"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee Horseshoe Pitch Competition

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Are you a ringer at pitching horseshoes? If so, then the Cherokee Nation’s Horseshoe Pitch is the place for you. The competition will be held on Friday, August 31 and Saturday, September 1, at 1 p.m., west of the Cherokee Nation complex. The Horseshoe Pitch is being held in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday.

“This competition is a lot of fun,” said Jody Reese, event coordinator. “I encourage anyone who loves to throw horseshoes to come out and enter.”

The cost to enter is $5 and should be played at the time of the tournament.

There will be a both a men’s and women’s division. In the Men's division participants may draw for a partner, bring a partner or play as a single. In the Women's division players will draw for partners. The Cherokee Nation will provide horseshoe. However, Participants have the option of using their own shoes if they choose to.

Stakes will be placed 40 feet apart. Ringers are worth five points and leaners are worth three points. There will be no skunks. The first team to reach twenty-one points will be the winner of the game.

Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the 169 years of rich history the Cherokee Nation has in what is now Oklahoma, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For more information contact Jody Reese, phone: 918-822-2428.