Introduction:
Horse Putt is a fun yet competitive backyard game born from the creativity of three individuals in northwest Ohio in 2001. The game offers a low-entry barrier, ensuring everyone can join in the fun while still bringing a competitive edge to the table.
Objective:
The primary goal is to be the first player or team to score 21 points by the end of a round. However, a victory requires a lead of at least 2 points. Matches are played best out of three.
Starting the Game:
To decide the first player or team, a disc is flipped. The opposing player or team calls heads or tails while the disc is airborne. The winning side can opt either to throw first or select a side for the game. Players should factor in environmental elements like wind and sunlight, which can influence the game's outcome, when making their choice.
Equipment Needed:
- 3 Discgolf discs per player (Putters are recommended).
- 2 Plastic outdoor chairs equipped with arms.
Game Setup:
Position the chairs to face each other, ensuring a distance of 18.3M (20 yards) between them.
Scoring System:
- 1 Point: If any part of the disc ends within 21cm (8.26772”) of any section of the chair.
- 3 Points (Leaner): For discs leaning on a chair with a minimum of 5cm (2”) clearance between one side of the disc and the ground.
- 5 Points (Seater): If a disc settles in the chair's seat.
At the end of each round, calculate the points earned by each team. The team with the higher score will receive the difference in points between the two teams.
Example: If Team A scores 6 points and Team B scores 8 points in a round, Team B will be awarded 2 points for that round.
Important: If a chair topples during a round, players can no longer score seaters. However, leaners and single points remain valid.
Singles Play:
- The initial thrower releases a disc from behind their chair.
- The opposing player then throws their disc following the same regulations.
- This alternating pattern continues until all players have thrown their three discs, concluding the round.
- Points for that round are then tallied.
- The chair is reset, and the player with the highest cumulative score throws first.
- Players continue to alternate sides until a winner emerges.
Note: In singles play, participant numbers can range from 2 to 10. Remember, more players can mean a more frenzied game!
Team Play:
Team play rules echo those of singles play with minor differences:
- Players remain on their chosen side throughout the game.
- Team members share a set of three discs.
Horse Putt History & Lore:
While the lore of Horse Putt continues to evolve, one tradition remains constant: players who achieve a seater must autograph the chair, leaving their mark on the game's history.