Pétanque Wallingford (PW) was established in 2010 by a group of enthusiastic players, Thérèse, Gerry and Loren. The Club initially played on the Wallingford Sports Park car park and at various locations around Wallingford. Early activities included informal games and small competitions, which quickly gathered interest and participation.
In 2013 PW became a constituent member of the Wallingford Sports Trust, joining at the time the six other sports clubs. Wallingford Sports Trust is a charitable organisation which manages the Sports Park. PW is affiliated to Pétanque England, the sports national governing body and is in the Thames Valley Pétanque Association.
The eight piste terrain was constructed in 2014, quickly followed by the floodlights and perimeter fencing. This work was wholly funded by members with fundraising, donations and members taking out longterm subscriptions. In 2017 a further three piste terrain was added together with a shelter and storage facility. These additions were funded with grants from Sport England, Wallingford Town Council, Tesco and Waitrose.
In the early years PW fielded two teams in both the Thames Valley Weekend and Midweek Leagues. PW has also entered the Pétanque England Eurocup competition, reaching the semi finals in 2022. The Eurocup is a national club competition with the winners representing England in Europe and this year PW hosted the semi final competition. Recently the Wombats won the 2023 Midweek League with the Red Herrings and Red Kites coming second and third in the 2023 Weekend League. Several members have played at Regional and National level.
Whilst PW does well in competitions the core membership is social. Members play two or three games during the various weekly club sessions with some entering club competitions. There is a full programme of club mêlées, singles, doubles and triple competitions together with social events. Along with the social aspect for members PW promotes the sport of pétanque with community involvement with local organisations and groups including Newbury Phoenix Rotary Club, U3A, Henley Falaise Town Twining, Full Circle Kids Camp and French Beanies after school club.
Pétanque is one of the most inclusive sports and PW strives to provide a welcoming environment where players of all ages and skill levels can come together to enjoy this unique and strategic sport.
Adrian Aldred
August 2024
President - Adrian Aldred
Secretary - Sarah Massey
Treasurer - Pete Jones
Fixtures - Paul Hammond
Membership - Val Smith
Social - Debbie Hammond
We will do our best to get back to you as soon as possible.
