Disc Golf

With the weather still holding out, it was time to hit the 'links' again. Although this time I speak of a different form of 'links'. Yesterday we played golf, disc golf.

West Side Community Disc Golf Course
This disc golf course in St. Charles happens to be 6.4 acres and is filled with luscious full grown trees and scenic 'hills and valleys'.

Example of the typical foilage within the park.

My only advice for those who decide to play is to stay within a few feet (if possible, errant tee shots may send you deep in to the woods) of  the hole or beaten paths. Plants of all varieties grow within the forest, and this does include poison ivy. I can attest to poison ivy's power- if you haven't had it yet, keep it that way.

Disc Golf

For those of you who haven't experienced the world of Disc Golf- Here's a rundown of what to expect.

Rather than clubs, a heavy gram specialized 'disc' is used (a frisbee).

image by metromix.com

The rules are similar to that of golf. You want the least amount of strokes/putts per hole. Rather than putting a disc in a hole, you have a chainlink basket.

Image by theolivamyers.com

Locations

These disc golf courses can be found nearly anywhere, but are most prevalent or typically found in a forest preserve. 

Hazards

With these courses being in a forest preserve open to the public you can expect to find bikers, hikers, joggers, etc using the property as well. As always, be respectful of the  other crowds and pick up your trash when on the course. Nothing is worse than a forest preserve filled with garbage.

Cost

The majority of disc courses I have been to were free. According to wikipedia around 87% of the 3,000+ courses are in fact free. Yes, you heard correctly. Free. How often can you find a sport to play where the cost to use the facility is free?

Popularity

Disc golf grew rapidly, and with its growth the Professional Disc Golf Association was created. Also, many forest areas or empty lots are being used to fuel the fire for this continually growing sport. 

 image by playemalltour.com

If you're looking to enjoy the weather, and spend as little of your hard earned cash as possible you've just found a new avenue to pursue. Also, disc golf isn't too physically straining so make sure to bring the whole family to enjoy the game.