Two-player teams compete for grills, rafts, and bikes at today’s Horseshoe Tournament at the Kelleys Island Wine Company. The fifth-annual tourney first pairs players in a single elimination round. The winners then face off at five sanctioned pits, where they try to wrap horseshoes around stakes 48 feet away. “There are those who don’t play well, but they just want to have fun for the day,” says co-owner Robby Zettler. “And there are some people who are really good, but they get knocked out in the first round.” During the competition, spectators can roam the winery’s three-acre spread, which includes a deli, bar, and pavilion. You can munch on bratwurst sandwiches and chug beer. You can also sample homemade wine at hourly tastings. Plus, Zettler will raffle off sweatshirts, tank tops, and wine glasses commemorating the winery’s 25th anniversary. Money from tournament fees and raffle ticket sales go toward the Make-a-Wish Foundation. “Even if you think you’re no good at horseshoes, what do you have to lose?” she asks. “You throw in 15 bucks for a good cause and have a lot of fun.”
Sun., June 24, noon
This article appears in Jun 20-26, 2007.