21-07-2017

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FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

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Two Michelin star chef in Phuket

A tourist couple check the clip on a parasail safety harness before they are lifted off Patong Beach. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot

PARASAIL RIDES RETURN TO BEACHES AFTER TOURIST DEATH SPURS ARMY SAFETY CHECKS The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

P

arasail operators returned to Phuket’s beaches on Wednesday (July 19) after clearing mandatory safety checks by Royal Thai Army experts on Monday.

The mandatory safety review was ordered by Phuket Governor Norraphat Plodthong after death of 70-year-old Australian tourist Roger Hussey in a fall at Kata Beach last Wednesday (July 12).

Mr Hussey plunged some 70

metres into shallow water at Kata Beach after his harness somehow became unclipped from the parasail suspension lines.

The parasail rider, Rungroj Rakcheep, and the speedboat owner and driver, Montiean Jandang, were both charged with recklessness causing death over the incident.

Maj Prasert Saythongtae, Chief of Special Warfare at Sichon Camp, Royal Army Region 4 in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, confirmed to The Phuket News on Wednesday that two parasail operators failed the

safety checks – one in Karon and the other in Patong.

“While conducting the safety checks of the parasail operators’ equipment on Monday, I found only one operator from Kata-Karon and one operator from Patong [that failed],” Maj Prasert explained.

At the safety review on Monday (July 17), Maj Prasert made it clear that parasail operators should use harness clips that include cloth fasteners that prevent clips from opening simply by pressing on the latches.

The operator at Karon was told

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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to replace the harness clips used.

However, more seriously, the operator at Patong was told to replace the parasail chute as a precaution.

“They have changed these already, they’re not a problem.” Maj Prasert said.

Maj Prasert declined to name which operators failed the checks.

“I have yet to file my report. More information will be available later,” he said.

“I have informed operators that they must use clips that are guaranteed by the manufacturer for at least...

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Two tourists drown, woman rescued

T H E BODI ES OF T WO Chinese tourists who disappeared while swimming at Freedom Beach last Sunday (July 16) were recovered from Patong Bay, about 500 metres south of Patong Beach, on Wednesday (July 19).

Liu Wei Jie, 21, reported his friends missing after they failed to return to the beach last Sunday.

The two men, Wang Xi Dong and Guo Zi Jie, both 21, reportedly ignored red-flag warnings and entered the water despite the dangerous surf.

A search was launched but failed to find the two men over the next two days. Finally, Kusoldharm Foundation workers confirmed to The Phuket News on Wednesday, “We found the bodies at 1:02pm today.”

Mr Liu had the sad duty of identifying the bodies as those of his friends.

Also on Wednesday, lifeguards at Patong Beach rescued a female Chinese tourist from drowning at about 9:30am.

“We saw the tourist was hit by a wave and started to drown. I took a jet-ski to

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Krabi kingpin blames previous attacks for family massacre > page 7

The price of ‘ice’

Police chief fears impact of cut-price crystal meth Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

Lifeguards attend to a Chinese woman rescued from strong waves at Patong Beach on Wednesday. bring her back to the beach,” said lifeguard Samart Ratthanamart.

“She was choking on water and weak, and fell unconscious. After we assisted her with first aid she was taken to Patong Hospital.”

The woman later returned with her family to thank the lifeguards for saving her life.

“We will continue to strictly watch people because now there is strong wind and waves on the western beaches of Phuket. Even when red flags have been put up some people still went into the sea.

We are very worried,” Mr Samart said.

Tanyaluk Sakoot Additional reporting by Eakkapop Thongtub

P

huket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen has voiced “great concern” about the plunging street price of crystal meth (ya ice) after a small arrest led to the seizure of 7.5 kilograms of the drug in a single raid.

In the first arrest, last Saturday (July 15), Lt Col Worraphong Phrom-in together with a team of officers from Patong Police arrested Weerawut Tarurak, 38, from Satun, when he was found in possession of 50 methamphetamine (ya bah) pills.

During questioning, Weerawut told police that Mongkhol Saeyang, 29, a dealer from northern Thailand who goes by the name “Mr Phieng”, had a network of dealers in Phuket.

This led to Lt Col Sutthichai Tieanpho together with a team of officers from Phuket Provincial Police organising a sting operation where they agreed to buy 500 grams of

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen voiced his concerns to the press on Monday (July 17). Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub ya ice from Mongkhol for B70,000.

Mongkhol ordered his younger brother Wanchai “Chai” Saeyang, 27, to deliver the 500g of ya ice to undercover police in front of the 7-Eleven near Bangkok Hospital Phuket on Yaowarat Rd in Phuket Town.

Wanchai was arrested with the drugs.

During questioning by police, Wanchai revealed that he had other illegal items including 7kg of ya

ice hidden in two properties.

Police first went to a house on Soi Samakkee in Phuket Town where they discovered an automatic handgun and 42 bullets.

They then searched a unit at the Phanason Green Places Condominium in Rassada, where they discovered 7kg of ya ice, 122 ya bah pills and 59 bullets.

Wanchai told police that the drugs were delivered to Phuket via Kerry Express and the network on Phuket

had already received 54kg of ya ice.

During a press conference held at Phuket Provincial Police Station in Phuket Town on Monday (July 17) to announce the drugs haul and arrests, Gen Teeraphol said, “The price of ya ice has decreased from approximately B1 million per kilogram down to B140,000.

“From this price we believe there are more ya ice users, which is of great concern. We will certainly need is to keep our eyes on this,” he said.

Tourist in fistfight with tuk-tuk driver Parasail rides back in the air

AN AMERICAN TOURIst and a Phuket tuk-tuk driver have shaken hands and made peace after they were each fined B2,000 for fighting over a B200 tuk-tuk fare in Patong early last Sunday morning (July 16).

The fight broke out at about 5am in front of the Poppa Palace Hotel in Soi Jintana off Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Rd.

Nicholas Martin De Haan, 28, from Oregon, and tuk-tuk driver Burin Sukhontharot both confessed to hitting each other after a dispute over the fare, which Mr De Haan admitted he misunderstood would be B40 instead of B200 from Bangla Rd to the hotel.

A video clip of the fight went viral on social media sites.

Eakkappop Thongtub

Nicholas Martin De Haan, 28 , from O regon, and Patong tuk-tuk driver Burin Sukhontharot shake hands at Patong Police Station.

Continued from page 1 ...six months, and that all equipment used must be checked at least every six months,” Maj Prasert noted, adding that he would prefer the Army conduct the regular safety checks.

“But that would be up to the Governor to decide,” Maj Prsaert explained.

Maj Prasert rated the safety checks as “99% complete”.

“I have not spoken with the Phuket Marine Office, which was to inspect the boats used for parasail rides,” he explained A report of all the safety reviews will be sent to the Governor, as requested, he added Meanwhile, Winai Chitchiew, who serves as Kamnan (Subdistrict Headman) for Kata-Karon on Monday said he expected the process to take weeks, on Wednesday he told The Phuket News, “The Kata-

Maj Prasert holds up a clip that includes a fastener that he called for all parasail operators to use.

Karon parasail operators have completed the equipment reviews already. It has been guaranteed by the Royal Thai Army. Only one operator had to change the clips.”

He thanked officials for their the quick action in getting the parasail rides back in the air.

“We appreciate the good service they have provided,” Mr Winai said.

At the safety review on Monday, Governor Norraphat told The Phuket News, “Next, experts from Royal

Army Region 4 will report to me on the safety checks they have conducted; that will take time.

“Also, we have yet to draft a standard health form for customers wanting to take a parasail ride. We must talk about that further,” he added.

Mr Winai also assured that any safety guidelines drawn up as the result of the review and training would be handed down to the Kata and Karon parasail operators to observe.

“I will write up the rules and standards and submit them to the Army as quickly as possible so they can ratify them to become regulations,” he explained.

“All parasail operators at Kata and Karon must carry out full checks of their equipment, and upgrade them where necessary.

Also, the Army must give their approval (of the safety regulations),” Mr Winai said.

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FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Papke confesses

PHUKET NEWS

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German expat admits to slaying Lek, say police Eakkapop Thongtub editor@classactmedia.co.th

G

erman expat Nico Papke t h is we ek confessed to killing his girlfriend Pischa ‘Lek” Nampadung, a 35-year-old beautician from Rawai whose body was found wrapped in blankets and dumped in the Phuket jungle on July 9.

The confession came at Chalong Police Station on Tuesday (July 18), after Papke had been escorted under armed guard from Vachira Phuket Hospital. The German had been recovering after he tried to slash his own throat with a box cutter when police moved in to arrest him on July 9.

Papke, a 35-year-old fitness instructor, initially denied the accusation on July 10 when police notified him that he was under arrest for the murder of Pischa while Papke still lay in his hospital bed.

Police then charged Papke for murder and concealing Ms Pischa’s body last Wednesday (July 11) while he remained in hospital.

German expat Nico Papke (right) confessed to killing 35-year-old Phuket beautician Pischa “Lek” Nampadung, say police. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Wearing a black T-shirt with grey tracksuit bottoms, Papke on Tuesday was led into the police station still handcuffed and under guard by three police officers.

Sullen and quiet, the German was questioned by Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Col Witoon Kongsudjai and Lt Chanat Hongsittichaikul of the Chalong Police, who is leading the investigation.

A lawyer provided by the German embassy and an interpreter were present to assist Papke in answering questions.

“Papke confessed that he killed ‘Lek’,” Lt Chanat confirmed to The Phuket News.

“He cried,” Lt Chanat added.

After the initial questioning, police escorted Papke to the house in Rawai that he rented, where Papke killed

Safety checkpoints ordered on deadly Patong Hill road TO HELP REDUCE ACCIdents on Phuket’s notorious Patong Hill, officials from the Phuket Provincial Land Transport Office (PLTO) are to set up checkpoints on roads leading to and from the hill to monitor the condition of cars and drivers, check driver’s licenses and monitor alcohol levels of motorists.

However, officials from the PLTO official are not yet able to confirm when they will begin the checkpoints as the budget and workforce details have not yet been calculated.

The decision to start the checkpoints was made at a meeting held at Phuket City Hall on Monday (July 17) to pinpoint the risk factors and discuss prevention methods with regards to road accidents on Patong Hill.

During the meeting Bureau of Highway Safety Director Sujin Mungnimit suggested laying red anti-skid material on the road surface be considered, the resolution agreed upon was that the PLTO would be assigned to set up checkpoints around Patong Hill to monitor the condition of cars and drivers, check driver’s licenses and monitor alcohol use as a @thephuketnews

temporary accident prevention measure. The PLTO will be responsible for setting the locations of the checkpoints, The Phuket News

Gov Norraphat called the meeting after two recent deadly crashes on the hill.

Ms Pischa, reported police.

Leading the foray was Chalong Police Chief Col Prachum Rueanthong along with Lt Col Suchart Singha and other officers of the Chalong Police.

Papke was then escorted to the site in Wichit where Ms Pischa’s body was found.

Police have yet to disclose how Ms Pischa was murdered or explain why there were blood stains on the mattress in her rented room in Chalong. The blood stains on the mattress were discovered by relatives only after they entered the room to gather her belongings after her cremation last Wednesday (July 12).

Forensic police called in to assist the investigation last week also found blood stains in Papke’s rented car and sent samples for DNA testing as evidence.

Papke is to be held in the cells at Phuket Provincial Court until he is called to face the charges in court.

Additional reporting by Tanyaluk Sakoot

The woman was rushed to hospital after leaping from the rooftop terrace at her hotel in Patong. Photo: Patong Police

Mum dies after hotel leap; daughter, 10, left in room A RUSSIAN WOMAN DIED after leaping six floors from the rooftop pool terrace at a hotel in Patong early Wednesday morning (July 19) while her 10-year-old daughter stayed in their hotel room.

Police were called to the hotel, on Prachanukroh Rd, at 2am.

Officers led by Lt Col Jongserm Preecha found the woman on the ground in front of the hotel with serious injuries.

Rescue workers were quick to arrive and rushed her to Patong Hospital, where staff pronounced her dead from her injuries at 6:30am Police identified the woman as 39-year-old Polina Tarasova, from the Tyumen region,

bordering Kazakhstan.

Patong Police Chief Col Tassanai Orarigadech called the incident an “especially sad case”.

“The woman arrived at Phuket on Monday (July 17) and was due to depart next Tuesday (July 25),” Col Tassanai told The Phuket News.

“We were told that she had been having many serious arguments on the phone with her partner, but we are working with the hotel and will review any hotel CCTV footage available as we will investigate this death further,” he added.

The daughter is now under the care of consular officials, Col Tassanai added.

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PHUKET NEWS

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM Phuket Seven Day Weather Forecast

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Water safety gets boost Aussie lifeguards focus on kids’ safety, rescue skills

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joint project by the Phuket Lifeguard Service and professional lifesavers from Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) this week held a series of Kid’s Water Safety Training events on Phuket to highlight the need for greater awareness of beach safety on the island.

Also, as part of the ongoing campaign, 12 Australian volunteers were specially brought in to train local lifeguards on each of the main tourist beaches around the island.

The Australian delegation is also preparing a detailed manual during the training sessions that will be presented to the Phuket local authorities and serve as a blueprint for future best practice in surf life saving.

The news was made public on Tuesday (July 18) at a press conference at Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa, led by key members driving the initiative.

The campaign got underway on Monday as teams of

The ongoing campaign aims to raise water safety awareness and to train Phuket lifeguards to Australian standards.

Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot professional lifesavers from Australia joined Phuket beach guards in completing beach safety audits at the main beaches along Phuket’s west coast.

The teams inspected key tourist beaches to identify danger areas and draw up plans of what types of essential coverage is needed where.

On Wednesday and Thursday at Patong Beach, in front of the Graceland hotel where

the Patong Lifesaving Education Centre is located, Australian lifesavers and Phuket beach guards together conducted basic life saving training, including basic lifeguard rescue skills and how to perform CPR. On Saturday (July 22), the lifeguards will hold Kid’s Water Safety Training sessions on Kamala Beach, in front of the MontAzure Beachfront Sales Gallery and HQ Beach

Lounge. The training is open to children of ages 7-15, and aims to teach kids about having fun while learning to stay safe at the beach. The education component of the program includes beach safety, sun safety, what a lifesaver is and what they do.

MontAzure, which has already launched its ongoing kids’ water safety initiative, on Tuesday donated essential equipment, including automated external defibrillators and CPR training dummies, to Phuket lifeguards.

Setthaphol Boottho, Executive Director, MontAzure, said, “We are pleased to support this initiative and to help increase awareness and knowledge of beach safety amongst local children and their parents by providing on going assistance and volunteer participation.”

The Kids Water Safety Program is part of an islandwide initiative that has been running for several years to encourage children to have fun while learning to stay safe at the beach. Young participants join in a wide range of games, sports and educational

activities, which are designed to slowly build confidence in and around the water.

“The idea is to teach skills that will stick to the soul like sand from the beach and be carried for life,” explains David Field, Life Saving Development Officer from Australian Volunteers for International Development.

“These activities will lay the foundation to start a regular ‘Nippers Club’ on the island, not only to prevent sea deaths, but also to promote lifesaving as a sport,” he added.

“We would like to see Phuket lifeguards to rise to Australian standards. Also, we want to encourage more Thai women to learn lifesaving skills,” Mr Field told The Phuket News.

Phuket Lifeguard Service Chief Prathaiyuth Chuayuan invited any persons interested in the program to call him at 081-797-4775 or email thailifeguard@gmail.com.

The Kid’s Water Safety Training is proudly supported by The Phuket News.

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PHUKET DISASTER OFficials this week were tasked with launching a campaign of multimedia public notices to warn people of the dangers in the sea at Phuket beaches and major tourist locales, including other islands in the area.

Phuket Vice Governor Snith Sriwihok announced the campaign at a meeting at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) Region 18 office in Phuket Town on Tuesday (July 17).

The notices, which will include infographic videos, are to warn tourists about sea and water safety, he said.

The war nings will be broadcast on social media, on information signs throughout Phuket and at Phuket International Airport, V/Gov Snith explained.

The videos and signs will

A multimedia, multi-language campaign will warn tourists of the dangers of the sea in and around Phuket. Photo: Tanyaluk Sakoot / file be in English, Russian, Chinese, Burmese, French and Korean, and aim to help prevent tourists from drowning, he added.

“Phuket is special as it is surrounded by sea and is a hub for marine transport and tourism,” V/Gov Snith noted.

“This increases the risk of dangerous incidents in the sea,” he added. “In June, tourists died from drowning in the sea around Phuket – this is an

urgent problem that needs to be solved,” he said.

“So we need to communicate information about water safety to tourists so they understand the dangers. This increases their safety while they are here and builds their trust,” he added.

The budget for the project will be provided by the Phuket Provincial Office, V/Gov Snith confirmed.

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Opinion 6

OPINION

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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 Where the streets are paved with ice

N

ews of the major crystal meth drug bust this week with 7.5 kilos of ya ice seized in a condo north of Phuket Town was disturbing. It wasn’t the volume of drugs seized, or even the claim that the two main suppliers had confessed that they had shifted 54kg of the drug in previous shipments.

It was the price.

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen noted, “The price of ya ice has decreased from approximately B1 million per kilogram down to B140,000.”

Like any business, increased efficiencies in production techniques and delivery networks reduce costs over time for producers who can then afford to lower prices, but to appreciate where we are now with ya ice, let’s do the math.

At B1mn per kilo, that’s B1,000 a gram, or B250 per

250mg “hit”. That was already a lot cheaper than a bottle of gut-rot whiskey at a local entertainment establishment, for those wiling to take the risk. If Gen Teeraphol’s intel is accurate, that price has fallen to B140,000 per kilo, or B140 per gram. That’s B35 per 250mg “hit”, the same price as a can of beer. That’s not even pocket change.

In one way that’s kind of good news. It means that Phuket’s per capita usage rate has hit its ceiling. Whatever the number of people in Phuket who use ice, the suppliers have more than matched demand.

The bad news is that any decent entrepreneur will now seek new markets, new demographics, new people to sell their drugs to. Also, the appeal of the drug being so cheap will entice other people to try it as it is now so common and easily available in Phuket.

For the price of ice to fall so dramatically, the fear is that the island is being flooded with drugs and there is so much ice on the streets that dealers have to cut prices to shift it.

It also means that of Thailand’s decade-long “War on Drugs” policy has failed miserably and perhaps its time to try something different. Recent discourse by high-ranking government officials, most notably Justice Minister Gen Paiboon Khumchaya, have explored the option of taking a public health approach to drug use and putting addicts in treatment rather than in jail. So why not give it a try?

In the meantime, if you see a crazy driver out there, steer clear. It may not be a booze-fuelled tirade you’re witnessing, but a glimpse of the ya ice epidemic lurking under the skin of Phuket’s community.

TOP 10 STORIES ON thephuketnews.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Man, 70, dies after Phuket parasail fall German Nico Papke charged for murder of Phuket girlfriend ‘Lek’ Parasail operators charged with recklessness causing death American tourist in fistfight with Patong tuk-tuk driver over B200 Body found near closed Phuket nightclub German expat Papke confesses to killing Phuket beautician ‘Lek’ Motorbike taxi driver caught masturbating in public arrested, fined Relatives find bloodstained mattress in slain woman’s room Phuket, Andaman coast warned of heavy rain Ringgit tea money stopped at border

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HAVE YOUR SAY Self-regulation?

Re: Thai Army calls for safer Phuket parasail equipment Ha… self imposed ban! I was inspecting a property this morning and saw someone parasailing on Karon Beach RIC 23 More lip service meaning nothing at all until there is another death.

“All para sail operators at Kata and Karon must carry out full checks of their equipment, and upgrade them where necessary.”

Like asking the fox if the chickens are going to be okay.

“I don’t think they will be banned, they just have to follow the safety rules. We have only ‘asked’ them to not provide rides for now,” Governor Norraphat told The Phuket News. What a huge crock of…

Kangaloo ...................................................

Heads in the sand

Re: Phuket Opinion: Reinventing the wheel, again Totally agree that this constant change of governors does nothing to help as they all

seem to go back to the same drawing board. A quick and inexpensive measure would be to put speed humps, same as there are on the dangerous bends on Thepkrasattri Rd, from where the hill starts its downward incline.

This should force drivers to apply their brakes much earlier.

Placing Ultragrip or other such anti-skid asphalt on the hill would also improve safety, reducing the risk of skidding and thus should contribute to a reduction of these needless accidents on Patong Hill.

Phiti As long as they do not accept that this is not the problem of the road, but only the problem with the qualifications of the drivers and the service personnel, nothing will change… there are more steeper and longer hills everywhere in the world with zero accidents.

Jome ...................................................

Turtle habitat lost

Re: Officials stunned to learn turtle tried to lay eggs on beach south of Phuket Definitely, the illegal wall all along the beach blocks turtles to find safe sandy zone to lay

eggs outside the tidal area. The 50 metre public beach law is not respected by greedy entrepreneurs on the Andaman coast.

Asterix ...................................................

It’s the fishermen

Re: Sea turtle trapped in fishing net freed by Phuket lifeguards Another gift from Phuket’s careless and uneducated fishing fleet. Go up to the fishing fleet area at any beach and you will see the worst management of the marine environment, with much of the ocean debris common to beaches originating from these clowns… including all the fishing nets and lines that are cut away and carelessly discarded into the sea.

Ben Pendejo ...................................................

Baht only please

Re: Ringgit tea money stopped at Sadao immigration booths That’s right, no more ringgit, only Thai baht will be accepted. At both Sadao and Pedang Besar, farang get directed to a “special service counter” where if you don’t have B200 in the passport,

expect big hassles. Ugh, been through it many times.

Christy Sweet So why are they still charging B200 “tea money” at the border on the Ranong and Penang visa runs? That’s even for people with all the correct documents, work permits and retirement visa.

How can they say they are tackling corruption when it happens at just about every border? That means everyone that enters Thailand sees it as their first impression and also their lasting memory as they see it on leaving too.

Simon01 ...................................................

Missed a bargain

Re: American tourist in fistfight with Patong tuk-tuk driver over B200 fare B200 from Bangla to Soi Jintana sounds cheap. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a Patong tuk-tuk driver demand B500 for such a short distance.

They normally say that’s the minimum to go anywhere in Patong. Should’ve walked.

With the crazy one-way system it’s much faster. Even drunk it’s a five minute stagger.

Captain Jack

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THAILAND NEWS

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‘Spate of death threats’ Krabi massacre mastermind says attempted shooting led to murders KRABI Bangkok Post

T

he mastermind behind the massacre of eight family members, including three children, in Krabi has accused murdered patriarch, Worayut Sanglang, of trying to shoot him once, triggering a series of events that led to the grisly murders on July 10.

The assault resulted from a land mortgage conflict between Mr Worayut and suspected mastermind Surikfat Bannopwongsakul, aka Bang Fath, in which Mr Worayut allegedly threatened to shoot Surikfat, city police chief investigator Maj Gen Itthipol Atchariyapradit said on Monday (July 17).

The 41-year-old suspect, who is being detained at the 15th Infantry Battalion in Krabi’s Khlong Thom district, claimed Mr Worayut tried to attack him, but he did not report it to police.

“This accusation must be verified,” Maj Gen Itthipol said.

According to the investi-

@thephuketnews

National police chief Chakthip Chaijinda (second from right) and other senior police question the suspected mastermind of the Krabi massacre, Surikfat Bannopwongsakul, 41, with back to camera. Photo: Royal Thai Police gation, their conflict began in 2009-2011 when Mr Worayut “mortgaged” his father-inlaw’s land and his properties with Surikfat to seek loans worth B1.3 million under a consignment land sale contract. Last year Mr Worayut returned the money to Surikfat to reclaim his land rights but was rejected by the lender

who claimed the mortgage period was up.

Mr Worayut later took the issue to the Krabi Provincial Court, suing Surikfat for cheating, after finding Surikfat allegedly used his land title deeds to seek another mortgage. The episode angered Mr Worayut, allegedly causing them to exchange death

threats. Surikfat has run a loan business in Krabi since he resigned as a revenue official from tambon Baan Klang in the province.

His conflict with Mr Worayut was behind his decision to kill the village headman, police say. The suspect had told police he wanted to make it appear as if Mr Worayut had

suffered a mental breakdown and shot his family out of his failure to settle his debts. He had watched suspense murder movies with similar themes designed to keep police off the track.

So far Surikfat has insisted that he alone pulled the trigger at the house in Ao Luek district, which was raided by eight suspects, including him. However, according to a police officer close to the investigation, his wife is believed to be another mastermind. Officers who questioned her said she may have set up the murder plot.

She is also believed to have told her younger brother, Phaisan Chamnong, to take the white Toyota Yaris from her husband and his gang after they used the car to escape the massacre scene, the officer said.

The car was driven by some of the suspects as they fled to Nakhon Sri Thammarat.

This contradicts Mr Phaisan’s account because he told the media that Surikfat drove the car to his house in Nakhon Sri Thammarat, asking him to exchange his pickup truck for the Toyota

Yaris as he wanted the truck to transport goods. The Yaris was later seized by police.

Investigators have detained a total of nine suspects – eight who raided Mr Worayut’s compound and one other man who owns a Toyota Fortuner also allegedly used by the suspects as they escaped, according to a police source. Among the eight suspects, who wore camouf lage outfits, was a woman who was not in Mr Worayut’s house during the murders but allegedly helped the gang by buying food and water for the attackers and the victims.

One raider, identified only as Chak, 37, is a close aide of Surikfat. He told police he had been hired by Surikfat to collect debts at Mr Worayut’s house and was asked to join him again last Monday (July 10).

He admitted he called the other victims into the house so neighbours wouldn’t notice anything amiss.

“But I never thought anything bad would happen until I heard the first gunshot,” he said.

8

THAILAND NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Cops wait for Red Bull heir’s translated letters BANGKOK

Authorities say no one should be able to combine tickets and win B180 million - but one 75-year-old man already has. Photo: via Bangkok Post

Impossible lottery win probed by GLO BANGKOK THE GOVERNMENT LOTtery Office (GLO) is set to punish dealers who supplied 30 pairs of lottery tickets with the same number to a 75-year-old man who won a record B180 million.

GLO director Maj Gen Chalongrat Nakartit said on Tuesday (July 18) that he had asked his subordinates to find the dealers who received the lottery tickets from the GLO, and traded them among themselves so one dealer was able to offer the lucky customer 30 tickets with the same number. The practice violated an agreement made with the GLO, he said.

“This is not a difficult issue

[finding the dealers]. But the investigation could take some time,” said Maj Gen Chalongrat, adding anyone found to have sold these bundles will have their contracts revoked.

“They would have no rights to receive tickets any more.”

He said that even though the sale of lottery tickets in bundles is not against the law, no dealer can have more than one pair of tickets with the same number.

In this case dealers got together to trade tickets with the same number at higher prices than allowed. The lottery winner would not be found guilty.

The B180mn is the GLO’s biggest recorded win. The biggest earlier win was B60mn.

Bangkok Post

Bangkok Post

P

olice expect to get translated documents to seek the extradition of fugitive Vorayuth Yoovidhya today (July 21) in the much-delayed proceedings against the Red Bull scion in the fatal hit-andrun case that killed a police officer five years ago, a police source says.

The strategy was revealed on Tuesday (July 18) as the statute of limitations for Vorayuth’s failure to help the victim of the crash comes close to expiring, but prosecutors have not received the documents to kick-start the process to retrieve him.

As the incident happened on Sept 3, 2012, the charge will be dropped if Vorayuth, currently living abroad, is not prosecuted before Sept 3 this year.

The one-year statute of limitations of two other charges – speeding and reckless driving, and causing damage to property – expired in September 2013.

The man who wears dollar signs on his designer cap will escape all prosecution for failure to stop and aid the victim of a crash if he can just drag out the slow police response for 47 more days. Photo: Bangkok Post Vorayuth claimed illness made him unable to meet prosecutors, causing previous delays.

The case is proceeding slowly as police need time to translate the documents, city police chief Sanit Mahathavorn said yesterday. It is not clear where police intend to send the documents in the first instance.

“If officers face inconvenience, I will speed up the process myself,” he told reporters, promising the job will be done in one or two days.

According to the police source, who asked not to be named, Thong Lor Police Station has hired a company to translate 34 pages of documents and expects the work to be ready today.

The accident took place in Thong Lor. Mr Vorayuth ran his B32-million Ferrari into the rear of a motorcycle ridden

by Thong Lor traffic police officer Wichian Klanprasert.

The Red Bull scion is facing two charges – the other is reckless driving causing death, for which the statute of limitations ends on Sept 3, 2027.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

@thephuketnews

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

10 WORLD NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Cyprus’s songbird poaching

Officials struggle to tackle operations killing millions of birds a year CYPRUS Paul Raymond & Linda Abi Assi

V

olunteers and police in Cyprus are struggling to tackle illegal songbird trapping operations that kill millions of birds a year and net huge profits for poaching gangs.

Migrating birds, snared with nets or limesticks – gluecovered wooden perches – are served secretly at restaurants on the island as a traditional dish called ambelopoulia.

Volunteer Keziah Conroy of the Bonn-based Committee Against Bird Slaughter scours scrubland near the resort of Paralimni, using a mobile phone app to locate poaching hotspots.

She climbs a tree to free a blackcap, a small grey warbler, stuck to a limestick. After it flies off she removes another 23 of the traps from nearby vegetation.

“We’re saving thousands and thousands of birds this way just by removing these traps,” she says.

In a study with Britain’s Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), it said trappers killed 2.3 million birds in autumn 2016, up from 1.4 million in 2010. Photo: AFP Trappers can catch thousands of birds a season, selling a dozen for up to $45 (B839) to restaurants which serve the dish for nearly twice the price.

It’s a tempting prospect on an island still suffering 13% unemployment after a 2012-13 debt crisis.

But campaign group Bird-

Life Cyprus calls poaching, banned under Cypriot and European Union law, an “ecological disaster”.

In a study with Britain’s Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), it said trappers killed 2.3 million birds in autumn 2016, up from 1.4mn in 2010.

Size for size, that makes Cyprus the second-most deadly bird destination in the Mediterranean, after Malta.

“Ambelopoulia” refers to the blackcap, but the dish of the same name can include several species of songbirds that are grilled, pickled or boiled.

Nets also catch dozens of inedible species as big as owls, which trappers usually throw away, says BirdLife Cyprus campaigns coordinator Tassos Shialis.

“The biggest problem is that illegal bird-trapping now has become a large-scale, illegal business,” he says.

“An organised trapper is making tens of thousands of euros every year, tax free.”

Of the 280 bird species regularly seen in Cyprus, some 200 are migrants, including everything from songbirds to waterfowl and raptors.

Millions use the island as a stopping-off point on their spring migration from Africa and the Middle East to Europe.

In autumn they return, fatter and accompanied by their offspring – a trapper’s dream.

One poaching hotspot is Cape Pyla, a once-barren group of hills on the island’s southeastern coast, a popular resting place for migrating birds.

Trappers have introduced acacia trees to attract birds seeking a safe perch for the night.

The cape lies within the Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area (SBA) where former colonial power Britain retains sovereignty, a military base and responsibility for policing.

The RSPB in March labelled the base area the “worst bird killing hotspot” in Cyprus.

Sergeant Andy Adamou of the SBA police says that during peak trapping seasons his force uses more resources to combat wildlife crime than any other British police force.

He shows a confiscated 12-metre mist net strung between poles stuck in concretefilled tyres.

Trappers play recorded birdsongs to entice birds into bushes overnight, then throw gravel at them around dawn, startling them into nearby nets.

They have even gone hightech to evade police, swapping CD players running on car batteries for hard-to-find, remotely triggered MP3 players.

A trapper with four nets can catch 75 birds a night in peak season, Adamou says.

Police have a two-hour window to catch the trappers.

It is dangerous work.

“Over the last few years I’ve had officers assaulted, had shotguns pointed at them and shots fired just before their feet to scare them off,” he says.

Trappers have rammed police cars and set pit bull terriers loose on officers.

On June 13, a police officer was injured when a grenade was reportedly thrown at the entrance of a police station on the Dhekelia base, with local sources saying the incident may have been connected with bird poaching.

“We’ve received numerous threats,” says Adamou. “We don’t take them too seriously, but when someone tells you where exactly you live, that does get you thinking.”

He says much of the problem lies with demand at restaurants serving the birds – all of them within the Republic of Cyprus and out of the SBA police’s jurisdiction.

Cyprus BirdLife says the government has not imple-

mented a 2015 plan to tackle poaching.

That year a Cypriot lawmaker even posted a picture of himself at a table with a dish of the songbirds.

Evgenios Hamboullas, a member of parliament’s environment committee at the time, posted the image on Facebook with the catchline: “Soon in our restaurants!

Happy Holidays!”

On top of the lack of political will, local police are under-resourced, Shialis says.

Sergeant Michalis Pavlides of the Cypriot police’s antipoaching unit says he and six other officers are charged with tackling trappers and restaurants across the island.

“Stopping it is difficult,” he says. “It’s a tradition. What can stop Cypriots eating ambelopoulia?”

He says bird trapping could be legalised and regulated – something many ordinary Cypriots support.

Primary school teacher Natasa Kleanthous, from the village of Farmakas, says Cypriots are aware that wild bird populations need protection, but more education is needed.

“Hunting and eating ambelopoulia is part of Cypriot tradition, but I have a problem with people who disregard sustainable principles and over hunt,” she says.

BirdLife Cyprus says the argument of tradition cannot be applied to “an industrialised, large scale and profitable business”.

Conroy agrees.

“Ultimately, birds don’t belong to Cypriots, especially ones that cross multiple borders to get to different countries,” she says.

“They don’t belong to anyone.”

AFP

Trappers play recorded birdsong to entice birds into bushes overnight, then throw gravel at them around dawn, startling them into nearby nets. Photo: Amir Makar/AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Court clears Ace Condo sales rep of fraud charge PROPERTY The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

T

he Phuket Provincial Court has dismissed a charge of public fraud filed against a defendant in the Ace Condo project case.

The case against Alisa Likitittiruks was dismissed last Friday (July 14) as the judge stated that she was only a sales representative employed by the Ace Condo property developer The Nine Property (Patong) Co Ltd and had not been seen to defraud the plaintiffs, Belgian nationals Mr Didier Giesen and Ms Nadine Rene Stephanie Lamyns.

Speaking after the ruling, Ms Alisa’s lawyer, Wasun Emruji, said, “Over the last few day things have become clearer, and I want society to know the truth. Please do not listen to only the side of the plaintiffs,” he said.

Despite the ruling, Mr Giesen and Ms Lamyns, who have been fighting the case over the course of the past

@thephuketnews

The Phuket Provincial Court dismissed a charge of public fraud against Alisa Likitittiruks as the judge ruled that she was only a sales representative employed by the Ace Condo property developer The Nine Property (Patong) Co Ltd. Photo: The Phuket News / file 10 months, were not overly disheartened. “ To d a y a t l e a s t w e achieved something as there are still two defendants [Miss Piyanuch Hansanan and The Nine Property (Patong) Co Ltd] whose cases still need to be heard,” Mr Giesen said.

“We accept that Ms Alisa’s case was dismissed because she is only an employee.

“All the evidence we hold for this case is sure to put pressure on the remaining two defendants,” he added.

Mr Giesen’s lawyer, Tanot Channim, told The Phuket News, “Mr Giesen and Ms Lamyns are pleased with today’s ruling even if that’s because the third defendant was ruled as only being a sales representative. All they

want is the money they have invested back.

“Today they are fine with this case dismissal because they believe this ruling will lead to them getting their money back from The Nine Property (Patong) Co Ltd,” Mr Tanot said.

“The next hearing is set for September 11 this year,” Mr Tanot added.

BUSINESS NEWS 11

Tesco CEO to headline Phuket Business Dinner RETAIL JOHN CHRISTIE, WHO heads Tesco Lotus operations throughout Thailand, will be the guest speaker at a special Business Dinner event in Phuket next month.

The event, organised in collaboration with the Netherlands-Thai Chamber of Commerce (NTCC) and the Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce (AustCham), is part of the British Chamber of Commerce in Thailand (BCCT) Multi-Chambers Phuket Business Dinner series.

The business dinner will be held from 6:30pm to 9pm on Aug 10 at the Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort in Cherng Talay.

Mr Christie, as CEO of EkChai Distribution System Co Ltd (Tesco Lotus), will speak on Tesco’s journey in Thailand, the changing face of the retail market, Tesco in Phuket and future plans. The presentation will be followed by a Question and Answer session.

Specifically, Mr Christie will be speaking on Tesco Lotus expanding their footprint across Thailand and how they engage with local partners.

John Christie Mr Christie has a vast experience in the retail industry, having served various top management positions around the world after joining the Tesco Group in 1982.

He has led his team of more than 60,000 people in Thailand to grow the business based on a customer-centric approach.

Tesco Lotus now serves more than 15 million customers every week from a network of over 1,800 stores across the nation as well as through online platforms.

Attendance at the event costs B975 per person. For details, visit BCCThai.com.

The Phuket News This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

12 BUSINESS NEWS

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Phuket projects shine at new property awards PROPERTY

(From left) Boon ChoonKiat, Managing Director, Chewathai Plc; Tikhamporn Plengsrisuk, Chief Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of LPN Development Plc; Ornruedi Na-Ranong, Chief Executive Officer of NYE Estate Co Ltd; and Dr Supamas Trivisvavet, President, CH Karnchang Plc.

The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

P B3.5bn senior village slated for MontAzure PROPERTY JOINT-VENTURE INVESTment company Kamala Senior Living Co Ltd has been formed and acquired a plot within the MontAzure integrated resort in Kamala with plans to create a retirement community residential project valued at B3.5 billion.

Onboard the joint-venture consortium are notable Thai groups NYE Estate Co Ltd (28.5%), LPN Development Plc (25%), and Chewathai Public Company Ltd (25%) and CH Karnchang Plc (20%), with two private shareholders attributed the remaining 1.5% of shares.

The focus of the project is on creating an international retirement community with a noted experienced operator, reported Bill Barnett, of C9Hotelworks.

“MontAzure in Kamala is rapidly developing their footprint with Twinpalms Residences, a branded Intercontinental resort, and Café del Mar are all works in progress,” Mr Barnett noted.

The project will be fully equipped with a full range of facilities and amenities and managed by a leading, international professional property management service provider, the consortium announced at a press conference last week.

The Phuket News

huket developers and residential projects shone brightly at the inaugural Dot Property Thailand Awards 2017 last week, winning Best Developer and scoring multiple awards for a slew of other projects.

Organised by online property portal Thailand Property and the Dot Property Group, the awards honoured the best projects, developers and companies that contribute to real estate in the country.

Phuket-based developer Blue Horizon was the star of the awards, collecting a total of three awards, including Best Developer Phuket. Adding to its accolades, the company’s B650 million Grand Himalai development in Kamala was bestowed two honours: Best Mixed-Use Development and Best Mid-Range Condo Development Phuket.

“We are honoured to have received this award and have worked very hard to get here.

Blue Horizon won Best Developer with its B650 million Grand Himalai development in Kamala securing Best Mixed-Use Development and Best Mid-Range Condo Development Phuket.

We feel extremely privileged to have been considered. We strive for excellence and are thrilled to know we have been recognised as the leaders in the industry,” said Blue Horizon CEO and Founder Andres Pira.

“Blue Horizon is very much the leader in the market because we combine many things so we can offer our clients the best in terms of return on investment, quality, location, branded management companies and facilities within each of our projects.

“We are visionaries and know how to set ourselves

apart from others,” he added.

Meanwhile, the upscale 21-unit Botanica Luxury Villas at Laguna, Cherng Talay, scooped Best Villa Development Phuket. The project is the vision of architect Attasit Incharooti of AAP Architecture Co Ltd. Other Phuket winners included The View at Kata Beach, which won the Best Luxury Condo Development Phuket award, while the Best Boutique Developer Phuket award was bestowed upon Kata Sea View Condotel, the firm behind Splendid Condo.

Winners were selected by Thailand Property and the regionally focused Dot Property Magazine which evaluated every candidate on several factors specifically for each individual category.

“We would like to congratulate all the winners at The Dot Property Thailand Awards 2017,” said Adam Sutcliffe, Dot Property Managing Director, Thailand.

“With international interest in Phuket real estate soaring, it is not surprising to find so many world class projects here,” he added.

Tourism revenue projected to hit B3.1trn TOURISM THE TOURISM AUTHORITY OF Thailand (TAT) forecasts revenue of B3.1 trillion in tourism revenue in 2018 by attracting tourists from second-tier Chinese and European cities and focusing on tourist quality, says TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn.

The industry has remained sluggish during the past two quarters, but the plans are expected to lay the groundwork for continued growth in 2017 and 2018, Mr Yuthasak told a TAT conference last week.

“Moving forward, the TAT will

draw focus on increasing the number of quality tourists,” he said. “We project the tourism industry will bring in B3.1 trillion in revenue in 2018 – up from B2.7trn this year.”

While the TAT’s forecasts are strong, a number of economic and political factors can lower the estimates, Mr Yuthasak told the Bangkok Post.

Starting this year, Thailand will see a decrease in average tourism growth rates.

Regional competitors are part of the issue. Vietnam and Laos, for example, are stiffening their competition with Thailand by offering discounted travel packages.

Hat Yai’s economy has been strongly hit by the decrease in Malaysian and Singaporean tourists.

“During the first six months of this year, tourism grew by only 4.3%, due to global and domestic economic slowdown in markets,” Mr Yuthasak said.

While growth has slowed down, international arrivals to Thailand are still growing. Close to 35 million people are expected to make their way to Thailand – up from 34mn in 2016, and 32.6mn in 2015, Mr Yuthasak said.

Of note, with Thailand having a population of just over 70mn people, having 35mn tourists expected to

visit Thailand in 2018 will effectively see on average one in three people in the country in those 12 months being a tourist.

Meanwhile, local tourists are expected to make 154mn trips in 2017, up from 145mn trips in 2016.

The number is projected to increase further to 162mn trips next year.

The TAT is focusing on attracting first-time visitors from second-tier cities in Europe and China.

China will remain the biggest source of arrivals this year, with 9mn visitors in 2017, or 27% of the total.

Mr Yuthasak said the government allocated a budget of B7.08 billion to

TAT Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said tourism revenue for 2018 is projected to see B2.1 trillion come from international markets, up from B1.8trn predicted for 2017.

TAT this year, an increase of 2.4% from last year’s budget.

The TAT is now in the process of fine-tuning its marketing plan to bolster tourism, he added.

Andrew J Wood

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Alan Yip on shaping your mind to master your life

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

15

Phuket Drum Circle marks its fifth birthday

17

RISING STAR

A week of incredible dining at Banyan Tree with two-star Michelin Chef Stefan Heilemann At just 35, Stefan Heilemann has already achieved two Michelin stars at his restaurant Ecco in Zurich.

The Phuket News editor1@classactmedia.co.th

W

hen he was just three years old, Stefan Heilemann’s kindergarten teacher asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up – he drew a picture of a stick figure wearing a chef’s hat.

Some 30-odd years later, Chef Stefan is a rising star on the Zurich gourmet scene, and is set to demonstrate his unique and exquisite culinary skills for diners in Phuket.

Banyan Tree Phuket will be hosting a week of gastronomical excellence, hosted by Chef Stefan. His first stop will be Banyan Tree Bangkok, where he is set to dazzle metropolitan audiences with a special degustation menu from July 29-August 1 before heading south to Phuket.

From Thursday, August 3, Banyan Tree Phuket is inviting foodies to treat their palates to an array of flavours at a distinguished master@thephuketnews

class at Tré, featuring culinary artistry from Chef Stefan as he presents a remarkable new dish for diners to enjoy every 20 minutes. Then, from August 4-8, Chef Stefan will curate a three-course set dinner daily at Tré.

“We will have an offer of three starters, three mains and three desserts, the menu is influenced from all over the world and will include a Swiss cheese dessert,” says Chef Stefan.

Chef Stefan will also serve as a guest chef at The Watercourt’s celebrated Sunday Seafood Brunch on August 6.

Stuttgart-born Heilemann spent a decade sharpening his skills at the renowned Traube Tonbach hotel in Germany’s Black Forest region, including a five-year stint in the hotel’s legendary restaurant Schwarzwaldstube – Europe’s longest-standing Three Michelin-starred restaurant.

The Ecco restaurant in the Atlantis by Giardino Hotel was awarded two Michelin stars not long after he

became head chef in December 2015.

Ecco is the restaurant concept of Michelin-starred chef Rolf Fliegauf, who worked with Chef Stefan for several years previously at the Hotel Giardino Ascona.

Chef Stefan’s dishes are a blend of classic French cuisine and modern experimental cooking. The flavours are intense and powerful.

“I was trained French classic and Rolf more avant-garde cooking, so it was the perfect symbiosis,” he says.

The Ecco concept is the framework – the finest seasonal products and the perfect blend of textures and temperatures – around which Chef Stefan creates. A fine example is his langoustine, which is served with Asian-inspired tomatoes seasoned with coriander and lime rather than classic Mediterranean flavours.

These juxtapositions create real explosions of flavour.

“My favourite style is Asian food.

I have many influences from there,” adds Chef Stefan.

Another innovative approach tak-

en by the friendly chef with the blue eyes and ash blond hair is to be a team player. You never hear a raised voice in his kitchen.

“We are a great team,” he says, “you have to have fun at work when you’re under so much stress.” And, as Chef Stefan adds, his heart “fills with joy” when one of his guests comes into the kitchen to thank him for an unforgettable evening.

Chef Stefan’s masterclass at Banyan Tree’s Tré restaurant on August 3 is priced at B2,200. From August 4-8, Chef Stefan will curate a threecourse set dinner daily at Tré, priced at B4,900 with beverage pairings or at B2,900 for food only. The Watercourt’s Sunday Seafood Brunch featuring Chef Stefan is priced at B4,400, which will include half a bottle of premium beverage; B3,800 covering free flow; or B3,200 for soft drinks. For further information or to reserve your table, please email: fb-concierge@banyantree.com or call +66 76 372 400 extension 5463.

14 HEALTH

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

The Banyan Tree Spa offers a huge range of packages which can be tailored any way you like.

Silence your busy mind The perfect balance of massage expertise, soothing sounds and pleasing scents Shela Riva reporter1@classactmedia.co.th

The therapist who looked after me seemed as though she had a genuine desire for me to be totally relaxed

F

or the most recent of my Phuket spa endeavours, I was delighted, and many of my friends envious, when one of the most renowned spas on the island, Banyan Tree Spa, offered me one of their signature treatments in exchange for a few honest words.

Upon arrival I was welcomed by Khun Pim, whose demeanour was professional yet genuine when she described to me what the treatment would involve. This small act formed my trust from the start and gave me the confidence that I would spend the next two and a half hours in skilled hands.

I am always intrigued at how spa employees seem to always maintain an ethereal, sisterly and some-

times maternal energy, as if the peace and solitude of their work permeates their characters. I suppose this is the quality which makes them great at their job. The therapist who looked after me during the treatment seemed as though she had a genuine desire for me to be totally relaxed; that selflessness and full empathy is a key factor to the psychology of a good spa dynamic.

My treatment was held in a private villa built especially for the spa, complete with emerald green detailed interior and an outdoor bathroom.

The bathroom featured a bathtub with an open-ceiling view up to the sky. I changed in this warm sunlit and open-air bathroom, it provided a good contrast to when I re-entered the massage room again, back into cool air-conditioning and a freshly made massage bed.

I took a minute to admire the décor of the room, invitingly simple, with little details, that while subtle, stood out for their pleasing elegance. The deep green that is a trademark of Banyan Tree was featured on the massage beds, towels and bowls that became, for me, a trademark of the experience. When I see this colour anywhere now, I immediately associate it with my time at Banyan Tree and feel a sense of calm.

In fact, I am thinking of filling my own bedroom with more dark green objects – it truly is a colour that invokes solitude and serenity.

The treatment itself was in excess of all that I’d expected – my petite therapist was somehow able to summon what seemed like double the force possible for someone of her size. She certainly knew what she was doing and to which muscle group – down to the second.

One thing I noticed was that my normally loud brain, which I am unable to halt for 80% of my days (including during most massages) became utterly silent. There was just nothing more satisfying I could imagine, nothing better to reminisce upon, and nothing to worry about. The music playing was performed on some sort of traditional Chinese or Tibetan percussion instruments that melodically rang out with what sounded like the very frequency of peace.

A friend, later discussing a separate topic, told me that 432 Hertz is the natural resonance of the universe and the human body. This frequency

Banyan Tree therapists are highly skilled at massage. was supposedly used in ancient China, where the emperor would order soldiers to travel to villages and tune all musical instruments to this frequency, in order to keep the peace between people. I was impressed that thousands of years later, here in 2017, at a spa on a tourist island, the technique was known and kept alive – and it was keeping the peace in my head.

When it was time for the body scrub and the facial, my mental note writing of the details had, in all honestly, been forgotten. In quite a deep state of relaxation, I simply allowed the woman to put whatever concoction was available on to my skin with no questions asked. However, I can tell you that it left my skin soft, glowing and smelling absolutely divine.

Banyan Tree Spa Phuket is open from 10am to 10pm daily (Last treatment ends at 10pm). A free transfer service is available from Mai Khao Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Surin Beach, Kamala Beach, Patong Beach and Phuket International Airport. Advance reservation is required with minimum of two persons per trip. For more information visit: banyantreespa.com. Call +66 76 372 400 (ext. 6950 / 6956) or email spa-phuket@banyantree.com for enquiries and reservations. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

As within, so without

PEOPLE 15

Master your mind for success and happiness Alan Yip

When you begin to think and feel differently on the inside, you begin to act differently and get different results on the outside.

H

ow can you have greater joy, more money, loving relationships, better health, and greater peace of mind? By improving your inner world – as any change on the outside begins with a change on the inside. For example, if you don’t like what you see when you look in the mirror, do you demand the mirror to change? No, you change what you put in front of the mirror that is reflected back at you.

When you begin to think and feel differently on the inside, you begin to act differently and get different results on the outside.

See not who you are, but who you can be What do you “see” for you today? If you want to be more confident, you must recount all your achievements – large and small – and see yourself in the winner’s circle. If you want to be more attractive, you must seek the good and see the beauty within you.

Winners see through the eyes of winners.

There is a story that, when Michelangelo was asked how he carved such beautiful angels, he replied, “I see the angel in the stone, and I chip away at everything around it.” Reprogramming your selfimage is a lot like that – less a function of trying to be more like who you wish you were and more of recognising the magnificence of who you really are.

See problems as opportunities If you see challenges as problems, they will become bigger and bigger until they and overwhelm you. In contrast, when you view problems as opportunities, your level of enthusiasm – and energy – will shoot up. You become more motivated to perform at your mental best to learn more, try harder, and bounce back.

After all, goals are just unsolved problems – and your job is to not let the problem get on top of you, but rather for you to get on top of the problem.

Plant trees of empowering emotions in your mental garden Notice the kinds of images and energy flowing into your mind and body when you think of: - Love - Appreciation - Curiosity - Determination - Gratitude - Passion - Contribution Alan Yip is a performance coach, international speaker and bestselling author.

- Compassion

@thephuketnews

- Warmth - Courage To start the flow of positive feelings, simply plant the above empowering emotions in your mental garden.

Let’s say you get cut off in the traffic, instead of letting yourself curse and swear and explode in anger, you can quickly interrupt the negative patBy focusing on your blessings you’ll have no room for hurt or want. tern by thinking about something that makes you happy or grateful, for example, your be too busy being thankful.

The interesting thing is that, when loved ones, a funny movie scene or a seyou truly show gratitude for all the rene place where you feel relaxed. blessings that you have, you will start Further, choosing one or two of the to have even more of the good things positive emotions to reflect upon and in life. If you don’t appreciate what you write in a journal will help these trees have been given, why should the Uniof empowering emotions bear fruits for verse give you more? you. Try it, please.

The attitude of gratitude Be grateful for the good in your life.

Be thankful for little things, big things, every thing. Appreciate your loved ones and the magnificent things that you might have been taking for granted.

When you start to focus on all there is to be grateful for, you’ll find there’s no room to feel lack, hurt or want. You will

Alan Yip will be giving a talk on July 30, which will expand on the ideas in this article, as part of the Inspired Phuketians series of public talks at Skye Lake Club. Tickets are B350, including one drink, canapés. Register by email at: sales@skyelakeclub.com. Alan can be reached at: alanyip@mindedge.com.sg Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

16 CULTURE

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

How to let go of your stress Why Thai Buddhists are so serene and how you can achieve inner calm ALL ABOUT BUDDHISM Jason A. Jellison mitnoy@live.com

Y

ou know ladies and gentlemen, who would have ever thought that the greatest of Buddhist insights could be found walking the halls of a retail outlet or while stuck in an epic Bangkok traffic jam?

One day, I was walking in a pharmacy with a relative as I visited family. There was a bloodpressure machine that you could use free of charge. My relative checked his blood pressure and got a shock. It was very high, despite the fact that he was already on medication for high blood pressure.

Curious, I had several friends and relatives check their blood pressure later in the trip. The result was the same: All high. They, too, were also already on highblood-pressure medication. How could this be, I pondered?

The answer comes down to one word: stress. Unlike Thailand, the American way of life is steeped in stress. It is also steeped in high cholesterol, heart attacks and strokes.

Thai Buddhists are aware that the Western way of life brings high amounts of stress. Yet, very few Westerners are aware of how it is that they we got to be so stressed out. So, in this issue of All About Buddhism, we are going to talk about the nature of stress, how it works, how it stops and Thai Buddh­ist peace.

Visitors to Thailand are often struck by how laid-back Thai people are. This is because Thai Buddh­ism teaches ways of reducing and eradicating stress.

You see, Western culture is frequently negative about life and tries to control life, rather than accept it as it is. As we start to adopt this behaviour, we do so without realising that trying to control life is one of the biggest fuels of stress that exists because, as Thai Buddhism teaches, life is not really controllable.

Simply put, the bad things that happen in life are going to happen.

These control issues cause stress and the body creates a so-called stress hormone in response (cortisol), which elevates blood pressure.

Now, if you want to do something positive – say, climbing Bangkok’s Temple of Dawn – your body will need to provide energy to accomplish all of this labour and in the process your blood pressure and heart rate will rise with the stress.

Stress hormones are also coursing through your body when you allow yourself to get excited by things that you can’t change. Traffic jams, debt, work problems and family problems are all prime examples. Trying to change other people is also a prime driver of stress.

A negative reaction to life, or trying to control that which is uncontrollable, elicits the exact same physical response as when you confront a mortal threat. It does so for a very short period of time, but if this becomes a daily or hourly event, as the decades pass, high blood pressure develops.

Traffic jams, and other petty annoyances, are an immutable fact of life – it’s how you react to them that matters.

A very good story about this happened when one of my best friends visited Bangkok. We were stuck in a traffic jam in Chinatown for over an hour. After about 15 minutes, he became very agitated.

I asked him if he was angry and anxious because of the traffic jam and, to my surprise, he said no. So, I asked why then was he so upset?

His reply was because nobody was honking their horns.

You see, he was from America, and he could not understand why Thai people would be so patient and simply wait to get to where they were going. This is a prime example of what I mean. His blood pressure and heart rate went up for no useful reason. Repeating this process every day is the ticket to high blood pressure and other problems.

We actually create most of our own stress and the cause of stress in the modern world is exactly the same as in the old world. The cause of stress is our reaction to the world, not the world itself.

Then, once the stress has been created by our own reactions, we accelerate it with negativity. We tend to say things like: Why do I have to do all of this damned work? Why me? Why is the world always screwing me?

Why does nobody appreciate what I do?

Another source of stress is not allowing mistakes.

First we try to avoid mistakes, which no human can, and then we expend massive amounts of energy hiding the mistake, or being embarrassed over it. But the stress of avoiding mistakes actually takes energy away from attention we could otherwise place elsewhere, which causes yet more mistakes, and that causes a repetitive loop. This constant stress also causes us to eventually preform at a lower level, which makes everything worse.

So, unlike Thai Buddhists, we tend to reach for the wrong solution to resolve our stress. We call it highblood-pressure medication. But these medications only treat the physical signs of stress, not the thought process in our mind that created it. So, over time, we wind up on more high-blood-pressure medication and still other medications.

But here in Thailand, you probably have noticed that these wise old monks are very calm and don’t have these problems. So, how can you, probably a nonBuddhist, use Thai Buddhist teachings to lower your stress? I will tell you.

First, unlike our Thai counterparts, we Westerners don’t let go of our stress because we’ve unwittingly grown to desire it. We actually don’t want to be rid of our stress because, like old leather, we’ve grown accustomed to how stress hormones feel and we cannot remember that there might be a better way to feel.

To break the chains of stress, you must first have a sincere desire to be rid of it and avoiding unnecessary stress is a key component of Thai culture. You also have to stop your body from craving its stress hormones, which has happened over many years.

The antidote to stress is laughter. The cure to stress is changing your attitude towards life. Don’t try to please others. Don’t allow others to control your happiness. Take a few minutes to savour the moment or, if you’ve been following All About Buddhism, maybe meditate for a while.

Ultimately, the solution to stress is reintroducing mistakes to your life and treat them as a natural part of life and enjoying them, maybe even laughing at them. Look at things positively. Turn off the 24-hour cable news and turn on something fun.

Thais like everything to be easy and fun. You can easily copy this. If it rains, go to the waterpark.

If you’re hungry, have a healthy dinner with your friends. This is the Thai approach to life and, if you do this, watch your stress disappear. thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

COMMUNITY 17

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Everyone is welcome in the circle.

Five years of feeling the rhythm Phuket Drum Circle celebrates fifth anniversary of drumming on the beach RHYTHM NATION Marco Monti

I

f you believe in magic you may find that a drum circle is like a magic carpet ride. The deep drum rhythms and unique scenery may transport you to another place and time, perhaps another dimension.

On Sunday July 30, the Phuket Drum Circle will celebrate its fifth anniversary party at Nai Harn Beach, from 4-10pm. In case of rain it will be at Yoonique Stone Bar by Nai Harn Lake.

When the power of positive rhythms envelops a community gathering, greater things happen and people start to dance,

@thephuketnews

sing and laugh. Some people also attend for the meditative and healing effects of the drumming environment.

In 2012, the Phuket Drum Circle (PDC) became the only public drum circle in Thailand with a regular schedule and website. This bimonthly event is always free and open to the public. It is an ever growing assembly of drummers, musicians, dancers and people who want to have fun on Phuket’s beaches.

Although public drum circles are rare in South East Asia most major cities around the world have one, especially cities in English speaking countries.

This is a good thing to remember when you’re travelling to a new city and would like to make new friends. Drum circles bring people together from all walks

of life and age groups. Toddlers love it.

A joke about a drum circles’ amazing diversity goes that beings from other galaxies are often in attendance as well.

However, these types of reports can neither be confirmed nor denied.

The fifth anniversary party will provide several drums and percussion instruments and some free drinks. Participants are encouraged to bring their own instruments and drinks as well. Please remember to respect our environment.

After sunset a hypnotic visuals and light show will be provided by Yogi Cyber Paint with a portable projector. Yogi is a unique visual artist from Indonesia.

As we ride the carpet of rhythm and harmony together, we step into another dimension. So make sure you mark the

Phuket Drum Circle’s fifth anniversary on July 30 on your calendar!

For updates and videos visit the Facebook page: Phuket Drum Circle. You are always welcome there. Once you arrive you may get the funny feeling you’ve been there before and loved it.

Marco Monti, M.A. is the founder of the Phuket Drum Circle and drum circle facilitator with SYNERGY EVENTS Co., Ltd. For more information visit: phuketdrumcircle.weebly.com, facebook.com/ groups/phuketdrumcircle, synergydrum. com, email: info@synergydrum.com or call 087-895-7284.

This event is proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

18 ISLAND SCENE

Guests enjoyed an amazing belly dance performance.

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Chef Daniel Isberg (centre) welcomed dozens of guests to his lastest venture.

CHEF DANIEL ISBERG’S ‘KEBAB HOUSE’ GRAND OPENING PARTY AT BOAT AVENUE Scores of Phuket foodies turned up to Boat Avenue in Cherng Talay last Friday night (July 14) to sample the Middle Eastern cuisine on offer at Chef Daniel Isberg’s latest culinary venture: Kebab House. Guests were treated to alluring belly dance performances while they dined on an assortment of delicious dips, salads, kebabs, gyros, rotisserie chicken and grilled shish kebabs. For more information check out Chef Daniel’s website at: www.chefdanielisberg.com

The delicious food was in hot demand all evening.

The Kebab House is Chef Daniel’s second restuarant in trendy Boat Avenue

From left: Class Act Media’s Matt Pond with Yodchai and Sam from Phuket FC

Young fans enjoying the action at Surakul Stadium.

ANDAMAN DRAGON DEFEATS THE GOLD ARGOSY AT SURAKUL STADIUM Phuket FC secured victory over Hat Yai FC last Saturday (July 15) to make it four in a row for Andaman Dragon with no goals conceded. (See full report on page 32.)

The finalists for Miss Grand Mom Phuket 2017.

Khao Phuket Editor Chutharat Plerin joined the PIWC ladies for a coffee this month.

PHUKET INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S CLUB ENJOY MONTHY SIP-AND-CHAT The Phuket International Women’s Club (PIWC) recently met at Starbucks in Central Festival Phuket shopping mall. The club meets monthly for a social chat and all women in Phuket are welcome to join. For more information see: piwc-phuket.com

KANNIKA CROWNED MISS GRAND MOM 2017 BY LIFESTYLE IN THAILAND The Miss Grand Mom Phuket 2017 competition, organised by Lifestyle in Thailand, was held recently with the objective of building friendships and connections between businesswomen in Phuket and nearby provinces. In the final judging of the Miss Grand Mom 2017, first place was awarded to Kannika Noosupasit and the people’s choice award went to Khun Boom from Arrow Media, contestant number five. The runner-up was Nongnapat Lerskiartanan, third place went to Thanya Jitboon and the Lifestyle in Thailand company award winner was Supranee Yimfoongfueng. All revenue raised will be donated to Paklok Nursing Home . thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

ISLAND SCENE 19

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

The competitors come from a diverse range of backgrounds.

The group enjoyed the beauty of Phuket during their recent bikini calendar shoot.

The 20 competitors will be whittled down to just one winner next month.

Staff and management of Thavorn with Miss Universe NZ CEO Jack Yan (2nd from left).

MISS UNIVERSE NEW ZEALAND FINALISTS VISIT THAVORN BEACH VILLAGE Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa in Kamala is hosting 20 hopeful finalists for Miss Universe New Zealand. The ladies have escaped the cold NZ winter and come to Phuket to model for a bikini calendar photo shoot and enjoy some relaxation before heading home to the final competition in August.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, KRABI AO NANG BEACH OPENS DOORS TO WELCOME GUESTS The new Holiday Inn Express Krabi, Ao Nang Beach opened its doors to the public and invited the media and VIPs to experience the hotel’s facilities last weekend (July 15).

Morgan Layberry, General Manager Holiday Inn Resort and Holiday Inn Express Krabi, Ao Nang Beach, welcomed guests and showcased the newest addition to Holiday Inn suite of hotels in Thailand and around the globe.

From left: Pimchapat, Jantana, Morgan, Tiya, Roh and Surawee.

Gary Player mentored young golfers from the Laguna Golf Academy.

From left: Paul Wilson, Gary Player and Laguna GM Ravi Chandran.

GOLF LEGEND GARY PLAYER MEETS LAGUNA ACADEMY JUNIOR GOLFERS On Thursday, July 6, Laguna Golf Phuket welcomed nine-time major winner and golf legend Gary Player to experience the facilities at Laguna Phuket. Mr Player enjoyed lunch at Banyan Café overlooking the 18th green and played nine holes around the award-winning Laguna Golf Phuket course. He also hosted a golf clinic for more than 20 young golfers at Laguna Golf Academy Phuket, Southeast Asia’s first PGA-branded academy. (See full story on page 31.) @thephuketnews

20 EVENTS

FRI

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

21 JUL

pudding – roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes – gravy, mushroom sauce, mint sauce. Reservation recommended 350 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

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

MON

Quiz Night - Rotary Club Patong The Rotary Club of Patong Beach cordially invites everybody to consume (responsibly) for a cause at the Aussie Pub Kamala’s trivia night. Raffles + trivia + drinks + food + raising money for charity = A) fun B) very fun C) boring ? If your answer is A or B, show up by 7:30 p.m. See www.rotarypatong. org for more information.

All you can eat BBQ night Phuket Kids Water Safety Program

Mussels night @ Shakers 1.2kg mussels served with French fries, your choice, your style: nature, marnière, Provençale, garlic & cream or Thai style. Reservations recommended 295 baht P.P., shakersphuket@gmail.com 081 891 4381.

SAT

22 JUL

Bilingual session from qualified Australian and Phuket Life Guards. Open to ages 7-15 The Kids Water Safety Program is about having fun while learning to stay safe at the beach. The education component of the program includes beach safety, sun safety, what a lifesaver is and what they do. Register Email : thailifeguard@gmail. com Tel: 081–797-4775 Venue : MontAzure Beachfront, Kamala, Phuket Please bring swimming suits, sunblock, hats, goggles, towels and smiles. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News.

SUN

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

TUE

Steak Night

23 JUL

Kids Summer Bash Kids eat free when order any entree. Face painting & Balloon making. Reservations, Hard Rock Cafe Phuket. sales1@phuket-hrc.com 076 366 381

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

Sunday Brunch It’s Sunday, Enjoy the most family friendly brunch of the island !! Wide selection of Thai & international dishes - Foam party for the kids – All sports events covered at Champions and more for the parents!

Only 499 THB! Served From 12.00 until 15.00 Booking strongly advised. Tel: (0) 76 303 300. Reservations, Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort.

THU

27 JUL

25 JUL Chalong Bay Experience by Marriott Resort Phuket Merlin

Afraid of public speaking?

Toastmasters can help!

Looking to develop your public speaking and leadership skills? Ignite your career? Join Toastmasters Phuket and start making yourself a leader today!

Meetings held the 2nd and 4th Tue of every month at Mövenpick Resort Bangtao Beach Phuket. Contact Jason on 086 479 7471 for more info. phuketprofessionals.toastmastersclubs.org

Delicious special cuts of beef are offered especially for meat lover. Reservations, HYATT REGENCY PHUKET RESORT, fnb.phuhr@hyatt.com, 076 231 234 # 5106.

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

24 JUL

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

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

WED

1,950 THB net price per person. 3 PM - 5 PM leaving at 2 PM. Including transportation, distillery tour, cocktail class and Thai pantry dinner with Chalong Bay. Reservation at 076 335 300.

26 JUL RETRO NIGHT

SURF & TURF NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY @ TWO CHEFS All you can eat! Grilled Australian rib-eye steak, teriyaki marinated chicken and grilled tiger prawns with BBQ sauce, red wine sauce and Bearnaise sauce, Caesar salad and herb-sauteed potatoes.

Only 495 baht. Two Chefs Live Band on stage from 8 pm until late. www.twochefs.com Karon 076-286479, Patong 076-344-914, Kata Beach 076-333370, Kata Center 076-330-065 COME FOR THE FOOD | STAY FOR THE FUN!

The Two Chefs band will take you back to the ’70s & ’80s with some old goodies and take requests! Every Thursday @ Two Chefs Karon – Patong – Kata Center.

Chef’s Retro Special: Flambeed Rib-eye Steak 300g Only 495 Baht. Banana Flambe - Only 95 Baht. www. twochefs.com Karon 076-286-479, Patong 076-344914, Kata Center 076-330-065 COME FOR THE FOOD | STAY FOR THE FUN!

FRI

28 JUL

Meeting - Rotary Club Patong Sunset Matinee From 5 PM onward. With Dermudos exclusive sound

by DJ Wayu & DJ Dassana. Free Entry. Reservations, XANA Beach Club, info@xanabeachclub.com, 076 358 500.

All you can eat Sunday Roast Buffet

All you can eat BBQ Ribs night

Beef, Pork & Lamb – Cauliflower, Broccoli, Peas, Carrots, fried mushrooms, grilled tomatoes – Yorkshire

6PM – 11PM: All you can eat BBQ ribs served with salad buffet, potato salad & choice of sauces.

The Rotary Club of Patong Beach cordially invites guests and prospective members to attend its regular meetings. The cost for non-members is THB 500 and includes lunch. The meeting begins at 12 p.m. at the Days Inn in Patong. Please visit www. rotarypatong.org for additional information.

thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

SAT

EVENTS 21

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

29 JUL

THU

3 AUG King of the Mountain Trail Run 2017 King of the Mountain Phuket Trail Run, one of Thanyapura’s most popular races, returns on September 3 2017. Beginner and experienced trail runners can compete in three distances: the 4-kilometre fun run, the 8 kilometres and the 15 kilometres along steep hilly terrain amid beautiful waterfalls of Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

JIMMY FAME & FRIENDS Blues Shouter Jimmy Fame will perform with the Colin Hill Band and guest artists Jeffery Sevilla and Patrick Chua at the New Roadhouse in Karon. The evening will bring together Blues, Jazz and Rock ‘n’ Roll under one roof in a benefit for HELMETS FOR KIDS charity - Rotary Club Of Patong Beach. Doors open 7:30 PM. Music from 9:00. Tickets 850 THB (includes BBQ buffet and 2 drinks) Tickets: phuketticketmaster.com Info: www.rotarypatong.org or kareneidsvik@gmail.com or Khun Bier 081-691-3285. Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Live 89.5

SUN

30 JUL

INSPIRED PHUKETIANS Mr Alan Yip - Master your mind for success and happiness Held monthly, and open to the public, this event gives an opportunity for well-lived people to share their life experiences. Inspired by the famous TED Talks, it’s a great way for people to really connect with authentic ideas that will benefit their well-being and happiness in general. All of the speakers are chosen because of their ability to share an idea that connects with and inspires people. Limited to 55 seats only and priced at B350/pax/net including one drink and pass around canapé. Register now by email to sales@skyelakeclub.com. Skye Lake Club, Cherng Talay.

2 Star Michelin Chef at Banyan Tree Phuket For a limited time in August, join us for a week of culinary delights with German born Chef Stefan of ECCO Restaurant where diners will experience the Michelin-starred cooking mastery of “Brutally Seductive” and “Dishes of the Gods” cooking. Date: 3-8 August 2017. Seats are limited. Email Food and Beverage at: fb-phuket@banyantree.com or call +66 76 372 400 ext. 5463 for more information.

THU

10 AUG

EVERY DAY The Joint Mexican Food Bar & Lounge Welcome to THE JOINT PHUKET! Floor 1: plays the latest in movies & TV shows while providing you with the only authentic Mexican food on the island. Floor 2: provides a full spectrum of music in our bar & night lounge area, bringing a bit of Patong to Chalong. Floor 3: is a rooftop, where you can smoke, mingle, and take in the beautiful sights that is Phuket. Please Follow @thejointphuket & @fallenangel510 on Instagram & Facebook for all updates, parties, events, and weekly specials as we look to unify people through food, fun, and music by providing you what you asked for! 11/64 Moo 5, Chaofah road, Chalong, Phuket, Thailand. 096 858 4848.

La Gritta’s Discovery Menu Take your taste buds on a culinary tour through some of the finest Italian flavours. Chef Patrizia has created a six-course discovery menu consisting of the appetiser, main course and dessert, priced at 1,590 THB++ per person. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. Reservations, lagritta@amari.com 076 292 697.

Phuket Business Dinner BCCT, in collaboration with NTCC and AustCham, cordially invites you to a Phuket Business Dinner on Thursday August 10, 2017 from 6.30-9.00pm. This August’s session will be led by John Christie, CEO of Ek-Chai Distribution System (TESCO LOTUS) to tell the Tesco Lotus story in expanding their footprint across Thailand and how they engage with local partners. Venue: Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort. Cost and Payment: THB 975 including inter-buffet and soft drinks. For tickets and info visit: members.bccthai.com Proundly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

SUN

3 SEP

7 Nights 7 Themed Dinners at Rim Talay Shot Lounge Bar Food Buffet New lounge bar in Rawai where you will spend hours relaxing in our lounge area in the company of classy appetizers expertly prepared by our bartenders. Or if you are a billiard fan we have many professional tables available to help you in challenges or tournaments organized by us and all immersed in a truly exclusive environment. Promotion from July 21 until August 21. Food Buffet at 200 THB from 18.30 to 20:00 (all u can eat) Beverages excluded. Francesco, Shot Lounge Bar Phuket, shotloungebarphuket@gmail. com, 061-718-8781.

Make each night unique! Enjoy our themed dinners with the cool sea breeze. World of Curries @790 THB++, Thai & International Buffet @790 THB++, Seafood Night @980 THB++, Ribs, Wings & Rings @770 THB++, Butchers Night @market price, Surf & Turf @950 THB++, Thai Seafood Gala @980 THB++. The terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. For reservations, rimtalay@amari. com or 076 340106-14 #8027.

TWO CHEFS ROCK NIGHT IS BACK! Mountain Bike Classic 2017 The Phuket Drum Circle 5th Year Anniversary!

The Phuket Drum Circle will celebrate the 5th year anniversary on Sunday, July 30 at Naiharn Beach from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This event is always free and open to the public. Participants can drum, dance, or enjoy the scenery and good vibes. Join this golden opportunity. For updates and videos visit the Facebook page: Phuket Drum Circle. This event is sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

@thephuketnews

A new mountain bike race through Khao Phra Thaeo National Park highlighting ecological tourist destinations comes to the island on September 3 2017, following the highly-popular King of the Mountain Trail Run on the same day. The Thanyapura Mountain Bike Classic features a new route through Northern Phuket’s 23 sq km rainforest. Bikers can test their endurance in four distances: the 4km fun race, the 9km, the 18-km (two loops of 9-km laps) or the 27 km (three loops of 9-km laps). Proudly sponsored by The Phuket News and Khao Phuket.

Cooking Classes Every Day Do an afternoon cooking class with Nan and discover why the Halfway Inn has been rated in the Top 10 Thai restaurants in Patong on TripAdvisor for the last 4 years running. Classes can be booked any time between 2pm till 6pm any day of the week. Google Halfway Inn, Patong’ for more details or call Nan to arrange a very fun and unique Thai culinary experience. Line:+66(0)852533278. Khun Nan, Halfway Inn Patong, halfwayinnpatong@hotmail. co.uk, 085-2533278.

Enjoy an amazing night at our Kata Center location with our very own Two Chefs Band playing the best rock hits all night long. We will be doing a very special family style sharing menu. Dig in to a whole spit roasted pig while enjoying a variety of dishes including, Caesar salad, pesto pasta salad with grilled vegetables, prawn ceviche, truffle mashed potatoes, lemon and garlic baby potatoes, roasted vegetable medley and much more! Included in the price of only 795 THB will be a tasting menu for special adult beverages. Reservations are needed, for more information please contact our staff: Email: katacenter@ twochefs.com or give us a call at 076 330 065 reservations can also be made online at Twochefs.com or Facebook.com/twochefsthailand

22 TIME OUT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Crossword by Myles Mellor & Sally York 1. Which king is usually portrayed as the “King of Clubs” on playing cards?

2. Apple icon Steve Jobs’ father was a US immigrant from which country?

3. Which type of rock is created by lava or magma?

4. What was Martin Luther King, Jr.’s original name?

5. Who played the lead role in the latest Hollywood blockbuster version of Wonder Woman?

Answers below, centre

SUDOKU

Easy

Across 1. Grate stuff 4. Light, rhythmic cadence 8. Hebrew nation 14. Good ending?

15. Aroma 16. Sadly 17. Borrower’s concern, briefly 18. Bubbly drink 19. Main course only order 20. Flag for Johnny Depp?

23. No more than a smidgen 24. Antivenins 25. Year-round Alp topper 29. Bully 34. Run circles around 36. Company’s icon 37. Birthday boy?

43. Land measure 44. A Yorkshire city 45. Weave a raised design into 48. Diamond-patterned structure, as a trellis 53. Long N.F.L. pass 55. Wall St. letters 56. Daylily variety 61. Nerve related 63. Interpretation 64. Overseer of govt.

office bldgs.

65. Slips 66. Grant basis 67. Hallow ender 68. Poker’s head honcho 69. Bounds 70. Banned insecticide’s letters Down 1. Barricade 2. Extraction tube: Var. 3. “From ___ Eternity” 4. Completely bananas 5. Fox’s “American ___” 6. Be lazy 7. Cafeteria items 8. Pay no heed to 9. ‘’We try harder,’’ e.g.

10. Fiendish plan, perhaps 11. Muslim prince (Var.) 12. Days gone by, in days gone by 13. Burning substance 21. Mouth mover 22. Overhaul 26. Playing hard-to-get 27. Third qtr. time 28. Copernicus proved him wrong

30. Sum total 31. Rank of KFC’s Sanders 32. Freudian concern 33. Use oars 35. Fictitious John 37. Hardly a slow poke 38. First NHL defenseman to score 40 goals in a season 39. Zodiac division 40. Initials of a pro basketball team 41. Govt. watchdog 42. Fla. clock setting 46. Wear away through erosion 47. One buck 49. Popular sushi fish 50. Projected on a screen 51. Perfumed, as a chancel 52. Still around 54. Pickling liquid 56. Mountain range between France and Switzerland 57. Kind of testimony 58. Fall locale 59. Feat 60. Moves restlessly 61. ‘The Simpsons’ neighbor Flanders 62. Formerly

Solutions to last week’s puzzles:

Answers to this week’s Pop Quiz: 1) 1) Alexander the Great; 2) Syria; 3) Igneous; 4) Michael Luther King, Jr.; 5) Gal Gadot

GOT YOUR NUMBER

ISLAND VIEW

This week in history July 21, 356 BC The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is destroyed by arson.

1

July 22, 2011 Norway is the victim of twin terror attacks by far-right extremists: a bomb blast targeting government buildings in central Oslo; and a massacre at a youth camp on the island of Utøya.

Combined, the attacks left 77 dead, with 69 killed on the island, 33 of whom were under the age of 18.

year is how long it roughly takes for 98% of the atoms in your body to be replaced.

3

kisses a day can speed up and strengthen your metabolism.

July 23, 1903 The Ford Motor Company sells its first car.

8.2

July 24, 1567 Mary, Queen of Scots, is forced to abdicate and replaced by her 1-yearold son James VI.

seconds of eye contact must be held for that “Love at first sight” feeling to occur, according to some studies.

64

per cent of men say they spend more money on dating during the summer than any other season, according to one survey.

38.7 million litres of fuel is saved by UPS delivery trucks every year by making no left turns.

Source: Uberfacts

July 25, 1965 Bob Dylan goes electric at the Newport Folk Festival, signaling a major change in folk and rock music.

Nai Harn Beach. Photo by Shaun Fitzgerald Got an unusual or particularly beautiful picture of Phuket?

Email it to execeditor@classactmedia.co.th

July 26, 1951 Walt Disney’s 13th animated film, Alice in Wonderland, premieres in London, England, United Kingdom.

July 27, 1890 Vincent van Gogh shoots himself and dies two days later..

Source: Wikipedia thephuketnews

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Jobs

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Trades & Services

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MOVING SERVICES

MARINE SERVICES

STORAGE Reserve Your Storage Space

Call 076 29 29 09

or visit mystorageasia.com

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

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

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Buy & Sell

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

JOBS MASSEUR WITH ENGLISH QUALS

Experienced masseur with qualification work/live in Australia. Must pass IELTS English Test for Australia. Interview Patong 20-25July 50-70,000 THB month, George Rimbas, 2 Hospital Avenue Manjimup Western Australia, mysticgeobird@amnet.net.au, +61468326011.

BOATS, YACHTS FOR SALE 20m berth at Royal Phuket Marina

Private owner offers 20m, front line, E dock berth for rent or sale at the Royal Phuket Marina. Berth will accommodate yachts of up to 20m L.O.A. and significant discounts are available for a long term agreement. Contact for further information. james@ shayler.co

For Sale: 1-, 2,- 3-engine speedboats

3-engine speedboat: Length 13.5m; Width 3.4 m; Capacity 45 passengers + 3 crew. Front seats. 2-engine speedboat: Length 11.6 m; Width 2.83 m; Capacity 32 passengers + 3 crew. Front seats. 1-engine speedboat: Length 8.1m; Width 2.40 m; Capacity 15 passengers + 3 crew. All boats are in good condition. Prices start at 600,000 THB. Vladimir, sales@ joydive.asia, 084 182 8685.

Long Tail Boat For Sale

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

CAR FOR SALE Convertible

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

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

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

Steel boat for sale

32 metre steel boat for sale.

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

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

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

CAR FOR SALE 2006 Toyota Fortuner 2.7VVT

Excellent condition Expat selling 4 X 4, automatic, petrol 138K KM Full service from Toyota New Michelin tires New Front and Rear Brakes 490,000, Boat Lagoon Marina, 083-638-3233. @thephuketnews

Mercedes CLK 200 Cabriolet W-209 Brabus Package - seat 4.

Excellent condition and fun to drive.

37,400km. 1,199,000 Bht. Eng - Thai 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

Car for sale

BMW X5, Gasoline, Year 2003, 195,000 km. Full options. 499,000 Baht only. First to see will buy. Owner: 093 584 1213.

2014 Nissan Juke For Sale

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

Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8G VVTI

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

U

t sa

le

Honda Jazz 2009 1500cc Auto

57,000km. One owner since new.

Regularly 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

CUSTOMER SERVICE Sales Support Agent - 50K+ THB per month

Sales Support Agent required in Phuket to join FazWaz Real Estate’s Kamala branch. This role is helping our nationwide real estate business deal with property buyers in both Thai and English who are looking at purchasing a new property across all of the six major locations we cover in Thailand.

You should have great writing and speaking skills and some experience in customer service or sales. Any other languages are a massive benefit but must be fluent in both English and Thai. Aphida, 73/142-143 Moo 3 Tambon Kamala, Amphur Kathu, Phuket. aphida@fazwaz.com, 098 742 6687.

FINANCIAL, LEGAL Bangkok law firm in Phuket

The Bangkok law firm PUGNATORIUS Ltd. provides its foreignerfocussed legal support and assistance through a trusted partner law firm in Phuket. For a protected corporate structure in full compliance with the law. For a comprehensive due diligence which truly lives up to its name. For a most efficient hotel business licensing process.

For a more competitive design of the property development. The PUGNATORIUS advantage is badly needed at a place where foreign investments are typically built on sand. Protect your investment in paradise.phuket@pugnatorius.com, (00) +66 22 072 647

GARDEN, PATIO ITEMS Tiya’s Hammocks & Swing seats

Native Habitat Phuket - Tiya’s Hammocks’ shop opposite Tesco Lotus Extra Kathu - Samkong, Phuket Town near Fascino Pharmacy. Provides handmade luxury and colorful hammocks and swing seats. Perfect for a gift, souvenir for your own home, or for your guests at villas, resorts and beach clubs. Open Tue-Sun, 10am-7pm. Mention this advertisement to get an extra 5% discount on top of our standard discount table. hammockphuket@yahoo.com 089 600 0041.

HOME IMPROVEMENT TechWorX Projects

TechWorX Projects now offer a full Electrical Contractor service. This complements our existing offerings of AV, IT, Home Automation, Home Cinema and Security systems. If you are planning a new build or renovation please contact us for a free consultation. Daragh, 393/8 moo 1 Srisoonthorn road, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket 83110, daragh@techworx.asia, 0844439863.

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FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

The Phuket News @thephuketnews

MEMBERSHIPS Life Time Family Membership

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

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

Tanita, 094 695 3536 / 063 992 3226.

Loch Palm Golf Membership

Lifetime Loch Palm Golf membership for sale. 400,000 baht, the Loch Palm transfer fee of 72,000 baht will be shared equally between the buyer and seller. sales@ joydive.asia

Phuket Country Club Golf Membership

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

MOVING SERVICES Looking for a Moving Company?

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

PERSONAL SERVICES Rawai Custom Tailor store

Rawai Tailor – Ladies and Gents custom Tailor Store. Serving local and international clients for the past 10 years, get a free shirt for each suit ordered, fully air conditioned, clean environment, friendly staff, parking space, quality materials, good workmanship and money back guarantee. Located within walking distance from major hotels in Rawai, opposite Sea Shell Museum on Viset road in Rawai. Visit us for free consultation, no obligation to buy. www.RawaiTailor.com Thomas Ghimiray, 158/2, Moo 2, Viset Road, Rawai, Phuket. info@ RawaiTailor.com, +6681-415-4883.

PUBLIC NOTICES Relocation of Major Office

Phuket Plus Co.,Ltd, Corporate Registration Number 0105549008784 has relocated its head office, originally located at 580/123, Moo 2, Saimai Sub-district, Saimai District, Bangkok, Thailand. The company’s head office is now located at 45/11, Moo 4, Kamala Sub-district, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand. This announcement is on behalf of Mr Manusanan of Phuket Plus Co., Ltd. 45/11 Moo 4 Kamala, Kathu, Phuket 83120. Contact: rattana65992@ gmail.com, 076-525-848, 076-525-715

REAL ESTATE SERVICES Chatta Real Estate

Chatta Real Estate Management and Investment. Specialists in rental property management and guaranteed rental.

Inquire Now! Chanapa, Chatta Real Estate Management and Investment, info@chattha.asia, 076 636 244, 090 179 6635

PROPERTY FOR SALE 4 bedroom house in Chalong

4 king bedrooms (one with ensuite, the others with dedicated bathrooms), 5 bathrooms (1 with a bath, the other showers), Living room, Morning room (lounge/diner), 2 studies, Home cinema, 7 seater, DVD/CD library, 2 carports, 3 separate entrances (+ 5 French windows, a total of 8 exits). Property is at the end of a quiet soi near Big Buddha, no passing traffic. It overlooks a stream and jungle. The garden is 12 years old with bananas, papayas, mulberry bushes, cherry bushes, flowering plants and shrubs and several palm trees. There are frequent bird visitors…2 birdbaths. Just a few minutes drive from Tesco and Villa/Home Pro on Chao Fa West. Only 12 min drive to Central or big Tesco/Big C/Makro. 16.9MB (negotiable). Area of the site: 137.9 square wah (approx 560 square metres). To view, call 081 415 5522 or email m.allen.phuket@gmail.com

COMMUNITY

PROPERTY FOR RENT Rawai Naiharn with spa pool

Unique Thai style home, open plan, close to beach and shops, AC, 3-bedroom 2-bathroom with spa pool, must see! Eng: 090 867 4849 Thai: 081 081 9875.

To rent: 1800 m2

To rent: 1800 m2 of concrete slab with 5m high walls + 500 m2 of parking. Heroines Monument area. Roofing may be arranged, long term and serious interest only. Open to ideas, Leo: 081 821 4064.

Long term luxury Villa

Luxury 2 bed villa available for long term rental 10 minutes from Patong with outstanding sea views from B95,000 per month. We have other villas available for shorter rentals. Contact Justin 084 242 6952 (Eng) or Tan 094 596 2558 (Thai).

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 thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

SPORT 29

Hamilton swings title fight After street demo no-show backlash, Lewis proves his point on track BOX OF NEUTRALS Michael Lamonato michael@boxofneutrals.com

L

ewis Hamilton is no stranger to controversy, but putting his own fans offside ahead of his home grand prix risked opening a dramatic new chapter in the 32-year-old’s history.

The Briton’s no-show at a Formula One-organised London street demonstration – the only driver absent of the sport’s 20-driver grid – was met with raised eyebrows among his peers and boos and jeers from the ordinarily adoring British crowd.

The backlash was fierce, but when called before the infamously aggressive English press to answer for his absence, Hamilton stayed cool.

“It’s been a pretty intense season so far, and I felt for me I needed to prepare the best way that I could this weekend,” he said. “The season’s the most important thing for me.”

Hamilton, after all, knew what the British crowd re-

@thephuketnews

Lewis Hamilton drives ahead of Ferrari’s Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen during the British Formula One Grand Prix at the Silverstone last Sunday (July 16). Photo: Andrej Isakovic/AFP ally wanted to see – a British driver win the British Grand Prix – and by the time the race had come and gone none could doubt his commitment to the cause.

Pole position by half a second, victory by more than 14 seconds and the fastest lap of the race – Hamilton may have missed the London demonstra-

tion, but he turned Silverstone into his own personal festival.

“The energy that I get from the fans, there is no other driver that gets this sort of energy anywhere,” Hamilton said reflecting on his weekend.

“I really do think it boosts you, just lifts you up.”

Hamilton emerged from the weekend having equalled icon-

ic British driver Jim Clark’s record of five wins and five poles in England, but his victory is as meaningful for 2017 as it is for the history books.

While he serenely paraded his way through 51 laps of the British Grand Prix, chief title rival Sebastian Vettel fumbled his way through the race, first getting caught behind Max

Verstappen’s slower Red Bull Racing car at the start, then suffering an extraordinary tyre collapse on the penultimate lap.

The contrasting fortunes of F1’s protagonists slashed Vettel’s 20-point championship lead and turned the title into a single-point competition at the season’s halfway point.

Mercedes’s dominant victory is the latest sign of a performance trend towards the reigning three-time constructors champion and away from the resurgent Ferrari, which is mounting its first serious title campaign in years.

The German marque has taken three wins in the last four – a record that would have been perfect had Hamilton’s headrest not come unfastened at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix – and has grown its qualifying advantage substantially since its off-colour Monaco Grand Prix showing in May. “This year we have been for the majority of the year a match,” Vettel said. “It has been probably true that in the last couple of races Mercedes have been stronger, but the real game changer is qualifying.

“They are able to turn up the engine – they are gaining 0.6secs on the straights. If you have the cars in front for the first lap, the race looks different.

“There is no reason to panic or to worry, but for sure we need to be aware. There are a couple of advantages we need to work on and then it could be a different picture.”

The next grand prix in Hungary on paper suits Ferrari better than Silverstone, the Hungaroring’s tight and slow corners swinging the pendulum back towards the Scuderia as it did in Monte Carlo.

But just as his dominance at Silverstone is becoming integral to Lewis Hamilton’s legacy, his five victories in Budapest mark it too as a stronghold of Briton, making the Hungarian Grand Prix (30 July) a decisive final race before Formula One’s monthlong midseason break.

Don’t forget to tune in to Live89.5 each and every Saturday rom 9am to hear the Box of Neutrals radio show.

30 SPORT

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Rajevac hails War Elephants Coach says new-found defensive excellence won team cup FOOTBALL

Thailand players and officials celebrate winning the King’s Cup at Rajamangala National Stadium last Sunday (July 16). Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill

Bangkok Post

A

s Thailand lifted the prestigious King’s Cup trophy for the 15th time last Sunday night (July 16), a beaming Milovan Rajevac attributed the War Elephants’ success to their new-found defensive excellence and “a bit of luck”.

The final at Rajamangala National Stadium ended in a goalless draw in 90 minutes, and the Thais kept their cool to edge Belarus 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out to retain the King’s Cup. Earlier, Burkina Faso claimed third place after beating North Korea 4-3 on penalties after a 3-3 draw at full-time.

Under the tournament regulations, a penalty shootout is called if a game ended in a draw after 90 minutes.

Teerathep Winothai, Philip Roller, Theerathon Bunmathan, Thittiphan Puanjan and Siroch Chatthong converted from the spot for Thailand, while defender Peerapat No-

techaiya was the home team’s only player to send his shot over the bar.

While some have hailed Siroch for staying calm and converting his “first-ever penalty kick”, the real hero of the night for the War Elephants was goalkeeper Kawin Thamsatchanan.

After warding off a number of attacks during regulation time, captain Kawin spectacularly denied Belarus’ Yaueni

Klapotski and Artslom Skitau in the shoot-out to tip the balance in Thailand’s favour.

The four scorers for Belarus were Pavel Savitski, Artsem Salavei, Yauheni Shauchenka and Zakhar Volkau.

Rajevac, who took over as Thailand’s coach in May, said, “We have won the trophy and it is good to see so many smiling faces around.

“We only had a day’s rest in between the matches and

the players were tired after their 3-0 win over the North Koreans in the first match [last Friday].

“The most pleasing thing about this tournament is that we did not concede a goal in open play in our two games.

I believe this is a new thing for Thai football.

“Now that our defence is strong enough, I will focus on improving the team’s offence.

“Belarus played well today

but it was a close contest. We had a bit of luck in winning the match in the penalty shoot-out.

“We knew a penalty shootout was a big possibility, so we had practised spot kicks before the match.”

Football Association of Thailand president Pol Gen Somyot Poompu n muang said after the match, “I congratulate the Thai people together with the players and the coaching staff on winning

the title again.

“Today we beat Belarus and I hope that we will be able to maintain our high standards in our future assignments as well.”

Striker Teerathep, who is on a comeback trail at 32, said, “We have done our duty to the country. This event belongs to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and I believe he watched us from heaven tonight and smiled at us.

“Playing for the national team has made me feel like a 14-year-old again. I am still fresh and happy to play for the national team, but it all depends on the coach.”

Siroch, meanwhile, refused to take credit for the victory, saying it was “a great team effort”.

He scored both goals in Thailand’s home leg of the 2016 Suzuki Cup final in December to help them retain the title.

However, he has been without a goal in all competitions since. Goals scored in penalty shoot-outs are not added to a player’s personal tally.

Indigenous Mexicans beat pros ULTRAMARATHON I N OLD I N DIGE NOUS Latin American cultures, women toil at farming and tackle family duties. Atop this remote Mexican mountain, they also slap on sandals and crush pro athletes on longdistance runs.

Talk about extreme sports: the Raramuri people – part of the Aztec family – over five centuries ago fled up the mountains of Chihuahua state to stay safe from Spanish invaders. There they stayed.

Over the years they have become cliff-dwellers, often sleeping in caves.

But they also are moving their animals along constantly – and as part of their nomadic lifestyle learned to master truly extreme long-distance runs.

This year’s Canyons Ultramarathon brought together more than 1,000 competitors from around the world – Russia, Canada, the United States, Ecuador and Spain – to take on the steep slopes of the Sinforosa range of the Tarahumara mountains in the Sierra Madre Occidental.

With the wail of “Weringa!” which means “Onward” in their language, runners were

A Raramuri indigenous woman take part in the ‘Ultramaraton de los Canones 2017’. Photo: AFP off. They battled it out in the men’s and women’s 63-kilometre and 100km contests from last Friday (July 14) through Sunday (July 16).

The results: all four races swept by Raramuri (which means “light of feet”) talent.

The course was not some manicured grass pitch; the trail – which follows mountain ridges – is clotted with mud, rocks and even takes runners over a traditional woven suspension bridge.

While some competitors were decked out in high-tech gear to absorb sweat or avoid friction, local champions stuck mostly to their traditional gear.

It famously includes sandals hand-carved out of old car tires and their centuries-old handwoven shirts, petticoats

and scarves, for women, and a slightly lighter outfit for their men.

“We really don’t have to do a lot to train. Because since we don’t have cars, we walk or run everywhere,” said Miguel Lara, 27, who won the 100km sprint in nine hours and 46 minutes.

His record is eight hours and 47 minutes.

The locals are attached to tradition, but clearly are not afraid of innovation.

At some point in the past, obviously, someone shifted from sandals made of natural materials for running, to recycled tire tread sandals with a light strap.

Perhaps Lara’s shoe sponsorship contract could go to Michelin.

AFP thephuketnews

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

SPORT 31

Thor thunders to first

Henry Kaye’s cat secures overall victory at Multihull Regatta YACHTING The Phuket News editor@classactmedia.co.th

S

trong winds and gusts along with repairs and ongoing difficulties prevailed in the third and final day of the Multihull Solutions Regatta last Sunday (July 16) and although most racers were content to settle for one race and the toil of the gruelling 20

knots of wind, several members of Multihull Racing and the three in Multihull Cruising opted in for a second race.

And so the cats were on the hunt for victory, and some obtained their prey.

Race one in the Racing Multihull class last Sunday saw Henry Kaye’s Thor lead the pack and eventually secured overall victory in the class, while Asia Catamarans Hurricane with Alan Carwar-

dine and crew claimed second place overall and Peter Wood’s Top Cat, third.

Although after the first race in the class most racers were willing to “pounce” home and enjoy some beverages and leisure time, three boats in Multihull Racing responded to the call by Principal Race Officer Simon James for a second race to vie for lower podiums places.

Despite a cat fight with

Henry Kaye’s ‘Thor’ flies a hull on their way to overall victory in the Racing Multihull Class at the Multihull Solutions Regatta 2017.

Photo: PYC Official Photographer Scott Murray / SEA Yachting

Java tearing her jib and performing impressively on the downward legs of spinnaker runs in the two-leg course, Top Cat took up the challenge and placed third, with Java and Phantom V finishing fourth and fifth overall, respectively.

Five races for the Fireflys saw John Newnhams’s Twin Sharks finish on top with Voodoo skippered by Ian Coulson and Mil Grace (aka “The Frog”) placing second and third, respectively.

Five races were also enough for the Corsair Pulse 600 class. Although Andrew DeBruin’s Multihull Solutions H30 took top spot in last Sunday's Race 5, it wasn’t enough to overtake Paul Baker and John Priestly’s Pulse Yellow to win the class in the regatta.

Cruising Multihull class enjoyed the strong winds, by all appearances. Eager to compete with the conditions,

the class competed in five races throughout the regatta.

In the first race last Sunday, Robert Hossack’s Rapter placed first, with Rick Fielding’s Mojo second and Mike Spurle’s Proud Cat third.

The second race last Sunday saw Mojo first, Rapter second and Proud Cat third, with the three topping the podium overall in the class in that order.

“Regattas are rough and tough with preparations on boats being costly and time consuming. Often it is the windiest regattas that bring the most smiles to the faces despite damages incurred.

Congratulations and thanks to all 21 the boats and people who have contributed to the sailing efforts – for being here,” regatta organisers noted in their final race report.

“Others who have made this long-running regatta

a success are the sponsors.

Multihull Solutions has been the title sponsor for many years now having steered the event into the most prominent multihull regatta in Southeast Asia.”

Thanks also went to Race Day Sponsors East Marine, Octopus Electrical Service and Sail Escapes along with Supporting Sponsors Corsair Marine International, Java Yachting and Sovereign BBQs & Grills. Media Supporters thanked were Australian Multihull World and SEA Yachting.

“Last but not least are the people running the courses along with the mornings and evening’s happenings – PRO Simon James and the volunteers on the committee boat, start and pin boats plus Kim and Pia and crew running the restaurant at Phuket Yacht Club,” the report added.

Golfing legend Gary Player meets junior golfers Phuket prepares for GOLF

LAGU NA G OLF PH U K ET R Ecently welcomed nine-time major winner and golf legend Gary Player, as he took time during a personal trip to experience the world-class facilities at Laguna Phuket.

During his visit, Mr Player played nine holes around the award-winning Laguna

Gary Player sharing his golfing tips with the keen junior golf enthusiasts at Laguna Golf Academy Phuket.

Golf Phuket. He also hosted a golf clinic for more than 20 young golfers at the Laguna Golf Academy Phuket, Southeast Asia’s first PGA-branded academy.

The juniors were excited to meet and practise the golfing tips passed on

by Mr Player.

Mr Paul Wilson, Laguna Golf Assistant Vice President/Group Golf Director enthused, “Laguna Golf, part of the Banyan Tree Group, is honoured to welcome Mr Gary Player to Laguna Golf Phuket.

“With Mr Player’s personal achievements and unbelievable passion, our young golfers have been very fortunate to receive over 90-minutes of teaching from him. A testament to the Group’s ethos of Empowering People through developing aspiring junior golfers, we sincerely appreciate Mr Player’s making time to visit us and coach the young golfers of Phuket amidst his busy schedule.”

Live Sports TV Schedule *Times may be subject to change

SPORT START STOP Friday July 21

Rugby Union 16:30 Rugby League 11:00 Golf 12:30 Aussie Rules 16:30 Cycling 19:30 Saturday July 22 Rugby Union 14:30 19:30 22:00 Rugby League 12:00 Golf 16:00 Cycling 18:00 Aussie Rules 10:00 Aussie Rules 10:30 13:30 16:30 Sunday July 23 Aussie Rules 10:00 13:30 Rugby League 11:00 13:00 Cycling 18:00 Golf 15:00 Motor Bikes 18:00 21:00

EVENT

TEAMS / INFO

18:30 13:00 02:00 19:30 23:00

Super Rugby – QF2 Rugby League The Open (146th ) AFL Tour de France – St 19

Brumbies v. Hurricanes Sharks v. Rabbitohs Royal Birkdale, Day 2 Adelaide Crows v. Geelong Cats Embrun – Salon-de-Provence, 222.5 km

16:30 21:30 23:55 14:00 02:00 23:00 13:00 13:30 16:30 19:30

Super Rugby – QF4 Super Rugby – QF1 Super Rugby – QF3 NRL The Open (146th ) Tour de France- St 20 AFL AFL AFL AFL

Crusaders v. Highlanders Lions v. Sharks Stormers v. Chiefs Panthers v. Titans Royal Birkdale, Day 3 Marseille – Time Trial, 22.5 km Sydney Swans v. St Kilda Essendon v. North Melbourne Western Bulldogs v. Gold Coast SUNS Fremantle v. Hawthorn

13:00 AFL 16:30 AFL 13:00 NRL 15:00 NRL 23:00 Tour de France – St 21 01:00 The Open (146th ) 20:00 Motocross – Czech Rep 23:00 Motocross – Czech Rep

@thephuketnews

Richmond v. GWS Giants Brisbane Lions v. Carlton Dragons v. Sea Eagles Tigers v. Eels Montgeron – Champs-Elysees, 103 km Royal Birkdale, Day 4 Race 1, Loket Race 2, Loket

Gary Player is regarded as the most successful global golfer of all time, having won 165 professional events, designed over 300 golf courses and raised over $62 million (B22 billion) for his charity foundation to-date.

Recently named “Best Golf Resort International – Asia” by 2017 Golf Digest Editors’ Choice Award, Laguna Golf Phuket is seeing an increasing number of PGA / LPGA players, top amateurs as well as celebrities enjoying the facility due to its strategic course design, worldclass playing surfaces, PGA-branded golf academy with premium practice facilities and Asian-inspired hospitality, situated in Asia’s most dynamic integrated resort setting.

For more information, visit www.lagunagolf.com/phuket or contact +66 (0) 7632 4350 / golf@lagunaphuket.com.

HASH HOUSE HARRIERS Run #1642: Saturday July 22 Run Start Time: 4PM Hares: Not Cleaver, J.C., Pole Position Location: Kathu - In front of J.C. house Directions: Coming from Patong, turn right into the soi beside the Family Mart at the bottom of hill on the Kathu side, just before the divided roadway begins. Wind in about 500 metres and reaching the T-junction, turn right. Continue 300m and turn left at the abandoned elephant camp on your right.

Coming from Chalong head toward Patong. Beyond the Kathu Go-Kart track make a left at the end of the divided roadway onto the soi beside the Family Mart and continue as above.

Bus pick-up: Kamala @ Black Cat’s Bar: 2:45pm Patong @ Expat Hotel: 3:15pm More info: phuket-hhh.com

‘Phuketron 2017’ MARATHON THE SPORTS AUTHORity of Thailand Phuket office have come together with related government agencies to organise the “Phuketron 2017” marathon event.

Set to take place over December 8-10, 2017, the inaugural Phuketron will feature a marathon which will take runners from Saphan Hin Park, through Phuket Old Town, past Chalong Temple and finish at Promthep Cape. .

Details of the Phuketron 2017 were announced at a press conference held with various government agencies on July 11 to ensure preparedness for local traffic management and

An official speaks at the press conference to announce the ‘Phuketron 2017’. Photo: PR Dept security for tourists and runners participating in the event.

Mr Wirat Patee, Director of Sports Authority of Thailand Phuket office said that Phuketron 2017 was being held to the island’s tourist industry and attractions.

Sport

THEPHUKETNEWS.COM

editor3@classactmedia.co.th

FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2017

Henry Kaye’s ‘Thor’ takes honours at MSR 2017 > p31

FOUR IN A ROW Early goal enough to seal Phuket victory over Hat Yai Porbracha Rodnakared (25) scored the game’s only goal in the opening minute of play.

Photo: Puvadon Kosol Klabpadung

FOOTBALL Matt Pond editor3@classactmedia.co.th

A

single goal in the first minute of play was enough to seal Phuket FC victory over Hat Yai FC last Saturday. That makes it four in a row for Phuket FC with no goals conceded.

The goal, which happened so soon after the start of play that Phuket FC’s cameraman

Team

only managed to capture the celebrations, was scored by Porbracha Rodnakared (25) bringing his goal tally for the season thus far to three.

Going into last Saturday’s (July 15) game, the 14th of the season, Phuket sat at joint 2nd in the Euro Cake Thai League 4 league table equal on points with Pattani FC (24), with both six points adrift of league leaders Satun United (30).

But with both Phuket and Pattani picking up wins last

P

W

D

L

GD Pts

1

Satun United

14

9

3

2

13

30

2

Phuket FC

14

8

3

3

11

27

3

Pattani FC

14

8

3

3

8

27

4

Chumphon FC

14

6

5

3

4

23

5

Phatthalung FC

14

5

6

3

2

21

6

Hat Yai FC

15

4

5

6

-3

17

7

Yala United

14

4

3

7

-6

15

8

Surat Thani City

15

2

2

11

-16

8

9

Sungaipadee FC

14

1

4

9

-13

7

Date

Time

Match

Home/Away

Sun July 23

6pm

Phuket FC vs Phatthalung FC

Home

Sat July 29

6pm

Phuket FC vs Sungaipadee FC

Home

Wed Aug 2

6pm

Phuket FC vs Yala United

Home

Please note that Phuket FC's home game fixtures are all 6pm kick-offs unless otherwise stated.

weekend, Pattani beating Chumphon 1-0, they still remain at joint 2nd but now just three points off the top spot.

Despite Phuket securing the win early it was a solid performance from the team, they put constant pressure on Hat Yai and were unlucky not to further their lead.

In addition, outstanding performances from Hamed de Silci Diarrassouba (36), Taewarit Junsom (26) and Samuel Ngouafack (6) in Phuket’s defensive line was was enough to hold off a number of attacks from Hat Yai. Hamed, although picking up another of his customary yellow cards, was in particular a stand-out player on the day completely controlling the defensive play with nobody, despite repeated attempts, getting past the big Ivorian.

But the Andaman Dragon’s win over Hat Yai last Saturday not only leaves them in a very comfortable position as they near the end of the second leg of the season, it also means that they now have six of the six decided games to play in the third leg of action settled as home games.

In this third leg; each team gets to play all the other teams one more time, with the team victorious on aggregate over the previous two encounters

getting the home ground advantage for the third round match against that same team.

For example, Phuket FC played Sungaipadee FC away from home in the opening game of the season and won 0-5. In Phuket’s home leg the game finished goalless (0-0).

On aggregate, Phuket FC over the two matches defeated Sungaipadee 5-0, therefore Phuket FC get a third game against Sungaipadee at home, and so forth.

If the head-to-head results are tied, as was the case against Hat Yai, the team to play at home will be decided by the away goal ruling. If the head-to-head is still tied then a penalty shoot-out will be played at the end of the second fixture to decide on the team that will play at home.

With two games still remaining before Phuket finish the full second leg of the league they are currently set to play six of the eight thirdround games at home; against Sungaipadee FC, Yala United, Pattani FC, Chumphon FC, Satun United and Hat Yai FC. The remaining two games yet to decide the third-round fixtures Surat Thani City FC which was to be played on the day The Phuket News went to print (July 19) (Phuket currently ahead 3-1 on aggregate),

and Phatthalung FC on July 23 (currently equal sits 1-1 on aggregate).

Fixture dates already set for the third round so far are Phuket FC versus Sungaipadee FC at 6pm on July 29, and Phuket FC versus Yala United at 6pm on August 2.

The Phuket News will update on remaining fixtures once they are announced.

Speaking to media following last Saturday’s game, Phuket FC Head Coach Niwat “Noi” Nui-sa-nga praised his players for their unity in the game and that it was great to follow last week’s win over league leaders Satun United with another win.

“First of all, I have to praise my players who helped each other until we won this match. The important thing is that we have now won for four consecutive games.

“In addition, the away team was well prepared for this match and made it difficult for us throughout the game. But our players were engrossed in victory and wanted to make our fans happy for this match; thus, my players and I want to give the three points from this victory to our fans for cheering us,” Coach Noi said.

Meanwile, Phuket FC President and Director of the Raya group of hotels, Mr Pit-

ipon Nukulpanitwipat, added, “Now our team, Phuket FC, is in second position in the table and we are quite pleased with this; however, we still hope to climb up to first position.

“Our team is improving continuously and we are trying to train local or southern teenagers to be successful players.

“In the third leg matches we have an opportunity to be the home team for most of the games and we believe that we can get three points in every home match which will lead us to promotion to third division,” he said.

“We welcome everybody aged U13, U15, U17 and U19 to train under our academy and please don’t forget to cheer us in the next matches,” he added.

Phuket FC played away from home in the penultimate game of the second leg of the season on Wednesday (July 19) against second from bottom Surat Thani City FC who Phuket FC beat 3-1 in the home leg.

The team are set to play the final game of the second leg on Sunday (July 23) against Phatthalung FC with kick-off set for 6pm.

The third leg then gets underway against Sungaipadee FC on July 29. (See image for full fixtures.) thephuketnews