On Saturday, August 26, members and guests of the Edmonds Petanque Club dedicated their day to support the Edmonds Food Bank. Though the final tally is not yet complete, the 12th annual Food Bank Tournament raised at least $10,000 for this important Edmonds institution, which serves 700 households per week, distributing over 125,000 pounds of food monthly. The Food Bank depends on the efforts of 300 volunteers from the community.

Under warm and smokey skies, 48 participants forming 24 doubles teams vied for the top prize. Morning matches determined the afternoon’s championship bracket, and then after lunch, matches led to the finals. Champions this year were Jeff Brann from the Seattle Petanque Club and his teammate Peter Wiant from the Port Townsend Petanque Alliance. Tu Hoang of the Edmonds Petanque Club and his son Thong Hoang took second place. Edmonds residents David Rockwell and Bob Mazelow finished in third place.

The club appreciates the generous gifts of many individuals who contributed to the fundraiser as well as corporate sponsorships from local businesses and organizations. These included Gold Sponsors Comstock Jewelry, Crista Ministries, McDonald McGarry Insurance, North Sound Church, and Rick Steves’ Europe, as well as significant donations from the ECA, Housewares, Paktia Pharmacy, Petanque America, Starbucks, Vinbero Restaurant, Trader Joe’s, and The Edmonds Beacon.

Before the action begins, Rich prepares the courts. A Zen garden of Petanque.

Ena Rosa takes careful aim

It was a full house at the Petanque Grove for the Food Bank Tournament. Marda, Wendy, and Joan in action.

Champion Peter Wiant records the moment in a selfie with Thong Hoang, Tu Hoang, Jeff Bramm, Jack McHenry, Bob Mazelow, and David Rockwell. Congratulations to Peter and Jeff for their top place finish!