At the Pattaya Indoor Stadium located in Soi Chayapeuk 2 in Jomtien, the much anticipated 43rd World Petanque Championships begun on Wednesday Afternoon. The formalities were led by Privy Councilor Air Chief Marshall Kamthon, the President of the Petanque Association of Thailand who was joined by Khun Tamnoon, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Mr. Claude Azema, President of the International Federation of Petanque. 52 countries and over 10,000 players are taking part in this event which is being held in Thailand to commemorate the 80th Birthday of His Majesty the King. The competition continues until Sunday 23rd September and entrance to spectators is free. For more information you can log on to www.pattaya-petanque2007.com