Used only 6,000 KM. 18,000 Baht, Near Panwa Beach, Phuket, marnskjold@gmail.com 083 635 1440.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Motorboat for sale

Superb “Bayliner 215” motorboat with trailer built in 2010 and fully maintained throughout. Full service record. 650,000 baht O.N.O 650000, Barry Daniel, Fisherman Way, Chalong, Phuket 83100, baz_gunner2000@ yahoo.com.au +66843053974.

CAPELLI TEMPEST TE 800

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Year 2016. Engine Yamaha 300 HP, Special hypalon tubes, Refigerator, Shower, Electric Toilet, Sink, Teak floor, Navigation, Water thank 60 L. 2,900,000, Owner, 093 575 2304.

Restaurant set up for sale

A fully equipped restaurant in the highly sought after Boat Avenue mall in Laguna.

Stainless steel kitchen, Wi-Fi, bar counter, service area. Ready to go in days. Email: jukeboxphuket@gmail.com 081 090 1608.

Long Tail Boat For Sale

Ready to go “Long Tail Boat” with or Without Captain (Thai) Get special price, please call 085 781 9167 (English) Bangtao Beach, Phuket, B275,000, giorgionaef@aol.com 085 781 9167.

Boating deal of the year: 7.5m baht (reduced from 10m baht)

Due to serious health reasons, the owner must part with his beloved 80’ tour boat.

New wiring throughout, power outlets, transformer and voltage meters. New upholstery throughout bar and entertainment area. Engines & generator fully reconditioned & serviced. All maintained to European standards. Ideal boat for quality day trip business. beachsando1@gmail. com 080 695 3933.

Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale. Built 2012, 2 x Cummings engines, 10hrs work only. International REG. Excellent for live-aboard or ferry. Price 6MB. Contact: call Joe 087 8918912 or email joe@similan-divers.com

Looking for investor / partner

Looking for investor / partnership for Patong beach front location to start with Japanese and Indian restaurant.

Narin, narinpga@gmail.com 081 826 9390.

CABLE TV PULSE TV. ASIA’S No.1 EXPAT TV

140 channels (HD & SD) in English, French, German & Thai. All Premiership & Euro Leagues live plus all your favorite Soaps & Series from back home. ON-Demand Movie/TV Series library with over 700 of the latest titles, more added daily & with our CATCH-UP Facility (Records all Channels for instant Playback) you’ll never miss a show. This is not kodi – Our high quality set-top boxes come pre-loaded with our own in-house developed App backed up by our own high-speed Asia based Servers & Online Support Network. PULSE TV, sales@ pulse-tv.net +66(0) 99 316 6212.

CAR FOR SALE 2009 Ford Focus Ghia

Excellent condition, 63k miles, silver grey, beige leather interior.

Automatic, Ford serviced, 310,000 baht. Call 096-809-9350 (Eng).

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Beauty Salon with Equipment

en

ts

al e

Honda Jazz 2009

For Sale, Nai Harn Beauty Salon with Urg 1500cc Auto Equipment & lease, B290,000. Salon 57,000km. One owner since new.

Equipment replacement cost is more than B300,000. All Regularly serviced by Honda. Tax and equipment shown as new. Must view to see excellent Insurance until the end of June and available now at right opportunity to purchase Salon for extremely good price offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht in prime location. Call Nok for details 098 017 8818. o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com @thephuketnews

CAR FOR SALE 2014 Nissan Juke For Sale

2014 Nissan Juke, one owner, full history, leather interior, rear sensors, climate control. Perfect Phuket runabout, only 82000km. 530,000, soiana56030@gmail. com, 0950 924 729

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

2013 - 35,000km - Automatic White - CD Radio, Air-con, Alloys Excellent Condition, Only used for school runs. 525,000, Duang, Royal Phuket Marina, gavinmullins@hotmail.com 083 093 9724.

Convertible

Mercedes CLK 200 Cabriolet W-209 Brabus Package - seat 4. Excellent condition and fun to drive. 37,400km.

1,199,000 Bht. Eng - Thai 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL Bangkok law firm in Phuket

The Bangkok law firm PUGNATORIUS Ltd. provides its foreigner-focussed legal support and assistance through a trusted partner law firm in Phuket. For a protected corporate structure in full compliance with the law. For a comprehensive due diligence which truly lives up to its name. For a most efficient hotel business licensing process. For a more competitive design of the property development. The PUGNATORIUS advantage is badly needed at a place where foreign investments are typically built on sand. Protect your investment in paradise. phuket@pugnatorius.com, (00) +66 22 072 647

MEMBERSHIPS Blue canyon Golf membership

For sale at 250,000 baht, buyer pays transfer cost. 2017 dues not paid. Contact Ian Lancaster on 083 263 4590 or ilancast@me.com

Phuket Country Club Golf Membership

Golf membership for sale, includes transfer fee of 60,000 THB. 450,000, David, dsgrabham@yahoo.co.uk 087 881 7545.

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FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

MEMBERSHIPS Life Time Family Membership

Blue Canyon: 750,000 THB includes 140,000 transfer fee.

Loch Palms: 425,000 THB includes 72,000 transfer fee.

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for a Moving Company?

With over 15 years of experience Bigmove Phuket is the number 1 provider of moving and shipping in and out of Phuket Thailand. We provide storage in a state of the art clean, secure, storage facility located centrally in Phuket. www.bigmovephuket.com 081 797 5377.

OTHER SEARCHING FOR PAUL VAN DIJK

Searching for Paul Adraan van Dijk. The executors of the estate of Adraan Geurt van Dijk are searching for Paul Adraan Van Dijk, formerly of New Zealand (aged about 57 – born 15 June 1960 or 15 June 1961). Paul is believed to be residing in Thailand. Please contact the executors’ solicitor by email: nick@hjc.co.nz

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Need condo issues resolved?

We can help with condominium and estate-related, developer, management, non-compliance, Juristic Person issues. Structure (by-laws) register at land dept, provide CJP services, in-depth advice and organize, AGM/EGMs.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Phuket real estate tour

Real estate investment tours are specially designed to help you to achieve your investment goals with the right property in the right location. You will get advice on the multitude of lucrative investment opportunities in Phuket. md@tourasian.com 080 826 4665.

WEBSITES, IT For Sale: hoteldealsphuket.com

PHD has 125,000 pages indexed in Google and an average of 22,000 page views per month! See stats image. Also see the selling points on the link below. Quick sale: 33.000B!, Mark, mr.m.hopkins@gmail.com

PROPERTY FOR SALE Foreign freehold corner unit

76 sqm, sea and mountain view in Patong Tower, Patong. Reduced to 8.8mn. Special deal with car, info@sunny-property. com 083 105 2707.

New Sea View Villa

Premium villa 8B in the prestiques Sunrise Ocean Villas development is now for sale.

Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meter from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand Ao Po Marina, 10 mins from golf course, 20 mins from the airport, shopping centers, schools and hospitals, this villa is a perfect place to live with no traffic, no polution and no mass tourism.

Over 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quater, games room, 10 metre infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breath taking views. Can be ready to move in within 8 weeks and still can be customized to the wishes of new owner. For sale at only 27.9 mill baht.

For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha on: 081 343 0777 or email: montha_phuket@yahoo.com

Beautiful Land in Rawai For Sale

LAND FOR SALE IN RAWAI

4 Rai, 2ngn, 64tlw, total 7.456sq.meter. chanotte title. Near Shell Museum, 3 minute to Rawai Beach. Great for project. already have electric and road. Email: harrij@ loxinfo.co.th 36 MB, Harrij@loxinfo.co.th 089 731 0283.

COMMUNITY

085 790 2021.

Beautiful mountain view with option of sea view land of 742m2 for sale in Rawai with chanote title.

For more information contact

4 bedroom house in Chalong

4 king bedrooms (one with ensuite, the others with dedicated bathrooms), 5 bathrooms (1 with a bath, the other showers), Living room, Morning room (lounge/diner), 2 studies, Home cinema, 7 seater, DVD/CD library, 2 carports, 3 separate entrances (+ 5 French windows, a total of 8 exits).

Property is at the end of a quiet Soi near Big Buddha, no passing traffic. It overlooks a stream and jungle. The garden is 12 years old with bananas, papayas, mulberry bushes, cherry bushes, flowering plants and shrubs and several palm trees. There are frequent bird visitors…2 birdbaths. Just a few minutes drive from Tesco and Villa/Home Pro on Chao Fa West. Only 12 min drive to Central or big Tesco/Big C/Makro. 16.9MB (negotiable). Area of the site: 137.9 square wah (approx 560 square metres). To view, call 081 415 5522 or email m.allen.phuket@gmail.com

5 BED LUX SURIN VILLA FOR SALE

URGENT SALE BY OWNER: Reduced from THB28.9m to JUST THB16.750.000! MUST SEE! My luxury lake-side 5 bedroom pool villa is within a secure gated community and is only 5 minutes walk to Surin & Bang Tao beaches. A MUST SEE Villa, requiring a little upgrade, but is a TRUE bargain for anyone looking to enter Phuket’s most exclusive property market. Call owner(Cass)NOW on 0925 710 770 for viewing, or visit my web ad for full details: www. hoteldealsphuket.com 16.750.000, Cass, 0925 710 770 thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS 33

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Buy&Sell

PROPERTY FOR SALE HOUSE FOR SALE/RENT IN RAWAI

Land 620 sqm. 2 story with 4 bed & 2 Bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, 4 Air-con, big tropical garden with swimming pool, car park, Wi-Fi. In a very quiet area. For long lease 70,000 Baht/month. Email: harrij@loxinfo.co.th 11.9 MB Negotiable, Harrij@loxinfo.co.th 089 731 0283.

LUXURY GERMAN POOL VILLA

URGENT SALE BY OWNER: Luxury Villa, Floor Area 420m2 – Land Area 800m2 (Approx.), High perimeter wall with sliding gates, 6 Bedroom, 7 Bathroom, Maid- & Guest-App, Saltwater Pool with Jet-Stream, Spa with Sauna, Roof Top Jacuzzi & Massage Room, Chanote Freehold - Can be sold with holding company, Price: 18.9 mio Bath. Tel.: 062-9851024 Sandra Grunewald, 68/124 Kwang Road., 062-9851024.

LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Prime Kathu land with panoramic views and quiet location. Starts from 400sqm. Perfect for private Villa.

Close waterfall with more land plots and different beach!!!

Start from 2.5 MB, K. Pam, Phuketmyhouse@gmail.com +66 (0) 94 829 3619.

House for sale

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quite and safe area.

3 bedroom 2 bathroom open kitchen. 160 m2 Situated in Ban Pahra. 12 minutes to PIA, Phuket Airport, Nay Yang beach, and Blue Canyon Golf course. 2 min to Mission Hill Golf course. 7.5 million baht, bergsstigen@telia. com 090 701 4204.

House for sale

Good location in Chalong area. 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom, 200 sqm.

House on 800 sqm plot. Including furniture, 084 745 5546.

Apartment

1.65mill. 60qm 2bed 2bath + 30qm balcony, liv-kitchen, 3 a/c, quality doors/wind., Dream Village near mission hill golf, tel: 087 383 8709.

HERE IS THE FUTURE. 17 RAI FOR SALE

Between Kok Loi and Thai Muang, 38 km from the airport, we are selling a beautiful peice of land with 2 new houses. A perfect place for artists or a sport resort. The land is more than 17 Rai, full of old trees, with a big private lake and located directly behind the river. Chanote title. With a canoe it takes 20 min to paddle to the sea. A great opportunity for a fair price.

Price 9.5M, Yupin, residler@gmail.com 081 817 4805 Thai, Eng, Deutsch. @thephuketnews

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

PROPERTY FOR SALE LAND NEAR WATERFALL FOR SALE

Beautiful, gently sloping land for sale near Bang Pae waterfall. Good road, 3-phase power. NS3 paper (upgrade applied for). 7 rai, B4m/rai. 087 884 9964 (En) or 087 272 5594 (Th). alasdair.phuket@gmail.com

Ten Room Villa for sale

With 5 Rai land. 5 sleeping rooms, 5 bathrooms, 5 balconies, 2 kitchens, big living room, play room, lobby, car port. Hillside Maikhao Beach sunset seaview. Asking price 24 MB. julius_schuster2001@ yahoo.de 087 267 1192.

House for Sale

House at Land and House for sale. 2-storey with 3 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, balcony, jacuzzi, library, laundry. Near kids’ playground, two swimming pools, sauna, gym. Enough land to build a second house on the same plot. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

Land For Sale

Land for sale. Anuphas Golf Ville, Kathu. 81 sq wah. Golf course view of Phuket CC. Quiet village, convenient location. E-mail for details Contact David, d1jarvis@hotmail.com

House for Sale

3 bed, 2 bath, living/dining, Farang & Thai kitchens. Back/both sides under cover. Water fall/relax area.

BBQ area under cover/car port. 4 aircons/7 fans. Very private, close to all services, 500 meters from Heroines Monument. B4.9 mil. o.n.o. Contact Randy. randyalltime@gmail.com

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island.

A “snip” at 22m THB. Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com 081 979 1945.

Land For Sale at Kamala Beach

PRIME LOCATION LAND FOR SALE 3.3 RAI total 6,200 sq.m.

Chanote title. 5 minutes walk to Kamala Beach. Call: 081-4766431 Bow, 100/206-207 kamala, kathu, phuket, asakura_yo_26@hotmail.com, 081-4766431.

Property for sale

Large building near airport and sea view land near Bang Pae Waterfall for sale or lease. Any reasonable offers accepted. Lana, Lana.phuket@gmail.com 080 271 6484.

Apartment Country Golf Club House

One room with kitchen in main house Country Club. 6th floor with balcony 75sqm. Membership in Country Club included. Price 3.3 Million THB. Contact pzw@gmx.at Per Dompert, 086 043 4315 (English and German)

PROPERTY FOR SALE Land for sale in Saku - Phuket

1 to 5 Rai. Chanote. 10 mins south to the airport. Nice quiet location near Naiyang - Naithon Beach. Fixed price only 2.6Mil Baht per Rai. Kanchana, kanchanajit09@gmail.com 087 076 6016.

PROPERTY FOR RENT For Rent Per Month

KATA BEACH CENTER LUXERY APARTMENTS studio/one bedroom 60 sqm AND 2 bedrooms 140 SQM. FROM 18.000.B. PER MONTH. FOR INFO TEL/SMS 064 532 3637 e.mail:katainnphuket@yahoo.com

Amazing 5 Bed/Bath Villa Rawai

Stunning 5 Bed Pool Villa quiet and private location. Quality furn and fully equipped. Beautiful lounge/kitchen, very spacious with great pool.

90000 Baht per month, bricothailand@hotmail.com 081 271 7092.

House For sale or rent Baan Manik (Cherngtalay)

Attractive 3 bed, 2 bathroom detached house for sale or rent. Set in quiet surroundings but with easy access to Laguna, Boat avenue, PIA, airport, Surin, Bangtao and Layan beaches. The property boasts many additional features including, Auto-gate, Western-styled kitchen, security system, natural stone floors, imported ceiling fans, 12volt LED Garden Lighting and air-con throughout. Asking B4.5 Million Negotiable Rent 25K Per Month Fully furnished or 20K per month unfurnished.

081 9686 051.

Kata Western Apartment

1 and 2 115sqm furnished apartments, full kitchen, huge covered terraces, mountain and seaview.

1 month minimum, 1 year lease starting B20,000/month. gordy240@hotmail.com 084 840 1262.

Seaview apartment near Ao Po

Luxury 2-bedroom 137m2 furnished apar tment near Ao Po Marina.

Seaview, pool, Wi-Fi, TV, balcony, carport. B36,000/month lori@artandcultureasia.com +66(0)817207834.

Two condos for sale/rent

2 condos for sale 48 sqm. - sale price $60,000 (developer’s price $116,000) & 54.5 sqm. - sale price $70,000 (developer’s price $128,000). Fully furnished, near Central, Big C, BIS, Lotus, hospitals, schools. Communal pool and gym. Short & long time rent available: 48 sqm – THB 10,000-15,000 per month; 54.5 sqm – THB 15,000-20,000 per month + electricity & water. Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

SPORT 35

Surfing, fitness and dreams

Up-and-coming pro-surfer Sienna Marshall talks all things surf

O

ne day I wrote down my dream to be a ROXY girl and then I started doing everything I could to improve my surfing performance. Hayden would call that ‘focus’, and believe me, there is work and effort involved with any dream.

Luckily my family backed me 100%, so I am very blessed.

Thank you Mum, Dad and Zane.

There is something uniquely special about being on a beautiful beach and surfing with waves. Nothing compares to the way I feel when I surf – I am truly in love with surfing. It’s such a beautiful sport that connects you with nature, keeps you in great shape, and allows you to meet amazing people all around the world. Having a dream involved around what I love to do has been very powerful to consistently push my limits.

Surfing is physically and mentally demanding, especially surfing more powerful waves in crowded oceans. I am lucky that I can surf, a lot, yet specific surfing exercises help keep my body stronger, f lexible and balanced for surfing. In Bali I did some Yoga with Hayden – it was pretty intense. He reminded me though, that alignment is key to power development and fluidity of movement for life; especially for any athlete. He reminds all surfers that staying, ‘younger for longer’ and ‘injury prevention’ (especially as you age) are massive benefits of surfing fitness training.

Surf ing is a dynamic sport and the ocean is an ever changing medium. You never know what surfing is going to throw at you. Being surf-fit allows you to be in the right place at the right time to catch the best waves.

When you started out, why was paddling fitness important?

Paddling fitness is vital because you need to be a strong paddler to get out the back and to be able to catch waves. It’s also important to be able to get out of the way of other surfers!

Starting out – was it easy?

The hardest challenges I found when I first started to surf was learning how to duck dive under waves, reading the @thephuketnews

Sienna says that the ever changing playing field is what makes surfing the best sport in the world. ocean, and knowing which waves to take and which waves not to.

Surfing challenges and role models?

The most challenging thing for me would be making myself surf in all types of conditions, whether it be surfing over sharp shallow reefs, dealing with the unbelievable crowds at snapper, but most of all being a girl surfer; is getting waves in a crowded line up and having the respect of all the boys.

Your top five surfer?

My top five all time favourite surfers would be: Stephanie Gilmore, Lakey Peterson, Nikki Van Dijk, Tatiana Weston-Webb, and Tyler Wright. These five are my favourites because I love the way each of them surf and their power and speed that comes with it. Their personalities and dedication are inspiring too.

Is being able to hold your breath underwater important?

Absolutely yes! Especially when you are challenging yourself to surf bigger and bigger waves. Having the ability to hold your breath under extreme conditions gives you confidence in large and heavy surf.

Your ideal surfing holiday and crew?

Above all, I have always wanted to challenge myself in Hawaii as these are the most challenging waves in the world. I would love to share this experience with my dad and Brother.

What scares you about surfing?

Nothing really scares me about surfing, but if I have to name something that I dislike it would probably be; surfing alone, the possibility of sharks being around at some surf spots, and being held underwater by a wave for what seems like a long time.

Growing up with a surfing legend… how has your Dad influenced you? Is he like a coach? What’s the best surfing life lessons Dad taught you?

I guess the main influence is being taught that surfing is more of a lifestyle than just a sport. Yes, dad is my only coach, whether it be coaching me about ocean awareness, body dynamics, surf board design, and just surfing in general. Dad has taught me to respect those who respect you and always strive to improve yourself in all aspects of life, and to always be happy and friendly to all.”

Is surfing the greatest sport on earth? Why? Yes! 100%, surfing is the best sport on earth! Because the playing field is constantly changing and no two surfs are ever the same.

What does surfing teach you?

Surfing teaches me that believing in myself makes all the difference. What you believe you can do, is what you will be able to do. If you go out surfing with a negative attitude chances are you’ll have a bad surf.

With regard to performance and life; it’s not always the

strongest person, but the best informed that performs the best. In other words, for surfing; there is no substitute for hours spent in the ocean.

Future contests, what’s the goal?

To me, the competitive side of surfing is not necessarily the ‘be all and end all’.

So my future goals in surfing are to push myself further and further and to be the best I can possibly be.

Kicking Out… Surfing is an amazing sport, the whole lifestyle is pretty incredible. I’m so lucky to be able to travel at such a young age and surf world class waves. In Bali earlier this year I surfed with my brother Zane, Scott James and Hayden – that was a great experience. Surfing delivers so much more to my life and as long as I have it with me I will be one happy girl! It’s like Hayden say’s, surfing is our best medicine.

One day Sienna wrote down her dream of becoming a ‘Roxy’ girl, she is getting ever closer to reaching that dream.

Hayden Rhodes (Club Manager of Phukets Finest Health Club - RPM Health Club) is the creator of Surf Training Secrets.com and is known for his enthusiasm and lifelong love of health, fitness, personal development and surfing. He has been helping people improve their surfing and snowboarding around the

world for more then 20 years.

Hayden believes everyone has the ability to improve their lives and promotes health as much as he promotes fitness. He continues to study, surf and snowboard around the world and looks forward to helping you up grade your lifestyle. Visit SurfTrainingSecrets.com

36 SPORT

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Phuket take 3 vital points 1-0 win over Pattani leaves Dragon in promotion fighting place FOOTBALL

Phuket FC’s Apichart Denmham (10) scored his first goal of the season, and the winner, against Pattani FC. Photo: Phuket FC/ Facebook

Matt Pond editor3@thephuketnews.com

A

si ngle goal was enough to secure Phuket FC victory over promotion-fighting rivals Pattani FC last Saturday (May 13) leaving Phuket at 3rd in the Euro Cake Thai League 4, six points adrift table toppers Satun United and two points off 2nd placed Chumphon FC. Going into last Saturday’s game, the 11th of the 16 fixture season, the Andaman Dragon sat at 4th in the Euro Cake Thai League 4 table on 15 points while the visitors, The Queen Cannons, were at 2nd on 18.

Having only managed to pick up three points from a possible nine in their previous three outings it was vital that Phuket got back to winning ways to keep their promotion chances alive.

The winner of the Euro Cake Thai League 4 gains automatic promotion to the Thai League 3, while the 2nd placed team goes into a play-

off with the 2nd placed teams from the other five regional leagues for just a additional single promotion place.

In addition to a lack of points in previous games, a lack of goals was also a concern for the team as they have only scored one also in the last three outings, a big change having scored 15 in the first eight games of the season.

But a single wonder-goal from Apichart Denmham (10), his first of the season, in the 32nd minute of last Saturday’s game was enough to seal the win for Phuket.

Apichart picked up the ball on the left flank just outside of Pattani’s penalty box and with space to spare decided to take a shot, curling the ball into the top right corner of Pattani’s goal.

The team are now on a seven week break from league action with matches set to resume on July 1, and the five games which remain are all to be played within that month.

On Saturday July 1 the Andaman Dragon will travel to Chumphon for their away fixture at the IPE Chumphon Stadium, the home leg of that fixture was a goalless draw; they then have two home

P

W

D

L

F

1

Team Satun United

11

7

3

1

13

A GD Pts 6

7

24

2

Chumphon FC

11

5

5

1

10

5

5

20

3

Phuket FC

11

5

3

3

16

8

8

18

4

Pattani FC

11

5

3

3

10

5

5

18

5

Phatthalung FC

10

3

5

2

8

7

1

14

6

Hat Yai FC

11

3

4

4

9

11

-2

13

7

Yala United

10

3

3

4

12 12

0

13

8

Sungaipadee FC

10

1

3

6

6

15

-9

6

9

Surathanee City

11

1

1

9

7

22 -15

4

Date

Time

Match

Stadium

Sat July 1

4pm

Chumphon FC vs Phuket FC

IPE Chumphon Stadium

Sat July 8

6pm

Phuket FC vs Satun United

Surakul Stadium

Sun July 16

6pm

Phuket FC vs Hat Yai FC

Surakul Stadium

Wed July 19

6pm

Surat Thani City FC vs Phuket FC

Wiang Sa Stadium

Sun July 23

6pm

Phuket FC vs Phatthalung FC

Surakul Stadium

games against Satun United and Hat Yai FC on July 8 and 16 respectively before making their way to the Wiang Sa Stadium where they will take on Surat Thani City FC, the home leg of which saw Phuket romp to a 3-1 win; Phuket FC will then play their final game of the Euro Cake Thai League 4 season at home to Phatthalung FC on Sunday July 23.

Full Weekend Results Saturday May 13 Phuket FC

1-0

Pattani FC

Sunday May 14 Chumphon FC

2 - 0 Sungaipadee FC

Phatthalung FC 1 - 2 Surat Thani City FC

0-1

Satun United Hat Yai FC

The Phuket News and Khao Phuket are proud media sponsors of Phuket FC.

The surfboard relay race was one category in which the Phuket team won gold. Photo: Phuket Lifesaving Services

Lifeguards take golds at international life saving competition in Vietnam LIFESAVING T H R EE M EM BERS OF the Phuket Lifeguard Services who were sent to Vietnam to compete at the Danang International Life Saving Competition 2017 in Vietnam last Sunday (May 14) walked away with gold in the swim relay, surfboard relay and tube race categories of the event.

In addition, they also placed as 1st runner-up in the ironman team race and 1st runner in the overall competition.

Speaking to The Phuket News following the competition, Phuket Lifeguard Chief

Prathaiyuth Chuayuan said, “We sent three staff; Mr Somporn Wareekun, Mr Phongsathon Phennuang-Ong and Mr Athiwat Soithong to take part in the Danang International Life Saving Competition 2017 in Vietnam.

“I’m so excited that we managed to take the gold medals in the swim relay, surfboard relay and tube race, and that we also came 1st runner-up in the ironman team race.

“Moreover, coming 1st runner-up in the overall competition is a fantastic achievement for the team,” he said.

“I am proud of them all as they walked away with so many gold medals in this hard

fought competition.

“My next goal for the Phuket Lifeguard Service team is for them to enter the 2018 Lifesaving World Championships to be held in Adelaide, Australia from November 17 to December 2, 2018.

“This will be a great competition and a great chance for the staff to test their abilities in lifesaving with other lifesavers from around the world,” he added.

The Danang International Life Saving Competition 2017 was organised by the Danang Sport Office and saw 16 teams from several Asian countries compete.

Matt Pond thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Singha Phuket Open 2017

SPORT 37

All invited to Thailand Golf Tour’s newest competition GOLF

The gloves signed by former WBO welterweight champ Manny Pacquiao.

The Phuket News editor3@classactmedia.co.th

P

Manny signed gloves up for silent auction

huket Province and Laguna Golf Phuket golf course have been selected as the premier venues to host All Thailand Golf Tour 2017’s “Singha Phuket Open 2017” – a newly-launched professional golf competition organised by Sports Management Group (SMG) with Singha Corporation as the founding sponsor.

Aiming to expand “All Thailand Golf Tour” to Thailand’s leading tourism destination and promote Phuket Province as a sports tourism hub, Singha Phuket Open 2017 will be held from Thursday May 25 – Sunday May 28 at Laguna Golf Phuket as a cosanction golf event with Asian Development Tour (ADT).

It will see the top male and female professional players vying for over B2 million prize funds. First tee time starts at 7am daily with complimentary entry for the public.

On Wednesday May 17, Laguna Golf Phuket held a press conference to announce its official hosting of the inaugural Singha Phuket Open 2017.

The conference was addressed

by Mr Virat Patee, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand, Phuket, representing Phuket Governor; Mr Jakraphong “Jay” Thongyai, Commissioner, All Thailand Golf Tour; Mr

CHARITY

Mr Virat Patee, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand – 3rd from right; Mr Jakraphong Thongyai, Commissioner of All Thailand Golf Tour – centre; Mr Suang Chantra-Urai, Manager of Sports Promotion Department from Singha Corporation – 4th from right; Mr Ravi Chandran, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket – right; and Mr Paul Wilson, AVP Group Golf Director of Laguna Golf Phuket – left), organisation team and promising local junior players.

Suang Chantra-Urai, Manager, Sports Promotion Department, Singha Corporation; Mr Ravi Chandran, Managing Director, Laguna Phuket (official hotel partner) and Mr Paul Wilson, AVP, Group Golf Director representing Laguna Golf Phuket (official venue).

“We are pleased to announce that many of Thailand’s leading golf pros including Thaworn Wiratchant, 18-time winner and the most won in Asian Tour; Udorn Duangdecha, and Danthai Boonma, both Asian Tour Winners, will be competing in the Singha Phuket Open 2017 featuring over B2mn in prize funds,” said Mr Jakraphong “Jay”

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run: #1633 Saturday May 20 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Saint BJ, Tequila Slapper Location: Pa Khlok Directions: At the Heroines Monument turn East [4027] towards Pa Khlok and continue for approximately 7 kilometres. On the right there is a 7-Eleven on the corner of Soi Thala and the local market area is on the left. At the far end of the market area is a track going into the rubber.

HHH sign. Go on for about 200 metres and the Laager site is on the right in the clear area.

Note: Dogs must be kept under control at all times.

Bus Pickup Schedule: Patong @ Expat Hotel: 2.30pm Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 3pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

@thephuketnews

Thongyai, Commissioner of All Thailand Golf Tour. “I’d like to encourage all golf enthusiasts to come cheer for the esteemed golf pros.”

Representing the Phuket Governor, Mr Virat Patee, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand, Phuket, said, “Being the venue host of many national and international sporting events, Phuket province sees great potential in becoming a regional sports hub in the very near future. We hope the Singha Phuket Open will become another annual event to heighten Phuket’s status as a leading sports tourism destination.”

“With the world-class golf

course and facilities, excellent condition and Asian hospitality along with our newly upgraded PGA-branded Laguna Golf Academy, we are all geared to welcoming the professional golfers of the first Singha Phuket Open,” said Mr Paul Wilson, AVP, Group Golf Director.

“There will also be several home-grown golfers playing in the tournament, emphasising Laguna Golf Phuket and Asian Development Tour’s shared commitment of developing the game in Asia and inspiring junior golfers by providing great platforms for them to learn and grow,” he added.

“Being a part of the inau-

gural Singha Phuket Open in 2017 is very special for Laguna Phuket as we celebrate our 30th anniversary this year,” said Mr Ravi Chandran, Managing Director of Laguna Phuket, Singha Phuket Open’s Official Hotel Partner.

“As Asia’s premier destination resort, this partnership resonates our development from an integrated resort to a preferred lifestyle destination for vacations and keynote events including the annual Laguna Phuket International Marathon and Laguna Phuket Triathlon. Many guests have thus made Laguna Phuket their permanent home,” he concluded.

CALLING ALL SPORTS fans and enthusiasts.

The Drunken Leprechaun Phuket’s 2nd year anniversary is approaching and they are delighted to announce that they will be holding a silent auction for an authentic pair of boxing gloves signed by former WBO welterweight champion “Manny Pacquiao”.

To register a bid please contact The Drunken Leprechaun Phuket Facebook page or email Events.PhuketPatong@swissotel.com and include your bid and contact details.

Bidders will receive confirmation of their bid and will also be informed if they have been outbid at any time.

The winner of the silent auction will be announced at 6pm this Sunday (May 21).

All proceeds raised from all activities celebrating The Drunken Leprechaun Phuket 2nd year anniversary will be donated to “The Destination Kids Foundation”.

This is an opportunity not to be missed, happy bidding!

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

Hamilton the pain in Spain Win in spectacular GP leaves driver six points behind in standings Mercedes’ British driver Lewis Hamilton celebrates winning the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix on Sunday (May 14). Photo: Josep Lago/AFP

BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

L

ewis Hamilton closed his championship deficit to just six points after seizing a strategic win in a superb Spanish Grand Prix.

The Mercedes driver had scored Briton’s 250th pole position in qualifying, but he immediately lost the lead to Sebastian Vettel’s Ferrari at the start.

From that point Hamilton and the pit wall worked together to get his car back into a race-winning position, using strategy, raw pace and a touch of luck to overhaul the leader.

Mercedes pressured Ferrari to stop earlier than it wanted to, which required Vettel to lap faster than he would otherwise have had to – but Mercedes left Valtteri Bottas out on worn tyres to slow down the German, preventing him from

escaping too far up the road from Hamilton.

Better still for the Hamilton was that Vettel was using up the grippier soft tyre trying to navigate around the other Mercedes car. The opposite would be true at the end of the race, when Hamilton would have the faster compound to attack Vettel on the slower rubber.

Here luck came into play: a clumsy crash by rookie Stoffel

Vandoorne triggered a virtual safety car, enabling Hamilton to make his final pit stop while losing minimal time.

The caution period had ended by the time Ferrari had stopped Vettel, meaning the German’s hard-earned gap over Hamilton was wiped out.

But the job still had to be done on the track, and after some robust defending on Vettel’s part, Hamilton managed

No French wildcard for Sharapova TENNIS TWO-TIME CHAMPION Maria Sharapova will miss Roland Garros this year after the French tennis federation denied her a wild card, FFT president Bernard Guidicelli said on Tuesday (May 16).

The former world number one, who only returned from a 15-month doping ban last month, will sit out the French Open, which she won in 2012 and 2014, for the second year in a row.

“Nobody can deprive her of her two titles at Roland Garros, but today I can’t grant her the wild card requested,” Guidicelli said on Facebook Live.

Russia’s Maria Sharapova in action at the ATP Tennis Open tournament Photo: Andreas Solaro/AFP “The titles won here, she won within the rules without owing anything to anyone.

“While wild cards exist for players returning from injury, there is nothing for a return from a doping ban,” he added.

The five-time Grand Slam champion was banned for two years for using meldonium,

with the penalty later reduced by the Court of Arbitration for Sport which ruled she was not an intentional doper.

After the ban expired on April 26, the Russian returned to competition at the Stuttgart Open, reaching the semi-finals, and progressed to the last 32 of the Madrid Open, too late to earn herself a qualifying spot for Paris.

“I am very sorry for Maria, and very sorry for her fans. They might be very disappointed and she might be disappointed. But it is my responsibility and my mission to respect the high standards of the game to be played without any doping,” said Guidicelli.

AFP

to sneak past in the Ferrari’s slipstream on lap 44.

“I think it was the rawest fight I can remember having for some real time,” Hamilton said. “This is what the sport needs to be every single race.

“This is why I race and this is what got me into racing in the beginning. To have that close battle with [Sebastian], with a four-time champ, is awesome,” Hamilton said.

Vettel was gracious in defeat, knowing his title lead remained intact after such a difficult grand prix.

“He won it fair and square, so I can’t take it away from him,” he said. “Obviously I’m not happy because … [the win] was there.

“I think the car was good, nothing to blame there. So I think it’s still a very, very good result.”

But while Hamilton and Vettel stole headlines, teammates Valtteri Bottas and Kimi Räikkönen suffered anonymous weekends.

Bottas struck Räikkönen at the first turn, sending the Ferrari careering into Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen, ending both their races on the spot.

Valtteri was able to drive on, but a mid-race engine failure put paid to an assured third place.

But from their issues came Daniel Ricciardo’s first podium of the season for Red Bull Racing.

Ricciardo’s team has thus far been too slow to compete for victory but too fast to be threatened by the midfield teams, so with his teammate crashed out, the Australian was in a disappointing race of one in Spain.

“As Lewis touched on, that’s a big part of why we race: we want to have these battles and fights,” Ricciardo said. “I’m envious, not to be part of that, but we’re going to try to work on it.”

A raft of upgrades in Barcelona promised to bring Red Bull Racing closer to front, and though the car’s pace improved in qualifying, it nonetheless finished 75 seconds off the lead in the 66-lap race.

Further tweaking will therefore be required ahead of next weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix on May 28, a race in which the team has only once failed to finish on the podium since 2010.

Tune in to Live89.5 every Saturday from 9am for the Box of Neutrals radio show.

England begin Six Nations title defence against Italy RUGBY UNION ENGLAND WILL START the defence of their Six Nations title away to Italy, it was announced Tuesday (May 16) after organisers published the fixtures for both the 2018 and 2019 Championships.

Eddie Jones’s men begin their 2018 campaign in Rome on February 4 against an Italy side who, although they finished bottom and without a win, briefly caused England problems with their ‘no-ruck’ ploy at Twickenham during this season’s Six Nations.

England are then at home to Wales before travelling to Edinburgh for a Calcutta Cup clash against Scotland and playing France away before concluding their Championship at home to Ireland on March 17 – the middle game of ‘Super Saturday’ when all six teams are in action.

Ireland, who denied England back-to-back Grand Slams this year, begin their Six Nations away to France on February 3 with Wales

England coach Eddie Jones Photo: Ben Stansall/AFP at home to Scotland on the same day.

The Championship has remained a seven-week competition, with rest weeks after the second and third rounds, despite the likes of England’s 2003 World Cupwinning coach Clive Woodward calling for it to be shortened into a five-week event to better replicate what happens at rugby union’s major global tournament.

The 2019 fixture list also has England away to Ireland on the opening weekend – a potentially key game in deciding the title-winners.

Friday night rugby remains a part of the competition in both seasons, with

France hosting Italy in 2018 and Wales in 2019.

The final round of matches on March 16, 2019 sees Italy at home to France, Wales welcoming Ireland to Cardiff and England taking on Scotland at Twickenham.

“We are delighted to confirm the fixture dates for the 2018 Championship, coming shortly after a record-breaking 2017 edition,” Six Nations Rugby chairman Pat Whelan said in a statement.

“We enjoyed record figures across TV and digital and look forward to continuing that trend over the next two seasons.”

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM MONTHLY SPONSOR

MAIN SPONSOR

The overall competition winner receives a two day/one night private fishing charter to Racha Island on board Wahoo Yacht Charters Phuket’s Reel Blue. Total prize value: B180,000 The monthly competition winner for May 2017 will receive a B3,000 voucher to spend at Angus O'Toole's Irish Pub in Karon.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

OVERALL STANDINGS

carst 18 diggersd 18 The Red Card Gang 18 fazza 17 scottkip 17

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

The Red Card Gang 218 carst 213 phils64 213 scottkip 213 Sidwell Guduka 212

English Premier League 2016 - 2017 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday (May 16). Photo: Adrian Dennis/AFP

8 9 10

Wenger won’t give up in top four race FOOTBALL AFP

A

rsene Wenger insists Arsenal can still salvage their turbulent season by defying the odds to snatch a Champions League place on the final day.

Wenger’s side kept alive their faint hopes of qualifying for Europe’s elite club competition as Alexis Sanchez’s double clinched a 2-0 win over relegated Sunderland on Tuesday (May 16).

The Gunners’ sixth victory in their last seven games leaves them in 5th place, one point behind 4th-placed Liverpool and three adrift of 3rd-placed Manchester City.

For Arsenal to avoid missing out on the Champions League for the first time in 20 years, they must beat Everton at home on Sunday (May 21), while hoping for a slip from either Liverpool or City.

If Liverpool beat relegated Middlesbrough and City avoid defeat at Watford, then Arsenal are consigned to the Europa League, but Wenger hasn’t given up yet.

“We want to get in there, let’s give ourselves every chance,” he said. “If you have only a one percent chance you still have to give everything.

“I think we have a good chance. If we win we know the most we will be behind @thephuketnews

is one point, so let’s see what happens.”

At the conclusion of a season that only served to underline how far Arsenal have declined in recent years, Wenger knows missing out on the top four would be the last straw for a large section of his club’s disenchanted supporters.

There were swathes of empty seats at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday as fans stayed away in protest at Wenger’s failings and the indignity of spending their Thursday nights trekking to unglamorous destinations in the Europa League would be the final straw.

Wenger has yet to confirm if he will remain in charge next season, but despite his team’s predicament, he opted to take a swipe at the critics who have ridiculed his pride in leading Arsenal into the Champions League for the last 19 years.

“I answered for 20 years the question that being in the top four is not a big deal,” he said.

“I’m surprised all of a sudden it becomes a big deal. We can talk and talk, at the end let’s make 75 points. It would be one of our best in the last 10 years.

“We won more games than last year and we have one point more already.”

Asked if he and the players were affected by the large

number of stay-away fans, Wenger said he wasn’t surprised by the low attendance.

“No, it’s Tuesday night against Sunderland, everyone expects us to win,” he said.

“I didn’t count the number of empty seats. We do our job, we have shown that again.

“We play because we want to win and we enjoy playing football.”

If Arsenal do miss out on the Champions League, Wenger has already pinpointed the cause; a series of damaging away defeats.

“We shouldn’t have lost at West Brom and Palace, that is where we lost our chance,” he said.

“At Man City as well we were really unlucky with some decisions.”

Arsenal are only in with a shout of the top four thanks to Sanchez, who played through

the pain of a thigh injury to see off Sunderland, emphasising how much they need him to sign a new contract.

“I didn’t decide to play him until four in the afternoon today,” Wenger said.

“Once he is on the pitch and has the ball he becomes a devil and forgets his pain.

“He has become a top class player here. He has not wasted his time. Hopefully he will be here a long time.”

Meanwhile, Sunderland manager David Moyes took umbrage at Wenger’s suggestion this week that Arsenal’s top four rivals benefited from playing teams with their minds on their holidays.

“That’s an insult to footballers. I’d hate anyone questioning whether we would chuck a game,” Moyes said.

“I don’t think Sunderland did that tonight, we had a go.”

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Team

MP W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

Chelsea Tottenham Hotspur Manchester City Liverpool Arsenal Manchester United Everton Southampton West Brom Bournemouth Leicester City West Ham United Crystal Palace Stoke City Burnley Watford Swansea City Hull City Middlesbrough Sunderland

37 36 37 37 37 36 37 36 37 37 36 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37 37

3 8 9 10 6 14 10 9 9 9 7 9 5 11 7 7 5 7 13 6

5 4 6 6 9 5 10 15 16 16 17 17 20 16 19 19 21 21 19 25

80 73 75 75 74 52 61 41 42 54 46 45 50 40 38 40 43 36 27 28

32 24 39 42 43 29 41 47 49 66 56 63 61 56 53 63 69 73 50 64

48 49 36 33 31 23 20 -6 -7 -12 -10 -18 -11 -16 -15 -23 -26 -37 -23 -36

90 80 75 73 72 65 61 45 45 45 43 42 41 41 40 40 38 34 28 24

29 24 22 21 22 17 17 12 12 12 12 11 12 10 11 11 11 9 5 6

Premier League prediction competition scores and league table correct at time of going to press.

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT START STOP Friday May 19

Rugby Union 14:30 23:55 Rugby League 16:40 18:45 Aussie Rules 16:30 Cricket 21:20 Saturday May 20 Rugby Union 14:30 16:40 18:50 22:10 00:25 Rugby Union 15:00 21:30 Rugby Union 20:30 23:15 Soccer 20:00 Aussie Rules 10:30 13:30 16:30 Sunday May 21 Aussie Rules 10:00 13:30 Rugby League 15:30 Rugby Union 14:30 20:30 Cricket 21:20 Rugby Union 13:00 Soccer 21:00 21:00

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

16:35 02:00 18:40 20:40 19:30 00:20

Super Rugby Super Rugby NRL NRL AFL IPL - Qual 2

Chiefs v. Crusaders Stormers v. Blues Broncos v. Tigers Warriors v. Dragons Geelong Cats v. Western Bulldogs Bangalore

16:30 18:30 20:45 00:10 02:20 19:30 01:00 22:30 01:15 22:30 13:30 16:30 19:30

Super Rugby Super Rugby Super Rugby Super Rugby Super Rugby Rugby Sevens Rugby Sevens Aviva Prem SF1 Aviva Prem SF2 EFL Play-Off AFL AFL AFL

Hurricanes v. Cheetahs Western Force v. Highlanders Sunwolves v. Sharks Lions v. Bulls Kings v. Brumbies HSBC Finals - London HSBC Finals - London Exeter v. Saracens Wasps v. Leicester Bradford v. Millwall St Kilda v. Sydney Swans GWS Giants v. Richmond Collingwood v. Hawthorn

13:00 16:30 17:30 18:20 23:00 00:20 15:00 23:00 23:00

AFL AFL NRL Rugby Sevens Rugby Sevens IPL - Final Super Rugby EPL EPL

Essendon v. West Coast Eagles Fremantle v. Carlton Rabbitohs v. Storm HSBC Finals - London HSBC Finals - London Hyderabad Waratahs v. Rebels Arsenal v. Everton Liverpool v. Middlesbrough

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017

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