Despite extreme heat and work obligations, I try to get outside while the weather is conducive for lawn sports. Interestingly, most lawn sports involve throwing one object really close to another. I really cannot explain this phenomenon, but I’m not sure I’d want to waste our time if I could. Here’s a list of lawn games I think are keen.

Ladder Golf

This game can be played with 2 or 4 players. The object is to get your bolas (two golf balls attached by a thin rope) to stay on a ladder rung. Most sets are easily set up making this game portable. It’s also good for tournament style play. Remember to try to set up in a shaded area. If you have kids I’d recommend some supervision. The temptation to misuse the bolas would be a cause for concern if they’re anything like I was.

Washers

A game of skill played with large washers. Basically, you take turns throwing two washers and landing them either in the box, the cylinder inside the box, or on the rim of the box (automatic win in our books). The box I speak of is usually a square, an octagon, or a rectangle (besides a square). You play to a designated point value to win the game. Usually this game is played with 2 or 4 players. This is another game that is good for a tournament style event. I’d recommend keeping dogs away from the playing area. They have tendency to try to eat washers or walk off with the box… good dog.

Bocce

This is one of my favorites. You can either play in a Bocce court or cross-country style, called Open Bocce. You can play with 2 to 4 players (or more if you buy additional sets with varying patterns and colors). If you play in a Bocce court, one person toss the smaller ball, called a Jack or Pallino, then turns are taken to throw the larger bocce balls close to the Jack. The first person or team to reach a designated amount of points wins. If you play near a street be aware of sewer drains in the street, they might consume your Jack or bocce balls if you have a wild throw.

Badminton

Badminton is probably is the most physically demanding game on this list if you let it be. This is a good 2 or 4 player game that requires some time to setup. However, the setup time is worth it. Make sure to have some spare shuttles (or birdie) in case you get one stuck in a tree or on a roof. Unfortunately, if you become really good you can no longer play Badminton in the Olympics starting in 2012. Looks like I’ll have to find a professional circuit.

Horseshoes

I really don’t play Horseshoes too often, but I had to include it because it is a classic and I really do like playing it when I get the chance. Basically, you toss horseshoes in an attempt to land them near or, better yet, around a stake. You can play with 2 or 4 players. When playing make sure you only set up one stake, and be sure no one is near it when tossing. I prefer playing in a sand court over a yard mostly due to renegade horseshoes that hurt if you catch one with your ankle or shin even if you’re not really close to the stake.

Despite some of the inherent dangers to some of the games I mentioned, fun will be had by all once you break these gems out. Enjoy the summer!

Rx by,

Dr. M. CLK