OBA defeats HSPC to set up playoff for league title

After HSPC had gone undefeated in the Tokyo Petanque League, Okubo Boules Association (OBA) dealt our team its first loss of the season on Dec. 16 to force a playoff for the title.

Behind from the first frame, our boys could never really find their rhythm and loss all 6 games.

The wild piste -- a fast terrain mixed with "rocks of death" and blankets of leaves -- proved untamable for us visitors, though we look forward to a future challenge.

The games were played in a good spirit and HSPC would like to thank OBA for their hospitality.

The two teams will clash for the trophy in a playoff at neutral Aoyama in January in a best of seven series.

HSPC stays undefeated in Tokyo Petanque League

HSPC resumed action in the Tokyo Petanque League on Saturday Nov. 3 and defeated Aoyama Petanque five games to one to remain undefeated.

Despite a threat of early rain at our beloved Myoshoji Park, the clouds cleared and after a hearty buffet washed down with champagne (or honey in one case! Sorry guys!) play commenced around 1 p.m. HSPC won all three games in the first round and sealed two of the remaining three matches to clinch the points to stay atop the league.

A few "revenge" friendlies followed in the "Swiss Alps" before players from both teams retired to the local izakaya for some seafood and suds.




Thanks to all players for making the day a success.

Full league results and standings

HSPC defeats OBA in Tokyo Petanque League

After an initial away draw against Aoyama in the Tokyo Petanque League, HSPC took on Okubo Boules Association (OBA) on Saturday, Sept. 22, on our home piste at Myoshoji Park.

The blistering weather made the ground crusty and inconsistent but a few cold ales smoothed the most important surface and HSPC fared well, with the teams of Bob and Raj and Steve and Greg winning all eight games.

The full results were:

Harrell-Mettam 13-4 Di Pietro-Hagans
Witmer-Shastri 13-5 Di Dunnam-Yoshikawa
Harrell-Mettam 13-8 Dunnam-Yoshikawa
Witmer-Shastri 13-0 Di Pietro-Hagans
Harrell-Mettam 13-12 Di Pietro-Yoshikawa
Witmer-Shastri 13-2 Dunnam-Hagans
Harrell-Mettam 13-9 Dunnam-Hagans
Witmer-Shastri 13-10 Di Pietro-Yoshikawa

After the dust settled, HSPC retreated to the tranquil setting of Greg's backyard for an impromptu celebratory BBQ, with the beers and snores (of one member!) lasting till well into the morning hours.







Well done guys.

For further details on the league see Tokyo Petanque League

Raj, Steve and Bernard win Tokyo Midtown Cup

It was an early rise and late shine on Sunday, September 16th, for HSPC members Steve and Rajan and guest Bernard.

After an initial setback in the opening game, the lads focused or getting through to the afternoon. An 11-3 defeat of the Samurais got things back on track, and with confidence restored, HSPC dominated NDB-5 11-1 in their third morning game to advance.

With 90 minutes for lunch on a sizzling day, the boys made the wise decision to replenish vital fluids and were joined by Ale-bert and Mike.


A few swigs of medicinal ale at trendy Tokyo Midtown recharged the tanks and HSPC soared through the afternoon competition, blanking NPD-4 11-0 in the final to seal a well-deserved victory.

Congratulations guys!

HSPC, Aoyama share spoils as Tokyo Petanque League gets underway

HSPC traveled to Aoyama on Saturday for the opening round of the Tokyo Petanque League. With many players away, working or on the injured list HSPC could only field one team but Bob and Greg earned a valuable draw for the club.

The rocky terrain was difficult to adjust to and getting close to the bit proved a real challenge. HSPC trailed in most games but rallied well and managed to salvage three important wins.

Full results can be seen at http://tokyoleague.petanque.cc/

Next up HSPC plays Okubo at home in September after the teams agreed to delay August's scheduled game.

Charlie back on his feet, sort of ...

After slipping and breaking his ankle, Charlie made a welcome return to Myoshoji Park on Sunday following a five-day stay in hospital to have his leg operated on.

With one hand on his crutches, and his foot wrapped in a bag, Charlie joined Bob and Greg for a game of three-way killer and performed very admirably, making several trademark clutch throws to earn the point.

His effort has earned him a nomination for HSPC Man of the Year!

We wish him a speedy recovery.

A big hello to Don in San Diego

Don, thanks for the feedback on our site. More regular updates to follow after a brief lull. Humble apologies.

Greg

PS The "sand bags" are all polished and await your return!