Morganton, NC

Exciting times for Carolina Petanque

Mayor Thompson with Kirk and Bo

John and Jane with Director Winkler

Restrooms are really nice and close

Right beside the playground and parking lot

JUDGEs restaurant is a three minute walk!

The Catawba River

Several Carolina Petanque members held a late afternoon meeting on Wednesday with Morganton's mayor, Ronnie Thompson, and the town's Parks and Recreation Director, Rob Winkler. Attending as Carolina Petanque representatives were: Kirk Edwards, president; Bo Edwards; Shirley Jones, vice-president; Gary Jones, secretary/treasurer; and Morganton residents Steve Gantt, Jane Gantt, and John Gantt.

We were very encouraged by the discussion. The Morganton officials seem to be genuinely interested in adding petanque to the impressive list of activities offered at Catawba Meadows Park .The site they have planned for us is close to parking, playgrounds, restrooms, refreshments, a nice restaurant, and the beautiful greenway along the Catawba River. And, when I say close, I mean a walk of a few hundred yards!

The plans call for a playing area of approximately 33 by 33 meters. That should be 16 full sized courts. If so, we would be able to hold tournaments for 64 doubles players or 96 triples players! That would enable Carolina Petanque to become more involved in FPUSA regional and national play should we choose to do so.

Exciting times! Maybe something by the beginning of the year (or before!)?