Arkansans don’t get to see a lot of professional sporting events roll through the state, but if you’re into hurling plastic discs at metal baskets, this weekend offers up a chance.
The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) and the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT) are hosting the Jonesboro Open today through Sunday at the Disc Side of Heaven course. It’s too late to register to compete, but Saturday and Sunday are packed with family-friendly events and activities. There will be concessions on offer (cash only). Guests are free to bring their own food and drinks.
For those not familiar with the sport, the goal of disc golf is identical to that of “ball golf:” get to the objective in as few of strokes as possible. The objective in this case, though, isn’t a hole in the ground, it’s a steel basket surrounded by chains. Players start at a tee box using a heavy, flat disc called – you guessed it – a driver, followed by a few more shots using lighter, taller discs for mid-range and putting tosses. It’s a low-impact, easy-to-learn but hard-to-master sport.
The Jonesboro Open began Friday morning and will run through Sunday. Fans will be able to walk the course while watching the pros work their magic.
For the parents with kids, don’t miss the Festival of the Flying Discs on Saturday night. There will be a speed range where players can test their throwing strength, “disc tic-tac-toe” and a variety of putting challenges.
Be sure to check out the tournament’s website which has an events schedule and more information about the tournament, including this blurb from the tourney’s creators:
The Jonesboro Open is a group effort by way too many people to name here, but we have a long ways to go! We want you to come be a part of it as a player, as a volunteer or as a spectator. The 2017 Jonesboro Open was a huge success and 2018 is going to be bigger and better. Come play! Come watch!