Steinkjen Golf Klubb from Norway, were recent visitors to Cha-Am playing during a short stay on a variety of local courses, but also issuing a challenge to the resident golfers of Cha-Am. Although mostly Members of the ChaAm Golf Club, the ‘Thailand’ team was a motley group of mixed nationality golfers with expats from England, Northern Ireland, Australia and also Norway taking up the challenge. The agreed format was 18 holes of stroke play with the winners determined by the lowest average Net score of the team Members. The visitors nominated Sea Pine (Suanson) as their course of choice.
This was perhaps an attempt to negate the ‘local advantage’, but also as the remaining regional course to be played on their tour. This was an inspired choice, with the course in great condition and a steady cooling breeze from the ocean adding another dimension to the skills required. In the end the locals (‘Thailand’) prevailed, however the Steinkjen team members were awarded Cha-Am Golf Club souvenirs to take home. The lowest putts competition was also won by two Cha-Am Golf Club Members; perhaps putting on Thailand greens was a significant winning edge.
The 19th hole entertainment was provided by a Stenkjen Member and guitarist\singer Karsten, who strangely enough seemed to favour Irish songs. This was a most enjoyable day of golfing camaraderie which Steinkjen President Erik Stene agreed, a great way to meet and greet the locals. This was the second of two challenges accepted (and won!) by the Cha-Am Golf Club recently. President Paul Graff said that the Club is always open to more challenges. Contact can be made, including membership enquiries, to www. chaamgolfclub.com.
