This content was published: June 3, 2003. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Croquet and Petanque, ancient lawn games for summer fun
Photos and story by James Hill
PORTLAND, Ore. – Petanque and croquet have entertained families for thousands of years – and still pack plenty of action, strategy and hilarity to be popular in parks around the world. Now you can pick up these two lawn games with a Portland Community College non-credit class.Petanque & Croquet: Basic will test your competitive edge in a fun, interactive class in West Moreland Park. Instructors Joe Martin and Wally Clark explain how the ancient Romans and Gauls founded games that are now internationally popular sports. You’ll learn the skill and strategy involved – and discover how every athletic ability level can emerge victorious with some clever thinking. Students will finish the class ready to launch a game in the park, at a picnic or barbecue, or in their own backyard. "People familiar with the game of petanque have usually seen it played in Canada or Europe,"says Martin. "My experience with it began a couple of years ago when I returned from a visit to France, determined to learn how to play – now I’m hooked. Since then I play or practice almost every day and compete in tournaments.""The great thing about these games is that they’re designed for big groups of all ages and abilities – and everyone has a wildly fun time,"says Kaia Cabana, PCC Community Education manager. "This class will make you the hit of the summer scene when you introduce it to your family and friends."The class will meet from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays, June 28 through July 19, at West Moreland Park, S.E. 23rd and Bybee St. Cost is $39.For more information, contact PCC Community Education at 503-533-2708.
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »