[sanddrag]

I like the idea of using tires for a gamepiece. The shape would make them easy to put on a pole or something, but the weight would make it very challenging to maniupluate. I'm thinking along the lines of something like a small car spare tire or a small trailer tire. Also, they are very durable. Almost no chance of breaking. But they might be a little pricey. Used or reject tires maybe?

Or maybe part of the playing surface can be covered in tires like this http://www.eddabney.com/confidence_c.../Dan_tires.jpg but no horse and smaller tires.