19-08-2016

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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Beaches close as dangerous surf kills Russian

THE SOUTH LIFE

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Back to school at Gecko Nursery

DNA from an undetonated firebomb safely recovered at a Patong market provided a direct link to a Deep South fugitive bomb maker. Photos: Eakkapop Thongtub

DNA FROM PHUKET BOMB LEADS TO WARRANT FOR DEEP SOUTH INSURGENT Darawan Naknakhon editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he arrest warrant issued for a key suspect in the spate of bombing and arson attacks last Friday (Aug 12) that killed four people and injured 36 others throughout Southern Thailand was issued after DNA from a bomb in Phuket matched that of a known insurgent in the Deep South.

Royal Thai Police Deputy Com-

mander Gen Sriwara Rangsipramanakul broke the news on Tuesday night (Aug 16) after f lying in to Phuket to visit Patong and re-assure the public that police were making “good progress” in tracking down the bombers who staged attacks throughout Southern Thailand.

Four people died and 36 were injured in the 13 bomb and arson attacks, carried out in seven Southern Thailand provinces.

Gen Sriwara arrived in Patong at

7:30pm and was joined by Lt Gen Suchart Theerasawas of the Region 8 Police, who is leading the bomb investigation in Phuket, before joining Gen Suchart’s team of investigators for a briefing.

“The investigation for Phuket has made a lot of progress,” Gen Sriwara said.

“Today the military court of the 41st Army Circle in Nakhon Sri Thammarat issued a warrant of arrest for one suspect after tests showed

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@thephuketnews

SPORT DNA samples collected at the bomb scenes in Phuket clearly matched the DNA of a suspect involved in attacks around Tak Bai in Narathiwat since 2004,” he said.

“Details of the suspect and our findings about him are confidential,” he added.

However, news broke on Wednesday morning that the warrant issued was for Ahama Leng-ha, a resident of Narathiwat’s Tak Bai district and a suspected separatist wanted...

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Rescue workers assist a rescued crew member as he is brought back to shore. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

One dead, four missing as boat capsizes in storm THE SEARCH FOR FOUR missing crewmen from a capsized fishing boat south of Phuket continued yesterday morning (Aug 18) after four of the crew had been rescued, but the captain had died at sea.

The Bumrungthainawa 1 fishing boat capsized in heavy seas about two nautical miles southwest of Phuket at about 8pm on Monday (Aug 15) with nine people, the Thai captain and eight Myanmar migrant workers, on board.

A passing fishing boat, the P. Chokpaisan, rescued three crewman – named only as Aomachu, 26; Jamayu, 30; Mackha, 34 – from the water Tuesday morning (Aug 16).

However, the boat’s captain, 58-year-old Prayad Klaewglaharn, did not survive.

His body was also recovered by the P. Chokpaisan.

A fifth crew member was rescued from the water south

of Koh Maithon by another fishing boat, the Sor Samuth, at 11:55am Tuesday.

Capt Pongjak Uraiman, Commanding officer of Naval Air Squadron Third Fleet Area Command, confirmed to The Phuket News that the search was continuing as of Thursday morning.

The Royal Thai Navy searescue helicopter search team was dispatched at first light on Tuesday after the Navy boat Tor 113 failed to find the Bumrungthainawa 1 in heavy seas on Monday night.

The Navy vessel Tor 993 joined the search on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“If we do not find them today we will go to look for them at the small islands located in the expanded search area tomorrow,” Capt Pongjak said on Wednesday (Aug 17).

Eakkapop Thongtub and Tanyaluk Sakoot

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Consumer rights chief questions Ace Condo charges delay > page 6

Phuket bomb DNA gives police lead for warrants Continued from page 1 ...in connection with several violent incidents in the Deep South. (See page 9.)

Ahama Leng-ha is now wanted for assembling the bombs used in the attacks carried out last Friday.

“Once the evidence is all clear we will get warrants for other people involved in the attacks. I cannot tell you now how many we will arrest, but we will bring them all to face justice,” Gen Sriwara said.

“Regarding the mobile phones used in the attacks suspected of being imported from a neighbouring country, we cannot discuss this matter.

It involves international relations. We are investigating this, but if this leads to the perpetrators, we are ready to bring them in,” Gen Sriwara noted.

However, in a follow-up report already marking that Thai police had sought assistance from Malaysian police in investigating the SIM card used in one of the devices found in Phuket, Malaysia state news agency Bernama on Tuesday had already reported that Malaysian police had found no conclusive evidence the SIM or the phone used in the

From the two bombs in Patong on Aug 12, the police box at the end of Bangla Rd suffered little damage and there was no damage at all at Loma Park. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Phuket attacks originated in Malaysia.

“We have examined the SIM card and also the handphone but so far there is not enough evidence that the card is from us (Malaysia),” Bernama quoted Malaysian Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar as saying.

Meanwhile, Gen Sriwara called for people to remain calm.

“I want residents and tourists not to worry about whether the suspects will be arrested, they will. Police officers are doing their best and we will

find the mastermind behind these attacks,” he said.

After meeting with the Phuket investigators, Gen Sriwara visited Paradise Plaza on Rat U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, where an unexploded device was found last Sunday (Aug 14) and the police box on Bangla Rd, where one of the two bombs in Phuket detonated last Friday.

“The investigation has showed a lot of progress, but we still have a lot to do in gathering all relevant information to bring all suspects in as soon as possible,” Gen Sriwara said.

“We questioned more than

10 key witnesses and question about 40 people who happened to be in those affected areas,” he added.

“Officers also checked each CCTV carefully and they still have more footage to review, but so far some CCTV cameras have captured the faces of suspects very clearly. We will close our investigation soon,” Gen Sriwara concluded.

Phuket suffered only one casualty in the explosions of what are now being called “micro-bombs”. Somboon Kaikaew, 41, a Patong motorcycle taxi driver, suffered an injury to his right arm.

Security guard rewarded for bravery Kamthon Kedkaeo rewarded for removing the fire bomb.

THE PATONG SECURITY guard whose quick action removed a potential explosive device from a shopping plaza in Patong last Wednesday (Aug 10) has been rewarded

with B50,000 for his bravery.

Kamthon Kedkaeo, a native of Krabi, quickly removed the device, bundled up in a plastic bag tied to a rail at the China Town Plaza on

Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd, after a Nepalese man had pointed it out to him at about 6:40pm.

After opening the bag and seeing a mobile phone with wires attached to a gel pack, Mr Kamthon placed the bag in a water bucket and ran it to the middle of the car park, about 50 metres away.

“Mr Kamthorn is a hero,” said Patong business magnate Preechawut “Prab” Keesin of the Pisona Group.

“If Mr Kamthorn did not remove the suspicious item, it could have started a fire like those in other provinces (during the Aug 12 attacks),” he added.

“I am pleased to praise and honour him for doing a good deed. Our company will give him a B50,000 reward as a present and moral support for a good citizen,” Mr Prab said.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Hundreds of Patong staff and residents joined the parade on Monday (Aug 15). Photo: PEBA

Patong rallies for bomb awareness The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

H

undreds of staff and residents turned out for a parade along Bangla Rd late Monday afternoon (Aug 15) organised by the Patong Entertainment Business Association (PEBA) and led by PEBA President Weerawit Kuresombat.

Members of the parade carried banners that read “Patong City will be stronger” and “Pray for stronger Patong”.

As part of the mass event, Patong Mayor Chalermluck Kebsup strolled along Bangla Rd and handed out leaflets to tourists explaining how to spot a bomb and what to do if people, including tourists, found a “suspicious item”.

Key points in the leaflets were to not handle any suspect items, and to report any suspect packages by calling the police national hotline 191 or

the Tourist Police hotline 1155.

Alternatively, people can call the Patong branch of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) at 076-321321 or 076-342769.

The campaign to hand out the bomb awareness guides to tourists was to continue for three days, explained Mayor Chalermluck.

“Police will coordinate with shops, pubs, bars and restaurants on Bangla Rd. We have to increase awareness of the incident among people.

We fully support the officers who are on duty 24 hours to keep us safe,” she said.

“I want people and tourists to place their trust in us, that we are here to provide safety and support,” Mayor Chalermluck added.

Earlier that day, Royal Thai Police Region 8 Commander Lt Gen Tesa Siriwato, who is based at the Region 8

headquarters in Mai Khao at the northern end of Phuket, told the press during a visit to Nakhon Sri Thammarat that police have boosted security in “risk areas”.

Extra patrols have been ordered in all affected areas, including Phang Nga and Phuket, and especially in tourist attraction areas, Gen Tesa said.

Gen Tesa called on “communities” to be vigilant and said that he had ordered officers to specifically focus on small hotels in the move to prevent further bombings.

Gen Tesa also called on vendors to be extra wary and to regularly check their own stalls to prevent bombers from planting devices in dense market areas.

“For example, vendors should check for devices inside bags for sale in the store and in stacks of clothes,” he said.

Bus crashes on Patong Hill, fire averted A RUNAWAY TOUR BUS crashed on Patong Hill last Friday morning (Aug 12), leaving several Chinese tourists with broken limbs.

The bus careened off the road in front of the Patong City sign at about 10:40am.

There were 27 Chinese tourists – 14 women and 13 men – on board the bus, a rescue worker told The Phuket News.

“Two men suffered broken arms and a woman suffered a broken leg,” the rescue worker said.

All of the tourists on the bus were taken to Vachira @thephuketnews

Two Chinese men suffered broken arms and a Chinese woman suffered a broken leg as the bus crashed on Patong Hill. Photo: Yingyot Chetwichain, Acting Director, DDPM - Kathu District Phuket Hospital in Phuket Town, he added.

“When we arrived sparks coming from the engine bay, but we managed to extinguish them and prevent any fire

from breaking out,” the rescue worker said.

“Emergency workers are now working on safely recovering the bus from its position high on the hill,” he added.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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One in a million All you need to know about winning the Thai Lottery There are also smaller prizes as follows: - First three digits – B2,000 (two prizes available).

- Last three digits – B2,000 (two prizes available).

- Last two digits - B1,000 (one winning pair).

There used to be “jackpot” prizes, also called “First Prize Bonus” prizes of B30 million and B22 million, but these prizes are no longer offered.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

SALES MANAGER Jittiya (Tiya) Rakdej 088 754 1371

salesmgr@classactmedia.co.th

SALES SUPPORT Siriporn (Nok) Seangmas 086 479 7470 sales@classactmedia.co.th

SALES REPRESENTATIVE Somsong (Chompu) Radabut 088 765 5883 sales1@classactmedia.co.th

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QUESTION

I am an expat living in Phuket and wondering what is the deal with the Thai lottery. Can you explain to me the rules for Thai lottery? Can anyone buy a lottery ticket, including foreigners? Where can I buy a ticket and who is allowed to sell them. Do I need prove if I win, and where do I claim my prize?

It was reported last year that GLO scrapped jackpot prizes for getting right not only six digits but also two additional ones. This bonus prize could bring a lucky person some B20-30 million instead of B4-6 million. Have these prizes really been cancelled?

Also, there used to be two types of Thai lottery tickets: Thai Government Lottery (TGL) and Thai Charity Lottery (TCL) tickets. TGL tickets had a first prize of B2 million and a bonus prize of B30 million, while TCL tickets had a first prize of B3 million, a bonus prize of B22 million.

But now I can see only one type of ticket available for sale.

Can you clarify what types of tickets are offered now?

– Cheryl, Pa Khlok.

ANSWER

Any person, Thai or foreign, of at least 20 years of age can play and win prizes in the Thai government lottery.

This year we have not held a Thai Charity Lottery yet. The Thai Charity Lottery is a “special project” lottery launched each time for a specific charity under special ministerial approval.

The last one ended last yar, and so far we have not had another one this year. When the Ministry of Finance orders us to hold another one, we will make a public announcement.

For the Thai Government Lottery, there are two draws each month, with the results announced on the 1st and 16th

Twice a month, one of a million numbers could be your lucky one. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot. of every month. Prizes must be claimed within two years of the draw

claim any prizes for unsold tickets that have winning numbers that they bought from us.

VENDORS

TICKETS

Only Thais registered with the GLO are permitted to sell lottery tickets. All vendors must be at least 20 years old.

There are nearly 35,000 registered lottery vendors in the country, with more than 15,000 in Bangkok and more than 19,000 in the provinces.

A list of all the registered ticket vendors is posted on the GLO website. Details of the registered vendors by province can be found at http://echannel. glo.or.th.

We are now working on posting all details of all vendors in Thailand, including where each vendor sells their tickets, on our website. Please check website for when that becomes available.

Any person can actually sell the tickets on behalf of a registered vendor, but usually registered vendors issue their subvendors with copies of the official ID card to allow them to sell lottery tickets.

If you have a doubts or feel comfortable buying a ticket from a particular vendor, you can always choose another vendor or check the tickets they are selling very carefully to make sure they are genuine.

If you want to report any vendors, or if you want to become a vendor, contact us through www.glo.or.th or call us at 02-3451466.

A point to note is that as vendors technically buy the tickets from us, vendors can

Each lottery ticket features a six-digit number. To deter people from printing counterfeit lottery tickets, the tickets are printed on special yellow, thin, smooth paper and feature a two-tone watermark of a mythical bird called a Wayupak in Thai.

Also, there are two types of silk thread in the paper. One can be seen with the naked eye, the other can be seen only under ultra-violet light.

Further, the paper is coated with chemicals. To test the paper, drops of bleach will show stains. Without the special chemicals, the paper will not show any blots or stains.

Please note that the main image printed in normal ink changes for each lottery draw.

For example, lottery tickets for the August 16 draw feature an image of Phra Pharuehatsabodi to celebrate Thai ‘Khon’ masks as used in the Phi Ta Khon Festival held in Loei province every year.

Please check our website to see what the images are for the next upcoming lottery draws to make sure the tickets you buy are genuine.

TICKET PRICES

Lottery tickets are sold in “pairs”, and cost B80 per pair. The price is set by law, so please report any vendors charging more than this by calling us at 02-3451466 or contacting us through our

website complaint form via our website www.glo.or.th.

PRIZES TO BE WON

We print tickets for a million numbers for each lottery. Most times we print five “pairs” of each number, but sometimes we print six “pairs” to increase the chance of winning bigger prizes.

The reason why tickets are sold in pairs is so that the winner can “detach” one half of the pair and share it as a prize with another person.

First prize is B3 million per ticket stub, hence with one “pair” you will win B6 million. The more “pairs” you buy, the greater the prize you will win. The same applies for all prizes to be won.

There are separate draws for other major prizes, as follows: Second prize – B100,000 (5 prizes available) – Matching six digits in the second prize draw.

Third prize – B40,000 (10 prizes available) – Matching six digits in the third prize draw.

Fourth prize – B20,000 (50 prizes available) – Matching six digits the fourth prize draw Fifth prize – B10,000 (100 prizes available) – Matching six digits in the fifth prize draw.

There are also the special prizes, as follows: - The ticket number above the winning first-prize number – B50,000.

- The ticket number below the winning first-prize number – B50,000.

CLAIM YOUR PRIZE

Any prizes of B20,000 or less can be claimed in cash from the vendor who sold you the winning ticket. Any prizes over B20,000 must be claimed in person at the GLO head office at 359 Nonthaburi Rd, Tambon Tha Sai, Muang District, Nonthaburi, where you will receive a cheque for your winnings. This cannot be done in Phuket, as there is no GLO office there.

Our office is open from 8:30am to 3pm (open during lunch), Monday through Friday (closed on public holidays).

To claim your prize, fill out a claim form, fill out the details on the back of the winning tickets and take a queue number. When called, you will have to present the winning ticket/s and your Thai ID card or passport (for foreigners).

Please note that all winners are subject to pay 0.5% stamp duty on government lottery winnings and 1% stamp duty on charitable lottery winnings.

The stamp duty is payable on all winnings, including for prizes of B20,000 or less paid in cash by vendors, who are required to collect – and pay – the stamp duty on the winners’ behalf.

For full details on how to claim your prize call the Department of Prize Payment at 02-5289621 or visit www.glo. or.th. If you win a major prize, it is strongly recommended that you report your winning tickets to the nearest police station as soon as possible to prevent any thieves from falsely claiming your prize.

– Marketing, Government Lottery Office, Nonthaburi. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Beaches closed after storm surf claims life

PHUKET NEWS

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The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

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ifeguards this week closed five beaches along the west coast of Phuket as blustery storm conditions saw waves up to three metres tall claim the life of one Russian man and quick action by beach guards saving the lives of two Chinese tourists in Patong and another at Kata.

The Phuket Lifeguard Service closed the beaches at Mai Khao, Naithorn, Surin, Laem Sing and Karon on Tuesday (Aug 16) due to the dangerous waves.

“The entire beaches are blocked off with red f lags with ropes blocking certain areas. Although the beaches are closed, we still have beach guards stationed there to keep people out of the water,” said Phuket Lifeguard Service Chief Prathaiyuth Chuayuan.

“Please listen to beach guards, we want everyone to be safe while visiting our beaches,” he added.

At the time of going to press, the five beaches were expected to remain closed until at least Saturday (Aug 20).

“There are some areas where tourists can still enter the water. The sections of beaches at Nai Harn, Kata, Patong, Kamala, Nai Yang and some parts of Bang Tao are open and welcome all swimmers,” Mr Prathaiyuth explained.

“But please, swim between the red-and-yellow flags only,” he urged.

“We are serious about keeping tourists safe until the weather is better for swimming at the beach,” he added.

The beach closures and the posting of the red flags to prevent swimmers from entering the dangerous surf follows the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issuing a weather warning for Phuket and the Andaman Coast warning of strong waves and heavy rain from Sunday through to Thursday (Aug 18).

However, the move to close dangerous surf spots to beachgoers came as a Russian tourist fell victim to the strong waves at Karon Beach on Sunday (Aug 14).

The tourist, 50-year-old Sergey Nedelin, was taken to Patong Hospital after lifeguards recovered him from strong surfs attempted to resuscitate him on the sand.

Lifeguards stationed at the beach said the man had @thephuketnews

Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada will become Governor of Nakhon Sri Thammarat on Oct 1.

Governor slated to move down South

Attempts by lifeguards to revive Russian national Sergey Nedelin, 50, on the sand at Kata were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Patong Hospital. Photo: Royal Thai Navy Sea Rescue Centre. ignored red flags – indicating “no swimming” – and entered the water near the Naga statue, about halfway along the beach.

Despite the closures, two Chinese tourists were rescued from dangerous surf at Patong Beach on Tuesday (Aug 16) also after failing to observe to red “no swimming” flags.

Lifeguards rescued the two tourists just north of Bangla Rd at about 3:45pm, Somprasong Seangchart, the chief lifeguard at Patong, told The Phuket News.

“Both went swimming in red f lag zones and did not listen to lifeguards,” Mr Somprasong said. He named

the tourists as Mr Li Gengxin and Ms Liu Ge. “Af ter ad mi nister i ng medical assistance to them on the beach, both were taken to Patong Hospital. We have been told that Mr Li has been discharged from the hospital already, but that Ms Liu is still recovering in the hospital,” he said on Wednesday.

Lifeguards also reported rescuing another Chinese tourist from dangerous surf on Tuesday, this time at Kata Beach.

“The tourist was rescued from drowning at Kata Beach at about 5pm,” said Vitanya Chuayuan, Deputy Chief of

the Phuket Lifeguard Service.

“Our lifeguards recovered him from the water and gave him first aid on the beach.

The man is okay and told lifeguards that it was not necessary for him to go to hospital,” she said.

CHAMROEN TIPAYApongtada, the current Governor of Phuket, will be transferred to the post of Governor of Nakhon Sri Thammarat province effective October 1.

Prime Minister’s Office Spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd revealed the news at a meeting with provincial governors in Bangkok, reported the National News Bureau of Thailand (NNT) in a public notice posted on Wednesday (Aug 17).

It has yet to be announced which official will take up the post of Governor of Phuket to replace Mr Chamroen.

The date October 1 marks the beginning of the Thai government budget year and is the usual annual date for

the transfer of officials around the country.

As is customary with the public notice announcing regular annual transfers, no reason was given for Gov Chamroen being transferred to another province.

Gov Chamroen was installed Governor of Phuket on October 1 last year after serving as Vice Governor of Nakhon Pathom province, on the outskirts of Bangkok, for one year.

Before his posting to Nakhon Pathom, Gov Chamroen was one of the key figures in the dismantling of the Phuket taxi mafia in 2014 during his term as Phuket Vice Governor from 2012-2014.

Tanyaluk Sakoot

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PHUKET NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Ace Condo in sights

Consumer protection chief targets delays The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

Airport cleaner Pathima Wongsoh was found in possession of all the stolen items, say police.

Airport cleaner arrested for theft

A 23-YEAR-OLD CLEANer at Phuket International Airport was arrested for theft on Monday (Aug 15) after she kept a handbag containing B37,000 in cash and other items she found while cleaning the airport’s toilets.

Sakoo Police led by Lt Col Amnoy Chummuan arrested Pathima Wongsoh when she was found to be in possession of stolen items at her rented home Baan Tha Maphrao in Thepkrasattri.

Pol ice sei ze d f rom Pathima a handbag, wallet, B37,000 in cash, an iPad, ATM cards and other personal items.

Lt Col Amnoy explained,

“The arrest of Pathima came after a tour guide (who police declined to name) filed a report with us stating she had left her handbag in the restroom while at Phuket airport. When she returned to the toilet to retrieve the bag, she found it wasn’t there and reported it to officials.

“Investigators traced the stolen iPad using its location tracker and found it was at a home in Thepkrasattri.

Police arrived at the home and found Pathima in possession of all the items,” he said.

Pathima was taken to Sakoo Police Station and charged with theft.

Darawan Naknakhon

T

he national chief of the Consumer Protection Board has ordered the Royal Thai Police Consumer Protection Division to explain the year-long delay in proceeding with criminal charges against the developer of the Ace 1 Condominium project in Patong.

The developer, The Nine Property (Patong) Co, is under criminal investigation for charges that include fraud, developing land without the required permits, failure to obtain a building permit, and contravention of the Consumer Protection Act. Although the charges were levelled more than a year ago, after complaints were filed by 21 people, including parties in Singapore and Hong Kong, at last report in May the Phuket Public Prosecutor’s Office reported that the case file hand been handed back to Region 8 Police.

Asked when the developer was likely to face the charges in court, one prosecutor told The Phuket News, on condi-

National Consumer Protection Board Chief Ampon Wongsiri has ordered the police to explain the year-long delay in bringing charges against the developer of the Ace 1 Condo project in Patong. Photo: PR Dept tion of anonymity, “Ask the police.”

“I have ordered the Consumer Protection Division police to find out the delay in the Phuket Ace 1 Condominium case,” OCPB chief Mr Ampon confirmed to The Phuket News on Tuesday (Aug 16).

“I also asked about getting the files from local police in Phuket, and to ask the prosecutor about criminal case. We want to know why this has not been brought to prosecution,” he said.

Mr Ampon said he expected

officers from the police Consumer Protection Division to arrive in Phuket to follow up on the case next month. “ I really want to know the reason for this,” he said.

“We have not disregarded the consumers’ complaints. I do worry about Thai and foreign customers. I want them to be careful before they decide to buy a property. Please read contracts carefully, and make sure you keep the promotional material they give you to encourage you to buy a property,” Mr Ampon advised.

Disgruntled buyers can report incidents on the OCPB hotline 1166, he added.

“We keep a blacklist of operators in the property industry,” Mr Ampon said. “People can also file complaints at the Damrongtham Centre (Ombudsman’s Office). There are two consumer protection officials there,” Mr Ampon added.

The Damrongtham Centre in Phuket is located at Phuket Provincial Hall. Tel: 076 213203. Email: damrongtum_phuket@hotmail.com

Family trapped in head-on crash A FAMILY OF FOUR WAS hospitalised following a serious motor collision only moments after leaving the airport together late last Saturday night (Aug 13), with one of the members reported to be in a comatose state.

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision was also hospitalised with undisclosed injuries.

Tha Chatchai Police were notified of the accident at 11pm and reported to the scene, on the two-lane road that runs parallel to the Phuket airport runway in Mai Khao.

Rescue workers were dispatched, bringing special equipment to help free victims said to be trapped inside one of the cars.

The first vehicle was identified as a black Toyota saloon with Phang Nga licence plates.

The front end of the vehicle was demolished and several injured people were trapped inside.

Nearby was a white Honda CRV with Phuket plates, also smashed in the front.

Four Panpuangkaeo family members rescued from the black Toyota were identified as Ms Kwankamol, 35, the driver; Ms Wanna, 57; Mr Phongpichet, 58; and Ms Nattakan, 21.

Four members of one family were still trapped in their car when first responders arrived.

Of the four, Ms Nattakan was the only one reportedly still unresponsive the next morning, and was transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital.

The driver of the white CRV, Itthimon Thakoo, 23, was recovering at Thalang Hospital along with the other three injured-but-responsive parties.

Capt Thanom Thongpaen of Tha Chatchai Police said that the black Toyota was believed to have had just left the airport and was en route

to Thepkrasattri Rd, while the white Honda was believed to have been coming from the opposite direction, and was on its way to the airport.

Capt Thanom speculated that one of the drivers had most likely crossed over into the wrong lane, causing the other oncoming vehicle to swerve in an attempt to avoid a collision, but he declined to appoint blame or speculate any further as the investigation was ongoing.

Eakkapop Thongtub thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

See-through kaftan causes controversy

PHUKET NEWS

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Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

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foreign woman who caused controversy by wearing a seethrough kaftan during a visit to Wat Chalong last week received a Thai cult ural lesson from Phuket Tourist Police.

A tour guide and the tour company connected to the incident were also given the lesson.

The incident happened at 11am on August 10, when a tall, blonde tourist walked into Wat Chalong wearing a see-through kaftan usually worn on the beach. She went inside the temple with other tourists to worship Buddhist images without any concern of people staring at or taking pictures of her.

Residents who were also at the temple took photos of the tourist and sent them to local officials in the hope they would make tourists understand Thai cult ure and respect sacred places by dressing appropriately.

That evening, Phuket

Travellers wait draped in darkness in the main terminal at Phuket Airport, illuminated only by the skylight above. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub.

Scheduled blackout plunges Phuket Airport into darkness

The tourist in the see-through kaftan was photographed by local residents who were also visiting the temple. Photos: Nattawut Laawsuwan.

Tourist Police issued a press release to media to inform them that officers led by Col Srisak Kampheepan and Maj Nar uewat Phutawiro had asked the tourist involved in the incident, along with a tour guide, a representative from the tour company which had taken the tourist to the temple and Wat Chalong spokesman Chaiwat Chatwetwaiyawatkorn to attend the Tourist

Police Station at 9pm.

During their meeting, Tourist Police explained to all the parties present about Thai culture and manners, and discussed with them how a tourist should behave and what was considered appropriate and accepted behaviour in Thai culture, especially when he or she enters a place of worship.

Police also told them that

Woman appeals to help find dad, 80 A CONCERNED COUPLE on holiday in Phuket have appealed for help in finding an 80-year-old family member who was last seen at the hotel where they were staying in Patong on August 3.

Praditsakan and Kanjana Danaisuthikul made their public appeal at the Phuket Provincial Public Relations Office in Phuket Town on Aug 9, calling for help to find Ms Kanjana’s father, Prayoon Trisak.

Mr Prayoon was described as about 160-centimetres tall and dark-skinned. Mr Prayoon

@thephuketnews

Praditsakan and Kanjana Danaisuthikul appealed for help in finding Ms Kanjana’s father, Prayoon Trisak. Photo: PR Dept is subject to bouts of forgetfulness, it was reported.

“He disappeared from

the hotel at about 2am and we reported to Patong Police to help us find him that same day,” said Ms Kanjana.

The Danaisuthikuls are offering a small cash reward for information that leads to finding Mr Prayoon.

People with information that could lead to finding Mr Prayoon are urged to contact Mr and Mrs Danaisuthikul at 098 828 4159 or 062 380 3387; Patong Police Station at 076342719; or the Damrongdhama Centre (Ombudsman’s Office) at 076 021 3203.

The Phuket News

what happened was not right and should not happen again.

The tourist, who police did not want to name, apologised for her actions and told Mr Chaiwat that she was very sorry about the incident. She also asked for Thai people to forgive her and said she did not know any better. She had no intention of disrespecting a place of worship for Thais and Phuketians.

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY to Phuket International Airport took three hours to be restored after the power was shut down by local electricity authority workers on Wednesday morning (Aug 17) so they could upgrade high-voltage power lines in the area.

The electrical supply to Phuket’s critical transport portal went off at 9am, in direct accordance with the notice by the Phuket Provincial Electricity Authority (PPEA) to shut down power until 4pm on Wednesday in order for

workers to safely carry out the upgrades.

Power was restored at 12:25pm, confirmed Airport Director Monrudee Gettuphan “The power is back on at Phuket International Airport for now,” she told The Phuket News.

“The power was restored after we contacted the Thalang PEA office and asked them to switch the power back on,” she said.

“No f lights were affected during the power outage,” she added.

Tanyaluk Sakoot

Opinion 8

OPINION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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

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EDITORIAL

Phuket’s safety doesn’t celebrate

W

hen foreign media and governments began to question safety in Phuket following explosions on August 12, officials and local businesses went into crisis-management mode, yielding a number of public reassurances to restore confidence in the island’s lifeblood.

Meanwhile, “real” threats to safety in Phuket remain rampant and unchecked. Officials are not taking notice or action, as highlighted by yet another bus of Chinese tourists crashing on Patong Hill on Saturday (Aug 13), followed by yet another needless head-on collision between two private cars near Phuket Airport on Sunday (Aug 14).

Despite the obvious causes, most crashes are usually blamed on the weather, if not brake failure. The logical solution, then, should be to reduce

faulty vehicles and bad drivers on the roads.

Yet, Phuket officials enthusiastically backed the recent procurement of 300 new tour buses from China, so as to meet the growing demand for Chinese group tour transport.

Judging from our comments section, it’s clear that most readers don’t share the enthusiasm of Phuket Governor Chamroen Tipayapongtada who, fully suited and smiling for the cameras, presided over a lavish celebration on July 23.

Imagine the positive reception the governor would have recieved had it instead been announced that new buses were procured for the purpose of setting up a direly-needed public transport network for the benefit of all Phuket residents and tourists.

It will certainly be years before the proposed light rail system is up and running,

that is if it even gets approval after exhausting the millions allocated to studies on top of studies. In the meantime, people will have to continue to find their own means of getting around. Lacking any safe, affordable alternatives, many commuters will continue to end up in hospital, or worse.

If brand-new buses are good enough to enable hordes of prudent and frugal Chinese group-tourists to get around Phuket – at a high expense to local infrastructure and environment – then surely the governor should push for a similar deal that takes into account the rest of Phuket.

Affordable, dependable and standardised public transport would invariably reduce road casualty rates, likewise.

Wishful thinking, we know, but just for the record, Mr Governor, most of Phuket is not celebrating.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Two bomb explosions in Patong Phuket on high alert after Patong bombs Phuket police hunt suspects after Patong bomb scare Day of Bombs: Phi Phi safe, Khao Lak rattled, as Phuket Mother’s Day festivities proceed in Patong Phuket police begin hunt for Patong bombers New ‘strange contraption’ found at Patong souvenir market, EOD unit confirms ‘undetonated bomb’ Six injured in Trang bomb explosion Woman in see-through kaftan causes controversy at Phuket temple Patong rallies for bomb awareness as silence falls on Phuket bomber search Storm weather, heavy rain in Phuket, Andaman provinces and upper Thailand regions until August 18: Thai Met

Visit thephuketnews.com for all the latest news

HAVE YOUR SAY What happens from here?

Re: Two bomb explosions in Patong The so-called bomb was so small it’s like a fire cracker, I have seen bar brawls that has cause more material damage this, but the news impact is really going to cause the worst impact economically… pangkaone Sad day for Phuket. There goes the high season tourist arrivals…

RogerDutton Re: Phuket on high alert after Patong bombs How about security at busy places like Jungceylon? Mind the security there has been a joke for months, they no longer search backpacks, they look in the boot of your car, you could have bottles of propane on the back seat and they never look, they can’t see in because of tinted windows, there’s the underside of vehicles as well that are never checked!! My mate was doing

volunteer police in Patong but packed it in, he was exmilitary, he tried to tell them not to allow motorbikes on Bangla Rd at night as they could be used as bombs but they ignored him! Stupid farang trying to tell a Thai what to do attitude! malczx7r Re: Phuket Hotels Association issues statement over explosions in Thailand Wow, I find it something that the Phuket Hotels Association is declaring that Phuket is safe! Is the Phuket Hotels Association an anti-terrorist and safety organisation? NO! They want to sell rooms. They not at all sell safety outside their premises!

Kurt

We could be heroes...

Re: Chinese tourists saved from drowning at Patong, Kata Speechless. The Phuket Lifeguards do what they can do.

Full respect for their job this

moment. If tourists not want to advice or to listen, then it is their own responsibility. No room for another interpretation. Right?

Kurt Hey Chief Vitanya...you might want to check the lazy guards at Kamala. There are people swimming all over the place, and I saw one lifeguard sitting in a chair looking at his phone, with the other guards sitting behind the tent, staying out of the wind, and not even paying attention to the water...useless bums. But then again, I’m sure you know that already, and really don’t care too much... that’s why it is like this all the time. Just yesterday, several bystanders on the beach had to go in after some idiot that got into trouble and was getting sucked out to sea...but no lifeguards to be seen.

Ed Sanders

Suspicious minds need protection

Re: Consumer Protection Board probes three Phuket

property projects Nice of the Consumer Protection Board to not name the projects involved. Who are they protecting? The consumers or the builders?

PhuketDave Mr Ampon noted that action may take some time. Now why does that not suprise me. kataglenn

Roads of risk, rides of fear

Re: Family of four, plus one, hospitalised after head-on collision near Phuket Airport Since they four-laned that route there has been a marked increase in these sorts of serious accidents. Build it and they will go super-sonic on it.

Christy Sweet Love the expert commentary by the police... “...one of the drivers had most likely crossed over into the wrong lane, causing the other oncoming to lose control”. Duh...how else would a head-on occur.

Ed Sanders

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

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

THAILAND NEWS

9

Attacks linked to 2013 bomb

Police say Ramkhamhaeng blast connected to seven incidents last week BANGKOK

L

ast week’s multiple arson and bomb attacks in seven provinces could be linked to the May 26, 2013, bombing incident in Bangkok’s Ramkhamhaeng area, said a member of the police team probing the incidents.

A connection between the Ramkhamhaeng incident and the attacks in Prachuap Khiri Khan, and six southern provinces last week, is suspected based on collected evidence, witness statements, and the interrogation of a man from Narathiwat’s Rangae district, said the source.

Seven people were injured in the 2013 bombing in front of a beauty shop on Soi Ramkhamhaeng 43/1 in Bang Kapi district, and four suspects were last year each sentenced to 50 years in jail in connection with the attack.

The four convicted were Affaham Sa-a, Kamphi Latae and Ilroheng Vaemae, all Pattani residents, and Idris Sapator from Narathiwat.

A connection between the

@thephuketnews

The 2013 bomb was hidden amongst rubbish bins and exploded in the evening at the entrance of Ramkhamhaeng Rd Soi 43/1. Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill group of suspects believed to be behind the new attacks in the seven provinces and the four convicted was also found in the ongoing investigation, said the source.

The investigation team

now believes that Ahama Leng-ha, a resident of Narathiwat’s Tak Bai district and a suspected separatist who is wanted in connection with several violent incidents in the deep South, was the

person who assembled the bombs used in the new attacks.

Authorities found that a DNA sample collected from the Phuket blast last Wednesday (Aug 10) matched

ones taken from Mr Ahama.

The military court of the 41st Military Circle has issued an arrest warrant for Mr Ahama.

Authorities compared the DNA sample with DNA samples collected from Mr Ahama twice when he was detained in 2004 and 2010, said the source.

The investigation team was trying to establish links between the arson and bomb attacks, said the first source.

The team was examining footage from security cameras positioned near the attacks as well as those installed at Hat Yai railway station in Songkhla province, said the source.

It is believed Hat Yai Station was the point where the suspects began their journey to the seven provinces, the source said.

In Surat Thani, police have identified two male suspects believed to be behind the arson attack on a shop, said an informed source.

The two men resemble t wo suspects who were caught on camera sneaking into the shop to plant a firebomb, said the source.

They were also caught on CCTV travelling to the province and entering and leaving a Muslim community, said the source, adding that the two hid their faces throughout the trip by wearing a mask, hat and gloves.

Local investigators said on Tuesday (Aug 16) that they are hoping to get an arrest warrant for the two suspects, but Gen Srivara Ransibrahmanakul, a deputy national police chief who was in Surat Thani to follow up on the attack probe there, objected to the idea and requested they find more evidence.

National police chief Chakthip Chaijinda said the probe into last week’s attacks is nearly complete.

Another informed source said investigators are now focusing their attention on a list of 13 people believed to be behind last week’s attacks.

There were a total of 13 bombing incidents that killed four people and injured 35 others in the seven provinces between Wednesday and Friday morning (Aug 12).

Bangkok Post

10 THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

High-tech bid to crack unsolved crimes BANGKOK Tourists enjoy snorkelling near Koh Ngam Yai and Koh Ngam Noi. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Four Chumphon islands closed for regeneration CHUMPHON PA RTS OF M U KOH Chumphon National Park have been closed to allow damaged coral to recover, Provincial Governor Somdee Khachanyangyuen said last week.

Mr Somdee said the Department of National Parks (DNP) ordered the closure at Koh Ngam Noi, Koh Maprao, Koh Kula and Koh Rad, which are popular dive and snorkelling spots.

The decision followed a survey of coral reefs at marine national parks in the Gulf of Thailand that discovered large areas of coral bleaching.

The four sites will be closed until further notice to prevent further damage from human activities and enable the corals to fully recover, Mr Somdee said.

Rakpong Boonyoi, head of Mu Koh Chumphon marine park, said all fishing and tourism activities will be banned at the islands, where bleaching of staghorn corals is widespread. The closure may affect tourism in the area, but visitors can still visit other popular dive and snorkelling sites in the park.

Staghorn corals are especially sensitive to bleaching and are among the corals most vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors, he said.

Bangkok Post

T

he Crime Suppression Division (CSD) is tracking down thieves with the help of two database systems to be used to dust off unresolved cases.

One of the databases shares criminal records and arrest warrants, and the other is used to browse through fingerprints collected from crime scenes.

Police investigators believe that when it comes to theft suppression, suspects can strike again if they remain at large.

This means more people will become victims while others could suffer further thefts.

Last week the CSD traced a husband and wife wanted on 14 arrest warrants. Their arrest came as a result of the CSD’s new focus on solving old cases, mostly concerning theft and burglary.

Pattanapong Sripinproh, deputy chief of the CSD’s Sub-Division 2, consulted the databases in the hope it would make their task easier. They consulted the Command Control

Police have used computer-aided Identikits for years, but are quickly adding lookupdatabases to their systems. Photo: Somchai Poomlard Operations Centre (CCOC) and the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (Afis), as they are known.

The CCOC is a database containing arrest warrants for all criminal suspects in Thailand; The Afis contains fingerprints collected in past criminal investigations.

“The Afis is a useful system for police investigators particularly as they attempt to trace theft suspects as it is sophisticated enough to recognise even an incomplete fingerprint which is compared with the ones previously stored in the database,” Lt Col Pattanapong said. After investigators have identified a suspect using the two database systems, local police will be notified to seek an arrest warrant.

There are a number of practical reasons why local police have to wait for such information from the CSD. Lt Col Pattanapong said they simply do not have the time to go after theft suspects who normally move from place to place quickly to avoid getting caught.

In the latest arrest, police had tracked them for some time. They obtained information that Arkhom Phuthisarn, 52, and Sommai Phuthisarn, 46, were hiding in a rented apartment in Ban Bon district of Bangkok. Police then organised a swoop operation.

Of the 14 arrest warrants issued for the two, 12 were issued by the Pathum Thani provincial court, one more by the Samut Prakan provincial court and the other by the Chonburi provincial court. Of the warrants, eight were issued for Mr Arkhom and the rest for Ms Sommai.

When police raided their rented apartment last week, they found many stolen wristwatches and more than 200 amulets. Much to their surprise, police discovered the couple had earned enough money to buy several houses and cars.

“Let’s call them professional thieves. They made a lot of money and lived a good life,” Lt Col Pattanapong said.

Arun Wachirasrisukanya,

chief of the CSD’s Sub-Division 2, said the suspects confessed to several more crimes that occurred after the 14 warrants were issued.

They were once arrested and prosecuted in Samut Prakan and Bangkok, and sent to jail.

After they were released from prison in 2010, they went back to stealing, Col Arun said.

The team assigned to the cases involving the suspects found the couple had worked with another suspect who was identified only by his first name, Somneuk, and who had been previously arrested for stealing valuables from rented apartments.

Mr Somnuek drove in his car to the apartments targeted for theft. He said he sold the stolen valuables at a market.

“The CSD is speeding up efforts to track down other theft suspects whose information is stored on the databases.

If we don’t move fast enough, those suspects will continue to look for more victims,” Col Arun said.

Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

ASIA NEWS 11

Standing the test of time

Okinawa’s snakeskin banjo, a piece of the prefecture’s musical identity JAPAN

E

normous python skins hang from a wire inside the sweltering workshop where Seibu n Nakamine sculpts a piece of Okinawa’s musical identity.

They are essential for the wiry 69-year-old craftsman who has spent nearly half a century making the threestringed sanshin.

The snakeskin-covered instrument, similar to a banjo, sits at the heart of the subtropical island chain’s rich musical history. Its contagious, twangy sound is a fixture at weddings, festivals, and other celebrations.

Sitting on the wooden f loor of his tiny studio, a pair of huge ox horns on the wall above, Nakamine sees his work as much more than assembling an instrument which can take several weeks to make and costs as much as $5,000 (B173,040).

Craf t i ng a sanshin – which means “three strings” in Japanese – from ebony wood is like giving birth to

Seibun Nakamine, who has already chosen the sanshin music to be played at his funeral, is part of a dying breed. Photo: Toru Yamanaka/AFP a child, Nakamine said.

“W hen I sell them to musicians, I feel like I am marrying off my daughter,” he explained.

“The art of making the sanshin is based on really old customs. It’s complex, but very exciting to do.

“It’s my job to figure out how to craft its body from the middle with the best possible balance and in the most

beautiful way,” he added.

Nakamine – who has already chosen the sanshin music to be played at his funeral – is part of a dying breed.

He estimates there are only about 50 professional sanshin makers left in Okinawa these days.

The archipelago, which sits about 650 kilometres southwest of the Japanese

Preserving their ancient rites INDONESIA CRADLING THE CENturies-old remains of his mummified ancestor, tribe leader Eli Mabel lays bare an ancient tradition that has all but vanished among the Dani people in the Papuan central highlands.

The tiny, blackened, shrunken figure he carries was Agat Mamete Mabel, the chieftain that ruled over this remote village in Indonesian Papua some 250 years ago.

Honoured upon death with a custom reserved only for important elders and local heroes among the Dani people – he was embalmed and preserved with smoke and animal oil.

Nine generations on and his descendent Eli Mabel is chieftain of the Wogi village – an isolated hamlet outside Wamena that can be reached only by hiking and canoe.

He said the exact age of Agat Mamete Mabel was not known, but this ancestor was the last of the village to receive such a funeral.

Once common among his forebears, the ritual method of smoke embalming was no longer practised. @thephuketnews

Tribe chief Eli Mabel (centre) holds mummified remains of his ancestor, Agat Mamete Mabel. Photo: Adek Berry/AFP Christian missionaries and Muslim preachers encouraged the tribespeople to bury the corpses, and the tradition has faded as the centuries drifted by.

But Mabel is determined to retain the ancient rites and rituals for future generations.

“We must protect our culture, including the ceremonies for the mummy, the way we treat it, and maintain the fire for it,” the Dani tribesman said.

The mummy, decorated with pig tusks slung around the torso, a feathered headpiece, and traditional penis gourd rests in a hut known as a “honai”.

This wide-domed, thatchroofed hut is tended year-

round by a select few villagers who keep a fire burning to ensure the corpse remains dry and preserved.

The duty of caring for the mummy often falls to Mabel, he said. He spends many nights sleeping alone in the honai, ensuring no harm befalls his ancestor.

The ancient Dani tribes in Indonesia’s half of the island of New Guinea were cut off from the outside world until well into the 20th century. Their homeland in the Baliem Valley was isolated by steep, rugged valleys and dense highland forest.

Today, the region remains one of the poorest in Indonesia.

AFP

mainland, was once home to the independent Ryukyu kingdom until it was annexed

by Tokyo in the late 1800s.

For hundreds of years before that, Okinawa had strong links with China where a similar three-stringed instrument, the sanxian, served as a model for what would become the sanshin and, later, the Japanese shamisen.

Okinawa, the scene of

some of World War II’s heaviest fighting, became a US colony after Japan’s surrender in 1945. It was returned to Tokyo’s control in the early 1970s.

During the tough postwar years, some Okinawans resorted to a makeshift version of the instrument made out of a piece of wood and tin can.

“Playing the sanshin was a comfort and helped to relieve the stress,” said musician Tatsuo Chinen at a bar in the capital city Naha that specialises in sanshin music.

But Chinen thinks the sanshin is not only an instrument of the past.

“There are many young people who are now interested in this instrument,” he added.

For many though, the sanshin remains a powerful reminder of Okinawa’s history, and its soulful sound can mirror a vast range of emotions, from intense sadness to bubbling joy.

Sometimes that joy translates into islanders opting to play sanshin music – or listening to a performance – instead of working, Nakamine joked.

“It’s my opinion, but if you ask me, Okinawans like fooling around,” he says.

The sanshin has now crossed over into other more pop and rock-like musical styles among Okinawan bands.

And so Nakamine tries to match what he creates to the voice and musical style of his clients.

“If you try to determine the sanshin’s sound when it’s done being made, you’re already too late,” he added.

“That won’t answer a customer’s needs.”

The craftsman’s sun-wrinkled hands are a hot commodity and his order backlog can sometimes stretch back more than 10 months.

But it’s not his opinion of the work that counts most, Nakamine said.

“The musician judges whether a sanshin is good or bad,” he said.

“As craftsmen, we do our best to make a great instrument. But in the end we’re only [working] in the shadow of the musician.

“We’re shadow warriors.”

AFP

12 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Coaxed off Senegal streets Child beggar crackdown brings praise from some, anger from others SENEGAL

I

n recent weeks, packs of shoeless boys and girls have been coaxed off the streets of the Senegalese capital Dakar where they have spent their childhoods, crying and frightened as they are loaded onto buses.

The crackdown on child begging comes after years of inaction and has been praised by children’s groups but greeted with anger by powerful Islamic figures in the west African nation.

The children are from a mix of poor or homeless families and others known as “talibes” – boys sent out to beg by Islamic tutors to make money for their boarding schools.

They are brought to Guinddi Children’s Centre in the capital accompanied by social workers, where they are interviewed and checked for signs of maltreatment and disease.

“The children are generally unaccompanied. When they come here we ask them for the telephone number of their tutor or Koranic teacher and they give it to us,” explained

A young Senegalese boy, known locally as a ‘talibe’, begs at the window of a car in Dakar in April 15. Photo: Malick Rokhy/AFP Maimouna Balde, director of the Guinddi centre.

Parents, or Islamic teachers known as “marabouts”, will generally come and pick up the children themselves, Balde said, whereupon the centre’s staff explain that if their charges are found on the streets again they will be prosecuted.

The operation will continue “for as long as there are children on the streets,” she said.

With 270 street kids picked up in the first two weeks of

July in Dakar, according to the authorities, the initiative is a long way from dealing with the 30,000 talibes estimated to be begging daily.

Often from poor rural families, the talibes are sent to Dakar and other Senegalese cities nominally to memorise the Koran, but are often left vulnerable to abuse and receiving little education.

Sometimes the journey home is long: on July 11 nine children were repatriated to

neighbouring Guinea after being collected from the streets, according to one Guinean charity.

The current crackdown is the first time a decade-old law has been firmly applied, with parents or guardians of child beggars potentially facing two to five years in jail and fines of up to 2,000,000 CFA (B117,389).

“There are fattened calves hidden behind this education system to exploit children

through begging, which is an easy and profitable business,” said Niokhobaye Diouf, national director of child protection services.

Parents of street children should be assessed to see if they could benefit from state welfare and health programmes to deter them from relying on their children’s labour, he said.

Talibes are told to beg for food and money and not to return to their “daara” – Islamic school – until they have collected enough.

Even late at night in Dakar, children only visibly out of kindergarten, can be seen shaking empty tins of food, trying to get enough to be allowed to finish up for the day.

Dealing with the systematic slavery of children in Senegal in this way has been attempted and then abandoned by the state several times before.

Until now, the power of tradition means few have been willing to challenge the marabouts, given their status and the respect they are afforded as Islamic scholars.

Muslim elder Sidy Lamine Niasse told journalists the government “doggedly pursued

daaras” to “stigmatise and demonise” them.

But the schools have a long history of abuse: in February, the Senegalese authorities found 20 boys aged between six and 14 kept in chains by their marabout – resulting in a rare prosecution.

Mustapha Lo, president of the national federation of Koranic schools, said the street sweep was taken without consulting Muslim educators and downplayed the concerns relayed by children’s charities.

“The majority of us manage our Koranic schools without making the children beg on the streets. Some Koranic teachers do that because they lack any other financial means,” Lo said.

Countering their arguments, Diouf said the government hopes to reform the daaras’ curriculum while giving them a better level of financial support.

More than their education is at stake: the authorities want to avoid children falling prey to jihadist recruiters in the region, who are luring young men away with promises of riches and glory.

AFP

Where Istanbul coup plotters are laid to rest TURKEY IT’S A BARREN PLOT ON the outskirts of Istanbul, its stony ground baking under the merciless summer sun. A single sign gives a macabre clue as to the use of the land.

“Traitors’ graveyard,” say the white capital letters on the black sign, planted on two stakes into the ground.

The cemetery was created to bury Turkish rebel soldiers whose failed July 15 putsch

claimed a total of 270 lives but did not manage to unseat the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The location has been chosen with the apparent intention to offer the minimum glory in burial – just near a construction site where a project to build a shelter for street animals is under way.

The Turkish authorities say 24 plotters were killed in the coup. Only one soldier has been buried in the graveyard so far.

Captain Mehmet Karabekir reportedly killed a local headman during the power grab attempt and his body was rejected by his family.

There is no gravestone on his tomb but just a pile of soil. Next to his, three more empty graves have been dug.

“The dead body was carried in an ambulance, with no sirens. He was laid to rest by a handful of people and then it was over,” one witness said.

Civilians are banned from

visiting the cemetery and media are accompanied by a security official.

Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbas, in remarks carried

by Turkish media, said the idea to create a “traitors’ graveyard” had been floated during a municipal meeting.

“Those who betray this nation cannot rest in peace even in their tombs,” he said.

Turkey’s Religious Affairs Directorate, Diyanet, said after the putsch there would not be any funeral services or

A sign reading in Turkish ‘Traitors’ Cemetery’ marks a barren piece of ground selected for the burial of Turkish soldiers who took part in a failed coup. Photo: Ozan Kose/AFP prayers for the rebel soldiers involved in the coup.

“Funeral prayers are made for the deceased by his Muslim brothers for redemption.

But those people, by resorting to that action, trampled on the law not only of individuals but an entire nation.”

AFP

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

BUSINESS NEWS 13

Fallout yet to hit

Hotels report ‘no significant cancellations’ HOSPITALITY

L

eaders of four key Phuket hotel and tourism business associations have signed a letter issued to member businesses asking for cooperation in crisis management measures after the bomb attacks last Friday (Aug 12).

The letter asks for hotel and tourism operator members to ramp up surveillance and exercise vigilance around their respective places of business, and to provide convenience and accurate information on the state of affairs.

Key signatories to the letter included Sathirapong Na Takuatoong of the Phuket Tourist Association; Dr Kritsada Tansakul of the Thai Hotel Association Southern Chapter; Ms Supattra Jaruariyanon of the Patong Hotels Association and Kritsada Kanchanalai of the Kata-Karon Hotel Business Association.

The let ter noted that “though there may be cancellations among Thai nationals, there has been no notifica-

Myanmar is looking to expand its range of ecotourism destinations beyond Inle Lake (above). Photo: Thomas Schoch

Myanmar to expand ecotourism options TOURISM Phuket Hotels Association President Anthony Lark. tion of cancellations among foreign tourists,” adding that occupancy remains at about 70 per cent islandwide, and 80% in Patong.

The letter closed by stressing that ramped-up security measures would help to restore confidence among travellers.

The Phuket Hotels Association (PHA) on Monday (Aug 15) also issued a statement reassuring that Phuket remains safe and that room bookings in Phuket had not

been significantly affected by the bombings. The PHA represents major hotel and resort properties and over 14,000 rooms on Phuket.

“Phuket and its beaches are peaceful and guests continue to enjoy their holidays, relatively unaffected by the event last week,” said PHA President Anthony Lark in the statement. “All hotels have implemented additional security measures and are in close communication with

the local authorities for any updates.

“The majority of the membership hotels have not reported any significant loss of business from cancellations.

“We will continue to closely monitor the situation and our members are being diligent in ensuring upgraded security measures in cooperation with the local authorities,” Mr Lark said.

(TAT reacts, see p14.)

The Phuket News

MYANMAR’S MINISTRY of Hotels and Tourism will open 22 regions across the country to ecotourism for both foreign and local travellers.

Some of the destinations earmarked for ecotourism development include the Meinmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ayeyarwady Delta, Myaing Hay Wun Elephant Camp in Yangon Region and Khakaborazi National Park, home to the highest mountains in the countr y and close to the northern-most frontier of the country.

Due to an increase in tour-

ist arrivals, Myanmar needs to expand ecotourism projects, the ministry director, U Tint Thwin told the local media.

“We’ll also make it possible to survey the country’s flora and fauna in order to protect natural wildlife.”

The Department of Forestry and the tourism ministry are reportedly working together to expand ecotourism to spread tourism revenue to poorer regions of the country.

The country welcomed over 4.6 million foreign visitors last year, an increase of 52% compared with 2014.

The ministry estimates that tourist arrivals will reach 5.5 million this year.

TTR Weekly

Phuket Airport operator AoT posts huge hikes in profit for fiscal Q3 AIRPORTS AIRPORTS OF THAILAND Plc (AoT) continued to ride the crest of Thailand’s air travel boom with robust growth in the fiscal third quarter, from October 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.

The state airport operator, which is listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), posted a 24.3 per cent rise in net profit for the three months to June on B13.39

@thephuketnews

billion in revenue, up 18.8%.

Poolsi r i Vi roja napa , AOT Senior Executive VicePresident for Accounting and Finance, attributed the increased profitability largely to the rise in passenger and aircraft traffic through the country’s six main airports under its operation, including Phuket International Airport.

Total passenger traffic in the period for the six airports rose 11.1%, driven by a 20.6% jump in those carried by low-cost carriers

(LCCs). Combined aircraft movements grew 8.8% with a 13.9% surge in those operated by LCCs. Passenger service charges and concession fees – AoT’s two prime revenue sources – edged up 11.2% and 15.4%, respectively, to B5.37 billion and B3.37 billion.

The B464.83 million in compensation AoT received for damage caused by the late 2011 flooding at Don Mueang airport also contributed to the quarter

profitability.

The healthy fiscal thirdquarter performance pushed net earnings for the nine months to June up by 18.6% to B15.28 billion, on a 16.1% increase in revenue to B39.67 billion.

Ms Poolsiri said the outlook for AoT is positive due to the apparently stable domestic political situation, economic pickup, expanding tourism and decreasing fuel prices.

Bangkok Post

Passengers make their way to boarding gates at Don Mueang. AoT reported robust growth in the fiscal third quarter. Photo: Bangkok Post / Pattarachai Preechapanich

14 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

TAT rolls out measures to offset terrorism fears TOURISM Bangkok Post

SET-listed developer Pruksa Real Estate’s chief executive Thongma Vijitpongpun. Photo: Bangkok Post file

Pruksa to pounce if prices plummet PROPERTY PRUKSA REAL ESTATE Plc (PS) is revving up land purchases, vowing to offer as much as B17 billion a year as prices for plots cool down.

Thongma Vijitpongpu chief executive of SET-listed Pruksa Real Estate, said with the land and buildings tax set to come into force next year, land prices should drop as some landowners, particularly those in prime areas, sell to avoid paying the tax.

“The market mechanism will make land prices fall.

We will slow our land purchases and wait until next year,” he said.

Under the new tax, the ceiling tax rate will be 0.2 per cent of the appraisal value for land used for agricultural purposes, 0.5% for residences, 2% for commercial use and 5% for vacant or undeveloped land.

The tax will be levied on first homes and land used for agricultural purposes

with appraisal prices starting at B50 million, with the rate applied to the amount exceeding B50 million.

The tax will also apply to second homes on a progressive basis, with rates of 0.03% to 0.30% for homes appraised from less than B5 million to over B100 million.

For vacant or undeveloped land, the tax rate will be 1% for land left vacant or unused for one to three years, 2% for four to six years and 3% for over seven years.

Mr Thongma said Pruksa set an annual budget of B1517 billion for land purchases during 2017-19 and would likely spend up to B20 billion in the future. This year it has spent B7.5 billion.

Last year it spent B16.71 billion on land, exceeding its budget of B14 billion because of a change in land appraisal prices that affected transfer fees.

Pruksa is the country’s largest land developer, followed by Sansiri Plc spending B9 billion.

Bangkok Post

T

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will impose five special measures to restore tourist confidence after multiple bomb and arson attacks in seven southern provinces last week.

The agency expects the attacks to trim international tourist numbers by 200,000 from now until year-end, said TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn.

Despite the unexpected incidents, the TAT remains confident that this year’s tourism revenue projection of B2.41 trillion will be achieved and that the number of tourist arrivals will be minimally affected.

Tourist arrivals to Thailand grew by 12 per cent in the first seven months, although growth for the rest of the year might be slower.

“We will make every effort to bring them (foreign tourists) back and them to revisit us in the future,” said Mr Yuthasak.

Last year, Thailand welcomed 29.8 million foreign

Authorities beef up security on Khao San Rd. Photo: Bangkok Post / Pattarapong Chatpattarasill tourists and projects 30 million to come this year. That figure is projected to jump to 34.1 million in 2017.

Among the five measures that the TAT will organise are the Wing Len Ten Gin Hua Hin (Play, Dance and Eat in Hua Hin) festival, which will comprise a jazz music concert, food festival, marathon and cycling during the first week of September in Hua Hin. It has also planned Magnificence Thailand, which will boast

Thai street food and light decorations on shopping streets in Bangkok from Oct 1-7.

Second, the TAT will give a prize to the 30th and 34th million tourists who come to Thailand in a bid to celebrate the benchmark arrival numbers.

Third, the TAT will seek Cabinet approval for Sept 26 and 27 to be recognised as special holidays to celebrate World Tourism Day on Sept 27, so that Thai people will enjoy

long holidays from Sept 24 to 27. That move is intended to promote domestic tourism.

Fourth, the TAT has plans to create more public awareness for year-end tourism activities such as the Thai Tiew Thai (Thais Visit Thailand) tourism fair.

The last measure is the launch of Tiew Kham Park (Travel Across Thailand) campaign to challenge domestic tourists to travel to a variety of provinces.

Indonesia considers law to ban alcohol TOURISM I N D ON ESI A’S HOT EL association has warned that the country’s tourism would implode if a draft alcohol bill becomes law.

According to the Jakarta Post, the association warned the government and the legislative body that Indonesian tourism would “collapse” if the House of Representatives votes in favour of the bill prohibiting alcohol sales and consumption across the nation.

The bill, introduced by the United Development Party (PPP) and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), both Islamist parties, fails to take into account the opinions of tourism stakeholders, the association claimed.

Despite strong opposition from the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), the House continues deliberations concerning the bill.

“If the bill is passed, our business will be done. Tourists, who mostly come from

An outright nationwide ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in Indonesia would include Bali. Photo: Batle Group Europe, drink alcohol all the time. It will be very inconve-

nient for them if they can’t find alcohol,” PHRI head Hariyadi Sukamdani told Jakarta Post last week.

If passed, the law will be the first of its kind to impose a nationwide ban on the production, distribution and consumption of drinks with an alcoholic content of just one per cent up to beverages containing 55% alcoholic content.

Foreign tourists complain about the difficulty of sourcing alcoholic drinks outside of hotels.

“No matter how beautiful the country is, if they can’t find alcohol, they won’t want to come here,” Hariyadi told the Jakarta Post.

TTR Weekly thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Summer’s over and school is in session

16

Find out what you’re flying over

19

WELL-RIBBED Sala Phuket serves up broad range of fine dining experiences > 21

Photo: Shayan Amin.

Photo: CIPHOR @thephuketnews

16 EDUCATION

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Small school for big ideas Gecko continues to provide intimate education for the smallest Matt Clemens editor@classactmedia.co.th

G

ecko Nursery in Thalang – a school well known for its different, wider outlook on early years education, is set to begin its fourth school year on August 22.

Recent weeks have been busy at Gecko Nursery, with intense preparations for the new school year. Cleaning, painting, gardening

and re-arranging of the school interiors have all taken place to accommodate an influx of children aged 3 to 7, who will be joining the classes for the new school year. But while new students continue to joint Gecko, the school remains true to its goals of keeping the classes small and the atmosphere open and friendly.

Located in a garden villa in Thalang, on the shortcut to Phuket International Airport, Gecko Nursery has long been known to provide a child-

centric, inquiry-based education to children, whose parents look for a more intimate and friendly learning experience for their offspring. And now, under new management and with an expanded teaching team, the goals remain the same – lots of outdoors activities, mindfulness as part of the curriculum and supporting the local community while building one within the school as well.

To that last goal the Gecko will join a renowned beach resort to organise beach cleanups, Club Days and other

activities inside and outside the school.

And as always, parents are invited to participate in all Gecko events, and not just on Club Days when Gecko sees mums and dads teaching their own, unique skills to the students.

With new, passionate teachers on board and new co-owners who share Gecko’s funders vision of providing a different kind of education in Phuket, Gecko Nursery moves forward while remaining the small school for big ideas than children and parents love.

BISP celebrates 20th Anniversary with past and present students

A

t the start of every school year, British International School, Phuket (BISP) holds its Foundation Day to mark the day construction

first started on the school. On Monday, August 15, to mark the special 20th anniversary of the school’s opening, the day began with offerings and prayers at the

shrine in front of the main entrance, at which staff wished for good fortune for all staff and students – past and present – followed by a ceremony led by chanting

monks, who gave their blessings for the school. Here’s to a wonderful and successful year ahead! Learn more about BISP at www.bisphuket.ac.th.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

COMMUNITY 17

Anybody

can be a hero

Adoption can go a long way in saving many lives in communities SOI DOG STORIES Mike Pullen editor1@classactmedia.co.th

E

verybody remembers looking up in awe at the achievements of various people around the world whilst growing up, and being motivated to emulate these heroes from different walks of life, be they prominent business people, religious leaders, philanthropists, or stars from the entertainment or sports worlds. Alas, as the majority of us get older, we realise that due to various reasons such as a lack of opportunity, resources or our own limitations, we were never destined to achieve the heady heights of our dreams and we settle into a normal happy life with our families and a steady job.

As part of their project to teach their pupils about community role models, good citizenry and becoming involved in community welfare, Soi Dog Foundation has been invited by various schools to come and do a talk about the work that the foundation does with the help of its Thai and international supporters.

This was when the realization set in that a person does not necessarily have to be famous or be the best at anything to become a role model within their community. By living a good life and being a good citizen that cares about the community that they live in, anybody has the capacity to be a local community hero and a role model to their children in their own way.

One of the ways to become a community hero and improve the lives for both the animal and human communities

@thephuketnews

they live in, is to adopt a rescued dog or cat from a shelter. When you adopt an animal from a shelter you are saving two lives, the life of the animal that you adopted and the life of the animal that is going to take its place at the shelter.

You are also providing an animal with the second chance they deserve.

Many have been rescued from horrific circumstances such as cruelty, neglect and abandonment, or quite simply their owners were no longer able to look after them due to illness or a change in situation. Shelter staff work tirelessly to nurse animals back to health, rehabilitate disturbed animals and do everything they possibly can to ensure they are prepared to go to a new home. By rehoming a pet you can give an animal that has been abandoned through no fault of their own a loving, stable home, and help to stop the overpopulation of stray dogs in your community.

Your personal and civic decision to adopt a companion from a shelter will also help towards putting the horrific puppy mills out of business. Most puppies and kittens sold to unsuspecting consumers in pet stores, online or via classified ads come from puppy mills.

Puppy mills are factorystyle breeding facilities that put profit above the welfare of their animals, as some animals from puppy mills are housed in shockingly poor conditions with improper medical care, and are often very sick and behaviourally troubled as a result. The mothers of the animals are kept in cages to be bred over and over for years, without human companionship and with little hope of ever joining a family. After they get too old, breeding animals are simply discarded – either killed, abandoned or sold at auction. Puppy mills will continue

to operate until people stop supporting them. By adopting, instead of buying a pet, you are setting an example and can be certain you are making it harder for these businesses to operate.

Adopted rescue dogs have the ability to lift your spirits, resulting in an improvement in your quality of life through improved benefits in your physical and emotional health. It is a very fulfilling experience to save a life and watch it blossom and flourish with love, care appreciation and respect. The joy and gratification to be derived from saving a dog in need are boundless, making you a happier person, leading to a happier family environment, a respected member of your local community and a hero that your kids can look up to.

Soi Dog’s shelter has a variety of healthy pets just waiting for their local hero to take them to their loving forever home.

Interested potential adopters can call Charoenkhwan Pongpradith – Thailand

Bamboo from Soi Dog was adopted in the USA. adoptions co-ordinator at 098 868 0058 or email thaiadoptions@soidog-foundation.org during the week to schedule an appointment. Further information and pictures of our wonderful animals looking for a loving home can be found by visiting the Soi Dog website at http://www. soidog.org/en/adoptions/

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

TECHNOLOGY 19

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

The Ground Below

Flyover Country provides endless entertainment for travellers APPLICATION ABCs Amy Bensema bensema.amy@gmail.com

Application ABCs is a monthly column highlighting the latest in tech, social media and mobile phone applications.

H

ave you ever been sat in the window seat, looking at the landscape below and wondering just what exactly you were flying over? Learn about the ground beneath you as you fly with the all-new Flyover Country app.

Designed to let travellers track their flight with a mobile phone’s GPS, Flyover Country is an outstanding app funded offline by the National Science Foundation.

The National Science Foundation utilises

the app for geoscience outreach and data discovery. The aim of Flyover Country is to educate avid travellers and normal people, not just scientists, about the world around them. It is an educational, entertaining app to keep on one’s mobile phone.

Flyover Country has been designed to let users know what areas of interest are near the land they are travelling over. Whether users of the app are hiking, flying or simply on a cross-country road trip, Flyover Country analyses the surrounding area. The app then provides interactive points of interest such as scenic areas, popular landscapes and tourist attractions. Flyover Country is also able to reveal the location of fossils based upon previous georeferenced Wikipedia articles. The app provides information for where users are located at any given moment.

Flyover Country is an amazing app to

use while flying. Flyover Country is able to track the user’s GPS location including speed, altitude and the path in which the airplane is heading. Analysing the given flight path, Flyover Country caches points of interest and informative map data which in turn allows travellers to read about the exact locations that are currently beneath the airplane. The app is able to be used offline, so travellers do not need to rely on an airline’s sketchy Wi-Fi connection to use it. Flyover Country can provide hours of educational fun during even the longest of flights.

Worried about downloading too much data? With Flyover Country, by downloading only the necessary data to a flight path, cache sizes remain manageable, allowing for a more robust experience offline when using the app.

Flyover Country is not limited to airplanes. It is also a wonderful app to use when hiking or while on a road trip or

High level of detail. enjoying outdoor activities. Users are indeed able to learn about the world with this very innovative app.

Flyover Country is available for both Android and iOS, and the app is free to download.

Amy Bensema is a long-term Phuket expat with a keen interest in social media and tech. Check out @phuketstagram.

SpaceX lands Falcon 9 rocket after launching Japanese satellite

S

paceX successfully landed a reusable Falcon 9 rocket on a floating drone ship at sea early Sunday (Aug 14) after the vehicle had sent a Japanese communications satellite into orbit.

The California-based company's eighth launch this year was part of its ongoing effort to re-use costly rocket parts instead of jettisoning them into the ocean.

It was also the fourth time SpaceX has vertically landed a used Falcon 9 rocket aboard a floating platform at sea.

The white rocket launched under a dark night sky from Cape Canaveral, Florida at 1:26 am (0526 GMT).

Less than three minutes into the flight, the rocket's main stage separated as planned, with SpaceX mission control erupting in cheers as live video showed the moves.

Around six minutes later, the first stage landed on the Of Course I Still Love You drone ship, drawing more cheers at mission control.

The vertical landing on the reconverted deck barge in the Atlantic Ocean was especially challenging because the JCSAT-16 satellite had to be carried into a highly elliptical orbit some 22,300 miles (36,000 kilometers) above the Earth's equator.

“The first stage will be subject to extreme velocities and re-entry heating, making a successful landing challenging,” Space @thephuketnews

Exploration Technologies Corporation – SpaceX's full name – said prior to the mission.

The communications satellite will help provide more stable satellite services for video distribution

and data transfer communications in Asia, Russia, Oceania, Middle East and North America.

It was the second JCSAT satellite SpaceX has launched in four months for satellite operator SKY

SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket sits on a launch pad in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Perfect JSAT Corporation.

SpaceX chief Elon Musk wants to revolutionise the launch industry by making rocket components reusable.

AFP

20 MOTORING

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Honda Accord Hybrid launches Electrical drive and expanded mileage mark turning point for Honda

H

(DOHC) i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine is combined with onda Automobile (Thailand) Co has two powerful electric motors, an E-CVT transmislaunched its new Honda Accord Hybrid, sion, and an ultra-high 1.3 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion which delivers powerful performance with battery that offers better electrical transmission and a maximum output of 215 horsepower in charging performance. full hybrid mode and a maximum speed of The driving mode switches intelligently to match 120 kilometres per hour in electrical drive all driving conditions, such as an EV Drive Mode that mode. uses only the electric motors to reach speeds up to “The new Honda Accord Hybrid is auto120kph, a Hybrid Drive Mode, and an Engine Drive motive perfection with many dimensions of advanced Mode. technology and safety systems. With For a sportier and more its luxury design from exterior to inteexciting drive, the new Honrior, I’m confident that the new Honda da Accord Hybrid includes Accord Hybrid is the perfect response a Sport Drive Mode. By to the new generation of executives’ pressing the “sport” button demands for a car that will reflect on the centre console, Sport their identity and vision of being ahead of others,” said Pitak PruittiDrive Mode uses the battery sarikorn, chief operating officer of the to help boost the electric company. motors for better acceleraThe car boasts its highest rate of tion. The Sport Hybrid Infuel economy of 23.8 kilometres per litelligent Multi Mode Drive tre and features a Sport Hybrid Intel(i-MMD) is a full hybrid ligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD). system that provides power for performance and fuel A 2.0-litre, 16-valve, Atkinson Photo: Honda.co.th. economy of 23.8km/l with Cycle Double Overhead Camshaft

Honda Sensing for augmented safety. carbon emissions of only 99 grammes/km.

The new Honda Accord Hybrid offers the advanced “Honda Sensing” vehicle safety system that combines a radar and a monocular camera to detect and alert the driver. It also helps control the vehicle when there is a risk of a car accident for the safety of both the driver and pedestrians.

Honda provides a 10-year warranty on the battery and a 5-year warranty on the entire Honda Hybrid system with no limit on mileage.

The new Honda Accord Hybrid is available in two variants: the Hybrid at B1,659,000 and the Hybrid Tech at B1,849,000.

Bangkok Post

Mazda pioneers G-Vectoring Control system

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ar brands that like to associate themselves with stylish looks and fun-to-drive traits usually talk about sportiness rather than comfort. This time around, however, Mazda is seeing things slightly differently.

The Japanese firm thinks cars that are enjoyable to drive should also offer good piece of mind on the move.

Therefore, they have devised G-Vectoring Control (GVC), claimed to be an automotive first, to enhance comfort for both the driver and passengers.

Broadly speaking, GVC uses torque from the engine to help vary load on each tyre. If the front end needs more bite, deceleration is applied (like when a car dives under braking). The amount of torque action is so small that ordinary drivers like you and me would fail to notice.

You can definitely feel the advantages of GVC on the move. Fitted onto the 3 C-segment family car – Mazda’s best-selling model on a global basis – GVC is an immediate winner. It helps the driver with less steering correc-

tions to go over undulating road surfaces or under keen cornering.

However, it’s in the passenger seat where you will feel the merits of GVC more. Although GVC doesn’t have any link to the suspension, there’s a subjective feeling of a flatter ride whereby passengers move about in their seats less during cornering.

Bluntly put, it helps reduce car sickness for passengers.

Because GVC doesn’t need any hardware, the cost of it being installed into a car is said to be very minimal.

The only possible charge it faces is engineering innovation.

The cars for journalists to sample at Mazda’s Mine proving grounds in Japan were the revised 3 in which GVC will be made standard across the range when it is launched in Thailand at the yearending Motor Expo.

Mazda says

GVC will eventually reach all other models when the time to update them comes.

GVC can only be clearly felt in a back-to-back drive with cars fitted with and without it. Unlike traction and stability control systems, GVC can’t be turned off. But you wouldn’t want to anyway when it works so effectively in the real world.

Speaking of the facelifted 3 – which is already on sale in Japan where it is known as Axela – there’s more than just GVC. Apart from the di rigueur cosmetic tweaks of mid-life facelifts, there’s a head-up display that’s now upgraded to a full-colour screen.

More engine options have also been introduced in the freshened-up 3. These include a smaller 1.5-litre diesel-turbo joining the existing 2.2-litre, as well as a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid whose electric compo-

nents are courtesy of Toyota.

Unfortunately, none of these new motors are coming to Thailand due to concerns of cost and production capacity at Mazda’s Rayong facility. That means the updated 3 will still come solely with the same E85-compatible 2.0-litre petrol unit of the existing model.

Even so, the 3 should still remain a decent choice in the Thai C-segment despite the arrival of Honda’s all-new Civic and Ford’s facelifted Focus. The Mazda continues to score with stylish exterior and interior, plus driving manners just fractionally inside the class-leading Focus.

The Civic and Focus may come with new petrol-turbo engines developing between 173 horsepower and 180hp accordingly, but they are limited to just range-topping models costing north of B1 million.

The 3, boasting a 165hp non-turbo motor, covers a wider price range of B838,000 to B1.099 million.

Bangkok Post

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

DINING 21

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Rare rib experience done right SALA Phuket creates a world-class experience with signature dining Shayan Amin editor1@classactmedia.co.th

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xecutive Chef Davide Pritoni has branched out from his Italian roots to present a comprehensive menu for SALA Phuket’s in-house SALA Restaurant, clearly influenced by his 10 years in Thailand.

Additionally, the restaurant hosts thematic nights that offer various promotions. We dropped in on a Wednesday, “Ribs N’ Beats”, featuring a generous pile of baby back ribs. For B1,500++ you get a platter of beautifully barbecued ribs sufficient for three to four people to enjoy thoroughly.

While waiting for our ribs we were served Rosemary Bread, as well as Naan, along with a trio of dips: bean sauce, olive oil with balsamic vinegar

and chilli garlic oil. Warm and fragrant, it was hard to not fill up on the bread alone, especially combined with the sharp savouriness of the bean sauce.

We started with bowls of corn chowder. If you love corn (like yours truly), this will delight you. Perfectly seasoned, with a slight sweet brininess from crabmeat, the bowl paid due respect to the kernels of corn without being too chunky, and without blending it all down to a bland purée.

The plate of ribs arrived with cornbread and a side-salad. After being barbecued for six hours in a marinade that included coconut and chives over coconut husk, they came apart easily when pulled. The meat falls just as easily off the bone. Worry not if you prefer to eat your ribs by hand – SALA is prepared for Wednesday nights with specific black napkins for dedicated rib-eaters.

Bake off at the Nai Harn The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

T

he only hotel on Phuket selected to become a member of the elite Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), The Nai Harn, recently launched exclusive cooking classes with its Executive Pastry Chef and Master Baker Daniel Back, including a special class just for junior bakers.

“Baking is something intrinsically linked with happy memories of shared celebrations and fond family moments. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to share with our guests my passion, which appeals to varied age groups, genders, and cultures,” says Chef Daniel.

The cooking classes are limited to a maximum of four participants to ensure personal attention from the Master Baker, and the hotel is offering three intriguing choices: chocolate praline/cake class, bread/bake class and a cookies/cupcake class specifically tailored for children.

Chef Daniel’s culinary pedigree includes stints at Mirabelle – Marco Pierre White’s flagship restaurant in the heart of London’s Mayfair, and a 3-Michelin starred restaurant within

@thephuketnews

Chef Daniel Back. a private members’ club in London alongside Jean-George Vongerichten.

He has also worked with William Curley, who is widely known as ‘Britain’s best chocolatier’, and at Nobu, where he was sent to train the restaurant’s pastry teams in Hong Kong and Dubai.

Baking classes at The Nai Harn are conducted in the open kitchen of the seafront Cosmo restaurant: Each class is from one hour up to one and a half hours duration and B2,200 per person per class. For more details about the cooking classes and to book a spot, contact 076 380 200 or fbreservation@thenaiharn.com.

Six hours of love and labour.

The ribs are everything they should be, and are bound to satisfy the pickiest of rib-eaters. Sweet, sticky, salty and fragrant, they make for a fun eating experience. The side-salad also carries over the amalgamation of flavours, combining Gorgonzola cheese with figs, apricots and walnuts for a combination of tastes that is addictive as it is stimulating. Together with the combination of crumbly cornbread (mildly sweet, mildly salty) with a pat of butter, the ribs are worth the effort of messy eating.

Despite being stuffed to the brim, we moved on to the bread pudding soufflé for dessert. Warm and homey, we dug in to the hot soufflé as it fell. Cinnamon, cardamom and walnut topped with

custard make for a comforting flavour palette executed expertly in the form of soufflés.

If you prefer to visit on a weekend, Fisherman’s Catch (a seafood hotpot) happens on Sunday nights, accompanied by a live jazz band. Fridays features Thai Nights for a more local dining experience. The weather, the view and the beautiful décor are only the opening notes to a fantastic experience at SALA Phuket. SALA Restaurant is worth experiencing, and it is bound to be able to cater to various tastes.

For reservations you can call 076 338 888, or contact their page facebook.com/ salaphuket.

22 ISLAND SCENE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE NOVOTEL PHUKET RESORT Novotel Phuket Resort's management, employees and guests, paid their respects to Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her birthday last Friday (Aug 12). The ceremony was led by the hotel's manager, Mr Wutti Sanjorn. Long Live Her Majesty the Queen.

JW MARRIOTT PHUKET RESORT & SPA CELEBRATES HM THE QUEEN'S 84TH B'DAY JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa in collaboration with the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation participated in the auspicious occasion of the 84th Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara as well as Mother’s Day festivities last Friday (Aug 12) at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, Cape Panwa. The day saw volunteers from JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, International Union for Conservation of Nature, business partners and 43 orphanage children from Yaowawit School join hands-on programs including beach-cleaning, marine life and conservation education, releasing sea turtles and more.

BANGKOK HOSPITAL CELEBRATES MOTHER'S DAY For Mother's day this year, Bangkok Hospital Phuket branch wanted to send love and give a smile to mothers as an honor to HM the Queen who turned 84 last Friday (Aug 12). They created a special gift basket to give away to new mums who gave birth on the special day at Bangkok Hospital.

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL AND PRACHARAK CO LTD DONATE TO AUGUST BABIES Pracharak Raksamakkee (Thailand) Co Ltd supports projects created by the community and government to boost the economy, including agricultural products, and tourism for the community. Phuket International Hospital took recently took an opportunity to support Pracharak's most recent project by ordering 84 cloths to swaddle babies, which were made from Batik and given to newborns in honour of HM the Queen this past Mother's Day. thephuketnews

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ISLAND SCENE 23

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

UNITY in community: Daniel Limbuprasertkul of the Phuket Nepalese community (4th left) with Vijay Tiwari (3rd left) and Devan Mydeen (5th left) of India Embassy Bangkok and associates.

INDIAN COMMUNITY CELEBRATES 70TH INDEPENDENCE DAY Hundreds of the island’s Indian residents and friends gathered in the Aroonrat Hall at the Patong Resort Hotel on Monday (Aug 15) for a traditional Indian feast catered by Chef Rishi and Vicky of Delhi Darbar Restaurant, and Sunny of Indian Delight. The event, supported by the Indian Community Welfare Association and the Embassy of India in Bangkok, aimed at strengthening ties amongst Phuket’s growing Indian community. It was also attended by members of the Nepalese and Pakistani communities.

Vicky and Rishi catered the event.

Vijay Tiwari and Afsal Khan

THANYAPURA AND PHUKET SOCCER SCHOOLS HOST FAMILY FUN Phuket Soccer Schools hosted a family fun day at Thanyapura last Saturday (Aug 13), where mums and dads, as well as children of all ages showcased their talents.

From left: Khun Kael, Pascal and Michael.

PROFESSIONAL TOASTMASTERS MEETING Pascal picks up Best Speaker at the Aug 9 meeting of the Phuket Professional Toastmasters which are held at the Swissôtel in Kamala on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. @thephuketnews

24 EVENTS

FRI

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SUN

19 AUG

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

21 AUG

Bellini After Hours

WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY

Come join us for our WEEKLY BBQ EVERY FRIDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong from 12pm-Late! 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!!! RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit.ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

Chalong nightlife will never be the same with the launch of Bellini After Hours, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday only, dance the night away with the Bellini Band and DJ from 10pm till 2am.

Pizza available all night. Join us for our opening weekend starting this Friday night, remember to like us on Facebook to get a free drink. More info on Facebook - Bellini After Hours.

Traditional Sunday Roast Angus O’Tool’s Karon Beach

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

Xana Full Moon Party - Vol. 6

XANA Beach Club is once again bringing Thailand’s world-famous Full Moon Party to Phuket.

The phenomenal night features remarkable DJ Jay Please and Xana Very Own DJ Wii, thrilling entertainment, astonishing fire performance and much more! Tickets are THB300 with 1 Free Drink. 076 358 500.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

A CASUAL SUNDAY BRUNCH BY THE POOLSIDE

All Day Breakfast at Cafe Siam

Aussie bacon & egg rolls NOW at Cafe Siam.

All day breakfast, just like mum makes. Lavazza Coffee, 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.

Indian Curry Night on Fridays Come to Navrang Mahal in Karon Sea Sands Resort & Spa for an authentic Indian Feast first and third Friday of the month, in Karon Beach. Try out our delicious Aloo Tikki, Samosas, Chicken Tandoori, Aloo Gobi, Navrang Korma, Butter Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Naan, Rice, Salads, Chutneys/Achars, Pistachio Ice Cream, Gulab Jamun, Fruits. Extra dishes on the menu: ONION BHAJI, BOMBAY ALOO, DAL MAKHINI, VANILLA ICE-CREAM. For only 499/- nett and special reduced prices on drinks.

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.

SAT

Relaxing afternoon by the poolside featuring a lavish spread of international delicacies and fresh seafood from the Ocean. Special Promotions: (1) A group of over 10 people receive 20% discount. (2) Birthday celebrations – birthday person receives a complimentary Brunch. The rest of the party, if over 10 people receive 20% discount. All prices are subject to a 7% government tax and a 10% service charge. Children’s prices are applicable to those aged from six to twelve. Children under the age of six dine with our compliments. RSVP, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234.

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.

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.

Sunday Gourmet Brunch At Bodega and Grill

Relax with your family and friends while enjoying a lavish Sunday Brunch featuring a delectable international seafood buffet complemented by a 12 course degustation menu featuring finest selection of gourmet plates. Bodega Sunday Brunch from 12pm till 3pm price start from 1950++. Reservations recommend call our F& B Reservation team on 076 324 101 ext 8938.

20 AUG

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.

Sunday Tapas

This is what Sunday lunches are meant to be - fabulous, fresh unlimited and Western and Asian tapas with friends and family crafted by the talented team of chefs at Banyan Tree Phuket. Starting at THB 2,000 net per person.Reservations, Banyan Tree Phuket, 076 372 400 # 5463.

Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY

Come enjoy a Traditional Sunday Roast EVERY SUNDAY at Two Chefs Kata Center, Karon, Kata Beach and Patong. Indulge in our Traditional Sunday Roast ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT for ONLY 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! RESERVE Your Table Now Online at bit. ly/TwoChefsReservations Check out more details on our website at bit.ly/TwoChefsEvents.

DAILY EVENT UPDATES ON

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EVENTS 25

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

MON

22 AUG

THU

25 AUG

old holding a USGA or nationally recognized handicap, the championship will consist of 54 holes, with each age-group gross winner of the championship earning themselves places in the 11th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final hosted

by Sir Nick Faldo at Laguna Lang Co in March 2017! Contact golf@lagunaphuket.com to learn more about the event!

THU All you can eat BBQ night

6PM – 11PM: Beef, Pork, Chicken, Burgers, Sausages, Prawns & Squids, salad buffet, Choice of potatoes & Sauces, Bread, Buns & garlic bread Reservation recommended 395 baht P.P. shakersphuket@gmail.com, 081 891 4381.

TUE

23 AUG

15 SEP

Thursday Pool Parties @ Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket

Thursday Pool Parties Are Here! Every Thursday from 5pm to 9pm at the main Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket Pool – the one beside the beach -- we’re hosting our beloved Pool Parties. Live DJ, Pool and Poolside Activities, Great Food and Happy Time Prices.

Wear your Board Shorts and Bikinis. Check in with us for specific themes – a new one every week. Centarahotelresorts.com/cgwp or call (0) 76 372 000 for details.

SUN

28 AUG

Public Speaking made easier

The Reboot & Re-energize your Body & Mind Workshop

This inspirational program is designed to educate, motivate and understand hormonal balancing, the cortisol connection, stress reduction and much more. Full program THB 22,000 net p.p. (excludes accommodation). One off classes from THB 900.

15% discount before July 31. Limited numbers.

Reservations and special accommodation rates contact linda.overman@marriotthotel.com or 076 338 000 ext. 3752.

SAT

17 SEP Phuket International Sportfishing Tournament (PIST) 2016

Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today! Invitation only. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info.

WED

24 AUG

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.

TUE

23 NOV

Beatles Night at Two Chefs Karon

Do you enjoy the Beatles? How about Traditional Sunday Roast? The BEATLES EXPERIENCE you’ve been waiting for is back! Come enjoy all of your favorites on August 28th from 6pm at Two Chefs Karon! Enjoy an ALL YOU CAN EAT Traditional Sunday Roast for Only 395 Baht! Featuring: Roast Aussie Beef, Pork Loin, Chicken, Roasted or Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Mixed Vegetables with Thyme and Garlic, Yorkshire Pudding/Red Wine Gravy Our Two Chefs Band will be playing Beatles Classics all night long! Bring your song requests!Don’t Miss Out! RESERVE Your Table NOW at bit.ly/ReserveTwoChefs Check out more details at bit.ly/ TwoChefsEvents.

THU

8 SEP

A Night at the Opera 2016

For the third year running our guests will be able to listen to the beautiful pop-opera songs performed by FIVERA. On the evening, they will be performing a blend of popular operatic arias and classical pieces. Make sure to follow this page or our Facebook Event Page to be in the know about this amazing fundraiser for the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation.

SUN

Registration is on the 23th November 2016 from 4pm onwards Location Tamarind Bar & Grill in Chalong. The weight station will be at the Tamarind Bar & Grill in Chalong on all 3 fishing days, 24th, 25th & 26th November. The final evening and prize giving party will also be held in the Tamarind Bar & Grill, Chalong More info at www.phuket-international-sportfishing-tournament.com The event is proudly supported by Live 89.5 and The Phuket News.

SUN

27 NOV

9 OCT

Ocean Marina

12th Mai Khao Turtle Fun Run and Mini Marathon 2016

Phuket FC VS Nara United

Wednesday August 24, Phuket FC VS Nara United at Surakul Stadium. Kick-off 7pm. Admission B50 adults, Free for children with school ID Card. Proudly supported by The Phuket News.

@thephuketnews

Faldo Series – Thailand Championship South 2016

Open to all junior golfers aged 12 – 21 years

The 12th Annual Turtle Fun Run will raise money for the Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, a non-profit located at the JW Marriott Phuket.

There will be a 2.5 km Family Run (1000 baht/ family), a 5.3 km Fun Run (300 baht/person), and a 10.2 km Mini Marathon (350 baht/person) and all registrants will receive a free running shirt. More info on Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation Facebook.

OCEAN MARINA PATTAYA BOAT SHOW 2016 Ocean Marina Yacht Club, Pattaya . Demonstrating Pattaya’s image as one of Asia’s leading seaside resort hubs with outstanding facilities and the capability to host large scale international events. The show will stimulate tourism, as well as marine industry and related businesses such as boat building, boat sales, boat charter, boat parts & accessories, boat services, water sports and marina based property sales. Tel: 02 661 6800 and ask for Ocean Marina Pattaya Boat Show, info@oceanmarinapattayaboatshow.com

26 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York Across 1. Which short adventure novel is about a dog named Buck?

2. The Burj Khalifa skyscraper is in which city?

3. Potsie Weber and Ralph Malph featured in which sitcom?

4. Frankie Fredericks represented which African country in athletics?

5. After 18 years, who finally broke Fredericks’ 100m Indoor World record?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

55. “Got my ___ working” Elvis 1. Yawp 57. Led 5. ___-free 62. Alaskan 9. Less typical islander 14. Daughter of 63. Minus Poseidon 64. Fashion 15. Corn bread 65. Bogs and 16. A-list mosses 17. Sped up 66. Fastidious 20. Brownish purple 67. Guess 21. Molded, as metal 22. Closemouthed Down 25. Give a thumbsdown to 1. Clear the tables 26. E.Indies tree 2. Gallery display 27. Relating to 3. Midget the Christian 4. Finnish person Orthodox church 5. Coinage 29. Craved 6. An unbound 34. Be dependent manuscript of 35. Astrological ram some ancient 36. Genesis name classic 37. Errs 7. Wahoo fish 41. Exploit 8. Care for 42. Benefit 9. Practice 43. By way of, briefly 10. Smart ___ 44. Qui vive 11. Baltic capital 46. Most ironic 12. Itinerary info 48. Backslide 13. Break 49. Laundry room 18. Give up, brand slangily 50. Eggs 19. Neatens 51. Reorganization 22. Whisper

23. Anxiety 24. Did a farm chore 28. Word of support 29. Characteristic 30. Grade 31. Tie up 32. Very 33. Appoint as agent 35. Out there 38. Parts of the line of battle that project closest to the enemy 39. Park, for one 40. Hog’s home 45. Seek a date 46. Swelling 47. Indian prince 49. Correct 51. Give and take 52. Healthy 53. Not in port 54. “Hey, you!”

56. Resistance units 58. Chi preceder 59. Fast no more 60. Rap sheet letters 61. Cotillion V.I.P.

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) Call of the Wild; 2) Dubai; 3) Happy Days; 4) Namibia; 5) Usain Bolt

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history

1.6

■■ Aug 19, 295 BC The first temple to Venus, the Roman goddess of love, beauty and fertility, is dedicated by Quintus Fabius Maximus Gurges.

8.5

■■ Aug 20, 1858 Charles Darwin first publishes his theory of evolution through natural selection, alongside Alfred Russel Wallace’s same theory.

times more energy is used running on the beach than on a track or other hard surface.

per cent of adults worldwide currently have diabetes. The rate was 4.7% in 1980.

■■ Aug 21, 1961 Motown releases what would be its first #1 hit, “Pl e a s e M r Post man” by The Marvelettes.

59

per cent of people around the world struggle to understand the information in nutrition labels, according to a 2012 survey.

2,510

■■ Aug 22, 1642 Charles I calls the English Parliament traitors. The English Civil War begins.

refugees fleeing conflict and instability in Africa and the Middle East have died crossing the Mediterranean Sea so far this year already.

■■ Aug 23, 1765 Beginning of Burmese–Siamese War.

21,764

households in New York City reported incomes over $1 million in 2013 – that’s 47% more than in 2009.

Source: Uberfacts

■■ Aug 24, 1981 Mark David Chapman is sentenced to 20 years to life in prison for murdering John Lennon.

Nursing macaque at ‘monkey hill’ in Phuket Town. Photo by John Knicley Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

■■ Aug 25, 1609 Galileo Galilei demonstrates his first telescope to Venetian lawmakers.

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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Jobs

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ADVERTISING SERVICES

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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 BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale, built 2012 2x cummings engines, 10 hrs work only, International REG. Excellent for live - aboard or ferry, price 6MB. contact call Joe 087 8918912 or joe@similan-divers.com.

Dual banana boat for sale

Dual banana boat for water activities. 4.2 m long, 1.6 m wide. Up to 14 riders. This banana boat is brand new, packaging still intact. Stored in a warehouse in Chalong. 40,000, Vladimir, sales@joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

Dive boat for sale

Dive boat Asian Adventure, length–18m, width– 4.6m, depth–1.7m, 1 Eng–315 H.P, capacity 40 passengers +3 crew. Located in Chalong, sales@ joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

1 engine speedboat for sale

Honda 250 H.P. 15 passengers+3 crew, length–8.10m, width–2.40, depth-1.6.

Excellent condition, sound system. Located in Chalong. Vladimir, sales@ joydive.asia, 0841828685.

Boston Whaler Conquest 255

Immaculate condition, Mercury 150hp x 2 very low hours, Thai registered. This boat comes with full inventory. Lying AoPo Marina Phuket. Mike, mikehigh1@gmail.com, 088 768 4701.

Yacht Chartering and Resort

Big A Swan 55 Yacht Chartering and Resort in Phuket Thailand Sailing : Big A Swan 55, Accommodation: Big A Resort 076-383080 Email: bigasail@samart.co.th.

ACTIVITIES, GROUPS Roof-top Patong Mini Golf

The best sea view 18 Holes, roof top Mini Golf. Located on the 4th floor of Banana Walk Plaza in Patong, 091 762 2628, http://patongminigolf.com

Free Tiya’s Hammocks campaign

Win Free hammock from Tiya’s Hammocks Phuket. Winner will get V Weave hammock, handmade from North of Thailand, weight capacity 250 kgs. Value 5,200 THB. More details visit Facebook: Tiya’s hammocks, Contact: Tiya, tiya@ tiyashammocks.com, 089 600 0041.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Business For Sale

No not a bar or guesthouse but a viable business not dependent on tourism or high seasons. All the machinery&inventory of materials to begin manufacturing wooden window blinds. This business has been a proven success in Phuket with over 5 years of profitable operations. Over 3 MB. in inventory included, 2 MB. with financing available. Call +6681 487 4812 or lamsden@phuketemail.com for photos&details.

Restaurant for sale in Rawai

All new equipment, air conditioned, private terrace, unlimited parking. All offers considered. optispa@gmail.com, 088 386 9132, 063 067 4498.

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.

Restaurant for take over

Fully equipped restaurant in Rawai for take over in a popular tourist spot. High density crowd. 10,000FT and air condition. June, Rawai, senajune@gmail.com, 081 978 5989.

Looking for a Partner Investor

I am looking for a Partner/Investor to expand my Dive business. Anyone interested please email me to discuss the proposal. rwhi690169@bigpond.com

Bangla agogo club for sale

A newly refurbished bar/club with great returns is for sale. Fully fitted out over 2 floors. Very cheap and very low rent. Reliable landlord. Steve, stevepearcergj@hotmail.co.uk, 089 587 0819.

Business for Sale

Non-tourist/bar related business for sale, yearly turnover of 15MB. Call 087 276 0529 or 081 968 6051 for more details.

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PETS

Horse and Dog Vet Hospital

Open from 10am. – 8pm. *Service all types of animals. * Experienced professionals. Contact: 076 620 136 / 084 210 6868 and contact@horsedogvet.com www.horsedogvet.com

Pets Magic Planet

Open from 9am. - 7pm. *The best international brands. *The ultimate choice. *Luxury accessories & jewels. Contact: 076 620 106 / 091 040 4000 and contact@petsmagicplanet.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Newly renovated hotel for rent

Newly renovated hotel/guest house in Patong’s heart for rent from owner. 12 rooms, 2 shops to busy street, many facilities. More details check thephuketnews.com, search Listing ID 55398 or call +66(0)81 538 1399.

German bakery & deli & snack

Main road, 8 years clientele, take over + incl. training complete equipment, staff room, 3 or 5 years leasing contract. Yearly volume 4mn. hansibakery@gmail.com, Price: 3.5 million, Contact Mr. Stark.

CAR FOR SALE 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.

2012 FORD RANGER

Ford Ranger 2.2 Diesel Hi Rider 22 Inch wheels, tonne cover, sheep skin seat, cover, showroom condition, 24,000 kms, by careful expat driver. 660,000, dougwatson@hotmail.com.au, 097 045 2788.

TOYOTA ALTIS 1.6G AT

2008. 62K kms. White. Usual G refinements.

Insurance, FSH, Lady driver 395K baht ono 395K, Clive Roberts, crob58@gmail.com, 081 087 9237 or 086 270 8727.

TOYOTA Fortuner 2009

7 seats, Silver, GPS video, Family car Diesel 2,694cc, Blue book Service history Toyota Pearl 78,000kms. AUTOMATIC transmission, golfguru2005@yahoo.co.uk, 076 615 827.

Nissan Teana 2.5Lt

Model 2014 17,000km. New price 1.7Mln NOW 1,050,000 Baht Eng: 081 788 8280 Thai: 090 163 2140, Contact Maurice, maurice.phuket@gmail. com , 090 163 2140.

t ge n

s al

e

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000kms. One owner since new. Regularly Ur serviced by Honda. Tax and Insurance until the end of June and available now at right offer. Reduced by 40,000 bht, REDUCED to 330,000bht o.n.o, Andy +66846909144, andysmalster@gmail.com

CARS WANTED Urgent need Toyota hilux vigo

Want to sell your Toyota hilux vigo Champ ? vigo4u is the best palace to sell your Toyota.

Vigo4u now in Phuket, Pataya and Bangkok also. 084 344 3444, 02 810 8117.

MEMBERSHIPS Blue Canyon Membership

Blue Canyon Membership for sale. 1 corporate nominee for sale THB 630,000 inc transfer fee. grahamhaslam@hotmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE New loft trailer

Fully welded steel construction. Proper fenders springs, hitch, lights, toungue jack, alu deck. Fits M/C, ATY, const, landscape. 1700 lb. cap. 65,000 THB, 081 693 8214.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Prime Land near Natai Beach

13 Rai Prime flat land full chanote 5 mins to beautiful Natai beach 5 mins to Khok Kloi 20 mins from Phuket airport. Close to temples, beach & mountain views perfect for large property or subdivide for development.

13,500,000, James Thai & English, 091 878 5240, dannyred@hotmail.com

Nai Harn Pool Villa

Brand New 3 bedrooms near the beach, activities and restaurants 8.5 mlb only. Call 095 036 5536 for viewing or more info, contact Jonathan.

MOVING SERVICES Looking for 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.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES 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. 1990, md@tourasian.com, 080 826 4665.

OTHER For Sale

Industrial over locker. Whitehouse Brand. 3 Thread. Brand new never used.

Full tool kit. Bargain at 12,000 Baht. Call Sandi 087 264 0778.

Office Space Laguna

Office Space Laguna - Plaza del Mar Fully Furnished offices 4 Office Suite plus boardroom Rent entire unit or individual office 080 045 4474.

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

COMMUNITY

MOTORBIKES FOR SALE MAX SYM 400I

Big comfortable 2012 scooter one expat owner. Only 2,600 kms., has had 1st service a great bike, reason to sale leaving Thailand. 150,000, Doug Watson, Phuket, dougwatson@hotmail.com.au, 097 045 2788.

PERSONAL SERVICES De Laguna By Dr.JaQ

International Clinic English Speaking Doctor By Appointment 095 0851188 FB: DrJaq Warnnissorn Providing Anti-Aging (Botox, Filler, Live Cell Therapy, Alternative Cancer Treatment, Chelation Medical, House Call). Integrative and Advancement in Medicine for individualized treatment programs for patients of all ages and with various disorders, Email: tosawcute@gmail.com

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Buy&Sell

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PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Outstanding Beach Front Pool Villa

2 New Resale Condos 3.9 MB. 7%net ROI

A rare opportunity to purchase a 4 bedroom beachfront villa in a 5* resort at The Village Coconut Island. A “snip” at 22m THB. Contact email aadmo@btinternet. com, Somjit, aadmo@btinternet.com, 081 9791945.

1 bed condos on the market 7%net ROI for 14 years!

Rare Pool access modern hilltop unit. Panoramic views of Andaman Bay & city lights of Patong. Also 1 bed city & ocean views, fully furnished & professionally managed. You just collect 7% net/year hassle free. Contact phuketjon@ gmail.com, 084 842 2262.

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

House for sale

Private pool villa with lovely garden half a rai. Quiet 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. Price 8 million baht, 225 000 euro, bergsstigen@telia.com, 090 701 4204.

Kay McDonnell

I have a number of FIRE SALE PROPERTIES from 1.5 MTB to 47MTB. Condos/Houses/Villas Please contact me if you are looking for bargains in the south of the island. 080 124 1245, kay@pare.com

Nai Harn Pool Villa For Sale

Near the beach, activities and restaurants Brand New 611 Sqm. 16.75 mlb Call 095 036 5536 for viewing or more info, Contact Jonathan.

House for Sale

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

MAI KHAO LAND

Beachfront land in Mai Khao. East coast. 3 rai 2 ngan 24sqw. For sale: 45 million baht. 45 million.

D Condo Creek, fully furnished

Studio 5th floor, mountains view. Cool & quiet.

24 hrs security, 3 swimming pools, gym. Shops & restaurants around. Rent out good return.

1.85 MB., Tiya, Kathu Phuket, lodchong77th@ yahoo.com, EN & TH 089 600 0041.

Modern home office for sale

Modern home office for sale located 400 m fr Central Intersection. 1 Unit has 1 commercial, 1 living space, 4 bedrooms & built-in bathrooms. Owner, thip_june19@yahoo.com,

087 543 4716.

Horst Lakits

Resort for sale/lease long term, in Chalong/Rawai Area own big well 22 rooms 2 Rai land large pool Restaurant parking No Agents. lets talk, Horst Lakits, 67/18 Soi Sermsuk, bigasail@samart.co.th, 086 940 1860, 076 383 080.

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PROPERTY FOR SALE New Sea View Villa

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

Being built on the highest point in the estate, only 80 meters from the ocean and located 3 mins away from Grand AoPor 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 pollution and no mass tourism... More than 600 Sqm usable building area, 3 bedrooms, guest apartment, maid quarters, games room, 10 meter infinity swimming pool, roof terrace and breathtaking 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 24.9 mill Baht. For viewing or more information please contact our sales director, Khun Montha 081 343 0777 Email : montha_phuket@yahoo.com.

Two-story house in Phuket City

Land 400 sq. m, living area 344 sq.m, 6 rooms, 3 bathrooms, maid’s room with bath. Fully furnished. Very good for living and business.

15,000,000.-, Pauline Haldemann, haldemwa@hotmail.com, 081 895 0038.

Patong Tower and Andaman Beach suite for sale

Mountains and Sea Views, Call David 080 692 6114, email: patongrealestate@gmail.com

Sea View Land 265 Met. Pub.Rd.

Great investment. 3/5 Rai Plots. NS3G Titles.

Price start 4 M/Rai. Full infra. 265 Met. Pub. Rd. Frontage. Located on Koh Yao Yai resort area, just 25 min. speed boat from Phuket.

We can make easy half day trip 10am-2pm. Call Charlie /more info, charlesaraines@hotmail.com, 062 069 1965.

Laguna - Luxury 1 Bed & Golf Membership For Sale

Totally renovated: new kitchen, wood floors, furnished, sound system. Price includes Laguna Golf Membership and Privilege Card. THB 6.9M. Owner 084 247 1632 - E-Mail: phuket3203@gmail.com

Owner Sales Appartment “ The Pearl of Naithon “ Leasehold

Total area 226,66 SQM including terrace 41,25 Sqm. 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms. Price THB 13.5 million. MP: 089 814 1458.

Villa For Sale / Rent

Located at Naiharn beach Soi Naya 3, Mountain view, Swimming pool, Balcony, 2 floors, 4 bedrooms. Total 92 sqm. Thai 081 958 0542, ENG 081 956 6813.

34 CLASSIFIEDS

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Buy&Sell

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

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PROPERTY FOR SALE Karon Beach New House For Sale/Rent

80 Sqm. 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Terrace carport. Nice Sea view.

Sale 5.8 MB. Rent long term 18,000 per month. Gunter Kraus, Phuket, naruchai@gmx.de, 091 040 2471.

Phuket Beach Front Land

14 RAI Beach front Phuket,Phungnga Close 5-7*hote,Chanode title,90 meters of water frontage More than 100 m wide beach&small piece of land close to the beach 25MB/RAI, Ms.Pam, phuketmyhouse@gmail.com, 089 868 8668.

The Base Downtown - Sale/Rent

1 Bed (35sqm) & 2 Bed (60sqm), fully furnished, pool view. Near Central, BIS, Big C, Lotus, Siriroj hospital, Darasamut School, Thai Hua School (Close to new Central Embassy- good investment). Swimming pool, fitness & library. Rent:15,000-25,000 THB/month and 35,000-45,000 THB/month. Panattaporn.c@gmail.com, 093 639 4654.

Chalong Villa for sale

Living area 450 sq.m, Land 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Seaview terrace, Pool, Carpark. 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 19.5M, oliver@ thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

Alexander Kolesnikov

Land & 4 storey commercial building for sale. Patong. Just 60 m from the beach. Guesthouse with 6 luxury rooms + restaurant 40 seats. 17 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

SMALL RESORT BY LAGUNA

4 Luxury villas, office, 2 pools, 1 Rai - Chanote. Secure investment, price below replacement cost, money maker. Owner 82 retiring. 30 Mil Baht.

Lets talk. Owner, 089 594 4067.

House For Sale

Located in Rawai soi Samaki 3, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 Laundry room, 1 storage room, living area 160 sq.m, Chanot title 280 sq.m. 3.2 MB., Rico9963@hotmail.com, 083 640 9041

Brand new 3 bed villa Onyx

Living area 160 sq.m. Land 200 sq.m. Fully luxury furnished. Open plan living room with kitchen, private & peaceful area, security gate estate, gym. 8.9M, oliver@thurmanngroup. com, 087 877 2320.

Villa for sale

Exclusive villa with pool and garden in Phuket, Rawai/Nai Harn, Land size: 1’700 m2, build up area 400m2. Private sale, no agents please.

36 MB, JasminConsulting@gmx.net

Land for sale - Mission Height

NICE LAND FOR SALE AT MISSION HEIGHT, JUST OVER ONE RAI. Phone 093 629 4400 English, 082 421 4842 Thai.

Alexander Kolesnikov

3 Bedroom villa for sale. Building 320 s.m. Land 900 s.m. Nice garden, 2 car garage, study. Just 3 minutes from BIS. 15 MB, Contact Alexander, alexkolinz@gmail.com, 089 651 3250.

Waterfront Condominium

The Cleat Condo, residence project in Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina. Price 3-9MB, size 37119 Sq.M., 1 or 2 bedroom, marina view. For rent/sale. marketing@phuketpropertytrip.com

Kata Seaview Condo For Sale

New 1 bedroom with great sea and sunset views! 44sqm. Leasehold with foriegn freehold available. Swimming pool, sauna and clubhouse. Flexible furniture options. Great management and rental program, 082 254 0760.

For Sale or Rent

4 bedroom 3 bath room with excellent views of Chalong Bay. 3 storage, fully furnished all new swimming pool in quiet area Rawai beach. All inquires. Tidarat, 087 466 5635.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR RENT

Anuphas Golfville House- Kathu

Apartment for rent

Land 162 sqwa. Large Pool/Jacuzzi-3 Bed-4 Bath-Office-2 Storage Building-Alarm System and much more. Reduced 22MB to 18 MB for Quick Sale. mrgeoffcurry@yahoo.com, Si +6681 970 8896 TH/ENG, Geoff+6681 854 0061 ENG.

Luxury 1 bedroom ground floor apartment.

65.s.q.m. Central Patong. Short or long term rental. For details email ianscondo21@gmail.com

2 BDR Bungalow, Nai Harn Beach

For rent with “Free UBC Platinum cable TV”, security, air-con, fridge, stove, quiet area, at end of cul-de-sac, 12,500 per month.

Call 098 017 8818 or 087 884 8972.

Ocean View Land Kamala

Half rai 797sq.m. cleared and leveled, power connected, sealed road, MUST SELL 6.75million. For ENG 090 492 3101 THA 093 768 6694.

Rawai Sea View Condominium For Rent

Partner for resort wanted

5 Rai. hillside Maikhao beach. Main buiding finished. Nice sunset seaview, 087 267 1192, Julius_schuster2001@yahoo.de

Short/long-term rental. 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, Stunning sea view, Fully furnished, Large swimming pool, lift. reservation@ almaliresidence.com, 0935742533

Land For Sale 3 Mil Baht

Office/Shop for Rent

In Thalang area 2.5 Rai beautiful, flat land with access road, Chanote title, only 5 minutes from Thanyapura (PIA International school). sk.thanya@gmail.com, 081 737 8624.

Ground Floor space with excellent positioning on Chalong Pier Road. For more information, please call 081 416 4177 or 076 381 341.

House in Karon for Sale

Hard to find 3 bed room , 3 bathroom house for sale in the perfect location near Kata & Karon beach, well maintained with a salt water pool, Price : 16,000,000, Narrisara (Tic), 7/8 Patak Soi 10, Karon, g-a-coates@hotmail.com, 0991642991.

House For Rent at tennis club

2 bedrooms,1 en-suite bedroom,2 bathroom, living area and big veranda. Ideal for tennis coach.

Prefer long term rent. Viewing by appointment only.

Patra, patbittersweet@gmail.com , 081 607 2805.

Sea view land in Patong

The last piece of seaview land on prime location in Patong, just 500m from Patong beach, 1.3 KM. to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Contact: Karuna, kpattarawalee@gmail.com, 089 967 5373.

For Sale/Rent (5 Days - 6 Months)

4 Floors, 6 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms. Fully furnished. Kuku, Phuket Town. Contact Joy, 093 596 2757, joyfulphuket@gmail.com

PROPERTY FOR RENT

LUXURY POOL VILLA

BY LAGUNA

Kathu Condo for Sale/Rent

36 Sqm Fully Furnished with Pool & Fitness. Rent start 9,000 monthly. Close to Patong, Central Festival Phuket and Prince of Songkla University. Lily Line ID: 0841094466, flyfreelily@gmail.com, 084 109 4466.

Villas & Apts Rent-Chalong

2- and 3-bedroom pool villas, 2-bedroom townhouses & studio apartments. Special prices from 700/night or 8,000/month. Rates include WiFi, maid service, cable TV, furnishings. Great location near Big Buddha. info@chalongapartment.com, 086 282 6221, www.chalongapartment.com

4BED 4BATH GOOD LOCATION

A secure 4-bed 4-bath with a swimming pool in Baan Suan Loch Palm. 5 mins to BIS, 12 to 15 mins to Central, Patong and Phuket Town.

65000THB, jenjiramountford@gmail.com

2 bed house for rent, Kathu

Furnished 2 bed house for rent in Kathu, quiet area within easy reach of Tesco Lotus, Central, golf courses and fresh market. 15,000, Nok Roper, daveroper@live.com, 095 257 5382.

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 10000-15000 per month; 54,5 sqm. – THB 15000-20000 per month + electricity&water, Ekaterina Oseledets, 095 861 7571.

Phuket Office Share @ RPM

Searching for a prime location address as your office on Phuket? We are inviting small companies or individuals to join us in sharing our office space @ ‘Royal Phuket Marina’. Email us or call us on: 076390482 for full details.Phuket Luxury Living, info@phuketluxuryliving.com, 076 390 482.

Has everything, comfort, security, live in a small resort - lush tropical garden. 35,000 Baht per month. Long lease. Owner, 089 594 4067.

Retail space for rent

Retail space available in the Ocean Plaza Patong for massage, beauty, coffee, souvenir shops etc. Low rent contracts for up to 12 yrs. For info call Natty at 086 281 8883 or 076 343 506. 3632, Nattida Thaboondee, g.cummings@hotmail.com, 086 281 8883.

Chalong villa for rent

Living area 450 sq.m, Land: 800 sq.m. 1st floor: Living room, Master bdr with en-suite bth, Kitchen, Sea view terrace, Pool, 2nd floor: 4 bdr with bth, 2nd living room, Office. 90,000/month/ year., oliver@thurmanngroup.com, 087 877 2320.

Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai

FOR RENT Amazing Sea view Penthouse in Rawai.

360 p ํ anoramic breathtaking views of Chalong bay, mountain view and big Buddha. Two bedrooms, 310 sq.m of spacious living area and balconies. Please contact Izzy 086278 8300 or Danai 090 170 0429. propertysales@serenityphuket.com

House for rent - Near Pah-klok

Long term, quality furnishings, near Heroines Monument, 3 bed, 2 baths plus office. Good garden. THB35,000 per month. Call 087 878 5804.

PATONG: 1 and 2 Bed Apartments

2-Bed/2-Bath & Studio for rent. Balcony. Full A/C. Western Kitchen. Modern furnished. All Extras. Fast WIFI free. Quiet Location & well maintained.

Email : khunrei@gmail.com, 084 185 8536.

CHALONG BEACH FRONT LAND

Direct beach front land for rent. Long and short term. Area 2400 sq meter with beach front of 40 meter, Contact: Mr. Narin, narinpga@ gmail.com, 081 826 9390.

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THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

SPORT 35

Ting Tong Bar closes gap on Wet Dreams in PPL POOL

Phuket FC’s Nattapoom Maya. Photo: Hari Jib

Dragon march on Continued from page 40 ...Whatever the outcome, there is one thing the fans and club management should take a positive from this season, and that is the team has faired equally as good as teams now positioned higher than them in the league table.

In some games, for example, Phuket should have actually taken three points against such teams, as was the case against now top of the table Suratthani FC, but poor refereeing decisions meant that the results didn’t go their way.

Speaking of Suratthani FC, Phuket will be looking to get their revenge for what should have been a win when they

@thephuketnews

played them at home, as they take them on tomorrow (Aug 20) in the away leg.

The team left the island this morning (Aug 19) to prepare for the game, and it is hoped a large number of Phuket fans will make the four hour journey down to the Surat Thani Central Stadium to give the team some support.

Kick-off for the game is set for 6pm.

Phuket then return to Surakul Stadium on Wednesday (Aug 24) for what will be their final home game of the 2016 season against 2nd-placed Nara United.

The Phuket News is proud media sponsor of Phuket FC.

AIS SOUTHERN REGION DIVISION 2 Team

MP W

D

L

GD Pts

1

Suratthani FC

18

11

5

2

11

38

2

Nara United

18

9

5

4

13

32

3

Yala United

18

9

3

6

6

30

4

Ranong United

18

7

8

3

1

29

5

Trang FC

18

7

5

6

2

25

6

Pattani FC

18

7

4

7

7

25

7

Satun United

18

6

7

5

4

25

8

Phuket FC

18

5

9

4

1

24

9

Phattalung FC

18

5

6

7

-6

21

10

Hatyai FC

18

6

1

11

-13

19

11

Phangnga FC

18

3

5

10

-10

14

12

Nakhorn Si Heritage 18

1

6

11

-16

9

TI NG TONG BAR AR E now just four points behind top of the table Wet Dreams Bar after they gained 11 points when due to play Amigo who have now dropped out of the league. All teams set to play Amigo will be awarded 11 points as per league rules.

Wet Dreams weren’t helped by the fact that they narrowly lost 4-7 away from home to Genius Bar, this being Wet Dreams’ first loss of the season.

Meanwhile, Dirty Nellies played Champs Bar at home and lost 7-4. John P and Eric won their doubles leg with all seven balls still on the table, as the black was accidentally potted by a member of the Dirty Nellies team, who shall remain anonymous.

Simon & Oils had a big 8-3 home win against Martin Swiss, while Sports Bar were

Pim from team Martin Swiss.

6-5 victors away from home to M&M Bar. In the local derby between neighbours 1Bar and Natalie Bar, 1Bar come through as winners on the night sealing a 7-4 win. Goh from 1Bar won his singles and doubles games, taking him back to the top of the individual players league.

If you’re interested in joining the league as a team or would like to play for a team please contact Scott on 0817289509.

Matt Pond

League Standings Wet Dreams Ting Tong 1Bar Genius Sports Dirty Nellis Champs Martin Swiss Natalie Simon & Oils M&M Amigo

74 70 67 66 65 62 58 56 55 45 42 0

36 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

One for the ‘Heartbreakers’ 2nd Accor Hotels ‘Heartbreak’ Hill Mini-Marathon 2016 ATHLETICS

More details

A

fter a successful 1st year, Accor hotels southern Thailand invites you to be part of another exciting and challenging event, the second “Heartbreak” Hill Mini-Marathon 2016.

Why Heartbreak Hill?

Heartbreak Hill refers to many steep ascents in the Naithon-Layan area during the race, considered difficult and challenging for the runners.

The Naithon-Layan hills will test runner’s right from the start until the end and the elevation is different for each climb. They want people to test themselves against the hills, you will either climb it or it will beat you.

To help encourage the runners entertainment will be provided on the hills including cheerleader groups, DJs and more.

Fun Run - 5K B250 registration fee with running kit (shirt) Mini-Marathon - 10.5K B350 registration fee with running kit (shirt)

Others

• Trophy for 1st-3rd for the group runner of the most participants • Luxury prize for 1st place of Mini-Marathon winner for overall male and female • Luxury prize for 1st place of Fun Run winner for overall male and female • Lucky draw to win gift vouchers • Lucky Draw prizes from downloading “ACCOR HOTELS APPLICATION” *Get a chance to win free nights in 20 Accor Hotels” in Bangkok and Phuket by downloading the APP

Runners of all calibres will turn out to run the hills in the Naithon-Layan areas, with participants being tested right from the start until the very end of the race.

There is no other minimarathon they are aware of on the island that has this type of challenge and excitement.

All of this will take place in the natural scenery around Naithon Beach, Layan Beach and the areas where they hope

to rename “Heartbreak Hill” after the event, as a reminder to those people training for their future mini-marathon.

The race starts at 6.00am on Sunday, September 18.

The objectives To create an annual fund-

raising event which supports the improving the education and well-being of underprivileged children within the community we all live and work. Their priority is to raise funds for local schools in Phuket and nearby provinces

and support their Accor Yim Kids Project, which is a part of ACCOR HOTELS Corporate Social Responsibility.

The second objective is to encourage everyone to strengthen their bodies with exercise and maintain a

healthy lifestyle that provides a social connection between runners, hotel guests, associates, school children, university students, government officers and the local communities of Phuket and nearby provinces.

BISP student makes big impact on Thailand tennis TENNIS

Meeting the world’s greatest:

Simon Jones, former Head Coach of the BISP Swim Academy at British International School, Phuket (BISP), is now Head Coach of the Thailand National Swim Team. He has been in Rio for the Olympic Games and got to meet Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, with a total of 33 medals.

THIS SUMMER, BRITISH International School, Phuket (BISP) student and BISP RPT Tennis Academy player James Van Herzeele dedicated his vacation time to taking part in tennis tournaments in Bangkok and Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).

Altogether, James participated in five tournaments and made the final in every one.

He played both international tournaments and Lawn Tennis Associate of Thailand events, in the boys age categories of 14, 16 and 18 year old.

From the five finals, James won two championships and three runner-up places, full results as follows:

BISP student and BISP RPT Tennis Academy player James Van Herzeele in action in one of his five summer tournaments.

1. Champion Boys Single 16Y – Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand Tournament #4, Pyramid Sport Complex, Bangkok.

2. Runner-up Boys Doubles 18Y – Impact Super Junior Series Tennis Tournament 2016, Impact Sport

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS

Club, Bangkok.

3. Runner-up Boys Single 16Y – Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand Tournament #5, Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima).

4. Runner-up Boys Single 14Y – Asian Tennis Federation Circuit 1, Bangkok (50

players, 20 nationalities).

5. Champion Boys Doubles 14Y – Asian Tennis Federation Circuit 2, Bangkok (50 players, 20 nationalities).

For more information about tennis at BISP, visit bisphuket. ac.th/tennis

Run: #1594: Saturday August 20 Run Start Time: 4pm Hares: Jaws, Hawaiian Ho, TOTF, Baldylocks Location: Chalong, Chao Fa West - Soi Annussorn 200 Pee Rd - top of the hill Directions: From the south, go through the lights at Thanon Kwang and turn left, so 200 metres onto Annusorn 200 Pee road. (See also Korean BBQ sign.) Go straight up the hill (and down a little bit) for 2.5 kilometres and laager will be on the right on the grassy areas. HHH Truck and Hash bus will be sign posted.

Coming from the north, head south through Central Festival Intersection along Chao Fa West until Thanon Kwang traffic lights. Make a U-turn at the lights and turn left after 200 metres at the HHH sign onto Annusorn 200 Pee road. Follow the above. Coordinates N. 7.880843 E. 98.350440 Hash Bus Pickup Schedule: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 2:30pm Patong @ Expat Hotel: 3pm

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

SPORT 37

Kuckerja Boks take C&C Marine Cricket 8s title CRICKET

N

ewcomers the Kuckreja Boks took the 2016 C&C Marine Cricket 8s title at the Alan Cooke Ground (ACG) on Aug 7 with strong performances against the Island Cricket Club (ICC) and the Phuket Blasters.

The penultimate day got underway on a damp ACG with a light drizzle falling, the slippery conditions favouring the batting side. The Boks amassed a league high 1/165, H Jordaan 84* (42), H McDonald 36* (15).

A place in the final was the reward for the winner and ICC threw everything at the Boks early to reach 0/51 after 5 overs. However, the wheels fell off the ICC wagon in the 6th over with the loss of two wickets. ICC batted through their 16 overs, finishing their season with a 57-run loss.

Phuket Cricket newcomers the Kuckreja Boks walked away with the first C&C Marine Cricket 8s title at the ACG on Aug 7. Photo: Michael Way. In the second game, top of the table the Phuket Blasters didn’t have it all their own way against the winless Patong.

In the rain-affected match, the Black Horses put in their strongest performance of the season churning out 6/99

Dtun, one of the island’s best surfboard repairers.

Want to repair your board?

SURFING

SKYLA’S SURF HOUSE

Tim Campbell info@surf-sup.asia

HEY SURFERS, SOME big winds have brought in some bigger swells, which is moving the sand around forming, yep you guessed it, long awaited sandbars.

Hold onto your hats ‘cause after this storm passes and the clean ground swell hits, we are in for some great waves.

Has your surf board taken a few beatings lately?

Or have you just bought a new board, and as you carefully took it out of the car knocked it on the door leaving a nice big crack?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and the good news is Phuket has people who can fix those dings.

A new surfboard is not going to stay new for very long, especially if you actually ride the thing. Cracks, dings, paint scratches, @thephuketnews

snapped noses & fin boxes are all a part of the game.

Depending on the size of the repair, your board should be back in your arms after a couple of days with you smiling like a kid at Christmas. It won’t look like it did when you first stepped out of the surf shop, but performance will not be affected by the repair.

For all you “do it yourself ” people, you ca n Google “how to fix my surf board” and give it a crack yourselves, or you can take it to either of the best local repair guys on the island. Tony in Kata (084 746 6385) or Dtun in Cherng Talay (096 917 2171).

Both do a really great job and get you back in the water quickly.

Tim’s Tip: Don’t lay

your board down on it’s rails, that’s when most of the cracks happen.

Instead, lay it down softly with two hands on the board’s front or back sides.

from their 12 overs. S Hamilton 20 (17), N Quail 20 (11).

Needing 8.25 runs per over to win, the Blasters lost M Sadarangani (8*) to an injury early on. Off the next ball Quail bowled Master Blaster A Khan.

But S Khan’s experience got the Blasters to the target with just three balls to spare. Blasters 2/103 (11.2), S Khan 34*(26), I Malik 20 (10).

The Boks sent the Phuket Blasters in to bat first in the C&C Marine final. After watching the Boks score 165 runs in the morning, the Blasters sent their two biggest hitters out to bat at one and three.

Khan (14) was the first wicket to fall, followed shortly after by Malik (8).

The Boks strong bowling line-up didn’t provide any re-

spite for the Blasters batsmen, restricting them to 3/52 at the 8-over drink break.

Three wickets fell in three overs after the break, then the Blasters were eventually all out 85 from 12.5 overs. R Sadarangani 18 (18), H Jordaan 2/10, E Jacobs 2/13.

Chasing the lowest C&C Marine 8s total this season wasn’t too hard for the in-form Boks. Two LBW decisions in the first two overs brought the small ACG crowd to life but P Morton and A Van Blerk weren’t about to let the cup slip away.

The two combined for a 70-run partnership, passing the Blasters total with 5.3 overs to spare. Boks 2/87 (10.2 overs), Morton 33* (27), Van Blerk 18* (13).

BISP golfers shine at int’l tourneys GOLF TWO STUDENTS FROM British International School, Phuket took part in world championship golf tournaments over their summer break, with one claiming victory and the other coming a well-deserved fifth in a high-level competition.

Napat “Toy” Paramacharoenroj claimed victory in the World Stars of Junior Golf 2016 tournament (Boys 13-14 category) held in Las Vegas by a remarkable 9 strokes from his nearest challenger.

The World Stars of Junior Golf is a premier world junior golf tournament. Their mission is to provide junior boys and girls of all ages with the most competitive field and the ultimate tournament experience.

Toy posted scores of 69 (3 under par), 69 (-3), and 64 (-8), which gave him a three round total of 202, or 14 under par.

Meanwhile, Vanchai “Mark” Luangnitikul took fifth place at the Golf Teen World Championship 2016, held at the famous Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina, United States.

Run by the US Kids Golf Foundation, the 2016 US Kids Golf Teen World Championship showcased over 600 players from more than 40 nations – including coun-

BISP student Napat ‘Toy’ Paramacharoenroj with his winner’s trophy. tries as diverse as Indonesia, New Zealand, Zimbabwe and Thailand. Now in its 11th year, the Teen World Championship serves as an aspirational goal for teenage golfers across the world.

With a three round total of 216, Mark tied for fifth place, a strong performance following a string of impressive results in national and international golf tournaments over the last year, and intensive training under BISP Golf Academy Head Coach Oliver Bates at the new BISP Golf Centre, which was opened by Sir Nick Faldo on March 10.

Before the Teen World Championship 2016, Mark competed at the Enagic Junior Championship, run by the American Junior Golf Association, where he scored 207 over three rounds, to come just strokes under the winner.

For more about golf at BISP, visit www.bispgolf.com

38 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Romain Grosjean’s American Dream Franco-Swiss driver leading the USA’s only F1 team up the grid EXCLUSIVE BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

A

s rain fell on what little of Lotus’s equipment had made it to the paddock, the team confirmed it had been locked out of its mobile office for not paying its bills to Japan’s race organisers The 2015 season had turned grim for the Enstone squad, but one man was unaffected by the gloom: lead driver Romain Grosjean’s smile bore no signs of strain as he endured his Friday media meet-up.

Grosjean knew his rescuers were at hand. Just four days later he was announced as new team Haas’s first F1 driver.

The salvation may have been bittersweet – at 29 years old Grosjean knew he was in the prime of his career – but Lotus’s dire situation made Haas an attractive gamble.

“Change is always a risk, but I think you have to mea-

Haas F1 driver Romain Grosjean poses on HAAS' VF-16 car during the official presentation on the first test day of the Formula One Grand Prix season. Photo: Jose Jordan/AFP sure the risk,” Grosjean told The Phuket News. “I think it was a discussion with Gunther [Steiner, team principal] and Gene [Haas, owner] on their mentality and their approach.

“You don’t get to see everything, because you’re still a competitor, but Gunther gave me enough to make me believe that it could be great.”

Less than six months later Grosjean was sat in the team’s first F1 car at its first race.

From a lowly 18th in qualify-

ing he finished a sensational 6th. The gamble was certainly paying off.

Though the dream start wasn’t to last – points were scored just thrice more in the following 11 rounds – the pair’s consistent competitiveness in year one earnt Haas and Grosjean new credibility.

“It’s just a small team with a great atmosphere. The way they manage the team, the way the mentality is – it works.”

Though nine races still

remain this season, F1’s financially frugal midfield has forced Haas to switch focus from its promising 2016 beginnings to its 2017 challenger in an attempt to win an early crucial edge.

It’s part of the long-term plan to becoming a race winner, central to which is having Romain in the car.

“They didn’t want a pay driver,” Grosjean said. “I’m sure they had thousands of phone calls with drivers with

whatever millions, but they wanted an experienced driver.”

For a fledgling team like Haas, this leadership from the cockpit is just as important as leadership from the pit wall.

“I will always like to be the leader, I will always like to be 100 per cent in everything, but in the end being a leader is not to control everything.

“Driving the car is one part, but trying to get it the way you want around the track is another one. It is as much a challenge as driving.

“If you give the team trust, they give it back to you.”

Romain wasn’t always Grosjean The Leader.

A string of ugly crashes in 2012 had Mark Webber brand him a “first-lap nutcase” and the stewards ban him for one race.

After sitting out two seasons after his lacklustre 2009 debut his career again hung by a thread.

His faith in his skills unshakeable, Grosjean put mind over matter and visited a psychologist – rarely used, much less spoken about, in F1 – in an attempt to save him from himself.

“I think sport in general is a man’s world, where it’s not good to say you see a psychologist.

“I don’t really care about speaking about it. I want to be better than the others, that’s why I use psychology.

“That’s why you use a trainer, that’s why you use the best engineers as possible – it’s trying to get all the best things around.

“I could’ve stopped [going] a long time ago, but actually I kept working with her – I’ve got more tools.”

Those tools are being put to use building Haas.

Grosjean has scored all Haas’s 28 points, putting it above car manufacturer Renault, 2010 debutant Manor, and F1 stalwart Sauber in the constructors standings.

Though the honeymoon has been sweet, Haas knows making it in Formula One has forever been removed from simply turning up.

Taking the next step will challenge F1’s Anglo-American team, but in Grosjean’s self-made attitude the team has its star to lead it bravely into the future.

China laments Rio ‘flops’ OLYMPICS CHINESE SPORTS FANS turned on the country’s athletes and administrators Wednesday (Aug 17) as the Asian giant languished behind Britain – once dismissed as an “old declining Empire” – in third place on the Olympic medal table in Rio. In the early days of the games, Chinese media sought to play down the athletes’ relatively poor showing, instead praising their competitive spirit and arguing that medals were not “the be-all and end-all of the Olympics”.

But by Wednesday even the official Xinhua news service could not help showing a little annoyance.

“Even #GBR has one more gold than China,” it wrote on a verified Twitter feed, snapping that China’s gymnasts had “suffered the worst Olympic flop” after failing to win any golds.

It was even blunter a day earlier in a post showing Britain leading the world’s most populous country in golds with the comment: “You

China’s Dong Bin looks at his bronze medal after the men’s triple jump final. Photo: Jewel Samad/AFP kidding me? The country which has never finished above China is about to...”

That post was rapidly deleted.

But in a report on the gymnastics results it lamented that the “traditional powerhouse” only took two bronzes in the team events, adding it was the first Olympics where China had failed to win an individual gymnastics medal.

The nationalistic state-run newspaper Global Times – which has previously dismissed Britain as an “old declining empire” whose “national strength cannot be placed in the same rank as

China now” – tried to keep spirits up Wednesday with an article headlined “Happy Without Gold: Chinese public unfazed by sluggish medal winning”.

But the mood online was less upbeat.

Some fans complained the Team China athletes owed taxpayers a better return for the money invested in their training, and criticised the efforts of failed medallists who said they were simply happy to compete in Rio. “The athletic skills every athlete possess are half owned by the state,” wrote one user on WeChat.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

SPORT 39

PREMIER PREDICTIONS: ENTER NOW AT THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

Five things we learnt in the Premier League T FOOTBALL

he Premier League season began last weekend, with Hull City stunning champions Leicester City while both Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and Manchester United counterpart Jose Mourinho made winning starts. Here are five things we learnt:

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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 August 2016 will receive a THB3,000 voucher to spend at any of the branches of Two Chefs Bar & Grill.

EPL PREDICTIONS MONTHLY STANDINGS 1.

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LFC444 adamrosindale marcher MRB sam3838

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English Premier League 2016 - 2017 Team 1

Leicester City’s manager Claudio Ranieri gestures as he talks with striker Jamie Vardy in their game against Hull City. Photo: Lindsey Parnaby/AFP

Leicester left in the starting blocks Leicester’s players cannot say they were not warned as the champions lick their wounds after Saturday’s embarrassing 2-1 defeat at crisis club Hull City. Foxes manager Claudio Ranieri had said there was more chance of aliens landing in London than there was of Leicester mounting a successful defence of the Premier League title they had won so unexpectedly last season. His message proved on the money as Hull,

under caretaker management and with only 13 fit senior players, kicked off the new top-flight season in stunning style. Everywhere Ranieri looked there were problems as Jamie Vardy, so prolific last season, missed chances and captain Wes Morgan creaked alarmingly in defence. The energy and power of N’Golo Kante, the driving force of the title triumph who has since joined Chelsea, was badly missed in midfield.

Guardiola’s City revolution will take time Pep Guardiola made his presence felt in his first league game as Manchester City manager against Sunderland, notably benching goalkeeper Joe Hart in favour of Willy Caballero. He set his team out in a 4-1-4-1 formation that morphed into a 3-2-4-1 system when City had the ball; Fernandinho dropping back between the centrebacks from his holding role and full-backs Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy stepping up into central midfield. The

@thephuketnews

home side monopolised possession, seeing 77 per cent of the ball, but nonetheless struggled to create chances.

City were punished when Jermain Defoe cancelled out Sergio Aguero’s opener and needed an 87th-minute own goal from Sunderland debutant Paddy McNair to prevail. Guardiola said his players needed to “take more risks” in possession and it is likely to be a while before they feel fully comfortable with the team's new shape.

Liverpool’s Senegalese midfielder Sadio Mane scores Liverpool’s fourth goal against Arsenal on Sunday (Aug 14). Photo: Lee Mills/AFP

Arsenal could do with some defenders

Arsenal were missing Per Mertesacker, Gabriel and Laurent Koscielny for their opening game against Liverpool. It obliged manager Arsene Wenger to align 21-year-old Calum Chambers and 20-year-old new boy Rob Holding in central defence and the inexperience in his back line shone through in a chaotic 4-3

defeat. Wenger defended the pair afterwards, arguing that the defence had not been solely responsible for Liverpool's goals. But with a trip to Leicester to come next weekend, Wenger needs Koscielny to recover match fitness quickly if he is to avoid having to make an emergency move in the transfer market.

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Man Utd Liverpool Chelsea Hull Man City Swansea West Brom Everton Middlesbrough Southampton Stoke Tottenham Watford Arsenal Leicester Sunderland West Ham Burnley Crystal Palace Bournemouth

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Ibrahimovic and Mourinho already in harmony With a raucous “C’mon!” and a touchline fist-pump, Jose Mourinho celebrated a winning start to his Manchester United reign as his new side won 3-1 at Bournemouth.

Mourinho's introduction to United fans was his joyous jig down the Old Trafford sideline after a late Porto goal sent his team through in the Champions League 12 years ago.

While the Portuguese was not quite as energetic at Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium, his reaction to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s secondhalf strike was instructive.

Mourinho is determined to restore United to former

Ibrahimovic scored in the first game of the season.

Photo: Glyn Kirk/AFP glories after being sacked by Chelsea and the talismanic Ibrahimovic is central to his hopes of winning the title.

The Swede’s superb 25-yard finish, which followed goals from Juan Mata and Wayne Rooney, was therefore an encouraging sight.

Gary Lineker stuck to his word and presented the first ‘Match of the Day’ this season in his underwear.

Gary Lineker is a man of his word After Leicester preserved their hold on first place in the Premier League by beating Chelsea last December, the club’s former striker Gary Lineker tweeted: “If Leicester win the @premierleague I’ll do the first MOTD (Match of the Day) of next

season in just my undies.”

Eight months on, he was true to his word, introducing the BBC’s flagship Match of the Day highlights programme wearing only a pair of white boxer shorts stamped with a Leicester club crest.

AFP

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Are you ready to take on ‘Heartbreak Hill’? > page 35

ALL TO PLAY FOR

The Andaman Dragon’s Danish striker Marcus Lassen was often on the receiving end of some harsh tackles. Photo: Hari Jib

Phuket can still qualify for new ‘Thailand League Championship’ FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

T

hough it is now clear that the A ndaman Dragon will not likely be able to reach a position to qualify for the final Division 2 Champions League promotion play-off round at the end of the season, and thus vie for promotion to the second-tier League 1 division (D1) next season, there is still much to play for in the final leg of the current year.

The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) plans of a new league system next year – one that ensures that even draws hold more weight on a club’s promotion prospects.

Despite dropping down to 8th position in the 12side AIS Southern Region Division 2 (D2 South) table following a goalless against Ranong United last Saturday (Aug 13), Phuket FC can still benefit from finishing as one of the top five clubs in D2 South, and thus going up to the new Thailand League Championship league to be added next year, for which the 3rd-, 4th- and 5th-placed

teams from four of the eight regional divisions will automatically be promoted to.

This league will effectively be the new third tier of the Thailand professional football leagues for the 2017 season and will be divided into two zones, each with 16 teams. These teams will join the 13 teams who fail to gain promotion to D1 from the Champions League play-off at the end of the year.

At present, clear information about the new league is very scarce. As far as The Phuket News can decipher, teams placed at 5th in the remaining four of the eight regional divisions will also have a chance to move up from D2 by competing in a play-off – or similar competition – in which a yet unan nounced number of teams will gain a place in the new Thailand League Championship.

Speaking to The Phuket News on Monday (Aug 15), Phuket FC Club Manager Pannapat “Jet” Limsattoe said that he was being realistic about where the team would finish in the league table and that his main hope now is to finish 5th.

Remain in Division 2

An image showing how the Division 2 final standings work for the 2016 season. Image: Matt Pond.

When he took over the position – at the same time Royal Raya Sport took over the club’s ownership – he thought that the team could reach 4th.

“I just want the team to aim for 5th place, and with our current standing that is completely possible,” he said.

“We could even make 4th meaning we get an automatic place in the Thailand League Championship, but that would depend on other teams losing a lot of their remaining games. Let’s just be realistic and say that 5th will be good enough,” he added.

Whatever the outcome in Phuket’s four remaining

matches, hopefully the club won’t repeat mistakes of past seasons in which vast changes are made to coaches and players and the team is not given the chance to build on what they have already in place.

Most professional football clubs are not successful in their first year in competition.

However, they build on the teams they already have in place to make them stronger and better and they are then able to fight for promotion in the second season.

A large number of last weekend’s activities on the island were cancelled due to Friday’s (Aug 12) bomb

explosions in Patong. Phuket’s game, however, went ahead as scheduled on Saturday evening amidst tightened security.

Phuket FC’s management originally sought to cancel the game following Friday’s incidents. Officials from their opponents, Ranong United, were adamant the game went ahead.

Officials from both clubs also considered playing the game behind closed doors, but after Phuket FC managed to draft in extra police and security, the game kicked-off as scheduled at 7pm, with around just over 700 fans in attendance.

Going into the game, the 18th of the 2016 season, the Andaman Dragon sat at 6th in the table on 23 points, while the visiting Andaman Sharks sat at 3rd on 30 points.

Following Phuket’s win against Trang FC the previous week, which saw the team come back twice from being a goal down, fans were hoping for a repeat performance.

However, many must have been disappointed that the game remained goalless after the full 90 minutes.

Much of the reason it

remained goalless was down to a waterlogged pitch, which clearly took its toll on the players of both team’s legs even after the first 45 minutes.

Neither team really had a clear scoring opportunity during the 90 minutes, and Phuket were clearly missing key play-maker Sukree Etae, who was unable to play due to personal reasons. Sukree was key to Phuket’s victory against Trang FC on Aug 7.

Another thing lacking from the game, and has been missing from Surakul Stadium all this season is Phuket’s vocal support, which has always been a highlight of many games in past seasons.

Support this season mainly only comes when the team are winning, and not when they need they need it the most, while they’re drawing or have fallen behind.

Other games played over the weekend certainly didn’t go Phuket’s way, as despite coming out with one point these results were what caused the team to drop two places to 8th in the table on 24 points, while Ranong dropped one place to 4th on 29 points.

Continued page 35 thephuketnews