DISC DRIVE
Disc golf is steadily on the rise in Lake Havasu City. With perfect temperatures, beautiful landscapes and a recreation rich community… no wonder why this sport is appealing.
We catch up with Graham Russell, card carrying member of the PDGA. Yes folks, you read it right, the Pro Disc Golf Association. Graham is helpful in explaining the growing culture surrounding the sport and how after one toss of a disc, you yourself could be hooked! Many already decide to shop at places similar to MVP Disc Sports because of how fun the game is!
HLM: What exactly IS Disc Golf, and where did it originate?
GR: Disc Golf is a game where the goal is to get your flying disc from the tee to the basket in as few throws as possible. It is played much like golf, only with a disc instead of a club and ball. Disc Golf has been around in some form since the 50s and 60s. But it really got organized in the mid-1970s, when “Steady” Ed Headrick invented the modern basket and installed the first permanent Disc Golf courses in Pasadena and Huntington Beach in Southern California.
HLM: Is it an actual Frisbee or a different type of disc?
GR: The discs we use are slightly different from a normal catch Frisbee. They come in the same variety as clubs in Golf. There are putters, mid-range drivers and distance drivers. They have thinner profiles than a Frisbee and have the ability to fly much further than traditional Frisbees. Discs are available for purchase at Hastings, Big 5 and at many online retailers.
HLM: Is iteasy to learn?
GR: Disc Golf has a very quick learning curve for the beginning player. The rules are simple, and the technique starts with the simple action of throwing a disc. It is easily accessible to all ages; our local Disc Golf course is well suited for any skill level. Disc Golf is also a very affordable family activity. Rounds are free to play, and discs cost $8-$20 each.
HLM: Does Havasu have a course? If so, where is it located?
GR: Lake Havasu City has a course at Grand Island Park, which is located on the island. The park is off of Malibu Lane, just 2-3 blocks past the entrance to The Nautical. For more Disc Golf in the surrounding area, you only need to go as far as Kingman or Bullhead City. They host two courses a piece. There are plans for more courses in Lake Havasu’s future. With the cost of new courses being low and Disc Golf’s ability to re-purpose unused/little used property into a positive city amenity, the local Disc Golf community is optimistic about future local courses being available.
HLM: How does one get involved? Is this sport independently recreational, or is there a club you have to join?
GR: We have a diverse community of local Disc Golfers. We have many casual players and a handful of competitive players as well. I’m a member of the PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) and travel playing the Pro division in tournaments around the state.
HLM: Best time to play?
GR: This time of the year is a fantastic time to head out to Grand Island Disc Golf Course! The weather outside is beautiful. What’s better than spending the day outside playing a fun, affordable game of Disc Golf?