Backgammon & Cribbage: New Games for Game Day?

Are you a fan of strategy and friendly competition? We’re exploring the idea of adding Backgammon and Cribbage to Ha’Penny Beach Club’s Game Day lineup, and we’d love your input!

Backgammon is a classic game of strategy and luck, combining quick decisions with careful planning. Meanwhile, Cribbage offers a unique mix of card play and scoring, perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced, brain-teasing challenge. Both games are easy to learn and endlessly entertaining for players of all levels.

If you’d be interested in playing Backgammon or Cribbage on Game Day, please reach out to Tom Rusling at tgrusling@gmail.com. Your feedback will help us determine if these games become part of our regular lineup.

Let’s make Game Day even more fun! Whether you’re a seasoned player or curious to learn, we hope to see you at the club.


How to Play Bocci: A Simple Guide

Bocci (also spelled bocce) is a fun, relaxing game that combines strategy, precision, and a touch of friendly competition. Rooted in Italian tradition, this timeless pastime is easy to learn and perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re playing at Ha’Penny Beach Club or in your backyard, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy a game of bocci.

What You’ll Need

  1. Bocci Set
    A set typically includes:
    • 8 bocci balls (4 of one color, 4 of another)
    • 1 pallino (the smaller target ball)
  2. Playing Area
    • A flat, smooth surface is ideal, such as grass, sand, or a bocci court.
    • A regulation bocci court measures 60 feet by 12 feet, but you can adjust the size to suit your space.

Objective of the Game

The goal is simple: toss your bocci balls closer to the pallino than your opponent’s balls. Points are scored based on proximity to the pallino at the end of each round (called a frame).

Game Setup

  1. Divide Into Teams
    Bocci can be played as singles (1v1) or doubles (2v2). Each player or team gets four bocci balls.
  2. Determine First Player
    Flip a coin or play rock-paper-scissors to decide who throws the pallino first.
  3. Toss the Pallino
    The first player throws the pallino into the playing area. It must land at least halfway down the court.

How to Play

  1. First Toss
    The player who threw the pallino also throws the first bocci ball, aiming to get it as close to the pallino as possible.
  2. Alternate Turns
    • The opposing team throws next, attempting to land their ball closer to the pallino than the first ball.
    • Play alternates between teams until all balls have been thrown.
    • A team continues throwing until they place a ball closer to the pallino than the opponent’s closest ball.
  3. Strategy
    • You can aim to get your ball close to the pallino or knock your opponent’s balls farther away.
    • Precision and placement are key to earning points.

Scoring

  1. Determine Points
    • At the end of the frame, the team with the closest ball to the pallino scores points.
    • One point is awarded for each ball closer to the pallino than the opponent’s closest ball.
  2. Winning the Game
    • Games typically go to 12 points, but you can set a different target based on your preferences.

Tips for Playing Bocci

  • Master Your Grip: Hold the bocci ball comfortably with your palm facing up for better control.
  • Use Your Surroundings: Adjust your throw based on the terrain—roll gently on smooth surfaces or toss higher on uneven ground.
  • Practice Patience: It’s not always about power. A well-placed toss often beats a forceful one.

Why Bocci is Great

Bocci is more than just a game—it’s a way to unwind, connect with friends, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re playing casually or in a spirited match, bocci offers something for everyone.

So grab your bocci set, find a flat surface, and let the games begin. You might discover your new favorite pastime!


Join us for Ha’Penny Game Day

Ha’Penny Club Game Day is a vibrant mix of strategy, laughter, and friendly competition! Members gather to enjoy an afternoon filled with the clatter of domino tiles and the thoughtful tension of Bridge.

The Dominoes table is especially lively, with players showcasing their sharp math skills and playful banter as they outmaneuver opponents to claim victory. From classic draw games to Mexican Train, every round brings its share of surprising turns and triumphant cheers.

Over at the Bridge corner, the focus is palpable as teams delve into intricate strategies, bidding wars, and precision plays. Partnerships are tested (and strengthened!) as each hand unfolds like a story, culminating in an exciting tally.

Game Day reminds us that no matter the stakes, the real win is the joy of shared moments and community.

Game day is every Thursday—join us for new games and old favorites !

Photo credit: Molly Winkleman
Photo credit: Molly Winkleman
Photo credit: Molly Winkleman

Checkmate to Stalemate: A Clash of Chess Titans

Witness history in the making as Lionel Garrison and Herb Land engaged in an epic chess battle on April 25th, from 10am to 3pm at Ha Penny Beach Club. Two strategic minds battled throughout game day, playing 4 games total with each player winning two games, ending the match in a thrilling draw.

Lionel Garrison
Herb Land

the Joy of Mexican Train Dominoes

Join the excitement at Ha’Penny Beach Club every Thursday for Mexican Train Game Day! Dive into the world of strategy, fun, and camaraderie as we lay down the tracks and embark on a journey of tiles and tactics. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, everyone’s welcome to hop aboard this thrilling adventure. Bring your friends, unleash your competitive spirit, and let the good times roll as we gather for an evening filled with laughter and thrilling gameplay. See you at Ha’Penny for a train-tastic Thursday!”