 Disc golf is a lot like traditional "ball" golf, except players use specially made plastic flying golf discs instead of balls and clubs, and throw them for 'par' at an above-ground target instead of a hole in the ground. There are different types of golf discs used for different purposes, much like ball golfers use different clubs.
The object of the game is to throw a golf disc into the target, a basket (a steel basket over which chains hang), in the fewest number of throws. The player begins by 'driving' from a designated tee area and continues toward the target, throwing each consecutive shot from the spot where the previous throw has landed. Finally, a successful 'putt' sends the disc into the disc golf basket. The most satisfying sound a disc golfer can hear is the 'ching!' of a disc crashing the chains before dropping into the basket.
Most disc golf courses consist of 9, 18 or 24 holes. Hole lengths vary, but generally fall between 150 and 500 feet each. Trees, shrubbery, water and terrain changes offer plenty of hazards to avoid, and it becomes very possible to lose a disc in areas with thick growth, tall trees or (SPLASH!) deep water. Fortunately, at retail prices between $6 and $15, lost discs are more easily replaced than your typical nine-iron.
In todays economy, it's no surprise that disc golf is seeing a rise in popularity. Disc golf offers many of the same pleasures as ball golf, without the big expense. Disc golf offers fresh air in a beautiful landscape, the camaraderie of friends, and the challenge and excitement of combining personal skill and speed to project an object toward a target. I n addition, disc golfers can feel better about themselves and their environment, knowing that chemical pollutants aren't being used to keep their playing fields looking good, nor do acres of trees need to be clear-cut or wetlands filled in, as is sometimes the case for too many ball golf courses. And perhaps best of all, disc golf is inexpensive. The only equipment you need is a flying disc, and most disc golf courses are located in municipal parks, which admit players for free or charge a minimal fee for daily or yearly access. |
