Michael Wildner

Disc Golf Michigan

Disc ("Frisbee") Golf is a fairly new sport; it had its roots in the late 70's but is now growing in popularity - it has a worldwide organization (the Professional Disc Golf Association, or PDGA), and has been featured in some recent video game releases. It is a very economical sport to play, it provides a great low-impact exercise, and Michigan has some of the best terrain in the world for disc golf courses. I've seen many things promoting Michigan golf courses as a boost to tourism; we should do something to help promote Michigan as a prime disc golf destination. This can be done by encouraging the construction of more disc golf courses, in both public parks and as privately owned businesses. Michigan currently ranks 7th in the nation in the number of disc golf courses - we should be #1! Even one of the major disc golf equipment manufacturers, Discraft Inc., is located in Michigan. Disc Golf has recently been installed in a couple of Michigan State Parks (Newaygo and Sleepy Hollow), and the parks directors love how it has increased the usage of their parks. Remember that disc golfers visiting Michigan also need places to eat, sleep, and find other entertainment - so disc golf is also good for tourism! Installing an 18-hole disc golf course is very affordable compared to other park facilities (one fifth the cost of a tennis court). Most parks boards like the idea, but lack the funds. There should be some sort of incentive/grant program to help develop more disc golf destinations in Michigan.