A love letter to Disc Golf
Dear Disc Golf,
As I enter my sixth year in this lovely sport, I wanted to look back at all the amazing things you have done for me. This letter may resonate with many people, as the positive impact you have made on my life is the same impact you have made on countless lives since your inception all those decades ago. You take a second to learn and a lifetime to master, and that is what keeps me coming back again and again. You’re impossible to perfect, and every round I play brings its own unique challenges and triumphs. You’re a game that challenges the mind, the body, and the soul. From beginner to professional, you bring joy and pain and redemption and so much more every time we step onto a course.
You are a sport that brings people together. No matter the demographic, financial status, or occupation, I have met players from all walks of life. I truly enjoy a random foursome; it allows me an opportunity to meet new people, commiserate with them over 18 holes, and hopefully walk away with three new friends. I refuse to have a bad time when I play, and I think that infects the people I play with, and I hope they learn what I’ve always known: a bad day of disc golf is better than a good day doing just about anything else. There is so much divisiveness in the world, but it seems we can shed those things that divide us and play a game that unites us.
Disc Golf, because of you I have traveled far and wide in the pursuit of newer, bigger, better, and more challenging courses. Places that most people wouldn’t even find on a map have become ‘must visit’ venues all because of a well-designed and maintained track. Emporia, Peoria, Little Rock, Lafayette, Crown Point, and so many more places that I would have never thought to visit have become great memories and experiences all because of you. Now my wife and I take every opportunity we can to get out there and explore these small towns and deeply rich historical cities and towns all in the pursuit of another adventure. Thank you for being in just about every town we’ve ever been to. You are the most famous and fastest growing unknown sport in America.
Because of you, I also find myself as a more productive member of my own local scene. Disc golf has given me the chance to get involved in local volunteer groups, disc golf clubs, and tournament directors. I get to work with others to maintain and improve our local courses. I get to volunteer for local tournaments and experience disc golf from a whole new perspective. And most recently, you have given me a chance to work with my wife to host our first event later this month. Disc golf has enriched our lives in so many ways, that I realize that you are so much more than just throwing discs, you are a lifestyle, and I am grateful that you came into my life. Thank you, Disc Golf, it seems that you are still in your adolescence, and I am excited to see what the coming years brings for you. As you grow, remember what makes you so special, and you will continue to affect the lives of generations to come.
