The ‘Boules to You’ trophy was donated by Graeme Millard, the founding UHPC captain, and former Wellington Petanque Association president, who sadly passed in April 2025. The trophy was intended to promote the game of petanque by encouraging lesser experienced players to participate in a friendly tournament between Masterton and Upper Hutt petanque clubs.

The annual tournament was held in Masterton (who were the current holders) on 20th November 2025, where five doubles teams from each club played four games, with both partners and opposition randomized. Sharing of entries was allowed so that those who felt that four games was too much, could still participate, and additional entries could be accommodated. The two games before lunch break saw Upper Hutt quite well ahead with 8 wins to Masterton’s 2. However, as often happens, things were not so smooth after the break, with Masterton taking 6 games. However, Upper Hutt did take another 4 games, making the final tally 12-8 to Upper Hutt. The weather was dry and (for some) hot, and the social side of the game was very prominent. Many thanks to Masterton for the rivalry, organisation, catering, and more importantly, for handing the trophy back to Upper Hutt!

Source: Upper Hutt Petanque Club

21/11/25