Contrary to what some might believe, the North is one of the departments of France with the most members of the French Federation of Petanque and Provençal Game (FFPJP). “I am not surprised that such a bowling alley is created in the North, confirms Michel Le Bot, president of the FFPJP. Admittedly, petanque originated in the South and retains a folkloric side there, but the North perceives it more as a competition. It’s a fantastic tool. »
And how: 128 outdoor tracks, 64 indoors and 1,000 seats in the stands for a bill of 9.5 million euros. “Northerners like pétanque, confirms Christian Poiret, president of the Nord department and of Douaisis Agglo, the originator of the project. Because, out of competition, it is a moment of conviviality, of social cohesion and it is a sport which is practiced without any particular preparation for a reasonable cost. »
A license costs 40 euros for the year but you can also come and play with family or friends with a pass at 5 euros a day. “It’s the cathedral of petanque that opens in Douai, is satisfied Michel Le Bot. Our great players are great travellers, they find themselves in clubs that have ambition. Many will therefore come to discover the North to discover its legendary warmth. »
Five world champions will be present for this inauguration weekend. The Douaisis bowling alley will be open to everyone from Monday for the whole year. Great competitions are already on the program in the coming months.
