For the second year The Raven on Queen Street sponsored the Triples open Petanque competition, held in Queen Square on Aug 16th. The weather was changeable as has been the norm this summer and tops were removed and replaced frequently. Thankfully the umbrellas were left folded. The refurbished pistes were in excellent condition, our thanks to B&NES park dept.
The competition, now in its 4th year, was the usual petanque mix of intense and friendly, one of the few ball games that you can play seriously and still enjoy a beer or two. As seems to be becoming a tradition the sponsors team, Team Raven, was out classed by most of the field, we really must get down to some practice, I hear it makes you better.
The event was organised by the stalwarts of Bath petanque, City of Bath Petanque Club, who did a great job of making sure that everybody knew what they were doing and had a good time doing it. Tilley’s Bistro supplied a fine Ploughman’s lunch, served by the good folk at Harington’s club, to fortify our throwing arms and smiles all round were provided by the friendly, competitive atmosphere.
The day started with draws for the round robin tournament, which lasted the morning. After lunch came the knockout rounds, which saw Team Raven removed early on, as I said, practice has got to help. The day’s play came down to an intense final between The London Team and The Compton Inn team Wot Nots, with The London being the eventual winners of the Meal for three at Tilley’s and holders of the trophy. The plate trophy was won by the Harington Club who beat the team from Le Pinch
