Toss a malasada-size metal washer into a puka nearly double that in diameter. How hard could it be?
More challenging than playing sand volleyball, according to Katie Speiler. But the Hawaii junior who earned AVCA All-American honors last season will have experience on her side when she competes in Sunday’s second Portuguese Horseshoes Tournament, a fundraiser for the Rainbow Wahine sand volleyball team.
"It’s a challenge," said Spieler, who teamed with Nikki Taylor last season in helping Hawaii finish tied for third nationally. "I haven’t mastered the strategy but it’s fun."
SANDBOWS FUNDRAISER
Portuguese horseshoes tournament
>> Where: Hunakai Park, Kahala
>> When: 2:30-6 p.m. Sunday, weather permitting
>> Make-up date: Nov. 2
>> Cost: Individual: $125; two-player team: $200; cheer squad: $50 Includes heavy pupu and beverages
>> Call: 394-7640
>> Online: hawaiiathletics.com |
Also known as the Hawaiian Washers game — reflecting the urban legend that it was created by Pearl Harbor shipyard workers — two-person teams alternate tossing washers 2.5-inches in diameter at a wooden box with a 5-inch hole cut out from a distance of around 20 feet. The goal is to get as many washers into the hole per inning with points awarded much as in horseshoes for "ringers" and nearest the hole.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, weather permitting. Head coach Scott Wong said conditions will be monitored Thursday before making a final decision.
"We want it to be safe and do it right," he said adding that updated info will be up at the UH website hawaiiathletics.com.
The event begins with pool play that leads to bracket play, culminating in championship teams being crowned at the various levels. There are divisions for beginners and advanced players or, as UH assistant sand coach Michelle Meyer said, "expert and not-too expert."
"Last year, our girls were there early to throw but they were terrible," she said. "Then when it came time to play it was, in the hole, in the hole, in the hole. They were incredible. I don’t know how in the world that happened.
"It’s a fun event. Good food, good times in a beautiful park."
Last year’s event raised $50,000, helped by a $25,000 matching donation. This year, two sponsors who wish to remain anonymous have put up $35,000 in matching funds with the goal of $70,000.
"The funds help us with our travel costs and being able to bring teams to Hawaii," Wong said. "Last year, we were able to bring over six teams and we want to continue to do that."
