Disc Golf is a hybrid sport that mixes the rules of Golf with the technique of flying disc sports such as Ultimate Frisbee.
This relatively modern sport is quickly becoming a popular activity amongst families and friendship groups. The low intensity but high skill level makes Disc Golf easy to learn but difficult to master.
This article will explain the basics of Disc Golf and inform you on how to get involved with this ever growing sport.
History
The history books are unclear as to when the idea of Disc Golf first emerged. Some reports suggest that the sport first appeared in 1920’s Canada, where Ronald Gibson and his friends threw tin lids into circles drawn into the sand.
The more familiar version is considered to have been created by Wham-O employee ‘Steady’ Ed Headrick in 1966. He is also accredited with creating both the first frisbee and target used in Disc Golf.
Headrick’s inventions were promoted by George Sappenfield and Kevin Donnely, originally encouraging children to play with Golf with frisbees on the playground. In 1968, Sappenfield and Headrick would meet and configure a plan to attract more players.
After several years of little progression, a separate group from Rochester, NY converted their 1974 City of Rochester Disc Golf Championship into a national tournament. The tournament was renamed to the American Flying Disc Open (AFDO).
This event kickstarted the Disc Golf movement. 1975 saw Headrick create the first course at Oak Grove Park in California. In the following year, he would form the Disc Golf Association (DGA) and Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA).
Disc Golf’s growth paralleled another flying disc sport, Ultimate Frisbee. Because of this, many Ultimate players were naturally attracted to the idea of playing Disc Golf. The growth in both sports led to more courses being built across the US.
As the sport grew, the power began to shift. ‘Steady’ Ed Headrick had been the only man in charge for many years. However, a few unpopular decisions led to many losing patience with the ‘Godfather of Disc Golf’.
As a result, the 1984 Disc Golf Championships saw Ed hand over control of the PDGA to Ted Smethers and a group of players. This transition led to the formation of a constitution, elections, and a player ratings system.
A steady growth has led to the sport becoming more established in the US and internationally. This popularity convinced the IOC to grant full recognition to WFDF sports, including Disc Golf.
How To Play
Golfers will find the rules and objectives of Disc Golf very familiar. The two sports are almost identical with the main difference being that one uses a club and ball whilst the other uses discs.
The objective of Disc Golf is to get the disc into the hole in the fewest number of strokes. 1 throw is counted as a stroke. Each course is made up of either 9 or 18 holes. Once the course is completed, the total number of strokes are added together and the player with the lowest overall score wins.
Holes in Disc Golf are not the same as regular Golf. The holes invented by ‘Steady’ Ed Headrick are made up of a pole that holds up a basket with chains attached to the inside of the basket.
When playing, there are specific rules and etiquette that should be followed. Each hole starts at the tee area. The first stroke must be thrown within or behind this area. After teeing off, players must throw their disc from the spot it landed. This is called the lie and is often marked by a mini disc to ensure players stay behind the mark.
Throwing order is determined by the number of strokes from the previous hole. The player with the fewest strokes on the previous hole will go first and the order continues from there. For example, a player who completed the last hole in 3 strokes will throw before a player who completed it in 4 strokes.
Run ups are allowed in Disc Golf. The only area that run ups are not allowed is within 10 metres of the target.
Just like Golf courses, Disc Golf courses will have areas that are considered Out of Bounds. If a disc lands in this area, players will receive a +1 stroke penalty. However, players are allowed to bring the disc back into bounds for their next throw.
A slightly unique rule used in Disc Golf is the mandatories or ‘Mando’ rule. This rule uses select objects on the course such as trees or poles to direct throws through a specific path. Mandos will have an arrow showing which side the disc must pass through. If the disc passes the Mando on the wrong side, the player has to either attempt the stroke again, or take a +1 penalty.
Disc Golf etiquette encourages players to be respectful of both their opposition and their surroundings. These conventions include remaining quiet when others are throwing, avoid damaging or moving natural obstacles such as trees or branches, and making sure an area is clear before throwing.
These explanations emphasise the comparison between Disc Golf and traditional Golf. However, this is not where the comparisons finish.
Disc Types
An important element of the sport of Disc Golf is obviously the discs. There are a variety of discs available that differ in range, flight path, weight, shape, and size.
The categories for discs are heavily inspired by the different types of clubs used in disc golf. There are 4 categories of discs available. These categories are putters, mid-ranges, fairway drivers, and distance drivers.
Distance drivers provide players with the greatest distance. Because of this, they are often used on the tee shots. Although these discs theoretically provide the greatest distance, the speed required to make this disc fly properly is very high, meaning they are not suitable for beginners or younger players.
Fairway drivers are slower than distance drivers, resulting in less distance. However, the slower speed required makes these drivers easier to control which helps on courses that are narrow or difficult to navigate.
Furthermore, the slower speed makes it an ideal long-range choice for less experienced players.
Mid-Range discs arguably offer the most versatile option for players to use. These discs are all-rounders that can be used for almost every shot. This is the first disc that most players will buy after a few rounds.
Finally, putters are used for shorter distances and putting. This will be the final disc used for each hole. The slow speed makes putters very predictable and easy to control. Therefore, putters are great discs for beginners.
Each category has a variety of models that players can add to their bag. Each model of disc has unique attributes that make it more suitable for certain type of throws or even certain players. These characteristics are assessed and placed into a rating system to inform players how the disc will act on the course.
Credit: innovadiscs.com
This system is known as ‘Flight Numbers’. Flight Numbers splits the characteristics of a disc into 4 distinct categories: Speed, Glide, Turn, and Fade. In short, speed refers to the rate that a disc can travel in the air, glide measures a disc’s ability to stay in the air, turn rates a disc’s tendency to go right at the beginning of the flight, and fade refers to a disc’s tendency to turn left at the end of the flight. Note: These descriptions are based off of a right-handed backhand throw.
There are a few factors that can manipulate the flight behaviours of a disc. The main factor is the shape of the disc. Sharper rims allow for greater speed and greater distance whilst smoother designs offer better control.
Changing the size and weigh of the disc can also offer slight adjustments in speed. However, these factors have more influence on the fade and turn of a disc. For example, Lighter discs are affected by the wind more, making turns and fades sharper.
Surprisingly, the type of plastic used can also change the characteristics of a disc. The main effect of plastic is the changes in durability. A tougher plastic will make the disc more durable, meaning that it is less likely to break or scuff.
These categories and factors provide a wide range of disc types that players can use to optimise their performance. Selecting the right disc for your style is definitely a big part of the sport. Having a good selection of disc types can improve performance and increase enjoyment for competitive players.
My Experiences
I first played Disc Golf around 2 years ago at my local course. I am lucky enough to live near Quarry Park, one of the best courses in the UK. My first round took me by surprise.
Being an experienced Ultimate Frisbee player, I assumed that I would know how to play at a decent level. Although I would say my performance was better than the average beginner, a few poor throws made me realise the transition to Disc Golf would be a lot harder than expected.
I have played sporadically ever since. This has mainly been due to being at university for the past few years. However, I do intend to go more often after finishing my studies. Disc Golf is a great sport because it is both enjoyable and relaxing. Other sports I play are very intense so having an activity that is more relaxing but still active is a nice option to have.
Disc Golf is also a great recreational activity for me because it allows me to do something that feels familiar but still provides a fresher experience. It is great to play with my friends that play Ultimate Frisbee as it gives us another reason to be competitive. However, it is also something I can enjoy with friends that don’t play Ultimate Frisbee due to the sport’s low intensity and easy to follow rules.
I am glad that I have been introduced to this sport and look forward to playing more regularly in the future.
Should You Try It Out?
Everyone should try out Disc Golf.
The sport has the potential to become a popular recreational activity like Bowling or Mini Golf. The low entry level and relaxed nature makes Disc Golf suitable for all ages.
On the other hand, it also possesses large levels of progression, meaning that players can become as competitive as they would like.
It is important to note that Disc Golf may not be to everyone’s taste, like any sport, but it is very accessible, meaning that giving it a go should be on your to do list.
How To Get Involved
If you are in the UK, be sure to check this link to see where your nearest course is. https://discgolfuk.uk/where-to-play/
A lot of courses will allow you to hire discs, but some will require you to bring your own disc. This is not too much of a problem as most putters are less than £10. If you would like to buy a disc in the UK, check out this website: https://www.acediscgolf.co.uk/
If you are not in the UK, you can check where your local course is by typing ‘Disc Golf course near me’ into google.
For more details such as events and membership, click on these links below:
Links
Websites
Videos
A special shout-out to Lucy and Ryan for letting shoot some footage of our round for this blog.
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