Often when introducing the concept of disc golf to a newcomer, they have trouble absorbing the concept of what exactly a “disc” is. A disc is like a Frisbee®, but the game isn’t called “frisbee golf” because “Frisbee” is a registered trademark just like   “Q-Tips®” is in the marketplace of hygeine products. An interesting fact: The company which produces Frisbee® toys makes very few golf discs!

Disc Golf is played much like traditional ball golf, and many of the same rules apply. However, instead of a ball and clubs, players use flying discs made from special plastic. Disc golfers employ a wide range of discs with varying flight characteristics to suit their needs, much like how a ball golfer uses a set of clubs with different shapes. The “hole” is not a hole in the ground, but a metal basket with chains which “catches” the disc.

For each hole, play begins with a tee-off drive, a long throw from a designated tee position. Tee characteristics can vary between dirt, gravel, rubber and cement pads. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make their consecutive throws from the spot where the previous throw landed. This continues until the disc is thrown into the basket. There are obstacles, such as trees, bushes, and waterways, which provide a challenge for the players.

Disc golf courses can be 9, 18, 27, or 36 holes in length. Occasionally you may find a 6-hole course or a 24-hole course. Almost all are free – no green fees, no caddies to tip, no clubs to rent. Some courses on private land and some extra-special courses do charge a nominal fee, but playing there is more than worth a couple of bucks. Tournaments are usually the only disc golf related activities that cost money.

Disc golf is a sport enjoyed by people of all age groups, from children to seniors. Since it is generally free to play (minus the cost for the discs you use), people from every economic status can enjoy disc golf.

Anyone can play – everyone should!