The Basics of Disc Golf: A Comprehensive Guide

From casual park games to competitive sports leagues and tournaments, disc golf has been soaring in popularity. But, what exactly is disc golf, and how did it come to be?

A Brief History of Disc Golf

The origin of disc golf dates back to the early 20th century, but it wasn't until the 1970s that the game flourished into the sport we know today. Steeped in history, disc golf began as a fun pastime, invented by individuals who sought to combine the strategic elements of golf with the agility and precision of Frisbee. Over time, the sport has evolved and grown, with structured rules, professional associations, and even its own dedicated disc golf courses springing up around the world.

How to Play Disc Golf: A Step by Step Guide

The objective of disc golf is quite similar to traditional golf. However, instead of hitting a ball into a hole, players throw a disc into a basket (ideally, but I like to throw into trees apparently). Here is a simplified step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Choose Your Disc: Disc golf discs come in different models, much like golf clubs, and each is designed for specific tasks—drivers for long-range throws, fairway drivers for control shots with distance, mid-range discs for accuracy, and putters for getting the disc into the basket.
2. The Tee Throw: Each hole begins with a tee shot. Stand within the designated tee area (usually a turf or concrete box) and aim to throw your disc as close as you can towards the basket.
3. The Approach: If your disc did not land in the basket from your tee throw (which would be awesome if it does), you would need to continue making throws until it does. This is known as the "fairway throw." Unless you are off the fairway, then your next shot is known as a scramble.
4. The Putt: When your disc is within 10 meters of the basket, it's time to putt. Remember, once you start the putting motion, you cannot move past the point of your previous throw until the disc has been released.
5. Understanding Par: Each hole in disc golf has a "par," the number of throws an experienced player is expected to make to get the disc in the basket. Your goal is to meet or, better still, beat the par.
6. Rules and Etiquette: Finally, like any sport, disc golf comes with its own set of rules and etiquette found here from the PDGA (professional disc golf association). Be respectful of other players, don't damage the course, and most importantly, have fun!

Now that you understand the basics of disc golf, it's time to get out there and play. UDisc has a great way to find courses here. Whether you're looking for a fun way to get active, a relaxing pastime, or a competitive sport, disc golf might just be the perfect game for you. Happy disc golfing!