Juniors Championship Opens with Color and Spirit in Plaintel

The festivities commenced with a lively parade that started from the heart of Plaintel city centre, accompanied by traditional music, and proceeded toward the Boulodrome of Plaintel. There, teams from across the globe were warmly welcomed and presented to the spectators.

The event featured opening remarks from several distinguished figures: Dr. Mutlu Türkmen, President of the Confédération Bouliste Internationale (CBI); Mr. Bernard Daubard, President of the French Boules Sports Federation (FFSB); and Mr. Vincent Alleno, Mayor of Plaintel.

Dr. Türkmen extended his heartfelt greetings to the 22 teams representing 21 countries—highlighting Hong Kong’s representation by two federations—and emphasized the importance of this event in promoting friendship and fair competition among young athletes from five continents. He expressed deep appreciation to the French Federation, the Plaintel Raffa Club, and the Municipality of Plaintel for making this historic first Raffa World Championship in France possible.

Mr. Daubard, in his address, underlined the spirit of bocce as a sport that fosters fair play, mutual understanding, and friendship—values especially vital for the younger generation. He expressed his pride and joy in welcoming the world’s best junior players to France.

Mayor Alleno warmly greeted the participants, noting the honor for Plaintel to host its first-ever world championship. He thanked CBI, FFSB, and the local club for their trust in his city’s ability to organize such an important international event.

Following the speeches, the ceremony continued with the traditional referee and player oaths, read by the head referee and a French junior player. The championship was then officially declared open by Dr. Türkmen and Mayor Alleno.

The ceremony concluded with a cheerful group photo featuring the three officials, the teams, and local children—symbolizing the shared joy and unity that define the spirit of bocce.