Get the Family Together for Some Disc Golf
by Theresa Carpine1/14/2009 3:08:11 PM
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What’s a great sport that the whole family can play, no matter their level of skill? Disc golf. Or Frisbee golf. Or frolf. No matter what you call it, disc golf is a fun way to spend time together with friends and family while getting some exercise.
There are some great resources and places to play this sport in Whatcom County.As the name implies, this game combines the skills of playing Frisbee with the rules of golf. Like the origin of the Frisbee itself, there’s no official record of when and where the very first game of disc golf was played. Its popularity gained momentum in the 1970s, and around the same time, the Professional Disc Golf Association was created to oversee and guide the rapid growth of the sport and organize tournaments.
Instead of playing with clubs and a ball, disc golf is played with flying discs (usually smaller in size than traditional Frisbees). The object is to complete each “hole” in the fewest throws. In disc golf, the target is usually an elevated metal basket, often called a Pole Hole®. Just like golf, different holes on the course have varying levels of difficulty based on terrain and other obstacles, like trees and shrubs.
Playing disc golf is also decidedly cheaper than traditional golf. Compared to the cost of clubs and tee times, disc golf is practically free. You can purchase discs online, or in person at Joe’s Sports, Outdoor & More. Also, you don’t have to reserve a time to play since most courses are located in public parks.
There are three disc golf courses in Whatcom County (two with baskets and one with hoola hoop targets). Whatcom Disc Golf Club Board Member Patrick Sullivan recommended the nine-hole course at Cornwall Park as a great place to start for beginners and families. “The course is user- and stroller-friendly with short holes,” Patrick explained in an email interview.
The Whatcom Disc Golf Club has been operating since 2004 and “is dedicated to strengthening the community by providing resources for the hosting of disc golf tournaments and leagues, establishing and preserving local disc golf courses and participating in activities aimed to educate and encourage players of all ages and skill levels” (mission statement from WDGC website). Membership is free and benefits include discounts in tournaments fees and occasional lunches for members.
If you and your family are interested in learning, Patrick recommends reading the official PDGA Rules or playing with someone that is already familiar with the game.
“WDGC members are also more than happy to teach the rules during our many monthly events,” he said. “Disc Golf is a great sport. Anyone can play; young, old, expert, or novice. It’s a great way to get exercise, fresh air and challenge yourself.”
If you are already a disc golf enthusiast, consider volunteering with the club to help plan and organize tournaments. Check out Whatcom Disc Golf Club for contact information and details about upcoming disc golf events.