Hobbies And Interests
Traditional American Horseshoe Pitching
The original version of the game horseshoes is played by two participants; each aiming to be the first to achieve 21 points. Two metal stakes are implanted in the ground with a 3-foot square marking the ground. This is called the "pit" and sand is added to absorb the landing of the horseshoes. Around the pit a 6 feet by 3 feet rectangle marks the pitching box. Beyond one of long ends of each of the pitching boxes two lines are marked that the players must stand behind when throwing the horseshoes. Points are scored by competing to land your horseshoe closer to the metal stake than your opponent.
Kid's Horseshoe Game
An alternative to tossing heavy metal horseshoes, the child-friendly rendition of the traditional horseshoe game is safe and simple for young kids to play. Divide children into two teams, or one-on-one and have each team make light weight horseshoes by gluing or taping three Popsicle sticks together in a 'U' shape. Fill two large soda bottles with sand or gravel for weight. Have children toss their horseshoes at the soda bottles following similar rules to the traditional game.
Online Horseshoe Game
Pedro's Horseshoes is a free online video horseshoe game offered by BoysLife.org. The game rules are nearly identical to the traditional horseshoe game. A virtual photo of a grass horseshoe playing pit is used as a game board. While playing against a horse-like cartoon character, Pedro, you can earn points by tossing animated horseshoes at a virtual stake. Using your mouse and two on-screen bars, you can choose how hard and from which angle to pitch your horseshoes. Players choose from easy, medium and hard difficulty levels.