Marking and Measuring

Marking is essential for replacing the boules and cochonnet. This marking plays a part in governing how precisely a boule or cochonnet can be replaced after they have been lifted out or moved. If they have not been marked they have to be left where they ended up.

In the absence of a pointed stick, a finger can be use to trace two lines about 10 cm long. At right angles to each other and which meet at the base of the object being marked. The lines should be straight.

Mark two lines with a finger or stick.

There are two sorts of points that require measuring:

1. Close points - generally less than 110mm, the length of an 'umpire's measure' - where a single player carries out the measure.

2. Distant points, where two players are needed to carry out the measure; one uses the left hand to hold the measure to the boule, the other uses the right hand and their eye to the edge or centre of the cochonnet.

For all forms of measuring, the player/s should be squatting between the boule and the cochonnet.

There are also two sorts of measures:

1. The ‘approximate’ measure, which, if properly carried out, allows comparison to about 1mm. It is             carried out with a rigid metal measure.

2. The ‘precise measure’ which allow comparison up to fractions of a millimetre. It is carried out by using callipers or extending the end section of an 'umpire's measure'.

Measure with calipers.

These are very useful when the boule is very close to the cochonnet.

Measure with a folding ruler and extending the end for accurate measuring.

Note: The small metal rod rests next to the cochonnet

Measure with a tape.