Palet Breton is gaining ground at the moment. It's a variant of pétanque, but it's more fun and easier to play. Petanque is often criticised for various reasons.
Not only is the heavy ball a bit tiring, but players and spectators can be exposed to the risk of being thrown. This can lead to injury or trauma. This is one of the reasons why shuffleboard is so popular. They are based on the same principles as pétanque, but are simpler and more fun.
If you want to have fun with family and friends, this precision game is perfect for you. To find out more about the rules of shuffleboard and how to play like a pro, read on.
When was shuffleboard first played?
This game is fairly old, dating back to around the 15th century. The decks used at the time were made of flat stones or pebbles. At the time, there were no shuffleboard boards. The game was played immediately on the pitch.
The game of shuffleboard first appeared in France in the 16th century in the Rennes region. It quickly became popular throughout Brittany. In fact, the first numbered shuffles originated in this region around the 19th century.
In the early days, a simple plank of wood was used as the playing surface. Gradually, however, the shapes and dimensions of the board were standardised. A square board measuring 70 cm by 70 cm was required. After the First World War, the first shuffleboard tournaments were held at the Halles des Lices in Rennes. Since then, the Breton game of palets has been the symbol of great festivities.
The game has gradually conquered other French regions and even the world. Its reputation is now undisputed, with thousands of players and several annual tournaments.
What materials do you need to play?
This Breton shuffleboard game involves throwing pucks at a board. The aim is to get as close as possible to the master to score points.
First of all, you need a board to serve as a playing field. If the board is made of lead, it measures 45 x 45 cm. If it's made of wood, the classic 70 x 70 cm format applies. Players should bring two or four pucks each. A precision compass is useful to avoid disputes over which pucks win. A puck lifter will also help you pick up the pucks without having to bend over and stand up all the time.
What are the rules of shuffleboard?
The list of Breton shuffleboard rules is not long. With a few tries, you'll be able to master them.
The rules for starting the game
The throw line must be 5 m from the board. To find out which team is going to start, throw the small puck or the master. Each team then throws a shot. The team with the puck closest to the master can start the game.
In this case, the master must be thrown again. If, after three tries, the team fails to place the puck on the board. The other team's turn must be given.
Once the master is in the right position, the teams take it in turns to throw the pucks. The team with the puck closest to the master leads the game.
Note that a throw must contain an even number of pucks. The player must therefore throw two pucks at the same time.
Rating rules
As in pétanque, the rule of proximity to the master comes into play. Once all the pucks have been used, the points must be counted. A team scores a point when it has the puck closest to the master. If several pucks are closer to the small puck than the opponent's pucks, each of them scores a point. The team with the most points continues the game immediately.
Shuffleboard ends when a team scores 12 points. In the event of a tie, another game must be played.
How to play shuffleboard like a pro?
In principle, if you've played pétanque before, you shouldn't have any problems with this Breton shuffleboard game. However, here are a few tips on how to play like a pro. Basically, it's all about the technique of throwing the puck. You can't just do it at random, you have to use very precise movements.
Holding on to the puck
Before you start throwing, you need to be well prepared. To do this, you need to pick up the puck and hold it correctly with three fingers. The middle finger will support it, the thumb will hold it and the index finger will wrap it.
Adopt a stable position
When you're on the delivery line, adopt a stable position. It's not a question of standing still, but of taking a little momentum and bringing your leg forward. This way, you'll be able to control your shot and your pucks.
Cushioning the puck throw
The final and most important point is the throw itself. You need to make sure that it is well cushioned. Not only must the puck enter the board, it must also land well. A good landing is one that is neither too flat nor too vertical. It should be somewhere in between, meaning that the puck is at a slight angle. It can then reach its target while still being close to the master.
Conclusion about shuffleboard and its rules
In short, Breton shuffleboard is an easy game. If you learn the basic rules and keep in mind the techniques of the game, you'll be able to play like a pro and even take part in tournaments.
In any case, it's an interesting idea for entertainment at parties and family gatherings. All you need is a wooden board and some shuffles, so get practising now!
