New Way to Play Golf
New Way to Play Golf
Growing Sport of “Disc Golf” Offers Fun Challenge for Golfers of All Ages and Abilities
Photos / HoliMont
One of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., disc golf, also known as “frisbee golf,” is a family-friendly, low-cost sport that is becoming increasingly accessible, especially in western New York. According to app UDisc’s 2023 Disc Golf Growth Report, 4.3 disc golf courses were installed per day in 2022 and in the U.S. alone, 254 million people can play the sport within 6.2 miles of where they live. Twin Tiers Disc Golf Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to growing the sport of disc golf in the region, can connect players with a local league and tournament opportunities. For those who live in the Ellicottville area, HoliMont is a great place to enjoy this fast-growing sport, whether one is an experienced disc golfer or brand new!
According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, the sport is a great workout and affordable – the only equipment needed is a disc! While the number of disc golf courses is growing, technically one only needs an uncrowded open space and a few agreed upon targets (“holes”) to enjoy the game. Similar to golf, disc golf begins with a tee area and ends at a target, but instead of a hole, players aim for an elevated metal basket. As players move down the fairway, they must make each consecutive throw from the same place where their previous throw landed. In a group, the farthest away player always throws first, and all are subjected to the challenges of the landscape, such as trees, shrubs, and changes in terrain.
A great upper and lower body workout, disc golf can be played by individuals of all ages and fitness levels, and approximately 90% of disc golf courses are free to play. The mission of Twin Tiers Disc Golf is to grow the sport by supporting those learning to play through offering community disc golf clinics, donating discs to new players, and facilitating leagues throughout the year at disc golf courses in the area, such as Gargoyle Park in Olean. Those who are interested in learning the sport or getting connected with a league can contact Twin Tiers Disc Golf through their website at www.twintiersdiscgolf.org.
This will be the second year that HoliMont offers disc golf and Dan O’Connor, risk manager, is looking forward to another great season. Last year, HoliMont began with a nine-hole course and is currently considering options for expanding, possibly as early as this season, to offer an eighteen-hole course. “There is a lot that goes into the planning of a disc golf course, such as course layout, basket types, launch pad designs, discs, maps, scorecards, pricing, etc.,” O’Connor noted. “Planning and creating the course last year was a HoliMont team effort and was made possible thanks to the coordinated effort and support from many of our staff.”
HoliMont’s natural beauty makes it the perfect place to enjoy disc golf, though O’Connor noted that a great course does not happen by accident. “While HoliMont’s variety of beautiful hills, wetlands, and woods makes it an ideal disc golf playground, we have to consider making it both challenging and fun, while avoiding existing or future trail systems,” he explained. “Parts of last year’s course were narrow with steep terrain making it easy to lose a disc and less ‘beginner friendly.’ We are currently designing a new course for this year that will accommodate both beginner and experienced players.”
O’Connor has enjoyed disc golf for several years, having first been introduced to it in high school, when he played with his brothers, and continuing in college. “I personally enjoy the exercise, being outdoors, and challenging my friends,” he said. “We invite everyone to play disc golf, whether you are brand new or experienced!” O’Connor encourages beginners to come during operating hours as staff members will be able to help them get started and answer any questions. Disc golf rentals, scorecards, and chairlift access are all included with membership; however, anyone can play and get what they need at the ticket booth during operating hours. All are welcome to come after hours with their own discs. O’Connor also recommends a good pair of hiking shoes.
O’Connor is looking forward to an expanded and improved course this year. “Our goal is to eventually develop leagues and host tournaments,” he added. “While we are still in the planning stages for this year’s course, you can expect better launch pads, beginner-friendly terrain, and possibly more baskets.” For more information, call HoliMont at 716-699-2320.
