Laurent (60) opens the first Flemish petanquespeciaalzaak: On vacation my first ball thrown and three years later, garage converted into a shop

Halle Laurent Of Waelem (60) open in Halle, the first petanquespeciaalzaak of Flanders. The man converted his garage into a beautiful showroom and displays with fun advice to those looking for the perfect petanquebal. “From beginner to pro: I can be everyone to the right balls help,” says Laurent.

Laurent was in his ‘Petanque Store, all customers from the whole of Flanders on a visit. During the open day last weekend found people from Stekene, belgium, Aalst and Leuven but also from Wallonia, the road to the shop in the Molenstraat. “Petanque remains a popular sport,” explains Laurent. “Alone, in Halle there are six recreatieclubs and in each village, there will be played. And then there are the major leagues and tournaments. Everyone here will find his material can be found: from the beginner to the profspeler who is preparing for the world championships.”

Laurent is itself of course an avid petanquespeler. “Three years ago I went on holiday, and together with the family, I played there my first games,” he says. “Many people go so. On holiday is played and when you get back home you'll be petanquen. In the meantime, we here in Halle, a private club established and I have in the garden, a petanque pitch built. A petanquewinkel is now the next step.”