Welcome to our brief overview of the rules of pétanque, designed to give you a quick yet comprehensive understanding of this delightful game. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned player needing a refresher, this guide covers all the essential rules you need to know. Pétanque, with its roots in the sunny south of France, combines strategy, skill, and social enjoyment. As you read through the basics, why not enhance the experience with a glass of Rosé Pétanque? Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the simple yet captivating world of pétanque. Enjoy learning and playing!
Introduction
Pétanque is a boules game originating from the south of France. The goal is to score points by throwing metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball called "cochonnet".
Official Rules
Playing Field: A pétanque field is typically between 12 and 15 meters long and 3 to 4 meters wide.
Equipment: Each player or team uses metal balls with a diameter between 70.5 and 80 mm and a weight between 650 and 800 grams. The cochonnet has a diameter of 30 mm.
Start of the Game: The game starts with a draw to decide which team starts. A throwing circle of 35 to 50 cm in diameter is drawn on the ground, at least one meter from any obstacle.
Throwing the Cochonnet: The player throws the cochonnet between 6 and 10 meters from the throwing circle.
Throwing the Balls: Players take turns throwing the balls, trying to get as close as possible to the cochonnet. The player's feet must remain inside the circle until the ball touches the ground.
Points: A team scores one point for each ball closer to the cochonnet than the nearest ball of the opposing team. The game is played until a team reaches 13 points.
Game Variants
Lyonnaise Pétanque: A variant where the field is larger and the rules for throwing balls are slightly different.
Provençal Pétanque: A variant where players can take a run-up before throwing the ball.
Provençal Game: Similar to Provençal Pétanque but with specific rules for throwing the cochonnet and balls.
Common Game Situations
Hit Ball: If a ball hits the cochonnet and moves it, the game continues with the cochonnet in its new position.
Cochonnet Out of Bounds: If the cochonnet is moved out of the field boundaries, the round is canceled and must be replayed.
Ball Out of Bounds: A ball that goes out of the field boundaries is removed from the game.
