Bryant Park

Pétanque

Pétanque is a French game of “boules” (French for balls), where each player strives to throw metal balls as close as possible to a smaller wooden ball, named the “cochonnet”. Most games are played in teams, and are staged on the gravel area near the Sixth Avenue and 42nd Street corner. Tournaments are played on the gravel paths around the Bryant Park lawn. Game strategies include “pointing” when a player throws his ball to have it roll as close to the cochonnet as possible, and “shooting” when a player aims for the ball of an opponent, hoping to move him out of a favorable spot.

Equipment needs

A good set (3) of Pétanque balls, and a wooden “jack” (target ball).

La Boule New Yorkaise

“La Boule New Yorkaise” is a New York City pétanque club (over 100 members) affiliated with the Federation of Pétanque USA Inc. (FPUSA). The club is dedicated to the promotion of pétanque as a fun and recreational activity, as well as a competitive sport. In 1986, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2002 a team (3 players) from La Boule New Yorkaise won the right to represent the United States at the (men’s) World Championship. In 1994 and 2002, women players from La Boule New Yorkaise were members of the USA Women’s team which represented the United States at the Women’s World Championship.

For information, contact Mr. Ernesto Santos – “La Boule New Yorkaise” Email: info@labouleny.com.

Bryant Park Ping Pong

The Ping Pong area is located near 42nd Street and 6th Avenue. Hone your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Fred Perry and SPiN New York

Fred Perry is well known as a world class tennis player. Less known however, is his passion and dedication for table tennis - or ping pong. This year the eponymous brand celebrates 100 years since Fred Perry was born and to mark this important milestone it is hosting events throughout the world. In New York, it has partnered with SPiN New York to bring you Bryant Park Ping Pong. Every day through the entire summer, you will be able to play table tennis accompanied by experienced players from SPiN New York.

SPiN New York, a new table tennis social club, offers Olympic quality table tennis courts, pro shop, lounge, bar, and over a dozen internationally known professional coaches and players, who are available for private and group instruction. www.spinyc.com

For more information on upcoming tournaments and special events please contact us at 212-768-4242.