The South’s favorite tailgate game is being recognized this week in Soda City, better known as Columbia. That’s right, Columbia is hosting the World Cornhole Championship at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Whether you call it cornhole, bags or bean bag toss, this game is a staple at any tailgate, backyard party, or wedding + is fun for any age.
For those who don’t know, cornhole is a game where you toss bean bags onto a wooden platform and earn points along the way – most games shoot for 21 points, 3 points if you get the bag in the hole or 1 point for landing the bag on the board. Oftentimes, there are ‘house rules’ – so these could change depending on where you play + who you play with. If you want to play like the pros, you can find the American Cornhole Organziation’s rules and regs here.
This week, the best players in the world will face off in the World Championship, hosted by the American Cornhole Organization. This is the 15th year of the competition bringing together players, spectators, and families for a week of games, vendor booths + player meet and greets.
Tournament play is reserved for ACO Pros (sorry all you backyard bag tossers) and any player who qualifies by participating in a minimum number of ACO Majors and other tournaments during the season leading up to Worlds. Players compete in singles, doubles, seniors’ singles, women’s singles, junior singles and co-ed divisions.
Play began Tuesday (July 21) with Rounds 1+ 2, and will end with the ACO World Championship Day on July 25. Due to COVID-19, precautions are in place for the health + safety of all. Players and spectators will be required to wear masks, have their temperature checked, maintain 6-feet of social distancing and adhere to the instructions posted throughout the center.
If you can’t make it up to Columbia this week, you can cheer on the cornhole champs from the comfort of your couch. You can watch anytime at AmericanCornhole.com, ACO Facebook Page, ACO YouTube Channel or at WeAreCornhole.com.