Cornhole among competitions at this weekend's Pumpkin Fest

By: Bethany Fuller | Mooresville Tribune
Published: November 06, 2009

The newest event to hit Crossroads Pumpkin Fest is the Cornhole Tournament.

For those scratching their heads and wondering what the game is and how to play, the R&L talked to cornhole or corn toss player Stephen Cook about the ins and outs.

Just think of it as horseshoes, but with corn bags.

How to play:

Can be played in singles or doubles

Two teams stand next to wooden platforms with holes cut in them with sets of four bean bags on either side.

The platforms are 27 feet apart.

In doubles, team partners face each other from opposite ends.

Opponents alternate until all eight bags are played in an inning or round.

Foul bags must be removed from the platform prior to the continuation of play.

Rounds are scored once all the corn bags are tossed.

The highest scoring team from the previous throw starts the next inning.

First team to 21 points wins

Scoring

Corn Bag In-The-Hole – 3 points

A corn bag in-the-hole is thrown through the hole in the cornhole platform or otherwise comes to rest inside the cornhole platform. Bags knocked in by another player or nature also count.

Corn Bag In-The-Count or on the board- 1 point

A bag that lands with any part resting on the platform. It can not touch the ground.

Corn Bag Out-Of-The-Count – 0 points

A bag that lands anywhere except the platform or the hole. If a bag touches the ground at all, then no points are awarded.

History:

According to Cornhole.com, the first documented game was played on the west side of Cincinnati, where it became a popular community and bar game.

It became a popular tailgating diversion at Cincinnati Bengals' games. Fans from all over saw the games and it spread around the country.

Where to sign up:

The competition is open to anyone who wants to play. Registration is $50 per two-person team and pre-registration is required. Call (704) 878-3436. The deadline is Friday.

Information from the American Cornhole Association, Cornhole.com and Cook.

Highlights of the 2009 Festival:

Festival Kid Zone

Games, Rides and Activities such as Pumpkin Bowling, Pumpkin Painting and even Pumpkin Smashing

Over 50 Art and Craft Exhibitors

A Variety of Tantalizing Food Booths

Three Entertainment Stages

Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest

YMCA Pumpkin Fest 5K Race & Fun Run/Walk

WSIC Biggest Pumpkin Contest

Skateboard Races on Court Street