Disc golf is a sport played much like traditional golf. Instead of balls and clubs, though, players use a flying disc also called Frisbee. The sport was formalized in the 1970s and shares with golf the object of completing each hole in the fewest strokes (or, in the case of disc golf, fewest throws). A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the “hole.” The hole can be one of a number of disc golf targets; the most common is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw landed. The trees, shrubs, and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the golfer. Finally, the “putt” lands in the basket and the hole is completed. Disc golf shares the same joys and frustrations of golf, whether it’s sinking a long putt or hitting a tree halfway down the fairway.
There are a few differences, though. Disc golf is often free of charge to play and is designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages, men and women, regardless of their economic status.
Who can play?
Disc golf can be played from school age to old age, making it one of the most affordable movement sports of a lifetime. It can also be played by mentally or phycisically disabled people, which gives them the opportunity to participate in normal activities. Because disc golf is so easy to learn, no one is excluded. Players only adjust their pace to their abilities and continue from where they procure. Disc golf tournaments in the Czech Republic are designed for men and women of all skill levels from beginners to professionals.
Where do we play?
Permanent disc golf courses are located all over the world and more than 100 of them are in the Czech Republic. Most of them are located in city parks and around cities or villages. Disc golf courses can coexist with existing park facilities. The ideal location combines wooded and open terrain with a number of topographical changes. Clubs are often set up around the courses, which organize common trainings or various tournaments and competitions.
Why start playing disc golf?
In an effort to improve health and quality of life, more and more people are looking for various recreational activities. Disc golf improves the condition of the upper and lower body and supports a combination of physical and mental abilities with very little risk of physical injury. Players with lower fitness levels can begin to improve slowly and gradually as they increase. You can play at any time; one round lasts one to two hours and you can play alone or with friends. Disc golf offers yearlong physical activity, even in rain or snow. Perhaps the greatest attribute of this sport is low costs. The disc costs less than CZK 500 and only one is needed to get started.
And, of course, there’s the complete fun of the game – no matter what your age or skill level is!