Pétanque shares a concept similar to bowls as the object of the game is to rest your boules closer to the coche (jack) than the other team. However, instead of rolling wooden bowls on a level grass playing area, Pétanque is played on rough terrain with metal boule which are rolled or tossed to the coche. Pétanque is played as singles, doubles or triples. In triples, each player has 2 boules and in singles and doubles each player has 3 boules. SVPL League matches only involve doubles and triples

Teams usually toss a coin to decide who starts. The winner of the toss draws a circle a throws the coche to land between 6m and 10m away from the circle. The rest of the game is spent trying to throw your boules closer to the coche than the other team. Unlike bowls, players on the same team can play in any order.

Boules must be thrown from within the starting circle; with both feet on the ground.

The aim is to throw the boule so that it comes to rest as close to the coche as possible, this is usually termed as “pointing”. If the opposition manages to point closer to the coche than your team, it is allowable to knock your opponents boule out of the way. This is known as firing and is regarded as an important part of the strategy of the game Once all boules have been thrown, the team with the closest boule receives a point for each boule that is closer to the coche than their opponents. The first team to earn 13 points wins the game. The rules of Pétanque / Boules are not complicated. the challenge comes in mastering your throwing skills and adopting an effective game strategy.

Sometimes referred to as French Boules, Pétanque is a game for everyone, it is a truly global and inclusive sport. Pétanque can be a competitive sport for those who enjoy playing it seriously but can also be enjoyed socially with friends and family. People of mixed skills, fitness and age can play equally together. As long as you can hold and throw the boule you can enjoy playing Pétanque.

The SVPL structure means that it is likely there will be a club near you that you can visit to find out more about the game and try it for yourself. Our members will be happy to welcome you and your friends to their club and help you get started. So go to the "Find a Club” page or contact the SVPL Committee to arrange a visit to a club near you.

Below are some links to information that will help you play Pétanque:

• Get a grip - if you hold and throw the boule correctly, everything is so much easier
• In a spin - once you master pointing, you can learn to swing the line of the boule
• Playing better teams - even when playing better players, good tactics can help level the game
• PE Video - a basic guide to choosing boule, pointing, shooting, tactics and practice routines. (21 min.)