“Only mad dogs, Englishmen (and pétanque enthusiasts) go out in the midday sun.”
Yesterday in Oakmont, Santa Rosa, the temperature hovered between 90 and 95 degrees, but that didn’t stop some oddballs from indulging in their favorite game.
Midday was so hot that boules inadvertently left in the sun became too hot to handle and had to be cooled off with water. Yet, under the aegis of Mister Pétanque (aka Jean-Michel) a dozen sunstruck enthusiasts persisted in their spirited enterprise.
The master of ceremonies, grand priest Jean-Michel, led his congregation in this annual ritual. As he does every year, he organized a mini-tournament, complete with food, drinks, and prizes.
The first game was played before lunch, and the second after, when everyone was suitably blitzed to continue playing.
Around noon, we all gathered around a long table (in the shade) to enjoy the food brought by the guests. Everything was excellent, particularly a great fresh fruit salad that was wolfed down by the assembled guests.
Various drinks flowed freely, and conversations flourished. As tradition dictated, Jean-Michel led us in a spirited rendition of La Marseillaise, after which we returned to the playing field for another round of boules.
The heat was intense, and I am quite sure that everyone sweated off a few pounds. When it was finally over, we all retreated and collapsed in the blessed coolness of the host’s living room.
The master of ceremonies then handed out prizes to the crowd’s applause. The results were somewhat unexpected and particularly appreciated by the winners.
Thank you, Jean-Michel, for organizing this event and sharing your home with your partners in crime.
1st place: Alain & John
2nd place: Antoine & Pia
3rd place: Eva & Bernard
4th place: Jean-Michel & Tamara
Alain
PS: please watch pictures in “full screen” for maximum effect.