Equipment:

• Horseshoes: Two horseshoes per player, typically made of metal and designed for tossing.

• Stakes: Two stakes, each placed at opposite ends of the playing area.

• Pitching Box: A designated area behind each stake from which players throw their horseshoes.
  

Setup:

1. Set Up the Stakes:

   • Place the stakes in the ground at opposite ends of the playing area, with a distance of 40 feet between them.

   • Ensure the stakes are firmly anchored and protrude from the ground at a slight angle.

2. Mark the Pitching Boxes:

   • Designate a pitching box behind each stake, measuring 6 feet by 6 feet, where players stand to throw their horseshoes.

   • Mark the front edge of each pitching box with a line or marker.
     

Gameplay:

1. Starting the Game:

   • A coin toss or another method is used to determine which player or team throws first.

   • The first player or team takes turns throwing both of their horseshoes toward the opposite stake.

2. Throwing Horseshoes:

   • Players stand in their respective pitching boxes and take turns throwing their horseshoes toward the opposite stake.

   • Players may throw underhand or overhand, aiming to land the horseshoes around the stake.

3. Scoring Points:

   • Points are scored based on the proximity of the horseshoes to the stake:

     • Ringer: A horseshoe that completely encircles the stake earns 3 points.

     • Leaner: A horseshoe that leans against the stake without encircling it earns 1 point.

     • Closest: If no horseshoe lands as a ringer or leaner, the closest horseshoe to the stake earns 1 point.

4. Counting Points:

   • After all horseshoes have been thrown, the player or team with the closest horseshoe(s) scores points for each ringer, leaner, or closest horseshoe.

   • Only one player or team can score points per round.

5. Ending the Round:

   • The round ends once all players or teams have thrown their horseshoes.

   • Players or teams switch sides and continue playing rounds until a predetermined number of points is reached (usually 21).
     

Additional Rules and Tips:

• Fair Play: Maintain sportsmanship and adhere to the rules throughout the game.

• Safety: Avoid throwing horseshoes when other players are in close proximity to the pitching boxes.

• Etiquette: Respect opponents and refrain from distracting or disrupting their throws.

• Practice: Regular practice improves throwing accuracy and consistency.