For competitive families, or people looking for something with a bit of excitement, the game of horseshoes is the real deal. With this game, players get nostalgia and thrill all rolled into one. More interestingly, a horseshoe pit can be set up with just a little cash and space. That said, say goodbye to boring family reunions and neighborhood barbeque parties by throwing the thrilling Horseshoe game into the mix!
About Horseshoes
The game of horseshoes has been a popular hobby for generations. Historically, its origin is attributed to the Greeks, but no one knows when the use of rings in quoits gave way to the usage of horseshoes. Pitching horseshoes is appealing because it is easy to learn, requires little equipment, and can be enjoyed by virtually anybody. Although a few people take it very seriously, for the most part, it is a fun backyard sport that allows people to talk while barely breaking a sweat.
Don’t be deceived by horseshoes’ simplicity. This is because pitching horseshoes is simple to learn, but becoming a skilled player is more difficult. There are a variety of intricacies about the game that separate the amateurs and pros. For example, more experienced players may lean closer to a turn or flip-pitching style (see our picks for the best horseshoes for flip pitching). No matter your experience level, horseshoes is an excellent game that only gets better as your skill improves.
Simply put, horseshoes consist of two opposing playing pits, each with a stake. To get a horseshoe that lands around the stake, players toss horseshoes from one stake pit to the opposing stake.
While playing, two players usually compete against each other, however, doubles are also an option. Normally, each player takes a turn to throw their two horseshoes at the same stake, tabulate the score, and then pitch to the opposing stake. One player tosses both horseshoes, while the other player maintains a respectful distance. Consequently, if the horseshoe leans on the stake or is close to it, fewer points are awarded, and points might be invalidated for a variety of reasons. That said, the game is played for a specific number of innings or points.
Horseshoe Official Rules
The rules are all about points, except for a few common-sense guidelines like standing away from the pitch. This is meant to keep everyone safe. Additionally, not talking or making harsh exclamations during a service is a common rule. For beginners, the game can be complicated at first, but here are the official horseshoe rules to provide ample guidance:
Ringer Rule
In every horseshoe game, three points are awarded to ringers. A straight edge must be able to contact both points of the horseshoe to qualify as a ringer. However, if the edge does not touch both sides, it does not qualify.
Leaner Rules
If no ringers are scored, the horseshoe closest to the stake is awarded a single point. This includes leaners or horseshoes that touch the stake but aren’t ringers. To qualify as a leaner, the horseshoe does not have to tilt, and the points are still the same regardless of how near the leaner is to another leaner.
Rules Regarding Proximity to the Stake
The person who throws both horseshoes closer to the stake than their opponent gets two points. More importantly, horseshoes must be within 6 inches of the stake to qualify for the “closest to the stake” points. As such, more skilled players earn more points than their opponents, despite not touching the stake.
Cancellation Rules
One of the game’s unique features is the option to cancel out an opponent’s scores, which allows for strategic play. As such, if one player scores a ringer, the points are voided if the other player follows up with another ringer on the same turn. During one round, the same rule applies to all other equal plays.
As a result, no points are awarded if the two players throw a leaner and a ringer. If one player throws 2 ringers and the other throws 1, the one who throws 2 ringers earns 3 points for that turn. Furthermore, a player receives points for both if he scores a ringer and has the closest horseshoe with his remaining play.
Final Words
Contrary to popular belief, tourists at sunny retirement hotels aren’t the only ones who enjoy horseshoes. This is because backyard horseshoe tournaments have grown in popularity in many countries. Probably, it is because the game is ideal for socializing, friendly competition, and it customizes to individual preferences and needs. That said, pack the horseshoes the next time you need some light entertainment for a housewarming party or camping trip!
