Disc golf has roots stretching back to the early 1900s, but the modern version of the game began taking shape in the 1960s. It started informally with kids and adults tossing pie tins or lids at targets like trees, trash cans, or fire hydrants. The idea was simple—throw an object toward a target in as few throws as possible. In 1974, the first official disc golf course was established in Oak Grove Park, Pasadena, California. This helped set the foundation for disc golf as an organized sport.
Growth and Popularity
“Steady” Ed Headrick with one of the first official disc golf baskets. Source: Back Then History
Since the 1970s, disc golf has grown from a casual hobby into a globally recognized sport. Thanks to innovators like "Steady" Ed Headrick, who designed the first official disc golf basket and helped form the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), the game gained structure and popularity. Today, there are thousands of courses worldwide, professional tournaments, and even international competitions. With the rise of social media and YouTube coverage, the sport has continued to gain a passionate and growing fan base.
Fun and Surprising Facts
A vintage game of disc golf in action. Source: True North Disc Golf
Disc golf isn't just fun—it's full of surprises! The longest recorded ace (hole-in-one) is over 600 feet long. The PDGA now boasts over 200,000 registered members, and courses can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Unlike traditional golf, most disc golf courses are free to play, making it one of the most accessible sports out there. Plus, there are specialized discs for different kinds of throws—drivers, mid-ranges, and putters—each with unique shapes and flight paths.e?
