Petanque America Media Release
November 10, 2016 9:00 a.m.
After two in Miami Beach (2003 & ’05) and seven consecutive ones here in Fernandina, since 2009, this will be number 10.
Close to 400 competitors (in teams of 2) are driving or flying in this week to get ready for their annual get-together: the Petanque America Open, at the south end of the Fernandina Marina.. Petanque, (pron. ‘pay-tonk’) is the French cousin of horseshoes, and of “bocce”, the Italian bowling game.
The event is very unique in that it brings together players from around the world (from as far as New Zealand and Mongolia), and of all skill levels. Novices to champions. Including 4 World Champions, from France and Belgium. On Friday the 11th, these champions will hold clinics and demonstrations, to share their skills with the participants. Part of the proceeds are earmarked for Barnabas Nassau.
Preliminary rounds start on Saturday morning (also at the corner of Broome & N 2nd St), with finals scheduled for Sunday afternoon. Competition for the $10,000 purse will be stiff and guarantee spectacular performances, by players of all ages.
The public is welcome all weekend, free of charge, to watch the action and even try out the game, around the tournament grounds. At the tournament site, enjoy a nice variety of food, a beer and wine bar, various vendors, and live music – at lunch time – from around the world.
“Without the invaluable help of the local club members and the tremendous support of the City of Fernandina Beach, it would be impossible to organize an event of this size” said Philippe Boets, the founder of Petanque America. Adding that “Petanque has become very popular on the island, year-round. So nice to see how a century-old game from the South of France has found a permanent home also on our side of the Atlantic!”
For more information, visit the tournament website: petanque-america-open.net.
Pétanque originated in Provence in the early 1900’s as a simplified version of an older outdoor bowling game. The aim is to toss, or roll a number of hollow metal balls (“boules”) as close as possible to a small wooden target ball. Players take turns and the team that ends up nearest to the target ball when all balls are played, wins. No special skill is required, seniors can play with children, the equipment is inexpensive. The game is simple, fun, relaxing yet competitive, and a perfect way to make new friends.
Over the past 25 years its popularity has grown worldwide, with national leagues in 100 countries.