Have You Every Played Disc Golf?

I was out for dinner last week with several friends of Rons, and we started talking about what we do for exercise. Steve and Nancy both have full time jobs, and they told me that in their off time, they love to play disc golf. Actually, Steve called it Frisbee golf, but the official name is disc golf. I'd never heard of it, and was anxious to find out more about. After Steve and Nancy described it I came home and researched it further. Now I can't wait to try it.

This is for everyone who can no longer play regular golf because of back, neck or shoulder injuries, or just for people who want to get out, get some exercise, and have a good time. If you can walk and throw a Frisbee, you can play disc golf. Best of all, except for buying a few discs to get started (just like a few golf clubs) it's usually free. 85% of all the courses are absolutely free, and the ones you do pay for are something like $3.

Modern disc golf began in the 1960's, when it seems to have been invented in many places and by many people independently. Three of the best-known figures in disc golf are George Sappenfield, who called the game "Basket Frisbee", "Steady Ed" Headrick, who introduced the first formal disc golf target with chains and a basket, and Dave Dunipace, who invented the disc. The first disc golf association was formed in 1975. The sport has grown at a rate of 12-15% annually. There are nearly 3000 courses in the US. The game is played in more than 40 countries.

Initially, the sport was played with Frisbees. George Sappenfield, a recreation counselor for kids, contacted Wham-O, creator of the Frisbee, with help for an event which became disc golf. Later on Steady Ed Headrick designed and installed the first standarized target course in La Canada Flintridge, California. Ed worked at Wham-O, and is credited with pioneering the modern era of disc sports. Just like golf clubs, there are many different discs used in the game, each used for a differnt purpose.

The game is played almost exactly like golf. You tee off, by throwing your "driver" disc in the vacinity of the hole. Then you walk to your disc, and throw your next one, until you get your disc in the "hole". The hole is actually like a basketball hoop. The rules of the game are similar to regular golf, but you don't need any advanced instruction. You can just go out and play.

Steve and Nancy just got back from Las Vegas where they played in a disc golf tournament. Who knew these things even existed? I certaintly didn't, but I'm glad I learned about the sport and can't wait to try it. There are several courses in the San Diego, including one in San Marcos and one near Balboa Park. What a great way to get some exercise and have fun.