Grand Prix Bar, Patpong

[Spaniel]

For those that new Rick, I received a e-mail from a friend that he (Rick) passed away in Las Vegas in April. Didn't mention the cause of death. RIP

[charmonman]

For those that new Rick, I received a e-mail from a friend that he (Rick) passed away in Las Vegas in April. Didn't mention the cause of death. RIP

That is sad news. I was a customer in the Grand Prix in its latter days ('89-'91), and always found Rick Menard to be a gracious host despite what seemed like a growing cynicism on his part about the nightlife scene in Bangkok.

I was at the Grand Prix on its closing night where an American priest gave a short speech thanking Rick, the staff and the customers of the bar for supporting activities over the years meant to improve the lives of children in the Klong Toei slums. The conversion of the Grand Prix into yet another soul-less Kings Group bar was one of the major events in the decline of Patpong from the wonderful place that it was in the 70's and 80's into the sad state it is in today.

[bonobo]

For those that new Rick, I received a e-mail from a friend that he (Rick) passed away in Las Vegas in April. Didn't mention the cause of death. RIP

That is sad news. I was a customer in the Grand Prix in its latter days ('89-'91), and always found Rick Menard to be a gracious host despite what seemed like a growing cynicism on his part about the nightlife scene in Bangkok.

I was at the Grand Prix on its closing night where an American priest gave a short speech thanking Rick, the staff and the customers of the bar for supporting activities over the years meant to improve the lives of children in the Klong Toei slums. The conversion of the Grand Prix into yet another soul-less Kings Group bar was one of the major events in the decline of Patpong from the wonderful place that it was in the 70's and 80's into the sad state it is in today.

My condolences to his family.

Your post has me wondering, though.  I thoroughly enjoyed my couple of visits to Patpong back in the early 80's.  I despise the place now.  I had thought that maybe that was due to my young age back in the 80's and my world view changing since then.  But from your post, I wonder if it is possibly the place itself that has changed?

[NanLaew]

RIP Rick.

[Naiplan]

I knew Rick well and most of the rest of the gang, Father Joe from Klong Toey as well. Rick never drank in anyone else's bar but his private bar in the corner saw some wonderful nights, ah history!! A little info for those who may not know - the Grand Prix was originally called the Pit Stop and was the first GO-GO bar on Patpong. I am not sure but if I recall correctly it was first opened in 1965 or it may have bee '68. RIP Rick.