Ladder toss

Ladder toss, also known as ladder golf, ladder ball, or ladder game, is a lawn game played by throwing bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a ladder. The game is typically played in teams, with the objective of wrapping the bolas around the rungs of the ladder.

History

The origins of ladder toss are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by similar games played by cowboys and other outdoor enthusiasts. The game gained popularity in the United States in the early 2000s and has since become a common fixture at backyard gatherings, tailgating events, and beach outings.

Equipment

The equipment required for ladder toss includes:

• A ladder structure, usually consisting of three rungs.
• Bolas, which are made by connecting two balls with a piece of string.

The ladder is typically made of PVC pipe, wood, or metal, and the bolas are often made of plastic or rubber balls connected by a nylon rope.

Rules

The basic rules of ladder toss are as follows:

• The game is played with two or more players or teams.
• Players take turns throwing three bolas each.
• The objective is to wrap the bolas around the rungs of the ladder.
• The top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is worth 2 points, and the bottom rung is worth 1 point.
• The first player or team to reach exactly 21 points wins the game.

Scoring

Points are scored based on where the bolas land on the ladder:

• Top rung: 3 points
• Middle rung: 2 points
• Bottom rung: 1 point

If a player exceeds 21 points, their score is reduced by the number of points scored in that round.

Strategy

Successful ladder toss players often develop strategies to improve their accuracy and consistency. Some common strategies include:

• Practicing different throwing techniques to achieve the desired spin and trajectory.
• Aiming for specific rungs based on the current score and the opponent's position.
• Adjusting the throwing distance and angle based on wind conditions and other environmental factors.

Variations

There are several variations of ladder toss, including:

• Playing with different point values for each rung.
• Using different types of bolas, such as heavier or lighter balls.
• Modifying the ladder structure to include more or fewer rungs.

Popularity

Ladder toss has become a popular game for social gatherings and is often included in outdoor games collections. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a versatile and inclusive activity.

See also

• Cornhole
• Horseshoes
• Bocce
• Frisbee