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National Disc Golf Day
August 3
National Disc Golf Day, celebrated annually on the first Saturday in August, is a special day dedicated to the sport of disc golf. This day brings together enthusiasts from around the globe to honour and promote this growing sport, which combines elements of traditional golf with the fun and challenge of flying discs. In 2024, National Disc Golf Day falls on August 3rd.
History
The origins of disc golf can be traced back to various informal games played with flying discs over the decades. However, it was “Steady” Ed Headrick who significantly shaped the modern sport by patenting the Disc Golf Pole Hole in 1975 and founding the Disc Golf Association (DGA). He also established the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), which now has nearly 31,000 active members and hosts thousands of events annually.
The concept of National Disc Golf Day was proposed by Jason Wilder, the Minnesota PDGA State Coordinator, and Sara Nicholson, co-founder of Throw Pink. After consulting with disc golf legends, they chose August to commemorate two significant events: the launch of the American Flying Disc Open and the patenting of the first disc golf course by Ed Headrick. The day was officially recognized in 2016 and has since grown in popularity.
Celebrations and Activities
National Disc Golf Day is celebrated in various ways:
- Playing Disc Golf: Enthusiasts hit the courses to play, often organizing local tournaments or friendly games.
- Teaching Newcomers: Experienced players introduce the sport to beginners, helping to grow the community.
- Social Media Engagement: Players share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #NationalDiscGolfDay, creating a sense of global camaraderie.
- Special Events: Many disc golf clubs and courses host events, clinics, and competitions to mark the day.
Significance
National Disc Golf Day not only celebrates the sport but also highlights its benefits, such as promoting physical activity, spending time outdoors, and fostering community spirit. The day also serves as a platform to raise awareness about disc golf, encouraging more people to try the sport and join the growing global community.