Boules or Petanque

I have always wondered whether boules and petanque are the same game, so I looked up Wikipedia.    I found out that boules, literally meaning ball, is the collective name for all related ball games including lawn bowls.   Different variations of boules have been played for centuries.

But the current form of boules is called petanque, and originated in 1907 in La Ciotat, Provence.  Petanque comes from petanca in the Provencial dialect of the Occitan language. And petanque is played by about 17 million people in France. and there are pitches (terrain) in all towns and villages.

In order to play, one stands inside a circle, with both feet on the ground, and throws a hollow metal ball as close as possible to a small wooden balled called a cochonnet, meaning literally 'piglet'.   We tend to call it a jack. Of course there is more to it than this, as you also want to move your opponent's balls away from the jack.   Much strategic thought is required by the players.

The terrain is made with sand, dirt or any other smooth and natural material.   The ground undulates which adds to the game as a good player knows how to ascertain how to best use the terrain.

The ball is thrown in a backward flip, from from ground level.   A most unusual action.

It is a fascinating game to watch, or a should say it is fascinating watching the collection of people out on the terrain.   They come in all ages, and appearances.    And the game is always played seriously.   

The players intently watch the man who is about to throw his ball.   Is he going to knock his opponents' balls out of the way or will he quietly place his ball beside the jack?

The guy on the left was interesting, in that he had a mop of curly blond hair, earrings in both ears, and was very tanned, an aging surfie type.   The guy to the right had a huge cigar which he sucked on most of the time.   Fascinating.

Another serious moment.

Who is the closest?    Perhaps the tape measure will have to come out.

Women play petanque too, but I must admit it seems to involve males mostly.  Perhaps women have more important things to do, such as work, clean houses, and look after children.