Run the round

How to play Closest to Jack Ladder

Step 1

Climb a closest-to-jack ladder with equal turns.

Step 2

Judge the closest result against the scoring rule before anyone resets.

Step 3

Reset the closest setup, rotate evenly, and stop at the agreed finish condition.

Guide details

Run it cleanly

Scoring

How the result works

2-8 players, about 15-40 min at Gravel Lane. Pick turns, keep petanque scoring visible, stop at target.

Example: Climb a closest-to-jack ladder with equal turns.

Host tip

Keep it clean

Moving the start mark or changing score values after play begins. Keep one score card for the full round.

Safety: Keep the target lane and follow-through area clear, retrieve only after the attempt ends, and use venue-safe equipment.

Best for

Who it fits

2-8 who want a 15-40 min round.

Energy

Pace

Low

Board Petanque

Category Petanque

Best for 2-8 who want a 15-40 min round.

Players 2-8

Time 15-40 min

Gear Boules, jack, measuring tape, and lane markers

Space Gravel, dirt, or marked patio lane

Energy Low

Setup Start from Petanque Board and tell the group the activity is Closest to Jack Ladder.

Twist it

Variations to try

Quick mode: play one short timer round, record the result, then decide rematch or switch.
Team mode: split into two teams and rotate turns so mixed skill stays playable.

Moment fit

Use it in these hubs

Closest to Jack Ladder also fits these setup-first pages when the group starts from the situation instead of the board.

Group share

Send the setup

We're playing Closest to Jack Ladder from Studboards. Climb a closest-to-jack ladder with equal turns. Fits: Players: 2-8 | Time: 15-40 min | Gear: Boules, jack, measuring tape, and lane markers Safety: Keep the target lane and follow-through area clear, retrieve only after the attempt ends, and use venue-safe equipment. View Idea: https://www.studboards.com/sports/petanque/petanque-closest-to-jack-ladder.html

Closest to Jack Ladder

Quick start.