The Independent Doubles '07

So off I go to the Sow & Pigs, High Cross! I go right thru' High Cross. I turn round in and go right back thru' High Cross. No sign. In desperation I call in at the petrol station. "The Sow & Pigs? Not in High Cross! Try Thunderidge!"

That's when I remember having corrected it once (but not at source). Sorry Folk!

I finally find it and a warm welcome at the bar where even Martin was showing the best side of his nature.


And Hey! What a great Pub! Convivial drinking and dining areas -- -- a popular carvery and mine host! -- and outside, interesting nooks & alfresco dining!
So much for the regulars but what about the pétanquers?

We were well served in the dappled shade of this delightful terrain!



The League should rate itself lucky to have such a terrain and the effort to host an event as well as this!

OK - I'm sure many of you must have helped but much must be due to the efforts of these two!!

I took loads of photos but I was experimenting with a new lens so some were more successful than others.
However I rather like these three of two of the Sow & Pig players:

But how about this young player? I've seen many an Independent League player twice his age who would do well to study his approach! I saw him loft several boules over short ones in front of the coch to stop on landing and hold shot within a few millimetres of it. And note those feet! Both well inside the circle! Both in contact with the ground! None of the flagrant cheating I've seen from some of his elders who stand with one foot in the circle, one behind and often outside which they then lift off the ground as they transfer their weight to throw the distance required. Yes! I did say "flagrant cheating". It's against the fundemental rule of Pétanque and gives them a great advantage over players struggling to achieve the distance while observing the rules. Well done lad!

And so to a few more action shots:







So finally what can I Say?
Love the pose!
Loath the product!