Disc Golf flies into the U.P.

Disc golf enthusiasts and residents looking to get outside and try something new will have more opportunities to do so thanks to the ever–expanding efforts of the U.P. Disc Golf Association.

Tonight we tee up a first look at the newest addition to disc golfing world that’s helping make the up and coming sport a local sensation.

Last summer, the U.P. Disc Golf Association revitalized the Marquette frolfing scene with a brand new 18-hole course nestled on the banks of the Dead River. This year, the UPDGA took their vision a step further, adding a second nine to the Silver Creek course in Chocolay Township. Even though the group is still polishing off the finishing touches, the refurbished 18-hole layout  is already open and ready for hucking.

“Right now, we’re at about 75% complete. We’re still looking for sponsors to help offset the costs to finish some of the tee pads and add some additional amenities,” said UPDGA President Tim Kopacz.

With the new addition, they’ve turned Marquette’s vast wilderness into 36 premiere world class disc golf holes, which are a lot of fun and free of charge.

“Our ultimate plan is to build six to eight disc golf courses in Marquette County and create a disc golf destination here in Marquette,” added Kopacz. “Long term, we want to make a bid to host the PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) World Championships. That brings 800 players on one week for an amateur competition, and 800 players on a second week for a professional competition, and you need six to eight courses within a 20-   mile radius to do that.”

The UPDGA applied for and was awarded a $3,000 grant from the Marquette County Community Foundation, which is allowing the design team to add some improvements to the Powder Mill course as well.

“What we’re going to do is finish off development of that course by completing the tee pads,” Kopacz said. “Right now, they’re just crushed stone. They offer a good solid base, but they’re starting to wear out. What we need to do, our ultimate plan, is to top them with a rubber mat.”

“This is something that you don’t need a lot of money to do,” said Marquette County Community Foundation Chief Operating Officer Gail Anthony. “You can just go out, bring your frisbees to the disc golf course. It’s something everybody can do, so it’s really attractive to the grant committee because of its impact to the community.”

In addition to grants and sponsorships, on–site donations and volunteers have helped keep discs flying at both courses.

For information on how to get involved, you can check out their page at www.facebook.com/DISCdaUP