What is the Game of Horseshoes?
Horseshoes, which is also called horseshoe throwing, is a non-contact game which is usually played outdoors. It can be played individually, between two people, or two teams with two members each. This is a classic example of a old fashioned pastime that has turned itself into a organized and very competitive sport.
The game uses four horseshoes and two throwing targets set in a sandbox area. The game is for the players to toss the horseshoes alternately at stakes in the ground. It is usually placed 40 feet apart. Contemporary horseshoes game use a stylized u-shaped bar, it is usually larger than an actual horseshoe.
There are two ways to score in this game, by throwing ringers and by throwing the horseshoe to the nearest stake. A show, which is not a ringer, but is 6 inches closer to the stake, is worth a point. If both players’ horseshoes are closer than the opposing player, then they gain 2 points. A player gains three points for a ringer. Four points for the player in the case of one ringer and a closer horseshoe.
Horseshoe throwing technique can differ. Some players flip the horseshoe while others turn it in a clockwise or counterclockwise motion. Those who turn the shoe may do so with a 3/4 turn, 1 1/4 turn or 1 3/4 turn.
Game Set-up
You will need a horseshoes kit; you can buy one at almost any store that sells games. If you don’t have a set, you can also use rings as a substitute. These rings or horseshoes may not be more than 2 pounds 10 ounces. You will then also need stakes or poles, no taller than 14 – 15 inches above the ground. You will also need a friend to play with.
How to Play Horseshoes
Firstly, you will need to set the court up following the simplified version of the court. Plant your poles in the ground no more than 40 feet apart, and mark the starting line 27 feet from the pole. Draw a foul line 3 feet away from the pole.
Each player will receive 2 horseshoes. The player who goes first will pitch his own horseshoes followed by the opponents.
When pitching these horseshoes, you may not go over the foul line. If you do, you lose your turn and your friend gets to go.
Scoring will work as follows:
You will get a point if your horseshoe is one horseshoe’s length away from the stake, but only if yours is the closest.
Two shoes closer than your opponent’s will give you 2 points.
You get 3 points if your shoe hits the stake and falls on it. This is called a ringer and it has to cover the entire stake.
If you have the closest shoe as well as a ringer you will receive 4 points.
Cancel the points if your opponent throws a ringer on top of yours.
Players will play until the person reaches a score of 40, but you may change this number to opt for a longer or shorter gameplay. 토토사이트
Horseshoes Game Variations
A great idea would be to play in teams, and follow the steps given above. You can also choose to play based on a shoe-score instead of a point score. Here the person who has the most shoes on the court will be the winner.
It would also be a fun alternative to change this into a tournament if you are a more experienced player. Winners face winners until the ultimate horseshoes champion is crowned.
