The game of disc golf shares many rules and attributes with its counterpart played with drivers and irons. It also offers much of the same sort of appeal. Both games rely on single-player skill and accuracy, and both offer participants the added benefit of enjoying nature and the outdoors. Because of its low-impact nature, disc golf is a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and both genders. Unlike more rigorous sports like basketball, disc golf can be played by individuals well past the age of 50, and just as in the traditional game of golf, some of the best players are seniors. The kind of exercise you can expect from a round of disc golf is approximately equal to what you might get by (predictably) golfing 18 holes, or by taking a brisk two-hour walk or light hiking excursion. One advantage that disc golf offers over regular golf is that it doesn't require an actual golf course. Though there are now numerous disc-golf courses in parks and natural settings throughout the country, and more being added all the time, players can devise a makeshift course anywhere there are wide-open spaces and objects that can be used to double as targets. Water hazards, variations in terrain, trees and other natural obstacles add challenge to the game, just as they do on traditional fairways. Disc golf is played with plastic discs -- commonly referred to by the ubiquitous trade-name FrisbeeB) -- that come in a variety of weights and constructions for specific types of shots. Just as in regular golf, players tee off or drive from a set location (figure A) and then try to reach a specified target or "hole" using the least number of shots. Shots made at a short distance from the target are referred to as putts. As players traverse an entire course, playing a number of holes, the player who makes the fewest strokes (i.e., throws) over the course of the game is the winner. As in golf, gentlemen's rules apply when it comes to determining lie, calling for penalty strokes, etc. Most established courses consist of 18 holes, although there are nine- and 27-hole courses as well. Each target (i.e., hole) on established courses consists of a metal pole with a basket attached to catch the disc when a player "sinks" a shot (figure B). Loops of suspended chain-links keep discs from bouncing clear of the basket when they come in contact with the pole. Disc golf is a relatively new sport, having been invented in 1969, but its popularity has grown dramatically. In 1975 the first disc-golf course was established in Pasadena, California. Today there are disc-golf courses in many states, as well as disc-golf tournaments, local and national organizations and even a hall of fame. One of the best ways to find out about disc-golf organizations and facilities in your area is by searching on the internet. A quick search for "disc golf" on most search engines will bring up a variety of sites. With a little exploring, you're likely to find a wealth of information on rules and game-play as well as organizations in your area that can provide you with information on courses, tournaments and how to meet other players.
DIY Family Sports fun fact : Though sport involving flying discs (in the form of the discus) has been around for centuries, the more familiar recreational activity involves lightweight plastic discs constructed so that they can be thrown with ease and seem to float through the air. There are various stories about the origin of the name "Frisbee." By one account, in the year 1827 Elihu Frisbie took offense to collection plates being passed during chapel assemblies at Yale University. He displayed his disapproval by tossing one of the plates, "frisbee-style" into the college quad.
RESOURCES :
discgolf.com
"Your link to disc golf on the Web."
Web site: www.discgolf.com
Professional Disc Golf Association
Web site: http://pdga.com
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