The first of 2 trial events for Midweek Pétanque is next Tuesday 1030 at Heckmondwike. They’ve been designed for players who want to try a more competitive game than the HPC sessions but not as demanding as regional events. Here’s the answers to the most asked questions.
Who started this? We’re a group of pétanque players from West Yorkshire Clubs. We are not a club. At our first meeting were Clive, Gordon, Tony, Colin, David, Bev, Roger, Roy, Paul, Robin, Brendan & Shirley. We’re hoping to put on competitive but friendly midweek pétanque events targeting players about an hour’s drive from venues in West Yorkshire.
Why? There’s a significant amount of social pétanque played in local clubs but there is also a demand for more competitive play from some players. There may only be a few in each club but there is enough for such players to work together to provide competitive events that cut across club boundaries. Regional & national events tend to be at weekends and long days with early starts and we think there is a market for mid week, off peak, short day events.
Where? Our initial plans are for events at West Yorkshire clubs. We hope to have 2 trial events in early 2023 to see if the idea works.
When? As the name suggests they will be on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays and run from mid morning to mid afternoon thus avoiding rush hour traffic. Typical timings will be 1030 start; 1245 lunch; 1315 restart; 1515 finish.
What? The format will be a 4 round snake with a low entry fee. You’ll keep the same partner all day. All money returned as prizes. No licence, no membership, no affiliations required. No ranking points, no league tables. Each event will be self contained, no pre-registration & pay on the day.
How much will it cost and are there prizes? £5 for pairs and £9 for triples. All entry fees will be returned as prizes but the emphasis is on more little prizes rather than a few big prizes.
Can I bring a 3 person pairs team and a 4 person triples team? Yes
What if it’s bad weather? Wear extra layers for a cold day and bring waterproofs if it might rain. Only extreme weather will force a cancellation.
How do you decide the winner? Similar to HPC melees. Most wins is the winner and points difference resolves ties. All players who give their email will be emailed the results sheet.
Huddersfield Pétanque 
This sounds like a great idea for those who wish to improve their standard of competitiveness without having to travel long distances