Disc Golf

What is disc golf?

Disc golf is played much like golf. Instead of a ball and clubs, though, players use a flying disc or 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 to play in public parks, although pay-to-play courses are trending upward; you probably won’t need to rent a cart, but converted golf course layouts are also on the rise; and your “tee time” will usually come during tournament competition, not casual play. (Source: A Guide to Disc Golf from the PDGA)

Learn more about disc golf from the PDGA

Object of the game

To play each hole in the fewest throws (strokes) possible. The player with the lowest total strokes for the course wins.

Guidelines for play

Each hole begins at the tee.
Subsequent throws are made from the place where the disc comes to rest.
The player who is furthest from the target throws first.
The hole is completed when the disc is supported by the target’s basket or chains.
Tee off order is determined by players’ scores on the previous hole. Lowest score tees first.

Courtesy and etiquette

Remain quiet and avoid unnecessary movements when others are throwing.
Stand behind the player who is throwing until throw is complete.
Remove disc from target after completing hole.
Allow faster groups to play through if possible.
Respect the course – put waste in proper receptacles and do not alter trees or obstacles.
Vandalizing targets, signs, park equipment and landscaping will not be tolerated.

Basic rules

A player must have a supporting point behind his lie and in line with the target when disc is released.
A run up and follow through are allowed unless the lie is within 10 meters of the target.
Any shot within 10 meters of the target requires that player not move past his lie until the disc is at rest.
Casual relief should be taken from an unsafe lie.

Safety first

Golf discs can cause serious injury.
Never throw when players or park users are within range.
Always give park users the right of way.
Be aware of your surroundings and environment.