Flying discs spotted locally

By: Alexia Lang

Posted: 6/1/09

The summer months are once again beckoning sportsmen outdoors to send their discs flying toward shining metal goals - disc golf goals, that is.

Disc golf is spreading like wildfire and steadily making its way into mainstream sports.

At many parks across the metro area, and the country for that matter, little pies in the sky (a.k.a. discs) can be seen speeding through the air all while children play on swings and groups play a game of baseball or soccer.

Players of the sport are a medley of serious competitors and those who play just for the fun of it.

No matter your level of disc fever, options are available.

The nine parks in the Kansas City area are free and open to the public for those who would like to test out the sport. Other options include league play, tournaments and championship games.

There are nine local leagues which play at different locations, giving golfers the option to play with at least one league on any day of the week.

Leagues cost $5 per game plus an optional $1 for an ace pool. Members of the Kansas City Flying Disc Club (KCFDC) play for $4.

The amateur division receives coupons for new merchandise and the pro division receives cash for winning scores.

Members of the KCFDC also receive a discount on tournament entry fees.

Various tournaments are held throughout the summer giving golfers a chance to test their skills.

Most tournaments come with perks like a free t-shirt, a new disc and lunch, all covered by the entry fee.

Disc golf has become such a big deal around these parts that the 2009 Pro, Amateur and Junior World Championship will be held right here in Kansas City at the end of July.

For information about joining KCFDC, to find a league or tournament or to connect with other disc-golfers, visit www.kcfdc.org.

The KCFDC Web site also lists the locations and specific details about local courses.

Happy flying.

alang@unews.com