Despite taking a 3-1 lead from the doubles into Friday’s singles, Europe were still considered to be the underdogs. However, they turned the form book upside down to claim victory in the singles with a resounding 6-2 scoreline to leave the final score Europe 9 Rest of the World 3.
An hour into the singles, the sky grew dark and the heavens opened, sending the players running for cover, with the scourge of all golfers, lightning, a distinct threat.
It was agreed several times to abandon play but the more hardy element pleaded for more time and they were rewarded when eventually the weather cleared and play was resumed.
In the first match between Europe’s Alex Low and Rest of the World’s Peter Bourne, both players felt unable to continue in the conditions and a half was agreed.
In the second match, Peter Thripp gave Europe a flying start by going five up against Martin Moyle but when play restarted Martin won four holes in a row. However, Peter held his nerve to claim victory by 3&1.
Europe captain Tony Murphy looked to be heading for victory over Kade Robertson in the third match by going three up with three to play. Howver, Kade produced a great finish to claim a half on the final hole.
The fourth pairing saw Magnus Sundgren extend Europe’s lead with a 3&2 victory over Malcom McKay to take them within touching distance of victory.
The fifth match turned out to be a difficult time for Rest of the World”s A. Assurdourias as his opponent Keith Wood stormed (no pun intended !) to a 7&6 victory to ensure victory for Europe.
Society President Peter Dempsey continued Europe’s dominance to claim a 3&1 victory over Mike Picard in the sixth match.
The Rest of the World finally tasted victory in the seventh pairing when skipper Rod Young saw off a determined challenge from Peter Hughes for a 2&1 win. It was a close match with neither player managing to open up a two hole lead until the seventeenth. Remarkably no holes were halved, a rare occurrence.
The final game saw Europe’s Colin Bradwell beat Greg Miles 2&1 to leave an unbelievable scoreline of Europe 9 Rest of the World 3.
All the players deserve credit for their resilience in difficult conditions and for their sporting spirit over the two days.
Europe’s Peter Thripp did rub it it in just a little by draping himself in a Union Jack. Apparently Rest of the World skipper Rod Young also came armed with an Aussie flag but chose for it to remain hidden. A wise choice given the circumstances !
When everyone had dried out, the players adjourned to the Clubhouse (Paddy’s Irish Bar) for a buffet and the presentation of the inaugural Ryder Cup.
Once again landlord Rod Young and his staff provided an excellent buffet lunch , aided by Keith Wood’s wife Pan who was in the markets at the crack of dawn shopping for ingredients to make her delicious spring roles.
Buriram Golf Society President Peter Dempsey then said a few words before Rest of the World captain Rod Young presented the trophy to a beaming Europe captain Tony Murphy.
It was then time for a few drinks which stretched, for some, well into the night. An excellent end to an excellent day. ( Despite the weather !)
Those who were still there after 6pm were entertained by a young Thai singer/guitarist, who I believe is a regular Friday attraction. Worth a visit.
Finally, thanks to Frank of the Buriram Times for the excellent photos !