Join Us for the Annual Brian Holgate Memorial Petanque Tournament
Published 09:16 on 24 Mar 2025
Dear Gulf Harbour Yacht Club Members,
It's almost time for one of our club's most long-standing traditions, the Brian Holgate Memorial Petanque Tournament, an event that brings together our club's community in the spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie.
A Legacy of Community
This special tournament honours the memory of Brian Holgate, whose family has generously sponsored and organised this event since its inception. Jean and Brian sailed together for 55 years and were founding members of GHYC. So they deserve the title of not only being one of the reasons why GHYC is the great club that it is today, but also as one of our longest sponsors with past prizes being as large as an outboard motor!
Members may remember their Bavaria 42 yacht "Windcall" which is now owned and sailed by GHYC members Gary & Carol Massey.and also "Lovelight" featured in the photos above the bar. Well worth a look next time you are ordering a drink.
A Tradition Worth Continuing
When I think about what makes our club so special, it's events like this that come to mind. The Petanque Tournament traces back to the very beginnings of GHYC and really embodies our value of 'Everyone's welcome aboard' whether you're a seasoned boatie or just starting out, our club is all about inclusivity. We believe there's room for everyone to enjoy the ride.
This friendship, community, and fun is exactly the vision that our founding members like Jean and Brian established all those years ago.
Event Details
We are incredibly fortunate to be able to honour Brian's memory (thanks to Jean's continued support) with this Petanque tournament
Date: Saturday, 18 April, starting promptly at 11am. Registration at 1030.
Location: Gulf Harbour Yacht Club Grounds
Whether you're a seasoned petanque player or have never thrown a boule in your life, this tournament welcomes participants of all skill levels. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow social and boating club members to honor Brian's memory, and perhaps start your own tradition of participation.
Bring a picnic and a friend. We look forward to you joining us for this fun, social competition. Perhaps you'll even add your name to the historic trophy that celebrates this longstanding tradition!
Thanks to the Holgate family and their love of our sport and our yacht club community, the commitment they have made to preserving this tradition speaks volumes about our club and the lasting bonds formed here at Gulf Harbour.
Last updated 16:53 on 7 April 2026
