WHAT IS PETANQUE GAME?

Pétanque is a game which can trace its origins back as far as 52 BC with balls and a jack similar to those used today unearthed in the sarcophagus of an Egyptian Prince. The version of the game that we play today is played throughout the world and is governed by a set of Internationally agreed rules. It was first defined in France in 1910 as an adaptation of a similar game, specifically to enable a handicapped player to participate. There are approximately 600,000 registered players worldwide, roughly 1200 in Australia and about 200 in South Australia. In addition to these registered players there are many thousands who play casually. The concept of the game of Pétanque is simple and similar to bowls, i.e. resting your boule closer to the jack than your opponent. However, instead of rolling wooden bowls over an immaculately maintained lawn, Pétanque is played on an easily maintained area of fairly level ‘stony’ ground, with metal boule rolled or tossed to the jack. It is a sport for all ages and both sexes and can be played wherever a reasonable surface can be found or created. The game is an attractive way to enjoy good company and the outdoors, as well as learning new skills.

The good thing about Pétanque is that it can be played as a game between any and all groups of people. Grandparents and grandchildren, parents and children, friends, lovers and neighbours can all enjoy a game of Pétanque. The degree of skill will be varied but the level of enjoyment will always be high.

Gawler Pétanque Club normally meet in Essex Park Gawler but on a regular basis we meet in the stunning surroundings of Château Dorrien and enjoy playing on the excellent Pétanque facilities there. The game was invented in France so what better than playing at a renowned winery and perhaps enjoying a good glass of wine with lunch.