Horseshoes with Ringo Rings
A school-friendly version of horseshoes: in pairs, students toss rubber rings to ring a pole set in a cone at the far end of the court. It builds accuracy, a flat ring spin, and fair scoring habits.
How to play
- Set up 6 courts with two cones 16 feet apart (13 feet for ages 8-9), each holding an upright pole. Groups of 4: two teams of two, with one partner at each end (2 min).
- Teach the toss: hold the ring by the edge, swing underhand, and release with a flat spin, like a plate sliding across a table.
- The two players at one end toss 2 rings each, alternating, at the far pole; then the players at the other end toss them back.
- A ringer is 3 points; a ring within a hand span is 1 point. Only the team with the closest ring scores, and ringers from opposing teams cancel.
- Games go to 11 points or 5 min: winners move one court right and the other team one court left. Play 3 games.
Rules
- Nobody walks to the pole until all 4 rings are tossed.
- Always toss underhand from behind the cone.
- Hand the rings back; never throw them.
Variations
Easier
Pole at 10 feet, and any ring touching it scores 1 point.
Standard
Pole at 16 feet, 2 rings per player, and games to 11.
Harder
Pole at 23 feet plus a second pole behind it that scores double.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: toss seated from 10 feet while a partner returns the rings.
- Students with autism: keep the same partner and signal each court change with a gesture.
- Skill level: students who ring easily toss their second ring with the non-dominant hand.
Learning goals
- Toss a ring with a flat spin while controlling direction and distance.
- Apply cancellation scoring fairly.
- Cooperate with a partner on turns and scorekeeping.
Equipment for a class of 25
- Ringo rings: 24
- poles: 12
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
The most common mistake is tossing the ring on its edge. Seat the pole firmly so it does not tip on impact.
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