Race Mesh Game (wood)

Of all the games played in Portugal, the Jogo da Malha is unequivocally one of the the most traditional games and the most played throughout the country, in the various variants. Played with wooden meshes and mecos, the Match of the Mesh Race is played by 2 teams of 2 elements each, distributed in a cross. set at the outset to distance from the mecos (usually it varies between 15 and 20 meters), each player throws the mesh with the aim of knocking down the meco, or belho (the pin or pestle). the overthrow of the Meco by the mesh is called «turn» and each time it is knocked down it is raised again so that the next player can throw the net. No player may step beyond the line, except after throwing the net, which is thrown in equilibrium position and when thrust. The attribution of points varies according to the region of the country, and the turn of the meco can be worth 2, 3 or 4 points. The mesh closest to the meco can be worth 3 points and if two meshes from the same team are located closer to the meco, they are worth 4 points (3 +1). Thus, the maximum number of points in a move can reach 8 points (and knockdowns of meco and two nearby meshes). The measurement of the position and proximity of the meco is performed by eye by the players, it may be necessary to resort to measurement. Whoever first reaches 30 points wins the game, allowing players to change position after completing 15 points. It can be stipulated to win the team that can the best of 3 in 5 matches.