Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Disc Golf is for Any Age or Fitness Level


I played disc golf for the first time this morning. It was a lot of fun and much more suited to cold weather than 'club golf'. Another plus is that it is free and, being a fast-growing sport, can be found in many public parks around the country. It is also much easier to bring a set of disc clubs in your carry-on bag than lugging golf clubs through the airport. Click on PDGA Course Directory to find a course in your area. You can use your zip code, city, or state. This is a good site if you are planning to travel and want to find a course to relieve some stress while on business or some good, free family fun on vacation.

I was surprised to find that the game, now at a high peak of popularity, had its first American Flying Disc Open in 1974 in Rochester, New York. According to the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), the origin of the game cannot be determined but "the first known instance of anyone playing golf with a flying disc occurred in Vancouver BC in 1926".  Players throw a disc (it looks much like a frisbee) toward a basket with chains. The disc hits the chain and then drops down into the basket. Like the game of golf, players take turns throwing their disc as they get closer to the basket. You can play with just one or several different ones. There is even a disc putter to sink it in when you are close to the basket.

A set of  beginner discs can be bought here online or found in stores in your area. Some local community centers have some that can be checked out for use. As disc players get better at the sport, they learn what type works best for their style. Personally, I am already hooked and plan to continue. My daughter and son-in-law leave their discs in their car ready to go when the mood strikes. I'm sure I'll be doing the same. I'm very excited that I have found something I can play with friends my own age, my children, and my grandchildren. Happy golfing!

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