Written by Eric Jackson

It’s that time of the year again.

A few hundred people will gather this weekend for the 14th annual Ringslinger Classic.

The 64-team horseshoe tournament garners anticipation every spring attracting alumni, out-of-towners, even faculty.

Dave Barry, senior mass media major, has attended the tournament annually since his freshman year and has the pleasure of hosting the event this year.

“We’re really proud and honored to take it on,” Barry said. “Me and my roommates have been fairly active on campus and in the community. We’re lucky enough to be social butterflies and know quite a lot of people.”

It officially starts as early as Friday night and the festivities continue Saturday from 8 a.m. to the evening.

Food will be served on Saturday during the contest and competing teams can be distinguished with custom-made t-shirts.

The event has a reputation for not favoring one certain social group but meshing many together as teams face off in the hunt to win the Golden Horseshoe.

This plaque is awarded to the team of two that finishes the tourney victoriously.

The official bracket and times are expected to be finalized today.

Originally called the Blazing Ringslinger, the event has blossomed into a Valdosta tradition that welcomes everyone from children to parents.

Over a decade ago, VSU alum Lester Smith (2002’) created the fun, competitive event.

Smith and his friends haven’t missed one since stepping down and passing the venue on.

The Williams Street Wailers will run the show before they themselves graduate and move away.

“Ringslinger captures the ideals of friendly competition,” Barry said. “To be honest this thing sells itself. I know when I move I’ll come back for it. It’s an event that every year has just been an absolute blast. You only have to go to once to get hooked.”