Disc golf: The fastest-growing game you never heard of?

Looking for a low-cost, readily available sport that can be played individually or with hundreds, young and old, abled and disabled?

Then look no further than disc golf. The game has come a long way from its humble origins in 1960s California when Wham-O Frisbees were used to target any readily available goal from fire hydrants to trash cans.

Modern-day disc golf consists of similar elements to its counterpart, “ball” golf (as many disc golfers call it): Complete each hole with the minimal number of throws to reach the target.

The game has three elements: concrete tee pad, chain-link “basket” goal, and, of course, the disc.

These are not your everyday Frisbees. Shaped for control and accuracy, the evolution of these flying discs is both astounding and scientific, with hundreds of styles ranging from drivers, mid-range to putters, all carrying different weights and edges.

According to the Professional Disc Golf Association, Arizona boasts more than 40 disc golf courses. 

The city has two courses in the communities of Maricopa Meadows and Tortosa — the former a beautiful 18-hole landscaped course complete with water features, the latter, a nine-hole challenging desert course. 

When asked about the best part of disc golf, Rene Garrido — avid player and co-founder of Maricopa Meadows Disc Golf Club – said, “No one is left out. Everyone, old or young, girl or boy, in shape or out of shape, can play in the beautiful settings.”