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Polish Horseshoe Rules

The game officially called "Polish Horseshoes," but also called "Hillbilly Horseshoes," requires very little equipment, preparation or space. The idea of the game seems simple--throw metal washers into holes on a wooden board--but is actually quite challenging. Strategy is also involved, since one must attempt to get just enough points to win without overshooting their mark. The rules are straightforward, so even young children can enjoy the game.

Equipment Rules
- Two Polish Horseshoe boards must be placed eight feet apart, parallel to each other. The end of the board that contains three holes should be placed in the same direction for both boards. Each team must have six washers, each washer identical in size and weight.
Gameplay Rules
- Only one person may be standing on the board at any given time. Each team member will stand on the non-hole end of one board and attempt to throw the washer into one of the holes on the other board eight feet away. Only one washer per team member may be thrown in a turn; teams switch off. The number of games to be played before determining a total score is up to the players.
Scoring Rules
- Your goal is to be the first to achieve exactly 21 points by the time all washers have been thrown. Each hole has a different point value: the small hole is 5, the medium hole is 3, and the large hole is 1.
  
  If a team ends up with more than 21 points at the end of the game, they must subtract the extra points from their previous game&'s score. For example, if a team gets 12 points in one game and 24 in the next, 3 points would be subtracted from the first game, leaving that team with a total of 31 points rather than 36.
  
  If an opposing team&'s washer falls into a hole already containing your washer, your team&'s points get wiped out, starting you at 0 points with your next throw.

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