St. Johns County Council on Aging

Learn to play the traditional French game of Pétanque. You will find the outdoor game of pétanque (pronounced pétonk) being played in almost every town and village in southern France. All it takes to play the game is a set of two or more metal boules (balls), each ball weighing about 1.5 pounds; a small colorful target ball made of wood (called a cochonnet); and a players’ ring approximately 28 inches in diameter. The game is usually played on an outdoor gravel, sandy or grass surface. 

There are dozens of pétanque clubs throughout the United States. In the United States, the sport is governed by the Pétanque Federation of America. State and regional tournaments take place on a regular basis throughout the U.S. The sport is very popular with retired folks who sometimes play it well into their eighties. It is a wonderful activity for stimulating the physical and mental processing skills of people of all ages. The game is very easy to learn, but it takes practice and patience to become a skilled player.

The Pétanque classes will take place on a patch of gravel and grass behind the car park on the South West side of the COA building at 180 Marine St., but registration for the class is at River House (179 Marine St.)

Participants can wear any outdoor clothing, along with any outdoor shoes, but NOT sandals, flip-flops or shoes with exposed toes. You are encouraged to bring water, wear a hat with a brim or peak and use sunscreen. Also, bring a folding chair if you want a place to sit.

Class sessions will be on Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22 from 1:30 to 2:30 (no class session on April 29) at River House (179 Marine St. in St. Augustine)

For ages 18 and up.