Welcome to
ZANESFIELD PETANQUE CLUB
What is Petanque?
Petanque (pronounced “pay-tonk”) is one of the world’s fastest growing outdoor activites. It is simple to learn; challenging to master. A distant relative of horseshoes and a cousin to the Italian game of bocce, petanque developed in France in the early 1900’s. It is one of Europe’s most popular outdoor games and is growing fast in the USA, Canada, Australia, and Asia.
The goal is to toss a number of hollow steel balls (called boules) as close as possible to a small target ball (called a jack or cochonnet). Players take turns and the team that ends up nearest to the target ball, once all balls are played, scores.
Unlike horseshoes where the target stake is fixed in place, a thrown boule can move the jack and change the scoring. A thrown boule may also strike another boule and can change the score dramatically. These two factors allow for strategic play that makes the game dynamic and exciting.
For more information about Petanque check out:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petanque http://www.usapetanque.org/
One of the best qualities of the game is that it can be played by all ages. Grandparents can play with their grandchildren. If you can pick up a boule, you can play petanque. Women and men, young and old, physically challenged—all can enjoy the game together and perform well. Beginners can enjoy the game right from the start, and those who are so inclined can spend a lifetime perfecting their skills.
By rule, the throw is made with both feet stationary, inside the small circle. This basic element of the game makes play possible for people who would find it challenging or impossible to participate in an activity requiring running or jumping; in fact, wheelchair play is written into the rules of the game. Petanque is a competitive activity that promotes problem solving skills and teamwork without the risks of concussions like other traditional sports and activities. Petanque lets everyone be involved during games without the need for someone to sit out, unlike many traditional sports teams.
Petanque forms a sense of community and provides the opportunity for a new kind of sociability that brings people together from all walks of life. Petanque reaches a full spectrum of people; it can break barriers between people of different backgrounds and can be played by people of all ages, from the very young to the very old—it is not a discriminatory game. Everyone is welcome to come and play at the Zanesfield Petanque Club!
