Written by: Roger | James | Jon | Wednesday, 29th July 2026 - 10:00

Category: Activities | Tags: petanquepétanque

On a hot and humid morning, 23 players arrived at the HSCP site for the first of this year's Pétanque sessions.

Having originally had over 30 names on the sign-up sheet, organiser Roger had split them into the requisite four groups, so albeit with the reduced numbers, he stayed with the team groupings and after instructions from Russ on the basics of the game, we moved to the four pistes, allegedly in the shade of the trees.

The usual noise of high euphoria, and low groans echoed across the four groups, as the excitement of boules landing close to the cosh, and criticism of partners for poor shots, but everyone seemed to enjoy the morning in varying degrees.

There was still time for refreshments including the regulation assortment of cakes, before Russ announced the 'best' players of the morning. Top lady was Iris, just pipping former winner Pam, and Roy, a previous joint winner was the top man of the day.

It's only half-time though, there's still the next session in a few weeks' time, so can they hold onto their lead, or will honours be shared as per 2025?

Our thanks to Russ & the HSCP team who looked after us as always.