It’s a strange game; Pétanque. We play it after lunch at the beach. It makes me feel so … so … continental. We’ve had, on occasion, six nationalities between the two teams. When the social lubrication has reached its optimal level, out come the boules. We usually play rusty boules versus shiny. But, first comes the lunch. Here’s Mike and Pascal and Rich preparing the victuals.  Mike appears to be supervising. Rich needs a good feed.

As a Yank, I’m allowed no closer than three meters to the barbie. On special occasions I’m allowed to help build the fire.

Hmmm, yes, we were talking about Pétanque. See, we don’t really do it properly. Actually we play Bush Pétanque (nothing to do with George). It’s much more interesting. I threw the jack right up against the back of the beach house and it got caught between some ancient roots. Anyway, after everyone had expended their boules, here’s how they ended up.

Isn’t that fascinating? Aren’t you just so happy that you checked my blog today? Otherwise you would never have seen such an amazing sight. Now get back to work before your boss catches you.

This FROM:  Shane McCarthy

The two teams that featured in the Grand Final – the Dulux Dogs and the Madang Lodge Turtles – had progressed through a Top Five Finals Series and emerged as the two best teams.

In what was a very close encounter the Turtles triumphed over the Dogs two sets to one. In a strange twist, both teams number ones – The Big Guns – failed to fire, maybe the occasion was too much for them. The deciding set came down to the two and three`s bashing it out for supremacy in Madang.

So, the Madang Lodge Turtles are our Champions for 2007; the Dulux Dogs are Runner Up.

Other awards at the presentation were the Solve-It Sharks: Third Overall; the Dulux Dogs: Most Consistent in Regular Season; and Nick Mleczko`s Potugese Men of War picked up the prestigious N.A.T.A. award.

Thanks to Rose Bukoya and Shane McCarthy for Organising both tournaments this year.

A new comp will kick off in late January – call Shane McCarthy on 852 2499 or email: madang@lbcgroup.com.pg if you wish to enter a team or want more info.

Anybody ever see a motlier mob of spectators? Looks like Tennis Night at Sheila’s Caravan Park.

Here’s the Runners-Up – the Dulux DOGS looking like fresh-as-a-daisy, ready-to-roll, in-your-face TENNIS TERRORS!

And, not to be left out of course, the Winners – the Madang Lodge TURTLES! [my oh my, they do look weary - ed.]

Good job tennis freaks – keep it up!