The Olympics of Backyard Games

It's mid-summer and we thought, why not take the time to appreciate the essence of of it all? Yup, think about the perfect companion to those BBQ's, family gatherings, or those times when you are just flat out getting sloshed. We are talking about the forgotten "Backyard" Sports. You may see these games on sale at your local Target and do a double take, but usually you just pass them by.

Well, today we are asking they no longer be left on that shelf in the garage. And that's why we've created the Olympics of Backyard Sports. Shit, if we take the time to watch fishing, women's softball and/or poker...why would we not watch an event like this? Aren't these really indeed valuable fabrics of our society? Don't answer that.

Anyhow, we ask that you lather yourself up for some drinking and games. Here we go with our listing of the events. As always...your comments and event ideas, are welcomed below. Follow me...

Badminton - It's the original backyard game and we like to consider ourselves traditionalists, so here is our nod to Badminton. It's pretty basic, you set up a net just like volleyball. It's Tennis/Ping-Pong for the backyard if you will, except you hit a birdie (see photo) back and forth until someone can't get it over the net. For fuck sakes...you know that...do I really have to explain this game?

Lawn Darts (a.k.a Jarts) - Who needs a lawn? You can play Jarts in the sand if you so desire. All you need is a couple of targets (rings) and you aim darts at the target. Set the point structure and fire away. Not exactly, the most in-depth game on the shelves, but does that matter?

Lasso Golf (a.k.a Hillbilly Horseshoes) - This is the newest yard game sweeping the nation, as it's advertised. And take my word for it, they are dead on...it's addicting. The object of the game is to "lasso" a set of rubber golf balls (separated by a string) onto a ladder like structure strategically placed about 8-10 paces away. Fuck, that's confusing...see the picture below for a better understanding.
Disc Golf - Please remind yourself to NEVER associate the word "frisbee" with this sport. Both parties involved have longed to separate the entities. Although widely considered as a sport invented for hippies, it offers a cheaper and more relaxing alternative to regular golf. On the course you can actually smoke pot legally (I think). And check this out...they've got their own association. This shit is no joke; I love this game and a mandatory round is in order for these Olympics. Cornhole (a.k.a Bean Bag Toss) - For the name alone it makes the cut. This is the type of game that can be of the homemade variety. Just get a big piece of wood panel, cut a hole in it and then throw bean bags at the hole. Hence, the game was born after about 15 beers...meaning it's perfect for these Olympics.Bocce Ball - Come on...we all know this one. It's all about who can get their balls the closest to the Pallina. You can knock around the opponents balls all you'd like.

Whiffle Ball - Of the more traditional variety, but after a few beers it can always get interesting. The trick is do you play pitcher's mound is out or not? Also, if I may give a little recommendation to all of the 12 and under readers, go to home depot and buy a big green tarp to build a Green Monster. You will thank me.

Horseshoes - Essential.

Over the Line - The final and most prestigious event. This game was invented on the beautiful beaches of San Diego, CA. And if you want to see "ass and titties" well then you need to attend the annual tournament held every year at Fiesta Island in San Diego. It is what it is...a game that I'm not going to explain, read about it here.

Honorable Mention: Croquet, but we just felt there can't be a game where it's fitting to drink wine while you play.