Disc Golf

Parc St. Vital Park Disc Golf Course is open for use.

What is disc golf?

Disc golf is played much like golf. Instead of a ball and clubs, players use a flying disc or Frisbee®. The sport was formalized in the 1970s and, like golf, the object of the game is completing each hole in the fewest strokes (or, in the case of disc golf, fewest throws).

A golf disc is thrown from a tee area to a target, which is the “hole.” The hole can be one of a number of disc golf targets, though the most common is an elevated metal basket. As players progress down the fairway, they must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw landed. The trees, shrubs and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the golfer. Finally, the “putt” lands in the basket to complete the hole.

Disc golf shares the same joys and frustrations of golf, whether it’s sinking a long putt or hitting a tree halfway down the fairway. There are a few differences:

  • Disc golf is often free to play in public parks (although pay-to-play courses exist)
  • You probably won’t need to rent a cart, but converted golf course layouts are also on the rise; and
  • “Tee times” might exist in tournament competition, but not casual play.

Source: A Guide to Disc Golf from the PDGA

Learn more from the PDGA

Object of the game

To play each hole in the fewest throws (strokes) possible. The player with the lowest total strokes for the course wins.

Guidelines for play 

  • Each hole begins at the tee.
  • Subsequent throws are made from the place where the disc comes to rest.
  • The player who is furthest from the target throws first.
  • The hole is completed when the disc is supported by the target’s basket or chains.
  • Tee off order is determined by players’ scores on the previous hole. Lowest score tees first.

Courtesy and etiquette

  • Remain quiet and avoid unnecessary movements when others are throwing.
  • Stand behind the player who is throwing until throw is complete.
  • Remove disc from target after completing hole.
  • Allow faster groups to play through if possible.
  • Respect the course – put waste in proper receptacles and do not alter trees or obstacles.
  • Vandalizing targets, signs, park equipment and landscaping will not be tolerated.

Basic rules

  • A player must have a supporting point behind their lie and in line with the target when disc is released.
  • A run up and follow through are allowed unless the lie is within 10 meters of the target.
  • Any shot within 10 meters of the target requires that player not move past their lie until the disc is at rest.
  • Casual relief should be taken from an unsafe lie.

Safety first

  • Golf discs can cause serious injury.
  • Never throw when players or park users are within range.
  • Always give park users the right of way.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and environment.